In need of little introduction, Spain’s second city has been firmly on the map since the Olympics in 1992 – and it’s easy to see why! Set right on the Med, with a balmy climate and 5km of golden sandy beaches, the city is off to a good start. But take a deeper dive and you’ll find a rich history as well as a thoroughly modern city with a thriving arts and cultural scene – not to mention the gastronomy!
Everything you need to know for 2 or 3 days in Barcelona City and Province There are so many things to do in Barcelona we usually recommend at least 3 nights in the city whether visiting on a short break or as as part of a broader Catalonia touring holiday . At Caminos by Casas Cantabricas , we've been designing and delivering tailor-made holidays in Spain and Portugal for over 40 years which means we’ve got the experience, the local knowledge and the hand-picked hotels, to make sure you get the most out of your visit to this fascinating and beautiful region. Here’s our guide to the top highlights of Barcelona city and province… Barcelona City In need of little introduction, Spain’s second city has been firmly on the map since the Olympics in 1992 – and it’s easy to see why! An integral part of any Catalonia holiday ; set right on the Med, with a balmy climate and 5km of golden sandy beaches, the city is off to a good start. But take a deeper dive and you’ll find a rich history as well as a thoroughly modern city with a thriving arts and cultural scene – not to mention the gastronomy! The port area and Old Town share a fascinating history from the golden era, when the city was a major trading centre both for the Mediterranean and the Americas, whilst the Eixample (New Town) speaks of another boom in late 19th century. Here is where you’ll find the best examples of ‘Modernista’ architecture, unique to Catalonia, designed by Antonio Gaudí and his contemporaries – amazing buildings like the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló and the Palau de la Musica, which make the city truly unique and the perfect destination for history and heritage lovers . But it's not all about the architecture - in Parc Güell, Ciutadella and Monjuic the city has three remarkable parks, each with it's own special character. And a short drive out in any direction will deliver delightful mountain scenery, wetlands rich in birdlife or yet more golden, sandy beaches... Barcelona province In the shadow of its glittering capital city, the Province of Barcelona often gets overlooked but get out and about and you’ll find a region with a rich heritage and a deep natural beauty with golden beaches, mountainous nature parks and rolling vineyards. Just inland from the city lies Montserrat, the spiritual heart of Catalonia with its magnificent monastery set in unique, striking mountain scenery. Further north, the awesome, medieval Castle of Cardona (now the Parador) was built with wealth from the local salt mine and stands testament to the power of the local overlords. To the south the Belle Epoque, bohemian resort of Sitges sits on the coast at the gateway to the Penedés wine region where Cava is produced in fascinating 'Modernista' bodegas and where you'll find wonderful walking, all year round, among the vines. And a chance to raise a glass to your wine touring holiday in Catalonia! TABLE OF CONTENTS 17 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN BARCELONA CITY La Sagrada Familia Ciutat Vella (Old Town) Port Vell (The Old Port) Eixample & Paseig de Gracia La Pedrera & Casa Batlló Parque Güell Palau de la Música Catalana Barcelona Cathedral Olympic park Montjuic (& cable car ride) Tibidabo Barcelona beaches & Port Olímpic La Rambla Picasso Museum Plaza del Pi Park de la Ciutadella Castell de Montjuic National Art Museum 13 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN BARCELONA PROVINCE Penedés Cava Region Codorniu Freixenet Segura Viudas Cardona’s Castle and Salt Mine Montserrat Sitges Vilanova i la Geltrú Vic Sant Miquel del Fai Garraf Natural Park Delta del LLobregat wetlands Collserola Natural Park FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS RELATED TRAVEL GUIDES See our Discover Northern Catalonia Tour See all Catalonia Tours Things to see and do in Barcelona City La Sagrada Familia Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece This unfinished Basilica is one of the most-visited places in Spain, and for good reason. Antoni Gaudí's ambitious project of the Sacred Family began in 1882 and is still under construction. Even so, the church is considered one of the finest examples of Modernist architecture and has hidden details that are worth a guided visit to understand. Nearby, don’t