BarcelonaTop Places to Visit in Barcelona

If you're thinking of where to go in Spain for your next holiday, including a day trip or a few days in Barcelona will give you something special to remember. Barcelona is the finest & one of the most beautiful and vibrant European cities that should be on your family travel itinerary.


With stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, plenty of sunshine, and all kinds of fun things to do - from world-class attractions like La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell to parks, beaches and markets - Barcelona has something for everyone.


If you're looking for a terrific way to relax during your vacation there, we've come up with some great ideas to help make this trip unforgettable. Keep reading below as we explore our top picks for the most enjoyable and memorable activities to do while visiting Barcelona!

La_Torre_del_sol_campsite_near_BarcelonaStay at Costa Dorada

Our Costa Dorada campsite, La Torre del Sol, is further up the northeastern coast of Spain but is close enough to make a day trip to Barcelona. You may be touring Spain and stopping off for a few days. Whether you visit for the day or a more extended trip, it won't be enough to enjoy all Barcelona offers.

Staying at a a campsite in one of our fabulous mobile homes gives you the perfect base for your holiday. Enjoy days in and days out.

What To Do in Barcelona

Barcelona, Catalonia's cosmopolitan capital, has a rich history and culture. With its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, you'll never be short of things to do in this bustling Mediterranean metropolis. From the iconic works of Antoni Gaudi to the lively streets of El Born, Barcelona is a destination that should not be missed. Whether you're a first-time visitor to this stunning city or a seasoned traveller, this article will guide you through Barcelona's must-see sights and experiences.

La_Sagrada_Familia

 La Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Família is one of Barcelona's best-known attractions and among the world's most unique religious buildings.
It's the 5-decade life's work of Catalonia's celebrity architect, Antonio Gaudi. It attracts visitors from a long distance and broad view with its stunning façades, extraordinary sculptural details, and glorious stained glass.


Sagrada Família is a must-see for anyone travelling to Barcelona – you can appreciate the craftsmanship even while walking past the building and marvel twice as much when heading inside!
The Sagrada Família is a church with several architectural styles, such as Catalan Modernism, Art Nouveau and Spanish Late-Gothic. However, when you look at the nave's ceiling in person, Gaudí's genius defies any definition.


Explore all his 19th-century work and visit Gaudi's crypt, where he was laid to rest in 1926. Visit Sagrada Família today to be awestruck!

Las_Ramblas_BarcelonaLas Ramblas

Las Ramblas, easily the most famous street in Barcelona, should be a must-visit for tourists.
This 1.2km boulevard starts at Plaça de Catalunya, and your walk will end at the statue of Christopher Columbus down by the port.
While it's true that many locals dislike this promenade due to the hustle and bustle of it all, visitors have loads to take in as they stroll beneath the shade of tall plane trees and watch as living statues, street performers, bird sellers, flower stands and more pass them by.

You might even catch a whiff of waffles (gofres) being baked! Once you get to the waterfront, you can continue along the boards to explore Maremagnum mall or Barcelona's Aquarium.

Moray_photographed_at_Barcelona_AquariumL'Aquàrium de Barcelona

Barcelona's state-of-the-art aquarium is one of the finest in Europe, with 35 tanks housing eleven thousand creatures, including poisonous and tropical fish and less exotic varieties. Since its opening in 1995, the aquarium has been visited by more than 14 million people.

The first section focuses on the Mediterranean, which is home to communities of eels and octopuses.

The following section, devoted to the Red Sea and other tropical waters, is more vibrant. Here, reef sharks and bright yellow butterfly fish are displayed among native vegetation. The biggest crowd-pleaser is the close encounter with the grey sharks, guitarfish, and eagle and marble rays in the Oceanarium. An 80m long glass tunnel lets you see these sleek creatures from all angles as you are moved along by a conveyor belt.

Upstairs, the Explora section has 50 interactive games and activities to entertain the children. Located at Barcelona's Port at the foot of Las Ramblas, the aquarium is easy to access. The nearest tube stop is Barceloneta, which will take you to our campsite in Spain in around 45 minutes.

Casa_Batllo_BarcelonaCasa Batlló

Casa Batlló is one of the finest things to check out in Barcelona. Built at the edge of the 20th century, Casa Batlló combines an apartment block and a work of art.
Gaudí's signature designs are everywhere you look - from the adorably soft tiles that make up its dragon-like roof to its curved lines with eye-catching details like the mushroom shape fireplace on the noble floor.
Just taking a stroll around Casa Batlló's Passeig de Gràcia location affords incredible sights, including its gorgeous roof, wavy architecture and dazzling colours.
Casa Batlló is one of today's great wonders, making it an absolute must-see in Barcelona.

Museums in Barcelona

Barcelona is home to some of the most fascinating museums in the world, showcasing everything from art and history to science and technology. From the iconic Sagrada Familia to the incredible Museu Picasso and Fundació Joan Miró, there's no shortage of fascinating museums showcasing everything from art and design to science and technology. Let's explore a few of the best.

