When you hear the word Barcelona, you are already expecting a colorful and spectacular city. And you wouldn’t be wrong. From the evergrowing La Sagrada Familia to the matchbox shops in the La Boqueria, Barcelona engages all your senses. Lose yourself in majestic Gothic architecture amidst landmark attractions like La Sagrada Familia or simply take a peaceful stroll at the quirky Park Guell. Feast on delicious streets food and take a swim in the tranquil beaches of Barcelona for an unforgettable vacation. Here is a complete travel guide to all you can do in Barcelona.

Top 10 Things to do in Barcelona

1. Sagrada Familia

City Landmark | Must-See

Designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, the Sagrada Familia is an architectural marvel that attracts more than 4.5 million visitors a year.

from €47

2. Park Guell

City Landmark | Park

Spread over 18 acres of hilly land, Park Guell is a testament to the famed architect Antoni Gaudi's creative and visual prowess in Barcelona.

from €10

3. Casa Mila

Gaudi's Attraction | House Museum

Casa Mila is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its grand architecture. t is also known as ‘La Pedrera’, that translates to ‘Stone Quarry’.

from €24

4. Casa Batlló

City Landmark | Gaudi's Attraction

Also known as Casa dels Ossos, “House of Bones”, Casa Batlló ranks high up in the list of the strangest residential buildings in Europe.

from €35

5. Casa Vicens

Gaudi's Attraction | House Museum

With its bright green and white tiles and its ornate cast-iron gate, Casa Vicens is a sight to behold! This house museum is a popular tourist attraction.

from €16

6. Colònia Güell

Industrial Village | Tourist Attraction

Colònia Güell is an industrial village 23-km from Barcelona that was commissioned by Count Eusebi de Güell for his textile mill. The Gaudi Crypt is one of the highlights of Colonia Guell.

Know More

7. Camp Nou

Landmark | Football Stadium

Home to FC Barcelona since its completion in 1957, Camp Nou is the largest stadium in Spain and the third-largest football stadium in the world with the capacity to accommodate 99,354 people at a time!

from €26

8. Poble Espanyol

History Museum

Poble Espanyol houses artworks of prominent artists like Picasso, Dali, and Miro and is one of the most intriguing open-air musuems in Barcelona.

from €14

9. Barcelona Cathderal

Religious Site | Landmark Attraction

This Gothic cathedral is a 15th-century masterpiece with a rich history and stunning architecture throughout its premises.

from €9

10. Palau De La Musica Catalana

Concert Hall

This is the only concert hall in the world to be declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get a chance to explore this 100 year old building with its lavish décor and interiors for an unforgettable experience.

from €18

Barcelona Travel Essentials

Must-Know

Weather

When to Visit

Budget

Travel Tips

Free Things

Apps

Travel Essentials in Barcelona

Language: Catalan and Spanish
Time Zone: Barcelona observes Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is 2 hours ahead of GMT, between March to October. Barcelona joins Central European Time (CET), 1 hour ahead of GMT, between November to March.
Currency: Euro - EUR - €
Country Code: +93
Socket Type: Type C & Type F
Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for any emergency.

Seasons in Barcelona

Spring in Barcelona

When: March - May

Average Temperatures: 9°C Low - 21°C High

Summer in Barcelona

When: June - August

Average Temperatures: 18°C Low - 27°C High

Autumn in Barcelona

When: September - November

Average Temperatures: 17°C Low - 26°C High

Winter in Barcelona

When: December - February

Average Temperatures: 9°C Low - 15°C High

When to Visit Barcelona

High Season

May to September

What to Expect:

Barcelona in high season sees huge tourist crowds and long lines at queues.
The weather is warm and balmy making it a great time to go swimming at the beach.
This is a good time to experience outdoor events since the sun is out till 9 PM.

Shoulder Season

March to April and September to October

What to Expect:

The weather is mild and pleasant during shoulder season.
You will find fewer crowds and more budget deals for hotels and flights.
It's the ideal time for travelers looking for a relaxed vacation.

