Top things to do in Barcelona

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Top things to do in Barcelona

Aerial view of Barcelona Eixample residential district and Sagrada Familia Basilica at sunrise.

Barcelona is the capital city of Catalonia and it’s situated on the sunny shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Barcelona attracts visitors with its mix of creativity, history, and culture. Known for its unique traditions, delicious food, and stunning architecture.

In Barcelona, you'll find vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. The city's rich cultural scene adds to its charm and allure, making it a truly amazing destination.

Barcelona boasts a bustling arts scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and street performers adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Its diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own character and charm, offer endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Barcelona hosts a multitude of cultural events and festivals year-round, celebrating everything from music and dance to food and traditions. These festivities showcase the city's rich cultural heritage in vibrant ways.

Sagrada Familia Guided Tour

Sagrada Familia - Gaudi - Aerial shot

The Sagrada Familia, among Barcelona top attractions, is a famous building in Barcelona, Spain. Designed by an architect named Antoni Gaudi, the building is special because of its colourful windows. 

La Sagrada Família is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be it for inspiration or admiration of Gaudí's artistic creations, the Sagrada Familia is must-see. Its brilliance and ageless beauty will amaze you.

One of the most striking features of the Sagrada Familia is its forest of towers and spires, reaching towards the sky.

The designer Gaudí believed that human creations should not surpass the work of God. He designed the central tower to be one meter shorter than Barcelona's Montjuic hill.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore the Sagrada Familia on a guided tour with skip-the-line tickets. Marvel at the intricate interior and mix of different architecture styles. 
  • Hear the history of this ever-changing masterpiece from the expert guide. When you enter the basilica, you will see its grand halls. Sunlight shines through beautiful stained glass windows, creating a captivating glow inside.
  • Visit the Nacimiento façade, the insides of the Basilica, Pasión façade, and the Sagrada Familia's school.
  • The local guides will explain everything about Gaudí's masterpiece. 
  • Marvel at the detailed sculptures and designs on the outside of the building. 
  • Watch as workers continue to build inside the basilica, showing it's still under construction. This shows how the building is always evolving and expanding.
  • After the tour, you can explore the museum inside Sagrada Familia. It has drawings, models, and pictures that tell the story of the Basilica. 

Visitor Highlights

  • Personalized Experience: Take pleasure in a personalized and immersive tour in a small, exclusive group. With skip the line tickets access save you time and enjoy the guided tour.
  • ​​​​​​​Insider Knowledge: Gather information about the famous building from our guide. They will provide you with interesting tales and incidents.
  • Skip-the-Line Access: Bypass long queues with pre-booked Barcelona tour tickets. Maximize your time to explore best Barcelona tours.
  • Memorable Moments: Capture Instagram-worthy photos and create memorable memories with our Barcelona guided tours.

Park Güell Tour

Picture of Park Guell of Barcelona captured during golden hour, designed by the famous architect Antoní Gaudí. UNESCO World Heritage since 1984.

Explore Park Güell in Barcelona, Spain, at your own pace with a timed admission ticket. This is among the best places to visit in Barcelona.

Discover the amazing artwork of Antoni Gaudí, like the colorful Dragon Stairway and much more. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush Austria Gardens and snap breathtaking photos of Barcelona from the park's viewpoints.

Park Güell was given the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is seen as a valuable asset and contributes to the world's cultural heritage.

Park Guell was initially meant to be a residential area with gardens. However, project was unsuccessful and very few homes were built.

In the centre of the park is a large square with a huge bench that stretches 360 feet (110 meters) long. The bench looks like a long snake and is covered with colourful patchwork. The major attractions include: The Dragon Stairway, The Serpentine Bench, Austria Gardens, El Drac, and Laundry Room Portico.

From certain spots within the park, visitors can take in expansive views of Barcelona and the adjacent sea. With its scenic vistas and serene ambiance, the park offers a delightful setting for exploration and appreciation of the city's natural beauty.

Tour Highlights

  • Learn about the history of the park from an expert local guide. Eusebi Güell commissioned the park. The design followed the style of a British private park on Bare Mountain in the early 20th century. The famous architect Antonio Gaudí made the park between 1900 and 1914.
  • Climb the Calvary Mountain with three crosses built by Gaudí for a fantastic view of Barcelona. Walk along Lovers' Viaduct romantic path and maybe even catch some live music from talented musicians.
  • Visit another attraction, Palm Tree Promenade. Enjoy a beautiful walk among colourful flowers and unique trees along this path.
  • Enter the amazing area of the terrace with Gaudí's architecture masterpieces and enjoy a stunning view of Barcelona. You can take photos, relax, or admire the colorful mosaic serpent.
  • Visit the pavilions at the park entrance. One shows videos about Gaudí's life, while the other is a souvenir shop.
  • Don't miss the famous mosaic salamander at the center of the staircase, representing one of Spain's important symbols. Keep walking and you'll find a stunning stairway. Explore the most famous part of Park Güell: a 2.4-meter-long dragon fountain covered in colourful mosaic tiles.
  • With your mobile voucher, skip the hassle of printing and queuing at the entrance. Though you must enter at your booked time, you're free to stay and soak up the beauty of Park Güell for as long as you like. Visit iconic spots like the Hypostyle Room and Nature Square and make memories to last a lifetime.