miss “Las Escuelas” an interesting modernist style building, built by Gaudí to teach the builder’s children. Ciutat Vella (Old Town) Made up of four neighbourhoods, El Raval (to the south/west of La Rambla) and Barri Gotic (including the Born), San Pere and the fisherman’s quarter of Barceloneta (all to the north/east), the Old Town of Barcelona is the best place to wander and explore aimlessly. The Barri Gotic and Born, between La Rambla and the Ciutadella Park, are a labyrinth of winding lanes full of delightful boutique shops, bars and restaurants. Highlights include the Picasso Museum, the lovely churches of Sta María del Mar and Santa Maria del Pi. Barceloneta is less interesting architecturally, but a good place to head for seafood, whilst El Raval (though not the no-go area it once was) has little of interest except MACBA – the Modern Art Museum . Port Vell (The Old Port) Watched over by Columbus, the Old Port, now the city’s leisure marina, is a great place to stroll and look at the boats. There’s a modern pier with a shopping centre, eateries and an excellent modern Aquarium. History lovers should not miss Los Drassanes, the Maritime Museum at the foot of La Rambla, set in the Royal shipyards, which were active during the 13th to 18th centuries when Barcelona was a major naval power in the Mediterranean. Eixample & Paseig de Gracia A showcase of Modernisme architecture The Eixample (or Ensanche in Spanish) is the ‘New Town’, built in the late 19th century when the city expanded beyond its walls. The most prosperous part of the city with the ultra-chic Paseig de Gracia – Barcelona’s high-end fashion boulevard at its heart. La Pedrera & Casa Batlló Two of Gaudí’s finest creations Principal amongst Gaudí’s other Modernist projects in Barcelona, Casa Batlló is the epitome of the Catalan modernist style, loaded (to the gills!) with characteristic features inside and out. Well worth a visit at the beginning or end of a wider tour of Catalonia, for an insight into this unique and fascinating architectural movement. Nearby on the Paseig de Gracia, Casa Milá (or La Pedrera, meaning quarry in Spanish) gets its unusual name because Gaudí decided to carve the curves of this building once the blocks were placed, as a result seemed to be a “quarry” when building it. Not so much to see inside this one but the rooftop, with its ‘stormtrooper’ chimneys is iconic without doubt. Parque Güell Iconic Modernisme park by Gaudí Another icon of Barcelona and yet another of Gaudi’s works. Parque Güell was originally built for the workers in Señor Güell’s factories. Tile-mosaiced lizards and meandering benches are the stand-out images, but it’s a lovely place to stroll and enjoy views of the city and make the most of the Mediterranean climate. Palau de la Música Catalana Designed by Gaudí’s contemporary Lluís Domènech i Montaner, this is one of the best examples of Catalan Modernist architecture , showing perfectly the importance of combining functionality with decoration, which was the essence of that movement. Designed as a home for the Orfeo Catalá, the concert hall is still in use today. You can visit with or without a guide as you wish… Barcelona Cathedral La Seu The origins of the cathedral trace back to a Paleo-Christian basilica dedicated to the Holy Cross (5th-7th centuries). Remnants of this basilica can still be found beneath the current Sant Iu Square and Comtes Street, along with some sculptural pieces preserved in the Barcelona History Museum. During the Muslim occupation of the city (718-801), the basilica was converted into a mosque. It was later restored around the year 877. Construction of the Gothic cathedral began in 1298 and took around 150 years to complete. Make sure to visit the rooftop for a lovely view of the city, and don’t miss the peaceful courtyard. There, you’ll find thirteen white geese, symbolising the years of Saint Eulalia’s life before her martyrdom. Olympic park Montjuic (& cable car ride) Stunning views over the city and bay Just south of the city centre, prior to the 1992 Olympic Games, the hills of Montjuic were unpopulated parkland and the area still houses two Botanical Gardens (old and new) as well as acres of parkland with wonderful views over the city, making it an excellent escape from the hustle and bustle. The Olympic Ring, nowadays the main attraction, is located behind the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya and is centred around the Olympic Stadium, which also houses the Museum of the Barcelona Olympic Foundation. The most striking building in the complex is the Palau Sant Jordi. Designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki, it