'El Call' in the Gothic Quarter

When visiting the Barcelona museum, 'El Call' in the Gothic Quarter has some of the best things to experience. Steeped in vast history and culture, this art museum has a storied area bordered by various streets that offer endless exploration opportunities.


Visitors will appreciate learning more about old Jewish lives, which can be done by visiting MUHBA El Call with unique artefacts like ritual lamps, gravestones, and 'Salomó ben Adret de Barcelona (1235-1310).
El triunfo de una ortodoxia’ exhibition. A trip here wouldn't be complete without paying a visit to one of Europe's oldest synagogues - genuinely priceless.


'El Call' is undoubtedly an incredible destination that should not be missed!

Park_Guell_BarcelonaPark Güell

Park Güell is one of the best things you can experience while in Gràcia. If you want to end your Gaudí experience on a high note, Park Güell, located on Carmel Hill, should be top of your list.
It offers spectacular expansive views of the city of Barcelona, serpentine benches and mosaics featured on postcards and in movies, and colonnades, fountains and sculptures meticulously engineered by the architect.


Once you've filled your senses with the beauty of Park Güell, don't forget to pay a visit to his House-Museum where he lived from 1906-1926. Furniture and decorative items designed by him are available for viewing as well. Park Güell is a great way to conclude any Gaudí experience.

Want To Enjoy Sun Shine On Beaches?

From stretches of white sand to bustling boardwalks, Barcelona offers something for everyone when it comes to beaches. Whether you're looking for the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun or a lively spot packed with beach bars and activities, you can find it in Barcelona. Let's delve into the best beaches in the city, exploring their unique characteristics and what they offer visitors. So grab your sunscreen and sunglasses – it's time to explore Barcelona's beautiful beaches!

Barceloneta_BeachBarceloneta Beach

Barcelona's 4.5km of coastline within its city limits offers everything you want or need for a perfect beach getaway. Barceloneta Beach is undoubtedly one of the best in Barcelona, with plenty of activities to keep yourself busy such as volleyball, surfing, and swimming in the Mediterranean.


If relaxation sounds more like your thing, then Barceloneta Beach has you covered with beach bars (chiringuitos) offering fantastic snacks and delicious drinks for the perfect tan-getting opportunity!
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere created by their spot-on music when nighttime comes around!


Don't miss Barceloneta Beach when visiting Barcelona to make sure you have a fantastic beach experience.

Nova Mar Bella Beach

Nova Mar is a famous beach in Barcelona located near La Barceloneta. It features golden sand and clear shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Nova Bar Bella beach, also known as Barceloneta beach, is one of Barcelona's most popular and well-known beaches. It is located in the Barceloneta neighbourhood and is just a short and pleasant walk from the city centre. It offers a wide range of activities and facilities for visitors.

The beach stretches for over a kilometre and is lined with restaurants, bars, and beach clubs, making it a great place to relax and soak up the sun during the day and party at night. Visitors can also enjoy various water sports, such as jet skiing, paddle boarding, and kayaking, or take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.

One of the highlights of Nova Bar Bella is the W Hotel, which sits on the beach, offering a unique and luxurious experience. The hotel has a rooftop pool and lounge area that offers panoramic views of the beach and the city, making it a perfect spot to watch the sunset.

For those interested in history, the Maremagnum Museum is located close by. The museum showcases the story of the history of the sea and the port of Barcelona and the role of the sea in the city's development.
Nova Bar Bella beach also has several beach volleyball courts, often used for local and international competitions.

Nova Bar Bella beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Barcelona's beaches and nightlife. With its stunning location, wide range of activities and facilities and unparalleled views of the city and sea, it is the perfect place to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Picturesque_houses_of_Barri_GoticBarri Gotic

Explore the charming and historic Gothic Quarter, where the past comes alive in the maze of winding medieval streets and sun-soaked plazas. This is the most well-preserved Gothic neighbourhood on the continent, with ancient Roman walls still visible in certain areas. As you wander through the picturesque streets, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. The Gothic Quarter is also the city's political heart, boasting grand public squares and impressive medieval buildings. Take a stroll through this unique and fascinating neighbourhood, and discover the rich history of Barcelona.


Plaça del Rei. This small, well-preserved, medieval square lies in the heart of the Barri Gòtic and was once busy with the comings and goings of official visitors and buyers and sellers of flour and hay. It is flanked by the 13th- to 16th-century structures of the Palau Reial (Royal Palace) and the Museu d'Història de la Ciutat. On the square's western side, the Mirador del Rei was used as a watchtower. The Palau de Loctinent, on the left of the mirador (balcony), was the official home of the Viceroy after Catalonia lost its independence in the 16th century.

