Barcelona is such a vibrant, bustling city with so much to see and do, from the incredible architecture of Anton Gaudí to the beautiful parks, colourful markets and delicious tapas – there’s even a beach!
Must See
Casa Batlló
Known as the ‘House of Bones’ by locals because of its spine-like roof resembling a dragon, this quirky apartment has to be admired not just from the outside but it’s interiors as well. You can get a discount on the entrance fee by purchasing your ticket in advance online.
Sagrada Família
Without a doubt, Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece is on everyone’s list. You must book online to visit the church as there’s always a queue for on the day tickets. Take a walk around the outside to see it from all angles.
Parc Güell
With sweeping views over the city, this has to be the most impressive public park I’ve ever seen. It’s best to go when it opens as it can get quite crowded during the day, plus if you’re visiting during summer months it can be very hot.
Casa Vicens
The first masterpiece of Gaudí, Casa Vicens was a summer house for the Vicens family. This is a must-visit in when in Barcelona, the attention to detail in the architecture is quite something. It’s also a lot less busy than the more well-known spots.
Parc de la Ciutadella
A green oasis in the city, take a stroll through the park and catch locals dancing in a pagoda, kids riding bikes and couples reading books and enjoying the sunshine. Within the park is a lake, a popular spot for a picnic with rowboat rentals.
Mossen Costs i Llobera Gardens
Situated at the foot of Montjuïc, the garden offers panoramic views of the city’s coastline. This park is unlike any other in Barcelona, with around 800 species of cactus and other succulent plants, you’ll feel like you’re in Palm Springs.
Where to Eat
La Boqueria Market
A bustling colourful food market with everything from fruit stalls, butchers, seafood, fresh produce and of course tapas bars.
Seaside lunch at Gallito
Enjoy Mediterranean dishes by the beach under a canopy of trees. Order the mussels, sit back and people watch.
Tapas at El Xampanyet
Dating back to 1929, this cosy tapas bar is always overflowing with hungry customers. Tip: Arrive 15 mins before opening to avoid the long queues and for a true experience, get a standing spot at the bar.
San Roman Xurros
This xurreria opened back in 1968, famous for their loop-shaped, crunchy xurros as Catalans call it. The owner has been making them for over 55 years, so you know it’s going to be good. They also do several variations throughout the week and fillings depending on the day.
For a drink or two…
Azimuth
The rooftop of Almanac Hotel has a multi-tiered terrace offering panoramic views over Barcelona.
Casa Bonay
Casa Bonay is more than just a hotel, set within a converted 1869 apartment building where locals and visitors come to meet. A place where you can grab a coffee, work away on your laptop, have tapas on the rooftop terrace or enjoy a cocktail over dinner.
Where to Stay
Almanac Hotel
Definitely a splurge but absolutely loved staying at the boutique hotel, Almanac Barcelona. From the rooftop bar and chic pool to the amazing service and oh so yummy breakfast. It’s only a few steps from Passeig de Gràcia, where you can find plenty of shops, restaurants, bars and museums.
Take a Day Trip
Blanes, Costa Brava
Blanes is a small seaside town known as the gateway to Costa Brava just an hour train ride from Barcelona. The highlight is the Marimurtra Botanical Garden with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
