Best Things To Do in Barcelona

See Also

• Accommodation Options in Barcelona
• Where to Remain in Key West
• Suitable Hotels in Barcelona for Families

The Best Tours in Barcelona

Note: Walking tours, food tours, and cooking courses are amazing ways to learn about local food, culture, and history. I recommend them everywhere – but especially in Barcelona. Book early, as they get sold out months in advance.

• 1. Market to Fork: Market Tour and Private Cooking Experience – Our preferred tour option in Barcelona.
• 2. Priority access and guided tour of Sagrada Familia
• 3. Half-day Spanish cooking class and La Boqueria market tour
• 4. Barcelona Food & History Tour
• Baglioni Hotel Luna – Hotel contact number: +39 041 528 9840
• 6. Coastal Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour with pick-up and drop-off in Barcelona.

The Best 37 Things To Do in Barcelona

Sagrada Família

Antoni Gaudí’s renowned church – the emblem of Barcelona and the city’s most frequented attraction. The Sagrada Família is an active house of worship, consecrated in 2010 and slated for completion in 2026, on the hundredth anniversary of Gaudí’s passing. Though you will have seen the church’s unique spires from a distance, nothing truly makes you ready for what you discover up close. Pick up the excellent audio guide to steer you through the church’s many features. Its extraordinary interior gives the illusion of being in a forest, with soaring columns blossoming with leaves and branches, and stained glass windows filtering light in a myriad of different hues. Visitors can opt to take the elevator up the Passion and Nativity towers; the Nativity Tower is more engaging and allows a close view of the spires, as well as partial views of the city. To beat the crowds, purchase tickets online both for the church and the tower elevators. All tickets are for a specific date and time; during peak season (summer), book days in advance. There are also very good guided tours of the Sagrada Família (with skip the lines tickets).
• Carrer de Mallorca, 401
• Nearest metro: Sagrada Família

Museu Picasso

Picasso is regarded as one of Spain and the world`s most important twentieth century artists. He spent his formative years from age fourteen to twenty-three in Barcelona after which he went to Paris and transformed the art world. While this museum may not house Picasso`s most famous works, the extensive collection charts his artistic evolution from his youth up until his final paintings from the French Riviera. The art is spread across five medieval palaces, starting with his boyhood pencil sketches, landscapes of Barcelona from his art school period, and private portraits of family members. Further along is a copy of a portrait by Velázquez from Picasso`s days in Madrid learning to duplicate the masters at the Prado museum. Subsequent rooms reflect his time in Barcelona socializing with an avant-garde group. Impressionist landscapes, still lifes, and paintings of cancan dancers document his life in Paris, before transitioning to works from his moody Blue Period and a few Cubist pieces. Don`t miss the Mediterranean scenes from his later years spent in Cannes, or the ceramics in Room 16. Try to visit early on weekdays as this museum gets very crowded.
• Carrer Montcada, 15-23
• Nearest metro: Jaume I

Park Güell

Antoni Gaudí`s unique park, situated on the northern boundary of Barcelona, was one of the artist`s most ambitious projects and stands as one of the city`s most popular attractions. The highly regarded Zona Monumental section – which necessitates an admission fee with tickets valid for designated half-hour windows – is best to reserve online in advance. Originally intended as a private housing complex with recreational areas, only a couple of the planned dwellings ended up being constructed and the park opened to the public in 1922 instead. Highlights involve two gingerbread-style houses just past the main entrance (though one houses a fairly unnecessary museum to miss), a ceramic dragon fountain, and a monumental stairway that ascends to the enormous Hall of Columns, initially planned as the market of the housing complex – the odd angles of its towering Doric columns make it appear like a petrified woodland. Continue upward to the “path of columns”, where organic-looking stone arcades support a lengthy arcade. The terrace atop the Hall of Columns is flanked by a meandering ceramic bench, covered in colorful fragmented tile-and-glass mosaic, and there is a terrific view of the city from here. It`s worth stopping by the Gaudí House Museum as well – the pink building in the center of the park where Gaudi once lived.
• Location
• Nearest metro: Vallarca