Low Season

November to Early March

What to Expect:

Temperatures dip as winter sets in.
The sea becomes cold so you won't be able to in Barcelona's famous beaches.
You'll find lots of Christmas markets and festivities all around Barcelona.

Per Person Average Daily Budget in Barcelona

Budget Travel: €81

Budget travelers have reported spending around €26 per day in Barcelona. Visitors have spent €12 on meals and €6.31 on local transportation for a day.

Mid-Range Travel: €123

Past travelers have spent, on average, €27 on meals for one day and €15 on local transportation

Luxury Travel: €364

Luxury tourists may spend as much as €91 per day on meals and €48 transportation, with accommodation coming up to €146 for two people.

Barcelona Travel Tips

Use the Aerobus from the airport to reach the city quicker
Carry sunscreen, hats and sunglasses since Barcelona can get very sunny.
There's free entry to museums on the first Sunday of the month.
Tips are not an obligation in Barcelona.

More Barcelona Travel Tips

Free Things to do in Barcelona

Aside from popular tourist attractions in Barcelona, there are a range of free things to do in the city for budget travellers.

Visit La Boqueria, a famous market in Barcelona.
Admire street art across Barcelona.
Stroll through the Gothic Quarter.
Walk through La Rambla.

Apps to Download in Barcelona

Transportation Apps

Citymapper

Food Apps

Barcelona Restaurants

Other Useful apps

BCN Paisatage (Offers you unique corners to explore in Barcelona)
Google Translate
Spotted by Locals (Information about the city as given by locals

Know Before You Visit Barcelona

Airports

Visa

Insurance

Language

Internet

Phone Calls

Health

Money

Safety

Laws

Airports in Barcelona

El Prat de Llobregat Aeropuerto

Address: 08820 El Prat de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain

Visa Requirements to Visit Barcelona

To visit Barcelona, Spain, you will need to apply for a Spanish Visa. You will need to provide the following documents when you submit your visa application:

Visa Application Form.
Two biometric photos.
Your passport.
Copies of passport pages
Flight reservation.
Proof of accommodation.
Medical Insurance.
Medical Certificate.
Proof of Sufficient Financial Means.

Insurance in Barcelona

Travel Insurance for Visiting Barcelona

One of the most important prerequisites for a Spanish visa is to have travel medical insurance. Ensure your travel insurance covers unforeseen accidents, illness, repatriation and delayed and missed departures.

Insurance Tips

Make sure that your policy covers medical expenses.
Be sure to read the terms and conditions of your policy carefully.
Check if it covers cruises if you are planning to go on one while in Spain.
Purchase the policy as soon as possible, preferably before you leave for your trip.
If you are travelling with your partner or family, there are organisations that offer travel plans for couples and families at a cheaper price. Find a travel company that has such insurance plans for Spain.

Must-Know Phrases in Barcelona

Bon dia (bon dee-ah) - Hello
Merci (mehr-see) - Thank you
Adéu (ah-deh-ou) - Goodbye
Si us plau (see oos plow) - Please
Puc veure el menú? (pook vor al men-oo) - Can I see the menu?
Quant costa això? (kwant coh-sta ay-shoh) - How much does this cost?

Internet in Barcelona

There are many different internet providers in Barcelona, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. Here are some of the top internet providers in Barcelona.

Movistar.
Vodafone.
Orange.
MásMóvil.
Yoigo.
Jazztel.
Lowi.
O2.

Phone Calls in Barcelona

Spanish phone numbers always have nine digits and don't have a dialling code. A leading 0 no longer exists.
Spanish cell phone numbers start with a 6. Landline numbers start with an 8 or a 9.

Staying Healthy in Barcelona

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water since Barcelona can get very sunny and hot.
Carry lots of sunscreen and use a hat in the summers to save your skin from sun damage.
Carry comfortable shoes that allow you explore the city without straining yourself.
Barcelona is filled with delicious street food but look out for clean, hygienic places to eat from.

