What to see in Barcelona on a weekend?
Visiting Barcelona on a weekend is entering a world of history, culture and vibrant urban life. From the iconic architectural monuments to the secret corners full of charm, the Catalan capital offers an unforgettable experience for all types of travelers.
Are you ready to discover the treasures this city has to offer? Join us on this tour of Barcelona’s must-sees with This is Med !
Day 1: Discover the essence of the city
Start your first day in Barcelona with a visit to Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpiece: the Sagrada Familia. This majestic temple, still under construction after more than a century, will take your breath away with its impressive façade and dreamlike interior . Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines and make the most of your time. After marveling at the Sagrada Familia, head to nearby Park Güell, another of Gaudí’s iconic projects.
Stroll along its colorful paths, admire the peculiar sculptures and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from one of the most famous balconies in the world. Also remember to reserve your ticket, which has a date and time! For lunch, experience authentic Catalan cuisine at one of the many local restaurants . Try typical dishes such as paella, Galician-style octopus or tapas, accompanied by a good Spanish wine.
We advise you to stay away from the tourist area of La Rambla, and look for a typical bar or restaurant, in Raval or Poble Nou. In the afternoon, let yourself be carried away by the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, the historic heart of Barcelona. Explore its charming squares, such as Plaza Real, Plaza del Rey or Plaza de San Felipe Neri, and admire the imposing Barcelona Cathedral, a jewel of Catalan Gothic. End your first day with a walk along Las Ramblas, the famous pedestrian avenue full of life and activity.
From street performers to flower and souvenir stalls, Las Ramblas is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere. Here, you will also find the colorful and bustling La Boquería market, where you can delight in a wide variety of fresh and local products. If you are looking for a similar, but more authentic, experience, we recommend visiting the Santa Caterina Market, where you can buy fresh fruits and enjoy “good, beautiful and cheap” food.
Day 2: get lost in “els carrers” and the squares of Barcelona
Start your second day in Barcelona with a visit to the emblematic Barrio de Gracia. This bohemian and multicultural neighborhood is full of vintage shops, charming cafes and street art. Don’t miss Plaza del Sol, the heart of Gracia, where you can enjoy an outdoor coffee while observing local life .
Afterwards, head towards Paseo de Gracia, one of the most elegant avenues in the city, famous for its luxurious boutiques and modernist buildings. Make a stop at Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, two Gaudí masterpieces that you cannot miss. For lunch, enjoy a delicious meal by the sea in Barceloneta, the coastal neighborhood par excellence.
Sample delicious seafood and fresh fish at one of the many seafront restaurants, while taking in the views of the Mediterranean.
Relax on Barcelona’s urban beach
In the afternoon, relax on Barceloneta beach and enjoy the sun and the sea. If you are looking for stronger emotions, you can try water sports such as paddle surfing or kitesurfing. If you have time, don’t miss a visit to Tibidabo, the oldest amusement park in Spain, located at the top of the mountain of the same name . From there, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and live exciting experiences at its attractions.
To close your weekend in Barcelona on a high note, watch the sunset from the Búnkers del Carmel viewpoint. From this former Civil War shelter, you will have incomparable panoramic views of the entire city.
Do you have time left?
Beyond the suggested itineraries, Barcelona offers much more for a weekend in the city. You can go to Plaza España and visit the arena-shaped shopping center and admire the Venetian towers that precede the imposing Montjuïc Castle or discover the fascinating history of the Raval neighborhood at the Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona (MACBA). Whether you are passionate about art, gastronomy, history or nature, Barcelona has something special for each of its visitors.
Come and discover why Barcelona makes everyone who visits fall in love with it!