Things to do in Barcelona

A lively and entertaining place by day or night, the city’s iconic central street, where hawkers, stallholders, eccentrics and tourists collide to gleeful effect. It’s at the heart of the city’s self-image – lined with cafés, restaurants, souvenir shops, flower stalls and newspaper kiosks.

Strolling down La Rambla is one of the quintessential things to do in Barcelona. As you meander, you'll encounter street performers, artists, and musicians adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the colorful mosaic by Joan Miró embedded in the pavement—a subtle nod to the city's artistic heritage.

Nearby, the historic Liceu Theatre and the bustling Mercat de la Boqueria offer cultural and culinary delights, making this promenade a microcosm of Barcelona's charm.

This famous unfinished church – a pilgrimage to the ‘Sacred Family’ temple – is an absolute must for Gaudí fans. Gaudí spent more than 40 years working on the church and wasadapting the plans right up to his untimely death. 

Among the top things to see in Barcelona, the Sagrada Família stands out with its intricate facades and towering spires. Inside, sunlight filters through vibrant stained-glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the nave. Booking a guided tour can provide deeper insights into Gaudí's vision and the symbolism embedded in every corner of this architectural masterpiece.

Barcelona’s most adventurous art museum houses the life’s work of the great Catalan artist Joan Miró. Inside the stark white building is a permanent collection of works largely donated by Miró himself and covering the period from 1914 to 1978.

For art enthusiasts, the Fundació Joan Miró offers a journey through surrealism and abstract expression. Set against the backdrop of Montjuïc hill, the museum's terraces provide panoramic views of the city, complementing the vibrant artworks within. Temporary exhibitions and educational programs further enrich the visitor experience, making it a dynamic cultural hub.

The city’s finest food market is a show in its own right, stacked high with delectable wares and busy with locals and tourists from dawn to dusk. Other markets might protest, but the city’s glorious main food market really can claim to be the best in Spain.

Exploring Mercat de la Boqueria is a sensory delight. The market's vibrant stalls offer everything from fresh seafood to exotic fruits, reflecting the city's rich culinary tapestry. Sampling local delicacies like jamón ibérico or sipping on freshly squeezed juices provides an authentic taste of Catalan culture.

The largest collection of the artist’s work outside Paris. There are almost 4,000 works in the permanent collection – housed in five adjoining medieval palaces – which provide a fascinating opportunity to trace Picasso’s development as an artist. The museum's chronological layout allows visitors to witness Picasso's evolution, from his academic studies to his pioneering cubist works. The Gothic architecture of the palaces adds a historical ambiance to the artistic journey.

At the heart of this old quarter, the city’s majestic medieval cathedral anchors the Old Town and is the pride of its Gothic era. Around here are hidden squares, some fascinating museums, the city’s old Jewish quarter and the remains of the Roman walls.

Wandering through the Gothic Quarter reveals quiet courtyards, artisan shops and timeless alleyways. Discover tucked-away gems like Plaça Sant Felip Neri or catch the echo of footsteps on ancient cobblestones beneath fluttering laundry lines and wrought-iron balconies.

The great urban escape is to the city’s four kilometres of sand-fringed sea, dotted with parks and playgrounds. Locals make full use of the beach and boardwalks, descending in force at the weekends for a leisurely lunch or late drink in one of the scores of restaurants and bars.

The seaside buzzes with life—joggers, cyclists, rollerbladers, and swimmers all sharing the sun-soaked space. As the day winds down, locals gather with sangria to catch the sunset or enjoy a relaxed dinner by the marina. It’s the perfect blend of city and sea.