one way trip to barcelona

1 Day in Barcelona

How to spend 24 hours in the catalan capital.

Itinerary in Brief

Detailed Itinerary

Itinerary Map

Alternative Option

Tour Option

Where to Stay

Move over Rick Steves, the local experts of Barcelona Life share our top tips on how to spend one perfect day in the “The Great Enchantress”.

So you’re coming to the most beautiful city in the world… and you’ve only given yourself 24 hours to see it!?

Are you crazy!?!?

Change your flights amigos , tell your boss your favourite uncle died, or that you’ve contracted dysentery… do whatever it takes to spend longer! There are so many amazing things to do in Barcelona, that one day is never enough…. just check our 2 , 3, 4 and 5 day itineraries (all coming soon!), to see what I mean.

I’m going to attempt the impossible, and create an itinerary that captures the brilliance of Barcelona in less than 24 hours

Didn’t manage to persuade you to stay longer? Well it’s true that the real world can be brutal sometimes, with its responsibilities, and deadlines… so I’m going to attempt the impossible, and create an itinerary that captures the brilliance of Barcelona in less than 24 hours…

The Perfect 1 Day Itinerary

The key to a successful one day stay, in my opinion, is to get an overview of the city, and to visit two or three of its most important monuments. Unfortunately you won’t have the luxury to get a deeper sense of the rhythms of the city, its local life and habits, but you should get an impression on a grander scale of its geography and architecture, and maybe just a tiny slice of its balmy Bohemian atmosphere. Hopefully the seed will be sown for a second, more comprehensive visit. Here we go…

08:45 – Plaça Catalunya We start in Barcelona’s central square.

08:45-09:15 – Passeig de Gracia Take a walk up Passeig de Gracia boulevard to see the Block of Discord, including Gaudi’s Casa Batllo.

09:30 – Casa Mila Enjoy a look at Gaudi’s Casa Mila from the outside, before hopping on the tourist bus (Blue Line, one stop) to the nearby Sagrada Familia.

10:00 – La Sagrada Familia Visit Gaudi’s mindblowing masterpiece. Buy a fast track ticket , or invest in the Barcelona Pass .

11:30 – Tourist Bus Hop back on the Blue Line of the tourist bus. It’s two stops to Park Guell.

12:00 – Park Guell Enjoy views over the city from the Gaudi’s gorgeous gardens – Park Guell (it’s essential to buy advance tickets ! The park is also included in the Barcelona Pass ).

13:30 – Lunch in Gracia Take a pitstop in the Gracia district.

15:00 – Ride the Blue Line Enjoy a longer ride on the Blue Line of the tourist bus, possibly stopping off for a stadium tour of Camp Nou (you should reserve tickets here ).

16:30 – Ride the Red Line Switch onto the Red Line of the tourist bus, and enjoy a scenic ride over the attraction-laden Montjuic mountain.

18:00 – Las Ramblas Get off the bus at the 60-metre-high Colombus Statue and walk up the legendary Las Ramblas.

19:45 – Flamenco Concert & Dinner Enjoy the sultry Spanish dance with dinner. Research the best shows here .

22:00 – Nightcap Enjoy a cocktail at one of Barcelona’s famous bars .

00:00 – Bedtime Or is it?

THE BARCELONA PASS

If you decide to follow this itinerary, then consider purchasing the Barcelona Pass via Tiqets.com . The Barcelona Pass is designed with first time visitors in mind, and includes tickets to 1. La Sagrada Familia , 2. Park Guell and 3. the Hop on / Hop off Tourist Bus , as well as free audio guides.

BUY BARCELONA PASS

1 Day Itinerary in Detail

08:45 – plaça catalunya.

No slouching, I expect you to be showered, dressed and breakfasted by now, and you should have made your way to Plaça Catalunya, the city’s bustling central square.

The day starts here, at Placa Catalunya….

08:45 – 09:15 – Passeig de Gracia

From here make your way up the magnificent boulevard Passeig de Gracia by foot. This has to be one of the best looking streets in the world. Keep going up until you reach the so called ‘Block of Discord’ on your left, a single block that showcases three of Barcelona’s best architects in one: starting with the Casa Lleo i Morera by Luis Domenech i Montaner, then the Casa Amatller by Puig y Cadalfach, and finishing with the astonishing Casa Batllo , by none other than Antoni Gaudi.

The Casa Amatller (left), and the Casa Batllo, on the Block of Discord.

09:30 – Casa Mila

The embarrassment of architectural riches continues on the other side of the street with Gaudi’s Casa Mila , a vast monolithic mansion with curves like Kim Kardashian. Take a good look!

You don’t have time to enter any of these astonishing buildings however, because you’ve got a date with God. Get on board the Blue Line of the Hop On, Hop Off Tourist Bus and alight at the next stop.

10:00 – Sagrada Familia

You don’t have to be religious to sense the divine in this breathtaking homage to the big guy upstairs. Gaudi was an ardent Catholic and he dedicated the later years of his life to this impossibly grandiose edifice, every square foot of which is decorated in religious allegories, natural motifs and mathematical equations. This one you can’t miss, so buy yourself a skip-the-line ticket . Personally I would advise buying a ticket that includes audioguide, which you can do via Get Your Guide .

Note: if you’re following this itinerary exactly, you might be better off buying the Barcelona Pass as it includes Tourist Bus, Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, leaving you done and dusted with one handy purchase!

The unmissable Sagrada Familia

11:30 – Tourist Bus

However mesmerising La Sagrada proves, don’t tarry too long… you need to hustle and get back on the Blue Line of the tourist bus. Your love affair with Gaudi ain’t over yet. Get off two stops later…

12:00 – Park Guell

Excuse me for a minute whilst I get nostalgic for the times when Parc Guell was free and half empty, and I used to pop up there just to enjoy the serene beauty of the place. Sadly, in these days of readily accessible travel, we now have to wait our turn (and pay!) for such privileges – so please go online and book your tickets in advance (you’ve got a loooonng wait if you don’t!).

The viewing terraces of the wonderful Park Guell

Once you’ve passed through the art nouveau gates of Gaudi’s garden , you’ll soon see what all the fuss is about. From the majestic white staircase, with techni-colour lizard on guard, to the wide open terrace with undulating trencadis -covered benches and views over almost the entire city, this is a truly special place.

Oh what the hell, take a selfie… everyone else is!

13:30 – Lunch in Gracia

Lunch time! Leave yourself about 15 or 20 minutes and descend from Park Guell down into the chic Bohemian district of Gracia . This used to be a separate village to Barcelona, and indeed the (fiercely Catalan) locals still consider themselves distinct from downtowners. The barri is chock-full of affordable tapas bars and restaurants, so take your pick. You’ll find a few suggestions in our Restaurants section , where you can filter the location for ‘Gracia’.

A spot of lunch in Gracia…

15:00 – Ride the Blue Line

By now your legs are a little weary and your stomach a little bloated. But don’t worry, I’ve scheduled you a nice easy afternoon…

It’s time to get back to the tourist bus stop, and ride the Blue Line all the way, through the pleasant Zona Alta neighbourhoods, to the other side of the city where the legendary Camp Nou football stadium awaits. Depending on whether you’re a sports fan or not, you might want to get off here and enjoy The Barça Immersive experience . You can buy advance tickets via Get Your Guide (note: the stadium itself is closed for refurbishment until Nov 2024, but you can still tour the museum and check out those gleaming trophies).

Note: The 16:00 or 16:30 time slot for the Camp Nou Experience should fit this itinerary (it might take a bit over an hour to get there via tourist bus after lunch, 30-40 mins on the bus, plus the time you need to get from the restaurant to the bus stop and wait for the next bus to arrive).

Sports fans can squeeze in a stadium tour of Camp Nou

Not a big Barça fan? Then just enjoy the bus tour of the city and alight at the Francesc Macia roundabout, where you’re going to change onto the Red Line of the tourist bus route.

16:30 – Ride the Red Line

From Francesc Macia, the Red Line of the tourist bus will take you to Plaça Espanya, where you will spy the eye-catching Las Arenas shopping centre (it was once a bullfighting arena, and it shows!), before taking a very enjoyable ride through the leafy hills of Montjuic mountain .

Enjoy the bus ride over Montjuic hill, with its parks and museums

This green space is full of parkland and cultural treasures, and you might want to alight at any of the Joan Miro Foundation , Olympic Stadium , or Miramar viewing point, if you have time.

With a bit of luck you should reach the Columbus Statue around 18:00. (If you stopped for Camp Nou you’re probably behind schedule, so plan accordingly!).

18:00 – Las Ramblas

The 60-metre-high column with the New World explorer on top is your sign to get off the bus. You’re at the bottom of Las Ramblas, the city’s (in)famous thoroughfare. You wouldn’t want to have to cross this street every day, as its positively jam-packed with tourists, but on the other hand, you wouldn’t want to miss it either. It’s a wide, lively street, flanked by theatres, restaurants and palaces. You can read more here .

Walk up La Rambla, from Colombus back up to Pl. Catalunya

As you head up Las Ramblas, navigate a little bit to the right in order to discover the lively Plaça Reial , possibly my favourite square in the city. You might want to come back here at night for a beer!

Be sure to pop by the Placa Reial

Whilst on the left of Las Ramblas, as you head up, you’ll pass not only La Boqueria food market (pop in and get yourself some freshly squeezed juice) but also the historic Liceu Theatre .

You’ll also pass all manner of artists, street performers, vendors, hawkers, florists, kiosks and souvenir sellers.

If it’s cold outside you could nip down to Petrixol street (on the right) and grab a hot chocolate from one of the traditional cafes there.

After that it’s time to get back to your hotel and get changed for the evening.

19:45 – Flamenco & Dinner

If you really want to do it all in one day, then round off your Barcelona itinerary with a flamenco show and dinner. There are several great tablaos (concert venues) to choose from, and I’d suggest either this affordable flamenco & tapas evening , or else a show at Tablao Cordobes on Las Ramblas.

Tablao Cordobes offers three or four shows a night, and you can buy a ticket with a drink, with Spanish tapas or will full Spanish dinner, so check what times and options work for you. Shows tend to sell out so best to buy tickets via Get Your Guide (select the date first, and then you will see the different meal options and times).

Round off your Barcelona experience with a flamenco show…

If flamenco isn’t your bag baby, then you can’t go wrong with dinner at El Nacional , a refined food court where four different restaurants and four more bars offer tastes from all corners of Spain.

More things to do at night here .

22:00 – Nightcap

You’ve really packed it in today, so reward yourself with a nice refreshing libation. For cocktails try Slow cocktail bar or La Whiskeria .

If you find yourself in the Gothic Quarter, then head over to Milk , or one of the bars on Plaça Reial (I like Ocaña the best).

Chilling out in style at Slow

00:00 – Bed Time?

Bed time! Unless of course you truly want to make this a 24 hours in Barcelona experience and party until dawn with the city’s cool cats and night owls. In that case let me present to you our guide to the local nightlife .

Related Reading

2 Days in Barcelona

Entertainment Guide

Culture Guide

Tours & Trips

Spas & Wellness

Things to do with kids

1 Day Itinerary – The Remix

If you don’t fancy riding the tourist bus, or want to save yourself €33, you could grab the metro (or even walk, it’s not that far) to Sagrada Familia from Casa Mila, and then later take the metro from Sagrada Familia to get to Park Guell.

Afterwards you could metro back into town and do Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter at a leisurely pace, as well as wander around El Born .

Barcelona’s Gothic Cathedral in the Old Town

Highlights in these zones are not only the aforementioned Plaça Reial and Boqueria market, but also the Gothic Cathedral , the Passeig del Born and the Picasso Museum .

This would probably give you more control, and time to get ready, if you have booked flamenco tickets in the evening.

1 Day Itinerary – Tour Options

If you want someone else to do all your thinking and planning for you, this half-day Barcelona highlights tour does an excellent job. It follows a similar route to the one I mapped out (great minds!), starting with a guided tour of La Sagrada Familia, and then a jaunt around Montjuic and the Olympic Stadium, before a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter. The tour is reasonable priced and includes hotel pick up.

An ebike tour allows you to see a lot of sights in a short time!

Or else consider an electric bike tour , as these power-assisted bikes can cover a lot of ground with little effort. The Barcelona Photo Highlights Tour by Oceans Bikes covers all of the city’s greatest sights and ensures you’ll come home with plenty of stunning selfies and panoramas.

If you plan on using this itinerary, your best bet is to book a hotel near Plaça Catalunya, where this schedule starts and ends. The 4-star Iberostar Selection is right on the square itself, while close by I also like Hotel Jazz .

If money is no object, make it the Mandarin…

If money is no object, the 5-star Mandarin Oriental is a little way up the Passeig de Gracia (giving you a headstart on my itinerary!). They have a fantastic cocktail bar on site.

For a comprehensive guide on where to stay in Barcelona check One Week In travel guide .

Getting to the Airport

You can find our complete guide to getting to and from the airport here . The most convenient way to get into town would be to book a transfer through Welcome Pickup .

Final Advice

I tried to leave as much time as might be needed to get from a. to b. during this itinerary, but if you are buying tickets with specific entry times be sure to leave some extra wiggle room. If you are travelling with children, stop for excessive amount of selfies, enjoy long lunches or get unlucky with the buses / traffic, you may hit some of these stops later than I predicted here.

Also, as ever with Barcelona, be vigilant about pickpockets, especially on the metro, Las Ramblas, and in the winding streets of the Old Town (Gothic Quarter, El Born etc.). The city is very safe, but unguarded possessions (like bags left under tables) are often swiped by opportunistic thieves.

More Itineraries…

Managed to extend your stay to 48 hours? Great, then get over to our perfect weekend itinerary page!

About the Author

Duncan established Barcelona Life in 2009, whilst freelancing for the likes of Conde Nast, The Guardian, Easyjet Magazine, CNN Traveller and many more. From interviews with Ferran Adria to revealing the secrets of the city’s poetry brothels, he knows the city inside out… and shares all his best tips right here.

We will be arriving in Barcelona 12:30 on a Friday and leaving 20:00 Saturday. You information has helped a lot on this 1 day in Barcelona. Do you have a suggested itinerary? Ideally we would be starting the day around 14:00 on Friday and ending around 18:30 Saturday allowing travel time for arrival and departure. Thank you,

If you are confident about flights arriving on time you could start at Sagrada Familia on Friday and then make your way to Passeig de Gracia (Casa Mila and Casa Batllo) then take a long walk down Passeig de Gracia and Las Ramblas to the Old Town. Dinner plus evening walk in Old Town, checking Gothic Cathedral as well.

Saturday you could do Park Guell and then ride tourist bus or take metro to Montjuic and explore the many sights around there.

We arrive in Barcelona at 12:30pm and leave the next day at 9:00am. What is the best itinerary to do so we can see the main top sites.

I would do Sagrada Familia first, then Park Guell, and then walk around the Old Town (specifically Gothic Quarter) in the evening. You will need advance tickets to SF and PG, so you need to plan your timings well (if you land at 12:30, I wouldn’t book SF until 15:00 at the very earliest to give you some wiggle room to get to hotel and check in etc.).

thank you for your detailed instructions… appreciate all the information and i can not wait to experience this itinerary! thank you so much

Joseph Shra

What would you recommend for less then 24 hr. We’ll arrive about 10:30 a.m. at the hotel on Passeig de Gracia, 68, Barcelona. We’ll leave about 12:00 noon next day. Granted we can not see everything but maybe the most important Thank you Joseph

Hope Leet Dittmeier

We fly into Barcelona on a Wednesday morning, arriving at 9 am local time. We need to take the Estació del Nord to Lloret de Mar at 4:45. Do you have a suggestion for the best place to store our luggage for the day

Sure thing, lots of solutions on this page:

https://www.barcelona-life.com/left-luggage-lockers-in-barcelona

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Cheap flights to Barcelona, Spain from $387

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Currently, January is the cheapest month in which you can book a flight to Barcelona (average of $511). Flying to Barcelona in June will prove the most costly (average of $1,131). There are multiple factors that influence the price of a flight so comparing airlines, departure airports and times can help keep costs down.

Peak Season:

Barcelona is Spain’s most popular tourist destination, and July and August are the peak months for travelers. Many of the locals depart for the beach in August and leave the city to the visitors, and thus you may find some cheap flights during this time. Spring time (May and June) and towards the end of summer (September) is the best time of year to book your flights into Barcelona. The temperatures are less intense than the other summer months and during June there are fantastic carnivals going on that you can enjoy. Sant Joan is a great festival to attend for a night of fireworks and beach celebrations. Book your cheap flights to Barcelona early on in the year to secure the best prices.

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Entertainment

In the boarding area at La Guardia, there are charging stations for electronics but the electric outlets do not work on many of the stations.

Catalonia’s capital and the second-largest city in Spain has it all – an effortless, cool vibe, history, culture, mesmerizing architecture, exciting cuisine, one of the world’s biggest football clubs, beaches, and a local population with an unquenchable thirst for a night out. Barcelona’s reputation as a must-visit city has made it an easy European locale to access; plenty of flights arrive here daily from all over the world.

Barcelona is one of Spain’s major cities and a popular destination for tourists from around the world. It’s one of the most economically powerful cities in the European Union and is constantly developing, with new businesses and industries flourishing. The city also has a very rich history dating back to Roman times, and its cultural heritage makes it an important site for people interested in European history and architecture – from Roman ruins and Gothic cathedrals to the masterful buildings of Antoni Gaudí. The natural landscape offers stunning sights as well, with nearby beaches perfect for soaking up the sun.

Barcelona also has a rich history in the arts. Two artists define its scene: Pablo Picasso and the aforementioned Antoni Gaudi. Picasso lived in the city from his teenage years to his early 20’s. The Picasso Museum features 3,500 of the artist’s works, from sketches to paintings and collages. To see Gaudi’s work, look around the streets of Barcelona. He was the mastermind behind the stunning Sagrada Familia, a large Roman catholic church famous for its long-unfinished state. Another is Park Guell, a public park system composed of gardens and architectonic elements.

There are also many beautiful areas and neighborhoods in the city which deserve exploration. The Gothic quarter has some of the best-preserved medieval streets, and the area around Montjüic hill offers spectacular panoramic views of the city. The tree-lined La Rambla sweeps down from the Placa de Catalunya to the water, a lively area of cafes, market stalls and street performers.

Well known for hosting the Summer Olympics in 1992, Barcelona continues to be a popular destination for competitive sports, especially soccer (or futbol as its known outside of the United States). People with an interest in arts and crafts can also enjoy a variety of trade exhibitions and artisan markets in addition to museums exhibiting classical artwork. The city also boasts a vibrant night life and is home to some of the most enthusiastic party-goers on the planet, with a variety of clubs, theaters and music venues found all over the city. There is so much to see and do in Barcelona that you may end up sticking around longer than you planned for. No matter how long you are planning to stay in the city, here are some tips to help you plan and enjoy the smoothest possible trip.

Getting to and around the city of Barcelona

It normally takes around twenty to thirty minutes to travel from Barcelona-El Prat Airport to the city center, which is a little less than 10 miles away, regardless of what transport option you decide on. One of the most common ways is to catch a RENFE train from the airport to Estacio De Sants. If you purchased a T10 ticket at the airport you can change here and jump onto the metro at no extra cost to get to your final destination. If you arrive at terminal 1 then you can get a free shuttle bus to the station to catch the RENFE train. There is also the TMB airport bus (number 46). This normally takes a little longer as it makes a few stops but you can use your T10 ticket to get on and off easily. You can also arrange a minibus or a driver in advance to pick you up from the airport.

Once you’ve settled in to your hotel and are ready to explore the city, you’ll realize that there are several transportation options for visitors, including trains, buses and an extensive highway system. The public transportation system is extensive and includes a bus network, a metro, several tram networks and aerial cable cars. It’s also efficient and a great way to get around Barcelona. The metro has numerous lines and will take visitors nearly anywhere in the city. A double-decker bus also makes stops at popular tourist destinations in the summer. Buy multiple-ride tickets to save some money. The Barcelona Card gets you discounts at various restaurants and tourist attractions.

Once you’re in a certain area, walking is a nice way to explore. You can also rent mopeds and bicycles, or grab a taxi to get around. Taxis are reasonably priced, but it’s always a good idea to make sure the meter is running. Note that fares are more expensive at night. Visitors who prefer to rent a car of their own and drive will find that Barcelona is well connected with neighboring areas. A few different international routes cut through the city, and an extensive network of highways and smaller roads help connect major sights within the city.

Tips for your stay in Barcelona

• There are so many major tourist attractions in the city that you may feel like getting off the beaten track and seeing something a little different. If so, the Museu del Calcat, or shoe museum, is a perfect pick. The museum showcases the cobbler’s craft from Roman times to modern day. You’ll find it in the Gothic Quarter between the cathedral and Carrer Banys.
• The catamaran Orsom is moored at the port and is a great way to head out to sea or to parts of Costa Brava. Jazz cruises set out in the evenings. To book, just head to the port at the bottom of La Rambla.
• As with most major tourist attractions, it’s best to visit the Sagrada Familia in the very early morning if you want to avoid the crowds. More than 1 million people come here every year, so unless you enjoy being jostled, arrive first thing in the morning to see it in (relative) peace and quiet.
• For a more relaxed Gaudi experience, head for the Park Guell. Buses stop right outside, or you can take a short walk from the metro. The UNESCO World Heritage site is filled with Gaudi’s stunning sculptures, but there is plenty of room just to sit back and enjoy the views of the city, too.
• If you want to visit the beaches of Barcelona, the closest to the city center is Barceloneta. However, this is, understandably, extremely busy. A short bus ride away is Nova Icaria, near the Olympic marina, and bustling bars and restaurants. To experience the sea in a bit more solitude, take a train to the north and stop at Ocata, where you’ll find a long sandy beach with plenty of space and beautiful, clean water.
• The Gothic Quarter has some of Europe’s best-preserved medieval streets. The new part of town is around Montjuic Hill from where there are sumptuous views.
• The Fiesta de Gracia (or Festes de Gracia) is one of Barcelona‘s largest, and most colorful, festivals, and celebrates community togetherness.

