Barcelona is a city like no other: where Gothic streets whisper centuries‑old secrets, Modernista masterpieces dazzle the eye, and sun‑kissed beaches meet lively tapas bars. In this guide you’ll find the top things to do in Barcelona, insider tips on beating the crowds, and the best ways to save on attractions and transport.
Visiting the Sagrada Familia it’s an unforgettable experience and a great way to be introduced into Gaudí’s architecture. Considered one of his greatest works, it was the second most visited monument in Spain in 2024, with 4,8 million visitors.
Marvel at its kaleidoscopic stained‑glass windows, climb one of the towers for panoramic city views, and book your advance tickets at least two weeks ahead to skip the line.
2. Park Güell, one of the top viewpoints in Barcelona
Park Güell is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where whimsical mosaic benches curve like sea serpents and the “gingerbread houses” delight every imagination.
Arrive at opening time to stroll the monumental zone in peace (this is one of the city's most visited places) and don’t miss the panoramic overlook of the skyline.
3. Casa Batlló: The Must-See Landmark in Barcelona
Casa Batlló is one of Barcelona's biggest landmarks. Considered one of the most creative designs made by Gaudi, it's impossible to miss if you walk down the Passeig de Gràcia.
Its undulating façade and bone‑like balconies make it one of Gaudí’s most fantastical creations. Inside, dive into the immersive audio‑guide tour to learn how the architect drew inspiration from marine life.
4. La Pedrera
Just a few blocks up, La Pedrera’s rooftop is a sculptural playground of chimney sentinels. Also known as Casa Milà, one of the most famous icons in the city.
Built and designed by Antoni Gaudí in 1912, one of the first figures and driving forces behind the modernista movement. Book a skip-the-line ticket to discover this masterpiece and don't miss “La Pedrera by Night” ticket for a magical starlit concert on the terrace beneath the surreal silhouettes.
5. Palau de la Musica Catalana, Barcelona's Modernista Concert Hall
One of the most celebrated concert halls in Barcelona and one of the most fantastic buildings the Modernista movement ever created. It has over 100 years of music history and it's listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
El Palau de la Música Catalana is a modernista gem dazzles with stained glass, ceramic mosaics, and wrought‑iron swirls. Attend a flamenco or chamber‑music recital for an unforgettable sensory feast, or book a guided visit or ticket to admire the iconic skylight mosaic.
6. Ciutadella Park
Ciutadella Park is the biggest in Barcelona, and located on the District of La Ribera, in the Old City quarter (Ciutat Vella).
Barcelona’s “green lung” combines sweeping lawns, the Cascada fountain by a young Gaudí, and theBarcelona Zoo is located within its grounds. Rent a rowboat on the lake, pic‑nic under leafy trees, then wander into the zoo’s conservation exhibits—ideal if you’re traveling with kids in Barcelona.
Barcelona Zoo: Perfect for a family outing in Barcelona
Located inside Parc de la Ciutadella, where it previously took place the 1888 Universal Exhibition, the Barcelona Zoo is one of the top places to visit with kids in Barcelona.
Its main objective has been the conservation of wildlife in a public urban environment and providing at the same time recreational services, especially for children.
8. Uncover the Secrets of Barcelona's Gothic Cathedral
Get lost in the labyrinthine heart of the Gothic Quarter to discover its crown jewel: the magnificent Barcelona Cathedral. While its foundations date from the 13th century, the grand Gothic facade that greets you holds a surprising secret—it's a breathtaking 19th-century masterpiece added to the ancient structure.
Step inside this 13th‑century marvel and let the sheer scale of the soaring nave humble you. But the true magic lies hidden in its sun-drenched medieval cloister, where a flock of 28 white geese has waddled for centuries, guarding this peaceful oasis.
For a final, unforgettable moment, ascend to the rooftop terraces. From here, you'll gaze out over a timeless panorama of ancient alleyways, truly feeling the soul of the city.
