Barcelona is a charming city that offers something for everyone from delicious food, unique culture, important European history, world-class shopping, famous architecture, interesting museums, exciting nightlife, relaxing beaches, and so much more.  There is so much more to discover with every visit to Barcelona.  So, enjoy my ever-expanding Barcelona bucket list!

1. Cheer on Barça at Camp Nou 

Futbol Club Barcelona, known as Barcelona or Barça, is Barcelona’s professional football team.  Their home stadium is Camp Nou.  Camp Nou is Europe’s largest stadium with seating capacity of over 99,000!  If there isn’t a game going on, then you visit the museum and tour Camp Nou.  It is quite the experience!

2. Drink Sangria

This drink is so popular that some bars and pubs have it on tap (but, it is not nearly as good as the fresh, homemade kind).  I think Sangria should be a staple at every dinner!

3. Eat Tapas, Tapas, and more Tapas

One can never have too much tapas 😉

Recommendation: If you want to go on a Tapas Tour, I suggest taking the Barcelona Tapas Tour: Pica-Pica in Poble-Sec Walk by Context Travel.

4. Eat a Paella

Another famous Spanish dish, you should definitely try paella.  Paella is a rice-based dish usually filled with seafood.  A Spanish chef told me that paella should ONLY have seafood (no meat)!

5. Eat at Ciudad Condal Restaurant

Several blogs and a couple of locals recommended this restaurant, and it did not disappoint!  They have a delicious tapas menu and an amazing citrus/lemonade type beer.

Insider Tip: Fair warning, it is a VERY popular restaurant and the lines and wait time can be quite long.  So, either get there early or hover around the car, which is first come first serve!

6. Explore the Jewish Quarter

Nestled in the Barri Gothic area, The Jewish Quarter (also known as El Call) is a narrow and small but charming area.  Unfortunately, the Jews were expelled from Barcelona in 1492 where their artifacts, culture, and synagogue were lost and forgotten.  But, you can tour the once main synagogue.   Explore this area and imagine that over 4,000 Jews were once crammed in this little neighborhood.

Recommendation: If you are facinated with the Jewish history in Barcelona, take the Jewish Barcelona Tour by Context Travel.

7. Gaze at Gaudi

Antoni Gaudi was one interesting fellow!  An architect, artist, designer, and more, his one of a kind style influence the Modernista movement in Barcelona.  Gaudí’s work was inspired by architecture, nature, and religion.  His work can be found all over Barcelona, and his most famous works deserve their own bucket list points!  You can devote an entire day or more just gazing and exploring his work!

Recommendation: If you are gaga for Gaudi, take the Gaudi Architecture Tour in Barcelona: Gaudi in Context by Context Travel.

• 8. Casa Batllo

Originally designed as a residence, the Casa Batllo is now famous for its ornate, interesting, and unique interior and its dragon-inspired rooftop.  It is also located down the street from La Pedrera (see below) and on the Block of Discord (see #38).

• 9. La Pedrera

This house is an icon of Modernisme and one of Gaudi’s most famous works. While some people refer to this building as Casa Mila, it is better known as La Pedrera (The Quarry) because of its rocky facade.  It is also considered as the purest Gaudi interior in town, so It is worth to spend a couple hours exploring La Perdrera.

• 10. Park Guell

Originally designed as an upscale housing development, Park Guell (pronounced like gway) is now a park filled with some of Barcelona and Gaudi’s most famous and iconic symbols from the tiled, wavy bench on a panoramic view terrace to the colorful dragon to the whimsical staircase.  Although most of Park Guell is free, you will need to buy a ticket (it is a timed entry – so pay attention!) to explore the Monumental Zone, which is filled with all the famous Gaudi work.  Park Guell is a great place to get away from the busy city and enjoy a quiet morning.

Insider Tip: Reserve your timed tickets in advance.  It can get very, very busy, so try to get an entry-time before 9:00am.   Also, it is located on a steep hill, so it is worth getting a taxi to take you there!

