Ultimate Barcelona Guide: 8 Unmissable Things to Do 

300 annual days of sunshine, Gaudí marvels around every corner and top-notch tapas just scratches the surface of what the Catalonian capital has to offer.

There are few cities that can match the sheer diversity of Barcelona. A 30-minute stroll through the Catalan capital covers heritage landmarks, magnificent museums, buzzing bars, some of the world’s best restaurants and a beautiful beach, all just waiting to be visited. Whether bronzing by the sea, snacking at La Boqueira off Las Rambla, tracing Picasso’s footsteps or gazing at Gaudí’s rule-defying architecture – Barcelona is your one-stop hola-day destination. 

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Ramble down Las Ramblas 

The poet, Federico García Lorca, once said Las Ramblas was ‘the only street in the world [he] wished would never end.’ The vibrant thoroughfare is the main artery of the heart of Barcelona, home to the famous La Boqueria (more on that later), stunning Spanish architecture, cultural landmarks like the Liceu Opera House and a swathe of street performers looking to entertain or puzzle. However, it’s down its veins – the small laneways running off the main street – that the real treats lie. Stop for coffee at Satan’s Coffee Corner, or ARTiSA Barcelona or snack on small plates at Güell Tapas before visiting Palau Güell, a fantastic example of early Gaudi architecture. When thirst strikes, enjoy a sip of water from the Canaletes Fountain – legend promises one sip will guarantee your return to Barcelona.   

Explore the Gothic Quarter and Gaudí architecture 

Antoni Gaudí’s quirky modernist architecture and the city’s haunting gothic cathedrals and romantic facades have refined the city’s unique tapestry. Join a tour of Barcelona’s grand landmarks and bear witness to the grandeur of La Sagrada Familia, a UNESCO-World Heritage Basilica that has been in construction since 1882, as well as Casa Mila, Gaudí’s last private residence and one of his most iconic works. Fancy taking the self-guided option? Get lost in the Gothic Quarter, where the famed architect’s very first project, Placa Reial, still stands.  

Discover a master’s work at The Museo Picasso 

Pablo Picasso spent nine fruitful years studying and working in Barcelona, weaving his infamous art style into the city’s artful history. Discover his extensive collection of artworks at The Museo Picasso and learn about his beautiful connection to Barcelona in his early life. See lesser-known works of realism portraiture, sketches, sculpture and ceramics, as well as famous works of cubism and collage. The museum also hosts a library which chronicles his life – visits are by appointment so make sure you book in advance.  

Soak up the sun at Barceloneta Beach

Need to rest your feet after all the exploring? Have a chillout day at Barceloneta Beach, just minutes from the centre of the city. This is where locals go to soak up the sun’s rays, before pulling up at one of the nearby restaurants for a world-class lunch. Arrive in the afternoon to cool off with a drink at the glamorous Eclipse Bar at the W Hotel, devour tapas as the sun sets and dance well into the morning at one of the many bars and nightclubs.  

Peruse produce at La Boqueria Market 

La Boqueria market has been trading fresh seafood, meat and sweet goodies since the 13^th century – and its long-standing history has made it a wildly popular destination for locals and tourists alike. There are over 300 stalls to choose from, but the fresh olives, local cheese and Spanish wine are must-tries. For something a little more substantial, grab a table at Ramblero for ocean-fresh seafood platters, or Bar Clemen’s Boqueria, which has been serving traditional plates to the masses at La Boqueria for multiple generations.  

Take in the sky-high views

Barcelona’s cityscape is one-of-a-kind, so take advantage of the area’s mountainous landscapes with a hike for glorious city views. Climb to the top of Mount Tibidabo to find not only stunning views of the city below but Europe’s second-oldest amusement park, featuring vintage carnival rides and a dedicated skywalk. A brisk walk through Park Güell is an afternoon well spent, with sweeping city views and colourful tile mosaics and quirky architecture at every turn. If you prefer to stay near the A/C, visit the Mirador Torre Glories observatory for a sky-high vantage point.  

Take yourself on a tapas tour 

Eat like a true Spaniard by sharing tapas and sangria as you hop through the city’s culinary destinations. Stop by Quimet i Quimet for succulent anchovies and artichokes before heading down La Rambla to El Quim for a mouthwatering paella. Be sure to make a stop at Balius cocktail bar for sundowner drinks and bites, or pop into Ten’s Tapas Restaurant for a fancier affair with modern twists on Spanish favourites. End your night at Paradiso – named the World’s Best Bar. With enough planning, you may even be able to snag a reservation at Michelin-starred Disfrutar, which recently took out the second-top spot in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023.

Go luxury shopping at La Roca Village 

Fifth Avenue doesn’t want you to know about Barcelona’s best-kept secret. La Roca Village is a luxury shopping strip straight out of a shopaholic’s dream. Grab genuine styles from major brands like Gucci, Burberry and Prada for majorly discounted prices, stopping to fuel your fashion frenzy at gourmet restaurants and upscale cafes. If you’re saving up for your next stop in Europe, the village is worth a visit anyway, with plenty of elegant, colourful alleys that take window shopping to glamorous new heights.   

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Looking for more inspiration? Check out our guide on How to Choose Your Spanish Escape.