I’ve been to Barcelona a bunch of times and yet this post took me months to pen. Being my favourite city in Europe, it’s hard to convey how great Barcelona is. It has beaches, mountains, great cocktails, good restaurants, culture, art, parks, rooftop bars, bubble tea- I discover something new every time I go back, and always look forward to the next visit.
There is an unending list of sights to see in BCN, but here are my top 10 activities and recommended restaurants, with some advice on what you need to book in advance to avoid disappointment. (see our full Sygic itinerary here).
Top Ten
Sagrada Familia: Gaudi’s cathedral which is still in construction nearly 100 years after being started. The most awe-inspiring building I’ve even witnessed, I recommend including a climb up the towers in your visit (NB Book here weeks in advance if you plan to go).
Park Guell (Buy tickets here): Gaudi’s playground, this sculpture park is a feast for the eyes and unmissable if you’re visiting BCN. It also offers good views over the city.
Tibidado: Perched atop a mountain overlooking the whole city, Tibidado is home to the church with the giant Jesus statue on top of it, quite similar to the one in Rio. This for me was the best view I’ve seen over Barcelona. You can get there by bus or car (if you’ve rented one like we did).
Gaudi’s houses: Casa Mila (Buy tix online and skip the queue), Casa Battlo (Buy tix online using these links to save time and skip the queus).
Barceloneta, the waterfront and beach area, is great for a lazy beach day sunbathing if you’re not up for much else. Stroll along Passeig Maritim and grab some seafood for lunch along the beachfront.
Parc de la Cuitadella (city park) – great for fresh air and a boat ride, if you fancy.
Mont Juic– stunning views over the city from a former fort. Get the cable car up for panoramic views. Head to the Magical Fountain nearby for a light and water show from 20.00/21.00 (times change by season so check the start times here for the month you’re visiting).
Free Walking tour: By chance, we stumbled upon the Runner Bean Walking tour starting from Placa Real just off La Rambla, and joined in. You get to see the core city centre, including the Gothic Quarter (pictured below) and Barcelona Cathedral. Was a great tour which runs every day at 11am and 16.30 (Summer) or 15.00 (Winter) – Check times and book online here.
Cuitat Vella: Rent a bike and head on this 9km cycle circuit around Barcelona. Click to view map.
Palau de la Música Catalana: Dubbed the most Instagram-able spot in Barcelona, Palau de la Música Catalana is an off the beaten Barcelona track UNESCO world heritage site and well worth a visit. A kaleidoscope of colour, this place is a fest for the eyes. If there are no performances on, head inside to check out the dramatic interior decoration too.
Eat & Drink
Brunch & Cake
Grab a bite to eat at Brunch and Cake, and thank me later. Eggs Benedict served on a black charcoal waffle served on a shovel, presentation is everything and B&C have nailed it. Possibly the best brunch I’ve ever had, wash it all down with a mimosa (or two;)). Book in advance to avoid a 30minute queue, and if you forget to book, you can take my word for it that it’s worth the wait. Check them out on Instagram here if you need further convincing!
Rooftop sunset views
Head to the Dulce Vitae rooftop bar to have a drink and watch the sunset. It’s not cheap, it’s in a 5* hotel, but €30-40 for a bottle of wine or cava, and a dj on the decks create an unforgettable sunset experience. Book a table in advance to avoid waiting- they give preference to hotel guests.
La Boqueria market
Boqueria is a food market with unlimited options, just off La Rambla.
Placa del Reial
A square off La Rambla filled with restaurants. Book Viana or Bodega Biarritz in advance through Trip Advisor for some delicious tapas.
Have you been to Barcelona? What were your highlights? Anything to add or questions to ask?
If you’re hoping to head on day trips outside of Barcelona, check out my list of recommended day trips here.
Highlights
