Top things to do in Barcelona
Attractions, tours, and activities in Barcelona
Recommended museums in Barcelona
Where to find art and culture in Barcelona
Barcelona: the city's best neighborhoods
Find a great area to stay in Barcelona
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Ciutat Vella
0.5 miles from downtown
Ciutat Vella ("Old City") is comprised of several neighborhoods: Barri Gòtic, Raval, El Born and Barceloneta (all in more detail in separate descriptions). As a whole, the district’s characteristic features include narrow, winding streets that reach from Las Ramblas to the coast.
Places to stay from $13 a night
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Eixample
0.4 miles from downtown
L’Eixample’s large, grid-like avenues (modeled after New York) are easy to navigate. Passeig de Gràcia (in the center) is a tourist hot-spot, with Gaudí's Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, as well as Puig i Cadafalch's Casa Amatller within easy reach. Carrer Balmes is a safe and tolerant area for all kinds of travelers.
Places to stay from $9 a night
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Gràcia
1.3 miles from downtown
There’s a youthful energy in this dynamic area. Plaça de la Virreina, Plaça del Sol and Plaça de Rius i Taulet are charming squares to relax in and people-watch. Take a stroll through Gaudí’s Park Güell, with its unique architectural spaces that offer wonderful views of the city.
Places to stay from $14 a night
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Sants-Montjuïc
1.4 miles from downtown
This district retains a lot of its traditional character. Tourist hot-spots surround Montjuïc Hill, next to Plaça Espanya. Visit the Joan Miró Foundation and Catalonia National Art Museum (MNAC) in the Palau Nacional. The 17th-century Montjuïc Castle stands on the hill, and there are also the colors of the Magic Fountain to enjoy below.
Places to stay from $9 a night
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Sarrià-St. Gervasi
1.7 miles from downtown
Accessible only by train or bus, this primarily residential district has a range of local restaurants. For families traveling with younger children, the CosmoCaixa science museum showcases a range of exhibitions. Les Planes, an outdoor picnic area, is nestled on the farthest edge of the district.
Places to stay from $10 a night
About Barcelona
Including tips for the best time to visit Barcelona
Located on the coast of Catalonia, Barcelona is a melting pot of cultures, filled with unforgettable architecture, medieval streets, and impressive museums. Its most famous figure, Antoni Gaudí, is the genius behind some of the city’s most incredible monuments. From the twisting, stone façade of Casa Milà to the world-famous Sagrada Familia, the works of this legendary architect can be found all over the city.
In the Gothic Quarter, you’ll find all sorts of historic cafes and tapas bars leading the way to a cathedral protected by gargoyles. Be sure to try Catalonian classics like beef croquettes and salt-cod fritters under this dramatic backdrop, then wash it all down with a refreshing glass of Rioja. The perfect way to end the day is with a walk all the way down the lively, tree-lined boardwalk of La Rambla until you get to the calm port at dusk.
If you’re looking to soak up the year-round sunshine, find a spot on the sand in Barceloneta or a comfy patch of grass in Parc de la Ciutadella. If you have time, take a stadium tour of Camp Nou, climb Carmel Hill for amazing panoramic views, or explore the iconic mosaics of Park Güell – yet another of Gaudí’s amazing creations.
Tonight
From $72 per night
Next weekend
From $191 per night
| Most popular time to visit | October-December |
| Cheapest time to visit | January-March |
| Local currency | € 1 = $1.08 |
| Language | Spanish |
| Average weekend price | $110 per night |
| Average weekday price | $113 per night |
| Average stay | 2 nights |
Points of interest in Barcelona
Stay near the top sightseeing spots in Barcelona
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Camp Nou
2.5 miles from downtown
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Plaça Catalunya
In downtown
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Sagrada Familia
1.2 miles from downtown
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Plaza Espanya
1.4 miles from downtown
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Tibidabo
3.6 miles from downtown
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Passeig de Gracia
0.2 miles from downtown
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Barcelona Cathedral
0.4 miles from downtown
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Palau Sant Jordi
1.9 miles from downtown
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Placa Reial
0.6 miles from downtown
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La Pedrera
0.7 miles from downtown
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Barcelona reviews
What other travelers say about Barcelona
We clearly underestimated how much Barcelona has to offer.
