The 13 Best Things to Do in Barcelona in 2023
- Skip-the-Line Admission Ticket
- Sagrada Familia Entry Ticket with Audio Guide
- Park Güell Admission Ticket
- Montjuïc Cable Car Roundtrip Ticket
- Flamenco Show at City Hall Theater
- Casa Milà Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio Guide
- Casa Batlló Entry with Self-Audioguide Tour
- Camp Nou and FC Barcelona Museum
- Park Guell Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access
- Hola Barcelona Public Transport Travel Card
- Port of Barcelona Eco Catamaran Cruise
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour 1 or 2-Day Ticket
- 24 or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
The 13 Best Things to Do in Barcelona in 2023
Welcome to the vibrant city of Barcelona! This bustling metropolis is a cultural and architectural marvel that is sure to leave you in awe. With its rich history, lively nightlife, and stunning sights, Barcelona is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. To help you make the most of your time here, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the top tours and activities that you simply can’t miss. From skip-the-line admission tickets to the famous Sagrada Familia, to a guided tour of Park Güell and even a Flamenco Show at City Hall Theater, there’s something for everyone in Barcelona. Join us as we explore the city’s most iconic attractions and discover what makes Barcelona truly special.
1. Skip-the-Line Admission Ticket
Discover the wonders of the Mediterranean and tropical seas at the Barcelona Aquarium! With your priority access ticket, you’ll have the opportunity to witness over 11,000 sea creatures from 450 different species in their 35 Mediterranean and tropical tanks. Marvel at the magnificent Oceanarium, where a transparent 80-meter-long tunnel lets you walk among fascinating species such as sharks, gilt heads, morays, and ocean sunfish. Explore the permanent exhibitions, Planeta Aqua and Explora!, to learn about the important role water plays in our planet and let your kids discover the underwater world through all five senses. After your visit, take a break and enjoy the café, shop, and other services available at the aquarium. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the world’s most important marine leisure and education center – book your priority access ticket to the Barcelona Aquarium today!
2. Sagrada Familia Entry Ticket with Audio Guide
Uncover the beauty and grandeur of the iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Admire the intricate details and Art Nouveau architecture of this historic basilica that continues to evolve to this day. With your Sagrada Familia admission ticket, you’ll get a free downloadable audio guide to enhance your experience and help you learn about its history and significance. Enjoy exploring this masterpiece at your own pace and make the most of your time at Sagrada Familia. Please note that access to the basilica is only allowed at the selected time or up to 15 minutes thereafter, so be sure to arrive at the “online booking” entrance on Carrer de la Marina on time. Dress appropriately, as shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts are not allowed. Don’t forget to bring headphones and a charged smartphone to make the most of the audio guide. Check the opening hours before you go, with the last entry of the day allowing you to stay for 45 minutes only. Embark on a journey to uncover the history, beauty, and wonder of Sagrada Familia, the iconic masterpiece in Barcelona.
3. Park Güell Admission Ticket
Discover Park Güell and immerse yourself in Antoni Gaudí’s vibrant world of mosaic art. With your timed admission ticket, you can take your time and explore the park at your leisure. Discover the colorful Dragon Stairway, marvel at the intricate details of the Hypostyle Room, and take in the stunning views from the park’s viewing points. Park Güell was originally commissioned by Eusebi Güell, a Catalan entrepreneur, who wanted to recreate a British-style residential park on Muntanya Pelada (Bare Mountain). Today, it is recognized as an artistic monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and stroll through the lush Austria Gardens, take your time and make memories that will last a lifetime. With the convenience of a mobile voucher, there’s no need to worry about printing tickets or waiting in line. Please note that you must enter the park at your booked time slot but can stay as long as you like after. The park can be reached by metro at Vallcarca or Lesseps Metro Stations. However, it may take up to 20 minutes of uphill walking to reach the closest entrance from the metro stations on both Carrer d’Olot and Sant Josep de la Muntanya Street. Don’t forget to bring your headphones and charged smartphone to fully enjoy the experience. Park Güell’s operating hours vary throughout the year, with last entry times of 9:30 PM from May 4 to September 6, 8:00 PM from September 7 to October 24 and March 29 to May 3, and 6:15 PM from October 25 to March 28.
