What to Do in Barcelona: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Barcelona, a city of stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and coastal charm, offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveller. Famous for its iconic landmarks, artistic heritage, and beautiful beaches, Barcelona is a destination brimming with possibilities. Whether you're wondering what to do in Barcelona in 1 day or planning a longer visit, this guide will help you uncover what to see and do in Barcelona, from the must-sees to the truly unique experiences.
Events found for Barcelona
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RecommendedGran Gala Flamenco: Teatro Poliorama
Barcelona, Teatro Poliorama
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Los Tarantos: Traditional Flamenco Show in Barcelona
Barcelona, Los Tarantos
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Barcelona Classic Gala
Barcelona, Basílica de la Mercè
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1 h -
Cor Infantil OC & Maria Guinand
Barcelona, Palau de la Música Catalana
Venues found for Barcelona
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Teatro Poliorama
Barcelona, Spain
The Teatro Poliorama is situated on the Ramblas in the beautiful and lively city center of Barcelona.
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Palau de la Música Catalana
Barcelona, Spain
The Concert Hall of Barcelona's Palau de la Música Catalana is a magical space, conceived and designed as an enormous glass box crowned with a large central skylight.
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Auditori de Barcelona
Barcelona, Spain
L'Auditori, covering an impressive 42,000 square meters, is a modern masterpiece by architect Rafael Moneo. Centrally located on Plaça de les Glories, this venue is celebrated as the epicenter of the city's music scene.
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El Teatre més Petit del Món
Barcelona, Spain
The World's Smallest Theater (El Teatre més Petits del Món) offers 19th century ambiance and charm perfectly suited to the music of Chopin, Beethoven, and Mozart.
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Basílica de la Mercè
Barcelona, Spain
The Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy was built between 1765 and 1775 by Josep Mas i Dordal. Located in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, it is one of the city's most representative churches.
Popular Topics in Barcelona
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Concerts in Barcelona
Classical Music in a Mediterranean Masterpiece
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Palau de la Musica Catalana
Concerts and Tickets
Where Music and Architecture Converge
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Concerts and Classical Music in Barcelona
Enjoy the best classical and traditional music in Barcelona. Buy your tickets quickly and securely.
Tickets for Concerts in Barcelona
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Opera Barcelona
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International artists in world-class performances
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Barcelona Church Concerts
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Inspiring performances in Barcelona
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Top Experiences in Barcelona
Book one of the experiences that other customers have liked and recommended:
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Barcelona walking tour Picasso
A guided tour of some of the key places where Picasso spent his time when he lived in Barcelona. You'll discover the city as it was in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, along with the history of the famous painter, through anecdotes about his friends and the events that influenced his life and artistic career. The tour explores the artist's Barcelona in depth. An expert guide will accompany you through the bohemian Barcelona of Picasso's youth and take you on a tour of the world‐famous Museu Picasso.During this 2‐hour walking tour you'll have the opportunity to admire different key places: the Modernist restaurant Els Quatre Gats, meeting place for intellectuals and artists of the day; the friezes on the facade of Collegi d'Arquitectes, the only open‐air piece of artwork by Picasso; Llotja de Mar, the art school where he studied; Carrer Avinyó, a street which the artist frequented and was a source of inspiration for his famous painting Les Demoiselles d'Avignon; the Picasso Museum, which is home to the most important collection of works from his early life when he was studying art.
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Barcelona Gaudí & Modernism Tour
Antoni Gaudí’s incredible buildings are a monument not just to his distinctive genius but to the spirit of a generation. The 19th‐century Catalan Renaissance saw the cultural rebirth of a nation that reached its peak with the Modernisme movement. Gaudí and his contemporaries took the spirit of the times and mixed modern techniques with traditional craftsmanship to enrich Barcelona. Ever since then, millions have enjoyed this beautiful architectural heritage and visited the masterpieces of Modernisme. This two‐hour walking tour explores the beautiful Eixample district where the best examples can be easily discovered on foot, leading to the unfinished masterpiece of Sagrada Família. This unique building is a bridge between the twin historic highlights of Catalan culture: the medieval merchant city and the 19th‐century industrial metropolis. It combines tremendous views over the city Gaudí loved with fascinating insights into his creative mind. No visit to Barcelona is complete without this UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its breathtaking spires. The tour is much more than a series of photo opportunities (although don’t forget your camera!). We dig deep into the roots of the movement and explore the social unrest and political issues that the glossy guidebooks ignore. The result is an unforgettable portrait of one of the world’s greatest cities and a tribute to some of its most talented designers. *Average tour length. The independent guides with whom we work have your best interests in mind; while the tour usually includes the sites and stories above and lasts this long, your tour may vary depending on what your guide thinks is best for your group! Take advantage of our group discount of 10% for groups of 10 or more!
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Luis de Arquer: Solo Chopin in Barcelona
Explore the beauty of piano music at El Teatre més Petit del Món in Barcelona, where masterworks from Frederic Chopin come to life in this incredible performance. Solo Chopin, is the tribute of the pianist and composer Luis de Arquer to Frédéric Chopin, a piano recital that immerses us in some of the most beautiful works of his music, which even after more than 200 years, is still as close to our emotions as then thanks to its great beauty, romanticism and sensitivity. The Teatre més Petit del Món, is one more of those small halls where Chopin himself preferred to appear before a brief and select audience, where it was possible that singular communion that is lived through each sound…
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Barcelona & Gaudi. Regular Tour
If you want to truly appreciate the architecture of Barcelona, swap the run‐of‐the‐mill guided tours for a tour led by an architect. This tour offers insights into the work of Antoni Gaudí and other Modernist masters that you won't get anywhere else as you visit such landmarks as Casa Lleó Morera by Domènech i Montaner, Casa Amatller by Puig i Cadafalch, and, of course, Casa Calvet, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà by Gaudí.
