Barcelona is a vibrant city in Catalonia Spain and one of my favourites to visit. Every time we visit Barcelona we like to try to find at least one new place! It is like stepping into a living masterpiece where history, art, and culture converge with everything from food markets to thousands of years of history at your feet. Finding Things to do in Barcelona is not that hard, as you will find there is so much on offer. You can explore the enchanting labyrinth of streets of the Gothic Quarter or the sun-kissed shores of Barceloneta Beach.<\/strong><\/p>\n I personally love the wonder of Gaud\u00ed\u2019s architectural wonders, from the iconic Sagrada Fam\u00edlia<\/strong> to the Park G\u00fcell<\/strong>. Strolling around the bustling markets like La Boqueria, or the street market of Palo Alto are always top on my list. We visit Barcelona for weekends and regularly stop by whilst we are dropping in from a cruise port on driving past in our motor home.<\/p>\n Whats In This Post? Click Here<\/p>\n Toggle<\/span> Whether you are visiting Barcelona<\/a> from your cruise ship in Barcelona port <\/a> or spending a few days or a week here, this is everything you need to know about exploring the wonderful city of Barcelona. So Grab a map, and let\u2019s discover Barcelona\u2019s endless charms<\/strong>. Keep on reading as I show you everything that I love about Barcelonas and it\u2019s top attractions as well as some hidden gems<\/strong>.<\/p>\n I could be compensated, if you click on a link in this post via a cash payment, gift or something else of value for writing this post. See our full disclosure policy and privacy policy<\/a> for more details.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n See these recommendations for Hotels in the Area<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n One of the best things about Barcelona<\/strong> is the fact that you can explore the area by yourself<\/strong>. There are endless museums, attractions and many restaurants to visit. Take a look at our things to do in Barcelona city with hidden gems to find and explore. Barcelona is easy to explore on foot or by the metro or bus. <\/p>\n One of the most renowned and awe-inspiring works crafted by Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi is the Sagrada Familia cathedral<\/a>. It is realy what everyone comes to see and I can still remember when I first saw it! <\/p>\n Its construction commenced in 1882 and remarkably, even after all these years, it remains unfinished. It is hoped to achieve completion by 2026, coinciding with the centenary of Gaudi\u2019s passing.<\/p>\n Both the outer facade and inner sanctum of the cathedral are nothing short of breathtaking, eloquently showcasing Gaudi\u2019s distinctive architectural flair. To gain access to the Sagrada Familia\u2019s interior, procuring tickets is a necessity. However, we strongly advise securing your tickets well in advance. Acquiring them on the day of your visit can prove to be extremely challenging,<\/strong> especially if you want to go up the tower.<\/p>\n Another iconic architectural gem by Gaudi in Barcelona<\/strong> that holds immense appeal for tourists is Park G\u00fcell.<\/strong> The park boasts several captivating and distinct elements, most notably the main terrace, terrace walls, columned pathways, and adorned mosaics. While Gaudi didn\u2019t directly build the residences within the park, it\u2019s noteworthy that he resided in one of them. This house has since been transformed into a Gaudi museum.<\/a><\/p>\n Just like the Sagrada Familia, gaining entry into the central precinct of Park G\u00fcell requires a ticket. You will not be able to purchase on the day. If you can not get a ticket it is still worth the visit to the Gardens around it, which are still accessible. Without a ticket, you will not get into the walled area as seen in the photo above.<\/p>\n It\u2019s worth noting that Park G\u00fcell is situated a considerable distance away from other prominent Barcelona attractions. It is also a very steep uphill walk so you may want to take a taxi. You can also access it via a hop-on-hop-off bus, which offers a scenic way to explore the city.<\/p>\n La Rambla<\/strong> is one of Barcelona\u2019s most famous streets, it is filled with restaurants, bars ,souvenir shops, and pubs. It here you will find a busy bustling tourist area with lots going on such as street performers and sellers. You are a sitting target for food here so it may not be the cheapest. Consider popping around the back streets for some tapas where you will find it a bit cheaper. <\/p>\n La Rambla stretches for just under a mile long and you can walk the entire road of La Rambla in 30 minutes. Bear in mind it is a target place for pickpockets so hold on to your bag and keep your wits about you.<\/p>\n Along La Rambla is a market called La Boqueria<\/strong>. We did\u2019t visit this market untill a few years ago and we were amazed! The Market is filled with stalls selling fruit, meat, and delicious Spanish food. You couls easily eat your way around the market all day! The cultural atmosphere in La Boqueria bring Barcelona alive and it is filled with local\u2019s getting their every day essentials.