Best Things To Do In Barcelona

Our Local Expert Says:

Check out Chiringuito 23 on the main Barceloneta beach. Great view, reasonably priced food and efficient, friendly service. Everyday after 4pm there's an original happy hour cocktail.

Description:

What used to be one of the dodgiest neighbourds in Barcelona, is now thriving with tourists, locals and all those who appreciate living by the sea. Barceloneta is a diamond in the rough as it posseses both that genuine barrio feel, while at the same time its home to some of the most delicious and well known touristy restaurants in the city. Visit the many seaside patios and chiringuitos for the must try Spanish paella and daytime sangria before hitting up the beach. A perfect place for Sunday strolls with the family, bike rides, surfing and kite surfing or ideal for just working on the tan, Barceloneta is never dull, especially between the months from May-September. The best time to make a beach appearance is in the morning, as it doesn't usually fill up until 1 pm when it often overflows with people. Barceloneta is also home to the Maritime Museum, the casino, as well as some of the most popular (and cheesy) night clubs the city has to offer. There's also a great little plaza across from the market equipped with ping pong tables and a small park for the kids.

Our Local Expert Says:

Although it's a massive tourist trap, Las Ramblas is a great place to shop for gifts. Check out the jewelry stands at the bottom of Las Ramblas, even locals buy things there.

Description:

Whether or not you've been to Barcelona, everyone's heard of Las Ramblas. One of the most renowned walkways in Europe and perhaps the world, this incredible stretch starts at el Colon (Christopher Columbus Statue) by the sea and extends all the way until Plaza Catalunya. Sprinkled with street vendors selling everything from fine jewelry to caged pigeons, the greatest attraction on Las Ramblas is the one of a kind street performers. Depicting the most innovative costumes it's possible to stare at a man sitting perfectly still on a toilet for as long as it takes until someone drops a Euro in his bucket and he makes a funny face. Overcrowded and a hot spot for pickpockets and prostitutes, Las Ramblas is still a definite must see if you're coming to Barcelona.

Our Local Expert Says:

For everything and anything foreign, check out FNAC department store, right across from the Plaza. It contains all types electronic gadgets, magazines in all languages and also has a nice coffee shop below. Best to go early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Description:

If coming to Barcelona, you have to frequent Placa Catalunya. One of, if not the most popular plaza in Barcelona, this 5000 meter square is the cross roads between where the old city and the new city meet. Sitting at the top of the Gotico and Raval and leading into the Eixample and Gracia neighbourhoods, Placa Catalunya is not only a landmark but a gathering point for locals and tourists alike. Hosting outdoor, free concerts and celebrations, Placa Catalunya is right next to El Corte Ingles, FNAC and an abundance of other popular shops and cafes. There's always something happening in the plaza, even if it's just hippies sitting and playing guitar while children run around screaming, it's never dull.

Our Local Expert Says:

Check out, Tapas 24, a great tapas restaurant on Paseo de Gracia and Diputacio. There's always lineups so get there as early as possible. (before 2 to avoid the 2:30 lunch crowd)

Description:

The Champs-Elysees of Barcelona, Passeig de Gracia is the best place to go to do a little shopping, enjoy some entertaining people watching while sipping a café on an outdoor patio, or just a great place to stroll up from Placa Catalunya and into the Gracia neighbourhood. Showcasing popular names and brands such as, Louis Vitton, Gucci, Armand Bassi as well as trendy Spanish stores like Zara and Mango, Passeig de Gracia is one of Barcelona's chicest streets. Full of wide sidewalks, interesting people and tasty restaurants and tapas bars, Passeig de Gracia always has an energetic and exciting buzz. It is also one of the most easily accessible streets, as it's in the center of the city and has direct connection to most of the metro lines including the yellow and green lines. If you want to shop in 'peace' try to come during the week, as weekends are packed.

