30 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

Imagine a city where Gothic charm meets beach bliss, where world-class art flirts with street murals, and where food is not just a meal but an experience. That’s Barcelona, a Catalan wonderland bursting with colour, history, music, and unforgettable flavours. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another magical getaway, this buzzing city promises a full itinerary of joy.

Before you jet off to tick off the best things to do in Barcelona, don’t forget to secure your travel insurance from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company. A reliable international travel insurance policy ensures your Spanish holiday remains stress-free, so you can focus on sipping sangria, snapping Gaudí’s masterpieces, and getting delightfully lost in the Gothic Quarter.

Here’s our handpicked guide to the must-do things in Barcelona that blend tourist highlights with hidden gems.

Things to Do in Barcelona

1. Marvel at the Sagrada Família

No list of Barcelona places to visit is complete without Gaudí’s magnum opus. This iconic basilica, still under construction, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a mind-blowing example of Catalan modernist architecture.

2. Get a Taste of Time Out Market Barcelona

Looking for authentic Catalan food under one roof? Head to Time Out Market at Port Vell. With 14 curated eateries and 4 bars, this food haven offers everything from paella to gourmet tacos, all with a terrace view.

3. Explore Park Güell

One of the best places to visit in Barcelona, this colourful hilltop park is another Gaudí masterpiece filled with mosaic art, quirky structures, and panoramic city views.

4. Wander the Gothic Quarter

Get lost in the labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, where every corner holds secrets, from Roman walls to medieval churches.

5. Take in the View at Mirador del Migdia

Tucked behind Montjuïc Castle, this peaceful park offers a scenic escape with views of the Mediterranean and the bustling Port of Barcelona.

6. Visit Fundació Joan Miró

Art lovers shouldn’t miss this contemporary art museum celebrating the legacy of Barcelona-born artist Joan Miró, especially during its 50th-anniversary programme in 2025.

7. Go Underground in Roman Barcino

Discover ancient ruins beneath Plaça del Rei and walk the former Roman streets that shaped the modern city.

8. Enjoy Tapas at Rosalía’s Favourite Spot

Celebrity-approved El Pollo in Sant Antoni serves one of the best tortillas in town—don’t miss the croquettes and squid either.

9. Lose Yourself in Parc del Laberint d’Horta

The city’s oldest garden offers a cypress maze, Romantic landscaping, and serene picnic spots away from the crowds.

10. Admire Urban Art in Poblenou

For a splash of creativity, stroll along Carrer Marroc and other streets in Poblenou to admire the ever-changing canvas of Barcelona’s graffiti scene.

11. Cool Off with Artistic Ice Cream

From spaceship-themed parlours to city-inspired flavours, Barcelona takes its ice cream seriously. Don’t miss Badiani’s 'Barcelona' flavour that looks like the Catalan flag.

12. See the City from the Port Cable Car

Glide 70 metres above ground from Barceloneta to Montjuïc in a red cable car for unmatched aerial views.

13. Visit the Picasso Museum

Home to over 4,000 works, this museum traces Picasso’s artistic evolution. Visit early or book tickets online to avoid the queues.

14. Discover Hidden Churches like Santa Anna

Just steps from Plaça de Catalunya, this Romanesque church offers quiet cloisters and sacred history, perfect for introspection.

15. Shop Books at Stunning Libraries

Barcelona is dotted with bookshops and libraries like Finestres and the world-renowned García Márquez Library in Poblenou.

16. Sip Cocktails at Mariposa Negra

Run by a former Savoy bartender, this bar in El Born offers custom cocktails, house-made liqueurs, and literary charm.

17. Sample Traditional Catalan Dishes

Try escudella i carn d’olla at Ca l'Estevet or cod fritters at 7 Portes. For a modern twist, book a table at Fonda Pepa or Maleducat.

18. Climb Torre Glòries

Head 125 metres up for 360-degree views of Barcelona’s skyline, plus an interactive art and science exhibit at the base.

19. Swim at Parc de la Creueta del Coll

In summer, this Gracia park becomes a public swimming spot complete with ping pong tables and a famous Chillida sculpture.

20. Hunt Vinyl in El Raval

Crate diggers, rejoice. Shops like Discos Paradiso and Wha Wha Records offer everything from indie classics to rare grooves.

21. Smell the Roses at Parc de Cervantes

Home to over 10,000 rose bushes, this garden is the most fragrant spot in Barcelona, especially during the May rose competition.

22. Discover Cinematic Locations

From Killing Eve to Almodóvar films, Barcelona has starred in many screen productions. Casa Ramos in Gràcia is a highlight.

23. See Romanesque Art at MNAC

Barcelona’s national art museum boasts Europe’s best Romanesque collection and unforgettable views from its Montjuïc perch.

24. Relax in the Umbracle

An iron-and-brick botanical haven filled with exotic plants—open weekday mornings for a peaceful break in Ciutadella Park.

25. Visit Sant Felip Neri

This quiet square in the Gothic Quarter tells a tragic story with bomb scars on the church wall from the Spanish Civil War.

26. Take a Tunnel Tour

From sewer walks to Civil War air raid shelters, Barcelona’s underground is filled with fascinating secrets.

27. Try Patatas Bravas at Bar Tomás

In Sarrià, this legendary bar is often dubbed the home of the best patatas bravas in Barcelona. Worth the queue.

28. Discover Horta and L’Eivissenca

Escape the tourist trail with a refreshing granizado de pomada and peaceful strolls in this charming neighbourhood.

29. Visit Santa Maria del Mar

This Catalan Gothic gem is beloved for its architectural symmetry and spiritual energy. Visit during Christmas for a moving mass.

30. Gaze from Torre Urquinaona

Unlimited Barcelona offers an audio-guided viewpoint that brings the city’s stories alive with every sweeping glance.

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Spain- Weather, Climate, Temperature

Before You Go: Protect Your Barcelona Experience

As thrilling as these best things to do in Barcelona are, travel doesn’t always go as planned. That’s why a reliable travel insurance plan from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company is your best companion. Whether it’s a medical emergency, a stolen passport, or a flight delay, international insurance travel coverage ensures you can explore worry-free.

So, book those museum tickets, find your new favourite tapas bar, and get ready for a magical Catalan adventure—Barcelona is calling, and it’s time to answer.

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