9. Santa Maria del Mar, the “Cathedral of the Sea”
Made famous by the best-selling novel, Santa Maria del Mar is even more spectacular in person. Often called “the people's cathedral,” this masterpiece was funded and built by local workers and sailors in the 14th century.
Book a guided tour and experience the incredible feeling of light and space that defines the pure Catalan Gothic style. To hear the powerful stories carved into its stones, book a guided tour and discover the legends of its builders.
10. La Boqueria: Barcelona’s Top Food Market
La Boqueriawasthe first market to open in Barcelona. It has become one of the city’s milestones. Not just regarded as a regular market, but more like a social and gastronomical experience. Here you can find every possible option to eat and drink.
Go early to beat the crowds—and grab breakfast at Bar Pinotxo.
11. Magic Fountain of Montjuic
The Magic Fountain of Montjuic is one of the most amazing spectacles in the city, and it's free of charge. It was one of the biggest innovations built for the 1929 International Exhibition, displaying water and light shows as early as 1922.
As evening falls, head to Plaça d’Espanya for the free light‑and‑water spectacle that’s been thrilling visitors since 1929. Check the schedule (varies by season) to catch the best music‑synchronized shows.
Sightseeing Areas in Barcelona
Barcelona has a some areas of great interest that can't be considered neither monuments nor neighborhoods. These areas concentrate many attractions and touristic spots altogether, mixed with shopping areas, nightlife and plenty of activities.
Las Ramblas: Barcelona's Most Iconic Promenade
No street is more famous in Barcelona than La Rambla, and while it's undeniably a tourist magnet, it remains a rite of passage for every first-time visitor. Walking its length is the perfect way to get your bearings and feel the city's energetic pulse.
Stroll from the top towards the sea and use it as your guide to discover Barcelona's treasures. Dive into the explosion of color and flavor at the iconic La Boqueria market, peek at the historic Liceu Theater, and find a moment of awe in the beautiful Plaça Reial.
Just remember to be savvy: enjoy the chaos, but keep a firm hand on your wallet or bag, as pickpockets are common. When you get hungry, treat La Rambla as a path, not a dining destination—the most authentic and delicious meals are found in the charming side streets, not the overpriced cafes lining the main boulevard.
Port Olimpic: A Legacy of the Summer Olympic Games of 1992
Twin skyscrapers towering over the marina in Port Olimpic (Olympic Harbor), Barcelona, Spain at sunset.
Along Barcelona’s sunny waterfront, the Olympic Port is alive all day and night. Stroll along the palm‑lined walkways to shop at stylish stores, grab fresh seafood at seaside restaurants, or sip a drink in one of the beach bars. When the sun goes down, the nearby nightclubs fill with music and dancing.
Standing tall at the port’s edge are the nearly identical Arts Hotel and Mapfre Tower These two towers mark your entrance to Barcelona’s modern side, and are a legacy of the major transformation Barcelona went through with the 1992 Olympics.
Whether you’re here to relax, play, or party, the Olympic Port has something for everyone—and offers a fresh take on Barcelona beyond the old city streets.
Montjuic, one of the Top Attractions in Barcelona
Montjuïc mountain rises above Barcelona’s harbour and once stood guard over the city. Today, it’s a top draw for visitors, packed with parks, museums, gardens and sports venues.
Hop on the cable car up to Montjuïc Castle for sweeping views of the city and sea. From there, you can explore lush gardens, visit the Olympic Stadium or step inside the National Art Museum—all just a short walk apart. This area features lots of attractions and many of the places to visit in Barcelona.
Tibidabo: For the Best Sights in Barcelona
For some of the best views in Barcelona, head up to Tibidabo. This hilltop sits at 512 meters, making it the highest point in the city and part of the Collserola mountain range.
At the top, you’ll find sweeping views, the iconic Sagrat Cor church, and Spain’s oldest working amusement park—a fun mix of vintage rides and family-friendly charm, all with the city skyline at your feet.
Barcelona Olympic Park: The Hub of the 1992 Olympic Games
This is where you’ll find the main venues from the 1992 Summer Olympics, including the Olympic Stadium. Originally built in 1929, it was fully renovated in 1989 to host the historic event that helped Barcelona shine on the world stage.
