3-Day Barcelona Itinerary for Shoestring Budget Travelers

• Day 1: Start your day with a visit to the Sagrada Familia, a stunning cathedral designed by Antoni Gaudi. Afterwards, wander through the Gothic Quarter and explore the maze of narrow streets filled with history and charm. End your day at La Barceloneta beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean breeze.
• Day 2: Spend your morning at the Park Guell, another one of Gaudi's masterpieces, and take in the panoramic views of the city. For lunch, head to La Boqueria market and indulge in some delicious seafood and tapas. In the afternoon, visit the Picasso Museum, which houses one of the most extensive collections of the artist's works.
• Day 3: Start your day at Parc de la Ciutadella, a lush park with a lake, a zoo and several museums. Next, visit the Casa Batllo, another Gaudi masterpiece, with its colorful facade and unique design. End your trip with a walk along Las Ramblas, Barcelona's most famous pedestrian street filled with street performers, souvenir stalls, and local shops.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sagrada Familia (2 hours, €17)
• Gothic Quarter (2 hours, free)
• La Barceloneta Beach (3 hours, free)
• Park Guell (2 hours, €10)
• La Boqueria market (1-2 hours, €10-€20)
• Picasso Museum (2 hours, €12)
• Parc de la Ciutadella (2-3 hours, free)
• Casa Batllo (2 hours, €25)
• Las Ramblas (1-2 hours, free)
Total Estimated Costs: €91-€102

Transportation

Barcelona has a well-connected public transportation system including metro, bus and tram lines. A single ticket costs €2.40 and a 10-ride ticket costs €10.20. Taxis are also available with an average cost of €20-€30 for a 30-minute ride. Walking and biking are also great options to explore the city while saving money.

Useful tips

For travelers with more time, consider adding a day trip to Montserrat, a stunning mountain range located outside of Barcelona. For those with less time, prioritize the must-see sights such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell. To save money on food, look for local restaurants and avoid tourist traps. Finally, be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas such as Las Ramblas.