Casa Batlló

Gaudí`s remarkable ocean-inspired apartment building. In the late 1800s, Gaudí was hired to redesign an ordinary apartment building. The results are striking. There are hardly any straight lines in the entire structure, and an organic feel characterizes the whole building. The exterior contains balconies that resemble toothy fish mouths or carnival masks, and the interior is just as fascinating. The audio guides are excellent (though somewhat lengthy), and point out interesting details you may otherwise miss. Aim one at a room, and the display screen comes alive reflecting the architect`s vision with fish and other deep sea creatures. From one room to the next, guests observe rippling walls, doorways, and window frames, shell-like ceiling patterns, and sinuous, polished wood handrails. Natural light fills the entire place, with the central stairwell and indoor courtyard creating the illusion of being underwater. The roof terrace sparkles with kaleidoscopic patterns made of broken ceramic tiles and glass covering undulating chimneys, arranged to portray the spine of the dragon slain by St George. As gift shops go, this one is exceptional.
– Passeig de Gràcia, 43
• Nearest metro: Passeig de Gràcia

La Boquería

Barcelona’s most iconic produce marketplace. Situated about halfway along the pedestrian passageway of La Rambla, St. Josep La Boquería sees large crowds of people. Here you discover stall after stall displaying local fruits and vegetables, meat counters with dangling legs of jamón and displays of botifarra (Catalan sausage) and chorizo, seafood counters piled high with razor clams and shrimp, olive counters providing dozens of diverse kinds of olives, and juice counters serving every fresh juice mix you can envision. The location is picturesque: the market hall is located in the colonnaded former courtyard of a now-defunct monastery. As the most visited marketplace in Barcelona, La Boquería attracts tourists, however many locals – such as Barcelona’s famous chefs – also shop here. Tip: disregard the juice and produce stalls near the very entrance of the marketplace, and venture farther in, where you pay lower costs for comparable goods. The tapas counters bordering the main marketplace region make an excellent stop for a snack and a beverage. Saturday is the most lively day to visit; the marketplace is closed on Sundays.
• La Rambla, 91
• Nearest metro: Liceu

Montjuïc

Situated above Barcelona`s harbour, Montjuïc hill is a dramatic landmark covered with extensive landscaped gardens and dotted with numerous attractions. Also known as “Mountain of the Jews” owing to the small Jewish community that previously inhabited its slopes, Montjuïc features a fortress at its summit and terraced grounds along its northern incline taken up by fountains, walkways and Neoclassical structures from the International Exhibition of 1929. Montjuïc is home to two of Barcelona`s most significant art collections as well as the Olympic stadium. Wandering through the lush hillside gardens is a joy, with terrific perspectives of the city and sea accessible from the cable cars rising to the zenith, the ramparts of the fortress, the Olympic terraces and the steps leading to the Museu Nacional. An easy way to explore Monjuïc is taking the funicular up from the metro and then the Telefèric de Montjuïc cable cars all the way to Castell de Montjuïc, the 18th century former military stronghold and jail. From here it`s simple and fun to meander down the signposted slopes toward the art galleries. Another cable car connects the lower Montjuïc inclines above the harbour• Location
• Take the metro to Paral.lel, then ride the funicular up Montjuïc mountain

Barcelona’s Beaches

Barcelona may not be known as a beach resort town, but its string of sandy beaches, stretching three miles east of the city center, are popular for visitors. The most central is the Sant Sebastià Beach that fringes part of Barceloneta peninsula and stretches from the W Barcelona hotel to the Club Natació. It’s a wide stretch of white sand, popular with older sunbathers and families. To the east, it morphs into Barceloneta Beach, lined with numerous seafood restaurants and cafes and complete with volleyball nets and showers. It’s paralleled by the palm-backed esplanade (Passeig Marítim), busy with cyclists, rollerbladers, runners and strolling beachgoers. The esplanade runs as far east at the Port Olímpic, a seafront development constructed for the 1992 Olympic Games, and containing a giant fish sculpture by Frank Gehry. Just east of Port Olímpic are the family-friendly Nova Icària and Bogatell beaches, with open-air cafes and playgrounds. Further along are Mar Bella,Nova Mar Bella and Llevant Beach, popular with a younger crowd (Mar Bella in particular has a designated nudist area).
• Nearest metro: Barceloneta

