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Best Things to Do in Barcelona | Top Attractions, Best Museums & More

What are the Best Things to do in Barcelona?

Barcelona, the tempting, balmy Mediterranean city located in Spain is a beloved tourist destination. With year-round sunny days,  irresistible local cuisine and timeless art, Barcelona is one of the most vibrant places to experience on vacation. The list of the things to do in Barcelona is endless! Landmark architecture, iconic museums, galleries, beaches, shopping and a thriving nightlife make Barcelona a hub of all things fun, exciting and adventurous. Here is a definitive guide to the best things to do in Barcelona for every kind of tourist.

Top 15 Best Things to do in Barcelona

The island city of Barcelona is packed with activities and experiences that ensure an unforgettable vacation. Admire landmark buildings, visit museums and simply take in the elegant aesthetic of the city.

things to do in barcelona - sagrada familia
things to do in barcelona - park guell
things to do in barcelona - Casa Mila
things to do in barcelona - Casa Batlló
things to do in barcelona - casa vicens
things to do in Barcelona - Colònia Güell
things to do in barcelona - camp nou
things to do in barcelona - Poble Espanyol
things to do in barcelona - barcelona cathedral
things to do in Barcelona - Palau De La Musica Catalana
things to do in Barcelona barcelona zoo
things to do in barcelona - barcelona aquarium
best things to do in barcelona - moco museum
best things to do in barcelona - la rambla
best things to do in Barcelona - botanical garden

Explore the Best Museums in Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

From contemporary art museums to football museums, you'll always find the best things to do in Barcelona! Choose your pick from the top museums in Barcelona and enjoy learning a little more about the culture of the Catalonian capital.

things to do in barcelona - Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya
museums in Barcelona - FC Barcelona Museum
things to do in barcelona - Fundació Joan Miró
things to do in barcelona - Gaudi House Museum
things to do in barcelona - Picasso Museum
things to do in barcelona - Museu del Modernisme

Visit the Best Theme Parks in Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

Head out to Barcelona's delightful theme parks for a day of adventure and adrenaline-pumping fun! The theme parks offer some of the best things to do in Barcelona for all visitors!

things to do in barcelona - Tibidabo Amusement Park
things to do in barcelona - PortAventura Park
things to do in barcelona - ferrari land
things to do in barcelona - Barcelona Bosc Urbà
things to do in barcelona - illa fantasia
things to do in barcelona - Aquopolis Costa Dorada

Unwind at the Best Beaches in Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

Every beach has a distinct character - from the youthful Nova Icària to tranquil Caldetes and forever bustling Barceloneta, there's a beach in Barcelona for everyone.

things to do in barcelona - beaches

Barceloneta Beach

From drummers to sand-artists, this is Barcelona's most crowded and touristy stretch of sand, yet the most entertaining.

things to do in barcelona - beaches

Nova Icaria Beach

Located on Barcelona's central coast near the Olympic port, this is one of Barcelona's best beaches for watersports.

things to do in barcelona - beaches

Bogatell Beach

Considered one of Barcelona's safest beaches, head here if you're looking for a clean beach with a more tranquil vibe.

things to do in barcelona - beaches

Mar Bella Beach

This beach is famous for its nudist stretch, legendary rave-nights and a favorite hangout for Barcelona's LGBTQIA+ crowd.

things to do in barcelona - beaches

Sant Pol de Mar Beach

Located on Barcelona's northern coast, Sant Pol de Mar's clear and charming beach is a gorgeous spot for a day trip.

Try Watersports in Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

Beaches and Barcelona are synonymous! Aside from swimming in the blue waters, you can have so much fun experimenting with a range of water sports.

things to do in barcelona - flyboard
things to do in barcelona - paddle surfing
things to do in barcelona
things to do in barcelona - banana boat ride
things to do in barcelona - windsurfing

Romantic Things to do in Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

If you're in the city with your partner, here are some of the most romantic things to do in Barcelona for an unforgettable trip!

best things to do in barcelona - montjuic

The Magical Fountain at Montjuic

best things to do in barcelona - park guell

An Evening Visit to Parc Guell

best things to do in barcelona - palau de la musica catalana

A Concert at Palau de la Musica Catalana

best things to do in barcelona - casa mila

Take the Casa Mila Night Tour

best things to do in barcelona - air balloon

Air Balloon at Sunset

Fun Things to do in Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

Aside from visiting museums, landmark buildings and lounging at beaches, Barcelona has a host of fun, offbeat things to do. Here are some really fun things to do in Barcelona!

