A guide to top attractions in Barcelona: Part One
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Discover the top attractions in Barcelona, from art and food to soccer and vibrant nightlife. Barcelona stands out as an exceptional city break destination. Part of what makes this city a tourist magnet is the incredible range of activities and sights. Explore the landmarks of Ciutat Vella and the Gothic District, and then immerse yourself in the local neighborhood scenes of Gracia with its friendly bodegas.
For a more relaxed vibe, head to one of the many beaches lining the Mediterranean coastline. Here, you can enjoy beach bars and seafood restaurants while soaking up balmy summer evenings. As the capital of Catalonia, locals take immense pride in their unique identity, evident in the local language, impressionist architecture, and the outgoing, sociable culture. Plan your visit to discover the top attractions in Barcelona and experience its rich cultural tapestry and vibrant atmosphere.
Top attractions in Barcelona: Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, one of the top activities in Barcelona. This stunning Art Nouveau masterpiece, designed by the legendary architect Antoni Gaudí, began construction in 1882 and remains unfinished. Its intricate details, both inside and out, attract countless visitors daily. Furthermore, every element of the design embodies profound religious symbolism, best understood through guided tours.
Immerse yourself in the church’s beauty for a couple of hours, relax at a café on Avinguda Gaudí, with the magnificent structure as your backdrop. Indeed, Gaudí’s influence permeates the city, yet nowhere is it more palpable than beneath the towering spires of the Sagrada Familia.
Therefore, plan your trip to Sagrada Familia and experience the heart of Gaudí’s architectural brilliance in Barcelona. Finally, ready to discover one of the top activities in Barcelona?
Location
Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain
Opening Hours
November through February: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Sundays from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm.
March and October: Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. Saturdays from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Sundays from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm.
April through September: Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. Saturdays from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Sundays from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm.
The opening times and days may occasionally be modified by the management due to special events taking place inside the Basilica.
Special opening hours
On 25 and 26 December, 1 and 6 January, opening hours will be from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Sagrada Familia for Free
You can visit the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona for free on special occasions. The church offers free entrance during events like the festivities of La Mercè in September. Additionally, certain groups, such as children under 11, people with disabilities, the unemployed (on Wednesdays from 2 pm), ICOM members, and Barcelona Press Card holders, can get free tickets all year round.
Getting Here
Metro: Lines L2 and L5 – Sagrada Família
Bus: Lines 19, 33, 34, D50, H10, B24
General Entrance: Access through the Nativity façade, located on Carrer de la Marina.
Group Entrance: Access through the group entrance located on Carrer de la Marina.
Educational Centers: Baccalaureate groups should use the group entrance located on Carrer de la Marina.
Tickets can only be purchased online. For Price consult the official Sagrada Familia web site.
Where to Stay
Plan a trip to see the iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Find accommodations near Sagrada Familia with our official partner, Expedia.
Top attractions in Barcelona: Park Güell
Discover Park Güell is one of the top attractions in Barcelona with Panoramic Views. Originally envisioned as a garden city, Park Güell is a public park in Barcelona that brilliantly showcases the surreal and symbolic art of Antoni Gaudí. Perched atop a hill, the park offers breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona. Signature touches by Gaudí, including vibrant mosaics and expansive terraces, are scattered throughout the park.
During the summer, Park Güell comes alive with musicians busking in the shade, creating a lively and enchanting atmosphere. In winter, the park provides a more subdued experience, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets. Don’t miss the Gaudí House Museum within the park grounds, where you can learn more about the visionary creator’s life and work. While entry to the park is free, some attractions within require a paid ticket.
Address
Gràcia, 08024 Barcelona, Spain
Opening Hours
Open: September–March: daily from 8.30 am – 17.30 pm (closing times vary by month). April–August: daily from 7.30 am to 8.30 pm
The park is open year-round, with specific opening hours:
General Opening Hours: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
Special Opening Hours: “BON DIA BARCELONA” from 7:00 am to 9:30 am and “BON VESPRE BARCELONA” from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Getting Here
Park Güell is easily accessible by public transportation:
Metro: Take the green line (L3) to Lesseps station3. It’s a 20-minute walk to the park.