Today, you can walk through the Olympic Ring, explore the stadium, and relive the moment that marked a turning point in the city’s modern history.
Plaza España
National Art Museum and motjuic fountain in Barcelona at sunny summer day
Plaça Espanya is one of Barcelona’s main squares and a key point for getting around the city. It’s the starting point for visiting the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc and connects you to museums, shopping centers, and exhibition halls.
With its wide avenues, impressive architecture and central location, it’s a busy area full of things to see and do, making it a popular stop for both tourists and locals.
Last but not least, we find the Barcelona Forum. After the 1992 Olympic Games, the Forum was the most ambitious undertaking to take place in Barcelona. Nowadays, it's a huge multipurpose area in Barcelona with open spaces and squares, marina, museums, skyscrapers and parks.
Barri Gòtic: Lose yourself among Roman ruins, hidden medieval plazas, and tapas‑filled tavernas.
El Born: Trendy boutiques, Picasso’s early works at Museu Picasso, and the atmospheric Santa Maria del Mar.
Gràcia: This former village feels like a small town within the city—bohemian cafés, shaded plazas, and independent boutiques line its narrow streets. Stick around for the summer Festa Major street parties and evening vermut gatherings.
Eixample: Barcelona’s Modernista playground, where grid‑style avenues showcase Gaudí’s masterpieces (Casa Batlló, La Pedrera) alongside upscale boutiques, vermuterías, and elegant cafés.
Getting Around & Saving with the Barcelona Go City Pass
Pro Tip:The Barcelona Go City Pass bundles skip‑the‑line entry to over 20 top attractions plus unlimited bus and metro rides. Choose a 2‑ or 3‑day option, and you’ll not only save money — you’ll also breeze past long queues.
For day‑to‑day transport, grab a T‑Casual ten‑ride ticket (valid on metro, bus, and funicular) or download the T‑MB app for single‑ride options. Walking and cycling are also fantastic: many attractions lie within easy strolling distance.
Nearby Adventures and Day Trips from Barcelona
Montserrat Mountain & Monastery – Roughly 1 hour from Barcelona
If you’ve explored the city center and crave more, hop on the R2 Nord train to or book a day trip in Barcelona to:
Montserrat: A mountain monastery with hiking trails and a boys’ choir performance.
Sitges: A chic coastal town famous for beaches and festivals—just 40 minutes away.
Girona: Medieval lanes, Game of Thrones filming spots, and Catalan cuisine in a beautifully preserved old town.
Final Tips
Hit the beaches: After sightseeing, unwind on Barcelona’s sandy shores—Barceloneta for people‑watching, Bogatell for a more local vibe, or Nova Icària for family‑friendly amenities. Pack a towel and your favorite tapa to enjoy the Mediterranean sun!
Book ahead: Gaudí sites and flamenco shows sell out fast.
Stay savvy: Look for free‑entry evenings at museums (e.g., MNAC on the first Sunday of the month).
Eat like a local: Try a menú del día for an affordable three‑course lunch in neighborhood bistros.
Things to see in Barcelona
Check our to-do list of the most emblematic Barcelona attractions
It’s one of Gaudí’s greatest works and the symbol of Barcelona and second most visited monument in Spain. Don’t get left out, and buy your fast-track ticket to Sagrada Familia in advance.
Out of all the projects that Gaudí built in Barcelona, Park Güell stands out as one of those special and unique places in the city. Get skip-the-line tickets to Park Guell and see it with your own eyes.
Casa Batlló is one of Barcelona’s biggest landmarks and a worldwide unique piece of arquitecture. Visit Casa Batlló and experience a fantastic multimedia journey to the world of Gaudí.
La Pedrera, or Casa Milà, is one of the biggest Barcelona landmarks. Buy the fast-track ticket to La Pedrera and enjoy stunning views of Barcelona from its gorgeous rooftop.
The Dalí Theater Museum is the most important museum dedicated to the catalan surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. It’s located in a nearby town outside Barcelona.
