This cultural hub is full of fantastical architecture and soul-warming gastronomy.
Barcelona dazzles with its iconic architecture, from the many fantastical creations of Gaudí — including his tour de force, La Sagrada Familia — to the marvelously preserved medieval buildings of the Gothic Quarter. World-class museums give art aficionados plenty to explore, and foodies can dive in to the city’s gloriously diverse gastronomic scene. Miles of sandy coastline offer an urban beach escape, while breezy hotel rooftop terraces are ideal for savoring a sunset with a cocktail in hand. Whatever your trip goals, you’ll never run out of things to do.
Explore Barcelona
- Eixample
- Gothic Quarter
- El Born
- Barceloneta
- Montjuïc
Eixample
Overview
Home to a trio of Gaudí masterpieces — La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló and La Pedrera — the Eixample is arguably the city’s most famous sightseeing district. Leading from Plaça de Catalunya, a fountain-filled plaza that’s considered the heart of the city, is the elegant, tree-lined boulevard Passeig de Gràcia, where tony shops occupy the ground floors of gorgeous Art Nouveau buildings.
Known For
Sightseeing, Landmarks, Shopping
Gothic Quarter
Overview
With its narrow cobblestone lanes, medieval architecture, centuries-old churches and Roman-era ruins, the Gothic Quarter could feel like an ancient time capsule, but all the modern shops and lively restaurants and bars plant it firmly in the 21st century. It’s bordered by the bustling Las Ramblas — Barcelona’s famous pedestrian thoroughfare — where you’ll also find one of the world’s best-known markets, La Boquería.
Known For
Churches, Landmarks, Dining, Nightlife
El Born
Overview
Buzzing with cool bars and chic boutiques, El Born is the hipper cousin to the neighboring Gothic Quarter. But there’s still plenty of history to be found here, from medieval churches to architectural jewels, while top-notch museums are tucked inside grand centuries-old palaces.
Known For
Museums, Landmarks, Nightlife, Shopping
Barceloneta
Overview
Barcelona is blessed with miles of golden sandy coastline, and some of its most popular beaches are just a short walk from the city center, in Barceloneta. Stroll along the seaside promenade to find your perfect stretch of sand, and cool off with a dip in the calm Mediterranean waters. After a day at the beach, head inland to the former fishermen’s district for sublime seafood at one of its many traditional restaurants. To end the day, there are plenty of spots for a sunset cocktail (like the iconic W Barcelona).
Known For
Beaches, Dining
Montjuïc
Overview
On the southwestern edge of the city center rises Montjuïc, whose trails provide a wonderful refuge from Barcelona’s bustling streets. Wind through forests, manicured gardens, lily-filled ponds and flowing fountains in the span of an afternoon. You’ll also find a number of important cultural treasures nestled all across the mountain, including a historic hilltop castle and several of the city’s top museums.
Known For
Historical Sites, Museums, Nature
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Barcelona, Spain
Visit Gaudí’s Masterpieces
Spend the day in the architecturally rich Eixample, home to several of the city’s most famous sites, including a trio of Gaudí landmarks: La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló and La Pedrera. Dine on delicious Spanish cuisine in a converted 19th-century factory, and get your shopping fix on Passeig de Gràcia, an elegant boulevard lined with designer boutiques.
Delve into Ancient History
Start on Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s iconic pedestrian thoroughfare, and make a pilgrimage to the world-famous market La Boquería. Get lost in the tangle of medieval streets in the city’s Gothic Quarter, where you can also spot relics of Barcelona’s ancient Roman past. End the day in the historic El Born district, where great museums and fabulous tapas bars abound.
Travel from Sea to Mountain
Begin the day’s adventure at the urban beaches of Barceloneta, with a dip in the Mediterranean or a stroll along the seaside promenade. After a traditional Sunday lunch of paella, hop the cable car from the port for an exhilarating ride to Montjuïc mountain, and discover its many cultural attractions. Finish with a beachfront dinner and cocktails with panoramic city views at the W Barcelona.