Palau_de_la_GeneralitatPalau de la Generalitat

The Generalitat de Catalunya is the name of both Catalonia's autonomous government and the building from which it governs. So far, 115 presidents of Catalonia have ruled from its 15th-century Gothic interior, making it one of the few medieval buildings still in continuous use for its original purpose. When Generalitat presidents are in town, they stay next door at the Casa dels Canonges on Carrer del Bisbe. The hanging enclosed walkway joining the two buildings dates from the 1920s and was styled on Venice's Bridge of Sighs.

Plaça de Sant Felip Neri. The pretty square of Sant Felip Neri is entered from the Baixada de Santa Eulàlia, where Barcelona's patron saint met her gruesome death. The square is peaceful, with a central fountain and baroque church, but it has a dark past. The bullet holes on the church's façade next to the infant school are evidence of a massacre of 20 children by Fascist forces in 1938. The Plaça del Pi, with its Gothic masterpiece, the Esglèsia Santa María del Pi, is an excellent place to take a break. The foundations of nearby Carrer de Petrixol were laid in 1465, and the street now houses some of the most famous of Barcelona's granjes (pastry and dairy cafés).

Next to Modernism, the Gothic period had the most significant influence on Barcelona's architecture. If you plan a holiday in Barcelona, make sure an afternoon's walk around the 13th- to 15th-century buildings, grand plazas and narrow streets of the city's Barri Gòtic is on your itinerary.
Barri Gòtic is just 45 minutes from our premier campsite in Spain.

Casa Mila

Casa Milà, sometimes known as "La Pedrera," is one of Barcelona's best experiences. Constructed by the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi between 1906 and 1912, Casa Mila has declared a UNESCO World antique-Heritage Site in 1984 and served as the headquarters for Fundacio Catalunya de La Pedrera.


A visit to Casa Mila will give you an appreciation of architecture not seen elsewhere. It will take you back to the period when Gaudi lived and worked on his various works of art and buildings.

Tourist_in_BarcelonaHow To Make Your Visit Memorable?

If you want to find Barcelona's secrets, head off the beaten path and find hidden gems that tourists often overlook. Visit lesser-known parks, local markets and small cafes to enjoy Barcelona's authenticity. Walk along the streets that haven't been featured in postcards to get a natural feel for the city. Explore the local architecture, observe the creative street art, and chat with the locals to truly understand the spirit of Barcelona. Make sure you take lots of photos to keep your walking tour memorable.


No matter what you choose to do, Barcelona is sure to make your visit one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life.

Do and Don'ts in Barcelona?

If you want a quick guide to getting the best out of a day in Barcelona, here's a short list of dos and don'ts you can grab and go.

Do:

  • Explore the old city, including Gaudi's iconic architecture and traditional restaurants.
  • Visit the beautiful beaches and take a dip in the Mediterranean.
  • Take advantage of Barcelona's vibrant nightlife and explore its diverse music and entertainment venues.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine, and don't forget to try some of the city's famous tapas.
  • Shop in one of Barcelona's designer stores or vintage markets.
  • Take a day trip to nearby towns and explore their attractions, such as the Montserrat Monastery or the Sagrada Familia.

Don't:

  • Be disrespectful to locals. Barcelona is a proud city whose residents appreciate visitors who respect their culture and traditions.
  • Ignore pickpockets in busy tourist areas – always keep your valuables secure with you at all times.
  • Neglect to bring sunscreen and sunglasses. Barcelona is a sunny city, especially during the summer months.
  • Forget about your budget – Barcelona is a city of indulgences, and it can be easy to blow your budget if you're not careful.
  • Skip out on exploring the city's hidden gems. Barcelona is full of surprises, and exploring off the beaten path can be a great way to discover something new.
  • Avoid the tapas bars – trying traditional Spanish tapas is essential to a visit to Barcelona.
  • Skip out on sampling the local wines. Barcelona is a great place to try unique Spanish wines and even learn about the wine-making process.
  • Forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, as many of the city's top attractions require a lot of walking.
  • Leave valuables in plain sight, as pickpocketing is a common problem in the city's tourist areas.
  • Forget to pack sunscreen, as the city can be sweltering in the summer.
  • Forget to try the local wine and cava, as Catalonia is known for its wine production.
  • Forget to be mindful of the local culture and customs, such as taking off your shoes when entering a church or cathedral.

Conclusion

Barcelona has something for everyone, from its stunning beaches to its fascinating history. Whether you are wondering about adventure or relaxation, you can find it in the vibrant Barri Gotic neighbourhood.
To make your visit truly unforgettable, explore some of Barcelona's hidden gems and don't forget to try some of the local cuisine and wines.
Whether you are looking for culture, art, or entertainment, Barcelona has it all - discover its unique charm!
So, don't wait and start planning your next trip to Barcelona today.


Experience the wonders of this majestic city and enjoy the best of what this beautiful destination has to offer.


Happy travels!