Finding Flights from Barcelona

Barcelona is a wonderful city to visit, but you may also want to explore elsewhere. Cheapflights can help you plan a great vacation at an affordable price. Most flights will leave Barcelona-El Prat, but Girona-Costa Brava Airport will also have domestic flights to other cities in Spain. Visit https://www.cheapflights.co.uk for the top flight deals for routes out of Barcelona. Flights are available from carriers such as Iberia and other European airlines, and many more.

Barcelona-El Prat Airport is 7 miles from Barcelona, and is easily accessible by bus, train, or taxi. The Aerobus runs daily every ten to twenty minutes from Placa de Catalunya. The Aeropuerto train runs every thirty minutes from Barcelona stations Sants, Passeig de Gracia and Clot, and arrives at the airport in eighteen minutes. You will want to arrive early to avoid lines through security, especially during the peak times of July and August.

Once you choose a destination, be sure to check out our Barcelona airport guides for more detailed travel information and helpful tips.

What’s the weather like in Barcelona?

Situated along the shores of the Mediterranean, Barcelona is warm from May through October, and cool from November through April. July and August are the hottest months with the temperatures occasionally pushing into the high 90’s (Fahrenheit). January and February are the coolest months when temperatures are usually around 50 degrees (Fahrenheit). May and June are sunny and warm, and the heat typically starts to decrease in late September. Late summer and into the early fall also happens to be the rainiest months of the year.

How long is the flight to Barcelona?

Most flights from the United Sates will arrive at Barcelona–El Prat Airport, the city’s largest international airport. Flights coming from New York City take approximately eight hours, from Chicago take about nine and a half hours, from Houston take about eleven hours, and from Los Angeles take about twelve and a half hours. Flights that aren’t direct generally have a stopover in Madrid or London.

Which airlines fly to Barcelona?

Many airlines fly into Barcelona, so you will have plenty of options. The three main U.S. carriers are Delta, American, and United Airlines. Spain’s main airline, Iberia Airline, also serves many cities in the U.S. Other international airlines include British Airways, Lufthansa, and Air France.

What should you pack for a flight to Barcelona?

Barcelona is a southern coastal city that enjoys a subtropical climate year round, so you will want to pack plenty of lightweight, comfortable clothing. Shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses are perfect for walking around the city, and comfortable shoes are a must. Pack some light jackets and pants for when the temperature drops, or for when you are touring some of the more conservative churches. The weather remains warm through October, so pack a swimsuit if you plan on visiting the beaches. Include a nice outfit or two in your luggage for when you plan a night out at an elegant restaurant.

What are some things to do in Barcelona?

Colorful Barcelona is a vibrant city filled with tons of history, culture, nightlife, and art; it’s no wonder that it is one of the most popular European destinations for tourists. The heart of the city is La Rambla, a broad street that stretches from Placa de Catalunya in the city’s center, to the water’s edge. Walking down this street you will find plenty of street vendors, performers, cafes, restaurants and night entertainment. Just off of La Rambla is Barri Gotic, or the Gothic Quarter. This medieval district has winding streets where you will find small cafes, shops, museums, and restaurants to explore. Antoni Gaudi was a major architect in Barcelona, and his influence is felt throughout the city. His most famous work is Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, a basilica commissioned in 1883 and is still unfinished today. Sagrada Familia has 18 soaring towers, bright stained glass windows, and is one of the best examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Several other buildings by Gaudi are in the Eixample district. Spend the day touring the Casa Mila, resembling a stone quarry, and Casa Batllo, which resembles a fairytale castle. Another must-see site by Guadi is Park Guell, a cheerful, whimsical park filled with gardens, winding staircases, grottoes, and sculptures. For a spectacular view of the city and Mediterranean Sea, head to Montjuic. This hilltop park features several museums, gardens, fountains, and the Tibidabo Amusement Park. The park was the site of the 1992 Olympics, and you can still see the stadium here. Be sure to wander the Poble Espanyol, a recreated village that was built for the 1929 International Exhibition. A great day trip form Barcelona is the Salvador Dali Museum in his hometown of Figueres. Less than two hours away by high-speed train, this museum houses the largest and most diverse collection by Dali, including many pieces from his own private collection.

What does BCN mean?

Great question - BCN just means Barcelona-El Prat Airport. Now you’ll know what this unique code and ones like it mean when you look for flights! Girona Costa Brava Airport (GRO), Reus Airport (REU), La Seu d'Urgell Aeroport De La Seu Airport (LEU), Lleida-Alguaire Airport (ILD) are other airports near this flight destination and their unique identifiers/IATA codes.

Can I find cheaper flights to Barcelona if I am willing to have layovers?

Yes, flights with layovers are often cheaper than direct flights. Keep an eye out for flight deals to Barcelona on Cheapflights that require 1 or 2 stops for potential cost savings.

What is the best airline to fly to Barcelona?

Based on reviews from Cheapflights users, PLAY is rated the highest out of the airlines that fly to Barcelona.

What is the cheapest airport to fly to in Barcelona?

null is currently the cheapest airport to fly to in Barcelona. One-way flights to null typically cost null, while round-trip flights cost around null.

How much is a round-trip flight to Barcelona?

A round-trip flight to Barcelona will typically cost around $42, however they can be found for as little as $11.

Where does the fastest flight to Barcelona depart from?

For those looking to save time traveling to Barcelona, Boston offers the quickest one-way flight (7 hours 10 minutes).

Which airport is closest to Fira de Barcelona Gran Via?

If being close to Barcelona is important to you, you’ll want to land at Barcelona-El Prat Airport.

Does Barcelona-El Prat Airport have rental cars?

Yes. Those touching down at Barcelona-El Prat Airport can take advantage of the rental car services offered upon their arrival.

Are there hotels close to Barcelona-El Prat Airport?

Yes. Barcelona-El Prat Airport has hotels nearby for those requiring accommodations. Air Rooms Barcelona Airport by Premium Traveller is the closest property to Barcelona-El Prat Airport (0.0 mi away from Barcelona-El Prat Airport).

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Cheap flights to Barcelona from $326

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CHEAPEST ROUTE FROM Los Angeles TO Barcelona

Los Angeles (LAX) to Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)

Typically, flights to Barcelona from Los Angeles are cheaper when flying from Los Angeles to Barcelona-El Prat, which has an average price of $867

Cheap Barcelona flight deals and tips

Summary info about barcelona flight prices, duration and airlines, frequently asked questions about flying to barcelona.

An action packed, cosmopolitan city, Barcelona promises beautiful beaches, elegant architecture, and inimitable culture and heritage. What makes the city even more special is its cool vibe, thriving nightlife, rich music scene and an ongoing culinary renaissance.

Summertime from June – August is the peak tourist season in Barcelona. Hotels are fully booked and room rates are at their highest. Try to book your preferred hotel a few months in advance, if you’re planning a summer visit. In the shoulder months from May – June or September, the average temperature is around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a good time to enjoy the warm, balmy weather, less crowds and reasonable room rates. Barcelona also hosts numerous carnival-like festivals during the short spring season from May – June. From October onwards through winter, the ocean becomes too cool for a swim, and the city experiences occasional rain showers. However, if you don’t mind slightly cooler temperatures of 55 – 60 degrees Fahrenheit, then visit Barcelona from November – March. While you may have to skip the beach activities, you can enjoy the some bargains on hotel rates, and avoid the crowds.

When is it best to fly to Barcelona to go sightseeing?

When planning your flight to Barcelona, consider that the month of October are typically considered the best times to visit if you are looking to go sightseeing. That is when the weather is most cooperative. Sights like La Rambla, Sagrada Familia, and Passeig de Gracia are very popular tourist attractions.

When is the best time to plan a beach trip to Barcelona?

July or August is widely considered the best time to visit Barcelona to go to area beaches like Playa de la Barceloneta. Another popular area beach is Platja de la Mar Bella.

Is there an alternative airport near Barcelona?

Those flying to Barcelona could potentially find better pricing at Girona Costa Brava Airport (47 mi from Barcelona city center) depending on the month and departure airport.

Is there a cheaper alternative to flying into Barcelona?

Prices vary based on where travelers are departing from, but on average, the cheapest airport to fly to in Barcelona is Girona Costa Brava Airport where the average price is $86. Users typically find the best prices when using momondo’s Airport-to-Airport Pricing Tool .

Are there flights to Eixample?

Yes, flights to Eixample are served by Barcelona’s Barcelona-El Prat airport which is 7.8 mi away.

What’s the closest airport to La Rambla?

Barcelona-El Prat airport is 7.5 mi from La Rambla in Barcelona, making it the closest airport.

When did momondo last update prices for flights to Barcelona?

Prices for flights to Barcelona refresh daily.

How many operators does momondo search for flights to Barcelona?

The number of operators available for flights to Barcelona is 86 as of April 2024.

How old do you have to be to fly to Barcelona?

The minimum age for a child to fly alone is five, but airlines offering an unaccompanied minor (UNMR) service may have their age restrictions, such as regulations concerning flight duration, timing, and layovers. It is recommended that you verify with the airline you are booking with for travel to Barcelona.

What documentation or ID do you need to fly to Barcelona?

The required travel and health documents for your Barcelona trip may vary depending on your itinerary and personal circumstances. As a general rule, you should carry multiple documents, including a national ID card or driver's license and a passport valid for six months after your intended arrival at Barcelona. We recommend that you seek guidance from your airline or a reliable third party such as IATA.

Why use momondo?

Why should i use momondo to find a flight deal to barcelona.

momondo compares prices from hundreds of airlines and agents so you can find and book the best deal on flights to Barcelona. Millions of users trust and use momondo every year so you are in good company.

Can I find flights to Barcelona with flexible booking policies on momondo?

Flights to Barcelona with flexible booking policies can be found by using the search form above and then selecting our dedicated flexible booking filter, which will highlight only the flights where this policy is applied.

How can momondo help me find flights to Barcelona?

momondo offers useful filters to help you find the right flight. Choose specific flight times, airports or even what payment method you prefer. We have numerous options to help you book your ideal flight to Barcelona.

I’m not ready to book a flight to Barcelona right now. Can momondo alert me if prices change?

If you are simply researching potential flights to Barcelona, momondo offers a useful price alert feature which will track prices for flights to Barcelona and alert you when they change.

An easier way to manage your Barcelona trip

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The 17 best things to do in Barcelona in 2024

Feb 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Here are Barcelona's unmissable experiences © Jordi Salas / Getty Images

Barcelona is Spain 's most visited city, and it's not hard to see why – the historic capital of Catalonia is packed with galleries, museums, attractions and an incredible food scene.

Set between the mountains and sea, the city is celebrated for its unique architecture , thriving nightlife and urban beaches . With so many options, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Start your travel to-do list now with our guide to the best things to do in Barcelona .

1. Visit the Sagrada Família

Almost every city has at least one landmark that you simply can’t miss, and the  Sagrada Família is Barcelona’s. Antoni Gaudí’s magnificent masterpiece has been under construction for more than 130 years, and it’s still not finished.

Far from a construction site, however, the church features two grand facades studded with intricate stone carvings, towers that gleam with gem-like tiles and an interior filled with tree-like columns soaring up toward the canopy ceiling. Construction work paused during the pandemic but has resumed and the building is expected to be completed in time for the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death in 2026.

Planning tip:  The Sagrada Família is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain, and it can get  very  busy. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning (it opens at 9am) on a weekday.

2. See more of Gaudí’s designs

The Sagrada Família may be the most famous of Gaudí’s buildings, but all his wonderful, whimsical designs are worth visiting. The most well known are  Casa Batlló , with its iridescent dragon-like scales and skull-and-bone-effect balconies, and  La Pedrera , with its undulating stone facade and fanciful chimneys. Some of his lesser-known but equally beautiful buildings include  Casa Vicens , the first house he ever designed;  Palau Güell , which he designed for his patron Eusebi Güell; and the  Torre Bellesguard .

3. Wander through the Gothic Quarter

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter ( Barri Gòtic ) is the oldest and most atmospheric part of the city. Characterized by small alleyways, hidden plazas and historic buildings, it lies to the east of La Rambla, the famous pedestrian street that runs through the center of the old town.

The neighborhood is scattered with century-old shops, small bars and charming cafes. Some highlights include the striking Plaça Reial, fringed by cafes and palm trees; Plaça Sant Jaume, home to the grand Palau de la Generalitat; and the impressive  La Catedral .

Planning tip:  Many parts of the Gothic Quarter are known for late-night bars and clubs that are still going well into the morning. Perfect if you want to dance until dawn, but not the best neighborhood to stay in if you're traveling with young kids or those who appreciate an early night.

4. Explore Barcelona's food markets

La Boqueria might be the most famous of Barcelona’s food markets, but each neighborhood has its own, and there are several excellent ones to choose from. La Boqueria is the oldest and one of the most atmospheric, but in recent years, more stalls have given over to things such as tropical fruit shakes and novelty candy rather than traditional produce.

For a more authentic vibe, visit the modern  Mercat de Santa Caterina with its multicolored wavy roof or the grand  Mercat de Sant Antoni  with 250 stalls.

5. Soak up the sun on Barcelona's city beaches

Whatever time of year you visit Barcelona , the beaches won’t disappoint. Even in winter, it can be sunny enough to sit outside and enjoy a meal at one of the seaside restaurants, while summer offers everything from sunbathing and swimming to water sports.

The city boasts a 5km (3-mile) stretch of coastline, home to nine different beaches. There’s  Sant Sebastià with its range of upscale restaurants, Somorrostro lined with hip nightclubs and Nova Icària with a watersports center and beach volleyball.

6. Venture up Montjuïc

Montjuïc is the green hill to the south of the city, home to the Olympic Park, as well as numerous museums and gardens. Rising from Plaza d’Espanya, you'll first see the grand sets of stairs and fountains cascading down from the magnificent palace housing the  Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya . Behind that is the huge Olympic Stadium and the rest of the Olympic Park. 

Planning tip:  The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya has a terrace that offers spectacular views of the city and is a popular spot to watch the sunset. The open-air bar means you can enjoy a few drinks while taking in the view.

Explore Montjuic effortlessly with  GetYourGuide . Book your tour today.

7. Snack on some tapas

When hunger pangs arrive in the afternoon or early evening, take advantage of the pre-dinner tapa. This means heading to the local favorite for a bite of anchovies, sausage, squid, wild mushrooms, roasted peppers or dozens of other tempting morsels. Wine, cava and beer all make fine accompaniments.

Planning tip: Many tapas spots are lively stand-around-the-bar affairs. When it's time for a change of scenery, barcelonins  make their way to dinner or just head to another tapas bar and skip the sit-down formality altogether.

8. Learn about an icon at the Museu Picasso

Picasso lived in Barcelona between the ages of 15 and 23, and elements of the city undoubtedly influenced his pieces, from the colorful but simply painted frescoes hanging in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya to the imaginative trencadís -style mosaics (pre-Cubist some say) of Gaudí. The Museu Picasso 's setting adds to the appeal, as do the buzzy, history-rich surrounding streets of El Born.

Explore Museu Picasso effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

9. Catch a game at Camp Nou

FC Barcelona plays a prominent role in the city's imagination. Heading to a football match at Camp Nou between September and May is the best way to catch a bit of Barcelona fever, but watching it on screen in a bar can be just as much fun, depending on the crowd. 

Planning tip: Even if you can't make it to a game, the interactive Barça Stadium Tour and Museum experience takes you through the locker rooms and onto the field, hallowed ground for many Catalans.

Transform your visit to Camp Nou by  booking with GetYourGuide.

10. Experience Barcelona's famous nightlife

A night in Barcelona holds limitless possibilities. Start with sunset drinks on a rooftop terrace or sink your heels into the sand at a rustic-chic beachside xiringuito . As darkness falls, the city transforms with buzzing squares and live music, and around midnight the bars fill up.

Pick from old-school taverns, plush lounges in lamp-lit medieval chambers, sleek cocktail dens, boisterous cava bars, basements churning out brassy jazz and more. If you're still standing at 3am, hit the clubs and keep going until dawn.

11. Spend an early morning on La Rambla

Sure, the leafy 1.2km (0.75-mile) pedestrian boulevard of  La Rambla  that stretches toward the sea is the most touristed spot in town – at times, you can barely push through the crowds. But pay a visit first thing in the morning and you'll see that beyond the souvenir shops and craft sellers, it's a pure sensory overload.

Open-air cafes, fragrant flower stands and a much-overlooked mosaic by Miró dot the pavement, while key venues line both sides of the street, including the elegant Gran Teatre del Liceu , the sprawling Mercat de la Boqueria and numerous galleries. Several other barris , such as El Poblenou, have their own attractive rambles , too.

12. Enjoy Catalan cuisine

Barcelona is a great foodie city, known throughout the world for its innovative chefs and creative cuisine. While you’ll find tapas bars everywhere, be sure to sample some local Catalan dishes, too.

Before you dine, join in l’hora del vermut at a typical vermouth bar, which pairs the fortified wine with bites of pickled anchovies and olives to whet the appetite. Follow it up with traditional Catalan dishes, such as botifarra amb mongetes (sausage with white beans), suquet de peix (fish stew), escalivada (roasted red peppers, onions and eggplant) and crema catalana (similar to crème brûlée). Sample the cuisine at  Casa Delfín .

13. Celebrate during festival time

Because Barcelona has a festival almost every other month, it won’t be hard to make your trip to the city coincide with one. There are the patron-saint festivals of Santa Eulalia and La Mercé in February and September, respectively, La Diada de Sant Jordi in April (when people give each other gifts of books and roses to celebrate St George) and the fire festival of St Joan in mid-June.

Some of the main features of Catalan festivals include the castellers  (human towers), huge parading giants and correfocs , where firework-wielding devils dance through the streets.

14. See a range of works at Fundació Joan Miró

Joan Miró, the city’s best-known 20th-century native son, bequeathed this art foundation to his hometown in 1971. The light-filled buildings are crammed with seminal works, from Miró’s timid early sketches to paintings from his last years.

15. Scope out examples of Modernista architecture

One of the things that makes Barcelona so charming is its Modernista architecture. An artistic movement that affected everything from literature and art to architecture, the Modernisme era lasted from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries.

You can identify these buildings by their bright colors, floral or botanical motifs, patterned tiles and curvy lines. Some of the best examples can be seen around the L'Eixample area, but you can also find them dotted all over the city. Besides Gaudí’s Modernista works, some of the best examples in the city are the  Palau de la Música Catalana and the  Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau , both designed by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner.

16. Explore up-and-coming El Poblenou

On the up is the formerly industrial neighborhood of El Poblenou, northeast of the center. Vacant warehouses are being reimagined as creative tech and design hubs, cafes, boutiques, bars and more.

17. Sip a drink at one of L'Eixample's rooftop bars

Admire Modernista marvels over a cocktail or vermouth. L'Eixample 's elegant streets conceal an array of hidden-away, view-laden open-air bars and cafes beloved by barcelonins , many of them within swish hotels but open to all. 

This article was first published February 2020 and updated February 2024

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Traveling to Barcelona for the First Time: 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 15, 2024

Traveling to Barcelona for the first time and not sure where to start and what to expect? This article covers all the essential Barcelona travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip.

Planning your first visit to Barcelona, Spain, might be overwhelming. There are so many questions… How much time do you need in Barcelona? When to visit and how to avoid the crowds? Where to stay and what to see? Any local tips and habits to be aware of? Or how to see the best that Barcelona has to offer in a limited time and without breaking the bank?…

To help you plan your first trip to Barcelona, we selected some of the best tips for visiting the city. This no-nonsense practical guide will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your time and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Barcelona:

• Sagrada Familia .
• Park Güell .
• Montjuïc Cable Car .
• Barcelona Pass .
• Casa Batlló .

Here are our essential Barcelona travel tips:

1. Research & Book in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when visiting Barcelona for the first time is not to plan your trip in advance. So congratulations – because you are reading this, you already have a head start compared to other visitors!

Whether it’s flights, accommodations, or tickets for the main Barcelona attractions – booking in advance means that you have more choices and much better prices . It also means less wasted time queuing and more relaxing time sightseeing and enjoying this fabulous city. After all, you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Also, doing your research in advance means that you will avoid disappointment to find that the places you want to visit are closed or tickets sold out . Below are some examples that illustrate what I mean.

For example, we really wanted to see the dancing fountain of Barcelona, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc , and were told that it dances every night. However, it’s not the case. Furthermore, since we were traveling in the low season, it was actually only dancing three times a week.

Because we arrived on a Saturday and left before the next weekend, we only had one chance to see the fountains during our visit – on the first evening in the city. So despite an early flight and a very long day, we decided to go. If we hadn’t done the research -assuming that we could just see it any night- we would have definitely missed it.

We also researched whether it was a good idea to visit Montserrat Monastery on Sunday. It turns out that it’s the busiest day of the week. So we booked a tour for Monday instead…

I also heard from some of our readers that they couldn’t visit the famous Barcelona market Mercado de La Boqueria because they didn’t realize that it was closed on Sundays. By the way, all indoor markets in Barcelona are closed on Sundays.

Another reader told us that they couldn’t visit Park Güell because they didn’t buy tickets in advance and no walk-ins were possible… (Btw, Park Güell is one of the most-visited Barcelona attractions and you really have to book your tickets in advance!).

Good to know: Tickets for the most popular Barcelona attractions often sell out up to 2-3 weeks in advance. This is especially the case in high season. Plus, most entry tickets are now timed, so you need to see what’s possible and how to fit it all into your itinerary. Further below, you will find more details and tips, but if you get the Barcelona Pass , you will have the option to pre-book a timeslot for your skip-the-line entry to all the main sights.

By doing your research in advance, you can also compare prices, reviews, and itineraries for the best tours in Barcelona… This brings us to the next point.

READ ALSO: Top Sights & Attractions in Barcelona

2. Save Time & Money When Visiting Barcelona’s Main Landmarks

Visiting Barcelona for the first time also means visiting all the main landmarks and attractions. Of course, you will want to see the famous La Sagrada Familia and the other iconic Gaudi buildings and architecture! Just make sure that you are well prepared so that you don’t waste hours and days standing in lines.

