Barcelona, Spain – The Ultimate Spanish Vacation Spot in 2024
Barcelona, Spain is a captivating city located in the northeast region of Catalonia. Known for its unique blend of modernist architecture, busy markets, and cultural heritage, Barcelona amazed me from the moment I arrived. Beyond the beautiful design of the city, Barcelona offers an irresistible culinary scene, a fun nightlife, and a welcoming atmosphere that invites exploration and wandering. My husband and I have visited three cities in Spain, and Barcelona takes the number one spot! If you want to truly experience Barcelona, I can help you with that!
Day 1 – Arrival and First Impressions
Stay: Bogatell Area
Barcelona is super well connected with public transportation, so this is definitely a city where you can save some money by not staying in the city center while also not wasting half your time getting to and from the main attractions. We stayed at the ibis Styles Barcelona City Bogatell, which was perfect for our stay. It was affordable and there was even a rooftop pool! It was an affordable, budget-friendly option and was a 20 min public transit ride to La Sagrada Familia or a 30 minute walk. We are big proponents of exploring a city by walking, so we usually took walked into the city center to stumble upon different neighborhoods.
Morning
Start your day at a local café for breakfast. We went to Granier, just a 10-minute walk from the hotel, to enjoy traditional Café con Leche and share some delicious pastries.
After breakfast, we took a leisurely walk over to La Sagrada Familia. This iconic basilica, designed by Antoni Gaudí, has been under construction since 1882 and is one of the most extraordinary churches in the world. Today, take time to marvel at the massive structure and its complex, intricate exterior, noting how its design draws on both Gothic and Art Nouveau forms. We purchased tickets in advance to go inside on day three, and we suggest you also buy your tickets in advance as it spots can sell out. Tickets can be purchased here – Tickets – Sagrada Família – Sagrada Familia.
Next, stroll along the famous Las Ramblas, a bustling street that stretches just over a mile from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell. Historically, the street was a riverbed separating Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter from El Raval. Make sure to stop at St. Joseph La Boqueria Market, which was established in 1217, where you can grab a sandwich or indulge on the fresh fried seafood offered at the diverse stalls. After grabbing a snack, continue walking towards the Columbus Monument, which was erected in 1888 to commemorate Columbus’s first voyage to the Americas, and enjoy views of the sea.
From here, head over to Maremagnum Mall, situated right on the water. This mall is located on a man-made island in the Old Port area, which has been transformed from a once industrial harbor to a modern leisure and shopping area. Walk around the dock area and take in Barcelona from a different perspective while enjoying some shopping.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, explore Plaza del Pi and the Ciutat Vella, the Old Town of Barcelona. Plaza del Pi, named after the pine tree in the square, is home to the Gothic Church of Santa Maria del Pi, dating back to the 14th century. Take in the amazing architecture and the vibrant history of this area, which reflects Barcelona’s medieval past.
Eating times in Spain are generally later than in the USA, with locals not slowing down for lunch until closer to 2pm or later. Around this time, we stopped for lunch at Bilbao Berria La Barra, a tapas bar with a cool atmosphere. Savor some tapas and try Barcelona’s famous Estrella beer. Afterward, visit the beautiful church at Plaça Nova, known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, which dates back to the 13th century. Then walk to Plaça Reial, a stunning plaza designed by Francesc Daniel Molina i Casamajó, which becomes even more magical at night with its ferry lights and palm trees.
Evening
Once the sun starts setting, spend your evening getting lost in the Labyrinth Park of Horta. This historical garden, created by Italian architect Domenico Bagutti, is the oldest preserved garden in the city. Enjoy wandering through the neoclassical labyrinth, lush gardens, and admiring the fountains, a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
We chose to end the day with a surprisingly delicious dinner at Takumi Sapporo Ramen Kitchen. After snacking on Spanish food all day, we wanted to try a different cuisine and were surprised to find the best ramen we’ve ever had is in a small restaurant in Barcelona. It was the perfect end to a day full of exploration and enjoyment.
Day 2 – Art and Cobblestone Streets
Morning
Our first stop was the famous bull ring, Plaza de Toros de las Arenas, which provided a fascinating glimpse into Spain’s cultural history. Afterward, we visited the impressive Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, Barcelona. This art museum is not only grand and stunning from the outside, but also houses a splendid art collection that you can wander for hours. Some of the must-see arts housed here include the Romanesque fresco “Christ in Majesty” by Sant Climent de Taüll, Gothic piece “The Madonna of the Counselors,” Renaissance and Baroque art by El Greco, and original furniture designed by Antoni Gaudí.
Next, we took a leisurely stroll to explore more of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. This historic area is a maze of narrow, winding streets filled with medieval buildings, quaint shops, and active plazas. The Gothic Quarter’s rich history and unique buildings make it our favorite and a must-visit part of the city. We spent hours over the course of our trip wandering these narrow streets!
Afternoon
Once we were tired from all the walking, we stopped for lunch. We enjoyed tapas on bread with fresh sangria!
In the afternoon, we headed to the Picasso Museum. It was intriguing to see how Picasso’s art skills developed over his lifetime through the extensive collection of his works on display. Each piece told a story, reflecting different periods and influences in his life.
