Barcelona holidays

For many visitors, a trip to Barcelona means only one thing: Antoni Gaudi. Of the city’s nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, seven were created by the visionary called ‘God’s Architect’. Gaudi’s modernist buildings have defined Barcelona’s identity and three days should be set aside to fully experience them. If you can only visit one, don’t miss the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia.

No city break in Barcelona is complete without a stroll down La Rambla, the centre of social life in Barcelona since the 19th century. La Rambla is lined with iconic landmarks, including the Gran Teatre del Liceu, Boqueria Market and the Canaletes Fountain. You’ll also come across flower sellers, street performers, alfresco restaurants and shops. Just watch out for pickpockets.

Barcelona overflows with magnificent sights, but it’s the locals who bring it all to life. Few people live and breathe culture with more passion than the Catalans. So, roar with fellow football fans at Camp Nou stadium, sign up for flamenco classes or visit top chefs on a food tour and experience the Catalan spirit.

If you’re looking for the best area to stay in Barcelona, check out Eixample. Not only is it centrally located and close to everything, the area lays claim to a major share of Barcelona’s star attractions. Eixample’s wide residential avenues are dotted with modernist gems, including many by Gaudi. The area is also home to many of Barcelona’s trendiest bars, restaurants and clubs. 

Good for: Modernist architecture, stylish restaurants, high-end shopping

If you’re wondering where to stay in Barcelona, why not go medieval and spend a few days in the Gothic Quarter? Keep your hotel address in your pocket as it’s easy to get lost in this delightful labyrinth of historic buildings and squares. But with so many cafes, bars and clubs to discover, taking a wrong turn or two will never be more fun.

Good for: Historical attractions, alfresco dining, nightlife

To experience a slice of local living, Gracia is our pick for the best area to stay in Barcelona. You’ll find tranquil streets, bohemian boutiques and plenty of authentic Catalan restaurants. This neighbourhood has good connections to public transport, allowing easy access to the rest of the city while providing a peaceful retreat away from the tourist crowds.

Good for: Authentic Catalan cuisine, boutique shops, laid-back atmosphere

There’s plenty of things to do with family in Barcelona. Build your own Sagrada Familia on Bogatell Beach. Watch the kids go wide-eyed with wonder at the Chocolate Museum and at the Science Museum, which has free entry for children under 16. Don’t miss the Magic Fountain Show. This water and light spectacular is the perfect end to a family day in Barcelona.

Shoppers bored with usual high-street brands back home will love the shopping in Barcelona thanks to the city’s amazing craftspeople, artisans and designers. From the independent boutiques and workshops of Gracia to the boutiques and designer stores of Passeig de Gracia, this city is full of stylish surprises. 

When it comes to culture in Barcelona, you don’t have to look far. The city’s cultural treasures are not just reserved for its world-class museums and galleries – you’ll find them in its menus, music and streets. From Catalan paella to fiery flamenco, and the street art of Poblenou to the spires of Sagrada Familia, Barcelona is the ultimate cultural feast.

The restaurants in Barcelona will take you on a journey through Catalonian tradition and Mediterranean flavours. Go shoulder to shoulder with locals in the tapas bars of El Born and La Ribera. Order a ‘arroz negro’ (squid ink risotto) at Can Sole, where they’ve been serving fresh seafood since 1903. And for ultimate bragging rights, book a table at Els Quatre Gats, a favourite of Picasso.

Be sure to take an afternoon siesta because the nightlife in Barcelona doesn’t get going until midnight, and there’s lots of it! Venues like Jamboree (jazz), Sidecar Factory Club (alternative) and the Macarena Club have been crowd favourites for decades. The club scene heats up over summer with beach-front parties and festivals pumping out tunes until well after sunrise.

Barcelona beaches are where the Catalonian love for the Mediterranean sun is on full display. The beach volleyball and ‘chiringuitos’ (beach bars) of Barceloneta are walkable from La Rambla. For quieter vibes, head to the family-friendly sands of Nova Icaria and Bogatell Beach. Or spend a day in the sparkling waters of Sitges or Garraf, both about a 30-minute train ride from the city.