TIP: If you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona, consider skip-the-line tickets for ALL the main landmarks and the most popular tourist attractions. We also recommend booking guided tours for the Sagrada Familia and the main Gaudi buildings – that way you’ll get a much better understanding of all the symbolism and stories behind the architecture.

You can find Barcelona tours and skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and also on Tiqets . More information – further below.

Skip the Line Tickets

Some of the most popular attractions in Barcelona like Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, Park Güell, or La Sagrada Familia can have extremely long waiting times. Buying your tickets in advance is essential when visiting these places in any season!

Here you can get skip-the-line tickets for Casa Batllo , Casa Mila , Park Güell , and – the most popular of them all – La Sagrada Familia .

PRO TIP: With this Barcelona Pass , you can immediately reserve timed-entry tickets for the most popular sights, including the towers of La Sagrada Familia (regular tickets don’t include tower access!). This is a digital pass, so you will get tickets per email (= very simple to book and use).

TIP: If you didn’t think of buying the tickets in advance and they are sold out, try booking a guided tour instead. Guided tours prebook tickets and make it possible to visit the main landmarks even if the tickets are sold out. I recommend visiting Gaudi’s buildings and especially La Sagrada Familia with a tour anyway. Read on to learn why!

Guided Tours

Even when we visited in the low season, all the Gaudi buildings in Barcelona were incredibly busy. Often, it wasn’t even clear where to go even if you had already pre-booked your tickets…

That’s why we chose to visit all the Gaudi buildings on a tour. Here you can read more about our experience with the Gaudi tour (we chose this amazing tour that covers all the main Gaudi landmarks in a day).

We visited Barcelona with our three kids who, obviously, have no patience when it comes to long queues. Taking a tour meant that we could relax while the guide took care of everything. We just followed the guide and never had to wait anywhere longer than 10 minutes.

I can’t imagine how different our experience would have been if we had to figure out where exactly to go and wait in endless lines everywhere. We wouldn’t have been able to see half as much, not even to mention our sanity having to deal with bored kids…

Furthermore, having a local guide who explained what, where, and why, enabled us to appreciate what we were seeing. We never knew there were so many symbols and stories behind all the tiny details in Gaudi’s buildings! Gaudi was a real genius and we would have never gotten to know any of that if we had visited his buildings on our own.

Free Museums

Most Barcelona museums have specific days or hours when you can visit them free of charge. In general, you can expect most museums to be free on the first Sunday of the month. But there are also additional times when you can enter free of charge.

For example, the Picasso Museum is free to visit on the first Sunday of the month and also on Thursday evenings. Barcelona Cathedral (not to be confused with Sagrada Familia) is free to visit between 8.30 AM and 12.30 PM and in the evenings from 5.45 PM to 7.30 PM (hours vary a bit per day and on some days are a bit longer, but the hours indicated here apply daily).

Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA Plaça del Rei) is free on the first Sunday of the month and in the late afternoon on other Sundays.

These are just a few examples – there are so many museums and other attractions in Barcelona. So do your research for the places you want to see and, if possible, time your visit accordingly.

City Cards & Package Deals

If you are planning to visit several of the main Barcelona attractions on your own, you may want to look into getting one of the city cards that offer discounts and free entrances to certain attractions and also public transport tickets.

There is also a museum card that gives access to 6 of the most popular museums in Barcelona. So do your research and see if and which card makes sense for you, depending on your interests.

TIP: If you find the choice overwhelming, we recommend this Barcelona Pass . This is the best pass for Barcelona’s top sights including Park Güell & Sagrada Familia. If you also want to visit the towers of the Sagrada Familia (recommended), then this all-in pass is the best option for you. In case you wonder, there is a lift to get to the top of the towers.

Good to know: These passes not only save you money but make it really easy to book fast-track tickets to the most popular attractions in one place. Furthermore, the tickets are digital so you don’t have to waste your time once you get there!

3. Avoid High Season, Bank Holidays, and School Breaks

As one of the most-visited cities in Europe, Barcelona is always busy . Still, there is a huge difference between visiting Barcelona in the high season (June-August), in the shoulder season (April-May and September-October + New Year), or in the low season when there are fewer international travelers and hardly any cruise ships in town.

Because we travel with kids, however, we can only travel during school breaks. For years, we have been postponing a trip to Barcelona for that reason. However, we decided that it was high time to see this iconic city and chose the first week of November (autumn break) for our trip.

We were pleasantly surprised. It was still busy at the main attractions in the city, but it never really felt too crowded or overwhelming AND we had quite a few amazing places almost to ourselves.

Needless to say that this greatly influenced our experience and we loved Barcelona so much more than I ever expected. Based on all the horror stories about the crowds, we were really fearing the worst. But what we found was a really pleasant city that gave us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sights without having to brush elbows with thousands of strangers.

Furthermore, the weather in early November was fabulous with plenty of sunshine and temperatures that were warm enough to wear a t-shirt during the day.

So if you can, visit Barcelona in the shoulder season or in the low season. It will be so much more enjoyable!

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe

4. Stay in the City Center

Another very important thing to take into account when traveling to Barcelona is where to stay .

While it’s often tempting to choose cheaper accommodation further away from the city center, we have learned the hard way that it’s not the best idea. Yes, it can save you some money, but it will cost you time and comfort. It’s so easy if you can just walk to a nice restaurant for dinner from your hotel or sleep longer in the morning knowing that your tour starts right around the corner and not on the other side of town…

So if you are visiting Barcelona for the first time and want to make the most of your short trip, stay in the city center! Also, stay somewhat close to a metro station – that way you can always get to the other parts of town quicker.

We recommend staying in the area close to Plaça de Catalunya . It’s a perfect location for sightseeing and you can easily walk to most attractions in the old town or to the nicest Gaudi buildings… There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, and most tours and excursions start in this area.

Here are our hand-picked recommendations with an excellent location near Plaça de Catalunya for all budgets:

• If you are looking for a really nice place to stay in the heart of Barcelona, check out Ohla Barcelona , a fabulous 5* hotel with a rooftop pool and bar.
• Some of the best mid-range 4* hotels are Acta Atrium Palace and  Exe Plaza Catalunya .
• If you are on a l ower budget , check out these popular and highly-rated options with excellent locations: Hotel Lloret Ramblas (the best-rated and most popular budget hotel in the center) or  Hostal Boqueria (a very good, simple hotel on a low budget).

Where we stayed: We stayed at the Acta Splendid Hotel.  The location couldn’t be better and the price/quality was unbeatable for this area.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in central Barcelona (Plaça de Catalunya area).

Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. Check it out!

5. Explore the Gothic Quarter

One of the most beautiful parts of Barcelona is the old Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). No visit to the city would be complete without exploring this fascinating area.

While the district gets its name thanks to the 13-15th century Gothic buildings, it’s actually the oldest part of Barcelona with archeological finds dating to Roman times.

The main landmarks here are the Cathedral of Barcelona (The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia), Plaça del Rei , and the underground Roman city that is part of the earlier mentioned Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA). But the real charm of the Gothic Quarter is its fascinating maze of streets and historic buildings.

TIP: This part of town can get really busy. The best time to visit is as early in the morning as possible, or in the low season.

6. Use Barcelona Metro

Barcelona is a big city and its attractions are scattered throughout. So no matter where you stay, eventually, you’ll find yourself in need of a transfer. By far the easiest and the fastest way to get around the city is by taking the metro . And, if you avoid peak times, the metro is surprisingly quiet.

There are all kinds of multi-day and multi-journey tickets available for Barcelona metro and public transport, so choose one that best suits your needs. When we traveled, we got a 10-journey card that could be used by multiple people at the same time. Names and conditions of these cards change often, and you can find the best up-to-date information on the official website .

If you’re just taking the metro (so not a bus and other public transport options), you can easily get ticket cards at any metro station as well. There are ticket machines and everything is well-explained, also in English. Credit cards are accepted.

TIP: You can also take a metro to the airport , but it takes very long (it took us over 1.5 hrs to get to the city center). Alternatively, there are airport shuttle buses that run frequently, cost about the same as the metro ticket, and take much less time. On our way back to the airport, we took a taxi and it was surprisingly affordable. You can find more information about Barcelona airport transport here .

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Just as with any city trip, traveling to Barcelona means that you’ll be walking a lot. Make sure that you wear comfortable walking shoes!

Take my word for it, wrong footwear can ruin your entire vacation. Get lightweight sneakers or slip-on shoes for your Barcelona trip. I wear and recommend shoes in this style ; they are light and comfy – ideal for city trips.

TIP: If you don’t like walking too much, consider taking a hop-on hop-off bus instead.

8. Adjust Your Dining Schedule

You may have heard this before – Spanish people have very different habits when it comes to dining times. The main meal of the day is lunch and it usually starts at around 2 – 2.30 PM. Most restaurants will not open for dinner before 8 – 9 PM.

We were a bit worried about late dinner times because we traveled to Barcelona with kids, but it worked out quite well. Since it’s such a touristy place, there are quite some restaurants that have adapted their opening times and it was usually possible to find a place to eat at 7.30-8 PM.

We were told that the best local restaurants don’t open before 8.30-9 PM, but we found plenty of good restaurants that do.

That being said, you won’t easily find a good local restaurant open for dinner before 7 – 7.30 PM.

9. Try Tapas

No visit to Barcelona would be complete without tapas . In case you don’t know what tapas are, this is just a popular Spanish word for small snacks. Like appetizers in the US or antipasti in Italy. Basically, tapas are just small-sized portions of food – from seafood, meat, to all kinds of vegetables or potatoes ( patatas bravas ).

Everywhere you go, you’ll see tapas on the menu. It’s a great way to try a big variety of Spanish food without having to order an entire dish not knowing whether you’ll like it. It’s ideal if you are traveling with a bigger family or a group of friends because you can order a big variety of tapas and everyone will easily find something they like.

Some restaurants have set tapas menus which are a real lifesaver if you are feeling overwhelmed. After a couple of tapas meals, you’ll get more familiar with the concept, and ordering tapas will actually be fun.

Good to know: Tapas are EVERYWHERE in Barcelona, but they are not the only option (luckily). If you stay in Barcelona longer, it’s quite likely that you’ll eventually get tired of tapas. No worries – there are plenty of restaurants serving traditional Spanish food, seafood, paellas, but also a big variety of international cuisines. After five days in Barcelona, our kids didn’t want to see or hear of any more tapas, so we found a really nice pasta restaurant that the whole family loved.

TIP: If you want to try some of the best local dishes, consider joining a food tour as well! Food tours are our favorite thing to do when visiting any city! Check out this highly-rated tapas & wine tour . Another popular choice is this paella cooking experience + Boqueria market visit .

10. Tipping in Barcelona

Generally speaking, tipping is not that common in Europe, and so also not in Spain. However, American habits quickly find their way here too and it’s now more and more common to tip. That being said, it’s never really expected, let alone obligatory.

In Barcelona, you do not have to tip and locals usually don’t tip or just round up the bill. If you find the restaurant service exceptionally good, you can tip 5-10%. It’s not common to tip at a bar. Taxi bills are usually just rounded up. For bellboys – a euro or two is enough.

Many people tip tour guides, but it’s really your call how much. In Europe, we usually tip 20 EUR for a day tour that we take as a family of 5. If you are alone or traveling as a couple, 5-10 EUR is acceptable, but most Europeans don’t even do that.

11. It’s OK to Haggle

If you are planning to buy any souvenirs from street vendors, at the markets, or at the tourist shops in town, you should know that haggling is completely acceptable. Very often, you’ll see that no prices are advertised and in such cases, you definitely have to haggle or you’ll be overpaying up to twice the price, if not more.

It’s also very common that the same souvenirs will cost twice as much close to the most popular tourist landmarks, compared to some lesser-visited places. However, it’s not always the case.

My best advice is not to buy souvenirs immediately. Take your time, ask for prices, and get a better idea of what’s acceptable before buying anything.

12. Know That Things Are Laid Back

Barcelona is a very laid-back place. You’ll notice it in many ways. Depending on where you’re from and what you’re used to, things might seem a bit too relaxed, or maybe just normal…

The best way to enjoy your time in Barcelona is just go with the flow. Don’t get upset if it takes a bit longer for a waiter to take your order, or if the shops are closed for siesta a bit longer than advertised…

Good thing is that Barcelona is also much more casual in terms of clothing than, for example, Madrid. There is no need for fancy clothing and even at dinner at some nicer restaurants we dined at, most people were quite casually dressed. That being said, when in doubt, I’m always in favor of overdressing.

13. Beware of Pickpockets

Just as in any other big city or popular tourist destination, Barcelona has a problem with pickpockets. These guys are real professionals and it’s not uncommon that they manage to distract attention and even rob a big group of people at the same time.

So take precautions and don’t carry too much money or any other unnecessary valuables around. Also, make sure that you have good travel insurance! Be careful at the most popular tourist places, such as La Rambla or around La Sagrada Familia, and also when using public transport.

An anti-theft backpack might be a good idea too. Or – if you have a regular backpack – wear it in front of you and not on your back. Also, it’s really not a good idea to store your wallet or your smartphone in your jeans pocket.

14. Don’t Try to See Everything

Barcelona is a huge city and there is so much to see and do ! But… there’s no way to see everything in just a couple of days. So plan your itinerary well! If you don’t know where to start, check out our tips on how to spend 1 day in Barcelona and also an itinerary for 2 days in Barcelona .

I recommend choosing a couple of must-see places each day or maybe one specific area, and not try to do it all at once. You’ll enjoy the city much more if you also leave some time for a relaxing lunch at a nice café or some unexpected discoveries.

When it comes to visiting Barcelona, remember that less is more!

I know that it’s very tempting to try and see as many landmarks as you possibly can, but you’ll just get tired and frustrated. Take your time to sample some local specialties at the market, turn into a little picturesque alley and see where it leads, or explore some lesser-known places that don’t involve standing in line for hours… This brings us to the next tip…

15. Get off the Beaten Path

Barcelona is so much more than its most famous landmarks , La Rambla, Gothic Quarter, Barceloneta beach, or Gaudi architecture… There are so many other amazing places that are worth visiting just as much, yet are overlooked by most first-time visitors.

Some of our favorite moments in Barcelona were visiting the lesser-known and less-visited places . And while it’s not easy to find any truly ‘hidden’ gems, even just getting a bit off the main tourist routes will show you a very different side of Barcelona.

One of our favorite places in Barcelona was the beautiful Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site , which we had practically to ourselves. While it is not completely unknown, it was completely deserted when we visited it in the low season… And so worth a visit!

We particularly enjoyed the Port Vell and La Barceloneta – an old fishermen’s quarter with narrow streets and local restaurants. And yes, there is a really busy area in this part of town as well – with a seaside promenade, fancy yachts, and tourist restaurants. But if you take the time to explore deeper, you find a totally different place, just a few blocks away…

The same counts for the El Born and La Ribera areas which are like a labyrinth of narrow streets and passageways – so fun to just get lost and explore this area without a map.

We also went to a more local Poublenou area and explored Gracia , L’Eixample , and Montjuïc on foot. We visited some little-known sights and some really nice markets that had many more locals than tourists (Mercado de La Boqueria is really not the only market worth seeing in Barcelona)…

Each and every area has something special and unique. Behind the busier streets and popular areas, there are always lesser-visited gems just waiting to be discovered.

Even if you just see a few of these more local areas, it will make your trip to Barcelona so much more memorable.

16. Attend a Performance at Palau de la Música Catalana

If you want to experience something really special in Barcelona, try to get tickets for a performance at Palau de la Música Catalana . This stunning music hall is a real masterpiece and worth visiting in itself, but it’s even more special if you can attend a concert here.

They organize various concerts every evening and also during the day on the weekends. From classical music and dance to the most modern musical performances and traditional Flamenco dances – there are always plenty of choices to suit any interest. Most of the time, tickets are available just a few days in advance (or even on the day itself), so check the program and go. It will be totally worth it!

Good to know: You can also just visit the music hall itself. Self-guided and guided tours are available throughout the day and take less than an hour. Here you can get tickets for your visit .

17. Escape the Hustle of the City for a Day

Visiting a busy city like Barcelona can leave you exhausted, especially if you are not used to the crowds or if the summer heat becomes too much for you.

While most tourists head to Barceloneta beach , you’ll hardly find any locals there. The better beaches (nicer and also less crowded) can be found a bit further away. Try Playa de Bogatell if you don’t want to go too far. Or – outside of town – Platja de Castelldefels in the south or Platja de Badalona in the north of Barcelona.

The most popular day trip outside of the city is visiting Montserrat Monastery . Because it’s located in the mountains, the temperatures are usually cooler there too. We also took this day trip and here you can read all about our Montserrat tour .

These are just a few examples of places to visit outside the city. There are many more beautiful areas that you can visit on a day trip from Barcelona! Here are a few other popular options:

• Catamaran Sailing Tours (1.5-2 hrs)
• Kayaking & snorkeling (half a day)
• Hot air balloon flights (half a day)
• Vineyards near the city (half a day)
• Girona and Costa Brava (full day)
• Girona, Figueres and Dalí Museum (full day)
• 3 Countries in a Day (full day)

So if you are staying in town for more than 2-3 days, I suggest you take at least one day trip to see more of the surroundings or just to escape the crowds. As a minimum, rent a bike and drive along the beach – there is a beautiful waterfront promenade with bike paths that bring you to the quieter beaches and districts of Barcelona.

18. Stay Clear of Politics and Protests

Political protests in Catalonia are not uncommon. There were huge protests and even riots in Barcelona just a few days before our trip, and there were also some violent protests in the city while we were there.

But, in general, these protests don’t really influence your travel experience much (unless they block an airport, which happened once a few years ago).

My best advice is to just stay clear of any political protests. If you see any demonstrations, just walk around or take another street. Barcelona is a big city and the chances that you’ll find yourself amidst the protesters are really not that high.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some  more practical tips  to consider when traveling to Barcelona for the first time:

• You can  pay  by credit card pretty much everywhere, but it’s always useful to have some cash as well. Spain uses the EURO .
• If you don’t have a credit card with a chip and a 4-digit pin , check out this selection of  the best American credit cards for travel and get one – you’ll need a car with a pin everywhere in Europe. I recommend choosing  a card with no foreign transaction fees .
• While you can easily get around using English , it’s always useful to learn a couple of words of Spanish or Catalan. Hola (hello) and gracias (thank you) go a long way.
• Barcelona has a pretty good network of free WiFi with hundreds of access points throughout the city. Hotels and some restaurants also usually offer free wifi.
• Download an offline map of Barcelona using apps like Google Maps or Maps.me. It’s so much easier than a paper map and you can always easily find your way around.
• Make sure to pack a travel adapter . Spain uses  European plugs .
• Remember that many shops and markets are closed on Sunday . However, most museums and other attractions remain open. We chose to do a Gaudi tour on a Sunday and it worked out great.
• Pack comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the season. It can get really warm in Barcelona and sun protection is an absolute must in summer. Don’t forget your sun hat !
• Make a copy of your travel documents and send it to yourself by email (or save it in the cloud). As with any international trip, make sure that you have good travel insurance .

So, these are some of the most important practical tips that you should know when traveling to Barcelona for the first time.

Below, you can also find some frequently asked questions for your first visit to Barcelona. Take a look!

Barcelona Travel FAQs

The best time to visit Barcelona are the shoulder months between March and May and also from September to October. The weather is best for sightseeing and it’s not as busy as in the summer.

While you can see the main landmarks of Barcelona in one or two days, we recommend at least 3-4 days for your first trip to Barcelona. This will allow you to explore the city at a more relaxed pace, visit Gaudi buildings and a few museums, and maybe even take a tour to Montserrat.

Barcelona is a very popular destination, so it’s best to book your accommodation and the tours that you absolutely want to do in advance. Make sure to book skip-the-line tickets for the most popular landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia!

Yes, Barcelona is a safe destination. However, just like in any other big European city, you should be careful with pickpockets and common travel scams. If you are not sure about visiting certain areas at night, ask your hotel for advice.

We recommend staying in the area close to Plaça de Catalunya . The location is perfect for sightseeing and you can easily walk to the most popular attractions in the city center. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby. Most tours also start in this area.

Do you have any questions or maybe want to share your experience when visiting Barcelona? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!

More tips for your trip to Spain:

• Best Things to Do in Barcelona
• Barcelona 1 Day Itinerary
• How to See the Best of Barcelona in 2 Days
• Complete Guide to Visiting Montserrat
• Montserrat Tour Review
• Best Barcelona Gaudi Tour
• 1 Day in Seville
• 2 Days in Seville
• Flamenco in Seville
• One Day in Madrid: What to See & Itinerary
• Madrid to Toledo Day Trip

READ ALSO: Spain Bucket List: Top Places & Experiences

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More travel inspiration for European cities:

If you are visiting other European cities and are looking for in-depth information for your trip, take a look at some of our city guides:

• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Antwerp, Belgium
• Bern, Switzerland
• Bologna, Italy
• Brasov, Romania
• Brussels, Belgium
• Bruges, Belgium
• Bucharest, Romania
• Colmar, France
• Edinburgh, UK
• Florence, Italy
• Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Krakow, Poland
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Liverpool, UK
• Lucerne, Switzerland
• Manchester, UK
• Milan, Italy
• Naples, Italy
• Paris, France
• Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal
• Ravenna, Italy
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Rome, Italy
• Salzburg, Austria
• Siena, Italy
• Sintra, Portugal
• Venice, Italy
• Verona, Italy
• Read also our tips for traveling to Europe .

