Barcelona has seduced visitors for decades, drawing them in with its striking modernist architecture — from the towering Sagrada Familia to the whimsical Park Güell, both masterpieces of visionary Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. But as gorgeous as the buildings are, there’s so much more to Barcelona: its lively beaches and promenades, its maze-like neighborhood steeped in history and its quintessentially Mediterranean lifestyle.
While worries about overtourism in Spain’s second-biggest city (behind Madrid) persist, mindful travelers are always welcome. Consider visiting in the spring or fall to avoid peak tourist seasons, support local businesses and respect residential areas, especially at night. Check those boxes and you can fully appreciate these 10 attractions that give you a glimpse of the best Barcelona offers.
Marvel at La Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia has famously remained unfinished since its construction began in 1882, but with an estimated finish date of 2026 to mark the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death, its completion finally feels within reach. With the landmark’s realization, Barcelona’s skyline will change, as Gaudí’s masterpiece will become the tallest church in the world at 566 feet, when the last of its six central towers is done. The tower will allow up to 11 visitors to enjoy sweeping city views at a time from this new vantage point. If you plan to visit before the official reopening, you’ll be happy to know there are new cathedral areas already open to the public.
Stroll Through Park Güell
You’ll feel like you’re in Wonderland at this fantastical modernist park designed by the creative genius of Gaudí and entrepreneur Eusebi Güell, who gave the complex of gardens and parks its name. Originally conjured as a private estate for well-to-do families, Park Güell’s greenery, tile mosaics and famous viaducts are now enjoyed by millions of locals and visitors each year. Set aside a few hours and stroll through the park in search of the iconic mosaic lizard that’s become a city symbol.
Wander the Gothic Quarter
Barri Gòtic, as it’s locally called, is the oldest part of the city, dating back to Roman times. Its narrow, winding streets and maze-like alleys are lined with quirky cafés and shops for you to discover. The Barcelona Cathedral and remnants of Roman walls are unmissable, as is Plaça Reial, a vibrant square surrounded by arcades, palm trees and charming restaurants, perfect for soaking in the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere.
Relax at Barceloneta Beach
As soon as the sunny weather arrives, Barceloneta Beach becomes the city’s epicenter. A short walk from the heart of town, this stretch of Mediterranean coastline is lined with chiringuitos (beachside bars) for you to enjoy tapas and sangría. When the sun starts to set, take a stroll down the promenade, the Passeig Maritim, stopping by Frank Gehry’s El Peix d’Or sculpture and the sail-shaped W Barcelona to admire its lights reflecting on the water.
Visit the Picasso Museum
Five conjoined medieval palaces with Catalan Gothic architecture house the Picasso Museum in the district El Born. The space alone is worth a visit, but with a permanent collection comprising approximately 5,000 pieces, most from his formative years, visitors are able to appreciate Picasso’s early mastery of realism before he transitioned to the innovative styles that defined his career. While the painter was originally from Málaga, he lived in the city with his family during his youth and returned often throughout his lifetime.
Sample local delights at La Boqueria Market
Officially the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, this market in Ciutat Vella has become an unmissable experience in Barcelona. With one entrance at La Rambla, a wide boulevard running through the heart of the city center, this is a popular place for lunch or a light snack at one of its many bars. Try to visit in the morning, when the market is in full swing, and make sure you sample the variety of local products on offer: olives, cheese and, of course, jamón iberico.
Discover Montjuïc Hill
There’s plenty to do at Montjuïc Hill (meaning “Jewish Mountain”), from taking in the views of the city and the sea from Montjuïc Castle to visiting the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, famous for its nightly water and light shows. Art lovers can spend a few hours admiring the impressive collections at the Fundació Joan Miró or the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya. For a change of pace, ride on the Montjuïc cable car, enjoy panoramic vistas or go for a walk through the Montjuïc Gardens to take a break from the city.
Admire Casa Batlló and Casa Milà
On the prestigious Passeig de Gràcia, Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (also known as La Pedrera) are two of Gaudí’s most celebrated works. Covered in shards of stained glass, Casa Batlló is often compared to Claude Monet’s Water Lilies for the way the building’s colors glimmer and shift from blue to green in the changing light. Nearby, Casa Milà stands tall with its twisted white pillars stemming from the roof and undulating stone facade. You’re less likely to encounter crowds here than at other Gaudí landmarks, and if you visit in the summer, you can enjoy classical music concerts on the rooftops.
Shop at the trendy boutiques in El Born
El Born has all the charm of Barri Gòtic but with considerably fewer crowds. Its medieval streets are lined with trendy boutiques and artisan workshops where you can pick up unique home decor and handmade jewelry. Come nighttime, its bars come alive with hip young locals having a good time, making this a great spot to spend an evening basking in everyday local life.
Feast on calçots
While not necessarily an attraction, feasting on calçots (sweet green onions) is both a cultural and culinary experience you won’t want to miss if you’re traveling to Catalonia when they’re in season. From approximately November to May, these vegetables are charred over an open flame and dipped in romesco (a local sauce made with roasted red peppers and tomatoes). They’re typically enjoyed at friends’ houses during a calçotada (a traditional Catalan barbecue), but visitors can order them at traditional masias (rustic countryside estates) like Can Travi Nou and Can Cortada.