was inspired by the Mediterranean tortoise, with an enormous glass shell. For art lovers there’s also the Fundación Juan Miró. If you’re feeling energetic, at the top of the hill there’s a castle with views of the port and the city. Take the cable car from the Old Port up to Montjuic for the very best views of the city. There’s also a funicular (or buses) to come back down – or stroll down at the end of the day to see the Magic Fountains of Montjuic , a wonderful light show with music (show starts at 21.00 / 21.30 Thu, Fri, Sat most of the year, Weds also in summer). Tibidabo Fairground attraction - with views Barcelona’s other hill-top attraction, Tibidabo, hosts a fun fair and the Observatory as well as the iconic Sagrado Corazón church. It’s quite a distance out of the city, but there are buses and a funicular. Barcelona beaches & Port Olímpic Superb city beaches - something for everyone From Playa San Sebastian, beside the Barceloneta neighbourhood, running past the Olympic Port to the Forum, Barcelona’s golden beaches stretch a total of 5km. The Port Olímpic, halfway along, is lined with restaurants-some quite swanky-and is an excellent place to head for a paella, fideuá or seafood blowout, but there are bars and eateries all along the first few kms of the beach. At the far end, the beach is less developed and some stretches are assigned as nudist beaches. La Rambla And the Boquería market Barcelona’s iconic promenade stretches from Plaça de Catalunya, the city’s central hub, to the Christopher Columbus monument at the entrance of the old port. The central section is a pedestrian-only walkway filled with street performers, souvenir stalls, bars, and restaurants, all vying for the attention of visitors. Has to be seen but don’t get stuck here - and be careful with your wallet. The Boquería market, the city’s main food market, is likewise converted into a tourist attraction these days but nonetheless offers a riot of colour and flavour. Plaza Real, on the other side of the Rambla, has a good selection of bars with terraces. Picasso Museum Spain's best collection of the artist's work The Picasso Museum is one of Barcelona’s most popular and frequently visited attractions. It houses one of the largest collections of works by the 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, with over 3,800 pieces in its permanent collection. Plaza del Pi Our favourite square Not far from La Rambla but somehow removed from the madding crowds, Plaza del Pi, next to the delightful church of Santa Maria del Pi, is one of our favourite little squares, with a good selection of bars just to sit and people watch (though there are often good street artists if you’re lucky). Park de la Ciutadella And the Arc de Triomf This park, known as the green lung of the city, is located close to the city centre. Built for the 1888 Universal Exhibition, the park has more than ten gates, two of which were designed by Josep Fontsere while Gaudí was his assistant. The main entrance is via the unique Arc de Triomf, built in the Moorish revival Neo-Mudéjar style. The original exhibition buildings are now used as museums, and the park has an extensive arboretum, boating lake, grand waterfall, and the city’s zoo. Castell de Montjuic Perched high on Montjuïc Hill, at the top of the little cable car ‘Teleferic de Montjuic’ (not the one from the port), with sweeping views over Barcelona and the sea, the 17th-century castle of Montjuïc is now a peaceful spot to explore and soak in the city’s history. A great place to combine a bit of history with some stunning scenery-and maybe get a bit of exercise along the way! National Art Museum The world's best collection of Romanesque art The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya is located in the Palau Nacional at the foot of Montjuïc, built for the 1929 International Exhibition. It boasts the world’s finest collection of Romanesque mural paintings (extracted from churches around the region – do not miss this if you’re visiting the Vall de Boi during your trip), alongside works by leading Catalan modernist artists such as Gaudí and Casas. The museum also features Gothic art, masterpieces by European Renaissance and Baroque painters including Titian and Velázquez, and an impressive photography collection. Things to See and Do in Barcelona province Penedés Cava Region Catalonia’s premier cava-producing region Sant Sadurní d’Anoia and nearby Villafranca de Penedés are the main towns of the Cava region, the perfect place to explore the history and origins of this beloved sparkling wine. Both towns have a good selection of modernist buildings, and Sant Sadurní has a striking