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Barcelona Historic Guided Tour
Barcelona boasts a diverse and complex history that spans over 2,000 years, which includes Roman and medieval periods, a flourishing Renaissance, and the modernist movement. The city's unique historical timeline makes it a captivating destination for history enthusiast The Gothic Quarter is one of the best‐preserved medieval quarters in Europe, featuring narrow streets, hidden squares, and historic buildings. It provides a unique opportunity to delve into the city's medieval past. Catalan Identity: Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, a region with a unique cultural and historical identity by its own.
Must‐See Attractions: The Classics of What to Do in Barcelona
If you’re wondering what to do in Barcelona, start with the city’s iconic landmarks. Begin your journey at the majestic Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. Be sure to climb one of the towers for panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Another must see in Barcelona is Park Güell, another of Gaudí’s famous creations, offering whimsical architecture, vibrant mosaics, and a unique blend of nature and design. For art lovers, the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miró Foundation provide exceptional collections of Catalan art.
A stroll down La Rambla is undeniably one of the best things to do in Barcelona. This bustling boulevard, lined with shops, street performers, and cafés, leads you through the heart of the city. Be sure to explore the vibrant market of La Boqueria for a taste of local life.
What to Do in Barcelona by Day and Night
During the day, take a walk-through Barcelona’s charming neighbourhoods, like the Gothic Quarter, with narrow streets and hidden squares. Head to Barceloneta Beach for Mediterranean vibes or visit Parc de la Ciutadella for a peaceful afternoon.
Wondering what to do in Barcelona at night? Enjoy a walk through the illuminated Gothic Quarter or along Port Vell’s promenade. For a cultural experience, attend a concert at the Palau de la Música Catalana, an architectural gem and one of the best Barcelona concert venues. Alternatively, enjoy a classical concert at the Basílica de la Mercè or the Auditori de Barcelona.
If you prefer a relaxed evening, dine at one of Barcelona’s tapas bars or enjoy a drink on a rooftop terrace, offering stunning views. These activities help you experience Barcelona both by day and night.
Barcelona Tips and Attractions
Barcelona offers something special in every season. Whether you’re exploring what to do in Barcelona in 2 days or planning a longer stay, the city's charm never fades. During warmer months, enjoy outdoor concerts, beach days, and vibrant festivals, while winter offers quieter streets and a serene atmosphere.
Don't miss Barcelona events like the Festa Major de Gràcia in August, with its creative street decorations, or the Mobile World Congress in February, one of the world’s largest tech conferences. The Primavera Sound festival in spring adds to the city's vibrant calendar, ensuring there's always something new to discover.
Unique Things to Do in Barcelona
A must do in Barcelona is exploring the city’s offbeat attractions. Visit the lesser-known Bunkers del Carmel for breathtaking views over the city, or wander through the vibrant neighbourhood of El Raval, where you can experience the city's multicultural atmosphere.
Explore the beautiful hillside village of Montjuïc, taking a cable car to the top where you'll find the iconic Montjuïc Castle, stunning gardens, and art galleries like the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC).
For a truly different perspective, take a bike ride through the less touristy parts of the city, such as the charming streets of Gràcia or the industrial district of Poblenou, where modern architecture meets historical elements.
Exploring Barcelona’s Neighborhoods
Wondering what to do in Barcelona in 1 day? Start by exploring the historic centre, visiting the famous La Sagrada Família, then wander through the labyrinthine streets of the Gothic Quarter. If you have more time, head to the bohemian district of El Born or the trendy neighbourhood of Eixample.
El Born is a charming area filled with quaint cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. It’s also home to the impressive Santa Maria del Mar church, a stunning example of Catalan Gothic architecture. In contrast, the Eixample district showcases modernist masterpieces like Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, both designed by Antoni Gaudí. Barcelona’s neighbourhoods are diverse, each revealing a different side of the city’s history and character.
Food and Dining in Barcelona
When deciding what to do in Barcelona, be sure to indulge in its delicious culinary offerings. Barcelona’s food scene is a treat for food lovers. Don’t miss dishes like paella, bombas (fried potato balls), or the ever-popular tapas like patatas bravas and croquetas.
For a special dining experience, head to the Michelin-starred restaurant Moments or enjoy Mediterranean seafood at La Barceloneta. For something more casual, try a local taverna or enjoy a leisurely meal at El Quim de la Boqueria in the famous La Boqueria market. And don’t forget to end your meal with crema catalana, a local dessert similar to crème brûlée.
Why Barcelona is Worth Visiting
Barcelona captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, Mediterranean charm, and rich cultural offerings. From the grandeur of La Sagrada Família to the intimate atmosphere of its charming neighbourhoods, there’s always something new to discover in this vibrant city. Whether you’re wandering through the picturesque streets of the Gothic Quarter or relaxing on the sandy shores of Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona’s charm is undeniable.
As you think about what to do in Barcelona, make sure to also check out Classictic for tickets to the city’s top classical performances, adding a memorable cultural experience to your visit. Barcelona’s combination of history, art, food, and vibrant local life ensures it remains one of the most dynamic destinations in the world.