• 11. Sagrada Familia

Located in Eixample, the Sagrada Familia is Gaudi’s grand masterpiece and an icon of Barcelona.  In fact, the Sagrada Familia is not even finished yet.  Only one section of the facade was finished when Gaudi died in 1926.  Although inspired by Gaudi’s vision, other artists used their artistic freedom to design the rest of the church.  You can see the two different styles in the facade — Gaudi designed the Nativity Facade while Josep Maria Subirachs designed the Passion Facade (completed in 2005).  The goal is to finish the Sagrada Familia by June 2026, 100 years after Gaudi’s death.  Meanwhile, the interior of the church is a whimsical, rainforest inspired work of art.  Words cannot do this grand, creative, bold, interesting, breathtaking church justice.  It is worth spending a lot of time admiring and touring this amazing church.

Insider Tip: Go on a proper tour (with a tourguide) of the Sagrada Familia.  It can be a tad overwhelming, since there is so much to see!  A really good tourguide can point out things you would never have noticed all while giving you the ineteresting backgound of the church.

Recommendation: For the proper tour of the Sagrada Familia, I recommend taking the Sagrada Familia Tour in Barcelona by Context Travel.

12. Go to the Barcelona Cathedral

The Barcelona Cathedral is the complete opposite of the Sagrada Familia with its 14th-century Gothic design and a 19th-century Neo-Gathic facade.  This has been the location for the once Roman Temple of Jupiter and then later the center of Christian worship since the 4th century.  Also, pay a visit to the cloister and see the beautiful courtyard complete with 13 geese!

13. Get Lost in El Born

El Born is a charming, artsy, lively neighborhood located in the old city. Start on the Passeig del Born and get lost down the narrow lanes while discovering charming shops, delicious restaurants, and a fun nightlife.

14. Go on a Day Trip

There are many places to go on a day trip from Barcelona.  A trip to the famous mountaintop monastery of Montserrat is a very popular and lovely day trip. Or, you could head to the beach town of Sitges.  For a day rich in culture and Roman history, head 1.5 hours by train to Tarragona.  For art-lovers, head to Figueres, home of the Dali Theater-Museum.  There are so many options for a fabulous day trip from Barcelona!

Recommendation: If you want to venture to Girona, only 30 minutes via high train from Barcelona, take the Girona Day Trip from Barcelona with Context Travel.

15. Have a Glass of Cava

Cava aka Spanish Sparkling Wine is delicious!  Order a glass of Cava and enjoy being in one of the most wonderful cities!

16. Hunt for the Roman Ruins

Barri Gothic or the Gothic Quarter is Barcelona’s birthplace.  The Romans built their city, Barcino, here around15 BC.  WOW!  There are Roman Ruins still located in Barri Gothic, but you have to know where to look!  I took an AMAZING 3-hour tour (see recommendation below) of the Gothic Quarter and we just scratched the surface of all the amazing history and information about the Roman times here in Barcelona.  So, be on the lookout for the Roman Ruins (a few deserved their own Bucket List points)!

Recommendation: I recommend going on the Introduction to Barcelona: Gothic Quarter by Context Travel on your very first day in Barcelona.  You will get all the history of the city, hit the major sites in the Gothic Quarter, and get some awesome recommendations!

• 17. Placa Nova

Located in the heart of Barri Gothic, Placa Nova is the location of two huge Roman towers.  These once were the entrance gate of the ancient Roman city of Barcino. Near the base of the towers, you will see modern bronze letters spell out BARCINO — the perfect Instagram-worthy spot!  On one of the towers, there is a reconstructed Roman aqueduct.

• 18. Roman Temple of Augustus

Located inside a building, four columns and some fragments are all that is left of the Roman’s grand Roman Temple of Augustus. These columns are from the late first century BC!

• 19. Barcelona History Museum

You can walk through the excavated Roman ruins in the Barcelona History Museum.  There is even more than just Roman ruins here — you can walk through the history of Barcelona!  The archaeological route leads you through the streets of Roman Barcino through parts of the seventh-century Christian Church to the 11th-century Middle Ages exhibit.  That is a lot of history!