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Tuesday 13th of June 2023

Hi Jurga! I love your blog and I'm planning to visit Barcelona in October. Did the Acta Splendid charge you a resort fee in addition to the price of the room & tax?.....Elaine

Wednesday 14th of June 2023

Hi Elaine, I don't remember hotel charging us any special fees. When you book on Booking.com, it's always very clearly shown what's included. Usually, for most places, they already include the city tax in the price, or show you how much it will be. For Acta Splendid, if I try just random dates, I see that it shows me in the booking window that 10% VAT and City tax are included in the price. What sometimes happens is that you first get charged just for the room and then have to pay the taxes at the property separately. But the total price you see on Booking is usually the total of what you'll pay in the end (unless clearly stated otherwise). That's a big difference vs. booking with hotels directly. Most hotels don't show taxes in their price at first and then add it to your bill later. This way, you might think that you are paying less but, often, it's quite the opposite. Just one more reason why we always use Booking.com for all our accommodation bookings. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

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Your Barcelona Vacation

When a city getaway is calling, answer it with a vacation package to Barcelona. The neighborhood of Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, which is good for history, nature and cycling, makes an excellent base for your adventures. Sagrada Familia , La Rambla and Plaça de Catalunya are just some of the sights worth visiting during your trip to Barcelona. Whatever your travel plans or the size of your budget, putting together a tailored Barcelona vacation is a breeze with Expedia.

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Downtown Barcelona

Noted for its many shopping options, a beautiful cathedral and seaside attractions, there's plenty to explore in the heart of the Catalonian capital.

Gothic Quarter

Discover the historic heart of Barcelona in this labyrinthine quarter, featuring medieval landmarks, the remains of Roman walls, and the Barcelona Cathedral. Easily accessible via L4 Jaume I and L3 Liceu and Drassanes stations.

Characterized by long straight streets and a grid pattern, Eixample boasts iconic sights like Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, and Sagrada Família. The area is easily navigable, with wide avenues and chamfered corners.

Ciutat Vella

Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and l'Eixample, Ciutat Vella boasts historic sites like the Cathedral of Barcelona and Museu Picasso. Stroll along Les Rambles or dine at Els Quatre Gats in el Born.

Known for its pristine beaches and ample dining options, there's plenty to explore in Sant Martí. You can visit top attractions like Barceloneta Beach and Rambla del Poblenou, and jump on the metro at Pere IV Tram Stop or Fluvià Tram Stop to see more of the city.

Barcelona Beach Vacation

There's nothing like a Barcelona vacation to give yourself a little boost. The soothing sound of rolling surf and the smell of fresh sea air will rejuvenate your mind and body. To be close to the city center on your trip to Barcelona, find a hotel around Barceloneta Beach (just 1 mile (2 km) away). If you plan to stay for a bit, consider booking one of our Barcelona packages. Not only will you be able to save money, you'll also have other amazing beaches around you to explore, like Mar Bella Beach and San Sebastian Beach.

Things You Should Know About Barcelona

• If you want to stay just a short walk from the water, see what's available at these Barcelona beach hotels . There's sure to be something to suit your style.
• Many travelers also spend their getaway in apartments around these parts. Unique Rentals - Placa Catalunya and Petit Luxe The Dúplex are a few options that'll make your stay comfortable.
• Otherwise, let one of our All-Inclusive hotels in Barcelona deal with all the nitty-gritty details. That means more time for you to devote yourself to the pressing task of relaxing.
• Our Barcelona things to do page is a great place to begin planning your getaway to Barcelona. Once you arrive, strike up a conversation with one of the 1,621,500 locals to discover even more.
• Save on experiences with our Barcelona vacation deals. With major attractions such as Sagrada Familia to put on your to-do list, this popular destination will keep you busy.

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Gaudí’s basilica in the center of Barcelona is an architectural marvel and offers views across the city from eight towering spires.

These lively pedestrian streets in the heart of Barcelona are filled with flower stalls, tapas restaurants and street performers.

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This popular Barcelona meeting point connects the old city with the new and is famous for its shopping, monuments and festival celebrations.

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Solo Trip to Barcelona: An Epic Guide for Intrepid Solo Explorers

I f you’re planning a solo trip to Barcelona then you’ve come to the right place for information, recommendations, and advice to add to your Barcelona itinerary.

After visiting the city quite a few times you will pick up tips for visiting Barcelona and the best ways to explore the city as a solo traveler.

Barcelona is one of the most beautiful places in Europe with plenty of things to do, really good weather and absolutely delicious food.

In this Barcelona solo travel guide, you will find tips for exploring Barcelona alone, the best places to stay in Barcelona for solo travellers, and the best tours in Barcelona for solo travellers.

Reasons to Visit Barcelona Solo

1. lots of opportunities to meet people.

One of the best reasons to visit Barcelona as a solo traveller is that there are lots of opportunities to meet people and make new friends.

If you’re traveling alone, you may want to make friends whilst you’re at it. This is one of the best ways to step out of your comfort zone and explore a new place uniquely.

Often you will find that meeting new people will give you recommendations on things you didn’t think to do in the destination and trying new things.

In Barcelona, there are lots of opportunities for you to meet new people and you’ll find that most people are very friendly too. When visiting Barcelona solo you will find that people are really chatty everywhere so it isn’t a hard task to make friends at all.

You’ll find that you can meet people at hostels (if you’re staying in one), there’s lots of activities that are with groups to make friends and even when you’re out eating dinner, the casual setting makes it much more inviting to chat with others.

2. Plenty of activities for solo travelers

As we mentioned in the last point, there are lots of activities that welcome solo travellers together so that you have a good opportunity to meet new people.

You will never feel alone or homesick in Barcelona because there are so many different tours and activities to join that invite people to mingle.

Later in this post, you will find some tours that we particularly recommend for solo travellers in Barcelona.

3. Affordable hostels for solo travelers

There are a lot of different places to stay in Barcelona but if you’re a solo traveler then hostels are the best places to stay.

You will find that there are a lot of activities at the hostels that are for people to get to know each other. Depending on the hostel, you can often expect beer pong, karaoke and different parties.

There are often also culture-related activities such as free walking tours, and sangria/margarita-making classes and we’ve even seen some that offer paella-making classes too.

Another highlight of staying at these hostels is that for everything that is included with the hostel, they are often really affordable considering that Barcelona is a capital city.

The hostel vibe is one of the best reasons to visit Barcelona as a solo traveler. It makes for a really fun, affordable experience to explore a new city.

4. Great transport links

Sometimes when you venture to a new place as a solo traveller, it can be a little tricky to get around and the attractions are far apart from each other.

This is one of the reasons that we love Barcelona because a lot of the main sights are within walking distance of each other. The ones that are not at a good distance are easily accessible by public transport.

In Barcelona, you can use either the metro which is quite affordable, public bus, driving, taxis, uber, and the tourist bus too. This makes it easy and budget-friendly for any solo travellers exploring around Barcelona.

5. Awesome nightlife

For those who want to experience some of Barcelona’s nightlife, you’ll be delighted to know that it is one of the best places to let your hair down and have a good time.

There are plenty of secret bars within Barcelona, you just have to know where to look! Not just that but there are plenty of not-so-secret parties too! If you’re looking to party the night away then you’ve definitely come to the right place.

As always, if you’re planning to head out partying whilst you’re in Barcelona then you want to make sure you take measures to keep yourself safe traveling solo.

6. Lively atmosphere

Whether you choose to go out partying in Barcelona or not, you will find that the city has a very lively atmosphere making it hard to not fall in love.

Barcelona is mostly a bustling hub throughout the year so you will always find plenty of activity and it’s great for people-watching. There is something about walking through Barcelona and feeling the vibe of everyone buzzing and excitement around nearly every corner.

As the locals tend to eat much later in Spain, you will find that even late at night there is still excitement. You can walk into the street at 11 pm and you will still find locals casually eating and chatting for dinner.

7. Easy dining alone options

Following on from that, as a solo traveller, you will really enjoy the dining arrangements in Barcelona.

As dinner time is quite casual across Spain, you will find that locals will sit outside to enjoy their tapas dishes and take their time eating food.

Sometimes, eating alone when you’re abroad can be one of the most lonely feelings but when you’re in Barcelona, it is so common to eat late at night.

The casual vibe of dinner time in Barcelona, makes eating alone feel much less lonely. You will find yourself feeling relaxed and at ease.

Dinner time is also a very sociable experience in Barcelona so you may find that locals may want to chat with you across the tables. This is a great way to meet local people and learn more about Barcelona and Spain’s culture.

Is Barcelona safe to travel alone?

When you’re traveling on your own, one of the most important things to consider is your safety.

One of the downsides of traveling around Europe is being mindful of pickpockets when you’re out and about. Unfortunately, this is no different in Barcelona as much as we wish it wasn’t.

Some areas in Barcelona are considered higher risk for pickpockets than others. We would recommend taking more care around Las Ramblas when you’re exploring Barcelona. This area in particular can be a particularly unsafe area of Barcelona.

No matter where you’re traveling, you will often find that there are problems with pickpockets so it is always worth taking extra precautions.

Generally speaking, we found Barcelona to be a very safe destination to visit and experienced minimal problems. Like most places you visit, there are areas in which you need to be more cautious.

When you’re traveling in Barcelona solo, you will find that most people are really friendly and always up to help. Just as we say, keep an eye out for pickpockets, keep an eye on your drinks, watch out for tourist scams and you’ll be grand!

Is Barcelona Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Travelling as a solo female is a very different experience and you can sometimes encounter different safety concerns than you would as a male.

Amy felt very safe exploring Barcelona as a solo female traveller and didn’t experience any issues at all. No matter where you’re traveling, we would always suggest taking precautions for your safety.

This can include researching areas that could be unsafe, any tourist scams you need to keep an eye out for, etc. We would also suggest that whenever you’re traveling on your own as a female keep an eye on your drink at all times or look at purchasing tools to prevent your drink from being spiked.

In our opinion, Barcelona is a very safe destination for solo female travelers as long as you take the usual precautions. We would recommend avoiding wandering around the Las Ramblas area late at night on your own. Other than that, you shouldn’t have any concerns about traveling to Barcelona as a solo female traveler.

Tips for Exploring Barcelona Alone

1. purchase a go city pass.

When you’re traveling on your own, costs can soon start to add up for attractions. If you’re spending a few days in Barcelona then we recommend considering purchasing a Go City Pass for Barcelona.

These passes are really good value for money and something that Amy wishes she had known about when she visited Barcelona as a solo travelers.

We were able to save so much money using the Go City pass and it also enabled us to visit a lot more attractions by using it than Amy did when she was a solo traveler.

This is something that you can easily save up for and purchase before traveling to Barcelona. This gives you the peace of mind that once you arrive, you only need to budget money for food and souvenirs so you won’t need to carry around as much cash in Barcelona.

If you’re not certain that it will be worth the money, we recommend writing down all the attractions that you’re planning to visit in Barcelona and how much it would cost.

Then compare this against how much it would cost to purchase a Go City pass for the number of days that you are in the city. We are certain that you will find that it is much cheaper to purchase one of these passes.

Purchase a Go City Pass Here!

2. Stay in hostels

As a solo traveler, one of the best ways to enjoy the experience is by sharing it with other travelers and making new friends.

There are plenty of amazing hostels to stay in around Barcelona that you will be truly spoilt for choice. We really enjoyed staying in St. Christopher’s Inn because it had a lot of different free activities where you can get to know the culture and meet other solo travelers in the process.

3. Take part in tours for solo travelers

If you’re looking to meet some new people but you would rather stay in a hostel then there are also plenty of tours that you can join in so that you can make friends.

The one thing that we really enjoyed about Barcelona is that it is a really diverse place to explore so there is a little something for everyone.

Whether you are a foodie, art lover, drinks connoisseur or just looking for picturesque Instagrammable spots, you will find a tour for you. You’ll also find plenty of inspiration for catchy Barcelona captions to go with your Instagram post too!

Later in this guide, you will find some recommended tours specifically for solo travelers. This is where you will find tours that are great for exploring Barcelona and you don’t feel alone also.

4. Go on a free walking tour

If you have a low budget for traveling then you need to take advantage of some of the free activities in Barcelona . Joining a free Barcelona walking tour is a perfect way to get to know the city and save the pennies for other experiences.

You’ll get to find local knowledge about Barcelona, and have a guide on hand to answer any questions, and of course, it is completely free.

These tours are also perfect for anyone who has a short amount of time in Barcelona so that you can see a lot of the main sights in a short period of time.

5. Be careful around Las Ramblas late at night

We’ve mentioned a few times now that Las Ramblas isn’t the safest area of Barcelona, especially for a solo traveler.

However, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t visit Las Ramblas at all. It is one of the main areas to explore in Barcelona. It can be a bit of a trap for pickpockets so as long as you keep yourself protected against pickpockets, you shouldn’t have too much trouble.

If you’re walking back to your hostel late at night, where possible we would recommend avoiding walking down Las Ramblas alone. You can find that there are a few characters best to avoid in this area so it’s worth trying to get back a different route or getting yourself a buddy to walk home with or a taxi.

6. Purchase a Hola Barcelona Travel Card

As a solo traveler, expenses can soon add up for traveling around a city using public transport. We recommend purchasing a Hola Barcelona Travel Card in advance to save yourself money.

You can choose between 2 days (48 hours) up to 5 days (120 hours) and have unlimited use on the metros, funiculars, buses, trams, trains, and even the airport bus.

This travel card is well worth the money and a great way to save money in Barcelona. We discovered this travel card on the last full day of our trip to Barcelona and we wish we had found it much sooner. It would have saved us so much time and money!

PURCHASE YOUR HOLA BARCELONA TRAVEL CARD HERE!

7. Keep your bag close to you

You may have noticed that we’ve mentioned about pickpockets in Barcelona quite a few times. Unfortunately, pickpockets are common across Europe and other countries in the world.

When you’re out and about visiting busy tourist attractions, keep your bag as close to you as possible. If you’re wearing a backpack then try to wear it on your front to deter people from getting into your bag.

Alternatively, it might be worth considering getting an anti-theft cross-body bag for when you’re out during the day. Keep a close eye on your belongings and where possible, leave any valuables at home!

Best Places to Stay in Barcelona for Solo Travelers

As a solo traveler, it is really important to pick the right place to stay when you’re traveling, no matter where in the world it is.

When you’re traveling on your own, you can find that there are a lot of hotels that will charge the same price (if not more) for single occupancy. Often, it is much cheaper and better value for money to book a bed at a hostel.

With that in mind, hostels are not for everyone so we’ve created a list below of the best hotels and hostels for solo travellers in Barcelona.

You’ll find that with these recommended hotels and hostels for Barcelona, we have tried to keep them as budget-friendly as possible.

Best Hostels for Solo Travelers Barcelona

St. Christopher’s Inn

If you’re going to stay at any hostel in Barcelona then our first choice would be St. Christopher’s Inn . When we first arrived here, the first thing we noticed was that it was really clean. They had closed one of the floors to do a deep clean and it was reassuring to know that this is done regularly.

We really enjoyed that there was an on-site bar and restaurant so if you’re exhausted from backpacking, this is an easy place to stop and grab a bite to eat.

It is a really sociable hostel with plenty of communal areas for you to mingle and chat with other travelers. There is also a pool table in the bar area which is great fun to talk to people and enjoy a friendly game.

There are also lots of activities to enjoy which is a great way for travelers to meet each other. At the time we visited, there were walking tours, paella cooking classes, and cocktail-making lessons.

The only downside that we would say with staying at St. Christopher’s Inn is that they have these eco-friendly showers which have a 1 minute timer on them. When you’re showering, you need to keep pressing the button to activate the shower which makes it difficult when you’re juggling your toiletries etc.

We did find that the lockers were under the bed and you had to pull the crate all the way out to store your items. They were also metal bars with holes in so you had to be really careful that nothing fell into the crate otherwise it would get lost under the bed. However, the lockers were quite large so you could fit a lot of things in them.

The dorm rooms have quite a few travelers in them but this is not always a bad thing as it’s an opportunity to meet more people. With such a central location, this hostel is a great place to stay for solo travelers, especially for those who are looking for a more social experience.

• Really clean
• Central location
• Great activities
• On-site bar
• Large dorm rooms
• Timer on showers
• Under the bed lockers

Safestay Barcelona Gothic

The Gothic Quarter is a great area to explore within Barcelona and this hostel is located right in the middle of it! This is a really great location to explore Barcelona and is recommended for ease of wandering.

We found that the social areas are really well put together with a ping-pong table to encourage other travelers to mingle with each other. There are also hammocks in the outside communal area which are great for chilling during the summer.

Unfortunately, not all of the dorm beds have curtains which can be a bit of a downside for privacy. We don’t know about you for some reason, but having a curtain around your bed makes you feel much more secure.

There are a lot of friendly activities available at this hostel as well which is a great way to explore the city, learn more about Barcelona’s culture, and of course meet other travelers.

• Great communal area
• Plenty of sociable activities
• Very good location
• Affordable breakfast options
• Not all dorm beds have curtains
• Limited kitchen facilities

Primavera Hostel

If you’re a solo traveler that likes to have their own space then having a private room at Primavera Hostel is a great place to stay in Barcelona.

Staying in a dorm room isn’t for everybody so staying at this hostel, you will have a private experience for an affordable cost. You will also be able to enjoy the social aspects of a hostel without sharing your space too.

There are dorm rooms available at the hostel but the private rooms are absolutely beautiful. The one thing that we really like about this hostel in particular is that it has a really homely vibe.

The kitchen is large with plenty of space for anyone that would prefer to cook food at the hostel. There are not many downsides that we can say about this hostel. It is a really great choice for your stay in Barcelona!

In honesty, the reviews speak for themselves regarding Primavera Hostel and it is amazing to see a hostel done right!

• Great location
• Lots of Private rooms
• Homely vibe
• Large kitchen
• Well reviewed
• Not a very sociable hostel
• No air-conditioning

Best Hotels in Barcelona for Solo Travelers

As we say, hostels are not for everyone and some people like to have their own space or maybe a little bit more or maybe a little more introverted.

It can be hard to find an affordable hotel as a solo traveler especially as they are often the same price (sometimes more) than if there were two of you staying in a room.

We’ve added some details for hotels that are really good for solo travelers and in a good location for the main attractions in Barcelona.

• Kimpton Vividora Hotel

This hotel is a great option for any solo travelers who are looking to enjoy a bit of luxury for their trip to Barcelona.

With a beautiful rooftop terrace overlooking the Sagrada Familia, this is a great option for anyone who is not on a low budget for their trip to Barcelona.

While Kimpton Vividora Hotel is a bit more of an expensive option for when you’re staying in Barcelona, it is definitely well worth the money.

Located close to the metro station, you will easily be able to get around Barcelona. There are lots of communal areas so it will make it much easier for you to meet new people whilst you’re traveling.

• Motel One Barcelona Ciutadella

For any solo travelers who are looking for a nice place to stay but also are on a bit more of a budget, Motel One in Barcelona is a great choice for you .

With a 24-hour lounge area, you will find that it is an amazing area to meet other travelers. You will also get to enjoy a delicious continental breakfast to start your day in Barcelona.

While this motel isn’t located directly in the center, it is very close to the metro station so you will still easily be able to get around Barcelona.

In our opinion, if you’re a solo traveler in Barcelona on a little bit more of a budget then this would be our recommendation. We find that the Motel looks as though it should be more expensive than it is with its modern vibe and beautiful decor.

Best Tours in Barcelona for Solo Travels

If you’re exploring Barcelona as a solo traveler then when you’re picking tours to join in on you want to be able to mingle with other people and not feel uncomfortable traveling alone.

We’ve included a mixture of tours below that are for small groups where you will be able to meet other travelers. You will also find a lot of tours that are much more hands-on which is always a great talking point.

You will be able to explore day tours in Barcelona that include food, culture, must-visit sightseeing spots, and some incredible bucket list tours that you need to tick off your list!

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Food Tours in Barcelona

One of the best ways to get to know a destination is by exploring the incredible local food. These tours below will give you the more incredible experience of making your own Tapas and paella and also different tasting tours!

These are great for solo travelers as you will meet other people on these tours and be able to take part in a group activity!

• Barcelona Tipsy Tapas Guided Food Tour with Dinner

For any solo travelers in Barcelona who want to experience a bit of the city’s nightlife as well as go on a tasting adventure, this is the perfect tour for you.

You will get to try different beers, cava, shots, and wine on this tour as well as plenty of yummy tapas dishes along the way.

These tours are very good for when you’re traveling alone because they are a really sociable experience where it is encouraged to make friends and chat with each other.

Price – £56.56 / $71.69 / 66.65 euros

BOOK YOUR TIPSY TAPAS TOUR HERE!

• Paella Barcelona: Market Visit, Tapas, Sangria & Paella Class

Whether you have tried Paella before or this is your first time, this is the ultimate experience for you to try as a solo traveler in Barcelona.

In a group setting, you will visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients to make your paella. Once you arrive back, you will get to know the other group members better while enjoying some delicious tapas and sangria.

You’ll then delve into making the paella from scratch learning plenty of tips and tricks from the chef along the way.

Dive into Barcelona’s food culture uniquely by learning to make your own paella and Sangria whilst meeting some other travelers while you’re at it!

BOOK YOUR PAELLA COOKING CLASS HERE!

• Barcelona Tapas & Wine Experience Small-Group Walking Tour

If you’re someone who likes to try new food but not so keen on making it yourself then this is a great intimate tour for you to join.

In this small group tour, you will get to explore different hotspots that serve some of the best tapas in Barcelona. You’ll try different tapas dishes at each restaurant paired with different wine selections.

This sociable tour is a perfect way to enjoy an authentic experience in Barcelona while expanding your tastebuds at the same time!

If you wish to do so, you can also upgrade to end the tour with a Flamenco show making a recipe for a perfect afternoon/evening in Barcelona.

BOOK YOUR BARCELONA TAPAS & WINE EXPERIENCE HERE

Unique Experiences in Barcelona

For any solo travelers that are looking to try something a little different in Barcelona then you might find that these tours are of interest.

As a solo traveler, it can sometimes be difficult to find tours that are good for when you’re traveling alone and to meet other people.

The tours that we’ve included are sociable experiences that enable you to see Barcelona in a unique light.

• Barcelona Sailing Cruise with Light Snacks & Open Bar

If you’ve seen a lot of Barcelona by land then why not get a different perspective of Barcelona by seeing the highlights from the sea?

This tour is perfect during the hot weather to enjoy the sea breeze and look out at the beautiful cityscape of Barcelona. Another perk is that snacks and an open bar are included in the price.

