When planning your dream trip, it’s hard to beat Barcelona. Barcelona’s rich history and culture have shaped it into a beautiful, dynamic city with stunning architecture and world-class museums. There are many things to do in Barcelona for any traveler, from exploring timeless buildings to relaxing on stunning beaches.
Whether you’re a history and culture buff, a foodie, a beach bum or someone in between, pack your bags because adventure awaits you in Barcelona, Spain.
1. Explore the Majestic Basílica de la Sagrada Familia
- Address: Eixample, 08013 Barcelona, Spain
- Time needed: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
On your road trip through Spain, take time to explore the Majestic Basílica de la Sagrada Familia. This masterpiece of Gothic Revival and Art Nouveau architecture is known for its intricate details and soaring towers and is notably one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
This large and impressive church takes about two hours to explore and it’s recommended that you take a guided tour to see every impressive detail. There’s much to see, including different chapels, beautiful stained glass windows and the view of the city from one of the towers.
2. Discover the Architectural Wonders of Casa Batlló
- Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Barcelona legend Antoni Gaudí designed the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, but one of his most famous structural masterpieces is the Casa Batlló or as many people know it, the House of Bones. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a top spot on the list of things to do in Barcelona. The exterior of this building is symbolic, with many people believing its design is inspired by the legend of Saint George slaying the dragon. Inside, you’ll find clever use of space, light and color, adding to its elegance and mystery.
3. Wander Through the Colorful Park Güell
- Address: Carrer d’Olot, Gràcia, 08024 Barcelona, Spain
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
With ample time to explore, you can visit perhaps some of the most colorful architecture in Barcelona: Park Güell. This mosaic-covered park with a Gaudí museum and panoramic views was first imagined as a residential estate with luxurious homes. With failing success, it was then turned into a public park, now home to stunning panoramic views of Barcelona and a colorful mosaic dragon, to name a few things.
You must buy tickets in advance since this is a popular destination. However, there are also areas of the park that are free to visit if you’re traveling on a budget. Be sure to bring your walking shoes since covering the entire attraction can take a while.
4. Shop and Stroll Along Passeig de Gràcia
- Address: Passeig de Gracia
- Time needed: One-half a day to a full day
If you're looking for a full-day activity while in Barcelona, swing by Passeig de Gràcia. This major avenue is home to upscale shops, designer stores, architectural marvels like Casa Batlló and a wide variety of restaurants, cafes and bars, making it an important destination.
While roaming the avenue is free, the amount you spend will vary depending on what attractions you visit along the way. If you are traveling on a budget, the avenue is wide and pedestrian-friendly, so you can easily enjoy the views of the city without breaking the bank.
5. Relax on the Shores of Barceloneta Beach
- Address: Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, 16, 08003 Barcelona
- Time needed: 2 hours or more
One of the world’s most underrated city beaches is also one of the best things to do in Barcelona, especially if traveling on a budget. Barceloneta Beach is known for its golden sand, clear blue water and lively atmosphere, offering stunning views of the sea and the city skyline.
You can sunbathe on the beach, swim in the water or try your hand at beach volleyball. And when you need a break from the sun, there are plenty of restaurants, bars and shops nearby where you can spend the rest of your afternoon.
6. Admire Masterpieces at Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC)
- Address: National Palace Montjuïc Park, 08038 Barcelona
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours
When considering things to do in Barcelona, add visiting the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya to the itinerary. This museum is a fantastic place to explore Catalan art and culture. It features Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and modern art exhibits. Beyond paintings, you can find sculptures, drawings and engravings, making this museum one of a kind.
7. Watch the Spectacular Montjuïc Magic Fountain Show
- Address: Pl. de Carles Buïgas, Sants-Montjuïc, 08038 Barcelona
- Time needed: 1 hour
While in Barcelona, make time to visit one of the world’s most incredible fountains. Montjuïc Magic Fountain is a large circular fountain renowned for its scheduled shows of water and light choreographed to music, making it a must-see attraction. Over the length of the water show, you’ll see different music and light combinations being used to create a unique atmosphere.
While the shows usually last around 30 minutes, it’s best to get there early because it is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. Before you go, check the official Barcelona website to ensure the show is running since it closes down during droughts. When running, you can catch this show multiple times a night from 8:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
8. Experience the Thrill of the Camp Nou Tour
- Address: Les Corts, 08028 Barcelona
- Time needed: 2 hours
A must-do in Barcelona is to tour the Camp Nou stadium, home of FC Barcelona. This impressive stadium is one of the largest stadiums in Europe, with a capacity of over 99,000 attendees. While attending a game is always recommended, you can also just tour the stadium and museum, admiring the trophies while learning about the club’s history and legendary players.
9. Get Lost in the Charm of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter
- Address: Ciutat Vella, Barcelona
- Time needed: Half a day
If visiting Barcelona on a budget, exploring the Gothic Quarter is one of the top-rated Barcelona activities. This historic neighborhood is known for its narrow, winding streets, Gothic architecture and lively atmosphere, making it an unforgettable location. Take some time to get lost and explore the hidden courtyards and alleyways, the Picasso Museum or the Museu d'Història de la Ciutat (MUHBA) to learn about the city’s rich history.
10. See the “The World Begins With Every Kiss” Mural
- Address: Carrer dels Capellans, 16, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona
- Time needed: 30 minutes
When planning what to do in Barcelona, a free activity that you should plan to see is the “The World Begins With Every Kiss” mural. This colorful mosaic of birds, flowers and other symbols of peace and love is located on the wall of the Casa de la Misericordia and is a popular photo spot for both tourists and locals. While it most likely won’t take you the full 30 minutes for your photo-op, it’s a great spot to stop and enjoy the views of the city.
