On this put up, I’m going to share with you my high issues to do in Barcelona.
Barcelona is a metropolis of contrasts. It’s edgy and uncooked, but inventive and complicated. It’s a spot that’s residence to an entire melting pot of cultures, but stays uniquely its personal.
It’s additionally a metropolis blessed with world-class eating places, unimaginable structure, a thumping nightlife scene, and a beautiful shoreline.
With an awesome public transport system to shuttle you between the various neighbourhoods, and large, pedestrian-friendly streets, getting round Barcelona is a breeze.
Town actually does have a vibe of its personal and there are limitless issues to do in Barcelona to maintain you busy.
Having spent 10 days in Barcelona with Nick, we have been in a position to sufficiently scratch the floor and uncover a number of all this vacation spot has to supply. Surely, that is now one in every of my favorite cities on the earth.
With that, let’s get began with this record of the 15 greatest issues to do in Barcelona.
1. Be part of a Strolling Tour
This is without doubt one of the greatest actions in Barcelona for once you first arrive.
Strolling excursions can be found in just about each main metropolis in Europe, and by becoming a member of one, you’ll be capable to orientate your self instantly, whereas checking off some metropolis highlights alongside the way in which.
You’ll be able to be a part of a free tour with firms like Sandemans, whose guides will take you thru a couple of of the neighbourhoods in Barcelona, and present you most of the metropolis’s must-see sights.
These strolling excursions are “free”, however they function on ideas (€5-10 is enough). Since they’re such a low value, it’s possible you’ll discover that many folks want to be a part of your most well-liked journey too.
A greater possibility is to affix this highly rated walking tour experience, which has a restrict of simply 7 company. Collectively along with your educated and comical information, you’ll go to the Previous City ‘Ciutat Vella’, the Gothic Quarter ‘Barri Gòtic’, and ‘El Born’.
When you’ll definitely see the principle sights, the perfect a part of the strolling tour is that you simply’ll additionally achieve native perception into the town; together with the dos and don’ts, the perfect locations to eat, and extra.
2. Examine Out Antoni Gaudí’s Work
You actually can’t go to Barcelona with out trying out the beautiful work of Antoni Gaudí. You actually couldn’t miss his masterpieces for those who tried.
Sitting in stark distinction subsequent to the extra typical fashionable structure and the attractive, however much less exotic-looking Catalan Gothic buildings, is the works of Twentieth-century genius architect, Antoni Gaudí.
Most of his buildings are primarily based on naturally occurring natural shapes, curves, and bends. Whereas regular buildings have pointed archways, sharp corners, and useful columns, Gaudí’s look like inbuilt celebration of the connection between man and Mom Nature.
Two Gaudí buildings that you may’t miss whereas in Barcelona embrace La Sagrada Familia – a construction nonetheless beneath building greater than 130 years later, and the Barcelona Cathedral – that is my favorite piece within the metropolis.
Different must-sees embrace Parque Guell, Casa BatYo, Casa Mila, and Casa Vee-sens.
An effective way to cowl all of Gaudi’s work in a single go is to join this Introduction to Gaudi experience, which is simply $20. You’ll go to 7 of Gaudi’s masterpieces and study fascinating details about the artist and his structure alongside the way in which.
☞ SEE ALSO: The Price of Dwelling in Spain
3. Stroll The Seashore Boardwalk at La Barceloneta
The Barceloneta seaside space of Barcelona is beautiful. With a large boardwalk generally known as Paseo Marítimo which follows the shoreline for about 4 kilometres, it’s the right place for a protracted stroll by the ocean.
You’ll discover a couple of cool eating places and bars which have tables spilling out onto patios proper on the sand, and there are at all times folks making sandcastles, swimming within the water, (throughout summer time months), and having fun with the sunshine.
We ended up visiting the Barceloneta space after already being within the metropolis for every week, and we couldn’t consider how stunning it was, or that we hadn’t visited sooner!
Relying on which neighbourhood in Barcelona you’re staying in, you’ll be able to go to Barceloneta on foot, by bus, or by taking the metro to Metro cease “Barceloneta”, (Yellow Line, L4).
SEE ALSO: A Information To Barcelona For First-Timers
4. Get Misplaced in El Born
The Barrio of El Born is a labyrinth of slender cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and superbly ornate Church buildings and Basilicas.
On this neighbourhood, you’ll discover cafes and boutique shops by daylight, and cocktail bars and samba by evening. You’ll be able to go to El Born any time of day and it’s at all times enjoyable and thrilling, but it surely takes on an entire completely different vibe at evening.
If in case you have time, attempt to enterprise right here no less than as soon as through the day, and as soon as at evening, when the road lamps mild up the stone buildings, giving them a golden glow.