things to do in barcelona flamenco

Take a Flamenco Dancing Lesson

Learn to dance like a pro by taking a Flamenco dance lesson. You could also attend a Flamenco show and watch dancers mesmerize you with their moves!

things to do in barcelona

Play Beach Volleyball at Playa de la Nova Icària

Considered one of the most peaceful beaches in Barcelona, Nova Icària Beach is well-known for beach volleyball.

things to do in barcelona - romantic sunset cruise

Go on a Romantic Cruise

Together with your loved one, enjoy the setting sun over the Mediterranean Sea with the sky awash with vivid hues on a romantic sunset cruise.

things to do in barcelona - bungee jumping

Go Bungee Jumping

Bungee jumping is a popular adventure sport in Spain and when in Barcelona you must try it out!

things to do in barcelona - football match
things to do in barcelona - pub crawl

Go on a Pub Crawl

Ideal for solo travelers or a group of friends, a pub crawl is the perfect way to acquaint yourself with city streets and the best nightlife Barcelona has to offer.

things to do in barcelona - las golondrinas

Take a Las Golondrinas Boat Trip

Get on Barcelona’s premier luxury boats and enjoy an exquisite cruise and sightseeing experience.

things to do in barcelona - helicopter

Helicopter Tour Over Barcelona's Coastline

Witness breathtaking views of Barcelona on this unique helicopter tour that is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Cool Things to do in Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

Find some incredibly cool things to do in Barcelona for a unique, one-of-a-kind experience in this magical city!

best things to do in barcelona - sailing cruise

Take a private sailing tour

best things to do in barcelona - sala gimbernet

Visit Sala Gimbernat

best things to do in barcelona - Bunkers of Carmel

Enjoy views at Bunkers of Carmel

best things to do in barcelona - parc

Explore Parc del Laberint d’Horta

best things to do in barcelona

Go Vintage Shopping

Discover Nature in Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

Reconnect with nature and explore tranquil landscapes in nature for a rejuvenating experience in Barcelona. Discovering nature is truly one of the best things to do in Barcelona!

things to do in barcelona montserrat

Montserrat Monastery Tour & Hiking Off the Beaten Path

things to do in barcelona - rural catalonia

Rural Catalonia Hiking Tour

things to do in barcelona

Medieval Villages and La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Hiking Tour

things to do in barcelona

Hiking Trails and Tossa de Mar Tour in Costa Brava

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Vall de Núria Pyrenees Hiking Tour

Food & Drink Experiences in Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

Experience the delicious cuisine of Barcelona and its flavorful drinks through all these exciting experiences centered around food!

things to do in barcelona - flamenco show

Flamenco Show with Dinner

things to do in barcelona - montserrat

Montserrat Walking Tour with Wine and Tapas

things to do in barcelona

El Penedès Hike & Wines Tour

things to do in barcelona - camp nou

Camp Nou Guided Tour with Brunch

Best Things to do in Barcelona with Kids

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

Whether you wish to participate in a cooking class with the kids or visit a museum to teach kids a bit of history, there's a lot to do in Barcelona on your family vacation.

things to do in barcelona-barcelona aquarium

Barcelona Aquarium

things to do in barcelona-barcelona zoo

Explore Barcelona Zoo

things to do in barcelona - theme park

Enjoy Theme Parks

things to do in barcelona - montjuic cable car

Montjuic Cable Car

things to do in barcelona - museums

Visit Museums

Best City Tours in Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

Like the company of a local guide narrating interesting stories about the city as your tour Barcelona? These city tours are just what you need. We especially love guided culinary tours in Barcelona - exploring the local guides with an expert is simply terrific!

things to do in barcelona-hoho
things to do in barcelona - 360 degree tour
walking tour
things to do in barcelona - sunset sailing tour

Things to do in Barcelona on a Budget

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

Europe is famous for its shoestring travel destinations and Barcelona tops the list. If you're looking for a bunch of things to do in Barcelona for free or less than 20 euros, here's what you can add to your itinerary.

things to do in barcelona la boqueria

Explore La Boqueria

La Boqueria is Barcelona's oldest market and has over 200 stands. Take in the sights and smells at this traditional market for absolutely no cost. While there are food stalls and stands selling a variety of things, you don't need to purchase anything to experience this destination.

things to do in barcelona

Visit Parc del Laberint d’Horta

This intriguing park in Barcelona is a literal maze for you to navigate. This Cypress maze is filled with Greek statues and this unique experience has an admission price lower than €3. Walk around and explore it to your heart's content.

things to do in Barcelona

Admire Street Art

Walking around the streets of Barcelona is an experience like no other. The vibrant, exquisite street art across the city is a sight to behold at absolutely no cost!

