Discovering the Best of Barcelona in 8 Days

  • Day 1: Gothic Quarter
    20 minutes (13km) from Barcelona El Prat Airport

    Start your trip by exploring the iconic Gothic Quarter, the historic heart of Barcelona that features an impressive range of medieval architecture. Don't miss some of the most notable landmarks, such as the Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça del Rei, and the narrow alleys with various boutiques and cafes for a quick break.

  • Day 2: La Sagrada Familia
    10 minutes (3.1km) from the Gothic Quarter

    Begin your day at one of the most prominent landmarks of Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia. Antoni Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece that took over 100 years to build is an architectural wonder, and it's a must-visit attraction in the city. Admire the striking details and learn about the history and symbolism behind the iconic basilica.

  • Day 3: Park Guell
    20 minutes (4.4km) from La Sagrada Familia

    Spend your day at the whimsical Park Guell, another of Gaudi's masterpieces located on the hill of El Carmel. Marvel at the colourful mosaics, sculptures, and architectural details while taking in the breathtaking views of the city. Make sure to book a ticket in advance to avoid the crowds.

  • Day 4: Montserrat Monastery
    1 hour (42km) by train from the city centre

    Take a break from the city and visit the Montserrat Monastery, located atop a spectacular mountain range. Admire the stunning views, visit the Basilica, see the statue of the Black Madonna, and attend a performance by the world-renowned Boys' Choir if it's available on that day.

  • Day 5: La Boqueria Market & Las Ramblas
    20 minutes (1km) from the Gothic Quarter

    Get your senses ready for a vibrant, colourful day as you walk through the bustling streets of Las Ramblas and visit the famous La Boqueria Market. Taste some of the most delicious Catalan food and drinks, such as Jamón Ibérico, Crema Catalana, and Cava. Bargain at the souvenir shops and enjoy the lively street performers.

  • Day 6: Casa Batlló & Casa Milà
    10 minutes (1.4km) from the Gothic Quarter

    Explore two of Gaudi's most unique residential buildings in Barcelona, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà. Admire the art nouveau and modernist architecture, colourful shapes, and incredible facades that make these landmarks a true wonder. You can book tickets online for both sites to skip the queues.

  • Day 7: Barceloneta Beach
    20 minutes (5km) from the Gothic Quarter

    Spend the day soaking up some sun and relaxing by the beach at Barceloneta Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Barcelona. Take a dip in the warm Mediterranean waters, walk along the boardwalk, and indulge in some delicious seafood at the local restaurants.

  • Day 8: Casa Vicens
    15 minutes (3km) from the Gothic Quarter

    End your trip by visiting Casa Vicens, one of Gaudi's earliest works and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the colourful tiles, unique architectural features, and impressive gardens. This stunning house was recently opened to the public, and it is a must-visit attraction for any fan of Gaudi's work.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Gothic Quarter (2-3 hours, free)
  • La Sagrada Familia (1-2 hours, €20-26)
  • Park Guell (2-3 hours, €10-15)
  • Montserrat Monastery (4-6 hours, €20-28)
  • La Boqueria Market & Las Ramblas (2-4 hours, free)
  • Casa Batlló & Casa Milà (2-3 hours, €25)
  • Barceloneta Beach (4-6 hours, free)
  • Casa Vicens (1-2 hours, €16)

  • Total Estimated Costs: €91-120

Transportation

Barcelona has an excellent public transportation system consisting of buses, trams, metros, and trains that connect the city centre to the surrounding areas. A single ticket costs €2.40, but it's recommended to buy the T-Casual card for 10 trips at €11.35, or the Hola Barcelona card that includes unlimited travel for 2-5 days starting at €15. Also, you can hire a taxi or rent a bike for short distances or day trips, but they might be more expensive.

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting some other iconic landmarks, such as the Picasso Museum, the National Art Museum of Catalonia, or the Tibidabo Amusement Park. For a unique experience, book a Flamenco show, go to a winery tour, or watch a football match at Camp Nou. If you have less time, prioritize the landmarks that interest you the most and adjust their schedule accordingly.

Airports

Barcelona is served by Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN), located 13km southwest of the city centre. It has two terminals and it's well-connected to the city centre by public transportation, including the Aerobús that runs 24/7, and the RENFE train that connects to the city's main train stations. The airport offers numerous facilities, such as currency exchange offices, luggage storage, and duty-free shops.

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