Description:

Opened in 2004 for the first time as a hotel, Casa Fuster is one of the city's most emblematic moderniste buildings. In the early 20th century it served as private home for the Fuster family, before being bought by a state electricity company in 1960. Recently acquired by the Center Group, which invested 68 million euros ($78.2 million) in its ambitious face-lift, the Casa Fuster is now classified as a five-star deluxe hotel. The result is a combination of sheer luxury and state-of-the art amenities. The renovation has been meticulous in the foyer and downstairs Café Viennese, once a well-known meeting spot for the city's intelligentsia. A Belle Epoque color scheme in mauve, magenta, and taupe has been adopted in the rooms, many with balconies that look onto the elegant Passeig de Gràcia. In keeping with the period architecture, drapery, cushions, and padding are abundant, giving the hotel a slightly over-stuffed feel for some. But if it's total indulgence you are after, plus a chance to live like the turn-of-the-20th-century bourgeoisie, the Casa Fuster offers everything you could possibly want: from Loewe toiletries to hydro-massage showers and an extremely high staff-to-guest ratio. Unlike other luxury hotels such as the Arts or La Florida, the Casa Fuster also has the added advantage of being located in the city center, with some of the best shopping and sightseeing on its doorstep. Check their website for special deals.

Description:

This restaurant is one of the many popular places in El Born. It used to be a salt storehouse, but was later converted into a welcoming bar-restaurant. White is the predominant color. The furniture is amazing and the bar is enormous. It is always full of trendy, modern young people. The menu changes with the seasons and offers delightful salads, steamed vegetables, warm pears, teriyaki chicken, etc. Their desserts are homemade, the music is well-chosen and the wine list is splendid.

Description:

Looking for an accommodation that is cheap and centrally located? This hostel could be your pick. It's nestled between the Ramblas and Plaça del Pi. The building's late 19th-century façade is painted with charming plant motifs and looks great after its restoration in 1992. Ask for one of the quiet, cozy bedrooms overlooking the Carrer Casanyas.

Description:

Gaudí's incomplete masterpiece is one of the city's more idiosyncratic creations -- if you have time to see only one Catalan landmark, you should make it this one. Begun in 1882 and incomplete at the architect's death in 1926, this incredible temple -- the Church of the Holy Family -- is a bizarre wonder. The languid, amorphous structure embodies the essence of Gaudí's style, which some have described as Art Nouveau run wild.

The Sagrada Família became Gaudí's all-encompassing obsession toward the last years of this intensely religious man's life. The commission came from the Josephines, a right-wing, highly pious faction of the Catholic Church. They were of the opinion that the decadent city needed an expiatory (atonement) temple where its inhabitants could go and do penance for their sins. Gaudí, whose view of Barcelona's supposed decadence largely mirrored that of the Josephines, by all accounts had a free hand; money was no object, nor was there a deadline. As Gaudí is known to have said, "My client [God] is in no hurry."

Literally dripping in symbolism, the Sagrada Família was conceived to be a "catechism in stone." The basic design followed that of a Gothic church, with transepts, aisles, and a central nave. Apart from the riot of stone carvings, the grandeur of the structure comes from the elongated towers: four above each of the three facades (representing the apostles) reaching 100m (329 ft.), with four more (the evangelists) shooting up from the central section at a lofty 170m (558 ft.). The words SANCTUS, SANCTUS, SANCTUS, HOSANNA IN EXCELSIUS (Holy, Holy, Holy, Glory to God in the Highest) are written on these, further embellished with colorful geometric tilework. The last tower, being built over the apse, will be higher still and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is the two completed facades, however, that are the biggest crowd pleasers. The oldest, and the only one to be completed while the architect was alive, is the Nativity Facade on the Carrer Marina. So rich in detail, upon first glance it seems like a wall of molten wax. As the name suggests, the work represents the birth of Jesus; its entire expanse is crammed with figurines of the Holy Family, flute-bearing angels, and an abundance of flora and fauna. Nature was Gaudí's passion; he spent hours studying its forms in the countryside of his native Reus, south of Barcelona, and much of his work is inspired by nature. On the Nativity facade, he added birds, mushrooms, even a tortoise to go along with the rest of the religious imagery. The central piece is the "Tree of Life," a Cyprus tree scattered with nesting white doves.

On the opposite side, the Passion Facade is a harsh counterpart to the fluidity of the Nativity Facade. It is the work of Josep M. Subirachs, a well-known Catalan sculptor who, like Gaudí, has set up a workshop inside the church to complete his work. His highly stylized, elongated figures are of Christ's passion and death, from Last Supper to the Crucifixion. The work, started in 1952, has been highly criticized. In the book Barcelona, art critic Robert Hughes called it "the most blatant mass of half-digested moderniste clichés to be plunked on a notable building within living memory."

