Best Things to do in Barcelona (2023 Edition)
Whether you are an art buff, a nature lover or a foodie, Barcelona really has everything on offer. People often ask us how many days they should spend in the city especially if it’s their first time and we think that 3 to 5 days is best. If you have more time and want to spend a week in Catalonia you can also venture out to the Costa Brava and enjoy the beach and beautiful towns. The best time to go is from April to June and September to November when the weather is still nice but there are way less crowds.
Below you’ll find a list of some of our favourite things to do in Barcelona, some are very touristy while others are quite the secret. Contact us if you want us to plan your perfect trip to Barcelona.
Plau de la Musica Catalana
The Palau de la Musica Catalana is a beautiful place visited both by tourists and people from Barcelona. We think the best way to see it is through a self guided tour at your own time. Both the inside and the outside of this attraction are absolutely magical.
Top Instagrammable Spot ✨
C/ Palau de la Música, 4-6, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Sagrada Famila and Park Güell
The Sagrada Familia and the Park Güell are some of the most touristy places in town but are definitely worth a visit. Both places are works of Gaudi who is known as the greatest exponent of Catalan Modernism.
Top Instagrammable Spot ✨
C/ de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain
Picasso Museum
A great museum rich in contents and exhibits about Picasso. The museum is quite spacious and you can learn a lot about Picasso’s life and his works. The museum itself is absolutely beautiful - a great activity if you like museums or for a rainy day.
Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Moco Museum
The Moco Museum is all about modern art and having fun. A great place if you like Banksy, Andy Warhol and similar artists. It’s an abstract experience that fills you with joy and inspiration.
Top Instagrammable Spot ✨
Carrer de Montcada, 25, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
The Food Markets
Stroll through some of Barcelona’s favourite food markets: Mercado de La Boqueria, Mercat del Ninot, Santa Caterina. Walk around, eat some snacks, drink a caña (beer) and feel a bit like a local.
Free Activity
You can also get a market tour with cooking class if you prefer
Various Locations
Gothic Quarter
Strolling through the gothic quarter is a magical experience. I love it as it’s a super artsy area and you can find small shops dedicated to paintings and ceramics. Some attractions are Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça del Rei, Plaça Sant Jaume and the Jewish Quarter
Free Activity
Pla de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
To the Mountains
To be honest I much prefer the mountains around Barcelona than the beaches. Head up to Tibidabo and Montjuïc or go for a walk at the Carretera de las Aguas and act like a local (this is where all the people from Barcelona go for a walk/ run on the weekend).
Definitely worth it is also a trip to the now famous Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor
Top Instagrammable Spot ✨
Free Activity
Shopping
Go shopping around Barcelona! Honestly Barcelona has some of the best shopping in Europe, you’ll find luxury brands, your ZARA and Massimo Dutti’s but also small stores and brands that can only be found in Spain. Start at Paseo de Gracia and walk down to the Gothic Quarter or to Diagonal for some home furniture and decoration.
Various Locations