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Stroll Through the Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter, located at the heart of the old city, is one of the most strikingly beautiful parts of Barcelona. Cobbled stones and buildings that date back to the Medieval period, a walk down the Gothic Quarter will transport you to another time and place. There are no entry charges.

things to do in barcelona la rambla

Walk Through La Rambla

La Rambla is one of the most famous streets in Barcelona with old-school florists, gelaterías, and candy stalls. Take a leisurely walk through this area and find something delicious to eat along the way.

Go on a Day Trip from Barcelona

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

After you've had your heart's fill of Barcelona's beaches, sunshine and Gaudi's wonders, step out of the city and visit one of the many nearby towns. We strongly recommend taking a day trip if you're staying in Barcelona for more than 3 days.

Girona

Girona

An hour’s drive (approx. 100 km) or a 40-minute train ride from Barcelona, Girona is a medieval town settled on the banks of River Onyar.

Costa Brava

Costa Brava

The coastal city of Costa Brava is adorned with cobbled towns, calming mountain tops and beautiful beaches.

Montserrat

Montserrat

Nestled in the mountains and visited by the sea, Montserrat is an island that is perfect for a day trip from Barcelona.

Sitges

Sitges

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

Things to do in Barcelona at Night

#Best Things to do in Barcelona

The magical city of Barcelona transforms into something truly unique and beautiful once the sun sets. Experiencing Barcelona by night is surreal and breathtaking. Here are some exciting things to do in Barcelona in the night.

things to do in barcelona - casa mila

Experience Casa Mila at Night

Visiting Casa Mila at a night is a beautiful experience. Get a chance to observe the intricacies of this monument in the moonlight and enjoy magnificent views of the city from the rooftop.

things to do in barcelona

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

Watch the magic fountain of Montjuïc light up in the night with a colourful show. The fountain is situated below the Palau Nacional on the Montjuïc mountain and near the Plaça d'Espanya and Poble Espanyol de Barcelona.

things to do in barcelona

Take a Paella Cooking Class

Dabble in preparing this traditional Spanish dish in an exciting Paella class in the evening. Learn to cook and get a chance to experience Barcelona's restaurants by night.

things to do in Barcelona

Go on a Romantic Sunset Cruise

Take your loved one and head out into the waters for a romantic sunset cruise. Watch the colors of the sky change into dazzling hues as you drift on calming waters in Barcelona.

things to do in barcelona

Watch a Live Flamenco Show

Find yourself enthralled by energetic performances as you watch a live Flamenco show at night in Barcelona. Nothing defines Barcelona like a lively Flamenco show!

Top Experiences in Barcelona

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Things to do in Barcelona

What is Barcelona known for?

Barcelona is known for its architecture, museums, lively nightlife and gorgeous beaches.

What are the best things to do in Barcelona?

Some of the best things to do in Barcelona include visiting La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Battlo, Picasso Museum and many more attractions.

What are the best things to do in Barcelona with no?

You walk through the Gothic quarter, admire street art, visit La Rambla and lots more in Barcelona.

Are beaches free in Barcelona?

Yes, visiting beaches are free in Barcelona.

What are the best things to do in Barcelona for families?

Visiting theme parks, museums, zoos and aquariums are some of the best things to do in Barcelona for families.

Is it expensive in Barcelona?

If you plan your trip well and make your bookings online and in advance you can have a budget-friendly visit to Barcelona and enjoy all the major tourist attractions.

What are the best theme parks to visit in Barcelona?

Tibidabo Amusement Park, PortAventura Park are some of the best theme parks in Barcelona.

What are the best day trips from Barcelona?

Take a day trip to Girona, Costa Brava or Sitges that are located at a short distance from Barcelona.

What are the best museums to visit in Barcelona?

Picasso Musuem, FC Barcelona Museum, Fundació Joan Miró are some of the best museums in Barcelona.

What are the best things to do in Barcelona at night?

Watch a flamenco show, experience Casa Mila by night or take a paella cooking class. There is lots for you to explore in Barcelona at night.

What are the best city tours in Barcelona?

You can choose to explore Barcelona through a walking tour, get on a hop-on hop-off bus or taking a sailing cruise in the evening!

What are the best things to do in Barcelona on a budget?

There's lots you can do on a budget in Barcelona. You can walk through the Gothic quarter, admire street art, visit La Rambla and lots more in Barcelona.

What are the best things to do in Barcelona with kids?

Take your little ones to one of Barcelona's many theme parks, or on a cable ride. You can also explore museums, zoos and aquariums with your children in Barcelona.