Bus: Lines H6 and D40 stop near the park3. From the bus stop, it’s a 10-minute walk.
Private Vehicle: There is a parking area at Travessera de Dalt – Park Güell.
Taxi: There is a taxi stand on Carretera del Carmel.
Where to Stay
Plan a trip to see the iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Find accommodations near Park Güell.
Top attractions in Barcelona: Casa Batlló
Experience Casa Batlló, one of the top attractions in Barcelona. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning Casa Batlló, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Antoni Gaudí’s most vibrant creations. Located on Barcelona’s famous Paseo de Gracia, this architectural gem was restored and redesigned by Gaudí between 1904 and 1906.
Every inch of Casa Batlló is a testament to Gaudí’s creativity, imagination, and unparalleled artistic techniques. From the enchanting entrance hall and indoor garden to the whimsical loft and intricate facade, the building feels like a house straight out of a children’s fantasy picture book. Don’t miss the highlights, including the unique mushroom-shaped fireplace, mesmerizing stained-glass windows, and the roof that resembles a dragon. Plan your visit to Casa Batlló and immerse yourself in Gaudí’s fantastical world. Discover the magic of Casa Batlló today and experience one of the top attractions in Barcelona!
Location
Pg. de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
Opening Hours
Every day: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM Last admission: 9:15 PM Duration of the visit: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Getting Here
Metro: L3 and L4 – Passeig de Gràcia, L1 – Pl. Catalunya (10-minute walk), L5 – Diagonal (10-minute walk)
Bus: 7, 22, V15 – Passeig de Gràcia – Aragó, 24 – Passeig de Gràcia – Consell de Cent
Train: R2 Nord and R2 Sud – Passeig de Gràcia, R1, R3, and R4 – Pl. Catalunya (10-minute walk)
Where to Stay
Plan your trip in Barcelona. Find accommodations near Casa Batlló.
Picasso Museum
Explore the Picasso Museum: One of the top attractions in Barcelona Delve into the world of Pablo Picasso at the Picasso Museum in Barcelona, home to around 4,000 original works by the legendary Spanish artist. This must-visit museum offers a unique opportunity to trace the development of Picasso’s iconic Cubist style. The artworks are displayed chronologically, starting with his classical paintings and progressing to his most famous pieces. You’ll also gain insights into how his relationship with Barcelona influenced his distinctive artistic techniques.
Housed in five stunning Catalan Gothic-styled palaces in Barcelona’s El Born neighborhood, the museum’s superb setting adds an extra layer of magic to your visit. Admission is free on Thursdays from 4 pm to 7 pm, the first Sunday of each month, as well as on February 12th and 13th, May 18th, and September 24th. Plan your visit to the Picasso Museum and immerse yourself in the artistic journey of one of the greatest artists of all time as part one of the top attractions in Barcelona.
Location
Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Opening Hours
From 1st November to 30th April: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM1
From 2nd May to 31st October: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday, 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM1; Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM1
Closed on Mondays and public holidays
Getting Here
The Picasso Museum is located at Carrer Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona2. Here are some ways to get there:
Metro: Lines L4 (Jaume I) and L1 (Arc de Triomf)
Bus: Lines 120, 45, V15, V17, H14, Passeig Picasso, H14, 45, 51, Pla de Palau, Princesa
Walking: It’s a short walk from Plaça Catalunya
Where to Stay
Plan your trip in Barcelona. Find accommodations near Picasso Museum.
Top attractions in Barcelona: Cathedral of Barcelona
Discover the Cathedral of Barcelona: A Gothic Gem with Rooftop Views. Explore one of the top attractions in Barcelona at the magnificent Cathedral, a stunning Gothic church dedicated to Santa Eulàlia, the patron saint of the city. Constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries, this architectural marvel boasts a neo-Gothic facade adorned with towering spires and intricate gargoyles inspired by both real and mythical creatures. Enjoy free entry to the cathedral in the morning or after 3:15 pm.