Money in Barcelona

Currency: Euro | EUR | €

When visiting Barcelona as a tourist, there are a number of payment options available. Euros are the official currency and are accepted at most stores and restaurants. Additionally, credit cards are widely accepted in the city. Most stores and restaurants will have terminals that can be used to process payments. Here are some applications to help you make payments in Paris:

Amazon Pay
SOFORT
PayPal
Apple Pay
bizum

Safety in Barcelona

Some tips to stay safe in Barcelona include:

Always be aware of your surroundings and be cautious when walking in unfamiliar areas.
Avoid carrying large sums of money or wearing expensive jewelry.
Be aware of scams, which are common in Barcelona. You'll find a lot of pickpockets in certain areas.
Make sure you have the contact information for your hotel or another trusted individual in case you get lost or need help.
Take a taxi or Uber instead of walking at night.

Laws in Barcelona

The following are some key laws that all tourists should be aware of when visiting Barcelona:

Drinking in the street is illegal. You can be fined between €30- €1500 according to the severity of the offense.
Wearing bikinis and going topless is only restricted to the beach.
It is illegal to buy goods from the unauthorised street sellers.
Possessing drugs for personal use does not constitute a criminal offence under Spanish law
Cyclists must use the cycle lanes on the roads

Attractions

Museums

Themeparks

Day Trips

Events

Sagrada Familia

Parc Guell

Barcelona Zoo

Casa Batllo

Barcelona Cathedral

Sant Pau

FC Barcelona Museum

Picasso Museum

MOCO Museum Barcelona

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

Wax Museum barcelona

Poble Espanyol

Fundació Joan Miró

Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona (MACBA)

Tibidabo Amusement Park

PortAventura Park

Ferrari Land Barcelona

Bubble Parc

PP's Park

Sitges

Montjuic

Girona

Costa Brava

Montserrat

San Pobla a Gracia

Salmon Dance Festival

Sant Medir

Feria de Abril

F1 Grand Prix

Barcelona Jazz Festival

L’Alternativa

How to Save Money in Barcelona

Barcelona can be quite expensive for tourists to visit. There are, however, a few ways tourists can save money while in Paris:

Buy food at the grocery store instead of eating out at restaurants.
Use public transportation instead of taxis or Uber.
Additionally, you can visit free attractions in the city or go on relaxing walks at La Ramblas or the Gothic Quarter.
Avoid eating at restaurants in tourist traps. Bring a water bottle and refill it instead of buying bottled water
Walk as much as possible; take the metro or buses only when necessary.
Consider staying in an Airbnb or renting an apartment rather than a hotel room.
Skip the expensive souvenirs and instead buy local produce or handicrafts to take home at markets like La Boqueria.

Know The City Neighborhoods

Gràcia

Tourist Hotspot

Gracia offers you the essence of a bohemian village and makes for a wonderful neighborhood in Barcelona to explore on your vacation.

Things to do:

The major attraction of Gracia is Gaudi’s surreal Park Guell.
You can check out the cinema space at the Cine Verdi.
Check out the live music bars and theaters.

El Born

City Walk | Cultural Hotspot

The neighborhood is known for its artisan and crafts stores and is a little less touristy. El Born perfectly blends the old and new aspects of Barcelona.

Things to do:

Check out the Picasso Museum, and explore the work of the Spanish artists.
Visit the Santa Caterina market to purchase the best Spanish produce.
A coffee lover? Head to Spain’s best coffee at Café el Magnifico.

Poblenou

City Landmark

This neighborhood has two sides to it, the lower part, which lies close to the sea, is quite traditional whereas the upper part near Torre Glories has transformed enormously.

Things to do:

Visit Bogatell beach.
Experience the live music scene.
Visit the Palo Alto market for a perfect environment filled with cultural and upcoming designers.

Raval

City Landmark

This is a multicultural neighborhood with a wide array of restaurants run by the locals with the best Indian and Middle Eastern eateries in Barcelona.

Things to do:

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona.
If you are old school, explore El Raval’s vintage shops and eclectic bars.
Visit Ramba del Raval and check out the street art, quirky bars and great restaurants.

Sant Antoni

Food & Drinks

Santo Antoni has a great atmosphere, its hidden gems, and an array of great bars to choose from. Top chefs like Albert Adria of El Bulli fame also have their eateries opened in this neighborhood.