You can choose between wine, cava, beer, and soft drinks at the open bar but this is most suited if you’re planning to drink some alcohol to make the most of it.

It is a really sociable tour where you will be able to revel in the beauty of Barcelona with strangers and depart the luxury yacht as friends.

BOOK YOUR BARCELONA SAILING CRUISE HERE!

• Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes Barcelona in La Rambla

One of Amy’s favorite experiences from her solo trip to Barcelona was enjoying a Flamenco show. Whilst this isn’t as much of a sociable experience as the other tours as generally speaking you’re just appreciating the dancing.

However, it is an experience where you don’t need to be with other people to be able to enjoy it. This is a great insight into Barcelona’s culture from a different perspective and admire the incredible dance of Flamenco.

For this particular tour, you can upgrade to include dinner and drinks too so you can make a whole evening of it if you wish to do so. Even if you don’t choose this tour, we highly recommend attending a Flamenco show before you leave Barcelona!

BOOK YOUR BARCELONA FLAMENCO SHOW HERE!

• Girona & Dali Museum Small Group Tour with Hotel Pick-Up from Barcelona

Take some time outside of Barcelona itself and head to Girona and Figueres for a unique adventure.

On this tour, you will get to explore the Jewish Quarter of Girona learning as you go. Here, you will learn more about the ancient Roman history within Girona and expand your mind.

When you visit Figueres you will get a chance to wander around the Dali museum and learn more about the artwork on display. As Dali’s hometown was in Figueres, you will also be able to walk in his footsteps and see some of the inspiration for Dali’s work.

There is a maximum of 8 tourists for this tour so you will be in a small group which is a great way to make new friends through the love of art.

BOOK YOUR GIRONA & DALI TOUR HERE!

Sightseeing Tours in Barcelona

If you’re looking to see more of Barcelona, and get more information from expert guides in a group atmosphere then these group of tours will be great for you.

Explore Gaudi’s Barcelona, museums, the Montserrat monastery, or a combined tour where you get to see the highlights of Barcelona!

• Sagrada Familia & Montserrat Small Group Tour with Hotel Pick-Up

One of the biggest highlights of visiting Barcelona is to see Gaudi’s famous Sagrada Familia. The Sagrada Familia is still under construction and has been a work in progress since 1882 and it is set to be complete over the next few weeks.

This is a great tour to be able to explore this incredible Basilica and learn more about its construction and Gaudi himself.

Another perk of this tour is that you will head up to the top of the mountain to see the Montserrat monastery. This is a really unique experience for you to do as a solo traveler.

Whether you choose to do this tour or not, we would highly recommend visiting Montserrat during your time in Barcelona. This was one of Amy’s personal highlights during her solo trip to Barcelona. The views from the top of the mountain are worth it alone!

BOOK YOUR SAGRADA FAMILIA & MONTSERRAT TOUR HERE!

• Complete Gaudi Tour: Casa Batllo, Park Guell & Sagrada Familia

When you’re in Barcelona, Gaudi is everywhere you look and there’s no escaping his works but for good reason.

The work that Gaudi completed throughout Barcelona is one of the reasons why it is such a popular destination to this day. Even now, the Sagrada Familia is still under construction, long after Gaudi has passed.

On this complete Gaudi tour, you will visit Gaudi’s most famous and popular pieces of work. These are things that you cannot miss whilst you’re visiting Barcelona so it is definitely worth doing a combined tour to be able to see it all before you leave Barcelona.

Your tour also includes skip-the-line access to these attractions so you will save a lot of time queuing. With a local guide, you will also learn a lot about the construction of the buildings by Gaudi and the significance they hold for Barcelona.

BOOK YOUR COMPLETE GAUDI TOUR HERE!

• Montserrat with Cogwheel Train, Tasting in a Boutique Winery with Tapas or Lunch

We mentioned in the other tour that included Montserrat that you should definitely make sure that it is a part of your Barcelona itinerary before you leave.

This tour focuses mostly on Montserrat and you will get to enjoy some unique experiences whilst you’re at the top of the mountain.

Another highlight of this tour is that you will also get to enjoy a wine tasting whilst you’re visiting Montserrat. This is great for solo travellers as you will be able to enjoy wine tasting in a safe environment.

This is an incredible guided tour where you will get to enjoy beautiful views, learn something new and try delicious food and wine whilst you’re at it!

BOOK YOUR MONTSERRAT TOUR HERE!

• Barcelona in One Day: Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell & Old Town with Hotel Pick-Up

If you’re only in Barcelona for a limited amount of time then you want to try and make the most of it as much as possible. With this particular tour, you will be able to visit the highlights of Barcelona in a short period of time.

This tour will take you past a lot of main attractions in Barcelona so that you can see some of the top sights. You will also get to enjoy beautiful views from the top of Montjuic Mountain and enjoy a walking tour through the Gothic Quarter.

You can choose to enter Parc Guell and Sagrada Familia during your tour which are some of the main tourist attractions within Barcelona.

This tour is perfect for any solo travellers that have limited time in Barcelona and want to make the most of the time that they have!

BOOK YOUR BARCELONA IN ONE DAY TOUR HERE!

Bucket List Experiences in Barcelona

Just because you’re traveling on your own in Barcelona, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t get to enjoy some of the most amazing ways to see Barcelona.

Below you will find some really unique, bucket list experiences that you can enjoy in Barcelona making your solo trip unforgettable!

• 360o Barcelona: Old Town Walking, Helicopter Flight & Sailing Small Group Tour

Take the unique opportunity to be able to experience Barcelona by land, sea, and air by taking part in this incredible bucket list tour in Barcelona.

You will get to learn more about Barcelona by enjoying a guided tour through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. This is one of the most picturesque areas of Barcelona and you’ll learn more about Barcelona’s cathedral and the legends that surround this area.

After you’ve experienced some of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, you will also get to explore more of the city itself and go to the top of the Christopher Columbus statue. This offers some beautiful panoramic views of the city so that you can see it from a unique perspective.

Now for the ultimate bucket list experience, soar in the air with a helicopter ride over Barcelona taking in all the views. The helicopter ride is around 6 minutes long but for the price of this whole tour, you absolutely cannot grumble at that!

To end your day trip, you will join a sailing tour so that you can see Barcelona from the sea. You’ll enjoy the sea breeze running through your hair and seeing the skyline from the boat.

Overall, this is a really unique tour where you will get to see Barcelona in a completely different light. It is also incredible value for money too so it is well worth the cost!

Price – £117.46 / $149.08 / 137.79 euros

BOOK YOUR TOUR IN ADVANCE HERE

• Hot-Air Balloon Flight Over Catalonia with Optional Pick-Up from Barcelona

We don’t know about you but getting to see a city from a hot balloon is an ultimate bucket list experience that we are dreaming about.

There is no better place than to experience a hot air balloon ride than while you’re visiting Barcelona. You can arrange for a pick-up from Barcelona to soar high over Catalonia.

When you’re in the air, you will be able to see the top of Montserrat and Pyrenees Mountains. This tour takes place early in the morning so you will get to see the beautiful colours over the sky.

Once you’ve been in the air for an hour and a half, you will float back down to the ground to enjoy some delicious brunch and a champagne toast. This is a great way to celebrate ticking off a bucket list adventure during your time in Barcelona.

BOOK YOUR HO T AIR BALLOON RIDE HERE!

• Andorra, France & Spain: The Original Three Countries Tour

If you’re an avid traveler like us then you may want to be trying to tick off as many countries as possible. This tour is the perfect way to do just that while you’re visiting Barcelona.

With this tour, you will get to explore 3 different countries in the space of one day which is almost unheard of!

Departing from Barcelona, you will be transferred to the small Spanish town of Baga. You will be taken on a small walking tour to enjoy the beauty of Baga before jumping back on the bus to the next destination.

France will be the next location on the list where you will be taken to the ancient spa town of Thermes d’Ax. There are plenty of gorgeous fountains that are thought to contain healing waters. After enjoying some free time, you will be able to wander around some of the traditional French shops and enjoy a delicious French lunch.

On your way to Andorra, you will journey through the stunning Pyrenees Alps offering some gorgeous views to top off your trip. You’ll head into the capital of Andorra; Andorra la Vella where you will have plenty of time to wander and take in your 3rd country in a day.

One of the things that we like the most about this tour is that it is not just the scenery in each country that you get to see but also the views along the way too. They will also take another route back to Barcelona so that you can experience some different dramatic views along the way.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or not, this is an ultimate bucket list tour that you absolutely should not miss whilst you’re visiting Barcelona!

BOOK YOUR 3 COUNTRIES IN A DAY TOUR HERE!

Conclusion: Is Barcelona Good for Solo Travel?

There you have it, all the information that is important for visiting Barcelona as a solo traveler. The question that remains; is Barcelona good for solo travel?

Barcelona has such a diverse culture for you to experience and plenty of opportunities for solo travelers to join in on group tours at affordable prices.

There are so many different things to do in Barcelona that you won’t be twiddling your thumbs wondering what to do next or where you should go.

As a lot of solo travelers visit Barcelona every year, there are plenty of options for you to choose from for accommodation. You’ll also find that it is a really safe location to walk around alone too.

Do you have any other tips for exploring Barcelona as a solo traveler? Pop them in the comments to help support other travelers to have the best experience in Barcelona.

About the Authors: Amy & Liam are the two halves that make up  Plain2Plane ; a travel blog for couples exploring on a budget. Nowadays, the 9-5 life is becoming outdated so Plain2Plane set about traveling as much as they can in their spare time and inspiring other couples that they can do the same too!

The post Solo Trip to Barcelona: An Epic Guide for Intrepid Solo Explorers appeared first on Dreams in Heels - Travel and Lifestyle Blog by a Latina Abroad .

One Week in Barcelona: Perfect 7-Day Itinerary (1st time visit)

7 days in barcelona: the best one week itinerary + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend one week in Barcelona and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you the perfect itinerary to visit Barcelona in 7 days.

During your stay, you will of course discover the city’s best places to visit such as the Sagrada Familia , Park Güell and Casa Batlló, but also hidden gems of Catalonia’s capital.

First, I will give you all my best tips to skip the long waiting lines at the city’s must famous monuments and tourist attractions. You will see, you will save a lot of time!

Then, I will give you my optimized one week itinerary to make the most of your stay in the Barcelona.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Barcelona in a week? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The Barcelona City Pass

7-8 days in barcelona: must-see attractions:, 3. the barcelona card, one last tip for a perfect 7-day stay in barcelona, a. the cathedral of saint eulalia and the gothic quarter, b. stroll along la rambla avenue, c. boqueria market, d. casa batlló, e. casa milà, f. attend a flamenco show, a. park güell, b. bunkers del carmel, c. recinta modernista de sant pau, d. sagrada familia, e. the el born neighborhood, a. plaça espanya, b. the mnac, c. montjuic park, d. the olympic installations, e. visiting montjuic castle, f. tapas at plaça espanya and the magic fountain, a. port vell, b. passeig maritim, c. olympic port, d. a walk in ciutadella park, e. santa maria del mar basilica, day 5 – a day at port aventura, day 6 – visit montserrat, day 7 – the costa brava, where to stay in barcelona, visiting barcelona for 1 week with family, more ideas for things to do and see in barcelona in 1 week, map of your 7-day itinerary in barcelona, heading to barcelona for a week: prices of flights, you’re traveling in spain these articles will help you, my best tips to save time at barcelona’s must-see attractions.

If we were to rank the most touristy European cities , Barcelona would certainly be right up there alongside Florence, London , and Rome , for example.

And if there’s one must-see attraction everyone wants to visit during their one-week stay in Barcelona , it’s undoubtedly the Sagrada Familia! Every day, hundreds of people wait sometimes for hours to enter.

Well, that’s because they haven’t followed my advice!😋

There are actually 3 ways to skip lines at the most popular sites and save a lot of time during your one week trip to Barcelona.

And I am going to tell you all about it right away!

To make the most of your one week stay in Barcelona, your first option is to buy the the Barcelona City Pass .

Getting the Barcelona City Pass allows you not only to skip the queue, but also to save a lot of money !

You need to purchase it in advance online , as all skip-the-line tickets are sent to you by email . It’s super convenient, as you’ll then just have to show them on your smartphone at the entrance of the tourist attractions.

Another advantage of the Barcelona City Pass is that it has no time limit . Once activated, you can use it for your entire stay in Barcelona.

If you’re looking for the most complete and convenient pass for visiting Barcelona in a week, the Barcelona City Pass is what you need!

Here are the best visits included:

• Sagrada Familia skip-the-line ticket: during the purchase, you’ll be asked to choose a date and time for your visit. It’s mandatory to as you will need to opt for a time slots.
• A skip-the-line ticket for Park Güell. You’ll be asked for the date and time of your visit for the park too.
• A ticket for the hop-on hop-off bus
• An audioguide, to learn about more than 100 points of interest in the city
• Discounts on attractions and certain museums: those for Casa Batlló and Casa Milà are especially useful! A 10% discount code will be sent to you after purchasing the Barcelona City Pass. You will then need to book your visits on the same site to use the promo code.

To purchase your Barcelona City Pass, simply click the green button below:

2. Skip-the-Line Tickets for Barcelona Tourist Attractions

The second solution to get priority access at Barcelona’s must-see attractions is to purchase skip-the-line tickets one by one , for each visit you want to do.

You will find tickets online for  the most museums and monuments  as well as  guided visits and  activities. 

By purchasing them using these links,  you are 100% sure to get the official tickets.

To check the prices and to book, just  click   on the links below  (you’ll also find them throughout the article):

• Casa Batlló
• Gaudi’s 3 Houses Pass
• Flamenco Show
• Sant Pau Recinte Modernista
• Sagrada Familia skip-the-line
• Sagrada Familia guided tour in English
• Barcelona Museum Pass
• Montjuic Cable Car
• Palau de la Musica Catalana
• Hop-on Hop-off Tourist Bus

The last option for your 7 days in Barcelona is to purchase the Barcelona Card . However, I will only mention it briefly as it’s not the best choice.

This card allows you to use public transport for free and gives you discounts at city museums like the Picasso Museum.

With the itinerary I propose, the cost of the Barcelona card won’t be recovered , as it’s not necessary to frequently use the bus or metro. I’ve intentionally grouped certain visits together so you don’t have to walk too much!

And if you want to take the bus/metro, it’s cheaper to get the 10-trip pass sold at machines at the entrance of metro stations.

The Barcelona Card also doesn’t include fast-track access to the most visited places like the Sagrada Familia.

If this 7-8 day trip to Barcelona is your first time in the city , I recommend you to get either the Barcelona City Pass or purchasing skip-the-line tickets one by one.

However, if you’re already familiar with the city and its must-sees, and your plan is focused on the museums , feel free to click on the following green button to see if the Barcelona Card suits you:

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As Barcelona is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Barcelona by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in Barcelona.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in Barcelona, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

7 Days in Barcelona: The Best Itinerary

Let’s now start your 1 week Barcelona itinerary!

For each day, I will give you all the details you need to plan your visits + a map that will allow you to visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming you will be staying in Barcelona for a full week and that you will be using the Barcelona City Pass or skip-the-line tickets in advance. It’s the best way to save time and money during your stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the very end of this article.

I will be glad to help you plan your trip 😄.

So, How to visit Barcelona in 7 days?

Day 1 – The Historic Center of Barcelona

Day 1 visits:

A. The Cathedral of Saint Eulalia and the Gothic Quarter B. La Rambla C. Boqueria Market D. Casa Batlló E. Casa Milà F. Flamenco show

The Gothic Quarter of Barcelona is the perfect first stop to start a one-week journey in Barcelona.

Locally known as the “Barrio Gòtico,” this quarter is one of the most famous and visited areas of the city. It’s a lovely medieval district and also the historical center of the capital.

Here, you can’t miss the imposing Cathedral of Saint Eulalia, a gothic wonder. I recommend visiting as it’s very interesting.

If you get the chance, also try not to miss the artistic performances (including Sardana dances) that take place every Saturday at 6 PM and Sunday at 11 AM in the cathedral square.

In the Gothic Quarter, you can also stroll around and discover the labyrinth of alleyways , admiring along the way:

• Plaça Sant Jaume
• Plaça del Rei (King’s Square)
• Barcelona History Museum
• Plaça del Pi.

If you wish to, you can also start your trip to Barcelona with a guided tour.

It’s a great way to get a first impression of the city !

You can opt for the traditional walking tour, or go for something more fun, like a tuktuk, Segway or GoCar tour. Simply click on the links below for more information and to book:

• Walking tour of the Old Town and Gothic Quarter to discover the places I’ve just mentioned, such as Sant Jaume and the Plaça del Rei.
• Guided tour of Barcelona by bike or E-bike. This tour is super comprehensive, as you’ll discover 25 must-see sites such as Ciutadella Park and the Sagrada Familia.
• Visit Barcelona by electric tuk tuk
• Visit Barcelona by GoCar with integrated GPS
• Segway tour

And if you’re looking for an exceptional experience as soon as you arrive in the city, I’d definitely recommend a helicopter flight! You’ll have the chance to see the impressive Sagrada Familia from above 😎

Click here to book your helicopter flight in Barcelona.

You may have already heard of La Rambla, the grand pedestrian avenue in Barcelona that connects the port to Plaça de Catalunya . You can reach it in just 10 minutes on foot from the Barrio Gotico.

La Rambla is a must during a one-week stay in Barcelona. It’s very lively, hosts numerous street artists and is lined with restaurants, shops, and cafes .

For this journey, I suggest you first walk down towards the port.

On the way, you should see:

• Gran Teatre del Liceu (the city’s oldest theater)
• Joan Miró mosaic
• Plaça Reial.

Then head back towards Plaça Catalunya. En route you can see the Canaletes fountain and Palau de la Virreina with its temporary exhibitions.

Along La Rambla, you’ll also find the famous Boqueria Market with its entrance marked by a grand Art Deco archway.

It’s a picturesque market, the oldest in the city.

I suggest taking a tour to discover and taste Catalan specialties , tapas, and fresh fruit. The market is often crowded, except in the morning between 8 AM and 10 AM when it’s calmer.

Do you enjoy slightly unusual guided tours ?

Then you can choose the special market tour accompanied by a chef who then prepares tapas and paella to share right in front of you.

Book directly by clicking here!

Continue the tour by now heading to Passeig de Gracia . This street is a 5-minute walk from Plaça de Catalunya.

I’m taking you here to guide you to one of the major attractions of Barcelona: Casa Batlló, a masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí.

This symbol of Barcelona is recognized for its very unique architecture full of curves, characteristic of Gaudí’s work. This villa is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and it’s open for interior visits as well.

Avoid the never-ending queue at Casa Batlló’s entrance by purchasing your ticket in advance.

Don’t forget that with the Barcelona City Pass you received a promo code for 10% off, also valid for visiting Casa Batlló through Tiqets’ website.

Next, I suggest continuing your tour along Passeig de Gracia, heading a little further north.

In 6-7 minutes, you’ll arrive in front of another villa conceived by Gaudí: Casa Milà . Equally essential as the last, Casa Milà features a striking white facade with flowing lines.

Here too, you should visit the interior to immerse yourself in the architect’s genius across the building’s 5 different floors.

And at the very top on the villa’s rooftop terrace , you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire district.

Here as well , remember to purchase your Casa Milà entry ticket on Tiqets and take advantage of the discount you get with your Barcelona City Pass.

For an unusual visit , choose a nighttime entry ticket. The night tour starts at 9 PM and includes audiovisual projections with a complimentary glass of Champagne.

You can purchase this nighttime entry ticket by clicking here .

What better way to end your first day in Barcelona than by attending a flamenco show?

Performances take place year-round in the city’s tablaos , intimate venues where you can eat, have a drink, and enjoy musical performances.

I especially recommend “Los Tarantos”, one of the oldest and most famous tablaos in the city. It’s located on Plaça Reia, very close to the Rambla.

You can book your flamenco evening simply by clicking here!

If tickets are sold out, here are some other places to see a flamenco show during your stay in Barcelona (click on the orange links to book):

• City Hall, in the theater of Barcelona City Hall
• At the tablao Flamenco Cordobes, in Rambla district
• Tablao de Carmen, located in Poble Espanyol district.

What to Do and See in Barcelona on the Second Day?

Visits for Day 2:

A. Park Güell B. Bunkers del Carmel C. Recinta Modernista de Sant Pau D. Sagrada Familia E. El Born District

After a good night’s sleep, I suggest you start this second day with a stroll in Park Güell.

Also born from the imagination of Antoni Gaudí , it was built in the early 1900s. It represents another major and iconic work of the architect in Barcelona.

Park Güell is located to the north of the city and is divided into two sections . One part is free while the other has an entrance fee.

In the paid area (called “Monumental”), you’ll be able to admire famous works by Gaudí including a serpentine bench covered in mosaic , a salamander, and tree trunk-shaped columns.

I recommend getting there early in the morning to have enough time to visit everything at a leisurely pace.

To get to Park Güell, take line 3 of the metro and get off at Vallcarca.

Access to the park is included in the Barcelona City Pass, otherwise you can also get your skip-the-line ticket right here.

You should really book in advance because there is a limited number of entries each day.

To make sure you don’t miss any of the park’s best spots, you can also opt for a guided walking tour organized by Barcelona’s tourist office . You’ll find all the information you need and be able to book by clicking here!

After spending the morning in the park, I now suggest you head to Bunkers del Carmel , about a 20-minute walk away .

It’s one of the best viewpoints in Barcelona with a 360° view over the entire city.

This former anti-aircraft base set at an altitude of 262 meters is located on Turo de la Rovira. Access is free and open to all.

For example, you might want to bring a picnic and lunch up there to have a pleasant time and recharge!

In a 30-minute walk, proceed to Recinta Modernista de Sant Pau.

This former public hospital now hosts exhibitions and it’s possible to visit the various buildings that tell the story of the place.

But it’s already worth a look just for its architecture and facade!

Entry tickets are available here, if you’re tempted by the visit.