<\/p>\n Yes Barcelona has a beach! Barceloneta Beach with its long promenade provides visitors with 2.5 miles of sand and sea, making it a popular spot for families visiting Barcelona. With bars, restaurants, and cafes lining the beach, Barceloneta Beach is a great spot for lunch. There is so much to do and many places to grab an ice-cream. It is easy to spend an hour or two here sunbathing here and relaxing.<\/p>\n Every time I talk about Barcelona I tell people about the fantastic Sant Pau Museum! The Sant Pau Art Deco Museum Hospital<\/strong> is an amazing building that fuses art, architecture, and history. This captivating institution, once a working hospital, now serves as a museum that pays homage to the Art Deco<\/strong> movement while preserving its medical heritage. The hospital\u2019s meticulously preserved interiors boast intricate details, elegant curves, and stunning mosaics.<\/p>\n Visitors are transported to the glamorous era of 20th-century Art Deco with its amazing interiors. As you explore its corridors and chambers, you\u2019ll be immersed in another time zone where you will see the hospital\u2019s past.<\/p>\n The museum\u2019s exhibits and displays showcase the evolution of medicine and design incorporated. Visiting the Sant Pau Art Deco Museum Hospital is is a must do experience when in Barcelona.<\/p>\n The Gothic Quarter (Barri G\u00f2tic in Catalan) <\/strong>is situated in the heart of Barcelona, Spain. It encompasses the area between La Rambla and Via Laietana. It stretches from Pla\u00e7a de Catalunya to the Mediterranean Sea. This historic district is known for its medieval architecture, narrow winding streets, and a rich cultural and architectural heritage. The Gothic Quarter is mainly a pedestrian-only area with narrow streets amongst five-story buildings. <\/p>\n Here is what you can expect to find in the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona:<\/p>\n An essential Gaud\u00ed marvel to explore is Casa Batll\u00f3, an epitome of the architect\u2019s most iconic creations. In 1900, Josep Batll\u00f3 acquired the property and entrusted Gaud\u00ed<\/b> <\/strong>with carte blanche for its design a few years later. Josep\u2019s vision was unequivocal: he sought a residence distinctively unparalleled in the city\u2019s landscape. Gaudi, without a doubt, brought that vision to life.<\/p>\n Characterised by its irregular oval windows, intricate stonework, mosaic embellishments, and a rooftop reminiscent of a dragon\u2019s back, Casa Batll\u00f3 stands as an unequivocal masterpiece. Much like numerous other Gaud\u00ed marvels, Batll\u00f3 proudly holds the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.<\/p>\n The Barcelona Cathedral<\/strong>, a magnificent embodiment of Gothic grandeur. Standing as a timeless testament to the city\u2019s rich history and architectural prowess. Located in the heart of Barcelona\u2019s charming Gothic Quarter, this awe-inspiring cathedral beckons visitors with its intricate fa\u00e7ade, soaring spires, and captivating sculptures.<\/p>\n Stepping into its hallowed halls is like entering a sacred realm where sunlight filters through majestic stained glass windows. Not only can you explore the cloisters with its gaggle of geese but you can also climb up to the roof for amazing views of the city.<\/strong><\/p>\n Step beneath the streets of Barcelona and walk through the remains of\u00a0Barcino<\/strong>, the Roman city that once stood here. Beneath Casa Padell\u00e0s at the MUHBA, you can wander along ancient streets, see sections of the Roman city walls and discover workshops, laundries and other everyday spaces dating back almost 2,000 years. It is an incredible experience to stand where people lived and worked centuries ago and see Barcelona\u2019s Roman history preserved beneath the modern city.<\/p>\n One of the best places to visit is the\u00a0Palau de la M\u00fasica Catalana<\/strong>\u00a0in Barcelona is a must for anyone who loves beautiful architecture, history and a touch of grandeur. This stunning Modernista concert hall, designed by architect Llu\u00eds Dom\u00e8nech i Montaner, is filled with colourful mosaics, intricate ironwork, stained glass and incredible decorative details. The highlight is the spectacular concert hall, where a huge stained-glass skylight floods the space with natural light, creating an almost magical atmosphere. Whether you visit for a guided tour or to see a concert, it is one of Barcelona\u2019s most beautiful and fascinating hidden gems and a wonderful place to appreciate Catalan Modernisme.<\/p>\n Casa Mil\u00e0, also known as La Pedrera (which translates to \u201cThe Quarry\u201d in English), is a renowned modernist building in Barcelona. It was designed by the famed architect Antoni Gaud\u00ed and it is considered one of Gaud\u00ed\u2019s most distinctive creations.