While at the cathedral, don’t miss the chance to explore the peaceful Cloister. This tranquil space features geese, small chapels, palm trees, a fountain, and a museum. For just a few euros, take the elevator to the rooftop and relish breathtaking 360-degree views of Barcelona. Plan your visit to the Cathedral of Barcelona and experience its rich history and stunning vistas as part of the top attractions in Barcelona.
Location
Pla de la Seu, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM (last admission at 6:00 PM)
Saturday: 9:30 AM to 5:15 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
Sunday and Holidays: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
Getting Here
Metro: Lines L3 (Liceu) and L4 (Jaume I)
Bus: Lines 45, V15, V17
Walking: It’s a short walk from Plaça Catalunya
Where to Stay
Plan your trip in Barcelona. Find accommodations near Chatedral of Barcelona.
Top attractions in Barcelona: Las Ramblas
Explore Las Ramblas, one of the top attractions in Barcelona for tourists. Take a leisurely stroll along Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s bustling and vibrant tourist hotspot. This lively 1-km street serves as the epicenter of tourism in the city, stretching from Plaça Catalunya in the north to Drassanes Station in the south. The Liceu Theatre, located roughly halfway down Las Ramblas, is an excellent landmark to help you navigate. Discover a myriad of shopping and dining options amidst the constant buzz of activity, with an array of street artists and performers captivating passersby. While there’s always something to catch your eye, it’s wise to stay vigilant for pickpockets known to frequent this area
Although locals often lament that the restaurants along Las Ramblas are overpriced, the charm of sipping a coffee or glass of cava while soaking in the lively atmosphere is undeniably appealing. Is it touristy? Absolutely. Is it worth a visit? Without a doubt. Plan your visit to Las Ramblas today and experience one top attractions in Barcelona!
Location
La Rambla is a 1.2km boulevard that goes through the Old City, dividing the Gothic area and El Raval.
Opening Hours
Las Ramblas is a boulevard and so is open 24/7, but the attractions and shops along the boulevard have varying hours. For example, the La Boqueria Market opens from 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM Monday to Saturday and is closed on Sundays.
Getting Here
Metro: Take the L3 (Green Line) and get off at Liceu or Drassanes stations.
Bus: Several bus lines, including 24, 59, 67, 120, D20, D50, H14, H16, V13, and V15, stop near Las Ramblas.
Walking: It’s a short walk from Plaça Catalunya and other central areas.
Where to Stay
Plan your trip in Barcelona. Find accommodations near Las Ramblas.
Barceloneta Beach
Discover Barceloneta Beach, take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea at Barceloneta Beach, one of thetop attractions in Barcelona and most popular beaches. Just a 20-minute walk from Las Ramblas or a short metro ride to Barceloneta Station, this wide, sandy beach is buzzing with life throughout the day.
At Barceloneta Beach, you can rent sun loungers and relax at numerous chiringuitos (small beachside restaurants) to soak up the sun. Be prepared for the frequent calls of hawkers selling drinks, snacks, and beach gear. For a quieter beach experience, head to Nova Icària Beach further up the coast for a more serene setting.
Location
Located in the traditional fishing district. Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, 16, 08003 Barcelona
Opening Hours
Barceloneta Beach is open 24/7, but the attractions and shops along the beach have varying hours.
Information point and times: Espai de Mar (arcades beneath the Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, no. July, August and the first fortnight in September: daily from 11am to 2pm. June and the second fortnight in September: weekends and public holidays, from 11am to 2pm.
Sports and other activities
Gymnastics area, beach volleyball, beach tennis, table tennis. Barcelona’s beaches are currently smoke-free spaces. Smoking is prohibited on the beach.
Getting Here
Metro: Take the Yellow Line (L4) and get off at Barceloneta Station. From there, walk straight along Passeig de Joan de Borbo for about 10 minutes until you reach the beach.
Bus: Several bus lines, including 45, 59, and D20, stop near Barceloneta Beach.
Walking: It’s a short walk from Las Ramblas and other central areas.
Where to Stay
Plan your trip in Barcelona. Find accommodations near Barceloneta Beach.
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