Contemplating he lived right here from the age of 15, it’s not shocking that you simply’ll additionally discover some inventive works by Pablo Picasso in El Born, notably within the Picasso Museum.
Couple that with some nice wine bars and eating places and you’ve got probably the most eclectic and thrilling barrios within the metropolis. For a quaint and enjoyable wine bar, I like to recommend Bodega del Born, and for glorious cocktails and an expertise in itself, the Paradiso speakeasy.
5. Discover the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is yet one more charming medieval neighbourhood within the metropolis of Barcelona. I’ve now listed three of the town’s coolest neighbourhoods on this article, however the truth is, that is solely a small collection of the barrios that this metropolis has to supply.
The Gothic Quarter is Barcelona’s jewel within the crown of historic barrios. Relationship again greater than 2,000 years, it’s an space filled with slender again streets, towering church buildings, quiet alleyways, nice eating places and bars, and a number of the metropolis’s most fascinating historical past.
Artisans promote leather-based and jewellery close to La Sagrada Familia, whereas flower stalls and street-food distributors line the busy avenue of La Rambla.
An effective way to discover the Gothic Quarter, (Barri Gòtic), is by becoming a member of a Barri Gòtic walking tour. Along with Juliana, you’ll wander by way of the historic middle studying in regards to the historical past, tradition, and darkish secrets and techniques of Barcelona. On the finish of the strolling tour, (in true Catalonian type), you’ll share a glass of sangria collectively.
Benefit from the Gothic Quarter – you’ll be amazed at each nook you flip on this charming maze of slender streets and alleys.
6. Be part of a Paella Cooking Class (One of many Greatest Issues to do in Barcelona!)
We booked this paella cooking class throughout our journey to Barcelona and it was simply top-of-the-line experiences we’ve loved thus far. That is undoubtedly top-of-the-line issues to do in Barcelona for {couples}, mates, and foodies.
Despite the fact that Pallela is initially from Valencia, (additional south within the area), it’s nonetheless a preferred dish all through Catalonia.
Throughout this cooking class, Chef Lucia, (who’s labored in each Gordan Ramsay’s and Jaime Oliver’s kitchens), walks you thru the steps to create one in every of Catalonia’s most well-known dishes; the scrumptious paella.
Whereas cooking in pairs at your station, you’ll be served ice chilly, bubbly cava, (the Catalan type of glowing white wine), relish in chatting with different company, and study skilled cooking strategies from revered cooks.
The cava doesn’t cease flowing and you’ll have as a lot, or as little, as you want.
What’s particularly nice about this expertise is that you simply get to cook dinner the dish from begin to end, versus different cooking courses which have every part ready for you, and also you principally simply watch the meal being accomplished. Not right here! You do all of it, and get to get pleasure from your creation on the finish.
I actually can’t advocate this sufficient. Not solely is it an awesome cooking class, however you get to tick two issues off your record of issues to do in Barcelona; drink cava and eat paella. Book the paella cooking class here.
7. Go Out For Tapas and Pinchos
Just about everybody is aware of about tapas – the well-known Spanish appetizer plates – however have you ever heard of the smaller, bite-sized snacks generally known as pinchos?
Pincho actually interprets to “thorn” or “spike” and refers back to the toothpick that you simply’ll discover holding collectively each pincho you eat.
There are many locations in Barcelona to get each tapas and pinchos, however Poble Sec particularly is the place to be for the abundance of bars that line the road right here.
We joined this tapas/pinchos trip which took us to five completely different pinchos bars the place we sampled almost a dozen completely different small dishes. You’ll find out about tapas tradition and tidbits about Barcelona. Plus, tips on how to correctly pay for pinchos at a bar, (spoiler: you retain your toothpicks and pay per “stick” on the honour system).
I received’t give all of it away by telling you in regards to the tasty tapas we sampled, you’ll need to ebook and uncover for your self. We actually loved the pinchos experience and felt prefer it was a must-do in Barcelona to get the evening began.
8. Wander Round El Raval Barrio
El Raval is a vibrant multi-cultural barrio within the coronary heart of Barcelona. Though this space is taken into account a spot in Barcelona to take warning of, today there’s a number of gentrification happening, and it’s now higher recognized for being an edgy, bohemian space.
Throughout our journey to Barcelona we spent a day exploring El Raval and loved experiencing this different facet of the town. Somewhat than medieval structure and broad, leafy streets, we discovered buildings that regarded a bit rougher across the edges, fascinating road artwork, and beautiful group gardens.
El Raval is definitely residence to a few of Barcelona’s high museums and eating places — don’t miss Cañete Bar, or Dos Palillos.
9. Be Wowed By a Drink at Paradiso Cocktail Bar
Paradiso cocktail bar is an establishment in Barcelona, and for good purpose. That is in all probability the good secret bar we’ve ever been to and that’s no understatement!