11. Take a Stroll Through Ciutadella Park
- Address: Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
- Time needed: 2 hours
One of the best things to do in Barcelona is to stroll through Ciutadella Park. There’s something for everyone — this park hosts a zoo, a lake, a monumental waterfall and multiple playgrounds, making it perfect for families. Located in the heart of Barcelona, spend a few hours relaxing and taking in the historical scenery in this picturesque park.
12. Hike Up Montjuïc Hill for Stunning Views
- Address: Carretera de Montjuïc, 66, 08038
- Time needed: Half a day
If you love the outdoors, visiting Montjuïc in Barcelona is the perfect adventure. This popular hill offers a mix of historical sites, cultural attractions, gardens and stunning city views to keep you busy if you have time to explore. The Montjuïc gardens offer a two-mile-long walking trail or if you want more adventure, try the 360º trail that goes all the way around Montjuïc, which is seven miles long.
You can find attractions along this hill like Fundació Joan Miró and the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. And while you can take the metro or bus to reach the top, exploring this impressive hill on foot will lead you to additional paths and trails.
13. Marvel at Casa Vicens Gaudí's Iconic Design
- Address: Carrer de les Carolines, 20-26, Gràcia, 08012 Barcelona
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Another must-do in Barcelona is to visit Casa Vicens Gaudí, designed by Antoni Gaudí and built between 1883 and 1885. This exquisite building blends elements of Orientalism, Art Nouveau and Catalan Modernism both inside and out and is home to exhibits that uncover the life and work of Gaudí.
While visiting, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the rooftop terrace, which offers a breathtaking view of Barcelona.
14. Experience the Uniqueness of La Pedrera (Casa Milà)
- Address: Pg. de Gràcia, 92, L’Eixample, 08008 Barcelona
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Another one of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous buildings is La Pedrera, a must-see for any visitor to Barcelona who wants to experience the city’s unique culture. This iconic building features flowing organic shapes resembling waves and clouds, surrounded by a mosaic of colorful ceramic tiles.
Inside, you can find "The Gaudí Room", which boasts colorful tiles, intricate woodwork and unique furniture. There’s even a rooftop bar to relax with an eagle-eye view of the city, making this a top stop for a scenic photo in Barcelona.
15. Enjoy a Concert at the Palau de la Música Catalana
- Address: C/ Palau de la Música, 4-6, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
For fans of music and architecture, you must visit the Palau de la Música Catalana while in Barcelona. This beautiful art nouveau concert hall is known for its stunning architecture and hosts a variety of concerts, including classical music, opera and jazz.
Visitors can tour the concert hall and enjoy a show; however, this formal venue has a dress code, so avoid wearing jeans or sneakers.
16. Visit the Bunkers del Carmel for Panoramic City Views
- Address: Carrer de Marià Labèrnia, 08032 Barcelona
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
If seeing Barcelona’s skyline is on your travel to-do list, add the Bunkers del Carmel to your itinerary. Built during the Spanish Civil War to help defend the city, these bunkers now offer 360-degree views, including the skyline and the surrounding mountains.
The original guns are no longer housed in the bunkers. Travelers often bring picnics and blankets to enjoy the views, but be aware that there is a curfew at 7:30 p.m. in the summer and 5:30 p.m. in the winter.
17. Dive Into Art at the Picasso Museum
- Address: Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Any art fan who visits Barcelona should prioritize visiting the Picasso Museum, which houses the world’s most extensive collection of Picasso’s works, including paintings, prints and ceramics. There are also interactive exhibits where you can learn more about Picasso and his life, making this museum an exciting experience for any art lover.
18. Indulge in Culinary Delights at Time Out Market Barcelona
- Address: Moll d’Espanya, 5, 2nd floor, Ciutat Vella, 08039 Barcelona
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Located on the upper floors of the Maremagnum shopping center, Time Out Market Barcelona is a lively food hall that has diverse food options and a fun atmosphere. You can order all types of food, from traditional Spanish tapas to international dishes like sushi, burgers and even different kinds of coffee.
You can usually find live music at Time Out Market, making the inviting atmosphere even more entertaining. It can get busy during peak hours, so if visiting for lunch or dinner, make sure you plan ahead to give yourself enough time.
19. Have Fun at Tibidabo Amusement Park
- Address: Plaça del Tibidabo, 3-4, 08035 Barcelona
- Time needed: Half a day to a full day
If you enjoy amusement parks, add a stop to Tibidabo Amusement Park to your Barcelona itinerary. While this isn’t your mega-theme park filled with the tallest coasters, visitors can find more classic and nostalgic rides like carousels, ferris wheels and bumper cars to keep the fun alive — with sweeping city and ocean views.
There are also plenty of shows and restaurants to keep the whole family enjoying the trip throughout the day. The amusement park has select hours, so it’s always best to confirm they will be open before buying advance tickets.
20. Savor Fresh Produce at Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria
- Address: La Rambla, 91, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
- Time needed: 1 to 3 hours
No trip to Barcelona is complete without visiting Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, one of the most famous markets in the world. Here, you can find almost any fresh produce you’d ever want, including fresh fruits and vegetables of every imaginable kind, seafood, cured meats, cheeses and nuts — and the list goes on.
Many vendors also offer prepared foods and juices, so you can grab a meal on the go. It’s best to go early, as the market is busiest in the late morning and early afternoon. Also, bringing cash is always a good idea, just in case a specific vendor doesn’t take cards.
Plan Your Spanish Getaway with AAA
Unsurprisingly, Barcelona is one of the best cities in the world to visit. With all the things to do in Barcelona, you can easily spend a decent part of your vacation just exploring what the city offers.
Book your trip to Barcelona with Trip Canvas to find the best deals on hotels, restaurants and local attractions so you can experience the magic without breaking the bank.