medieval defence tower. Look out for Casteller (human tower building) activity, which has a strong tradition in this area and is not to be missed. Don’t miss a visit to the Cava Interpretation Centre, located in an old wine distillery dating back to 1814, housed in the La Fassina building-and, of course, a bodega or two… Codorniu The headline winery visit in the Penedés area, Codorníu, boasts the largest underground cellar in the world, set beneath a beautiful Modernista building, listed as a National Monument, designed by Puig i Cadafalch. https://www.codorniu.com/en/vi Freixenet The other big name in Cava, Freixenet, just opposite the train station in San Sadurni, is also housed in a charming building. https://freixenet.com/uk/visit-us Segura Viudas One of our favourite visits, Segura Viudas is housed in a lovely building set in beautiful scenery among the vineyards. Though the building isn’t Modernista, the workings of the winery are, with some fascinating details. https://seguraviudas.com/visit-us/ Cardona’s Castle and Salt Mine Explore Cardona’s fortress and mines The most important medieval fortress in Catalonia is perched on a hill overlooking the Saline Valley and the enormous Salt Mountain – source of the ‘white gold’ and the considerable wealth which built, and at the same time necessitated, the castle. Built in 886 by Wilfred the Hairy, it features Romanesque and Gothic styles. Highlights include the Minyona Tower (from the 11th century), standing 15 metres tall with a diameter of over 10 metres, and the Romanesque Church of Sant Vicenç de Cardona. Today, the castle houses the Parador de Cardona. A visit to the salt mine is also not to be missed! Montserrat Pilgrimage site amid stunning peaks This characteristically shaped ‘sawtooth mountain’ massif, which rises sharply to over 1200m to the west of Barcelona, is revered as the spiritual heart of Catalonia and, though dwarfed by the Pyrenees, the region’s most iconic mountain. Its “natural yet otherworldly beauty” is the result of millions of years of geological processes and is said to be one of the key influences on Gaudí’s architecture. According to legend, the image of the Virgin Mary was discovered in the Holy Cave, leading to the founding of the Benedictine Monastery and linking Montserrat to spirituality ever since. If visiting the Monastery, check the timings for the boy’s choir recitals (it’s one of Europe’s oldest and finest). The Chapter House and the neo-Romanesque cloister are worth visiting. For a more active visit, you can climb to the top of the mountain (or take the rack railway) to explore this unique landscape and enjoy the stunning views! Sitges Sitges is a charming seaside town renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and relaxed atmosphere. Stroll along its beautiful promenade lined with palm trees, explore the narrow, whitewashed streets of the old town, and soak up the bohemian vibe that has attracted artists and free spirits for decades. Don’t miss the Maricel Museum and the Cau Ferrat, where you’ll find a mix of art and history, or simply unwind at one of its chic cafes or beachside restaurants. Vilanova i la Geltrú Vilanova i la Geltrú is a charming coastal town known for its golden beaches, perfect for a day of sun and water sports, while the bustling Rambla is lined with shops, cafes, and a lively atmosphere. Don’t miss Vilanova Vella, the town's historic centre, where you can wander through narrow streets filled with character, admire the medieval architecture, or dive into the town’s history at the Víctor Balaguer Museum, or take a stroll along the marina for stunning sea views. Vic Medieval town with vibrant markets. A delightful, historic town with a stunning medieval centre set around the bustling Plaça Major, a grand main square surrounded by historic arcades and colourful facades. Explore the Cathedral of St. Peter, with its mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, and don’t miss the Episcopal Museum, which boasts a fascinating collection of medieval art. The town’s weekly markets, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, are a special treat not to be missed. Sant Miquel del Fai A monastery amidst waterfalls A medieval monastery built into the cliffs, surrounded by waterfalls and dramatic rock formations, Sant Miquel del Fai is a true hidden gem nestled in the Catalan countryside, 50km from Barcelona. The walk to the site itself is a treat. Wander through the ancient chapel and monastery buildings, carved directly into the stone, with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Garraf Natural Park A protected coastal park in Catalonia South of Barcelona, just