To enter the bar, you need to already find out about it as a result of it has a hidden entrance by way of a walk-in freezer door behind a deli, however regardless of their makes an attempt to maintain this place a secret, just about everybody who lives or visits Barcelona shall be drawn right here sooner or later.
The costs on this bar aren’t low-cost, (round 15 euros for a cocktail), however neither is the booze that they use, or the way in which they put together them.
From steaming wood logs topped with crispy deep-fried ants, cachaca and fervour fruit, to dry ice gins and smoked tequila cocktails, this place places a whimsical spin on each drink they serve.
The bartenders at Paradiso are actually pleasant and affected person as you order the drinks, making this a really approachable speakeasy. When you like drink, shaken or stirred, I extremely advocate that you simply add this unimaginable bar in El Born to your Barcelona itinerary.
10. Go Crusing
Crusing is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Barcelona on a sizzling afternoon, or to benefit from the sundown within the night.
Hop aboard this sailboat and cruise up the coast to get pleasure from views of the town’s shoreline. Among the high sights embrace Sagrada Familia, Tibidabo, Montjuic, and Diagonal Mar.
The sailboat can maintain as much as 12 company, however the captain sometimes solely books it for 7 – 8 folks to make sure you’re snug. Carry your bathing go well with if you want and luxuriate in a dip within the sea.
Security tools, native snacks and drinks, (cava, white wine, beer, comfortable drinks, water), are included. Learn more about this Barcelona sailing excursion.
11. Stroll La Rambla and Store at La Boqueria Market
La Rambla is a large, tree-lined pedestrian-only road that stretches for 1.2 kilometres from Plaça de Catalunya within the centre of the town, to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell.
It additionally types the boundary between the Gothic Quarter to the east, and El Raval to the west.
Right here you’ll discover dozens of outlets, in addition to flower stands lining the road. Throughout the excessive season, La Rambla may be packed, but it surely’s nonetheless a cool place to come back for a stroll.
If you’re on the Rambla, preserve a watch out for Mercado de la Boqueria. Boqueria actually interprets to “place the place goat is offered” in Catalan, however there’s way more right here than simply goat meat.
That is one in every of Barcelona’s greatest markets, promoting every part from meats and cheeses, to wines, fruits, handicrafts, and pastries. It was truly voted the perfect meals market on the earth by CNN.
The market is open on Monday to Saturday, from 8:00am to eight:30pm. Every of the stalls available in the market is numbered, so after getting your favourites, you’ll be able to at all times return.
With a median of 40,000 guests coming to La Boqueria daily, it’s no shock that that is one other place that will get crowded within the metropolis, however for those who’re a foodie, you actually should make time for it.
12. Sandwiches With a Facet of Cava
Top-of-the-line locations to go to in Barcelona earlier than going out for a late evening is Can Paixano. This bustling, small store serves nothing however a couple of tapas, sandwiches, and cava, (Spanish glowing wine).
Order on the bar and take your sandwich to go, or keep awhile with the locals, holding a glass of bubbles in a single hand, and your sandwich within the different!
My advice is the sliced sausage squished between a comfortable hamburger bun with melted cheese… and some glasses of cava, (after all).
Costs are very cheap at round €1.50 – €3 for every part. Can Paixano is open from midday till 10:00pm, and is closed Sunday and Monday. Discover it here on the map.
13. Go to the Vineyards
It’s no secret that Spain is legendary for its wine. And fortunately, throughout your journey to Barcelona, you received’t need to go removed from the town to go to vineyards and style some unbelievable wines.
Situated simply 35 minutes by automotive, or 45 minutes by practice, is the well-known Penedés wine area.
Throughout this fun wine experience, you’ll go to two wineries and style some premium wines or cavas. Plus, you’ll obtain a snack at every cease. Whereas driving between the wineries, (in a classic Mehari!), you’ll study in regards to the area, grape rising, and extra out of your information.
After the vineyard visits, your host Neus will put together a picnic within the vineyards, full with native meals and extra wine, (as many glasses as you need…).
When you selected to reach by practice, Neus shall be ready for you on the Sant Sadurdí d’Anoia practice station to whisk you away into the countryside.
Don’t miss this highly rated experience simply exterior of the town. When you’d moderately have a non-public journey for 2, Neus can prepare it. This is without doubt one of the most romantic issues to do in Barcelona for certain.
14. Watch Some Dancing (or Take part)
Top-of-the-line issues to do in Barcelona on a Sunday is to go to the Plaça de la Virreina and watch some lindy hop dancing! You’ll discover this sq. within the Gràcia neighbourhood, (which in itself is a superb place to go to within the metropolis).
Wander across the plaza and go to the Sant Joan de Gràcia church earlier than stopping at one of many cafes to benefit from the dancing. Even for those who can’t go to on a Sunday, pop by Plaça de la Virreina for a drink.