Things to do:

The Sant Antoni Market of Antique Books: Whether you are a book lover or not, this is the place to experience legendary reads through history.
Visit the Gallery of Escalera De Incendios. Here you can check out various temporary exhibitions by young photographers and artists.

Poble-Sec

Cultural

Poble Sec, situated in the Sant-Montjuic district of Barcelona is the city’s most culturally diverse place to be at..

Things to do:

Visit the Archeological Museum of Catalonia to learn all about its history.
Visit the Poble Espanyol where you can have a glimpse into Spain’s history and architecture.
Head to the most famous theater in the area – El Molino.

Barri Gòtic

Historic

This is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Barcelona and is surrounded by old city walls and is filled with medieval buildings.

Things to do:

Admire a great view from the Cathedral of Barcelona.
Explore the Roman Streets at the Museum of History of Barcelona.
Grab a cup of coffee in Picasso’s shadow at Els Quatre Gats

Eixample

Happening Tourist Spot

This neighborhood portrays the modern side of Barcelona. There has been a lot of development done in the city in recent times.

Things to do:

You can shop various luxury brands from Passeig de Gracia.
You can explore various art galleries and restaurants offering Spanish cuisine at La Rambla.

Getting Around Barcelona

By Metro

Almost every attraction in and around the city is linked by metros and they come and go at a very fast pace. Your waiting times are minimal and connections are frequent as the train runs in a tight cycle of 1 minute and 30 seconds.

Timings: Mondays-Thursdays: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM. Fridays: 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM. Saturdays to Sundays: Continuous operation

Fare: €2.4

Metro Map of Barcelona

By Bus

The bus network in Barcelona is one of the most well-constructed in the world and is the backbone of all city operations. The TMB currently operates over 230 lines and the buses can get you to any corner of the city.

Timings: Buses ply between 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM. Night buses: 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM

Fare: €2

Bus Map of Barcelona

By Suburban Rail

The suburban trains in and around Barcelona are operated by the FGC or Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya and Renfe. The train system runs along Costa Brava to Blanes, to the airport and along the coast via places such as Castelldefels and Sitges to Tarragona.

Know Before Driving in Barcelona

Cars can overtake and pass others from the left
Cars that are approaching from the right have the right of way
Cars in traffic circle have the right of way
Mobile use is not permitted while driving. Fines are starting from 90€ and up to 300€
All passengers have to wear a seatbelt
Children under 10 years old must sit in the back

What to Eat in Barcelona

Must-Try Spanish Food

Paella: This iconic rice and seafood dish actually originates from Valencia. It is considered Spain’s national dish.
Bombas: These are ball-sized potato croquettes that are served with two different sauces: a white garlic allioli and a spicy red sauce.
Pa amb Tomàquet: This simple yet delicious dish is a staple in Spain. It is made with bread-rubbed with garlic and the juice of a tomato.
Escalivada: This dish is made with grilling eggplant and red peppers over an open wood fire and serving them on toasted bread.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

There are a wide variety of accommodation options in Barcelona, catering to all sorts of travelers.

Budget Hotels

Barcelona can be a very expensive city to stay in, but there are some great budget hotels available if you know where to look.

Budget hotels in Barcelona

Mid-Range Hotels

If you're looking for a more traditional hotel experience in Barcelona, there are plenty of mid-range options to choose from, regardless of your budget.

Luxury Hotels

There are several alternatives if you're searching for a more luxurious hotel experience in Barcelona.

Boutique Hotels

If you're looking for a luxurious and unique hotel experience while in Barcelona, then a boutique hotel may be the perfect option for you.

Boutique hotels in Barcelona

Airbnbs

There are several benefits of staying at an Airbnb in Barcelona. For one, Airbnbs are often much more affordable than regular hotels. Additionally, they offer a more authentic Cataln experience, as you'll be living in a neighborhood rather than just visiting it. Airbnbs also provide a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends.

