Barcelona is one of the most easily approachable cities in Spain. Some people would even go as far as to say that it is one of their favourite cities in the world, because Barcelona is beautiful. And let's be honest, that's easy to understand considering how much incredible things to see and do there are in Barcelona.
Having been to Barcelona quite a few times, we thought it was time to share some of the best things to do in Barcelona when you visit the city.
Here are 15+1 things not to miss if you're heading to Barcelona!
1. Sagrada Família
One of the most popular landmarks in Barcelona by far, this famously unfinished cathedral which is one of the most unique buildings in the world - especially as it is the only building that exists in both the past and the future. You can easily spend hours here, and it's a place definitely not to be missed.
It has huge crowds, so you should book your tickets online in advance to get in quickly and easily!
Site location: C/ de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.403983, 2.173854
Google Photos: Click here
2. Barcelona Cathedral
When people think of the more common name for Barcelona Cathedral, the Sagrada Família comes to mind. This cathedral is fully named the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and St Eulalia, and actually has a much older and longer history than the Sagrada Família, so it's well worth a visit in Barcelona.
Dating back to the 13th century, this cathedral has a rich history and is one of the most impressive sights in Barcelona.
Don't forget to get your Barcelona City Card! This will save you a lot of money if you want to visit a lot of places in Barcelona.
Site location: Pla de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.384240, 2.176035
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3. Montserrat
Although Montserrat is not the easiest to reach, it is definitely worth a visit. Montserrat is one of the natural attractions near Barcelona that should be on every Barcelona tourist's itinerary.
There's plenty to see and do here, plus you can hop on a historic train and visit the monastery to see the iconic Montserrat Mountains. Wonderful!
Site location: 08691, Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.595679, 1.832287
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4. Park Guell
The Park Guell is a 17-hectare public urban park with gardens and architectural features. Another amazing sight to visit if you love Antoni Gaudí 's incredible architecture. Barcelona's Park Guell boasts magnificent views and vibrant colours, and has become a symbol of the Barcelona journey. You can easily spend 3-4 hours here. The views from the park alone are worth the visit, but be sure to book a skip-the-line ticket to avoid the long queues!
Site location: 08024 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.414429, 2.152701
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5. Palau Guell
This palace was built by Gaudí for the wealthy businessman Eusebi Guell, and although the building is not immediately recognisable as Gaudí 's work, its sheer detail and history make it a must-see.
Now you just have to make sure that you fit the Gaudí buildings into your day, as there are so many things to see that it would be difficult to squeeze them into a day.
To make things easier for you, book a private tour of Barcelona with a guide who will show you the hidden gems and sights you won't want to miss!
Site location: Carrer Nou de la Rambla, 3-5, 08001 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.378989, 2.174139
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6. Arc de Triomf
There are plenty of triumphal arches scattered around Europe's cities, and the Barcelona version is definitely worth a visit.
Want to see the Gothic Quarter and nearby Montjuic? Then book a Barcelona e-bike tour that takes you straight to the Arc de Triomf! It's a great way to explore Barcelona with the whole family. Plus, you'll get amazing views from the top.
Site location: Passeig de Lluís Companys, 08003 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.391367, 2.180225
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7. Casa Milà
The iconic Casa Mila, also known as La Pedrera, was designed by Gaudí in the early 1900s and is an excellent example not only of Gaudí's famous work, but also of first-rate modernist architecture.
If you are a fan of architecture, or even just Gaudí, this is one of the best things to do in Barcelona.
Just don't forget to book a fast-track ticket to get in! It can get super crowded, especially on weekends.
Site location: Pg. de Gràcia, 92, 08008 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.395097, 2.161960
Google Photos: Click here
8. The Gothic Quarter
This is Barcelona's old city centre, and it's an adventure to get lost in its labyrinthine streets. It's closed off from regular traffic, so you can wander around at your leisure, even aimlessly, taking in Barcelona's history.
Believe me, just walking around the Gothic Quarter is aimlessly wonderful! You're guaranteed to find lots of little gems. Plus, you can visit some fantastic restaurants in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter.
Then take a stroll along the Paseo de Gracia and pop into some small cafés and bars!
Site location: Area surrounded by La Rambla, Via Laietana, C. de Fontanella and Passeig de Colom
GPS coordinates: 41.379685, 2.174724
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9. Poble Espanyol
The Poble Espanyol is an architecture museum just a stone's throw from the Montjuïc magic fountain and well worth a visit.
The Poble Espanyol, one of the most interesting places in Barcelona, where you can walk among 117 buildings from the 15 Spanish autonomous regions. It's the best history lesson in all of Spain!
If you want to avoid the queue, book your skip-the-line ticket to get in right away! This way you can relax and wander around as much as you like, without having to queue for entry!
Site location: Av. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13, 08038 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.368785, 2.148271
Google Photos: Click here
10. Parc del Laberint d'Horta
One of Barcelona's oldest gardens, where you can walk and enjoy the scenery at any time. It's lovely to walk around on a sunny day. Be careful though, the sun can be very strong in Barcelona!
Site location: Passeig dels Castanyers, 1, 08035 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.439931, 2.145586
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11. Santa Maria del Mar
Another impressive Gothic church, Santa Maria del Mar, is also one of the oldest in Barcelona, dating back to the 14th century.
Honestly, it's one of the best things to do in Barcelona if you really want to see what a great history the city has. Plus, admission is completely free.
Don't forget to check out the various GetYourGuide Barcelona tours around the city too! You can cancel up to 24 hours before your sightseeing tour, which is great because plans can change quickly after arrival.
Site location: Plaça de Santa Maria, 1, 08003 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.384251, 2.182455
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12. Gaudí House Museum
Visit the home of Antoni Gaudí and learn more about his life in Barcelona, his world and the environment that influenced his architecture and art.
It's well worth a look, especially if you are interested in his life and work. Plus, if you're already in the park, it's a programme where you can relax.
Site location: Park Güell, Ctra. del Carmel, 23A, 08013 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.414569, 2.153443
Google Photos: Click here
13. Columbus Monument
This monument commemorates Christopher Columbus, and is an obvious reminder that Christopher Columbus visited the King and Queen of Barcelona after his first visit to the continent.
A quick little stop, but well worth a look while you're in Barcelona. Afterwards, head to the Mercado de La Boqueria for a taste of some of Barcelona's most famous markets!
Site location: Plaça Portal de la Pau, s/n, 08001 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.375653, 2.178065
Google Photos: Click here
14. Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC)
It almost goes without saying that you should visit a museum in a city like Barcelona.
And this museum is a real attraction. What's more, on Saturdays, after 3 pm, admission is completely free!
Site location: Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.368402, 2.152105
Google Photos: Click here
15. Placa d'Espanya
This is one of the biggest squares you should definitely stop by, along with many other attractions on the list. It's the perfect way to squeeze a little extra activity into a busy day.
Site location: 08004 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.374852, 2.149059
Google Photos: Click here
16. Casa Batlló
Another Gaudí masterpiece, Casa Batlló, is worth a visit for its stunning colours alone. It is one of the most beautiful Gaudí buildings to see in Barcelona. Just make sure you arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds! It's worth buying your ticket in advance if you don't want to spend time queuing.
Site location: Pg. de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona
GPS coordinates: 41.391813, 2.164963
Google Photos: Click here
We hope that our short summary has whetted your appetite for one of Europe's most vibrant cities, full of exciting sights and activities (we probably can't mention them all in one article).
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