It’s the ultimate emblem of the Catalan capital and the city’s flagship monument: Sagrada Familia is unmissable during your 7-day circuit in Barcelona.

A masterpiece by Gaudí, this spectacular basilica is the most visited monument in Spain . It’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and embodies a luxurious blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture.

Don’t forget that your Barcelona City Pass grants you priority entry to Sagrada Familia. Just that is a good enough reason to buy it!

Otherwise, without the Pass, a skip-the-line ticket is mandatory to avoid spending hours in line. You can purchase it here.

And of course, if you would like to find out more about the history of this impressive monument , I recommend you to book a guided tour of the Sagrada Familia by clicking here.

As the day comes to an end, I suggest winding down in the El Born neighborhood .

This quaint medieval district , along with the Gothic Quarter, forms Barcelona’s old town . It’s also a very trendy area where you can enjoy a pleasant evening at one of the fashionable tapas bars or restaurants .

Other things to do in the El Born district:

• Admiring the Gothic churches
• Visiting the Picasso Museum
• Visiting the Palau de la Musica (one of the most beautiful concert halls in the world!).
• Discover the MOCO museum , dedicated to contemporary art. There, you can especially admire works by Banksy and Andy Warhol.
• Enjoy a tasting of 5 Catalan and Spanish wines.

Day 3 – Barcelona’s Points of Interest to Visit

Visits for day 3:

A. Plaça Espanya B. The MNAC C. Montjuic Park D. The Olympic installations E. Montjuic Castle F. Plaça Espanya and the Magic Fountain

For this third day of your one-week itinerary in Barcelona, head over to Plaça Espanya.

Constructed in 1929, it was designed by another great Spanish architect: Puig y Cadafalch . It’s somewhat the Barcelona equivalent of Place de l’Étoile and it’s the starting point for today’s other visits .

This square is also surrounded by several buildings and convention halls, including “Las Arenas,” a former bullring converted into a shopping center.

 You should definitely go to the rooftop terrace of Las Arenas to enjoy the exceptional view.

You can find the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC) just across from Plaça Espanya. It’s one of the largest museums in Spain and one of the richest in Barcelona.

It houses the world’s largest collection of Romanesque art.

It takes about 15 minutes on foot to get there, passing by the Magic Fountain (which I’ll talk about for the evening).

On Saturdays after 3 PM and the first Sunday of each month, the entry to the MNAC is free.

With the Barcelona City Pass , you can enjoy a discount for your MNAC entrance ticket by clicking directly here.

If you plan on visiting other museums during these 5 days in Barcelona, you might prefer to buy the Barcelona Museum Pass which gives you access to the 6 main museums of the city.

To purchase directly click the button below:

After this cultural visit, it should be time for lunch.

Thus, I suggest going for a picnic in Montjuic Park , the main green space in Barcelona where locals usually come to exercise and get some fresh air on weekends or after work.

This park is situated up high, perched on Montjuic hill and can be reached by funicular ( Return ticket for the cable car here. ).

Divided into several gardens, the park also includes some historical monuments and museums:

• The Police Museum
• The Modern Art Museum
• The Olympic Museum
• The Joan Miró Foundation.

The Barcelona Olympics took place in 1992 and the city has preserved many of the installations built for the event.

I now suggest going to see the Olympic installations located within Montjuic’s Olympic Park, near the gardens.

Here are some sites you can see:

• The Olympic Stadium
• The Palau Sant Jordi
• The Calatrava Tower
• Barcelona’s Sports Palace
• The Pavilion of Industrial Spain.

Stay in Montjuic and end your afternoon with a visit to the castle , which is open every day from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Constructed in 1640, Montjuic Castle is a must-visit when you have the chance to spend a week in Barcelona. It has in the past served to protect the city from Catalan rebels , was then transformed into a prison , and finally into a military museum in the 1960s.

The visit is very interesting and you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful panorama of Barcelona’s coastline from the heights.

This third day in Barcelona is already drawing to a close.

It’s time to dine at one of the delicious tapas bars on Plaça Espanya.

After dinner, find a spot in front of the Magic Fountain and enjoy the sound and light show that happens every evening, from Wednesday to Sunday (starting at 8 PM from November to March, and from 9 PM from April to October).

This show lasts about an hour and always draws a large crowd.

Day 4 Itinerary: Stroll Through Barcelona

Visits for day 4:

A. Port Vell B. Passeig Maritim C. Olympic Port D. Ciutadella Park E. Santa Maria del Mar Basilica

Continue your week-long journey in Barcelona with a visit to Port Vell (which means “Old Port”).

As its name suggests, it’s the city’s oldest port and offers a pleasant stroll, especially along the charming Moll de la Fusta (Wood Quay).

You will also find the Rambla de Mar, a floating walkway leading to the port’s shopping center for any shopping desires. You can also enjoy the walk to climb to the top of the Columbus Monument or visit the Barcelona Aquarium .

From the port, you can also board a golondrina for a mini cruise around the harbor. Book here.

Catamaran cruises (during the day or at sunset) are also available if you’d like to enjoy a moment of relaxation while admiring beautiful views over the city . Click here to book!

Continue your morning by walking along Passeig Maritim from Port Vell and stroll along the coast.

This 5 km-long coastal promenade runs alongside Barcelona’s beaches and, in summer, invites you to stop at the prettiest ones for a picnic and/or swim.

If you’re a sports enthusiast keen to learn more about the 1992 Olympic Games , you should then stop at Parc del Mar , home to other Olympic facilities including the Barcelona Olympic Port and the Mar Bella Pavilion.

Then, visit Ciutadella Park.

Dating back to 1888, this vast park offers a great opportunity for a breath of fresh air, a boat ride on the lake, and features several places of interest:

• The Arc de Triomf
• Barcelona Zoo
• The Museum of Modern Art
• The Seat of the Catalan Parliament.

If you’re planning to visit the zoo with your family, you can save money by booking one of these Passes online (click on the links to book):

• Barcelona Family Pass with: zoo entry + one-hour harbor cruise + skip-the-line entry to the wax museum
• Zoo and Aquarium Pack with: zoo entry + aquarium ticket + a ride on Barcelona’s port cable car.

To finish off this fourth day, I recommend a visit to the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar.

This Gothic basilica is located in the historic El Born district . It’s very impressive both inside and out, and even more beautiful at night when it’s all lit up.

From the Terraces (paid access), you can enjoy a magnificent view over the entire area.

For the evening , you can choose between one of these 3 activities I’ve selected for you:

• A guided tour of the best Tapas in Barcelona who will take you to several small local bars to sample 8 courses of tapas, accompanied by a drink at each stop
• A pub crawl with complimentary drinks + VIP club entry to a nightclub
• A ghost-themed tour where you’ll walk through the Gothic Quarter with a guide who’ll tell you lots of spooky, supernatural stories.

Spend a week in Barcelona and you’ll have time to get out of the city to explore its surroundings.

In 4 days, you should have seen the main attractions of the Catalan capital. That’s why for this fifth day, I recommend a trip to PortAventura, a must-visit destination near Barcelona.

PortAventura is the largest amusement park in Spain and indeed in the whole Southern Europe.

Located just over an hour’s drive from Barcelona (by train or car).

To visit Port Aventura without a car, the easiest is to book a full-day excursion including roundtrip transportation.

Book here your 12-hour day-trip which includes round-trip transportation from Barcelona by bus and a skip-the-line ticket:

For this sixth day, I suggest another “day-trip” around the Catalan capital, this time to the Montserrat mountains.

Again, this is a must-visit destination near Barcelona, a place where you can recharge and enjoy the peace after the hustle and bustle of the city and the thrill rides.

The Montserrat Mountains are both a Benedictine monastery (with a beautiful abbey worth visiting), a nature reserve , and a sanctuary for Catalan culture and art . You can enjoy lovely visits as well as beautiful walks.

What to do in Montserrat:

• Visit Montserrat Abbey
• Explore artworks by Caravaggio, Fortuny, Rusiñol, Picasso, Dali, and many others.
• Admire the Black Madonna
• Hike in nature
• Taste the local liqueurs.

This organized tour includes round-trip train transportation from Barcelona , a visit to the monastery , and the Montserrat museum with audio guide.

Your one-week itinerary in Barcelona is coming to an end, and I have saved a fantastic excursion for your last day: a dreamy day on the Costa Brava!

The Costa Brava, located in the northern part of Catalonia, is one of the most famous and renowned Spanish coasts.

For this seventh day, I suggest you book a day-trip that includes a boat tour as well as the discovery of the idyllic villages of Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar.

This day-trip includes coach transport and a guide. It can be reserved by clicking on the button below:

And for the more adventurous , you have another option to discover the Costa Brava: a kayak tour that also includes snorkeling (lasting 8 hours).

Suitable for up to 12 people, this package includes transfers to Costa Brava, a kayak tour, and a snorkeling session.

Equipment is provided and lunch is included.

Book directly below:

After all this information on how to visit Barcelona in one week, it’s time to tackle the question of your accommodation!

When you’re not familiar with the city, it’s not always easy to know where to stay and to sift through the multitude of available accommodations.

Therefore, I have selected a short list of the best hotels to stay in Barcelona, based on your budget:

• Hostel One Ramblas: This hostel is located in the center of Barcelona. Dormitory beds start from €33 with dinner included. Strong points: the atmosphere, the price. A great choice if you’re visiting Barcelona on a budget.
• Hotel Grums Barcelona: Located next to Montjuic hill and 600m from Las Ramblas. Elegant and bright rooms starting from €134. Strong points: the spa with jacuzzi and sauna, room design, great location. It’s one of my favorite hotels in Barcelona for its excellent value for money!
• Ohla Barcelona: Perfectly located luxury hotel in Barcelona, between the Cathedral and the Plaza Catalunya, and 200 meters from the metro. This 5-star hotel offers contemporary and comfortable double rooms starting at €325 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the beauty of the establishment both outside and inside, the rooftop pool with breathtaking views, the 3 gourmet restaurants. This is definitely the perfect choice for a romantic stay in the heart of Barcelona.
• W Barcelona: The iconic Barcelona hotel is located in the Barceloneta district. Luxurious and well-equipped double rooms starting at €363. Strong points: the views, the two swimming pools, the facilities, the restaurants. Undoubtedly the most famous hotel in Barcelona!
• Hotel Arts Barcelona: 5-star hotel located in the Olympic Port district, 250 meters from the beach and 300 meters from Ciutadella Park. Design and ultra-spacious double rooms starting from €670 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the 2-Michelin-star restaurant, the outdoor pool with panoramic views, the design, and the contemporary art collection. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Barcelona!

If these hotels are fully booked for the dates of your trip to Barcelona, or if they do not meet your needs, I have prepared a broader selection in my other article.

My suggestions are categorized by neighborhoods and price to make it easy for you to find what you’re looking for.

All you have to do is click here to read it: The best hotels to stay in Barcelona.

Are you heading to Barcelona for a week with your family? Wondering how to adapt the trip for children?

Don’t worry, the Catalan capital is a destination suitable for all ages and is particularly well-suited for a family holiday.

To help you plan your trip better for your family, below are some additional visits to include in your itinerary if you plan to visit Barcelona for 7 days with your children:

• Poble Espanyol: this visit, for example, could replace a museum visit that might not be suitable for younger children (such as the MNAC). Poble Espanyol is a life-sized artificial village, representing the different types of Spanish houses from various regions. Located near the Magic Fountain, the site is explored on foot and is a fun experience that children always enjoy.
• Tibidabo Amusement Park: this park is situated on the outskirts of the city, atop Barcelona’s highest peak. It is suitable for children aged 6 and over and provides a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family.

Not to mention of course all the visits already included in the one-week itinerary in Barcelona that are perfectly suitable for a family holiday:

• Ciutadella Park (near El Born district): a beautiful green space ideal for a family picnic, including a fantastic playground for children.
• PortAventura: this huge amusement park near Barcelona is of course an essential destination for a day of family fun.
• Strolling down La Rambla
• Flamenco shows
• Barcelona’s most beautiful viewpoints (Bunkers del Carmel, Mirador de Violai, roof of Basilica Santa Maria del Mar, terraces of Montjuic Castle, rooftop terrace of Las Arenas)
• Montjuic Park
• The Magic Fountain show.

This 7-day Barcelona sightseeing plan is quite comprehensive, but if you still have more time or want to explore other places, you will find more ideas in my detailed travel guide.

My dedicated article on Barcelona can be found right here: The ultimate guide to visiting Barcelona.

To help you visualize your itineraries during these 7 days in Barcelona, I have created a map listing the places to visit day by day . You can display the legend of the map by clicking the button at the top left with a small arrow. This will let you view routes for each day.

As prices of flights to Barcelona can vary greatly, it’s a smart idea to compare them as early as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner. This is the way to ensure the best fares.

Do you need help organizing your one-week itinerary in Barcelona? Feel free to ask me your questions in the comments.

Discover all my articles about Spain : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Spain are listed there.

• Barcelona: Top 25 best places to visit
• Madrid: The 21 best things to do
• 2 days in Barcelona – The best itinerary to visit the city in a weekend
• 3 days in Barcelona – The best 72-hour itinerary in the Catalan capital
• 4 days in Barcelona – The best day-by-day program
• 5 days in Barcelona – The ultimate itinerary for visiting the Catalan capital
• One week in Barcelona – My detailed 7-day itinerary!
• 2 days in Madrid – The best way to visit the city in a weekend
• 3 days in Madrid – The best itinerary for visiting the city in 72 hours
• 4 days in Madrid – The ultimate itinerary for visiting Spain’s capital!
• 5 days in Madrid – The best detailed day-by-day itinerary!
• Where to stay in Barcelona? My guide of the best places to stay for all budgets
• Where to stay in Madrid? All the best areas and hotels to stay in Madrid as a tourist

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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7 Days in Barcelona: Ultimate 1 Week Barcelona Itinerary

1 Week Barcelona Itinerary

Do you want to  go to  Barcelona for a week? Wondering  how to organize your days  so you don’t miss anything?

You are in the right place!

With  my itinerary for visiting Barcelona in a week , you will know exactly  what to do and where to go .

To start, I give you  all my good tips to avoid queuing:  you will save a lot of time!

I then continue with  the detailed program of visits to be made each day,  accompanied by maps to help you find your way around.

And to make your stay truly perfect, I’ll also give you  my selection of the best hotels  to stay in during your 7 days in Barcelona, ​​as well as some  very cool activity ideas for a family trip.

So  what to do in Barcelona for 7 days? 

Table of Contents

Tips to save time and skip the line in Barcelona

If we were to make a  ranking of the most touristic European cities , there is no doubt that Barcelona would feature prominently alongside  Florence ,  London  or  Rome,  for example.

And if there is one  unmissable monument  that everyone wants to see when  visiting Barcelona in 1 week , it is  the Sagrada Familia!  Every day, hundreds of  people sometimes wait for hours  before they can get inside.

Well that’s because they didn’t  follow my advice! 😛

There are several tips  to avoid waiting outside the most popular sites  and  save a lot of time  during your week-long trip to Barcelona.

I will explain everything to you right away!

1. Barcelona City Pass

To discover a lot of things during your one-week tour in Barcelona,  ​​the first solution  I recommend is to buy  the Barcelona City Pass .

Taking the Barcelona City Pass not only saves you  time in line , but also  saves you a lot of money.

You must  book it in advance on the internet  so that all  skip-the-line tickets are sent to you by email . You will then just have to  show them on your smartphone  at the entrance to tourist attractions.

Last  very useful advantage of the Barcelona City Pass is that  it has no time limit . Once activated, you can  use it for your entire  one-week stay in Barcelona.

If you are looking for  the most complete and practical pass  to visit Barcelona in 1 week, the Barcelona City Pass is what you need!

Here is a  selection of the visits included:

• Sagrada Familia Skip-the-Line Ticket:  When purchasing the City Pass, you will be asked to choose a date and time to visit. It is mandatory to respect the time slots.
• A skip-the-line ticket to Park Güell . Date and time of your visit to the park will be requested.
• A ticket for the hop-on hop-off bus
• An audio guide  to discover more than 100 places of interest in the city
• Discounts for attractions and some museums:   those for Casa Batlló and Casa Milà are really useful!  A 10% discount code  will be sent to you after taking the Barcelona City Pass. You will then have to book your visits on the same site to benefit from the promo code.

To  buy your Barcelona City Pass,   just click here.

2. Skip-the-line tickets for tourist attractions in Barcelona

The second solution  to be able to  quickly access the sites  is to  take a skip-the-line ticket for each of them.

You will find entrance tickets for  most museums and monuments  but also for  many activities  to do in Barcelona in 1 week.

I list below those that correspond to the circuit of visits that I present to you in detail a little later.

To  make a reservation  or more details, just  click on the links in orange.  They are also pointed out throughout this article (by a link or a green button):

Visit Barcelona in 7-8 days: The essentials

• Casa Batlló
• Milan House
• Gaudi’s 3 Houses Tour Pass
• Spectacle de flamenco
• The Modernist Precinct of Sant Pau
• Sagrada Familia coupe file
• Sagrada Familia guided tour FR
• Barcelona Museum Pass
• Montjuic cable car
• The Palace of Catalan Music
• Hop-on Hop-off Tourist Bus

3. Barcelona Card

Last solution  that I mention briefly because I do not find it  very useful  to visit Barcelona in 7 days:   the Barcelona Card.

This card allows you to  take public transport for free  and entitles you to  discounts in the  city’s museums such as the Picasso Museum.

With the route that I propose,  the cost of the Barcelona card will not be amortized , since it is not necessary to take the bus or the metro often. I purposely grouped some visits together so that you don’t have to walk too much!

And if you want to take the bus/metro, it’s  cheaper to take the 10-trip pass  sold at the terminals, at the entrance to the metro stations.

The Barcelona Card also does not include fast access to the most touristic places like the Sagrada Familia.

For a  first 7-day stay  in Barcelona, ​​I therefore recommend that you  take  the Barcelona City Pass  or skip-the-line tickets.

On the other hand, if you already know a little about the city and its essentials, and your  schedule is based on museums , do not hesitate to  click here  to see if the Barcelona Card is right for you.

Last tip for a perfect 7 day stay in Barcelona

If you  already know your travel dates (or as soon as you have them!) , I highly recommend that you  book your accommodation.

And yes, Barcelona is quite simply  one of the most touristic cities in the world  and  the hotels offering the best value for money fill up very quickly.

Being used to travelling, I can guarantee you that  it’s always by going as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best accommodation.

It would be a shame to  partly ruin your stay in Barcelona  by finding yourself in  a terrible hotel that will have cost you a fortune, right?

So take 5 minutes now to take a look at  the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Barcelona.

And if you like a hotel,  book it!

Cancellation is often free, it’s quick, easy, and it will protect you from the inconvenience of finding nothing , except mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To see the best deals on Barcelona right now,   just click here.

Once you have booked your hotel or apartment, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

Visit Barcelona in 1 week: the best itinerary

Once the summary of the best tips for not queuing is finished, it’s time to  discover my 1-week itinerary in Barcelona.

For the 7 days, I present to you  my schedule of visits  and  a map of the places to see.

However, I would like to point out that the program is based on not having to wait too long in front of the entrance thanks to  the purchase of the Barcelona City Pass  or  skip-the-line tickets.  We agree that if you wait 3 hours in line in front of the Sagrada, it will be difficult to do everything.

If you still have questions after reading everything, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section at the very end of the article.

So  what to do in Barcelona in a week?

Day 1: The historic center of Barcelona

The visits of day 1:

A. The Cathédrale Sainte-Croix and the gothic quarter B. The Rambla C. Marché de la Boqueria D. The Casa Batlló E. The Casa Milà F. Flamenco show

A. Sainte-Croix Cathedral and the Gothic Quarter

The  Gothic Quarter of Barcelona  is the ideal first stop to start a  week-long trip to Barcelona.

Locally referred to as  the “Barrio Gòtico” , this district is  one of the most famous  and busiest in the city. It is a  pretty medieval quarter  and also the historic center of the capital.

In particular, you can see the very imposing  Gothic Sainte-Croix cathedral .  I recommend the visit which is very interesting.

If you have the chance, don’t miss  the artistic shows  (especially sardana dancing) which take place every  Saturday at 6 p.m.  and  Sunday at 11 a.m.  in the square of the cathedral.

In the Gothic quarter, you can also  stroll and discover the maze of alleys  while admiring:

• Sant Jaume Square
• The King’s Square (Place du Roi)
• Barcelona History Museum
• The Pine Square.

B. Walk on the Ramblas Avenue

You may have already heard of  the Rambla , the  large pedestrian avenue  in Barcelona that  connects the port to Plaza de Catalunya  (Plaça de Catalunya). You will reach it in just  10 minutes on foot from Barrio Gotico.

La Rambla is a must during a 1 week stay in Barcelona. It is  very lively,  hosts many  street artists  and is lined with  restaurants, shops and cafes .

For this route, I suggest that you  first go down to the port.

To see along the way:

• The Grand Théâtre du Liceu  (oldest theater in the city)
• The Joan Miro mosaic
• The Royal Square.

Then go back to Plaça Catalunya. Along the way, you can see  the Canaletes fountain  and  the Palau de la Virreina  and its temporary exhibitions.

C. The Boqueria Market

Along the Rambla you will also find  the famous Boqueria market , whose entrance is characterized by  a large Art Deco portal.

It is a picturesque market,  the oldest in the city.

I suggest you take a tour and discover  and taste Catalan specialties , tapas and fresh fruit. The market is often crowded, except in the morning between 8 am and 10 am when it is quieter.

Tips for you Barcelona itinerary:

Do you like  slightly unusual guided tours ?

Then you can choose the  special visit of the market in the company of a chef  who then prepares  tapas and a paella to share in front of you.

D. Casa Batlló

Continue the route, now heading towards  Passeig de Gracia . This street is a  5-minute walk  from Plaza Catalunya.

If I take you here, it is to guide you to one of Barcelona’s  major attractions :  Casa Battlo,  Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece  .

This  symbol of Barcelona  can be recognized by its  very particular curvaceous architecture , characteristic of Gaudi’s work. This villa is listed as a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  and can also be visited from the inside.

