Picture this: You’re going to Barcelona for a weekend and want to check as many important sites off your list while you’re there. After visiting Barcelona a few times over the years, both as a tourist and guided by locals, here are my recommendations for how to maximize your time in beautiful Barcelona.

Day 1

Wander around the Gothic Quarter

Whenever I’m visiting a city with an “old town”, I love to find a point of interest and then wander around after. I enjoy navigating the labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys and seeing where they lead you. The architecture and urban layout is starkly different from the U.S. and that’s why I find “old towns” so magical. There are some lovely streets near the Cathedral of Barcelona and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Mar. The latter cathedral is the subject of a book turned Netflix series called Cathedral of the Sea, which fictionally chronicles the building of the cathedral in the 14th century.

Stroll through Ciutadella Park

This is a charming and elegant park in the center of Barcelona. It’s perfect for a stroll or rest on a busy day of sightseeing. The park’s main attraction is its fountain. Other notable activities include row boats for rent in an adjacent lake, the zoo, and the Catalan Parliament. You’ll also find the Arco de Triunfo a short distance from the park.

Day 2

Marvel at the Sagrada Familia

If you’re going to Barcelona, seeing the Sagrada Familia is an absolute must. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen and as they’re still completing it, every time you return, it will be different! It’s essential to buy tickets in advance. Your ticket includes an audio guide and will share the history and architectural details during your visit, which lasted about 1.5 hours. Post-COVID, you now access the audio guide on your phone, so I recommend bringing your own headphones or earbuds.

Enjoy the views from Park Güell

My friends visiting from the States affectionately referred to Park Güell as “the park where they filmed the Cheetah Girls Movie.” True! Park Güell is widely recognized by its ceramic benches and views of the city. To access this part of the park, you need to purchase tickets. Due to its popularity with tourists, I recommend buying in advance. It’s mostly an area to take photos, so after you get your shot, be sure to walk around the rest of Park Güell. There’s plenty to see!

Day 3

Visit a Gaudí house

Antoni Gaudí was a famous Catalan architect and several houses he designed are open to visit throughout the city. The most popular are Casa Battló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera or “The Quarry”). My favorite is Palau Güell, which is where my local friends told me to go. I’ve also been to Casa Milà, but was a bit disappointed with how much of the house we didn’t get to see. The self-guided tour consisted of the roof, attic, and a private apartment. In my opinion, Palau Güell is a much better bang for your buck as you get to see the entire house. Although I haven’t been yet, I also hear Casa Vicens is a great off-the-beaten path Gaudí house. Best to buy tickets for all Gaudí houses in advance.

Walk down La Rambla

La Rambla is a long pedestrian street through the center of Barcelona, which will take you toward the Mediterranean Sea if you follow it all the way. Along the way, you’ll pass Boquería Market, which is definitely worth a stop for a snack or a drink.

Relax on La Barceloneta

Barcelona’s city beach, La Barceloneta is your chance to take in the Mediterranean Sea. Walk along the beach, relax in the sand, and grab a gelato along the way!