4. Montjuïc Cable Car Roundtrip Ticket
Embrace the magic of Barcelona on this unforgettable ride on the recently refurbished Montjuïc Cable Car. Travel in style to the hill of Montjuïc, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city from the sky. With small cabins accommodating only 8 seated passengers, you’ll enjoy a truly exclusive experience. Once you arrive at the Castell de Montjuïc, take your time to explore the stunning sights, including the castle and the surrounding grounds, before making your return journey. This is a unique opportunity to see Barcelona from a different perspective and create memories that will last a lifetime. Meeting point To start your adventure, simply present your voucher at the Montjuic Cable Car ticket office. Important information Before you go, please keep in mind that if you have purchased tickets for more than one person, all guests must arrive at the cable car station together and use the service at the same time. The opening hours vary depending on the season, so be sure to check the schedule before you arrive.
5. Flamenco Show at City Hall Theater
Discover the passionate and captivating world of flamenco with a performance at the former Teatro de Barcelona. Soak up the unique party atmosphere as you experience an authentic Spanish art form, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled inside Barcelona City Hall, the former Teatro de Barcelona is a stunning 19th-century theater with breathtaking features, including light-framed stages, plush velvet curtains, and original stage machinery. Be entertained by some of the most talented flamenco artists in Spain, including dancers Ivan Alcalà, Raúl Ortega, Patricia Dominguez, and Yolanda Cortés. Listen to seductive singers Antonio el Mantecao, Miguel de la Tolea, La Tana, and Josefa G. Contreras. Marvel at flamenco guitarists Oliver Haldon and Eduardo Cortés, as well as percussionists Joni C. Sanchez and Jacobo C. Sanchez. Experience the raw emotion of improvised “jam sessions” with classic flamenco styles like the fast-paced “Bulerías,” soulful guitar “solos,” and powerful singing. Meeting Point: Meet at the City Hall Theatre. To get there, take Metro lines L1 and L2 to “Universitat” station, lines L1 and L3 to “Catalunya” station, lines L3, L4, and L2 to “Passeig de Gràcia” station, or take the train (FGC) or suburban rail (Rodalies Renfe) to “Catalunya” station. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable opportunity to experience the vibrant energy and raw emotion of flamenco in the heart of Barcelona!
6. Casa Milà Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio Guide
Explore the legacy of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi with a unique and exciting tour of the iconic Casa Milà (La Pedrera). Immerse yourself in Gaudi’s architectural innovations with a skip-the-line audio tour that takes you straight inside this masterpiece, built at the pinnacle of his career. Discover the eye-catching staircases and corkscrew chimneys that have become symbols of Gaudi’s Barcelona, as you admire their sinuous forms from the rooftop. Step into the attic space to see the Espai Gaudi exhibition, the only exhibition dedicated to the life and work of this famous architect. Learn about his groundbreaking innovations through scale models, building plans, historic photographs, and videos. Experience Casa Milà in a truly innovative way with a pair of mixed reality glasses, available for all tour participants. Meet at La Pedrera (Casa Milà) and be prepared to be amazed. Please note that in the event of rain, the roof terrace will be closed for safety reasons, which will not constitute grounds for a full or partial refund of the admission ticket.
7. Casa Batlló Entry with Self-Audioguide Tour
Embark on an unforgettable adventure at Casa Batlló and immerse yourself in the modernist genius of Antoni Gaudi. This unique and interactive experience combines cutting-edge technology with the artistry of Gaudi to bring his masterpiece to life in a way you’ve never experienced before. Discover the two new immersive rooms, the Gaudí Dome and the Gaudí Cube, where you’ll be transported into a world of seemingly impossible projections, binaural sound, motion sensors, and other sensory experiences that will leave you in awe. Listen to a script available in 15 languages and watch as magical paintings come to life as you approach. Learn about the history and significance of this stunning building, one of the jewels of the Modernism art movement. Start your journey at Casa Batlló and be prepared to be transported into a world unlike any other. And, if you need to store your luggage or strollers, there is a checkroom available. However, please note that at busy times there may be long lines to enter the attraction.
8. Camp Nou and FC Barcelona Museum
Discover the heart and soul of FC Barcelona at Camp Nou, the iconic home stadium of the legendary soccer team. Embark on a tour that takes you back in time, retracing the footsteps of the club’s legendary players and reliving their greatest moments. Enjoy panoramic views of the stadium and learn about the history of FC Barcelona as you tour through its hallowed halls. Visit the accompanying museum and immerse yourself in the brand new audiovisual multimedia area, complete with large-format interactive walls and a wide collection of objects that reveal the history and values of the club. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the passion of Barça up close and in person. Meet at the ticket office at the FC Barcelona Museum to start your tour. Please note: For security reasons, large bags and luggage are not allowed at Camp Nou. Also, due to matches, training sessions, or special events, the club reserves the right to change the schedule, routes, or close off parts of the museum tour. You will be informed before your visit. The experience may not be available during La Liga or Spanish Cup matches, but the museum will be open up to 3 hours before the match with a stadium visit from the second tier included.