Avoid the endless line at the entrance to Caso Battlo by  purchasing your ticket in advance.

Don’t forget that with  the Barcelona City Pass , you have obtained a 10% promo code valid in particular for the  visit to Casa Batll ​​ó  via the Tiqets site.

E. The Milan House

I then suggest that you continue your visit on Passeig de Gracia  going up a little to the north.

You will arrive in 6-7 minutes in front of another villa imagined by Gaudi:  Casa Milà . Just as essential in Barcelona as the previous one, Casa Milà has a  remarkable white facade with wavy lines.

I also advise you to  visit the interior  to soak up the genius of the architect on the 5 different floors of the building.

And at the very top on  the roof terrace of the villa , you can enjoy a  breathtaking view  of the whole neighborhood.

Also here  ,   remember to  buy your entrance ticket to Casa Milà on Tiqets  with the discount obtained when you buy your  Barcelona City Pass.

For an  unusual visit , choose  a night entry ticket.  The night tour begins at 9 p.m. and includes  audiovisual projections  with, as a bonus, a  complimentary glass of Champagne .

This night entrance ticket can be purchased by clicking here .

F. Attend a flamenco show

What better way to end this first day in Barcelona than  to attend a flamenco show?

Performances take place all year round in  the city’s tablaos , intimate places to  eat, have a drink  while  attending musical performances.

I particularly recommend  “Los Tarantos”,  one of the  oldest and most famous tablaos  in the city. It is located in Plaça Reia, very close to the Rambla.

You can book your evening show  by simply clicking here!

What to do and see in Barcelona on the second day?

The visits of day 2:

A. Park Güell B. Bunkers del Carmel C. Modernista Precinct of Sant Pau D. Sagrada Familia E. Quartier du Born

A. Parc Güell

After a good night’s sleep, I suggest you  start this second day  with a  walk in Parc Güell.

Also straight out of  the imagination of Antoni Gaudi , it was built in the early 1900s. It is another  major and unmissable work  of the architect in Barcelona.

Parc Güell is located in the north of the city and is  divided into two sections . One part is free and the other paid.

In the paid area  (called “Monumental”), you can admire  famous works by Gaudi  including a  wavy bench covered in mosaic , a salamander and columns in the shape of tree trunks.

I advise you to be there  early in the morning  to have time to visit everything at a leisurely pace.

To reach Park Güell, take  metro line 3  and get off at  Vallcarca.

Access to the park is included in  the Barcelona City Pass,  otherwise you can also  get your skip-the-line ticket directly by clicking here.

I really advise you to  book in advance  because there are a  limited number of entries each day.

B. Carmel Bunkers

After this morning in the park, I suggest you now head to  the Bunkers del Carmel , about  a 20-minute walk .

It is  one of the most beautiful viewpoints  in Barcelona with a  360° view of the whole city.

This  former anti-aircraft base  located 262 meters above sea level is on the Turo de la Rovira.  Access is free and free.

For example, I advise you to plan a picnic and have lunch up there to have a good time and recharge your batteries!

C. The Modernist Precinct of Sant Pau

After a 30-minute walk, reach  the Recinta Modernista de Sant Pau.

This  former public hospital  now hosts  exhibitions  and it is possible to  visit the various buildings  that retrace the history of the place.

But it is already worth a look just for  its architecture and its facade!

Entrance tickets are to be taken here,   if the visit tempts you.

D. The Holy Family

It is  the ultimate emblem of the  Catalan capital, THE city’s flagship monument:  the Sagrada Familia  is a must during your 7-day tour of Barcelona.

The work of Gaudi, this  spectacular basilica  is  the most visited monument in Spain . It is listed as a  UNESCO heritage site  and embodies a  sumptuous blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture.

Don’t forget that your  Barcelona City Pass  entitles you to  priority entry  to the Sagrada Familia. That alone is a good reason to buy it!

Otherwise,  without the Pass, skip-the-line ticket required  so as not to stay stuck for hours in front of the entrance.  Buy by clicking here. 

E. El Born neighborhood

The end of the day is coming and I suggest you end it quietly in  the El Born district .

This small  medieval quarter  forms, together with the Gothic quarter,  the old town of Barcelona . It is also a  very trendy place  where you can spend a pleasant evening in one of the  trendy tapas bars or restaurants.

Other things to do in the El Born district:

• Admire the Gothic churches
• Visit the Picasso Museum
• Visit the Palace of Music  (one of the most beautiful concert halls in the world!).

Day 3: Places of interest to visit in Barcelona

The visits of day 3:

A. Plaça Espanya B. MNAC C. Montjuic Park D. Olympic facilities E. Montjuic Castle F. Plaça Espanya and the Magic Fountain

A. Spain Square

For this third day  of your week-long itinerary in Barcelona, ​​meet at  Plaça Espanya.

Built in 1929, we owe it to another great Spanish  architect :  Puig y Cadafalch . It’s a bit like  the Place de l’Etoile barcelonaise  and it’s the  starting point for the other visits  of the day.

This square is also surrounded by several buildings and congress halls, including  “Las Arenas”,  former bullrings transformed into a  shopping centre. 

I advise you to go to  the roof terrace of  Las Arenas to  enjoy the exceptional view.

You will find  the National Art Museum of Catalonia  (MNAC) just opposite Plaça Espanya. It is  one of the largest museums in Spain  and one of the richest in Barcelona.

It houses  the largest collection of Romanesque art  in the world.

It takes about  15 minutes on foot  to get there via the Magic Fountain (which I’ll save for you for the evening).

On Saturday after 3 p.m. and the first Sunday of each month, admission to the MNAC is free.

Thanks to the  Barcelona City Pass , you will be able to benefit from a  reduction for your entrance to the MNAC, by clicking directly here.

If you intend to  visit other museums during these 5 days in Barcelona,  ​​you can instead  buy the Barcelona Museums Pass  which gives access to the 6 main museums of the city.

C. Montjuïc Park

After this cultural visit, it should be lunch time.

So I suggest you go for a picnic in  the Parc de Montjuic , the main green space in Barcelona where the locals usually come to play sports and get some fresh air on weekends or after work.

This park is located high up,  perched on the hill of Montjuic  and can be  reached by funicular  (  Return ticket for the cable car here.  ) .

Divided into several gardens, the park also houses some  historical monuments and museums:

• The Urban Guard Museum
• The modern art museum
• The Olympic Museum
• The Joan Miro Foundation.

D. The Olympic facilities

The Barcelona Olympic Games  were in 1992 and  the city has kept many of the facilities  made for the occasion.

So I now suggest you go and see the Olympic facilities which are located in  the Montjuic Olympic Park,  very close to the gardens.

In particular, you can see:

• The Olympic Stadium
• Palau Sant Jordi
• Calatrava’s Tower
• The Sports Palace of Barcelona
• The Industrial Spain Pavilion.

E. Visit to Montjuic Castle

Stay in Montjuic and end your afternoon with  a visit to the castle  which is open every day from 10am to 6pm.

Built in 1640, the Château de Montjuic is a must when you have the chance to go to Barcelona for a week. It once served to  protect the city from Catalan rebels , then was  transformed into a prison  and finally into a  military museum  in the 1960s.

The visit is very interesting and you can enjoy a  very beautiful panorama of the Barcelona coast  from the heights.

F. Tapas in Plaça Espanya and Magic Fountain

This third day in Barcelona is already coming to an end.

It’s time to get something to eat in one of the  delicious tapas bars in Plaça Espanya.

After dinner, take a seat in front of  the Magic Fountain  and enjoy the  sound and light show  which takes place every evening, Wednesday to Sunday (from 8 p.m. from November to March, and from 9 p.m. from April to October ).

This show lasts  about an hour and always attracts a lot of people.

Day 4: Walk in Barcelona

The visits of day 4:

A. The Old Port B. The Passeig Maritim C. The Olympic Port D. The Ciutadella Park E. The Basilica Santa Maria del Mar

A. The Old Port

Today, continue your 1 week trip to Barcelona via  Port Vell  (meaning “Old Port”).

As its name suggests, it is  the oldest port in the city  and it is also a  pleasant place to stroll . The  Moll de la Fusta  (“Wooden Quay”) is particularly very pretty.

You will also find  the Rambla de Mar,  a floating walkway that takes you to the  shopping center of the port  where you can do some shopping if you wish. You can also enjoy the ride to  climb to the top of the statue of Christopher Columbus  or  visit the Barcelona Aquarium .

From the port,  you can also  embark on a golondrina  for a mini cruise.  To book here.

B. The Maritime Promenade

Continue the morning by taking  the Passeig Maritim  from Port Vell and take a  stroll along the coast.

This coastal walk is  5 km long.  It  runs along the beaches  of Barcelona and, in summer, allows you to stop at the most beautiful for a picnic and/or a swim.

C. The Olympic Port

If you like sports and want to learn more about  the 1992 Olympic Games , I advise you to stop next at  Parc de Mar  where there are other Olympic facilities including  the Port Olympic  de Barcelona and  the Pavillon de la Mar. bella.

D. Promenade au parc de la Ciutadella

Continue with a visit to  Ciutadella Park.

Dating from 1888, this  huge park  allows you to walk in the fresh air, take a  boat trip  on the lake and also has  several places of interest:

• The Arc de Triomphe
• Barcelona Zoo
• The Museum of Modern Art
• The Seat of the Parliament of Catalonia.

If you plan  to visit the zoo with your family,  you can  save money  by booking one of these passes online (click on the links to book):

• The Barcelona Family Pass  with: entrance to the zoo + one-hour cruise on the port + skip-the-line entrance to the wax museum
• The Zoo and Aquarium Pack  with: entrance to the zoo + ticket for the aquarium + a trip in the cable car from the port of Barcelona.

E. The Basilique Santa Maria del Mar

And to  end this fourth day  of your 1-week stay in Barcelona, ​​I suggest you visit  the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar.

This  Gothic basilica  is in  the historic El Born district . It is very  impressive inside  and out and even more beautiful at night when it is all lit up.

From the Terraces  (paying access), you can enjoy a  magnificent view  of the whole district.

Day 5: Day in Port Aventura

Spending 1 week in Barcelona  will allow you to have time to  get out of the city  and explore the surroundings.

In 4 days  you should have  seen the main points of interest  in the Catalan capital. That’s why I suggest you, for  this fifth day , to  go to PortAventura,  a destination not to be missed in the Barcelona region.

PortAventura is  the largest amusement park in Spain  and even in all of southern Europe.

It is  just over an hour’s drive  from Barcelona (train or car).

To visit Port Aventura, if you don’t have a car, it’s best to  book a day trip  including round-trip transport.

Book your 12-hour day-trip here  which includes  round trip from Barcelona  by bus and  skip-the-line ticket.

Day 6: Visit to Montserrat

For this sixth day , I again offer you a “day-trip” around the Catalan capital, this time in  the mountain of Montserrat.

Here again it is an  essential destination  in the surroundings of Barcelona. A place where you can recharge your batteries and enjoy the calm after the hustle and bustle of the city and the rides.

The Monserrat Mountain is both  a Benedictine monastery  (with a very beautiful abbey to visit),  a nature reserve  and a  sanctuary for Catalan culture and art . You can therefore make beautiful visits but also magnificent walks.

Things to do in Montserrat:

• Visit Montserrat Abbey
• Discover the works of Caravaggio, Fortuny, Rusiñol, Picasso,  Dali  and many others.
• Admire the Black Madonna
• Hike  in nature
• Taste the local liqueurs.

This organized tour includes  the round trip from Barcelona by train , the  visit to the monastery  and the   museum of Montserrat with audio guide.

Day 7: The Costa Brava

Your week-long trip to Barcelona is coming to an end and I have a choice excursion in store for you to end your stay:  a dream day on the Costa Brava!

The Costa Brava, in northern Catalonia, is one of  the most famous  and renowned Spanish coasts.

For this seventh day, I suggest you book  a day-trip  including  a boat trip  and the discovery of the paradisiacal  villages of  Lloret de Mar  and  Tossa de Mar. 

This day-trip  includes bus transport  and a guide. It is  to be reserved by clicking here.

And for the more athletic , you also have another option to discover the Costa Brava:  a kayak tour including snorkelling  (duration 8 hours).

For a maximum of 12 people, this package includes  transfer  to the Costa Brava, a  session of kayaking and snorkelling.

Equipment is provided and  lunch is included.

To book directly here.

Accommodation in Barcelona

After all these explanations to know  how to visit Barcelona in a week , we still have to address the question of your accommodation!

When you don’t know the city, it’s not always easy to know where to sleep and to sort through the  multitude of accommodation available.

I have therefore selected a small list of the  best hotels to stay in Barcelona,  ​​depending on your budget:

• Hostel One Ramblas:   Hostel located in the center of Barcelona. Dormitory bed from €33 with dinner included. Most: the atmosphere, the price.
• Hotel Grums Barcelona:   Located next to Montjuic hill and 600 m from Las Ramblas. Elegant and bright rooms from €134. The pluses: the spa with jacuzzi and sauna, the design of the rooms, the geographical location.  It is our favorite for price / performance ratio.
• Ohla Barcelona:    Ideal location for this luxury hotel in Barcelona, ​​between the Cathedral and Plaça Catalunya and 200 meters from the metro. This 5-star hotel offers contemporary and comfortable double rooms from €325 per night, breakfast included. The pluses: the beauty of the establishment, both exterior and interior, the swimming pool on the roof with a breathtaking view, the 3 gourmet restaurants.   The best choice for a romantic stay in the heart of Barcelona.
• The W Barcelona:   Mythical hotel in Barcelona located in the district of La Barceloneta. Luxurious and well-equipped double room from 363€. Most: the view, the 2 swimming pools, the facilities, the restaurants.  Undoubtedly the most famous hotel in Barcelona!
• Hotel Arts Barcelona:    5 star hotel located in the Olympic Port area, 250 m from the beach and 300 m from Ciutadella Park. Designer and ultra-spacious double room from €670 per night, breakfast included. The pluses: the 2-star restaurant in the Michelin Guide, the outdoor swimming pool with a panoramic view, the design and the collection of contemporary art.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Barcelona.

If these  hotels show full    for the dates of your stay in Barcelona, ​​or do not correspond to what you want, I have concocted  a wider selection in my other article.

My suggestions are  classified by neighborhood and by price   so that you can find your way around easily.

Visit Barcelona in 1 week with the family

Are you  going to Barcelona for 1 week with your family ? Are you wondering  how to adapt the stay for children?

Rest assured, the Catalan capital is a  destination that suits all ages  and is particularly well suited to family holidays.

To help you   organize your trip as well as possible  according to your family, I share with you below some  additional visits to include , according to your wishes, in the program if you plan to visit Barcelona in 7 days with your children:

• Poble Espanyol:  this visit can for example replace that of a museum which might not be suitable for the youngest (the MNAC for example). The Poble Espanyol is a  life-size artificial village,  representing the  different types of Spanish houses  according to the regions. It is very close to the Magic Fountain and the visit is done on foot. It’s a fun visit that always appeals to children.
• Mount Tibidabo Amusement Park:   This park is located on the outskirts of the city, perched on the highest peak in Barcelona. It is suitable for children from 6 years old and also allows you to spend a good afternoon with your family.

Without forgetting of course all  the visits already included in the itinerary  of a week in Barcelona and which are very suitable for holidays with children:

• Parc de la Ciutadella  (near the El Born district): a pretty green space ideal for a family picnic. The interest is that it also includes a superb playground for children.
• PortAventura:  this huge amusement park at the gates of Barcelona is of course the essential destination for a day of family fun.
• The promenade on the Rambla
• Flamenco shows
• The most beautiful viewpoints in Barcelona  (Bunkers del Carmel, Mirador de Violai, roof of the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, terraces of Montjuic Castle, roof terrace of Las Arenas)
• Montjuïc Park
• The Magic Fountain show.

Map of your 7 day itinerary in Barcelona

To help you visualize your  itineraries during these 7 days in Barcelona,  ​​I made you a map listing the  places to visit day by day . You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button with a small arrow. You will then be able to view the routes for each day.

Need help planning your week-long Barcelona itinerary? Do not hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments.

Are you going to Spain? Read also

Discover all our articles on Spain : all articles on Spain are listed here.

• What to do in Spain?  The TOP 30 places to see in Spain
• Barcelona: The Top 25 Must-See Places
• Visit Barcelona in 2 days  – The best route to visit the city in a weekend!
• Visit Barcelona in 3 days  – The best 72h itinerary in the Catalan capital!
• Visit Barcelona in 4 days  – The best day-to-day program!
• Visit Barcelona in 5 days  – The ultimate itinerary to visit the Catalan capital!
• Visit Madrid in 3 days  – The best route to visit the city in 72 hours!
• Visit Madrid in 4 days    – The ultimate itinerary to visit the capital of Spain
• Visit Madrid in 5 days   – The best detailed day-to-day tour!

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$312 Find cheap flights from Los Angeles to Barcelona

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KLM, Air France, British Airways, and Iberia fly some of the most sustainable flights to Barcelona from Los Angeles. They offer nonstop, one-stop, and two-stop flights on this route, and emit about 36%, 28%, 26%, and 20% less CO2 than most of their counterparts.

What are the layover options for Los Angeles to Barcelona flights?

Most airlines flying to Barcelona from LAX have one or two stops en route. The layover options for Los Angeles to Barcelona flights vary depending on your airline. If you're flying out with American Airlines or JetBlue Airways, expect stops in New York or Chicago. Air France has a stop at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle in Paris. Other common stops are Atlanta, Rome, Toronto, and London.

Are there any animal relief areas at Los Angeles International Airport?

Yes, about 11 pet relief areas are available at LAX, eight in the indoor areas and another three in the outdoor areas. The latter are Pre-security on the Lower Levels of Arrivals, in the outdoor atriums in Terminals 3 and 6. Post-security, you will find the animal relief areas near Gate 13 in Terminal 1, Gate 21 in Terminal 2, and Gate 52B in Terminal 5.

What are the accessible services offered at Barcelona Airport?

BCN provides special zones called Meeting Points for special needs passengers traveling through the airport. They offer special services to passengers with disabilities, including assistance when checking into the airport and wheelchair services. Additionally, you will be offered help in getting off the plane, handling your luggage, and transport to a Meeting Point within BCN.

Where can I get a bite to eat in the International Terminal of Los Angeles International Airport?

800 Degrees Pizza is an Italian restaurant that is in the Dining Terrace of the International Terminal of Los Angeles International Airport, while Umami Burger is located nearby and sells a variety of cheeseburgers and sandwiches. The Border Grill can also be found in the Dining Terrace and has a traditional American menu.

Are there any facilities for families in Los Angeles International Airport?

If you are a nursing mother, you can use one of the breastfeeding rooms that are placed in each terminal of Los Angeles International Airport. You can access them for free by using the Mamava app; inside, you will find a changing table, comfortable benches, a sink, USB ports, and outlets.

Are there any shops in Barcelona–El Prat Airport?

If you want to get a headstart on your souvenir shopping, go to some of the different stores in Barcelona–El Prat Airport. Barcelona Duty Free can be found in Terminals 1 and 2, and they offer clothing, accessories, liquor, and electronics. Calzedonia-Intimissimi is in Terminal 1 and is known for selling affordable clothing.

What are good hotels near Barcelona–El Prat Airport?

The ibis Budget Aeropuerto Barcelona Viladecans is an affordable option that is a 10m drive from Barcelona–El Prat Airport and a 20m drive from Casa Batlló. To stay somewhere stylish, pick the 4-star Sallés Hotel Ciutat del Prat, which is a 12m drive from the airport and only a 9m walk from the El Prat De Llobregat train station.

What is the cheapest flight from Los Angeles to Barcelona-El Prat Airport?

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight from Los Angeles to Barcelona-El Prat Airport was $312 for a one-way ticket and $572 for a round-trip.

Do I need a passport to fly between Los Angeles and Barcelona?

A passport is required to fly from Los Angeles to Barcelona.

Which airlines offer Wi-Fi service onboard planes from Los Angeles to Barcelona?

All the following airlines offer inflight Wi-Fi service on the Los Angeles to Barcelona flight route: Iberia, Vueling, Finnair, British Airways, Alaska Airlines, SWISS, United Airlines, Lufthansa, Delta, KLM, American Airlines, and Austrian Airlines.

Which aircraft models fly most regularly from Los Angeles to Barcelona?

The Airbus A330-200 is the aircraft model that flies most regularly on the Los Angeles to Barcelona flight route.

Which airline alliances offer flights from Los Angeles to Barcelona?

oneworld is the only airline alliance operating flights between Los Angeles and Barcelona.

On which days can I fly direct from Los Angeles to Barcelona?

You can catch a nonstop flight from Los Angeles to Barcelona on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Which is the best airline for flights from Los Angeles to Barcelona, Delta or United Airlines?

