10 Must-See Attractions & Activities in Barcelona

Hi all

We hope you enjoyed our latest Van trip series around Spain, we thought we would put a blog post together on the top things to see in Barcelona

Before diving into the main post, our top tip is to spend a few days exploring instead of cramming everything into a single day like we did. Trust us—walking 26,000 steps in one go is no joke!

Barcelona is bursting with energy, stunning sights, and amazing experiences around every corner. Here are our top ten must-dos while you’re there—let’s jump right in!

Check Out La Sagrada Familia

First up, we’ve got Gaudí’s jaw-dropping creation, La Sagrada Familia. This basilica has been under construction since 1882, and trust us, it’s worth every minute.

The details and spires will leave you speechless.

Fun fact: when finished, it’ll have 18 spires, each representing a biblical figure.

Make sure to book your tickets in advance to skip the queues! We visited in off-peak season, and we still had little to choose from, we can’t begin to imagine how busy this place is in peak season

Wander Down La Rambla

La Rambla is the heartbeat of Barcelona. This lively street stretches from Plaça de Catalunya all the way down to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell.

It’s packed with shops, cafés, and street performers. Perfect for people-watching and soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Don’t forget to swing by La Boqueria Market for a tasty snack and check out the flower stalls. (Double check it is open before you go as it was closed on the day we arrived there)

Explore Park Güell

Gaudí strikes again with Park Güell—a colorful, whimsical wonderland of mosaics, winding paths, and quirky sculptures.

Plus, the views of the city from here are absolutely epic. Originally meant to be a residential estate, it’s now one of the coolest public parks around.

Snap a photo by the famous dragon staircase and take a seat on the serpentine bench covered in gorgeous mosaics.

Some of the structures within the park resemble gingerbread houses, as you can see in the photos below

Get Lost in the Gothic Quarter

Ready for a time warp? The Gothic Quarter is where you need to be.

This historic neighborhood is a maze of narrow, winding streets packed with ancient Roman ruins, medieval buildings, and charming squares.

Visit the stunning Barcelona Cathedral and check out the remnants of the Roman wall and aqueduct. Plaça Reial is a top spot for a drink or a bite to eat.

Chill on Barceloneta Beach

After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than kicking back on Barceloneta Beach.

With golden sands and inviting waters, it’s the perfect place to unwind, swim, or take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.

The area is also famous for its seafood restaurants, so treat yourself to some fresh fish or paella while you’re there.

Admire Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló is another of Gaudí’s masterpieces, and it’s straight out of a fairy tale.

This surreal, dreamlike building has a façade that looks like it’s come to life.

Take a tour to dive into its history and be amazed by the stunning interiors. Known as the “House of Bones” because of its skeletal design, it’s a true architectural marvel.

Feast at La Boqueria Market

Barcelona’s food scene is legendary, and La Boqueria Market is the place to experience it.

This bustling market is a feast for the senses, with a wide variety of tapas, fresh seafood, and delicious pastries. Established in 1217, it’s one of the oldest markets in Europe.

Make sure to try some jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, and churros with chocolate while you’re there.

Visit the Picasso Museum

Art lovers, this one’s a no-brainer.

The Picasso Museum houses one of the largest collections of works by Pablo Picasso. Located in the El Born neighborhood, it’s spread across five medieval palaces.

With over 4,000 pieces, it offers a fascinating look into the artist’s early years and creative journey.

Catch a Game at Camp Nou

Football fans, you’re in for a treat. Camp Nou, home of FC Barcelona, is an absolute must-visit.

Whether you’re catching a match or taking a stadium tour, the atmosphere is electric. Opened in 1957, it’s one of Europe’s largest stadiums, with a capacity of over 99,000.

The tour includes a visit to the museum, locker rooms, and even a walk on the pitch.

Head to Montjuïc Hill

For unbeatable views of the city, head up to Montjuïc Hill.

Check out Montjuïc Castle, catch the Magic Fountain’s dazzling light and water show, and wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens.

The hill is also home to several museums, including the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya and the Joan Miró Foundation. You can even take a scenic cable car ride to the top.

There you have it! Barcelona is a city that never stops surprising, offering the perfect mix of culture, history, and relaxation.

Where we stayed

While we were in Barcelona, we stayed at Camping Tres Estrellas, and honestly, we couldn’t have been happier with our choice. Our spot was right on the beach, with incredible ocean views.

The campsite had something for everyone—spaces for vans, quirky little igloo-style houses, and more. There was also a restaurant, bar, and a pool (though it’s closed outside the peak season).

A bus stop was located right outside the site with a bus straight into the city centre

We’d totally recommend it!

What3words location of the campsite we stayed in for our trip to Barcelona ///emperor.helps.sponge

Bonus Information

The best time to visit Barcelona is during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is warm but not overwhelmingly hot, and the city isn’t overrun by peak summer crowds.

During these months, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures perfect for sightseeing, beach days, and outdoor dining. If you visit in late September, you can also experience La Mercè Festival, Barcelona’s biggest street festival filled with parades, fireworks, and traditional Catalan celebrations.

Summer (July and August) can be extremely hot and crowded, with long lines at major attractions, while winter (November to February) is cooler and quieter, offering a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer tourists.

Have an awesome trip! 🚀🌟

Watch our time in Barcelona below

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