9. Park Guell Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Access
Embark on a journey of discovery and soak in the beauty of Park Guell, one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks. With a knowledgeable guide and priority access, you will have the opportunity to witness the harmonious blend of bright colors, magical architecture, and lush greenery. Get up close and personal with the style of Trencadis, a unique mosaic created from broken ceramic pieces, and see the genius of Antoni Gaudi come to life in every corner of the park. Pay homage to Gaudi’s artistic brilliance at the Gaudi House Museum and climb to the Three Cross Hill viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona. Meet at the designated meeting point, where your guide will be waiting for you. The tour is available in English, German, Spanish, and French. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited. Please note that the park is located on a hill, so be prepared for a lot of walking.
10. Hola Barcelona Public Transport Travel Card
Explore Barcelona with ease and flexibility by hopping on and off the metro, buses, trams, and suburban trains with a public transport ticket. Choose between 48, 72, 96, or 120-hour ticket options to fit the length of your trip and discover the city at your own pace. With unlimited travel for 2 days or more, you’ll save time and money as you journey through Barcelona and its surrounding areas. Exchange your voucher at a Tourist Information Office and make as many trips as you like on the metro, TMB buses, FGC urban railway, Montjuïc funicular, TRAM tram, and Rodalies de Catalunya regional railway. Your public transport ticket is valid for consecutive hours after the validation date, and a pass for the Barcelona airport line is included. Note: Children under 4 travel for free and the card allows unlimited journeys during the validity period. Start your Barcelona adventure today!
11. Port of Barcelona Eco Catamaran Cruise
Embark on a unique journey through the waters of Barcelona and admire the city’s iconic landmarks and impressive yachts from a new perspective. Join a relaxing catamaran cruise, departing from the city’s Port Vell, and enjoy breathtaking views while sipping on a drink. The eco-certified catamaran provides a quiet and smooth sailing experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Mediterranean. Start your journey from the City Sailing Barcelona Tickets Office and embark on an unforgettable adventure. With a focus on sustainability, the catamaran is officially recognized by Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle, ensuring a responsible and eco-friendly experience. Please note that the catamaran is wheelchair accessible, however, the restroom facilities are not adapted. In the event of adverse weather conditions, the tour operator reserves the right to switch ships to ensure the tour continues as planned. Book now to set sail on a serene and picturesque journey through the heart of Barcelona.
12. Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour 1 or 2-Day Ticket
Discover the vibrant and rich culture of Barcelona with a hop-on hop-off tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. Explore the world-famous Sagrada Familia, admire the unique mosaic-covered buildings of Park Guell, stroll through the Medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, and experience the heart of Barcelona nightlife at La Rambla. With a choice of 2 different routes and 40 stops, you’ll have the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace. Climb aboard an open-top double-decker bus and experience the city’s beauty from a unique perspective. The tour provides the perfect opportunity to visit some of the city’s most famous landmarks, from the largest Roman Catholic church in the world to the Picasso Museum. You can start and end the tour at any of the allocated stops, so you’re free to design your own itinerary. The blue Barcelona Bus Turístic buses are waiting for you, ready to take you on a journey through the city’s streets and alleys. With a 2-hour length for both the Red and Blue lines, and flexible access for up to 3 months from the date you select, you’ll have plenty of time to see everything you want to see. Just remember, pets and smoking are not allowed. So come and discover the magic of Barcelona today!
13. 24 or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Embark on a flexible and exciting sightseeing tour of Barcelona with the hop-on hop-off bus. Explore the city at your own pace, hopping on and off at any of the designated stops to see the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell, and Port Olímpic. With two routes included in your ticket, you’ll be able to see more of the city in a single trip. Board the double-decker bus, equipped with audio commentary and a complimentary map, and set your own pace as you explore the city. The tour operates daily with departures from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with a frequency of approximately 30 minutes between buses. Be sure to bring your passport or ID card, as well as comfortable shoes, for a memorable sightseeing experience. Start your tour at any of the designated stops by showing your voucher to the guide on board.
Things to Do in Barcelona
Barcelona, Spain is a vibrant and exciting city located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It is the second largest city in the country and the capital of Catalonia. Barcelona has a long and interesting history that dates back to Roman times and it has grown to become a major cultural center in Europe. The city is renowned for its unique architecture, its nightlife, its art and culture scene, and its beaches. Barcelona is also a popular destination for tourists, with millions visiting each year to experience all that the city has to offer.