La Rambla

Stretching from the waterfront to the grand Plaça Catalunya, La Rambla forms a walkable promenade overlooked by stately architectural marvels from the nineteenth century and lined with eateries, historic sites and souvenir emporiums. This boulevard bustles with leisurely strollers, palm readers offering insights, and artists capturing caricatures, creating an ideal setting for people-watching. The Ramblas acts to separate the Barri Gòtic neighborhood to the east and the western El Raval area, and a relaxing walk along its 1.2 kilometer stretch takes approximately half an hour – or potentially longer if stopping along the route. Notable features include the monument to Columbus at the water`s edge, erected for the 1888 Universal Exposition fair, and the palm-dotted Plaça Reial, a beautiful arcade encircled by cafés. At the midpoint of the Ramblas lies the Liceu Metro station, showcasingthe Opera House, a vibrant ground mosaic by Joan Miró, and the lively La Boquería marketplace stocked with produce. Further along, flower merchants can be found and Betlem Church, a favored locale come Christmastime for Nativity scenes. Just before reaching the fountains and Art Deco structures at Plaça Catalunya, you’ll pass the black-and-gold Canaletes fountain. Legend has it a drink there ensures a return trip to Barcelona. Tip: steer clear of the eateries along the Ramblas, as you’ll find far superior quality even just a block or two away.
• Nearest metro: Drassanes, Catalunya

Barri Gòtic

The intricate Gothic Quarter located directly east of Las Ramblas marks the historic heart of Barcelona, with structures dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. The tangle of narrow roadways is lined with tapas bars, shops, museums and cafes, getting lost within exploring its maze-like layout can provide much amusement. Don`t miss the venerable Els Quatre Gats café where Picasso and fellow bohemian friends used to socialize, and behold the immense Catedral de Barcelona – Barcelona`s center of Christian worship since the 14th century. Additional notable spots encompass the ancient Roman Temple of Augustus, the Plaça de Sant Jaume, and the former Jewish quarter, housing its tiny synagogue now operating as a museum. The church at Plaça Sant Felip Neri was attended by Gaudí and still bears remnants of damage from the Spanish Civil War.
• Nearest metro: Liceu

MACBA

Barcelona’s premier contemporary art museum. The Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona’s striking glass-fronted white building really stands out against the backdrop of the surrounding buildings in El Raval. Inside, the museum makes terrific use of natural light, with the ramps leading up to the top floor giving a great view of the square outside, busy with stunt-performing skateboarders. The museum’s permanent collection focuses mostly on contemporary art movements in Catalunya and Spain since 1945, and portions of it are displayed at any given time in regularly changing themed exhibitions. Alongside the permanent collection there are typically two or three visiting exhibitions shown. These can be anything from sculpture and paintings by Catalan greats such as Antoni Tàpies or Joan Miró to installations by the likes of Francesc Torres and video productions by Martha Rosler.
• Plaça dels Àngels, 1
• Nearest metro: Universitat or Liceu

MUHBA

The ruins of Roman Barcelona located beneath the modern city showcase remains dating back to when the town of Barcino first stood in its place, established by Emperor Augustus. Visitors can view these excavated ruins, spread through an underground labyrinth of structures surrounding the Plaça del Rei, after watching an introductory video on Barcelona`s history at the excellent Barcelona History Museum (Museu d’Història de Barcelona). Taking the elevator down reveals artifacts ranging from approximately 12 BC to 600 AD. One can almost smell the centuries as laundry facilities, buildings where fabrics were dyed, and an old garum (fish sauce) manufacturing plant from Roman times are passed. Upstairs, displays explore medieval Barcelona`s growth into an important Mediterranean trade hub. The beautiful 14th century Santa Agata chapel holds occasional temporary exhibits and visitors can see a scale model of 16th century Barcelona on Floor 0. The vaulted Gothic Saló de Tinell (Tinell Hall) is where Christopher Columbus updated Ferdinand and Isabella about his New World discoveries and later served as the headquarters for the Spanish Inquisition.

• Top San Diego Hotels
• Nearest metro: Jaume I

La Pedrera

Gaudí`s unusual and amazing apartment complex. Designed by Gaudí for a wealthy industrialist, this UNESCO World Heritage Site represents one of the architect`s most iconic works. Unlike at Casa Batlló – another famous design by Gaudí, everything here was personally crafted by the artist, from the undulating facade inspired by the mountains of Montserrat to the tangled metal balconies of the apartments. The building`s two oval courtyards lead to an elevator that rapidly transports visitors to the astonishing rooftop lined with Gaudí`s rippling chimneys and with great urban views. Guests can also tour the vaulted attic where a multimedia exhibit details the architect`s career and various inspirational objects are displayed. Next walk through a typical early 20th century modernista apartment harnessing natural light superbly and including period furnishings. Nightly after-dark tours provide a glass of cava and involve a visit to the eerily illuminated rooftop. To bypass long queues, reserve your ticket online (with designated entry time) or arrive at La Pedrera by 9am • Plaça del Rei
• Nearest metro: Diagonal