Visitor Highlights

  • Relaxing Stroll: Park Güell offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Park invites you to linger and explore at your leisure. Unwind and soak in the sights and calmness of the lush gardens and colourful mosaic.
  • Expert Guided Tour: Take advantage of the knowledge and insights of our experienced guides. Listen to the fascinating facts and stories throughout the tour. Video and audio guides will enhance your experience.
  • Personalized Experience: Enjoy a personalized and immersive tour with small groups. This will save your time and let you enjoy the guided tour.

Spanish & Catalan Cuisine Cooking Classes

Picture of Park Guell of Barcelona captured during golden hour, designed by the famous architect Antoní Gaudí. UNESCO World Heritage since 1984.
  • Join our highly recommended cooking classes for an exciting journey into the tastes of Catalonia. Led by expert chefs, these hands-on workshops teach you Spanish and Catalan cooking traditions, like tapas and paella.
  • Learn authentic recipes passed down for generations as you cook and enjoy local specialties. Whether you're a pro or a beginner, our classes are fun and educational.
  • Take home newfound skills and recipes to impress your friends and family. Recreate the magic of Catalonia in your own kitchen.
  • Explore the local markets and select fresh and seasonal ingredients. Gain insights into the importance of quality produce in Spanish and Catalan cuisine.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore the delicious Catalan cuisine and food tours through Barcelona's markets and eateries. From seafood dishes to sweet churros con chocolate, every bite tells a story of the region's flavours. Start with learning the basics of Spanish and Catalan cuisine.
  • Begin by exploring world famous La Boqueria market with the chef to find fresh ingredients. Walk down the narrow streets of La Ciutat Vella, or old town, to El Born, the most fashionable district of the city.
  • Then, head to the kitchen to cook together. Discover the secrets of authentic recipes. Engage with a local chef to learn how to make Spanish tapas, traditional paella, and sangria. 
  • Experience chopping, sautéing, and savouring your way through a delicious menu of local specialties. Prepare an authentic paella de marisco, or seafood paella, Spain’s traditional rice dish.
  • Exchange experiences with classmates from all over the world throughout the cooking lesson and meal. Moreover, sharing laughter, wine, and local food will add memories to your tour.
  • Finally, savour the meal you've prepared and take home the recipes.

Visitor Highlights

  • Insider Access: Gain insider access to Barcelona's culinary scene with our expert guides. During the cooking class, prepare a traditional 4-course meal with the local chef. They will lead you to hidden gems and local favourites off the beaten path.
  • Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the Spanish and Catalan cuisine as you interact with chefs, artisans, and food lovers. Learn about the secrets of authentic recipes.
  • Memorable Experiences: Bring back more than just recipes. Treasure the memories of laughter and learning in the kitchen, knowing you've experienced Barcelona's culture in a unique way. From market tours to cooking demonstrations, each experience promises to be a highlight of your Barcelona city tour.

Travel Tips

  • Plan your trip to Barcelona during the off-season to avoid the crowds and see the city with less people.
  • Visit well-known sites like Sagrada Familia or Park Güell early in the morning when there are fewer people around to avoid the crowds.
  • Dress in modest attire as Sagrada Familia is a religious site.
  • Take advantage of rainy weather to enjoy Barcelona's sights without the crowds. Museums, indoor markets like La Boqueria, and cozy cafes can be great options on rainy days.
  • Explore Barcelona's lesser-known attractions by taking a side trip. Meander through the narrow lanes of the Gothic Quarter or El Born district.
  • Take part in local Catalan traditions like giant parades, human tower formations, Sardana dance circles, and Correfoc fire parades to enhance your tour.
  • Use Barcelona's public transit system to tour the city swiftly and take in the sights from various angles. Public transit includes the metro and buses.
  • Save time by purchasing advance tickets online for popular attractions like Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. Skip the long lines and enjoy a hassle-free experience.

Know Before You Go

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Lightweight clothing for warm weather.
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses for protection from the sun.
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing memorable moments.
  • Water bottle to stay hydrated during sightseeing.
  • Portable charger for your devices.

What Not to Bring

  • Large bags or luggage (limited space in crowded areas and on public transportation).
  • High heels (unsuitable for walking on uneven streets and cobblestones).
  • Excessive jewelry or valuables (minimize the risk of theft).
  • Non-essential electronics (reduce the risk of damage or loss).
  • Single-use plastics (embrace eco-friendly alternatives to reduce environmental impact).

Getting There

  • Barcelona is easily accessible by air, with Barcelona–El Prat Airport serving as the primary gateway for international travellers. From the airport, you can reach the city centre via taxi, airport shuttle, or the efficient metro system.
  • Once in Barcelona, public transportation offers convenient access to the city's top attractions, including buses, trams, and the metro.
  • Trains arrive at Barcelona Sants, the primary train station, which is well-connected to the metro and buses.
  • If you're driving, consider using public transport for bus city tour Barcelona and parking outside the city centre. You can also explore Barcelona by biking along designated lanes or walking on foot-friendly streets.