inland from Sitges, the Garraf Natural Park offers the perfect escape with its peaceful yet rugged landscapes. Explore its diverse terrain, from vineyards to hidden caves, and keep an eye out for local flora and fauna. For a unique experience, visit the Plana Novella, a modernist mansion which houses the Sakya Tashi Ling Buddhist monastery. Delta del Llobregat wetlands Just south of the city, the final stretch of the Llobregat River, with its lagoons, wetlands, coastal pine forests on dunes, and pristine beaches, is remarkable for its rich biodiversity, particularly its birdlife. Collserola Natural Park Hiking and wildlife near the city Barcelona’s ‘green belt’ offers a breath of fresh air and a slice of nature right on the city's doorstep. Explore miles of well-marked trails, visit the charming Sant Cugat Monastery, or enjoy a picnic with a view from the top of the park’s highest point, the Talaia. About Us About the tours Frequently Asked Questions about Things to See and Do in Barcelona City and Province How to get to Barcelona Getting there English airports Barcelona connections London Gatwick Easyjet, Vueling London Stansted Ryanair London Heathrow B.A., Vueling London Luton Easyjet, Ryanair London City B.A. Manchester Easyjet, Jet2, Ryanair, Vueling Birmingham Jet2, Vueling, Ryanair Bristol Easyjet, Ryanair Newcastle Ryanair Leeds Bradford Jet2 Liverpool Easyjet, Ryanair Irish airports Barcelona connections Dublin Aerlingus, Ryanair, Vueling Cork Ryanair Belfast Easyjet Scottish airports Barcelona connections Glasgow Easyjet, Ryanair (Prestwick) Edinburgh Ryanair Getting around As part of your package we will include a hire car. Normally we include a 4 door economy class car but please let us know if you would like something different. When to go to Barcelona With a warm Mediterranean climate the city and province of Barcelona is worth a visit at any time of year. Summer can be very hot and the coastal areas busy with holidaymakers so spring and autumn are the best times to come to see the region at its finest. How long to stay in Barcelona There’s so much to see and do in Barcelona city and across the province - from the world-famous architecture and buzzing markets to charming coastal towns and mountain scenery - that we usually recommend spending at least two or three nights. If, however, your main focus is just to see the city’s highlights, such as the Sagrada Família, the Gothic Quarter and Park Güell, a couple of nights can be enough. What to eat in Barcelona and nearby From fresh seafood straight off the Mediterranean coast to traditional Catalan dishes like escudella, botifarra with beans, and the ever-popular pa amb tomàquet, Barcelona’s food scene is a true feast for the senses. Add a glass of sparkling Cava from the nearby Penedés or a robust red from the Empordà, and you’ve got the perfect match. Eating out in Barcelona is a joy - from vibrant food markets and modern tapas bars to elegant Michelin-starred restaurants and seaside chiringuitos, there’s something for every taste and budget. For a pre-lunch ritual, do as the locals do and enjoy a vermut at one of the city’s many neighbourhood bars - it’s the perfect way to soak up the local atmosphere and start the day the Catalan way. What to buy in Barcelona If you can carry liquids, a bottle of Cava from the Penedés, wine from the Empordà or a bottle of local vermouth makes a perfect souvenir to bring home. For a tasty reminder of your trip, look out for Catalan olive oil, artisanal cheeses, or traditional sweet treats like mel i mató or panellets. For general shopping, head to Passeig de Gràcia and the nearby streets - home to a mix of elegant boutiques, international brands and modernist architecture. If you prefer something more local, explore the boutiques and design stores around El Born and Gràcia for unique finds and handmade crafts. Make it happen... To fully experience Barcelona city and the surrounding province, our Discover Catalonia - The Grand Tour offers an excellent combination. It includes 3 nights in the city, but we can extend your stay to suit your plans. For a coastal adventure including a break in the capital, take a look at our Coastal Catalonia - Camí de Ronda. If you’re particularly drawn to the province’s inland areas and have an interest in history and heritage, stay at the Parador de Cardona, included in our Discover Northern Catalonia. Contact us - or give us a call on 01223 328721 to discuss your requirements - we're more than happy to combine and adapt the tours to suit your personal needs and ensure you get the perfect south Spain itinerary! 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