9 Amazing Things To Do In Barcelona Spain In 2023/24

Barcelona remains one of the most visited cities on the planet, and for good reason. With its special charm, there is so much to experience in this historic and beautiful Mediterranean city destination.

The list is endless of things to do and see is endless, from admiring architecture through to tasting an authentic paella. If art is your passion, then the MNAC is Catalonia’s national art museum with a complete overview of Catalan art from the 12^th to the 20^th centuries. It has art in many different forms from sculptures, paintings, decorative arts, and cinematic.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day, then why not trek over to the mountains. Everyone knows about the beaches in the city, but the mountains of Barcelona offer exceptional views, all brought to you at the top of the mountain after a funicular ride!

This list has barely scratched the surface of what’s on offer in Barcelona, but it gives you a great starting point to build out your vacation and experience all the beautiful sights and sounds the city has to offer.

Here is our list of the top 9 things your should do whilst in Barcelona.

5 Interesting Facts about Barcelona

With 4.5km of coastline and seven beaches, National Geographic consider Barcelona to be the best beach city in the world.
A quirky mix of Gothic and Modernist architecture, there isn’t a city in the world that offers the contrast of building styles you will find in Barcelona.
Sports fans have a choice of venues to visit in Barcelona. Camp Nou, where Barcelona FC play their home games is one of the most visited stadiums in the world and a tour is highly recommended.
The Olympic Stadium was first built for the 1929 International Expo and completely renovated when Barcelona hosted the premier sporting event in 1992.
La Rambla is probably the most famous street in Barcelona but it’s actually made up of 5 boulevards which have joined together to create one 2km long promenade. This is why you will often hear it referred to in its plural form of Las Ramblas.

1. Visit the Sagrada Familia Church

Sagrada Familia Church Barcelona — Sagrada Familia Church

The Sagrada Familia church is the most visited attraction in Spain, this is Gaudi’s most well-known masterpiece in the heart of the Catalan capital.

The compelling structure mesmerises its visitors with its sheer beauty and highly unique architecture, which is a combination of Gothic and modern.

Visitors to the Sagrada Familia are able to access different parts of the church including the museum, shop, nave, crypt and towers.

Opening hours for public visits are between 9am to 6pm during the winter months and until 8pm in the summer months.

Various guided and unguided tours are available along with audio-guided tours, discounts are available for groups and school parties.

2. Parc Guell

Parc Guell is another one of Gaudi’s unusual creations and is located in the northern part of the city. Sculptures, mosaics and tiling are all on show in this picturesque and leafy park. The park was cleverly built on land high above Barcelona which gives visitors superb views over the city.

Official website: https://parkguell.barcelona/

3. Stroll along the Las Ramblas Boulevard

Las Ramblas is one of the most famous streets in the city at just over one kilometer in length.

The famous walkway is lined with trees and has all kinds of shops, bars, restaurants, street performers and colorful local characters.

For a nice stroll in the heart of the city, this is the place to go to.

4. Explore the Gothic Quarter

Located in the old quarter of Barcelona, on the right-hand side of the Las Ramblas area, it is well known for its cobbled streets and high old buildings.

Picasso lived and worked in this area from 1895 to 1904, and famous local artist Joan Miro was born here, where he spent much of his youth.

5. Spend a day on Barceloneta Beach

It is the nearest beach to the city centre and around 15 minutes' walk from the Ramblas area.

This is the place for seafood lovers to enjoy some of the freshest fish and seafood dishes in Spain. ( Take the Yellow Line on the Metro )

6. Visit the Camp Nou Football Stadium

For all footy lovers, this is a must-visit. A regular home crowd of around 100.000 noisy fans makes this one of the biggest football stadiums in the world.

» Check Prices & Availability: Camp Nou and FC Barcelona Museum

7. Dine Out in Barcelona

Lasarte Restaurant Barcelona — Lasarte Restaurant

Dining options in Barcelona are second to none, as you will find just about every type of food you can imagine, from budget burgers to luxury seafood.

The city boasts around 20 Michelin-starred restaurants run by some of the most revered chefs in Europe.