<\/p>\n Built between 1906 and 1912, Casa Mil\u00e0 was commissioned by Pere Mil\u00e0, a businessman, as a combined apartment and commercial building. Gaud\u00ed\u2019s design for Casa Mil\u00e0 is characterized by its organic forms, undulating fa\u00e7ade, and innovative structural techniques. The building lacks traditional straight lines, and its exterior is adorned with intricate wrought-iron balconies and unique stone carvings.<\/p>\n One of the most notable features of Casa Mil\u00e0 is its rooftop,<\/strong> which is a masterpiece of sculptural design. The building\u2019s interior is equally remarkable, featuring curved walls, creative use of space, and a central courtyard that provides natural light to the apartments.<\/p>\n Today, Casa Mil\u00e0 serves as a cultural centre and museum, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its unique architecture. You will Learn about Gaud\u00ed\u2019s innovative concepts, and gain insights into early 20th-century Barcelona when you explore this stunning building.<\/p>\n The Case Mila is just a short walk from the Casa Batllo. So you can visit two Gaudi sites at the same time. It is also advisable to book tickets in advance.<\/p>\n The Montjuic Fountain is Spectacular show of light, music and water. Initially constructed for the 1929 World Fair, the Montju\u00efc Magic Fountain orchestrates a captivating spectacle of vibrant hues, shimmering illuminations, and cascading water. With grand total of 3,620 jets and an impressive capability to conjure a staggering 7 billion combinations. This magic fountain stands as an extraordinary cost-free attraction within the city of Barcelona.<\/p>\n The hours and times of the fountain varies depends on the time of the year. During the summer season which is June to September, the magic fountain shows take place from Wednesday to Sunday. The rest of the year it is just on Thursday to Saturday. There are generally two shows a night that last about 15-20 minutes. Check out the show times here for more information.<\/a><\/p>\n There are plenty of ways to get around Barcelona from hop on hop off buses<\/strong>, local buses<\/strong> and trams<\/strong> but it all is by bike. Hiring a bike<\/strong> will make it a fun way see and learn all about Barcelona and its iconic landmarks. You even take a fun Segway<\/strong> around the city too. You can find Bike tours with English speaking guides that will take you all around Barcelona allowing you to see all of the city\u2019s attractions in one go.<\/p>\n Picasso is one of the world\u2019s most famous painters. And although he is known for his colourful abstract art, the Picasso Museum<\/a> is actually home to some of his early realism pieces that he painted when he was just a teenager. The museum takes you on a journey through Picasso\u2019s career, from his formative years to his revolutionary contributions to modern art. With a diverse collection spanning paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and sketches, visitors have the privilege of tracing the maestro\u2019s creative trajectory.<\/p>\n The Picasso Museum not only showcases the artist\u2019s profound impact on the art world but also provides a unique window into the vibrant cultural landscape of Barcelona during Picasso\u2019s time. <\/p>\n One of the best ways to see the city of Barcelona from afar is from the hilltops. You can take a cable car to\u00a0Montju\u00efc castle<\/a> from the port if you feel adventurous you can walk up in about 40 minutes. This takes you 270 feet up the hillside, the cable car offers panoramic views of the entire Barcelona region. There is a second cable car<\/strong> that takes you up to the castle itself too. You\u2019ll also see iconic landmarks from afar like the Sagrada Familia and the port where you will the sweeping port.\u00a0<\/p>\n The Montju\u00efc Castle<\/a> is a fortress on top of Montju\u00efc Hill <\/strong>with amazing views of the port. Dating back to the 17th century, the castle once played a significant role in Barcelona\u2019s history. Now, however, it offers a glimpse into the city\u2019s military heritage.\u00a0<\/p>\n Aside from witnessing the beauty of the castle, climbing up Montju\u00efc Hill offers truly spectacular views of Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea. The walk to the top should take you around 30 minutes or catch one or both of the cable cars. Buses also go to the top of the hill as well.<\/p>\n Barcelona\u2019s culinary scene <\/strong>is a blend of traditional Spanish flavour\u2019s and modern gastronomic innovations. One must-try dish is \u201ctapas,\u201d a quintessential Spanish tradition where you can savor a variety of small plates, each with distinct flavours. From Spanish\u00a0tortilla, patatas bravas, meatballs and calamares fritos, there are so many tapas options to try. Don\u2019t miss the chance to indulge in \u201cpaella,\u201d a rice dish often prepared with seafood or other ingredients, offering a taste of Spain.<\/p>\n Venturing into the charming backstreets, you\u2019ll stumble upon \u201cpintxos\u201d bars<\/strong>, offering a Catalan take on tapas. These delectable morsels, often skewered with toothpicks, are an ideal way to sample a medley of flavors while mingling with locals.