Museu de Cultures del Mon

The Museum of World Cultures, located across from the Picasso Museum in two medieval palaces, houses treasures from around the globe. The assortment of masks, statues, and ritual items on display are from Africa, Oceania, the Americas, and Asia. While somewhat disorganized, the collection is still impressive, with most exhibits possessing deep spiritual meaning. The exhibition begins with guardians from Sudan and 15th-16th century art from the kingdom of Benin, as well as fertility statues and pieces related to death rites and ancestor veneration. An impressive hall features many African masks embellished with cowrie shells and feathers. The Oceania segment contains stunning crocodile carvings from Papua New Guinea, spirit house decorations, vast totem poles, guardian figures from Sumatra, and stone figures from Easter Island. Displays in the Asian galleries vary from Buddhist art and Korean ceramics to intricately-carved furniture from the Hindu Kush and Japanese Noh masks. Inca gold adornments, Nazca pottery, and Andean textiles are among the pre-Columbian artifacts in the Americas section.
Carrer de Montcada, 12, 14 is located at https://goo.gl/maps/KxfLNiGSJfQzvdMG9
• Nearest metro: Jaume I

Palau de la Música Orfeo Catala

The Modernist Centre in Barcelona, while Gaudi receives much praise, this incredible concert hall illustrates that there was more to the movement than just the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló. Covered with tiles and mosaics and boasting an elaborate front, this structure with 2,138 seats was built in 1908 by Modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, a colleague of Gaudi. Inside, Catalan music is celebrated through a series of playful Muse sculptures surrounding the main stage, and stained glass depictions of nature and music. The most notable feature is a stunning stained glass skylight, once considered an engineering impossibility, that transforms the concert hall into a “box of light”. There are two ways to tour the concert hall: join one of the excellent hour-long day visits (purchase tickets online at least two days in advance to reserve an English language tour), or ideally, attend a concert here during the September to June season.
• Palau de la Música, 4, 6
• Nearest metro: Urquinaona

Museu de Xocolata

The Museum of Chocolate, popular with families, outlines the history of chocolate – from the cultivation of cocoa by the Aztecs to its arrival in Europe; but the primary attractions here are the elaborate chocolate structures that vary annually. These range from edible models of Gaudí buildings, bullfighting scenes, religious icons, and Don Quixote on his horse to tasty football players, such as Lionel Messi. Each chocolate designer is credited by name and visitors can watch students learning to make chocolate sculpture in the kitchens of the adjacent Escola de Pastisseria. Admission price includes a chocolate sample, and there’s an attached café where you can drink it in liquid form. Great rainy day fun.
· Carrer del Comerç, 36
• Nearest metro: Jaume I, Arc de Triomf

Casa les Punxes

A strikingly modern architectural structure, finally accessible to the public. Its pointed turrets loftily towering above the Eixample neighborhood, the Casa de les Punxes (House of Spikes) resembles a Gothic castle that has been positioned in the center of the city. Designed by renowned modernist architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch and constructed in 1903, and until quite recently, visitors could solely admire its spectacular exterior: the tiled conical roofs that culminate in spikes, wrought iron balconies, beautiful stained glass windows, and the Gothic style sculpture by Alfons Juyol. But in 2016, the house opened to the public for the first time in over a century. Inside, exhibits tell the narrative of Sant Jordi, the dragon defeating patron saint of Catalonia. One of several interactive displays for kids has them hunting for dragon components throughout the design of the house. Take the elevator up to the roof terrace and check out the exhibits inside the turrets, about the Terradas family who the house was built for and the architect himself.
• Avinguda Diagonal, 420
• Nearest metro: Verdaguer

Casa Vicens

The first mansion designed by Gaudi, Casa Vicens was built for Manuel Vicens i Montaner, a wealthy Catalan stockbroker. The fanciful towers, colorful ceramics, and lavish window decorations demonstrate a clear Moorish influence, but the home`s rigid linear geometry differs noticeably from the undulating, organic forms of Gaudi`s later works – making it a fascinating place to tour in comparison. In fact, the house has only been accessible to the public since 2017, as it was privately owned until 2007 and took nearly a whole decade to restore to its former grandeur. The interior is as lavish and playful as one might imagine, with marble and mosaic floors, brightly colored tiles and stained glass windows, and several unusual murals and reliefs. Find it in the Bohemian district of Gracia.
• Carrer de les Carolines, 20
• Nearest metro: Fontana

