Barcelona is such a beautiful city filled with incredible architecture, unique art, and stunning culture. It’s one of the best cities in Europe and one we definitely suggest adding to your list of places to visit. From some of the most beautiful buildings in the world to mouthwatering churros and stunning beaches along the Mediterranean, Barcelona really has it all. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, or just like getting lost in a new city, Barcelona certainly won’t disappoint. Here are the ten best things to do in Barcelona:
10 Things to Do in Barcelona
1. Wake Up Early and go to Park Güell:
Park Güell is one of the most iconic spots in the city. With its beautiful mosaics and sweeping city views, it was one of our favorite spots in the city! If you get there before “opening hours” it’s free! You can also go after “opening hours” and you won’t have to pay either. We got there right at sunrise and watched the light spill over the city. Even though we were there super early, there were still quite a few people there, so we’d definitely suggest going right at sunrise if you want to experience it without the crowds.
2. Take a photo at the kiss of freedom:
3. Visit Palau de la Música Catalana:
4. Go Inside Casa Batlló:
5. La sagrada Família:
You can’t go to Barcelona without seeing Gaudí’s epic masterpiece La Sagrada Família. The detail and beauty of the church is absolutely breathtaking. It’s by far one of the most intricate and detailed buildings in the world. It’s been under construction since 1882 and it’s expected to be completed in 2026, meaning it will take almost 150 years to complete! It costs 17€ to get in with a basic ticket, but guided tours are also available for a bit more. We suggest getting your tickets online ahead of time and going first thing in the morning to beat the crowds. It’s definitely worth going inside, because the design, colors, and stained glass windows are unlike any other building in the world.
Tip: To get the best photo, go to the park across the street, Plaça de Guadí.
6. Check out catedral barcelona:
7. Grab a Snack at La Boqueria:
8. Relax at Parc de la ciutadella:
Walking around Barcelona can get pretty exhausting, so take some time to rest at Parc de la Ciutadella. You can row boats in the lake, visit the zoo, have a picnic, or take a photo in front of the iconic fountain.
9. Enjoy Some of Picasso’s Greatest Works at the Picasso Museum:
10. Watch sunset from bunker del carmel:
Where to Stay:
Cotton House Hotel:
We absolutely loved our stay at Cotton House Hotel. It’s on our list of top five hotels we’ve ever stayed in. Everything from the design to the food to the hospitality is absolutely above and beyond. The interior design of the hotel is what all of my dreams are made of. And the breakfast was absolutely divine! They offer gluten-free and vegan options and the most delicious baked goods. I didn’t think I needed cake for breakfast, but the cake and cookies they have are so delicious.
The views from the rooftop pool are beautiful! You can even see La Sagrada Famiília from there. It’s an amazing spot to spend the afternoon and escape a bit of the hustle of the city while still enjoying the views of the city. Cotton House Hotel is located right in the heart of the city, so it’s the perfect place to stay so you can easily walk outside and explore the city. We absolutely loved our stay there and hope to go back again soon!
BOOK YOUR STAY AT Cotton House Hotel!
What to Pack for Her:
JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.What to Pack for Him:
JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.PIN IT:
I’ve never been but we plan to go next year on our Europe trip – either a cruise or a Spain/Ibiza/Mallorca/French Riviera trip.
Ah that sounds like it would be an amazing trip! Have a blast!
Don’t forget the Chocolate Museum and Poble Espanyol in Barcelona!
Oo those both sound incredible! We’ll definitely check them out next time we’re there! Thanks for the recommendations!
Great tip on the Park Guell free entry! I have a quick question since I was just reading the Park Guell website before my Barcelona trip later this month–was the early morning free entry into the area they call "restricted" on their website? The website also refers to it as the "Monumental area"
According to what we’ve read, it looks like the "Monumental area" is only regulated during official park hours, so if you go the half hour before opening or half hour after closing, you can get in for free!
This is a wonderful help to us as we’ll be in Barcelona for 2 weeks at Christmas and New Year’s . . . any idea if Barcelona will be as busy as other times of the year? Thanks
That sounds like an amazing trip! I’m sure it’s fabulous at Christmas time, but yes I believe it will be busy. I’d say the best times to go are September or May if you’re looking for decent weather, but the Holidays will be great and so lively and fun! If you’re looking for no tourists and weather/the holidays aren’t factors, then I’d try late January.