What to do in Barcelona

Visit the Sagrada Família

The Sagrada Família is without doubt Barcelona’s most emblematic monument. Designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, this unfinished basilica is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. Its imposing towers and detailed facades tell biblical stories through intricate carvings. The interior of the basilica, bathed in colored light filtering through spectacular stained glass windows, is equally impressive. A visit to the Sagrada Família is an unforgettable experience, providing an insight into the scope of Gaudí’s vision and the importance of this project for Barcelona.

Explore Parc Güell

Another of Antoni Gaudí’s major creations, Parc Güell is a magical public space high above Barcelona. This colorful, whimsical park is famous for its vibrant mosaics, undulating structures and panoramic views over the city. As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll discover unique architectural features such as the mosaic salamander, sinuous columns and serpentine benches. Parc Güell is the perfect place to relax, admire Gaudí’s art and enjoy spectacular views.

Strolling along the Ramblas

Les Ramblas, Barcelona’s famous pedestrian avenue, is a must for any visit to the city. This lively promenade, which stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to the port, is lined with boutiques, cafés, restaurants and flower stalls. As you stroll along the Ramblas, you’ll encounter street artists, living statues and colorful markets. Be sure to visit the Boqueria market halfway along the route, where you can sample fresh produce and local specialities.

Admire the works at the Musée Picasso

The Musée Picasso, located in the Born district, houses one of the most important collections of works by Pablo Picasso. The museum traces Picasso’s artistic development, from his early academic drawings through cubism to his blue and pink periods. The works on display reveal the artist’s diversity and innovation. The museum is housed in five medieval palaces, adding a historical and architectural dimension to the visit. It’s a must for art lovers and Picasso admirers.

Discover the Barri Gòtic district

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is the city’s historic heart, where narrow, winding streets reveal architectural treasures at every corner. Strolling through this medieval labyrinth, you’ll discover Barcelona Cathedral, picturesque squares like Plaça Reial, and Roman remains. Small boutiques, traditional cafés and tapas bars add to the district’s charm. The Barri Gòtic is a fascinating place to explore Barcelona’s history and feel the authentic atmosphere of the old town.

Relaxing on Barcelona‘s beaches

Barcelona is blessed with many magnificent beaches along the Mediterranean coast. Barceloneta beach is the most famous and liveliest, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and water sports. The slightly quieter beaches of Bogatell and Mar Bella offer a relaxed atmosphere and are popular with the locals. Seaside promenades, seafood restaurants and beach bars make Barcelona’s beaches the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

Visit the Boqueria market

The Boqueria market, located on the Ramblas, is one of Barcelona’s most famous and liveliest markets. This colorful market offers an incredible variety of fresh produce, from fruit and vegetables to seafood, meats, cheeses and spices. The stalls are packed with local and international specialities, and visitors can enjoy tapas, fresh fruit juices and dishes cooked on the premises. The Boqueria market is a sensory experience not to be missed by gourmets.

Explore Montjuïc

Montjuïc is a hill overlooking Barcelona, offering a multitude of cultural and leisure attractions. Montjuïc Castle, a historic fortress, offers breathtaking views of the city and the sea. Montjuïc Park is also home to the Botanical Gardens, the Olympic Stadium and several museums, including the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC), which boasts a vast collection of Catalan art. In the evening, don’t miss the Magic Fountain show, a performance of light, music and water that draws crowds of visitors.

Admire Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló, another of Gaudí’s major works, is an architectural marvel located on Passeig de Gràcia. This modernist house is distinguished by its undulating façade, mask-like balconies and dragon-skin roof. The interior is equally impressive, with organic details, colorful stained glass and innovative elements. A visit to Casa Batlló reveals Gaudí’s ingenuity and creativity at its best.

Enjoy Catalan cuisine

Catalan cuisine is rich and varied, reflecting the region’s cultural and geographical diversity. In Barcelona, you can enjoy traditional dishes such as paella, fideuà (a kind of paella with noodles), escalivada (grilled vegetables) and crema catalana (a dessert similar to crème brûlée). Tapas, small portions of a variety of dishes, are another specialty not to be missed. Barcelona’s markets, restaurants and tapas bars offer a multitude of options for discovering and savoring the local gastronomy.