Evening
As the evening approached, we made our way to Passieg del Born, a lively area perfect for unwinding. We got some drinks and spent some time reflecting on our trip so far, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and the beauty of the surroundings. Our final walk of the day took us to the L’Arc de Triomf, an impressive archway that serves as a gateway to the Parc de la Ciutadella. The structure was beautifully lit up, providing a perfect backdrop for a peaceful evening stroll.
Day 3 – The Stunning La Sagrada Familia and Delightful Spanish Cuisine
Morning
After breakfast, take a stroll through the close by Parc de la Ciutadella. This magnificent park is a green oasis with stunning fountains, lush gardens, and plenty of benches and grassy areas to relax. The park’s centerpiece is the magnificent Cascada Monumental, which we admired while soaking up the sun!
Next, head back over to one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks, La Sagrada Familia. Today is the day we entered the extraordinary church. While we explored the inside, we listened to the free audio guide by Rick Steves, which provided insightful commentary on the history and design of the church. The stained-glass windows are particularly breathtaking, with colors that mirror the hues of sunrise and sunset, creating a dynamic, almost living atmosphere inside the basilica as the light filters in throughout the day.
Afternoon
For today’s mid-day tapas stop, we dined at El Pintxo de Petritxol. They had an amazing selection of different tapas, some with fresh seafood which were delicious.
Evening
In the evening, make your way to the lively Placa Reial. This bustling square is filled with energy and is a great spot to unwind. After that, we headed over to Placa de Sant Jaume. We enjoyed a wine and cheese tasting at one of the square’s charming wine bars, Zona d’Ombra, pairing excellent local wines with a selection of delicious cheeses and more tapas.
After indulging in delicious Spanish flavors, we needed more and decided the finish the day with a sweet treat! Crema Catalana is a traditional Catalan dessert similar to creme brulee. We went back to Placa Reial, to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and caught some live music.
Day 4: Beautiful Views and The Best Patatas Bravas!
Morning
As always, we started the day with a delightful breakfast of pastries from a local bakery.
After breakfast, we visited the enchanting Park Güell. This park was designed by Antoni Gaudí and is a colorful wonderland of mosaic-covered structures, winding pathways, and unique architectural elements. The park is also offers stunning, panoramic views of Barcelona.
Afternoon
We dined at Chelo Cafe for lunch. It’s located on a charming little square, Placa de Vincenc Martorell, where people are often reading and socializing. After indulging in tapas for most of our meals in Barcelona, we opted for delicious guacamole and sandwiches while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere. The combination of fresh ingredients and the café’s outdoor seating makes it a perfect midday stop.
Evening
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around the El Poble-sec neighborhood. This area is known for its vibrant streets, filled with tapas bars, cafes, and a lively local atmosphere. It’s a great area to walk around and get lost in, allowing you to discover its hidden gems and charming corners.
Next, we decided to take a ride on the Port Cable Car (Telefèric de Montjuïc). This cable car will take you up to Montjuïc Castle, offering stunning views of the city and the sea along the way. Arrive at the castle just in time for a beautiful sunset view over Barcelona for a truly unforgettable sight.
For our last dinner in Barcelona, we enjoyed Bodega La Puntual. This was our favorite tapas bar of the whole trip! Their delicious menu, particularly their mouthwatering patatas bravas and flavor loaded croquettes, were a highlight of our trip! Here, you can enjoy a variety of tapas, each dish showcasing the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Barcelona.
Conclusion
My husband and I think Barcelona, Spain might be one of our top 3 travel destinations we have been to at this point! The welcoming, outgoing culture paired with some of the best food Europe has to offer makes Barcelona a city to experience and cherish. We made so many great memories wandering around Barcelona and were blown away by the magnificence of La Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, and the city’s food scene. If you’re considering a trip to Barcelona, book it now, it will be so worth it!
FAQs About Visiting Barcelona, Spain
Do I need to book tickets for major attractions in advance?
Absolutely! Booking tickets in advance for the big attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell is a must. Trust me, you’ll avoid long lines and ensure you actually get in, especially during peak tourist season.
What is the best way to get around Barcelona?
The public transport here is fantastic. The metro, buses, and trams will get you anywhere you need to go. Consider purchasing the Barcelona Card, which is super convenient for unlimited rides during your trip and discounts at various places. Walking is also great, especially in the Gothic Quarter where you can discover cool hidden spots.
Is it necessary to carry cash in Barcelona?
Yes, it’s a good idea to carry some cash. While most places accept cards, some smaller shops and cafes might prefer cash or have a minimum card payment amount. ATMs are everywhere, just watch out for pickpockets when you’re withdrawing money.
Is tipping expected in Barcelona?
Tipping isn’t a big deal here like in some other places. The staff gets a living wage, so it’s not expected to tip 20% like in the USA. However, if you had amazing service, leaving a few dollars in coins is a nice gesture.
What languages are spoken in Barcelona?
In Barcelona, they speak both Catalan and Spanish. Most signs are in both languages. Plus, a lot of people speak English, which makes things even easier. Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish or Catalan can be fun and appreciated, though!
What are the best areas to stay in Barcelona?
Staying in the city center is super convenient. Areas like the Gothic Quarter, El Born, and Eixample are fantastic because you’re close to major attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. It might be a bit pricier, but it saves you time and makes exploring the city so much easier. If you’re looking to save money, I enjoyed staying in the Bogatell area.
