Recently, I got back from a 3-week vacation in Spain. My sister, friend, and I explored three parts of the country and cannot wait to go back. We ate all the tapas and saw all the sights. Anyways, stay tuned for two more guides in the next few weeks.
But for now, here’s my guide for all the things to do in Barcelona. It’s a great place for exploring, eating great food, getting lost in the streets, and immersing oneself in culture.
WHERE TO GET CULTURED
Sagrada Familia
See the genius work of Antoni Gaudi come to life by visiting Sagrada Familia. I recommend reserving tickets in advance and don’t forget to wear a top that covers your shoulders, or else you’ll be turned back.
Dress: Uniqlo 
Gaudi Houses
I highly recommend visiting all three Gaudi houses on the same day (make reservations ahead of time). They are all unique in their own way. Plus, it’s fun to compare all of them. My favorite was Casa Vicens for it’s lush garden and yellow-themed details.
Casa Vicens 
Casa Vicens // Dress: H&M 
Casa Mila 
Casa Batllo 
Casa Batllo Exterior
Parc Guell
Walk through various gardens and marvel at beautiful architectural elements in this park.
Cute sister! 
Cheetah girls 
Topshop top // Uniqlo x JW Anderson shorts 
The famous lizard
Gaudi’s Crypt
Visit this stunning unfinished Gaudi church outside of Barcelona.
Those arches! 
Cathedral of Barcelona
Make sure to check out the rooftop for cool city views!
WHERE TO EAT
Billy Brunch
Billy Brunch is an adorable cafe to eat a yummy breakfast before you begin exploring the city. This place offers classic breakfast staples, like eggs benedict and more. Their menu is on the healthy side, so expect kale-filled plates and acai bowls.
El Xampanyet
This place is conveniently located down the street from the Picasso Museum. Step into a well-decorated space with gorgeous blue and white tile walls. Order all the tapas from their menu. Their plates, like their grilled beef with peppers and pasta were our favorites! While you’re at it, try their delicious homemade cava (champagne)—Casa Estevet.
Full of locals and tourists!
La Plata
After exploring the Gothic Quarter, get tapas at this cozy bar. Fun fact, Anthony Bourdain visited this place during his tour of Barcelona. The best thing about this bar was their short and sweet menu. Order all four things off of the menu and don’t be shy to order seconds of their pain con tomate (bread with tomato), deep-fried sardines, and their yummy mini-sausage sandwiches.
Elche
For delicious paella, visit Elche! This restaurant is more on the fancy side, so it’s a great place to have your last “hurrah” in Barcelona. Choose a paella to share with your dinner party.
Vivo Tapas Restaurant Coctelería
Experience elevated tapas at this lovely restaurant. We dined outside, but make sure to peek in to see its stunning decor. Decorated with bright lights and a tile floor with an intricate pattern, you’re going to want to take many pictures. This was one of our favorite tapas restaurants—their seafood was so flavorful. Make sure to order their arroz negro con chipirones y allíoli (black rice with squid)!
Anita Flow
If you’re tired of tapas, go to Anita Flow for modern comfort food. This restaurant is located in the Eixample neighborhood, where there’s a mix of luxurious shopping spots and a fun area full of LGBTQ+ bars. This eatery is known for their quirky style and healthy-ish dishes, including a yummy pizza with a crust made out of plantains. Oh, and their patatas bravas were one of the best!
WHERE TO DRINK
Bar l’Antic Teatre
After a live performance at the Antic Teatre, head outside to enjoy drinks and light snacks. This place is so fun for people watching!
Libertine Cocktail Bar
For your nightcap, head to this moody cocktail bar. Relax on their velvet couches and take a polaroid with their neon sign to stay trendy.
Why Not Gastro Bar
Sip on a flavorful cocktail at this lovely bar with hipster decor. I know my negronis and theirs were amazing!
Hotel Pulitzer
This hotel has an adorable rooftop bar packed with luscious plants and has great views of the city. Sometimes they even have live music, so check out their schedule before going!
WHERE TO EXPLORE
Ciutadella Park
A perfect place for walking around and eating an ice-cream cone!
Montjuic Area
Walk around, take photos on artsy steps, and visit the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya if you’re up for it.
H&M top // Uniqlo x JW Anderson shorts 
Jardí Botànic de Barcelona
A great place to escape the heat in the shadows. This garden has plenty of photogenic nooks and crannies.
Tibidabo
Enjoy the scenic views from this mountaintop. Stop by for drinks at El Balconet and then enjoy dinner at La Venta. We spent four hours at La Venta and it did not disappoint. Make sure to ask for Señor Lopez when you’re there for excellent service. 🙂
WHERE TO BEACH
Barceloneta Beach
Although this wasn’t my favorite beach since it was packed with people, it’s definitely a classic Barcelona beach, so check it out.
Platja de la Fragata & Platja de la Ribera
Take a train to Sitges, a cute coastal town outside of Barcelona and soak up the sun! I loved how these beaches weren’t busy compared to the main ones in Barcelona.
Sitges
FINAL TIPS
La Rambla
This may be an unpopular opinion, but I wouldn’t recommend going to La Rambla. This famous boulevard runs through the city and is known for its shopping area. However, I find it overrated and overly touristy. If anything, I’d recommend checking it out early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Explore by Neighborhood!
Break up your time in Barcelona by exploring different neighborhoods. Some of my favorites were the Gothic Quarter for its narrow streets, the Eixample District for vibrant nightlife, and El Raval for cool street art.
Have you been to Barcelona? Let me know how you liked it down below!
torimuser 