<\/p>\n If shopping is what you fancy head to Passeig de Gracia. With shops from some of the most well-known designer labels to smaller boutiques the Passeig de Gracia is perfect for shopaholics.<\/a><\/p>\n Passing de Gracia also has beautiful architecture and plenty of cafes and restaurants to frequent. There are also many roof-top bars in Barcelona<\/a> to explore, so there is plenty to keep you entertained!<\/p>\n The Palo Alto market in Barcelona is s fun market on the outskirts of the city. The market is situated in he Poblenou area of Barcelona and is held the first weekend of every month Depending on the weather. <\/p>\n Palo Alto\u00a0market is like a craft and street food market with and beer tents and music. The area was once a factory but now houses live bands, artisan stalls. The Palo Alto market costs around \u20ac5 to enter and tickets can be purchased on the door. The queue is well worth the wait though to enjoy a cool beer in the sunshine. There are also vintage stalls with homeware, clothes annd handmade jewellery. To get to the Market you take the metro out of Barcelona to the Selva De Mar stop. From there it is then just a 10 minute walk.<\/p>\n One of my favourite places to stay in Barcelona is\u00a0Barcelona Hotel Colonial<\/a>\u00a0with amazing views of the city and close to the Gothic Centre.<\/p>\n![\"Casa](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Casa-Padellas.jpg\")
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Arrange Your Trip<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
Everything you need to know about the Best Things to Do Barcelona Spain<\/h2>\n
![\"Water](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/IMG_2845.jpeg\")
Visit Sagrada Fam\u00edlia<\/h2>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Basilica-de-la-Sagrada-Familia.jpg\")
Take a Walk up to Park G\u00fcell<\/h2>\n
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Stroll Along La Rambla<\/h2>\n
![\"Las](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Las-Ramblas-Barcelona-.jpg\")
Experience the Vibrant Atmosphere of La Boqueria Market in La Rambla<\/h2>\n
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Relax on the Beach at Barceloneta<\/h2>\n
![\"Barcelonata](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/IMG_5141.jpeg\")
Explore the Sant Pau Art Deco Museum Hospital <\/h2>\n
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Stroll Through the Gothic Quarter<\/h2>\n
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![\"Pla\u00e7a](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/IMG_2793.jpg\")
Marvel at Casa Batll\u00f3<\/h2>\n
![\"Casa](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/IMG_8161.jpg\")
Climb to the Top of Barcelona\u2019s Cathedral<\/h2>\n
![\"View](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/IMG_5264.jpeg\")
Walk through Roman ruins at the Casa Padell\u00e0s (Barcelona History Museum MUHBA)<\/h2>\n
![\"Walk](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Walk-through-Roman-ruins-at-the-Casa-Padellas-Barcelona-History-Museum-MUHBA.jpg\")
Take a Tour of Palau de la M\u00fasica Catalana<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
![\"thw](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Palau-de-la-Musica-Catalana.jpg\")
Discover the Magic of Casa Mil\u00e0 (La Pedrera)<\/h2>\n
![\"Casa](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/IMG_2540.jpg\")
Watch the Magic Fountain Show at Montju\u00efc<\/h2>\n
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Take a different route to Tour Around the City<\/h2>\n
![\"Barcelona](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/IMG_2804.jpg\")
Admire the Picasso Works of Art in the Picasso Museum<\/h2>\n
![\"Picasso](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/IMG_5375.jpeg\")
Take a Cable Car to Montju\u00efc for Panoramic Views<\/h2>\n
![\"Barcelona](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Barcelona-view-from-Montjuic-castle-.jpg\")
Climb to the Top of Montju\u00efc Castle<\/h2>\n
![\"Montjuic](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/IMG_2766.jpeg\")
Eat some Local Tapas and Traditional Catalan Cuisine<\/h2>\n
![\"pintxos](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Tapas-in-Barcelona-.jpg\")
Some of our favourites Tapas Places are!<\/h3>\n
Tapeo<\/h4>\n
![\"amazing](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/amazing-tapas-at-Tapeo.jpg\")
Babula<\/h4>\n
![\"Dessert](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Dessert-at-Babula-Restaurant-barcelona.jpg\")
Shop at Passeig de Gr\u00e0cia for High-End Fashion<\/h2>\n
![\"barcelona](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/IMG_2443.jpg\")
Visit the Palo Alto Market on the Outskirts of Town.<\/h2>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/IMG_2293.jpeg\")
Where we Stayed in Barcelona<\/h2>\n
![\"Barcelona](\"https:\/\/likelovedo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_3555-1.jpeg\")