Head down to the port area if you're looking for the freshest fish and seafood dishes; tapas are always a firm favourite; they are delicious, bite-sized selections of different types of food and the perfect way to try out a variety of food in one go.

Try the Bar Pinotxo at the famous indoor Boqueria food market for some of the best tapas in Barcelona.

8. Take part in one of Barcelona's famous festivals

La Merce Festival Barcelona — La Merce Festival

Filled with dozens of tourist attractions, Barcelona holidays are perfect any time of the year as you will always find something worth seeing or doing.

If you wish to immerse yourself in Spain’s culture, try taking part in one of the many incredible festivals in Barcelona.

9. Visit the incredible Casa Battlo

This was designed by Gaudi for a wealthy aristocrat and is often overlooked by travellers visiting the nearby La Pedresa ( another Gaudi treasure ).

Much of the house used to be rented out but is now, thankfully, a museum and is well worth a visit if you are in the area. What made Gaudi such an impressionable artist is that visiting some of his most famous works around the city may help you to understand this unusual and brilliant artist.

Official website https://www.casabatllo.es/en/

Barcelona Travel and Transport

After arriving at the El Prat International airport, you can choose to get around Barcelona in several ways.

There are many car hire offers to be had online for companies that have offices at the airport. Car hire offers a great amount of flexibility and freedom you need to have to experience an enjoyable holiday. You are free to explore what you want when you want, which is an excellent bonus for fitting your travel around your stay and not the other way round.

If you prefer another form of Barcelona transport because you may not be comfortable driving in a foreign country, there are plenty of other options for moving around, including a modern metro service, buses, trams, taxis, and even bike hire.

Recommended Hotels in Barcelona

1. Serras Barcelona — Gothic Quarter

Approx. price: €350–€500 per night (twin room) A boutique luxury hotel overlooking the waterfront, known for its refined design and personalised service. Highlights include exceptional service, a quiet yet central location, and a rooftop pool with views over the marina. This hotel is one of the most polished and intimate luxury stays in the city.

Check Availability

2. Mercer Hotel Barcelona — Gothic Quarter

Approx. price: €320–€600 per night (twin room). Set within ancient Roman walls, this hotel blends historic architecture with contemporary luxury. We loved the beautifully restored interiors, calm atmosphere, and attentive service. It was amazing to stay somewhere truly unique, with standout comfort and style.

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3. Hotel El Palace Barcelona — Eixample

Approx. price: €300–€650 per night (twin room) A grand, classic luxury hotel with elegant rooms and a renowned rooftop garden. We can only praise the old‑world charm, professional service, and excellent spa facilities. Highlights include the hotel’s ability to deliver a five‑star experience with warmth and character.

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Mid‑Range Hotels

4. H10 Madison — Gothic Quarter

Approx. price: €160–€350 per night (twin room) A stylish, modern hotel with a strong reputation for comfort and service. We loved the rooftop pool, central location, and spacious rooms. This hotel is consistently mentioned for its excellent value and the convenience of being a few steps from major sights.

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5. Hotel 1898 — La Rambla

Approx. price: €170–€330 per night (twin room). A former colonial building transformed into a polished hotel with a standout spa and rooftop terrace. Highlights include the indoor pool, historic charm, and excellent breakfast. The Hotel 1899 offers a warm, relaxing atmosphere and amenities at a fair price point.

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6. H10 Cubik — Eixample

Approx. price: €150–€270 per night (twin room). A contemporary design hotel known for its geometric interiors and bright, spacious rooms. We appreciated the friendly staff, comfy beds, and rooftop bar. The hotel felt modern and well‑maintained, with a strong sense of style.

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Budget‑Friendly Hotel

7. Andante Hotel — Raval / Near Port Vell

Approx. price: €90–€220 per night (twin room). A clean, efficient, and well‑reviewed budget option offering excellent value for money. Highlights include a nice rooftop pool, modern rooms, and reliable service. Was very happy with the hotel’s cleanliness and the convenience of being close to both the old town and the waterfront.