Local’s Guide to the 15 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

A Mediterranean city bustling with life and character, open plazas, and quirky architecture, Barcelona stands out as one of Europe’s top cities. Beyond its energy, visitors fall for Barcelona’s artistic expression and way of life; bringing many visitors back time and time again. If you’re heading to this fantastic city, here are the best things to do in Barcelona from a local’s perspective.

1. Sit by the fountain in Plaça Reial

Plaça Reial is arguably one of Barcelona’s most stunning squares. Its large rectangular shape, inviting palm trees, and excellent bars and restaurants already make it great, but it’s the fountain that stands out most. It’s a great spot to sit, have a snack, and take in life around you.

2. Take a boat ride in Parc de la Ciutadella

Tucked in a shady spot of Parc de la Ciutadella, take a ride on a rowing boat through a pond alongside ducks and turtles. It’s only €6 for a 30-minute boat ride.

Parc de la Ciutadella is also a great spot for a picnic or as a place to enjoy the life of the locals. You’ll see people doing yoga classes, practicing self-defense, hula hooping, playing guitar, and so much more.

3. Walk up Passeig de Gràcia

One of Barcelona’s classiest streets with wide sidewalks, designer shopping, and Gaudí buildings like Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, a walk up Passeig de Gràcia is one of the best things to do in Barcelona.

Shopping and stunning buildings, what more could you want?

4. Take ride on the cable car from Barceloneta to Montjuïc

Enjoy a uniquely scenic route from Barceloneta Beach to Montjuïc on an exciting cable car ride in Barcelona. Take in the Mediterranean, spot Sagrada Familia from afar, and arrive at the lovely hill of Montjuïc where you can spend the afternoon wandering around parks and soaking up more Barcelona views.

5. Take in the art scene

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most artistic cities with world-class exhibitions, museums, and galleries. Visit the stunning Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya or see an impressive exhibition at the CCCB, which has put on Stanley Kubrick, Disney Behind the Scenes, and Mars exhibitions in recent years.

6. Drink sangria or vermut in a sunny plaza

Add some delicious tapas and it makes for the perfect afternoon. The Spanish love their sangria and the Catalans love their vermut. Enjoy both on a trip to Barcelona!

Cool and refreshing, there’s nothing quite like sangria

7. Eat pinchos on Carrer de Blai

Love pinchos and tapas? Head to Carrer de Blai. Get pinchos from €1, outdoor seating, and plenty of drinks to go around.

Pinchos are small bar snacks enjoyable at any time

8. Take in the sunset at Bunkers

A favorite among both locals and tourists: catching the sunset at Bunkers del Carmel. Once a bunker, this spot offers exquisite 360-degree views of Barcelona and the mountain town of Sant Cugat. Pack some snacks and a bottle of wine to complete the experience.

9. Wake up for a morning sunrise on Barceloneta Beach

Early risers can take advantage of a peaceful morning in Barcelona and enjoy a picturesque sunrise of rhubarb and tangerine tones, rising over the sea.

10. Get lost in the Gothic Quarter

Another one of the best things to do in Barcelona is explore the Gothic Quarter. This historical neighborhood is full of hidden gems, unique cafes, mesmerizing architecture, and quaint old streets.

11. Admire the details of the Barcelona Cathedral

Also nestled in the Gothic Quarter, you’ll find the impressive Barcelona Cathedral standing tall and full of details. There’s often a vintage market and various activities going on in the plaza in front of it as well.

12. Stand in awe of Sagrada Familia

Probably Barcelona’s most popular attraction, Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia has been under construction since 1882 and it’s still not finished. But fear not, you can still enjoy the ever-advancing exterior views and even take a tour inside of this quirky masterpiece of a cathedral.

13. Hangout by MACBA

Locals and skaters love to flock to the plaza by MACBA, which is Barcelona’s modern art museum. Here you’ll find gatherings of all sorts and skaters doing tricks. There’s also a number of nice cafes and bars around the plaza like La Rubia and Casa Almirall.

14. Have a drink in Barcelona’s oldest bar

Visit the neighborhood of Raval and head to Barcelona’s oldest Bar Marsella. Not much has changed since Bar Marsella first opened in 1820. The style is traditional, you’ll see dusty bottles on the wall, and they still serve up absinthe as their most popular drink.

15. Catch an exciting live performance

Barcelona is full of art and creativity, so there’s no shortage of entertainment in the Catalan capital. Whether you want to head to a local English comedy show or catch an impressive flamenco or performance at the Gran Teatre de Liceu, you can enjoy a variety of live performances in this exciting city.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve enjoyed this taste of Barcelona. Remember, whenever you travel to be safe, ensure you are equipped for the circumstance, and most of all enjoy some of the best things to do in Barcelona.

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