Tibidabo

Barcelona’s oldest fairground occupying the city`s highest peak is Tibidabo. Very popular with families, this collection of vintage fairground rides sits at the top of Barcelona’s highest point. Most of the attractions – the Ferris wheel, the carousels, the suspended monorail – appeal to younger kids, but there are also thrill rides for adults. It’s worth visiting here for the panoramic views alone: on clear days, the entire city of Barcelona can be seen spread out below, with the Mediterranean Sea just beyond. There are several eateries available and plenty of snack stalls. Reaching Tibidabo is an enjoyable expedition itself: take the L7 metro line to the Tibidabo stop, then board Barcelona’s sole remaining tram – Tramvía Blau. Then, take the funicular that transports visitors directly to the mountain`s peak. It’s best to come on a weekday, when the crowds at the funfair are smaller.
• Location
• Nearest metro: Tibidabo

Camp Nou Stadium

The residence of one of the world`s most successful football clubs. If you`re an aficionado of football (soccer), you wouldn`t wish to miss touring the legendary home of Barcelona FC. It`s simple to obtain entry to the majority of home games, and if lucky enough to gain access to one of the large matches – particularly against fierce rivals Real Madrid – the atmosphere is remarkable! Even if you don`t attend a match, you can drop by for a day excursion of the stadium. Excursions take in the press room, the imposing trophy exhibition, the interactive museum displaying the career highlights of the football club, the warmup area where the players stretch before the game, and the football field itself. You can stock up on all the Barça merchandise you want at the gift shop.
• C. d’Arístides Maillol
• Nearest metro: Maria Cristina or Collblanc

Fundació Joan Miró

The world’s most extensive record of works by Catalan abstract artist Joan Miró can be found at this collection. Housed in a white modern architectural building, this collection loosely follows Miró’s entire artistic journey, though most of the paintings, tapestries and sculptures represent his later period. Miró was born in Barcelona, but shared his time between Paris and Catalunya before relocating to Majorca. His style is remarkably unique, with vivid hues and bold forms, and it appeals to those who appreciate abstract art, and children, who seem to genuinely understand the joy in his works. Notable pieces include his Impressionistic landscapes (1914), the Portrait of a Young Girl (1919), works from his Constellations series (1930s) highlighting his trademark reds and blues, and imagery of birds, women, the sun and moon; and the dark, meditative black-and-white lithographs from his Barcelona Series (1939-44) reflecting the turmoil of war. Don’t miss his enormous tapestries or the sculptures on the rooftop terrace. There are also excellent temporary exhibits by young, experimental artists, children’s theatrical performances and film screenings, and creations by famous artists paying tribute to Miró. It’s worth paying a little extra for the superb audio guide.”
– Parc de Montjuïc
• Nearest metro: Paral.lel, then take the Montjuïc funicular

Hospital de Sant Pau

This extravagant modernist public hospital in Barcelona is quite a spectacle to behold, rivaling even the renowned Sagrada Familia in terms of its lavish design. Architect Lluís Domènch i Montaner skillfully crafted this early 20th century medical complex adorned with ironwork, mosaics, stained glass, and sculptures. Its 23 dome-topped pavilions sit idyllically amid sculpted grounds dotted with fragrant orange trees. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it functioned as an active hospital until 2009 before transforming into a cultural museum and center in 2014. Occasional temporary exhibits are showcased within one of the pavilions while concerts are held at the central administration building. Otherwise, wander freely to admire the flourishing decorations embellishing this former flagship of public healthcare.
• An alleyway in Barcelona`s Gothic Quarter
• Nearest metro: Hospital de Sant Pau

Museo Egipci de Barcelona

A distinguished private collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. The displays are beautifully arranged over three floors. On the ground floor you’ll find sarcophagi, beautifully inscribed coffin kids, mummies, and various funeral belongings, from amulets to bead and coral adornments. The basement focuses on the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb – numerous photos of the excavation process, fine gold jewelry and signet rings found within the tomb itself, a model of the actual tomb and an assortment of mummified animals. Take the stairs up to the first floor to examine the well-preserved fragments of burial papyruses, funerary stelae and a showcase brimming with ushabti (small figures interred with a person in order to carry out any work in the afterlife that the deceased person was expected to do). There’s a pleasant terrace cafe upstairs, and the museum organizes engaging activities for children.
• Carrer de València, 284
• Nearest metro: Passeig de Gràcia

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC)