• 20. Roman Necropolis

The Roman Necropolis is located right off Las Ramblas. In Roman times, tombs lined the roads leading into town.  You can look down at the ruins and imagine Roman life 2,000 years ago!

21. Have a Cafe at the Charming Placa Reial

Located right off Las Ramblas, Placa Reial is a charming square surrounded by elegant yellow buildings with palm trees (and Gaudi lampposts).  Have a cafe in this area and enjoy the colonial ambiance.

22. Have Fun on the Waterfront

Barcelona’s inviting beaches are a huge draw to this wonderful city!  There are so many things to do by the water from exploring the area, to strolling down the boardwalks, to sunbathing, to enjoying time at the beach!

• 23. Sunbathe on the Meditteranean

While you are in Barcelona, enjoy being on the Mediterranean and the beach!

• 24. Take a Boat Ride

Personally, I love the water and I love boats!  For one afternoon or early evening go out on a boat and enjoy being in the Meditteranean!

• 25. Visit Barcelona’s Beaches

There are many unique and distinct beach segments that makeup Barcelona’s Beaches.  First, there is Sant Sebastia, which is located next to the port.  Second, there is La Barceloneta, which may get crowded but are filled with beach bars and seafood restaurants.  It is the city’s biggest and most traditional beach. Third, there is Nova Icaria, which has the most services and a lot of leisure options.  It is also very popular with families. Also, there is Mar Bella.   Beware — this is a clothing optional beach!   There are many other beaches to choose from as well!

• 26. Walk Down Rambla del Mar

La Rambla del Mar is a modern extension of the Ramblas.  This wooden pedestrian bridge leads to an entertainment and shopping areas.

27. Let Your Inner Child Out at the Tibidabo

Tibidabo is an old amusement park with amazing views that overlook the entire city!  Enjoy a short ride on the funicular and have fun at the amusement park or just enjoy the views of Barcelona!

28. Learn a Couple Catalan Phrases

You are in the region of Catalunya, which has its own culture, history, and, yes, language!  Majority of locals speak Catalan.  In fact, schools are required by law to teach in Catalan.  So, learn a Catalan couple phrases while you are in the region!  Gracies!

29. Listen to Music (or Tour) the Palace of Catalan Music

The Palace of Catalan Music is a UNESCO world heritage site and has a beautiful Modernista interior. You must have advanced reservations to tour this concert hall.  Or, if you are lucky enough, go when there is a concert or musical performance!

30. PARTY

Barcelona is known for its amazing nightlife and party scene. There are a lot of fun and exciting clubs… I personally did not explore the club scene, so, please let me know if you have any recommendations!

31. Peruse the Markets

There are several markets to visit while you are in Barcelona!  La Boqueria Market and Santa Caterina Market are two popular food markets.  La Boqueria Market is filled with all different types of food stands.  Visit here for a delightful lunch!   Santa Caterina Market is a Gaudi-inspired market hall.  Enjoy a beer outside and soak up being in El Born!

Recommendation: If you are a foodie, take the Savoring Barcelona Food Tour by Context Travel, where you will spend a lot of time exploring and eating your way through La Boqueria Market!

32. People Watch at the Placa de Catalunya

Placa de Catalunya is Barcelona’s center.  It is the hub for the Metro, links the old city of Barcelona to the newer area of Eixample, and the start of Las Ramblas.  It is usually filled with people, locals and tourists alike, and a great place to just people watch!

33. Relax at Parc de la Ciutadella

Parc de la Ciutadella is Barcelona’s biggest park and originally the site of a military citadel.  You will find a lot of trees and grass, a zoo, an ornamental fountain (helped designed by a young Gaudi), museums, a small lake (where you can rent a boat), and so much more!  It is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy an afternoon!

34. See the Arc de Triomf

The Arc de Triomf was designed as the main gate for the 1888 Barcelona world fair.  It is a perfect spot for an Instagram picture.  Then, stroll down to the Parc de la Ciutadella (see above).

35. Say Hello to Columbus

The Columbus Monument is located at the end of Las Ramblas and right on the waterfront.  The base of the monument is loaded with symbolism of exploration and Columbus’ voyages to America.  Additionally, you can take a tiny elevator to the top of the monument!

