Top 12 Things to Do in Barcelona

A Must-See Guide

Start your visit by exploring Barcelona’s beautiful bookstores like Ona Llibres, Librería Byron, and Finestres, with García Márquez Library in Poblenou being a standout for its stunning design and global acclaim.

Cool off with unique ice cream treats from Barcelona’s top parlors such as Lucciano’s spaceship-themed shop, Mamá Heladera’s memory-inspired creations, and Badiani’s local flavors.

Seek tranquility at Santa Anna, a Romanesque church with serene cloisters and the Chapel of the Pardons, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle.

Enjoy tapas at Bodega d’en Rafel near La Paloma, renowned for its spectacular tortillas, croquettes, and squid dishes, recommended by singer Rosalía and always bustling with patrons.

Sip storytelling-inspired cocktails at Mariposa Negra in El Born, where founder Luca Corradini creates unique drinks in custom-designed glasses, inspired by Carlos Ruiz Zafón’s novel ‘Marina.’

Reflect on life at Cementiri de Montjuïc, a vast and colorful necropolis with sections for different faiths, memorials for Civil War martyrs, and plans to showcase funeral carriages.

Discover Barcelona’s urban art scene in Poblenou, Poble-sec, and Sant Andreu, with highlights like the Besòs River Park project aiming to be Europe’s largest urban art museum.

Experience thrilling views by riding the Port Cable Car from Montjuïc to Barceloneta, soaring 70 meters above the city in a red cabin with breathtaking panoramas.

Find peace at the Umbracle, an iron-structured botanical garden from the 19th century, perfect for morning visits to admire exotic plants and enjoy a quiet reading spot.

Marvel at the historic Sant Felip Neri square in the Gothic Quarter, marked by a church with shrapnel scars from the Civil War and a romantic restaurant terrace at Hotel Neri.

Indulge in vinyl records at Discos Paradiso, a haven for electronic music lovers, and explore other specialized record stores like Bcore, Discos Revolver, and Daily Records.

Take an alternative modernista tour beyond famous sites like Sagrada Família, exploring lesser-known gems like Casa Vicens, Hotel Espanya, Casa Thomas, and Casa Planells, rich in Catalan modernism.