Back in the city where my love for Spain all began. Here's a guide on what to do while in Barcelona for a short period of time!
Barcelona, Spain.
Oh Barcelona, where to start? If it's your first time or you're a returning visitor, something about this city just entices tourism here. There's so much to do that it can accommodate anyone's itinerary whatever your interests are. From the amazing food, jaw dropping architecture, night life, beautiful beaches, and city life- you will wan to extend your trip or come back soon like I did!
Leaving Zaragoza and heading to Barcelona, I was so excited to return to this city where my love for Spain started back in 2015. I have a blog post that has more suggestions on what to do in Barcelona (click here) to read more! We arrived in the afternoon and dropped off our stuff at the hotel. We started to get ready for dinner and a night out on the town. The following day we had a free full day and met up with the group at night to do one of the optionals of this trip which was to go to a flamenco dinner show. I'm so happy I got to re-visit this city for the second time and experience some things twice but also see new parts of the city I didn't see before. Here are some recommendations on what to do when visiting Barcelona!
Parc Güell is one of the top visited attractions in Barcelona. This historic park has spectacular views that overlooks the city of Barcelona. I would say space out time to see this park and don't rush going through it because there's so much to see and beauty everywhere. You'll hear beautiful music being played by musicians, see hidden gems while walking around, and oversee the city in many spots that will leave you in awe! It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site which makes it another reason to stop by and stroll around.
When I came here my first time, it was around sunset hour which is always super full and since I was so into the moment I never actually took photos of myself there. I only took photos of the place and was a little rushed just because we were on a time crunch. This time around on my free day I went early in the morning. I highly recommend buying your tickets online especially during high season summers because certain times sell out quickly. They will not let you enter if you don't have a ticket during that specific time slot. It was pretty busy around 11 am but I was finally able to get photos at the infamous Parc Guell. It's crazy how things are always changing and being renovated here in Barcelona but at the same time felt so nostalgic being here again. You can never get tired of this place no matter how many times you visit!
Palau de la Musica Catalana.
This is a place I recommend visiting! I actually didn't know about this place when I first visited Spain but happen to come across a picture I saw on Instagram during my second visit and was very intrigued. After Parc Guell we took a cab ride to Palau de la Musica Catalana and realized you needed to get tickets to enter and join a tour. There's no self guided tours available and these tours are done both in english/spanish at specific times and it takes about an hour. Palau de la Musica Catalana is a concert hall with amazing design that will leave you speechless.
It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, and this space welcomes half a million concert goers every year and many international artist performers from many musical genres. During the tour, you first watch a short film then proceed to see the rehearsal hall, concert hall, and the infamous hall where there's a gorgeous tile balcony with intricate details. You also have the chance to listen to the acoustics of the organs, which are unbelievable and beautiful, you will have goosebumps when listening to it. There's also a cafe and gift shop here if you want to relax and take in all that you just saw.
It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, and this space welcomes half a million concert goers every year and many international artist performers from many musical genres. During the tour, you first watch a short film then proceed to see the rehearsal hall, concert hall, and the infamous hall where there's a gorgeous tile balcony with intricate details. You also have the chance to listen to the acoustics of the organs, which are unbelievable and beautiful, you will have goosebumps when listening to it. There's also a cafe and gift shop here if you want to relax and take in all that you just saw.
Boqueria Mercat.
This is one of my favorite markets that I have ever visited in Europe. If you love fresh food and drinks, this is the place to visit. I love coming here for fresh drinks, it just reminds me of home. Having fresh passion fruit juice, mango, coconut, and everything in between is a must for me whenever I'm in Barcelona! They have all sorts of foods to choose from that will satisfy your hunger. This place is notorious for pick-pocketing so be aware of your possessions while walking through since it's pretty much always busy there. I do suggest having your your bags located in front of you!
Watch the Magical Fountain Show.
The Magic Fountains of MontJuic are a must see. This was my first time seeing it and would highly recommend it to anyone whose visiting Barcelona! Not only is it free but it's gorgeous to watch at night and you have great views of the city. It get's pretty packed so I suggest getting there early if you want to have a great spot especially if you're traveling with kids. It's a great vibe, very lively, and beautiful way to end a day of sight-seeing!
Sagrada Familia.
Sagrada Familia is an iconic masterpiece in Barcelona. It's always changing since it isn't completed yet but it's projected to be finished by 2026. I had to revisit this place just for that reason because it looks so different from what I last saw of it in 2015. It's just so beautiful to look at, you can't come to Barcelona without visiting one of Guadi's amazing works of art! I would highly recommend first time goers to visit inside and also do a 360 walk around the church just to see the crazy architecture! Guadi has work all throughout city so make sure to check it if you're interested in seeing awesome buildings and art!
Flamenco Show.
When people think of Spain, flamenco is closely associated for good reason. While Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Spain by tourists it's not where flamenco originated in. The Andalusia region of Spain is where flamenco was born and has more of the authentic experience to it's flamenco history. If you can't make it to Andalusian region (which I highly suggest visiting), the next best thing is to see a flamenco show in Barcelona. There are many places around the city but the one I saw was located at 'El Tablao de Carmen' and while watching the show, you're able to enjoy dinner and drinks there. This place is located in a cute area which is great to walk around and also has shops around the area if you want to get some souvenirs.

Get Lost.
I love saying this to people when people ask me what to do when traveling abroad. There's nothing more beautiful than exploring new eateries, streets, hidden gem corners when arriving into a city. Walking around the opposite direction of many touristy areas, finding shops with unique trinkets, meeting locals, visiting rooftops, taking public transportation, that's what makes travel fun at the end of the day because you end with interesting stories!
