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Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, bustling with beautiful architecture, and lively streets, Barcelona is a tourist destination like no other. The capital city of the Catalonian region in Spain has long been home to artists and thinkers and is reflected in the Barcelona tourist attractions, making it a must-visit when in the country. Whether it is Gaudí’s enchanting creations from the past, or the vibrant food and culture scene that keeps evolving each day, there are so many things to do in Barcelona that it’s hard to fit into one list but here are some that you just can’t miss on.
Here are the top 10 things to do in Barcelona you need to bookmark now
1. La Sagrada Família
One of the most iconic visuals in the city, La Sagrada Família is one of the places to visit in Barcelona that you just do without. The basilica has been in construction for the longest time since 1882, and while it was opened to the public in 2010, the construction is still ongoing. Combining Gothic and Art Noveau details, it was designed by the famed Catalonian architect Antoni Gaudí.
2. Museu d’Art Contemporani De Barcelona
Inaugurated in 1995, this museum in Barcelona is home to more than 1,600 paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art. It is famous for its impressive collection of work by Catalan artists like Klee, Barceló, Muntadas, Brossa, Calder, Basquiat and Ràfols Casamada, and how it has eventually shaped the arts in the region. It also regularly hosts other temporary exhibitions and a visit here makes for a strong contender for things to do in Barcelona.
3. Casa Batlló
Often compared to Claude Monet’s Water Lilies, thanks to the shards of coloured glass that cover the outer surface, Casa Batlló was commissioned by the textile industrialist Josep Batlló to the famed Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. One of the most stunning places to visit in Barcelona, this building shimmers, dazzles, and is sure to leave you spellbound.
4. Barceloneta
If you believe that all Barcelona attractions are heritage and architecture, think again. The most famous beach in the city, Barceloneta is basically a carnival. Whether it is to enjoy water sports, sunbathe, or relish the tapas sold on the beach, visiting Barceloneta is sure to be one of the top things to do in Barcelona.
5. Parc De La Ciutadella
Another of those Barcelona tourist attractions that’ll blow your mind, Parc De La Ciutadella is not your regular park. Home to the local zoo, and a regional parliament, Parc De La Ciutadella is idyllic and has enough for you to explore all day long. Whether you take a walk on the massive campus, marvel at the stunning waterfalls inside, or go for a boat ride, this park will be a great addition to things to do in Barcelona.
6. Montjüic Castle
This majestic fortress is another of Barcelona attractions that offer you a glimpse of the past. Constructed in 1640, this fortress stands tall on the Montjüic mountain and offers a 360-degree view of the whole area, making it strategically strong. It also has a sea-facing wall from where you can catch beautiful views of the Barcelona Port.
7. Parc del Laberint d'Horta
Another fun addition to the list of things to do in Barcelona, Parc del Laberint d'Horta is one of the finest examples of artistic gardening. With 9 hectares of landscaped gardens, this 55-hectare space also has corners with mythical figures hidden in corners for you to discover. It is also a great option for things to do in Barcelona if you’re into plants. The park houses many listed species of trees, waterfalls, and canals among other attractions.
8. Montjüic
Any Barcelona sightseeing is incomplete without visiting Montjüic, and you can easily spend an entire day exploring this beautiful hill. Home to museums, castles, and fountains, this hill can be easily accessed via a cable car, and is a perfect opportunity to picnic, making it one of the best places to visit in Barcelona.
9. Park Güell
Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí’s brilliance shines through in almost everything in Barcelona. His most admired creation however would be Park Guell. Home to one of Barcelona’s biggest attractions, the mosaic lizard, this grand park also has spiral towers in classic Gaudí fashion and pathways that are sure to make you fall in love with this vibrant city. An important thing to keep in mind while visiting Park Güell is that it has to be booked in advance, and you need to be present at your allotted time slot. Additionally, you can also visit the building Gaudí called home for 19 years, Casa Museu Gaudí, which is inside the park. It has to be booked separately, however.
10. Segway tour
While we all know about the general places to visit in Barcelona, and the generic things to do in Barcelona, if you are a Gaudí fan, and want something fun, this is it for you. This 2-and-a-half-hour tour that covers almost all famous Gaudí masterpieces, and then some more comes in multiple languages, and with a guide. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, and get ready to explore these stunning Barcelona tourist attractions, Segway style.
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