2 AMAZING DAYS IN BARCELONA: WHAT TO DO AND SEE

Spending a weekend in Barcelona and wondering how to make the most of your weekend? We’re here to help with our 2-day Barcelona itinerary!

Although it’s not Spain’s capital, Barcelona is definitely its most visited city, and for a great reason! Barcelona is a vibrant and culturally rich city with a lot to offer.

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From gorgeous architecture to incredible beaches, Barcelona has it all for an incredible holiday. We’re bringing you the best 2-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to this Spanish gem.

WHERE TO STAY: Hesperia Barcelona Del Mar hotel

In search of the best value for money hotel, we booked Hesperia Barcelona Del Mar hotel.

This hotel is situated almost directly on the beach. We really enjoyed this location as it was close to many great restaurants serving Spanish tapas and seafood.

As we are big walkers, the hotel was also fairly close to the city center for us to walk to (an hour to Gothic Quarter or Sagrada Familia). You also have a shopping center near the hotel in case you forgot something and need to shop.

We arrived close to midnight, but the hotel has 24-hour reception service so our arrival time wasn’t a problem.

The room we booked was a standard double room, and it was clean and very spacious. The bathroom was lovely, and we felt great staying there.

The only problem we’ve had while staying was the heating. Our visit was in January and while Spain is much warmer than the rest of Europe, it still requires some heat during winter. The rooms have AC which you can use to heat up the room, but it wasn’t that functional, which meant we were a bit cold during the night.

TRANSPORT

Barcelona is a big city so there are many different ways to get around. The most efficient way of transportation is metro – it’s quick, easy and runs throughout the whole day, from 5 a.m. to midnight.

You can also use a taxi or an Uber. We’ve used Uber a few times and it was quite inexpensive so you can use it even if you’re on a budget. Barcelona is also a very walkable city, and you should totally take advantage of that if you like walking.

Read more >>> One day in Malaga, Spain

BARCELONA 2-DAY ITINERARY

Barcelona, day 1: a day for Gaudi

Breakfast at a Local Café

Barcelona is a very cool city with many cute local cafes who offer breakfasts and brunches. Wake up and grab a coffee and a snack in one of many cafes before exploring the city. We recommend the gorgeous Brunch & Cake for a delicious breakfast.

Sagrada Familia

Barcelona’s most famous landmark is Sagrada Familia, a church that people have very mixed opinions about. Well, whether you think it’s pretty or not, it’s still a place you must visit.

Nestled in the heart of Barcelona, this architectural gem is a masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí. Gaudi is the creator of most of Barcelona’s gorgeous landmarks, and Sagrada Familia is just one of them. The construction of this gorgeous building started in 1882 and continues to this day – it’s still not completed.

The church has a very unique exterior, but the interior is even more special. Inside, you’ll step into a surreal forest of columns resembling trees, with a breathtaking canopy ceiling. Stained glass windows cast vibrant, ever-changing hues throughout the church. It’s simply a place you cannot miss.

Get your tickets online since the lines for La Sagrada Familia are always huge. The tickets are around 30 euros for a fast-line ticket, and around 40 for additional access to the tower.

Park Güell

Another masterpiece by Gaudi is Park Güell, a place that seems to defy reality. This park is a gorgeous blend of nature and imagination and it will leave you stunned. The surreal sculptures, colorful mosaics, and enchanting pathways that make up this whimsical space will charm you off your feet!

You need to book your tickets (13 euros) in advance to beat the crowds. Park Güell is, along Sagrada Familia, Barcelona’s most famous tourist attraction, so it’s always crowded. You can see Some parts of the park for free but not the most popular parts such as the gorgeous “gingerbread” houses. As you explore, let your imagination run wild, and don’t forget your camera – there are countless Instagram-worthy spots.

Casa Batlló

The last masterpiece by Gaudi on this list is Casa Batlló. You’ll find it in Passeig de Gràcia and it’s a must-visit. If you’re on a budget you don’t have to buy an entrance ticket as they’re quite expensive, but if you’re interested in seeing the interior, you won’t regret visiting it.

The exterior of Casa Batlló is like something out of a storybook. Colorful tiles and fascinating balconies create a picture-perfect scene that’ll make you stop and stare.

When you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a dream world. Wavy walls, arched doorways, and curvy woodwork make every room look like a work of art.

The entrance ticket to Casa Batlló is 29 euros on their official website.

Barceloneta

End your night in Barceloneta, one of the most beloved and iconic districts in Barcelona. Barceloneta is known for its stunning beach, which stretches along the Mediterranean coast.

The Barceloneta Beach is a lively hub of activity, with beachfront bars, restaurants, and water sports, making it an ideal place to unwind. This district is also a culinary paradise, offering a wide range of seafood restaurants and tapas bars.

A scenic promenade runs along the beach, perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides. It’s a great way to explore the coastline and offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean.

Barcelona, day 2: explore the city

La Boqueria

La Boqueria is the most famous and vibrant market in Barcelona. It is located in the heart of the city, close to La Rambla. This colorful food market that has been serving locals and tourists for many years and visiting La Boqueria is not only a culinary experience but also a cultural one.

La Boqueria has numerous food stalls and small eateries where you can enjoy traditional Catalan dishes, as well as international cuisine. It’s a perfect way to start the day with some Catalan breakfast.

The market is open from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. every day except Sunday.

La Rambla

La Rambla is the most famous street in Barcelona. It stretches for approximately 1.2 kilometers through the city, from Plaça de Catalunya in the north to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell in the south.

La Rambla serves as a promenade where both tourists and locals come. It’s always lively with tons of street performers, artists, and musicians. There are numerous restaurants, bars, and shops where you can spend your time and people watch.

Gothic Quarter

Gothic Quarter is one place you really can’t miss in Barcelona. Every European city has their own version of the old town, and this is Barcelona’s. This district is home to many narrow, winding streets, ancient architecture, and several historical and cultural attractions.

The Gothic Quarter is home to well-preserved medieval architecture and some of the most important locations you need to visit are Cathedral of Barcelona, Plaça Reial, and Plaça Sant Jaume. After exploring these three, get lost in the gorgeous, cobbled streets of the district.

Eixample district

Eixample is famous for its strict grid layout, which you’ve surely seen in many aerial pictures of Barcelona. This huge district known for its vibrant nightlife, especially in the area known as “Gaixample”. This part of the district is the center of Barcelona’s LGBTQ+ community and offers numerous bars and clubs.

If you’re not interested in the nightlife, this district is also famous for excellent shopping and dining, so eating out is an amazing experience is this part of Barcelona.