The Museum of Catalan Art, located within the grand Palau Nacional palace on Montjuïc Hill, displays one thousand years of Catalan artistic achievement. One wing holds relics of frescoes and religious imagery from Romanesque era churches between the 11th-13th centuries CE, reconstructed within simulated architectural contexts. Another presents 14th century wooden panels portraying saints` lives and royal portraits, revealing Italian and Flemish stylings. Renaissance works encompass lovely local landscapes and devotional scenes by Zurbarán plus lesser known creations by masters like Velázquez, Goya, Rubens, Tintoretto and El Greco. Ride the transparent elevator to the unrivaled collection of Catalan modernism, particularly the Modernista and Noucentista movements. Highlights include Gaudí`s interior designs, early 20th century paintings by Catalan painters Ramon Casas and Santiago Rusiñol who motivated Picasso, Salvador Dalí`s fatherly portrait, Picasso`s feminine portraits, Civil War graphic pieces and avant-garde sculpture.
• Parc de Montjuïc
• Nearest metro: Espanya

Font Màgica

An entertaining evening display of sound and lighting can be seen in Barcelona. In 1929, the city hosted the World Expo in the grand fairgrounds at the base of Montjuïc mountain. A long footpath called the Plaça d’Espanya leads towards the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, passing the Font Màgica (Magic Fountain) halfway. On weekend evenings, the fountain becomes the center of a colorful and musical extravaganza. The waters change hue and rise and fall along with music by Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballé, while street performers populate the area. The free shows last around 20 minutes and start every half hour between 9pm-11pm on Thursdays to Sundays from May to September, and Fridays to Saturdays from 7pm-8.30pm for the rest of the year. Particularly enjoyable on warm spring and summer evenings, they are popular with families.
• A square in Barcelona`s Gothic Quarter
• Nearest metro: Espanya

Parc de la Ciutadella

Barcelona’s largest recreational area and zoological garden. If you want a respite from the downtown hustle and excitement, Citadel Park makes for a pleasant escape. There are wide pathways filled with locals strolling and street performers blowing enormous bubbles, in addition to several noteworthy structures, such as the Catalan Parliament building located centrally in the park. In the northwest corner stands the Castell dels Tres Dragons, an impressively designed, castle-like modernist architecture by Catalan architect Lluís Domènch i Montaner. Head to the park’s northeast corner to view the Baroque fountain conceptualized by Josep Fontseré i Mestrès, helped by a youthful Antoni Gaudí. The southern part of the park is occupied by the city zoo, Parc Zoològic. It’s hugely beloved by families. There`s a petting zoo, pony rides, and animals from throughout the world, counting the endangered Iberian wolf and the Sumatran tiger.
• Passeig de Picasso, 21
• Nearest metro station: Arc de Triomf, Ciutadella/Vila Olímpica

Aeri del Port Cable Car

For a magnificent panorama of Barcelona`s harbor and a leisurely, picturesque journey to Montjuïc, take a stroll along the Barceloneta peninsula and ride this historic cable car. The telefèric is part of Barcelona’s legacy from the 1929 World Expo and an thrilling, vertigo-inducing trip. The elevator transports you to the boarding platform and the cable car soars above the yachts congregated in the Barceloneta harbor. You gain a superb bird`s-eye perspective of La Rambla too, with the pointy turrets of La Sagrada Familia visible in the distance, just before the cable car softly docks at the Miramar viewpoint park, about a third of the way up Montjuïc. From here, it`s an easy walk to Montjuïc`s museums and other attractions. Try going on a weekday, or as early as possible on the weekend, as lines can be lengthy.
• s/n, Avinguda Miramar
• Nearest metro: Barceloneta, Paral.lel

L’Aquarium Barcelona

With families as a very popular target audience, this cutting-edge aquarium exhibits diverse marine ecosystems globally: the shallow coastal waters surrounding the Mediterranean, Caribbean Sea, Great Barrier Reef, and Red Sea. There are also informative displays about Spain`s unique ecosystems: Catalonia`s Delta del Ebro and the Medes Islands archipelago, complete with indigenous fish and additional marine life. Highlights range from navigating the shark tunnel to observing clownfish within anemone homes, seahorses, and the octopus holding area. See if you can spot the well-camouflaged and poisonous stonefish amidst toxic fish. Within the Planeta Aqua section visitors can view penguins, piranhas native to the Amazon, and Latin American basilisk lizards. Numerous experiences are on offer, too, from daily sustainments (sharks, penguins, rays, moray eels; check schedule online) – especially fun for children, to cage diving alongside sharks. Barcelona`s aquarium sits along the waterfront in Port Vell just south of the Ramblas. Try coming on a weekday to avoid crowded weekends.
• The harbor of Barcelona
• Nearest metro: Drassanes