Despite his and dozens of other voices of dissent, work moves forward. In 1936, anarchists attacked the church (as they did many others in the city), destroying the plans and models Gaudí had left behind. The present architects, aided by modern technology, are working from photographs of those models. The central nave is starting to take shape and the Glory Facade is limping along. It is estimated that the whole thing will be completed by 2026 (the centenary of Gaudí's death), funded entirely by visitors and private donations.

Admission includes a 12-minute video on Gaudí's religious and secular works as well as entrance to the museum, where fascinating reconstructions of Gaudí's original models are on show.

Our Local Expert Says:

The dancing water fountain performance is one of Placa Espanya's biggest selling points. Best to be seen at night, this combination of dancing water, music and lights is an unforgettable experience. Night shows are only on Friday's and Saturday's from 7-9pm.

Description:

Situated at the foot of Montjuic, in the distric of Sants-Montjuic, lies Placa Espanya. One of Barcelona's most well known squares and designed by one of Gaudi's disciples, Placa Espanya is a great place to visit not only for its famous 'magic fountain' performance, but because of its close proximity to almost everything. It's just a short walk from the up and coming barrio, Poble Sec and is also walking distance to cool sites such as the National Art Museum of Catalonia, one of Spain's finest. Originally built in 1929 to be used for the Universal Exposition, today Placa Espanya is used by the public for all types of gatherings and events.

Our Local Expert Says:

To experience a little more of the local side, walk slightly off the beaten path and further into the garden. There's often groups of hippies chilling, playing guitar and hanging out in the sun. They always welcome visitors.

Description:

One of Barcelona's greatest attractions and one of the few that are absolutely free, is Gaudi's incredible Park Guell. Get anywhere near the Vallcarca stop on the green line and you'll see tourists lumped together, maps in hand, asking locals for Park 'Guay'. Designed and built by Gaudi between 1900 and 1914, this spectacular mix of garden, park and architectural dream is a small oasis within Barcelona. From the mosaic benches, to the meticulously tiled rooftops, Park Guell is both fascinating as it is serene. One of the best places to spend a sunny day, the park is a great place to listen to music, enjoy a few copas of vino or just relax with a good book.

Description:

This functional spot was designed for young people. It is decorated with huge windows and careful style, and attracts a heterogeneous clientele daily. Some of the customers are artists, representing the Barri Gòtic's ambience. They offer a starters menu with varied salads and some surprises, and a pizza menu with odd combinations such as Roquefort cheese with apple and salmon with mint. The waiters are fast, attentive and always smiling. Try any of the chef's pastries for dessert. In the summer you can enjoy your meal at the tables outdoors.

Description:

This club attracting large crowds because of the spectacular interior decor and the choice of music played. It is divided into three rooms—the Sala Rock room for dance music and rock, Sala Arutanga for salsa and other Latin rhythms, and Sala Dry for light music where you can have a drink and chat with your friends. The club organizes live concerts which sometimes feature well-known international artists. The cover charge includes one free drink.

Our Local Expert Says:

On Paseo Del Born there's a few great tapas bars where all you have to do is buy a drink and you eat for free. Best to arrive before 9pm, as most places stop serving at 10pm and all the good food usually comes out between 6-8pm.

Description:

Combine gourmet food and Catalan culture on a pre-dinner walking tour of Barcelona's famous tapas bars. It's a great way to begin your visit of Barcelona – not only do you get an overview of this fabulous city, you also learn how to order tapas (bar snacks) and discover some of the best bars and cafes Barcelona has to offer. Plus, your friendly, informative guide can offer suggestions to help you get the most from your stay in Barcelona.

Your tapas walking tour of Barcelona begins at a restaurant offering a wide selection of local, delectable tapas. Here you will enjoy three tapas with a glass of wine or beer, while your food and wine guide provides insights into the flavors of the wine, the cuisine and Spanish culture.

From here your guide will lead you to Barcelona's most famous street, La Rambla, with its bird cages, tapas bars and local restaurants. On your stroll down La Rambla you will make a detour to La Boqueria, the city's famous food market which offers an array of fresh produce including fruit and vegetables, live seafood, cheeses and every type of meat imaginable.

You'll continue to the Gothic Quarter, where you will discover the architecture, atmosphere, language and gastronomy that are unique to Spain, and some of the gourmet shops which are over 100 years old.

