The Best of Barcelona: 7 Things You Absolutely Must Do When Visiting
Are you considering visiting Barcelona?
Great! If you're not already, you need to add this amazing and diverse city to your list. Barcelona is known for its colorful architecture, vibrant city street life, and to-die-for cuisine.
But where should you even begin to plan your visit?
Don't worry for another second because we've got you covered! We've put together a list of the 7 things you absolutely have to do when visiting.
From sights to experiences to street eats, we've got you covered with the best of Barcelona.
Let's go!
1. La Boqueria
Calling all foodies!
If you came to Barcelona with the expectation to feast on Spanish delicacies, the Boqueria Market is just for you.
Having opened in 1840, the Boqueria Market is Barcelona's first local market. Upon entry to this covered marketplace, you're greeted with enticing aromas and vibrant colors of local vendors.
At this market, you can find everything from fresh fruit juice, wine, meat, produce and desserts. This market also has several bars and restaurants woven throughout the facility. You'll have plenty of time to try some Spanish specialties.
Make sure to try the Jamon Iberico, manchego cheese and salted cod (bacalao).
2. Las Ramblas
If you've been researching what to do in Barcelona, Las Ramblas has probably been at the top of each list. If you're wanting a touristy experience in Barcelona, Las Ramblas is for you.
Think of Las Ramblas as the Times Square of Barcelona. This pedestrian-friendly walkway is in the middle of the city, so even if you didn't plan on going there, you'll most likely end up there at some point.
This pathway is peppered with local artists, street performers, souvenir stands, restaurants and so much more. This walkway is constantly bustling, night and day so you'll have something to do at almost anytime.
Because this walkway is touristy, be wary of pickpockets and overpriced food and souvenirs.
3. The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic)
If you wanted to see the oldest part of Barcelona, you'll want to head on over to the Gothic Quarter. The Gothic Quarter considered to be Barcelona's most famous landmark.
The quarter is located smack-dab in the middle of the city, so it's difficult to miss.
Spanning from Las Ramblas to Via Laietana, and from the Mediterranean sea to the Ronda de Sant Pere, this quarter takes up a magnificent amount of the city.
With it's labyrinth style streets and almost complete absence of traffic, you'll happen upon several cathedrals and important buildings. You can find the Gothic Cathedral, Church of Santa Maria del Pi, Sant Jaume Square and tons more.
If you're a history buff, the Gothic Quarter is where you should start your Barcelona Adventure.
4. La Gracia
Maybe you're not feeling super touristy and want to experience Barcelona like a local?
If so, La Gracia is the place for you. This quiet neighborhood is ideal for those who are overwhelmed by large crowds.
In La Gracia, you'll experience narrow streets that are walkable and often uncrowded. Because of how narrow the streets are, tour buses aren't able to travel down this area.
La Gracia is the "trendy" and "hipster" area of Barcelona with its boutiques, mom-and-pop restaurants and overarching atmosphere of creativity.
Stroll down La Gracia for some amazing cuisine, alternative art and a peaceful afternoon.
5. Carrer de Les Aigues
Maybe you're wanting to escape the touristy atmosphere of Las Ramblas and take a chance on the wild side.
Well, put on your walking shoes and head on over to Collserola National Park, home to Carrer de Les Aigues.
The Carrer de Les Aigues is a trail ideal for families, cyclists, dog walkers and anyone with a deep appreciation for nature and breathtaking views. This 9km path consists of flat terrain, making it perfect for all ages.
You can also rent a bike at the park. It takes about an hour and a half to cover the entire trail, but we promise you won't regret a single minute.
6. Bunkers del Carmel
Any adventure of a new city wouldn't be complete without a stellar viewpoint.
In 1938, during the Spanish Civil War, the bunkers were built as anti-aircraft defenses. These bunkers were placed on the hill of Turo de la Rovira so that they could have a complete aerial view of the city.
After the war ended, the guns were removed but the view was too beautiful to pass up. As time went on, word of the beautiful lookout traveled and more and more visitors came to view the spot.
This site now regularly sees visitors but is still secluded enough that it's still enjoyable. Head up this hill to find spectacular views of the bustling city of Barcelona.
7. Anything Gaudi
It's almost impossible for you to visit Barcelona without seeing any of Antoni Gaudi's architectural works.
Gaudi's works are one-of-a-kind in their playful characteristics. Gaudi's main influences that can be sensed through his works were architecture, nature, and religion.
You can see these influences in his stained glass, architecture woven throughout both nature and the city. Be sure to check out Gaudi's most popular church La Sagrada Familia.
Park Guell, Palau Guell, Colonia Guell and Finca Guell are also great to visit during your trip. When in Barcelona, make sure to check out any work by Gaudi to further appreciate Barcelona history.
The Best in Barcelona
There you have it!
A list of seven top places and things to visit in Barcelona. In order to discover the best of Barcelona, start off with any of the places listed here.
On every corner and every street, it's easy to find food and sights that'll knock your socks off. In Barcelona, it's difficult to not be immersed in a rich and vibrant history.
As soon as you stop off the plane, make sure to taken in every sight and smell that Barcelona offers you. But if you're planning a trip to Barcelona and still looking for cool things to do, feel free to let us know.
Reach out and get in contact with us. We'd love to show you some other hidden jewels in Barcelona.