10 Things You Must Do in Barcelona Spain

Planning to visit Barcelona, Spain and wondering what to see? Here are 10 family-friendly things you must do and see in the city.

Barcelona has some of the most unique architecture I’ve ever seen.  It’s a large city surrounded by mountains on one side and the sea on the other.  With any big city, there is a huge variety of things to do and see.  If you are visiting other cities in Spain, you may be interested in these posts.

Barcelona has a lot of tourists so I highly recommend that you purchase any tickets that you can in advance so that you do not have to wait in long queues or miss out on visiting a popular attraction.  With the city being so popular with foreigners there are also a large number of pick-pockets, so be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your valuables.  You may find this post helpful on ways to stay safe when traveling.

Below is a list of my top 10 things you must-do when you visit Barcelona! 

Sagrada Familia

The famous Sagrada Familia that has been under construction since 1882.  It is predicted that the cathedral will be completed in 2026.  Sagrada Familia is considered to be the crowning achievement of Antoni Gaudi. 

Casa Batllo

A Gaudi designed house, Casa Batllo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Gaudi’s greatest works.  The Art-Nouveau mansion is said to have no straight lines and all the details were created by Gaudi.  Be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.  

Park Guell

This park designed by Gaudi offers some of the best views of the city.  The park has a unique design and beautiful tilework.  You do have to pay to enter the popular spots in the park and I highly recommend that you purchase your tickets ahead of time to avoid the long lines.  

Barcelona Cathedral 

Take in the beautiful gothic cathedral, Barcelona Cathedral.  It is not only one of the most beautiful places to visit in Barcelona but it’s also the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona.  The cathedral took 132 years to be built and is almost 600 years old.   

 

Gothic Quarter

After visiting the Barcelona Cathedral, continue exploring the gothic quarter which is the center of the old city of Barcelona.  It is full of unique bars, iconic squares, boutique shops, and great restaurants.  This is one of the best neighborhoods to explore in Barcelona.

Eat Churros con Chocolate

Churros con Chocolate might be the best thing ever invented!  It’s a Spanish institution and makes it one of the best things to do in Barcelona.  These deep-fried elongated doughnuts are served straight out of the fryer and paired with a chocolate dipping sauce. 

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

The magic fountain show is a water, light and music show that is perfectly choreographed.  It’s a wonderful, FREE thing to do in the city. 

Museu Picasso

We did not visit the Museu Picasso, but it is definitely on my must-do list for my next visit.  The museum houses over 4000 of Picasso’s early pieces with many donated to the museum by Picasso himself.  Make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid the queues.

Eating Tapas

You can’t come to Barcelona and not try tapas. Tapas are small dishes of many delights anything from Serrano ham to paella.  

Palau de la Música Catalana