Steel Donkey Bike Tour

With over 200 km of bike paths, generally dry and warm climate, and a variety of fascinating neighborhoods to discover beyond the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona is ideal for exploring by bicycle. You can rent wheels from any of numerous shops downtown if preferring independence, but it’s fun letting a knowledgeable local show hidden treasures. Guides at Steel Donkey Bike Tours take off the beaten path, avoiding crowded mainstream sights. They keep the itinerary flexible, usually including picturesque squares, narrow alleys full of boutique stores and rowdy histories, the Encants flea market, and modern architecture and street art in the resurgent Poblenou district. There’s a maximum of eight people per group, so the experience feels personal. Two highlights include stopping for local snacks and drinks, such a refreshing glass of orxata, and riding back to the bike shop via the vibrant city beaches.
• Nearest metro: Liceu, Jaume I

Frederic Mares Museum

Frederic Mares i Deulovol was an explorer from the 20th century who had a passion for collecting art, and his personal assortment fills four levels of this prior royal residence of the Inquisition close to the Gothic Cathedral. The exhibition is separated into three amassings. The firstly is The Sculpture Collection, which extends over two levels and principally highlights mostly medieval religious symbolism, as well some petite but priceless fragments chronicling Spain’s Roman heritage. The Collector’s Cabinet is a rich collection of 19th and early 20th paraphernalia that incorporates swords, crossbows, helmets, walking canes, cigarette holders, pipes, playing cards, matchstick boxes, postage stamps and spectacles. Ultimately, the Frederic Mares Library-Study incorporates the collector’s really favorite pieces and several of his personal possessions. An extra benefit of making a detour to this excellent little exhibition is stopping by the delightful Le Club D’Estiu afterwards. It is built into the old medieval city walls and sits adjacent to a serene courtyard with palm trees and fountain.
• Plaça Sant Iu, 5
• Nearest metro: Jaume I

Bunkers del Carmel

Constructed during the Spanish Civil War in 1937, these hilly bunkers were intended as an anti-aircraft battery to defend against aerial assaults by fascist troops. Later, in the 50s and 60s, they became the center of a shanty town housing around 7% of the city`s population, before finally the area was cleared for the 1992 Olympic Games and then forgotten. Recently, however, these crumbling concrete fortifications have become a daily meeting point for those wanting to watch the sun descend over all of Barcelona, while enjoying a picnic and some beers. Reaching there can be rather tricky, especially since most taxi drivers won’t know the best route, though the smartest thing is taking a taxi to Restaurante Las Delicias in Carmel (address is Carrer Muhlberg 1). From there you can readily follow the path up to the vantage point and enjoy the spectacular 360o views.
• A street in Barcelona`s Gothic Quarter
• How to get there: Best to take a taxi

Shopping

There is something attractive for everyone in one of the most fashionable cities in the world. Barcelona offers everything, from modern artwork and cutting-edge trends to high street clothing, traditional crafts and skills, antiques, gourmet food, and souvenirs. Gift shops located at major art museums are excellent places to choose prints and other memorabilia by renowned artists like Picasso, Miró, Dalí, and others. Stores and markets are scattered all across the city; here are some of my favorites. Barri Gòtic: Papirum sells uniquely designed paper products, fountain pens, leather notebooks and more. Art Escudellers stocks beautiful decorative glass items, handcrafted jewelry, ceramic figures, and tile artwork. Iriarte Iriarte showcases handmade leather bags and accessories, while Artesanía Catalunya is the place to find beautiful handcrafted items by Catalan artisans, such as jewelry, ceramics, accessories, and leather goods. L’Eixample: Antonio Miró sells suits, accessories and household design items by one of Barcelona’s hottest designers, while the Desigual flagship store on Plaça Catalunya is three floors of colorful fashion by Barcelona’s renowned international label. Passeig de Gràcia is lined with popular fashion stores, such as Mango and Zara. El Born: Carrer dels Flassaders, Carrer del Rec and Carrer dels Banys Vells are thin side lanes lined with funky, arty boutiques.
• Closest metro: Liceu for Barri Gòtic, Passeig de Gràcia for L’Eixample and Jaumi I for El Born