Hostels

Hostels can be a great option for budget-minded travelers in Barcelona. Not only are they typically much more affordable than regular hotels, but they also offer a more authentic Catalan experience. International Youth Hostel

Where to Shop in Barcelona

You can find all sorts of different types of shops in Barcelona, from high-end boutiques to quirky stores selling vintage toys. And the best part is that there's something for everyone, no matter what you're looking for. As for shopping for souvenirs, you can find them at souvenir shops or marketplaces all around the city.

Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol

This is a typical square frequented by Catalan artists. Many musicians, painters, and fortune-tellers settle down to share and sell their work in this area.

Location: 08002 Barcelona, Spain
What to buy: Handicrafts and designer items

Passeig de Gracia

Passeig de Gràcia was designed to be Barcelona's most classy and elegant pathway. It is now a popular commercial area with renowned designer stores and some affordable brands

Location: Find on map
What to Buy: Designer brands, souvenirs

Mercat de Sant Antoni

The Mercat de Sant Antoni is an enticing Spanish food market for those looking to witness Barcelona’s local culture.

Location: Find on map

What to buy: memorabilia like old books, comic strips, stamps, currencies, and postcards.

Mercat La Boqueria

Offering a wealth of produce, from fresh fruits and vegetables to delicious seafood, the Boquería Market is where you will find Catalonia's true flavors.

Location: Find on map

What to buy: Fresh produce, vegetables, meat

Rambla de Catalunya

Rambla de Catalunya is the most trendy corridor in Barcelona, full of designer stores, luxurious hotels, and high-end restaurants.

Location: Find on map

What to buy: Beauty products, unique furniture

Best Tours in Barcelona

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

With Hop-on Hop-off tours, you'll have access to all that Barcelona has to offer while never having to worry about getting lost or missing your favorite attractions!

Hop on Hop off Bus Tours in Barcelona

Walking Tours

The best part about Barcelona is the fact that the city can be entirely explored on foot.. There are a number of great walking tours available if you're looking to explore Barcelona on foot.

Walking Tours in Barcelona

Guided Tours

Guided tours in Barcelona are a great way to see all the famous tourist spots without having to worry about getting lost. You can learn about the history of each landmark and find out interesting facts that you would never have known otherwise

Bicycle Tours

A city with some of the most organized streets means that it is the ideal place for riding bikes, looking at the splendid architecture and enjoying the warm Mediterranian breeze.

Day Trips from Barcelona

Girona

101 km | 1 Hours Drive

At a distance of 100km from Barcelona is Girona, a medieval town on the banks of River Onyar. The city even served as one of the locations of the popular series Game of Thrones and is an exciting town to visit.

Good for: Historical Architecture

Things to do in Girona:

Visit the Girona Cathedral,
Museu d'Història dels Jueus and River Onyar

Girona Day Trip

Montjuic

6 km | 20 min

The birthplace of Barcelona, and now one of the highest points overlooking the harbor, Montjuic is a hill in Barcelona that is a popular tourist destination on the outskirts of the city.

Good for: Family trip, great views

Things to do in Montjuic:

Take a ride on the Montjuic Cable Car.
Admire gorgeous views of the city from the hilltop

Monjuic Day Trip

Costa Brava

146 km | 1.5 Hours

The Coastal city of Costa Brava is adorned with cobbled towns, calming mountain tops and beautiful beaches. Just North of Barcelona, Costa Brava is a hidden gem of the Catalonia Region.

Good for: Beaches

Things to do in Costa Brava:

Visit gorgeous beaches
Head to the Dali Musuem, La Garrotxa

Costa Brava Day Trip

Montserrat

377 km | 3.5 Hour

Nestled in the mountains and visited by the sea, Montserrat is an island that is perfect for a day trip from Barcelona. You have to take a drive up the mountain and then you will arrive at the main grounds of the city.

Good for: Mountain views

Things to do in Champagne:

Visit The Benedictine Abbey, The Montserrat Museum

Montserrat Day Trip

Sitges

35 km | 40 Km

Sitges is a popular coastal town in Catalonia, Spain bordered by the Garraf mountains and boasting a spectacular coastline.