36. Stroll Around the Barri Gotic

As stated earlier, Barri Gothic (the Gothic Quarter) is Barcelona’s birthplace.  This area is packed with shops, bars, nightlife, museums, churches, and a lot of history!  You will want to spend a lot of time strolling around this charming and interesting area!

37. See the Placa Sant Felip Neri

This shaded square is filled with sad history from the Spanish Civil War.  In fact, the Church of Sant Felip Neri still has bomb damage and shrapnel.   Although this square now serves as a playground for an elementary school, this was also where 42 people (mostly children) were killed in the 1938 aerial bombardment.

Recommendation: If you want to learn more about the Spanish Civil War, take the Spanish Civil War Tour in Barcelona: Homage to Catalonia by Context Travel.

38. See the Block of Discord

Three colorful Modernista buildings are located on the Block of Discord: Casa Batllo, Casa Amatller, and Casa Lleo Morera.  The locals named this block “the Block of Discord” due to the creative, colorful, and interesting Modernista facades!

39. Spend Time in Montjuic

Montjuic or “Mount of the Jews” is a massive hill located at the foot of the Meditteranean with commanding views of Barcelona.  Montjuic hosted the 1929 International Exposition and now is home to a lot of attractions and must-sees!

Recommendation: For an in-depth explortaion of Montjuic, I recommend to take the Barcelona Montjuic Tour by Context Travel.

• 40. Go Shopping in Las Arenas Mall

Las Arenas use to be the main arena for bullfights from 1900 to the 1970’s.  In 2011, it was reopened as a mall.

• 41. Ride the Cable Car

For a scenic ride up to the top of Montjuic, you can take the cable car from the Barcelona pier.  Enjoy the views of Barcelona from the cable car!

• 42. See the Placa d’Espanya

Placa d’Espanya is at the located at the base of Montjuic.  It is a pretty cool place!

• 43. Visit the Catalan Art Museum

The Catalan Art Museum showcases Catalan art as well as Romanesque frescos.  The building itself is beautiful and grand with magnificent views of Barcelona.

• 44. Watch the Magic Fountain Show

The Magic Fountain Show is a spectacular choreographed water, music, and light show.  It is popular with tourists and locals alike so get here early to claim a spot!

45. Take in the View of Barcelona from the Bunkers

The Bunkers of Carmel has some of the best views of Barcelona!  It may be a little out of the way and a good uphill walk for about 25-30 minutes, but the views are spectacular!

46. Take a Picture of Carrer del Bisbe Bridge

The Carrer del Bisbe Bridge is reminiscent of Venice’s Bridge of Sighs.  It looks very medieval (although it was built in the 1920’s) and the perfect place to snap a picture! 🙂

47. Visit the Museu Picasso

Pablo Picasso lived in Barcelona from the age 14 through 23. The Picasso Museum is located in the El Born area and is filled with a lot of his works, including the majority of his works from his early years.

Recommendation: If you are an art lover, a Picasso fan, or just want to learn more about Picasso and his art, take the Barcelona Picasso Tour by Context Travel.

48. Walk down Las Ramblas

Starting from Placa de Catalunya to the waterfront, Las Ramblas is Barcelona’s main boulevard.  Although now it is filled with tourists and tourists shops, it is still worth to walk down Las Ramblas.  Make sure you find the heart of the Ramblas in Placa de la Boqueria, which has the famous mosaic by Joan Miro.

49. Walk around Eixample 

Eixample is Barcelona’s “new town” and filled with Modernista buildings, wide sidewalks, and a grided city plan.  Additionally, Eixample is home to some of the top-end and fancy shops, including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, etc.

50. Watch the Sunset from the W Hotel

W Hotel is one of the most luxurious and popular hotels in Barcelona, located right on the beach.   On the 26th floor, there is the Eclipse Bar & Night Club, which offers beautiful views of Barcelona.  So, go up to the bar, order a cocktail, and enjoy watching the sunset!

If you want to stay here, book with me!  I can get you these extra wonderful Virtuoso amenities (for 2018):