When traveling to Spain, Barcelona is an essential stop. Energetic and alluring, here’s a suggested itinerary to ensure you don’t miss a thing in the capital of Catalonia.
Day 1
A little shopping
In Barcelona, a walkable city, everything is within walking distance. Head to the El Born neighbourhood, a maze of charming narrow streets filled with hidden tapas bars and Catalan designer boutiques, perfect for taking home a unique souvenir.
Start your morning wandering these enchanting alleyways. Explore boutiques such as Danilasmon, for chic bohemian jewellery, or Ozz Barcelona, which showcases emerging designers and also houses a co-working space. Don’t miss La Tercera, Ivori and Blended for unique fashion pieces and Mi&Co for a stylish swimsuit. With a mix of slow fashion, originality and ethical practices, you’ll fall in love with what they have to offer.
Once you have quenched your shopping thirst, head to the Picasso Museum. Housed in a beautiful medieval building, this museum showcases lesser-known works by the artist and offers a fresh perspective on Picasso’s genius, far removed from what is typically seen in major international museums.
A delicious tapas lunch
For lunch, head to El Xampanyet, a 1929 tapas bar popular with tourists and locals alike. Located near the Picasso Museum, this historic bar offers a lively atmosphere and an exceptional selection of traditional tapas. Enjoy a variety of small plates such as jamón ibérico, marinated anchovies and patatas bravas. Standing at the bar or squeezed in around small tables, you’ll experience the true essence of Catalan tapas culture, leaving you licking your fingers in delight.
A taste of Gaudí
Immerse yourself in the world of Antoni Gaudí, a pioneer of Catalan modernism and an architectural icon of Barcelona. Seven of his works are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a testament to his visionary genius. Spend the afternoon exploring some of his masterpieces:
- Palau Güell: This opulent mansion, designed for industrialist Eusebi Güell, showcases Gaudí’s early work and innovative use of space and light.
- Casa Milà (La Pedrera): Famous for its undulating stone façade and wrought-iron balconies, this house is a marvel of architectural creativity and engineering.
- Casa Batlló: A transformation of an earlier house, this colourful, fantastic building is a prime example of Gaudí’s mastery of form, colour and light.
Each of these architectural wonders will leave you in awe of Gaudí’s unique blend of artistry and structural innovation.
Dinner at El Nacional
For dinner, we recommend El Nacional, a grand gastronomic space just a few minutes from your hotel. This iconic venue has four beautifully decorated bars and restaurants, each offering a different culinary experience. Choose from a variety of Spanish and Mediterranean dishes, all prepared with the finest ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and elegant, making it the perfect place to end your first day in Barcelona.
Day 2
Trendy brunch
To start your second day off right, head to the popular Brunch & Cake around 10 a.m. This trendy, daylight-flooded spot is a favourite with Barcelona’s young and hip crowd. The menu offers hearty, aesthetically pleasing and very tasty breakfasts – a must-visit in the city. Indulge in dishes such as avocado toast, rainbow smoothie bowls and fluffy pancakes, all beautifully presented and delicious.
Another Gaudí masterpiece
After brunch, head to the magnificent Sagrada Familia. Book your tickets at least a day in advance to avoid long queues. This colossal basilica, Gaudí’s magnum opus, is a breathtaking sight. Spend the morning exploring its intricate facades, towering spires and breathtaking interior. Learn about the history and ongoing construction of this architectural marvel, which is scheduled for completion in 2026. The Sagrada Familia is a testament to Gaudí’s boundless creativity and visionary spirit.
An afternoon at the beach
When your visit is over, hop on the Metro for an afternoon at the beach. You have a couple of great options:
Barceloneta: Stroll through this former fishing neighbourhood, known for its lively atmosphere and vibrant beach scene. For a touch of luxury, head to the exclusive terrace of the W Hotel’s Salt Beach Club. For around €20 a day, you can enjoy comfortable loungers and excellent service, making it the perfect place to relax, especially at sunset.
Poblenou: Opt for the larger beach in this industrial area. Poblenou offers a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds. For dinner, don’t miss Xiringuito Escribà, a beachfront restaurant popular with locals. Their paella is highly recommended for an authentic taste of coastal Catalan cuisine.
Day 3
Adventure at Montjuïc
For your third and final day, get an early start and head to Montjuïc, a green hill overlooking the old port and historic city. This area offers some of the best panoramic views of Barcelona. There are several attractions to choose from:
- National Palace: Home to the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, which houses an extensive collection of Catalan art.
- Montjuïc Castle: A historic fortress offering stunning views and an insight into Barcelona’s military past.
- Botanical Garden: Wander through this tranquil space with a wide variety of Mediterranean plants.
- A visit to the Joan Miró Foundation is highly recommended. Dedicated to the works of Joan Miró, this museum is a must for fans of his colourful and contemporary art.
Lunch in the Eixample
Next, head to the grand avenues of the Eixample district and stop for lunch at Parking Pizza. This popular restaurant is known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy a relaxed meal in a stylish setting and recharge your batteries for the afternoon ahead.
Ascent to Parc Güell
After lunch, climb to Parc Güell, another of Gaudí’s unfinished dreams and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This whimsical park, with its colourful mosaics and fairytale architecture, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and artistic wonder. Stroll through the lush gardens, explore the enchanting structures and take in the panoramic views of the city.
Tapas in Gràcia
After this immersion in nature, head south to Gràcia, a charming neighbourhood frequented by Barcelona’s trendy crowd. Don’t miss Casa Vicens, Gaudí’s first major architectural work, which is less well known than its counterparts, but just as unique.
Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the neighbourhood, do some shopping on Verdi Street and finish with some well-deserved tapas at the excellent La Pepita restaurant. Enjoy a variety of delicious small plates, each bursting with flavour and made with local ingredients.
Rooftop sunset
Finish your journey with a final glass of cava on the sublime rooftop of the Mandarin Oriental. Here you can fully appreciate the views and the incredible vibrancy of Barcelona. Watch the sun set over the city and reflect on the vibrant culture, stunning architecture and unforgettable experiences of your journey. It’s only goodbye for now – Barcelona will surely call you back.
All photo credits: Laure Juilliard