Experience Spanish NightLife.
The first night we went bar hopping around the city and it's still one of the liveliest cities when it comes to nightlife. From small pubs to nightclubs on the beach, you'll for sure have a great time here! If you're not much of pub/club type of person, walking around at night in the downtown area/beach area is a great alternative because it's more lively during the night. If you're not familiar with Spanish culture, you need to know that things don't get lively till around 11:30-midnight, so make sure you're rested up before heading out!
Las Ramblas Attack.
I was going back and forth whether to mention this on this blog post but I think it's important to do so. A few days before arriving in Barcelona there was an attack on Las Ramblas. If you're not familiar with Barcelona, las ramblas is a very busy street in the city especially for tourism. The attacker drove through with a van killing thirteen people and injuring many people. As a native New Yorker, I remember what that feels like because of 9/11, it's something that you will always remember and never forget. These things happen and can happen anywhere in the world. Although it happened days prior to our arrival, we continued our trip throughout Spain. When we arrived we saw many vigils, flowers, candles, photos where the attack took place. Even though it felt eerie since it was very recent, you felt a sense of unity and love. There was many peace signs and posters around that area and we also witnessed a protest wanting peace within it's city. I felt very safe there with a huge police presence protecting the city and it's visitors. I wanted to mention this because I want people not to be scared to visit certain places because of things like this, because it can happen anywhere. Like New York or any other city that has experienced this- peace, love, unity always prevails and will become resilient in time.
These pictures are phenomenal! I'm now so excited to finally plan a trip to Spain which I've been meaning to do for a long time now. Exquisite photographs!
ReplyDeletexxo Bri
Thank you so much Brianna! I hope you get to travel to Spain as soon as possible :)
DeleteYour pictures are great! I went to Barcelona last year and looooved it, isn't it just so beautiful there?
ReplyDeleteYes it is as well as the many other cities in Spain!
DeleteWe visited Barcelona for the first time and loved it. We didn't get to do all that we wanted to do due to time constraints. That means we have to go back, right? :)
ReplyDeleteOf course! It's always a great idea to go back to a city you love and explore some more :)
DeleteI love this! Barcelona is on my bucketlist and you've just sold me. Everyone I speak to that has been says how amazing it is.
ReplyDeleteYour pictures are so pretty too - ahhhh i wanna go!!
Thank you so much, I'm glad to hear that my post sold you on visiting Barcelona!
DeleteBeen to barcelona a couple of times and it was always fantastic. This is a great list for a great city
ReplyDeleteThanks Timo!
DeleteI am a sucker for unique architecture and Barcelona does not disappoint! The "melting" buildings are unlike anywhere else on earth.
ReplyDeleteBarcelona never disappoints!
DeleteBarcelona has been on my list for sometime and this looks like a perfect guide to plan the trip. Bookmarking this for later.
ReplyDeleteGlad this guide helps planning your future trip :)
DeleteThese are some amazing insights. I have seen videos of Flamanco Shows and I find them really interesting. I am also looking forward to taste the amazing Spanish cuisine.
ReplyDeleteSpanish cuisine is amazing and flamenco shows are beautiful to watch!
DeleteOh Barcelona. Architecturally it is one of the best places to go.. but I loved open air festivals there more to be honest. Even split up with friends who went to museums... I am more of a party person.
ReplyDeleteSounds cool and fun!
DeleteBarcelona is one of my most favorite cities in the whole world and for a good reason! Seems like you had a great time visiting. Barcelona never disappoints :)
ReplyDeleteTotally agree Daniel!
DeleteBarcelona is my favorite city and you have listed all top tourist attractions of Barcelona. You have taken stunning photos of all attractions. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThanks for reading!
DeleteLooks so beautiful there! Thank you for sharing all these great things to do while visiting Spain. :)
ReplyDeleteI want to make a trip that revolves around all of these spots. I would love to explore that market!
ReplyDeleteSpain is one of the few places I haven't visited as much as I'd like to. It's such a gorgeous country.
ReplyDeleteI am a fan of unique and beautiful architecture and Barcelona has that! This is a country I want to take my family to visit.
ReplyDeleteWe went to Spain a few years ago, and had such a fun time. We definitely want to go again, and now we have some great places to visit.
ReplyDeleteI've always wanted to visit Spain! I've heard it's absolutely beautiful and your photos confirm that.
ReplyDeleteBarcelona looks amazing! Spain is definitely on my bucket list!
ReplyDeleteIt will be visiting the "Boqueria Mercat".
ReplyDeleteOh yes, I would definitely want to see a Flamenca Show. The architecture would be something to behold as well.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the heads up regarding Guell Park, I had no idea that you needed a ticket to get in there! I definitely want to check out the Flamenco and sample some local wines and of course Ibérico de bellota!
ReplyDeleteYou really caught the spirit of the place in those words and pictures. I haven't been there - yet, but I do hope to soon.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE Barcelona! It's one of my most favorite cities, just beautiful!
ReplyDeletebarcelona is on my bucket list. i really hope to get there one day. beautiful photos.
ReplyDeleteI love Barcelona! My favorite place to visit every time is Boqueria Mercat!
ReplyDeleteWow! I did not realize that there are a lot of things to see and do in Barcelona. I haven't been there but after reading your post -- I am know interested to visit this beautiful place. I guess it's long overdue to visit since my aunt has been inviting us for quite some time. Thank you for sharing this.
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