Good for: Beaches

Things to do in Somme:

Visit Passeig Maritim
Head to Museu Cau Ferrat
Experience Local Seafood

Barcelona With Kids & Family

There are plenty of things for kids to do in Barcelona. Some of the best places to visit with children are the Barcelona Zoo and the Barcelona Aquarium.

Art & Culture in Barcelona

Barcelona has a wealth of art and culture to offer visitors. From world-famous museums like the Picasso Museum to landmark architectural attractions like the Sagrada Famila, Barcelona is home to unique art and culture.

Picasso Museum

Barcelona has dedicated an entire museum to Picasso’s artistic prowess, showcasing an extensive collection of his early years’ works.

from €12

Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona (MACBA)

MACBA houses Barcelona's main collection of contemporary art and its permanent exhibits focus on Catalan and Spanish artists.

from €11

Sagrada Familia

Designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, the Sagrada Familia is an architectural marvel that attracts more than 4.5 million visitors a year.

from €47

Casa Batlló

Also known as Casa dels Ossos, “House of Bones”, Casa Batlló ranks high up in the list of the strangest residential buildings in Europe.

from €35

Top 10 Barcelona Travel Tips

Barcelona has pleasant weather throughout the year and is especially peaceful to visit during the shoulder seasons - April to July and September to November.
Book your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on them and this helps you get great deals and discounts.
Boasting a well-connected network of 12 lines and over 160 stations, the Barcelona Metro is a convenient way of getting around the city.
The Aerobus, with two separate lines, is the fastest way to get to the city center once you land in Barcelona.
Barcelona is famous for its Spanish tapas. Tapas are small portions of food that are generally enjoyed with drinks.
On the first Sunday of every month, the entry fees of many museums like Picasso Museum, Natural History Museum are waived off.
Make your way to flea markets to find beautiful souvenirs that you can take home for a reasonable price.
Barcelona is synonymous with a dazzling nightlife scene. Arrive as early as possible because the clubs start charging higher entry fees as the night rolls on.
Skip the line tickets will save you a huge amount of time while exploring Barcelona.
Barcelona has lots of attractions that are situated at a short distance from each other so the best way to see them is to walk.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Barcelona

What can I do in Barcelona?

Visit iconic attractions like Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo, FC Barcelona Museum, head to beaches to watch a live Flamenco show.

What is the best time to visit Barcelona?

The best time to visit Barcelona is from May to June when balmy temperatures is mild and there are a range of summer events and festivals.

Is Barcelona too hot?

Barcelona can get a bit hot during the summer months but it is largely manageable weather.

If I have only one day in Barcelona, what are the must-see attractions?

La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo, La Rambla, Picasso Museum, FC Barcelona Museum. are the must-see attractions in Barcelona if you have only one day.

Are there places to see in Barcelona after dark?

Things to do in Barcelona at night include a night tour of Casa Mila, seeing a Flamenco show or taking a stroll on the beach.

Where are the best places to eat in Barcelona?

Viana Barcelona, RAO Restaurants, Dos Pebrots are some of the best places to eat in Barcelona.

What are the languages spoken in Barcelona?

Spanish and Catalan are the primary languages spoken in Barcelona.

What is the best way to get around Barcelona?

Using the metro, the bus or travelling by foot is the best way to get around Barcelona.

What are the live entertainment options in Barcelona?

Watch a live Flamenco show for a true Catalan experience in Barcelona.

What should I pack for Barcelona?

Barcelona can get sunny so pack hats and lots of suncreen. Loose, cotton clothing will serve you well in Barcelona.

What should I avoid in Barcelona?

Avoiding venturing out too late in the night alone because certain neighborhoods of Barcelona can have petty thieves and pickpockets.

Where can I stay in Barcelona?

There are various options for accommodations in Barcelona. You can stay in budget hotels, mid-range hotels, or luxury hotels. You can also opt for homely Airbnbs and cheap hostels.

What are some good day trips from Barcelona?

Sitges, Costa Brava, Girona are some good day trips from Barcelona.

What are the most popular tourist destinations in Barcelona?

Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona include Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, FC Barcelona Museum and many more.