The two airlines most popular with KAYAK users for flights from Los Angeles to Barcelona are Delta and United Airlines. With an average price for the route of $957 and an overall rating of 8.0, Delta is the most popular choice. United Airlines is also a great choice for the route, with an average price of $976 and an overall rating of 7.4.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from Los Angeles to Barcelona?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Los Angeles to Barcelona.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Los Angeles to Barcelona?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Barcelona from Los Angeles is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Los Angeles to Barcelona?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Barcelona with an airline and back to Los Angeles with another airline. Booking your flights between Los Angeles and BCN can sometimes prove cheaper using this method.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Los Angeles to Barcelona?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Barcelona from Los Angeles up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from LAX to Barcelona-El Prat

• Looking for a cheap flight? 25% of our users found flights on this route for $335 or less one-way and $677 or less round-trip.
• Use the ATMs at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) if you need cash before flying out. Bank of America runs an ATM in the Arrivals Area of Terminal 7. ICE Currency Exchange has kiosks in the Arrivals and Departures in Terminals 2, 5, and 6. In Terminals 3 and 7, they are in the Departures area. In the Tom Bradley International Terminal, you will find the kiosks in the South and North Entrance of the Departures Hall.
• Barcelona El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport (BCN) is an international hub with two passenger terminals. The airport's shuttle buses offer free transit between Terminals 1 and 2 or from 2A to 2C. You can find the shuttle stops outside the terminals, meaning you must go through customs and immigration. Alternatively, you can walk between 2A to 2C without leaving the Boarding zones.
• Renfe operates trains that offer transit from BCN to the city center. It also runs to other cities in Catalonia. Visit the Renfe Station in Terminal 2 to get your ticket. You can also use the Aerobus that departs every five minutes, and the trip takes about 35 minutes. Get your Aerobus tickets at the ATMs in Terminals 1 and 2. Alternatively, you can buy them online.
• If you want your kids to unwind on arrival at BCN, take them to the Children's Play areas at the airport. They are near Gate Y in Terminal 2 and P3 and P1 in Terminal 1.
• Getting around BCN with a child is easy, thanks to the airport's luggage trollies which have child seats. You can request the trollies at the Information Desks in the Boarding Area S in Terminals 2 and 1.
• In you’re interested in nonstop flights from Los Angeles to Barcelona, Norwegian Airlines is a popular company to book with, as their prices are known for being affordable. For flights that have layovers, Air France and American Airlines are good choices, as they provide free checked suitcases and meals.
• If you would like to unwind before embarking on a long day of traveling, pay a visit to the Be Relax spa that is in Terminal 1 of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). In addition to standard manicures and pedicures, this spa also offers massages, facials, and waxing.
• To look your best during your flight, stop by Marvin’s Shoe Shine in either Terminal 1, 4, or 7 of Los Angeles International Airport. All cleanings are complimentary no matter what type of shoes you are wearing, and employees work for tips.
• Hoping to pass through immigration as quickly as possible after your flight from Los Angeles to Barcelona has landed? Consider purchasing a Fast Lane pass for Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN). These passes will allow you to wait in your own separate line for immigration and customs, cutting the time of the entire process in half.
• If you are going to Barcelona for work, consider hosting your meeting or workshop in the Business Center, which can be found in Terminal 1 of Barcelona–El Prat Airport. This center contains desks, projectors, a professional sound system, outlets, and high-speed Internet, making it a convenient place to work.

Prefer to fly non-stop from Los Angeles to Barcelona?

Find which airlines fly direct from Los Angeles to Barcelona-El Prat, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

Los Angeles to Barcelona-El Prat

Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, +4 more

Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, +5 more

Nonstop returns

Barcelona-El Prat to Los Angeles

Top 4 airlines serving from los angeles to barcelona.

Seriously, not displaying departure gate until very last minute is awful. Specially when you have to take an elevator and then transport to go to the sub-terminal. That’s awful in such a busy airport as Heathrow. And I cannot choose seat on this flight because it’s run by British Airways, even entering locator code.

The experience was great and much better than the flight going out. of course I was in first class but the service was excellent

Comfort of seats, ease of boarding. Food selection could be better

Food options were limited which is absolutely embarrassing for a Flight of this size The staff did not come around as much and I am not accustomed to such poor service from American Airlines Drinks I believe were limited to soda and water

Crew were attentive and friendly. Flight was smooth and early! I enjoyed the less crowded plane. Thank you!

You cancelled my flight by email then made it very difficult to get in contact with you. Then put me in a flight with a long layover in Mexico returning to the wrong airport in uk. Mind blowing my stressful. I missed see my grand dad because of you.

This was not the BA business class it used to be. Mediocre food, attendants seemed stretched thin. All the little luxuries that used to make BA business fun were missing. Flight delayed and the explanation given was they forgot to pick up crew - I hope I misheard! Transfer in LHR “sticky” - we thought we had way too much time at 3hours but it was needed. Next time will try different route.

The food at Admirals Club was really great Pijamas were a nice feature The flight attendant was very nice and great attitude The aa.com does not work well specially internet service Overall a very good flight .

Nothing, flight was supposed to leave at 758 am. My flight didn’t leave until 430 pm. Spent the whole day at the airport.

Flight a little late. Entertainment system didn’t work for first hour. Toilets dirty after 2 hours. Is there no one assigned to clean them?

Flight was delayed by well over an hour. Communication was terrible.

I like the team but I don't like the food you provided with money. I want free food and free water.

An average flight experience. For our transatlantic portion, they provided a main meal and two snacks. However, the food was not very tasty and the drinks far too small and infrequent for such a long flight. The regrettable part of the flight was that the toilets were extremely filthy. I feel this is unacceptable.

Both flights were delayed. I lost my connection on the way back. No voucher or anything was givenx I had business ticket and no support to make it on time. I got to the door running 5 min after they close. Food really bad. Breakfast in business was worst that I what I remember in economy. Even though I have accumulated many miles, I don’t think Inwill keep buying Iberia. I am a frequent business traveler.

The food is really eco only level. Breakfast was shameful. I am considering to stop flying with Iberia. Business prices are as expensive as other companies with much better service.

Why no entertainment? Also water should be free, it is basic human right.

Late boarding. Delayed departure leading to rushed connection at Madrid Barajas. Not necessarily Iberia's fault but delay loading cargo didn't help.

I can’t comment on food as it was necessary to buy it. No entertainment.

Took too long to tak off but besides that it was good

They made my flight a disaster they had me pay for bags that I already paid for through Iberia airlines and the hostesses were super mean and racist they just turned my vacation to a total nightmare and disappointment in fact they even had me rethink even no to go to morroco ever again even if my whole stay at the country was so nice and fun and perfect but anything at the airport and with the airline was a disaster do not recommend will never take a flight with them

The whole flight was coughing and farting all the way. It was impossible to breathe. If people are traveling sick they should either not be allowed to fly or made wear masks

I will never fly vueling. 1h30 delayed, connexion missed with the crew closing the boarding in front of us. 40 people missed the Barcelona-Orly connexion. hours waiting for rebooking and hotel.. inadmissible

3 hr flight from Barcelona to Gran Canaria. Ŵent according to plan No issues with staff oŕ flight. Many people includiñg us could not get luggage self checķ in termìnals to work. Had to wait in check in line.

The communication about the delay could have been better before and during the flight. Also, this online form could have less bugs. It is almost impossible to type in this window.

Boarding was very poor as the flight was initially delayed. We were told the flight would be at 21:40. We were with our 10 month baby who was sleeping. I received an email from Kayak which said the flight was now due to take off at 21:04. When we checked the screens at Gatwick we were told the gate was closed. The lack of communication was extremely poor and we had to run with our baby and there were many other passengers, including elderly people, also running to the gate. When we got to the gate, the staff had no reasons for the poor communication.

It was a short flight but the seat was very straight. I didn’t need any service, but wifi was not available. In resume, a normal service. Nice, the punctuality. Thanks

Last time bucking this company if I would know I wouldn’t do it, they made me lose my flight

I liked the regular updates and appreciated the automatic online checkin which didn’t work for our Vueling flight so I had to do this myself.

The baggage policy is pathetic. We paid for our carry-on bags online. Said if we don't remove the wheels of our carry-ons it's not considered a carry-on. We all measured our bags according to the website beforehand. We were not refunded for our bags and were obligated to buy it as checked in bags for over $70 online or $90 over the counter. First and last time I travel with this airline.

Because the scale includes two terminals, we almost lost our flights. That data was not referrenced to us. The check-in process was a pain too.

We paid to have overhead carry-on baggage. When we got to the gate we were told that our carry on bags would need to be checked and go below because the flight was full. Notably we were nowhere near the last people to board and about 30 other passengers also had to check their carry-on bags. Other than that the flight was fine.

Crew were very friendly and helpful. They explained to us in detail the delay in our takeoff due to the storm that rolled in from Belfast and did their best to make up the time. Always great to fly BA!

Not sure if the crew were experiencing something unknown to me,but the service of passing water was non-existent.In addition,please take consideration when providing yogurt as alternative for breakfast as some of us, could be lactose intolerant.. thanks

This was an American Airlines flight. The crew were very unhappy and quite grumpy. Abrupt to the point of being rude. The food was dreadful. Indeed the breakfast was in edible. I will avoid AA at all costs in the future.

We have business class seats from Los Angeles to London. The crew is friendly and provided great service. The flight was very comfortable and very smooth. Will use this airlines again in the future.

Asked for a wheelchair multiple times. Got denied the wheelchair in London layover.

No entertainment available on flight. Seating too cramped fir an average adult.

Flight delayed Got bags after 5 days Delivery of bags was done 500 meters as driver did not want to go into my street

It was below average experience overall. They did not have my food choice which was selected a month ago for 8+ hour flight. After landing I waited to collect my bag but my bag did not come and I wasn’t told it was delayed or lost. I had to find someone to help me to locate it and it was sent through next flight. Overall I would say at wasn’t very good experience

Great service and air hostesses, took care of all activities very well and smooth

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10 Cheapest Ways to Travel in Barcelona (Save Big!)

So, you’ve caught the Barcelona bug, huh? I don’t blame you. With its rich culture, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering paellas, who wouldn’t be lured by its charms? 

But if the thought of your wallet taking a hit is making you sweat, fear not! You’re about to uncover the holy grail of budget-friendly tips with the cheapest ways to travel in Barcelona.

After all, I live in Spain and have spent a chunk of my life wandering around Barcelona. And trust me, I’ve mastered the art of pinching pennies (or, well, euros) without missing out on the fun. 

Get ready for the insider scoop on the cheapest ways to soak in the magic of Barcelona!

Table of Contents

What is the cheapest way to get around Barcelona?

The metro is a popular and cost-effective way to see Barcelona. The underground system is extensive, reaching many of the city’s top attractions, making it easily one of the best ways to get around Barcelona .

Affordable ticket options include single trips or unlimited daily, weekly, and monthly passes, so choose the one that best fits your travel plans.

When it comes to the cheapest ways to get around Barcelona, the metro here is going to be high up on your list. 

Using the metro system in Barcelona is also pretty straightforward, and the color-coded lines make navigation a breeze. Plus, with several options for public transport tickets in Barcelona , like the T-casual pass that gets you 10 rides, you’ll be able to pick the most budget-friendly choice for you based on your travel style!

PRO TIP: The Hola Barcelona Travel Card gives you free public transport in Barcelona, including to and from the airport – which in itself would normally cost just over €10 for a return trip.

It’s great for getting around the city quickly, efficiently and cheaply!

Get your own Hola Barcelona Travel Card here.

Now, if you’re not in a rush and you fancy seeing a bit of the city as you travel, give the buses a try. They’re frequent, comfortable, and offer routes that the metro might not cover. 

Barcelona’s bus network is extensive and can take you almost anywhere in the city. And the bus system is so well connected that it offers a cheap way to explore the city.

The bus stops have digital displays showing when the next one’s due, so you’re never left guessing. And those metro tickets you just bought, like the T-casual pass or Hola Barcelona Travel Card ? Yep, they work here too.

One other thing to keep in mind: The Aerobús is a great way to get to and from the airport. While the Hola Barcelona card includes free metro trips to and from the airport, it doesn’t cover the bus, so if that’s what you prefer when arriving to or leaving the city, check out the Aerobús airport bus to find out more.

3. Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

Alright, before you roll your eyes and say “that’s too touristy for me!”, hear me out. The Hop-On Hop-Off buses can be a real asset for your trip if you’re short on time or just want a quick overview of the city. 

While it’s a tad pricier than the regular bus or metro, it’s super convenient, especially if you’re trying to hit a bunch of landmarks in one day. You can jump off at a site, explore a bit, then catch the next one. 

Remember, it’s all about the experience, and sometimes it’s cool to play tourist – especially if you are one!

Check the latest price and availability of the hop-on hop-off bus here for your planned travel dates!

If you’re itching to explore some of the newer parts of Barcelona, the tram is your buddy. While it doesn’t cover the older parts of the city, it gets you smoothly to areas that buses and metros might skim over. 

It’s especially handy for reaching places along the coast. Trams are modern, clean, and yep, your trusty Hola Barcelona and T-casual pass work here too. 

There’s something soothing about tram rides, watching the city slide by while you’re cozy inside. And the fact it’s one of the cheapest ways to travel in Barcelona is definitely a good thing too!

Here’s where the real magic happens. While public transport is great for longer distances, sometimes you’ve got to pound the pavement to discover those hidden corners of the city. 

Barcelona’s neighborhoods are full of character and little surprises, so slipping on comfy shoes and wandering around is often the best way to get a feel for the city’s heartbeat. 

Plus, it’s free, easily making it the cheapest way to travel in Barcelona – and who doesn’t love a good bargain?

Biking around Barcelona? Oh, it’s a thing, and it’s gaining steam. 

The city’s made a big push for eco-friendly transport, which means more bike lanes and bike-friendly zones. Renting a bike for a day won’t burn a hole in your pocket, and it gives you the freedom to roam as you please. 

From beach promenades to the winding lanes of El Raval, two wheels can be your ticket to an offbeat Barcelona adventure. Just remember to lock it up properly when stopping for those impromptu tapas breaks, as if not, your bike might not be waiting for you when you come back…

7. Electric scooter

For a quick and easy way to get around, consider renting an electric scooter. There are multiple scooter-sharing platforms in the city that offer affordable prices and allow you to zip around Barcelona effortlessly.

Gone are the days when scooters were just for kids. Electric scooters have taken over the streets of Barcelona, and honestly, they’re kinda fun. 

They’re quick, zippy, and perfect for short distances. Plus, you’ll find several apps offering scooter rentals by the minute, so just pick, unlock, and off you go. 

(And while it’s a blast to ride one, always wear a helmet. Safety first, right? Not to mention that it’s the law here.)

Cabify is a solid alternative to the regular taxi. Think of it as Spain’s answer to ridesharing. 

It’s app-based, so you can book and track your ride from your phone. Fares are transparent (in that you agree on the price when you select a ride) and, at least in my experience, often cheaper than taxis. 

Basically, if you’re someone who likes a set price before jumping in, Cabify’s a good choice.

Taxis in Barcelona are more affordable than you’d expect. They’re everywhere, and they’re recognizable by their black and yellow design. 

If you’ve had one too many cervezas or you’re lugging around bags from a shopping spree, taxis are a convenient way to get back to your accommodation. While it’s not the cheapest option on the list, sometimes convenience wins. 

And while fares are regulated, just remember to ensure the meter’s running to avoid any unwelcome surprises…

Ah, the ever-present Uber. Yep, it’s in Barcelona too. While it had its ups and downs in Spain, it’s now operational and a popular choice for many. 

One different aspect of it here is that it’s basically the same as a taxi. While you can use the Uber app, the price and availability will be in line with taxis, so don’t necessarily feel like one offers a better deal than the other.

Despite this though, it’s certainly one way to travel in Barcelona and so is worth having on this list so you’re aware it’s out there – even if it’s not the cheapest, even amongst the rideshare apps (Cabify takes the cake for that).

Mastering Barcelona’s Transport System

Understanding barcelona public transport fares.

If you’re new to Barcelona, don’t worry, as the fare system is pretty easy to get the hang of. 

Basically, fares depend on zones. Most of the main attractions are in Zone 1, so if you’re mainly sightseeing, you won’t need to venture beyond that. 

Single tickets can be bought for €2.40 per ride from vending machines at metro stations or aboard buses – but honestly? They’re not super wallet-friendly for multiple rides. 

If you’re making more than a couple of trips, multi-ride tickets like the T-casual are where the real savings are at. 

Or, as I mentioned earlier, you can get the Hola Barcelona Travel Card for free public transport for your selected validity period. It’s great if you’ll be seeing a lot of sights – or even if you’re going to or from the airport – as it more than pays for itself.

Barcelona Travel Cards Explained

If you plan to use public transportation frequently, then travel cards are your best bet to save money. Here are the most popular options:

• Hola Barcelona Travel Card : This is like the golden ticket for those on a whirlwind visit. It offers unlimited travel for specific timeframes: 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours. So if you’ve got a packed itinerary and you’re zooming around the city, this card can be a real money-saver. The clock starts ticking from the first use, so plan your adventures accordingly!
• T-Dia ticket : Meet the one-day champ of Barcelona travel cards. The T-Dia offers unlimited rides for a single day. Perfect if you’ve got one day of heavy travel or if you’re attempting a Barcelona-in-a-day kind of challenge. Just remember, there’s a midnight expiry on this one, regardless of when you start.
• T-Casual : Enter the favorite of many locals: the T-Casual. Designed with the occasional commuter in mind, the T-Casual offers ten rides. However, there’s a catch: it’s personalized for individual use. That means no sharing with your travel buddy, sorry! On the bright side, it’s per ride price is cheaper than buying a single ticket each time you travel somewhere. And if you transfer between the metro and a bus within 75 minutes, it counts as a single journey. All this means that if you’re planning to spread out your travels over several days, this one’s a pretty smart choice.

Getting around the Barcelona metro

Now, onto the backbone of Barcelona’s transport – the metro. It’s efficient, fast, and usually the quickest way to get from A to B. 

The lines are color-coded, making it easy to follow, even if you’re terrible with maps (like yours truly). Stations are well-marked, and there are digital boards showing when the next train is due. 

To start your journey, simply validate your travel card or single ticket at the station entrance. Ta-da! You’re good to go.

Remember to explore the metro map, which will help you decipher which stops you need to reach. Keep in mind that some stations may connect to multiple lines, so plan your route accordingly.

Pro tip: during peak hours, things can get packed, so keep your belongings close (pickpockets are particularly rife at these times) and be prepared for a bit of a squeeze.

Important Metro Information

A few essential tips to keep in mind when traveling on the Barcelona metro:

• Firstly, it doesn’t run 24/7 . While it’s open till midnight on weekdays, on Fridays it’s till 2am, and on Saturdays, it runs all night. Handy for those late-night fiestas! 
• Be aware of pickpockets – keep your belongings close and remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Barcelona’s a safe city, but like in any major metropolis, it’s always smart to be cautious in crowded places. 
• Accessible stations are available for persons with disabilities – look for the wheelchair symbol on the metro map for guidance.
• If you’re traveling to or from the airport, there’s a special fare . Don’t try to use a regular T-casual ride for it, as it won’t work (although the Hola Barcelona Travel Card does!)

Avoiding pickpockets when traveling in Barcelona

Barcelona, like any other busy city, can have its share of pickpockets in crowded areas – although it can be a bit worse here than in other places, I have to say, especially in touristy areas.

But don’t worry! Just follow these simple tips to keep your belongings safe while enjoying the city:

• Be Aware : Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like metro stations, markets, and tourist hotspots. Don’t ever put your bag somewhere you can’t see it (like over the back of a chair) or where it’s not somehow attached to you – even setting it down “securely” on the seat next to you could see it disappear in the crush of a crowded metro.
• Secure Your Valuables : Keep your cash, cards, and ID in a secure money belt or neck pouch hidden under your clothes (my preferred way is a cross body bag so it’s hard for someone to pull it off me). Also, avoid using back pockets or open bags for valuable items.
• Travel Light : Carry only what you need for the day, leaving your passport, extra cash, and other items locked in your accommodations safe. If you’re going into the metro and have a backpack, wear it on your front so you can see where it is at all times.

Is Uber in Barcelona expensive?

No. Good news, you won’t break the bank getting around Barcelona with Uber! In fact, Uber is the same price as taxis in the city. However, it’s generally more expensive than Cabify, which is the more popular rideshare app in Spain.

With Uber, you can explore Barcelona at an affordable price while enjoying the comforts of a private ride.

The base fare for an UberX ride in Barcelona is €0.95, and the fare per kilometer is €1.10. There’s also a charge of €0.10 per minute when the vehicle is traveling at a speed below 10 km/h, and a booking fee of €0.35 for each ride. 

Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on factors like demand, time of day, and special promotions.

A few things to remember while using Uber in Barcelona:

• Although usually around the same price as taxis, peak hours might see a surge in pricing, so plan your travels accordingly.
• Uber might be a better choice if you need some extra assistance as drivers often help with luggage and provide door-to-door services.
• If you’re looking for an even more affordable option, consider using public transportation like buses, trams, or the metro. It’s efficient, reliable, and budget-friendly.

Is it better to Uber or taxi in Barcelona?

In Barcelona, Uber and taxis effectively work the same. This means that one isn’t better than the other as both are similar prices using the same app. Instead, in my opinion, Cabify is better than both of them.

During your stay, you’ll find that taxis are easily accessible whether you’re at the airport or just wandering the streets. The city has a well functioning taxi service, and you can even use taxi booking apps to make your rides more convenient. 

But with Cabify being cheaper and just as convenient, I’d say that it takes the cake over Uber and taxis in Barcelona.

Should I get a Barcelona public transport card?

Yes, getting a Barcelona public transport card can be a cost-effective and convenient way to explore the city. With a variety of travel cards available, you can go unlimited rides on buses and the metro. It’s a great option for those who want hassle-free travel while saving money!

The Hola Barcelona Travel Card offers unlimited travel on public transport for 2, 3, 4, or 5 days. Here are the prices for each duration:

• 48 hours (two days): €16.40 (i.e. €8.20 per day)
• 72 hours (three days): €23.80 (i.e. €7.93 per day)
• 96 hours (four days): €31 (i.e. €7.75 per day)
• 120 hours (five days): €38.20 (i.e. €7.64 per day)

For tourists who are interested in visiting museums and attractions, the Barcelona Card can be a great choice. This card combines unlimited public transport with discounts and free entry to various attractions, depending on the version you choose.

Another popular choice is the T-casual card, which is perfect for short visits or infrequent use. This card offers 10 journeys with no expiration date, although it’s for your personal use only – that is, no sharing with others in your group. 

For some, this may be enough. On the other hand, if you expect to use public transport frequently during your stay, you might want to consider a more comprehensive option like the Hola Barcelona Travel Card.

A quick tip: When visiting Barcelona, be aware that the single ticket option is relatively expensive at €2.40 per ride , making it far from the cheapest way to travel in Barcelona. Instead, it’s best to choose a travel card based on your needs.

By opting for a Barcelona public transport card, you can save your valuable time, avoid the hassle of purchasing individual tickets, and explore the city’s attractions with ease. 

So go ahead and enjoy your Barcelona adventure with the card that suits your needs best!

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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