15. Make Your Personal Footwear
This is without doubt one of the extra distinctive issues to do in Barcelona that you simply received’t need to miss. Create your personal pair of conventional Catalan espadrilles, (handmade footwear), as a particular memento so that you can preserve out of your journey to Barcelona.
Meet up with Luis and his spouse Kathe, who’re the founders and artisans of Handmade Barcelona. They’ve been making footwear for years whereas working this moral model of handmade conventional footwear from Cataluña.
Somewhat than merely purchase a pair of footwear, why not make your personal?!
Throughout this shoemaking experience with Luise and Kathe, you’ll meet at their workshop within the Gothic Quarter to discover ways to make your personal espadrilles, and customise them to your liking. In addition they have some cava out there for those who get thirsty. Study extra and ebook this memorable expertise here.
FAQs About Visiting Barcelona
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on a visit to Barcelona.
Is Barcelona protected?
Barcelona has a reasonably dangerous repute for being a pickpocket haven.
Be aware of your belongings whereas strolling across the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, and main vacationer sights… particularly when strolling at evening. Keep watch over your pockets, purse, and backpack. Be aware in eating places, and don’t depart your belongings on the bottom, or your telephone on any tables.
When unsure, simply take taxis or Ubers at evening as they’re very inexpensive within the metropolis. Having mentioned all of that, we spent greater than every week in Barcelona and had nothing however optimistic experiences.
What do you have to not miss in Barcelona?
When you received’t be capable to see every part, in Barcelona you received’t need to miss seeing Antoni Gaudi’s work, (particularly La Sagrada Familia), making (and eating) paella, happening a tapas tour, and easily wandering across the numerous neighbourhoods to absorb the ambiance.
What ought to I NOT do in Barcelona? (Issues to Keep away from)
Don’t anticipate folks to talk English in Barcelona, don’t flaunt your valuables, don’t purchase issues from distributors on Las Ramblas, don’t take part any road video games, don’t over tip, (5-10% is okay), and don’t eat at touristy eating places the place the menu is in English — go for the genuine meals!
Is 3 days lengthy sufficient in Barcelona?
Sure, 3 days is sufficient time in Barcelona. You could not be capable to, (or need to), go to any of the sights exterior of the town just like the wineries right now, nevertheless, with 3 days, you’ll be capable to cowl the entire major sights and luxuriate in a number of the wine and tapas bars!
The place to Keep in Barcelona
There are various unimaginable neighbourhoods in Barcelona, every with its personal ambiance. To have the ability to greatest get pleasure from the entire Barcelona sights and funky issues to see, listed here are some nice areas to remain:
1. Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)
That is the guts of Barcelona and it’s about as central as you may be. The well-known pedestrian road, La Rambla, separates the Gothic Quarter and the edgier El Reval. El Born neighbourhood additionally borders the Gothic Quarter.
There are quite a few locations to remain right here, take a look at this spacious 3-bedroom apartment, this chic Southeast Asian inspired loft, or this deluxe apartment.
2. El Born
It is a beautiful barrio with medieval structure, quite a few eating places and bars, boutiques, and a big park. There are many flats and lodging right here. Take a look at this modern apartment, or this cozy studio with a balcony.
3. Eixample
It is a extra upscale space of Barcelona with plenty of luxurious outlets and lodging. Somewhat than slender, cobbled streets like within the outdated city, you’ll discover brilliant, open avenues. This neighbourhood is residence to one in every of Barcelona’s hottest sights, Sagrada Familia.
This gorgeous penthouse apartment is an effective possibility, as is this two bedroom apartment, and this apartment with a pool and garden.
4. Gràcia
It is a extra residential space, which seems like a city throughout the metropolis of Barcelona. That is the place we stayed throughout our journey and located it to be an awesome native space crammed with genuine bodegas, (wine bars), eating places, and quieter streets. It’s additionally actually shut to a different of Gaudi’s creations, Park Güell.
The lodging in Gràcia are extra inexpensive than different areas of the town, and also you’re only a fast stroll, or metro journey away to the perfect issues to do in Barcelona. Take a look at this highly rated apartment within the middle of Gràcia and this beautiful apartment with a rooftop terrace.
Now You Know The Greatest Issues To Do in Barcelona
There are such a lot of enjoyable issues to do in Barcelona, it’s actually top-of-the-line cities, not simply in Spain, however in all of Europe. Prepare for unbelievable meals, welcoming folks, fascinating structure, and epic nightlife.
Barcelona is a metropolis for all sorts of travellers, plus it’s additionally an awesome place to reside as a digital nomad and is without doubt one of the high locations to show English — it actually has one thing for everybody. I hope this information to the highest issues to see in Barcelona helps you propose your journey.
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