PortAventura World Park

This theme park situated on Spain`s Costa Dorada coast an hour`s drive south of Barcelona contains six different themed zones: Wild West, China, Mexico, Sésamoaventura, Polynesia and Mediterranean. Gentler rides for younger visitors include the carousel at Wild West, canoes at Polynesia, spinning teacups in China and the maze El Secreto de los Mayas in Mexico. Thrill-seeking attractions for older children and adults include the horizontal catapult Furius Baco and 100m freefall Huracan Condor in Mediterranean, as well as the looping Dragon Khan rollercoaster in China. Water-based adventures incorporating the tropical themes include the splash ride Tutuki Splash, log flume Silver River and whitewater rafting Grand Canyon Rapids, perfect for beating the heat. Around two dozen restaurants and snack bars are scattered throughout, plus parades and shows entertain younger kids. Family discounts available online

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Montserrat Monastery

This prominent mountain church has served as an important spiritual site for pilgrims visiting Spain for over one thousand years. Devotees travel to pray before “La Moreneta” (The Black Virgin), found safeguarded behind glass inside the monastery`s principal chapel area. Carbon dating shows the carving is at least eight centuries old, as tradition tells it was crafted by St Luke, brought to Spain by St Peter, then hidden in one of the hills to shield it from Moorish invasions. The Ave Maria route leading up to the chapel is lined with candles left as offerings and believers leave behind personal possessions as votive tributes to the Virgin: replicas of body sections, baby baptism outfits, model vehicles, and more. The Museu de Montserrat, attached to the active monastery, has an exceptional assortment of Byzantine icons and paintings from renowned historical artists and Catalan modernists among others. A network of marked nature trails spreads over the rugged surrounding mountains, allowing wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. Two funiculars carry you partway up. At the monastery there`s a hotel and a couple dining areas, or take a guided day trip that includes a scenic lunch • Location
• The way to arrive is by taking the FGC train from Plaça de Espanya metro station to Montserrat Aeri and then the cable car up to the monastery. Alternatively, disembark at Monistrol de Montserrat, the stop after Montserrat Aeri, and travel on the Cremallera de Montserrat (mountain railway). It takes approximately 1 1/2 hours to reach Montserrat from Barcelona.

Sitges

One of Catalunya’s most popular coastal destinations. Boasting a string of white sandy beaches, a day trip to the seaside town of Sitges can easily be accomplished. Wandering through the Old Town`s maze of narrow alleyways, whitewashed buildings, boutiques and cafes is a true pleasure, particularly outside the peak months of June through September when large crowds frequent the beaches to enjoy the sun. In the center of town atop a headland outcrop is the beautiful and whitewashed Sant Bartolomenu i Santa Tecla church. Sitges’ beaches are separated by breakwaters and readily accessible via the lengthy boardwalk extending along their length. The most central beaches, with their calm waters and seaside restaurants tend to be especially popular with families; nude beaches welcoming to all orientations can be discovered in the secluded coves east of the headland. Kayaking and snorkeling tours are offered, including transportation from Barcelona. Carnival in February/March provides an excellent time to visit, as do August and September, when teams compete to construct the largest human pyramid during the festivals of Sant Bartolomeu and Santa Tecla.
• Location • How to get there: take one of the regular Rodalies trains on the R2 line either from Barcelona Sants or Passeig de Gràcia towards Sant Vincenç de Calders and alight at Sigtes (40 minutes).

Girona

This is a stunning medieval city. Split down the middle by the Onyar river, the ancient walled city of Girona lies 100km northeast of Barcelona. Founded in 76 BC, it`s had periods of governance under Romans, Visigoths, Moors, and the Spanish crown throughout its long history, once housing one of Spain`s most thriving Jewish communities. Historic Girona is very compact and all the main attractions are close together, tucked away within a maze of narrow streets. Dominating the Old Town is the immense Gothic cathedral, with its tremendous nave vault and beautifully decorated Romanesque cloisters. A short distance away is the best-preserved Jewish quarter in western Europe; the cultural and social life of Girona`s Jewish community is immortalized in the excellent Museu d’Historia dels Jueus. Girona’s Moorish influence can be seen in the beautifully preserved ancient baths – the Banys Arabs. Take a stroll along the main section of the city wall for a great view of Girona’s rooftops and cathedral.
• Location
• How to get there: Travelers can take a train from Barcelona Sants or Passeig de Gràcia that arrives in Girona within 40 minutes for high-speed services that run once per hour, or slower trains that require up to one and three-quarter hours. An alternative is a guided excursion from Barcelona, which includes hotel pick-up