History of Barcelona
Barcelona was founded by the Romans in the year 15 BC as a strategic trading port. The city was called Barcino by the Romans and was part of the Roman province of Hispania Tarraconensis. During the Middle Ages, the city was an important center for trade and commerce and it grew in size and population. However, it was during the 19th century that Barcelona’s population exploded, with waves of immigrants from other parts of Spain and from around the world moving to the city. The city’s population boomed from about 140,000 inhabitants in 1850 to more than 1.6 million by 1900.
Today, Barcelona is a major cultural and economic hub in Europe and one of the most popular cities in the world for tourism. It is home to more than 1.6 million people and is a bustling metropolis with a rich and vibrant culture. The city is renowned for its unique architecture, which is a blend of Gothic, Baroque and Modernist styles. It is also known for its world-famous art and music scenes, its lively nightlife, and its beautiful beaches. Barcelona is definitely a city worth visiting for anyone looking for a fun and exciting experience.
What to Do in Barcelona
Barcelona offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for culture and history, shopping, food, nightlife, or outdoor activities, there’s something here for you. Here are some of the top activities and attractions in Barcelona:
Visit Gaudí’s Works
No visit to Barcelona is complete without seeing some of the works of Antoni Gaudí, one of the city’s most famous architects. Gaudí’s most famous works include La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera, Parc Güell, and Palau Güell. All of these magnificent structures are a must-see when visiting Barcelona and they provide an amazing glimpse into Gaudí’s unique vision of architecture.
Explore La Rambla
La Rambla is one of Barcelona’s most iconic streets. It is a long avenue lined with shops, restaurants, street performers, and outdoor cafes. It is the perfect place to stroll around during the day or evening and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
Check Out Barcelona’s Beaches
Barcelona has some stunning beaches located along its coastline. The most popular beach is Barceloneta Beach, which is located just steps away from La Rambla. It offers golden sand, clear blue waters, and stunning views of the city skyline. Other nearby beaches include Nova Icaria Beach, Bogatell Beach, and Mar Bella Beach.
Experience Barcelona’s Nightlife
Barcelona has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and pubs to explore. Some of the most popular spots include Razzmatazz, Pacha Barcelona, Opium Mar, Sutton Club, and Shoko Beach Club. There are also plenty of pubs and tapas bars located throughout the city that are perfect for an evening out with friends.
Take a Tour of Camp Nou
Camp Nou is home to one of the most famous football clubs in the world: FC Barcelona. A tour of Camp Nou is a must for any football fan visiting Barcelona. You’ll get to explore the stadium and go behind-the-scenes to see where the players warm up before the match and how they get ready for a big game.
Visit Park Güell
Park Güell is one of Gaudí’s most impressive works in Barcelona. It is located on a hillside overlooking the city and it consists of gardens, sculptures, fountains, and incredible views of Barcelona. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon exploring its winding paths and taking in the unique architecture.
Explore Montjuïc Castle
Montjuïc Castle is an impressive medieval fortress located on top of Montjuïc Hill overlooking Barcelona. It was originally built to defend against foreign invaders but now it serves as a museum where visitors can explore its history and learn about its past as a military outpost.
Shop at La Boqueria Market
La Boqueria Market is one of Barcelona’s most famous food markets. It is located near La Rambla and it offers an amazing selection of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, spices, seafood, and much more. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs or just to wander around and take in the sights and smells of this vibrant market.
Tours in Barcelona
In addition to exploring all that Barcelona has to offer on your own, there are also plenty of tours available to make your experience even more memorable. Here are two popular tours that you should consider when visiting Barcelona:
Discover Gaudi Tour
The Discover Gaudi Tour provides an in-depth look at some of Antonio Gaudí’s most famous works in Barcelona. This tour includes a visit to La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera, Parc Güell, and Palau Güell as well as insight into Gaudí’s life and work from knowledgeable guides. You’ll also get panoramic views of the city from the top of La Sagrada Familia as you explore this amazing structure up close. Book a Discover Gaudi Tour here.
Barcelona City Tour
The Barcelona City Tour provides an introduction to some of the top sights in Barcelona including La Rambla, Montjuïc Castle, Park Güell, Camp Nou Stadium, La Boqueria Market, Barceloneta Beach, and much more. This tour also includes a professional guide who will provide interesting commentary along the way as you explore all that Barcelona has to offer. Book a Barcelona City Tour here.
Conclusion
Barcelona is an amazing city full of culture and history as well as plenty of activities for tourists to enjoy. From exploring Gaudí’s works to visiting Park Güell or checking out La Boqueria Market, there are endless things to do here that will make your trip unforgettable. And with plenty of tours available that provide insight into all that Barcelona has to offer, you can ensure that you experience all that this amazing city has to offer in style!