January 28, 2023
We clearly underestimated how much Barcelona has to offer. There is so much of history, interesting architecture, good food and entertainment. Within the 3 days in the city we visited, Gothic Quarter, Sagrada Familia (guided tour with the visit to the Passion Tower), Barcelona Maritime Museum, Magic Fountain, La Rambla, Hop-on Hop-off City Tour and even caught a Football match where Barcelona FC played against Getafe CF. We don‘t consider ourselves as major football fans but we wanted to experience the atmosphere which was extraordinary. Food is flavourful and trying out the any seafood cuisine is a must. We used the metro using a 3 day pass which got us from place to place with convenience. We visited during off peak season and we still had a fantastic time. We will definitely visit Barcelona again!
Barcelona is a photographer's paradise.
January 24, 2023
Barcelona is a photographer's paradise. The city is filled with a rich mix of architectural styles, from the modernist masterpieces of Antoni Gaudí to the medieval Gothic Quarter. One of the must-see locations for any photographer is Park Güell, where Gaudí's iconic mosaic designs and curved stone structures provide endless opportunities for unique and interesting shots. The Sagrada Familia, another one of Gaudí's famous creations, is also a must-visit, with its striking spires and intricate details. The streets of the city are equally as picturesque, with narrow alleyways, colorful buildings, and bustling plazas. The Gothic Quarter, in particular, is a treasure trove of photo opportunities, with its winding streets, charming cafes, and historical landmarks. The Picasso Museum is also a great spot for those interested in capturing artistic inspiration. The beaches and boardwalks along the Mediterranean Sea are also great spots for photography, with the opportunity to capture the beautiful sunsets and the boats passing by. Overall, Barcelona is a fantastic destination for photographers, offering a wide range of subjects and styles to capture. Whether you're interested in architecture, street photography, or landscapes, you're sure to leave the city with a wealth of stunning photos.
Many things to view and visit.
January 24, 2023
Many things to view and visit. Be aware that to enter some places, like Sagrada Familia, you need to book in advance. Clean. Many transportation options. Including night aerport to city center bus express, A1, A2 close to 6 Euros per person, one way. The N buses N17 and N18.
It's my favorite place in the world after my homeland.
January 23, 2023
It's my favorite place in the world after my homeland. 1. There is a convenient commute system of metro and buses. 2. It's lively there but not overwhelming with traffic. 3. You definitely shouldn't judge Spain by Barcelona. It's an autonomous part of the country and you can feel it compared to other cities in Spain. 4. There is always perfect weather except it's a bit too stuffy in July and August. The actual winter (for this region) starts after the NY (it is the time of the lowest temperatures here - approximately +10 C and windy). 5. The local architecture is just a blast. 6. The whole service sector knows English (and most part of the common people you meet on the streets knows it as well).
Barcelona is our favourite city.
January 22, 2023
Barcelona is our favourite city. It has everything: beaches, culture, history and shopping! Walking around the city, whether in the busy centre or the residential districts brings surprises, with interesting shops, quirky restaurants or impressive buildings. Although we have spent so many pleasant visits, we always find something new. Casa Battlo is our favourite building, and Pelai Restaurant in Carrer Tallers is our new favourite restaurant. For snacks and for wonderful chocolate in a stunning setting, try the house next to Casa Battlo in Paseo de Gracia
Lively city with a lot of people without the feeling of...
January 20, 2023
Lively city with a lot of people without the feeling of crowd (NB. in January :) 5/15-20C°) Very beautiful and interesting monuments, new and old next to each other, vibrant day and nightlife. Famous places are situated quite far from each other by foot, but public transportation is easy-to-use with a good coverage. (T10 bunch-ticket used) Sagrada Familia is not just a must-visit church, it is full of mistery, surprise and allusion - and the audio-guide is full of information - absolutely worth to visit and listen to!
Popular places to stay in Barcelona
Stay in some of the best accommodations Barcelona has to offer
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Mediterranean Barcelona Apartments Nou Barris, Barcelona
From $114 per night
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Stay Together Barcelona Apartments Eixample, Barcelona
From $149 per night
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Girona 108 Eixample, Barcelona
From $190 per night
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Gaudint Barcelona Suites Horta-Guinardó, Barcelona
From $298 per night
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Hotel El Palace Barcelona Eixample, Barcelona
From $340 per night
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Other accommodations in Barcelona
Pick from a wide variety of places to stay in Barcelona
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Apartments
From $31 per night
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Villas
From $210 per night
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Serviced Apartments
From $47 per night
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Vacation Homes
From $69 per night
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Guest houses
From $13 per night
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Hostels
From $9 per night
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B&Bs
From $9 per night
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Homestays
From $35 per night
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Boats
From $33 per night
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Self-catering Accommodations
From $9 per night