Your last stop will be at a Basque bar in a historic 14th-century building, an ideal spot to take a break on your trip through the Gothic Quarter. Here three tasty tapas and a glass of wine, beer or cider will be waiting for you.

Our Local Expert Says:

There are a couple of ice cream parlors on this street which can save you on a hot day.

Description:

Extending from the Liceu on the Ramblas to Plaça Sant Jaume, this is where Saint James' Church was constructed in the fourteenth century, on the site of an ancient synagogue. Today only the facade of this church remains, the rest of the building dates from the XVI and XVII centuries. The rest of the buildings on the street are from later periods. It has been changed to a walking street, making it much more pleasurable to stroll along. There are a lot of shops and cafés here as well - check out the grocers' shops that still have wonderful display windows like in past.

Our Local Expert Says:

Calle Ferran in the Gotico, has some of the chicest and unique designer stores in the city. Watch your bags though, the Gotico is infamous for theft.

Description:

One of the oldest neighbourhoods in Barcelona, the Gotico remains at the heart of Barcelona's downtown district. Both grungy and trendy, this neighbourhood is filled with small nooks and crannies, bars, cool restaurants, niche shops and eclectic jewelers. Just a stone's throw from the Born and the beach, the Gotico is home to Barcelona's magnificent Cathedral which dates back to 14th century. It is also home to Placa Reial, the most well known square for backpackers as it's home to the ever so popular Kabul Hostel.

Description:

Rooftop pool above, designer boutiques below. This hotel enjoys a prime location on the Passeig de Gràcia, just two blocks from Gaudí's La Pedrera and Casa Batlló and walking distance to Las Ramblas. All 303 recently redecorated guestrooms feature Mediterranean colors and wireless Internet access. Luxurious rooftop penthouse just added. On the rooftop terrace with panoramic views are a swimming pool and a bar, which leads to a health center with sauna and steam room.

Description:

Music, theater and other artistic concepts gather in this spot. The music, mainly funk and dance, is to be enjoyed on the dance floor—non-stop. The live performances are well-chosen and of high professional quality. It is a very promising place, interesting and an excellent chance to have great fun. Great choice for a night out.

Description:

On any given day, one of the most popular questions to be asked while strolling around Barcelona is: Where can I find the Cathedral? One of the most poignant landmarks in the city, this Romanesque architectural vision, is located in the Gothic Quarter (barrio Gotico) of Barcelona and attracts streams of tourists day and night. The Cathedral has been reformed and rebuilt several times and when looking closely it's easy to see the architectural differences from across the centuries. In addition to the Cathedral, the Gotico has a host of incredible Gothic style buildings, small quaint squares and of course the Picasso Museum.

Description:

This pride of the Born District is the business venture of Carles Abellan. A restaurant-cum-tapas bar, the venue also serves certain Asian, American and Italian specialties. There are three distinct seating areas, but the tall pillars, high ceiling, spotlights and yellow tone run through the whole interior. Besides delectable drinks, the bar with its individual table-space also features cold dishes prepared right in front of you. The dining section accommodates around 40 people and can be rented for private events. A visit here is a must; make sure to reserve a table in advance.

Description:

The decor, laid out like bars in New York in the 1940s, sends you back in time and is quite cinematographic; the music, too, is mainly film soundtracks. They often have exhibitions on the Seventh Art (Cinema). The clientèle is mainly young and middle-high class because of the bar's location in one of the most exclusive districts in Barcelona. In addition to all sorts of cocktails and drinks, they have a selection of 25 different whiskeys and 15 malt whiskey.

Description:

This theatre is built on the site of the old Teatre Barcelona, which was destroyed. It has one auditorium, seating 220, and puts on musicals and concerts at varying times. It also opens its doors to other less common performing arts. Its most original shows are the dinner shows, which begin at 9p. The food is always good, and there is a lively atmosphere.

Description:

This old theatre converted into a club offers good music and company. The majority of customers are modern, and very fashionable. The music is good: techno, electro and house in the main room, pop in the Picnic Bar and hip-hop in the Def Room. There is a monthly programme with international DJs, and the regulars are Fra DJ, Sesentaynueve, Coco, Chelin, Mario, dani Mother and Rasco. There are usually no problems getting in, although image is important and the clientele can be quite pretentious.