Gothic Quarter is the atmospheric oldest part of Barcelona, featuring narrow, winding streets, historic architecture, shops, and cafes. Highlights are the Gothic Cathedral and the Picasso Museum. Later, head to the Park Guell, a world-renowned public park built in the early 1900s, with whimsical sculptures, gardens, and architecture by Antoni Gaudi.
After breakfast, walk down La Rambla, a lively pedestrian street filled with street performers, vendors, and local shops. Next, take a cable car or the funicular up to Montjuic Castle, which offers unbeatable panoramic views of the city, and also has a museum with exhibits on Barcelona's history.
Spend the day relaxing at Barceloneta Beach, the most famous and popular sandy beach in the city. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to grab a snack or drink. In the late afternoon, visit the iconic Sagrada Familia, one of the most stunning examples of Gothic architecture in the world, designed by Antoni Gaudi.
Barcelona has an extensive metro and bus network that is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Single tickets cost €2.40, while a 10-ride pass is €10.20. Taxis are readily available but can be more expensive. The city is also very walkable, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to nearby cities like Girona or Tarragona. If you have less time, skip Montjuic Castle or Barceloneta Beach. Try to avoid tourist traps along La Rambla and stick to exploring the side streets for more authentic experiences.
Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) is located 14 km outside the city center and is the busiest airport in Catalonia. It provides excellent connectivity to many international destinations that serve as connecting points. The airport has two terminals and a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities for passengers.