Barcelona Bucket List: 25 Best things to do in Barcelona

Discover the ultimate Barcelona bucket list; iconic sights, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences to make the most of your trip to this vibrant Spanish city.

Barcelona is a vibrant city, offering stunning architecture and a rich history; it is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. From the whimsical, unique architecture of Antoni Gaudi to the numerous museums and art galleries, there is something for everyone in this famous Spanish city. 

We love trying the best food Barcelona has to offer and spend our days seeing the sights, relaxing on the beaches here and then taking in the exciting nightlife. Barcelona prices can be high but some of these bucket list items are free or more affordable, as are some of the hidden gems in Barcelona.

This Barcelona bucket list includes Barcelona attractions, nightlife options, foods to try and fun things to do in Barcelona with kids. 

Barcelona Bucket List

1. Sagrada Familia

Of course, we need to start with the iconic roman catholic church. Designed by Antoni Gaudi, this church is still under construction and due to be completed by 2026. The UNESCO World Heritage is a must see for visitors, and is one of the most important Barcelona bucket list items. 

From the exterior, the church looks almost like a crumbling sandcastle, with unique towers, spirals and detailing. This is truly a church like no other, with a modern, whimsical style, similar to other works by Gaudi; its easily one of the most instagrammable places in Europe.

You can visit the beautiful inside of the masterpiece and even climb one of the two towers for a unique experience. 

2. Gothic Quarter

The gothic quarter offers a labyrinth of cobblestoned, narrow streets, and a must-see Barcelona bucket list item. Explore the small boutiques, eat tapas in the local restaurants and get lost in the old centre. 

Many of the historical and architectural sites mentioned in this post can be found in the Gothic Quarter, including Barcelona Cathedral and the Basilica of Santa Maria del Pi. 

If you are planning a romantic honeymoon destination in Europe, then staying or visiting the Gothic Quarter is a must-do for you and your partner.

3. Park Güell

This is one of the most popular things to do in the city and for good reason. However, its popularity does mean it is one the busiest attractions in Barcelona; get here early as tickets can sell out early in the day. 

This is another UNESCO site, with the colorful design resembling a gingerbread house.

4. Cathedral of Barcelona

Dating back to the 13th century, this cathedral is an impressive piece of architecture in the Gothic Quarter. Formerly known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, the cathedral offers a stunning facade, with intricate carvings and soaring towers. 

A highlight of the cathedral is the beautiful cloister, home to thirteen white geese. Head to the rooftop for incredible views of the city and appreciate the grandeur ceilings and stained glass windows found here. 

5. Casa Batllo

As one of Gaudi’s most famous designs, this colourful building is another essential item on your things to do in Barcelona list. This quirky, unique building is iconic in Barcelona and has an impressive exterior to wow those walking by. The facade is covered in small ceramic tiles creating a mosaic of the scales of a dragon.

You can also purchase tickets to head inside the UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can find a collection of whimsical, surreal designs, complete with a fairy-tale style. 

6. Casa Amatller 

Located near Casa Batllo, is another unique building in Barcelona. Designed by Antoni Amatller (the chocolatier), this is another quirky designed building, home to an Amatller chocolate store.

You can pick up some chocolates as a souvenir, but we also recommend you head into the cafe here, where you can enjoy melted chocolate on bread. 

7. Casa Mila

Gaudi has incredible architecture across the whole city and across this Barcelona bucket list, but many say he outdid himself here. This was his last civil work and has also become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Located not too far from his other architectural masterpieces, you can spend a day exploring all of Gaudi’s works during your visit. 

8. Tibidabo Amusement Park

This small amusement park is perched on a hillside, overlooking the city of Barcelona. This is a great thing to do in Barcelona with kids, and it’s compact size means it should only take half a day to fully explore and enjoy. 

The park is one of the oldest in Europe, full of vintage rides alongside modern attractions. It is located on the Tibidabo hill; giving the area a historic charm with a natural backdrop. 

You can catch the blue tram and funicular railway to access the park but also make sure to take int he stunning panoramic views of Barcelona and the mediterranean sea. 

9. Sagrat Cor

The Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Sagrat Cor) is a Roman Catholic church, also located on Mount Tibidabo. Because of its elevation, you can see the church from all over the city but it also offers one of the best views of Barcelona as well. 

This is one of the hidden gems in Barcelona, and we recommend heading here on a clear day for the best views. 

10. Palau Güell

Yes, there are many Gaudi masterpieces in this list but he has such an influence and presence over the city, that we feel all his buildings are worth visiting. 

The Palau Guell is located near the Gothic Quarter, and was a palace for Gaudi’s friend and textile industry lead, Eusebi Guell. 

This building is a little more humble and less abstract than his other works but is worth visiting if you are a huge fan of Gaudi. 

11. Las Ramblas

This is the main pedestrian street in Barcelona, connecting Placa de Catalunya with the Christopher Columbus monument. 

Take a stroke down the iconic street in the heart of the city and take in the vibrant atmosphere. From the boulevard, you can also visit Mercat de Sant Josep de La Boqueria (mentioned below) but also see notable landmarks like the Gran Teatre del Liceu. 

12. Parc De La Ciutadella

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the streets of Barcelona by taking a stroke through the park; the Parc de La Ciutadella is one of the best parks in the city and a must for your Barcelona bucket list. 

Located near the gothic quarter, you can enjoy the tropical vegetation and lush palm trees, as you stroll through the paths winding around the park.

Spanning over 70 acres, the park is home to various historical monuments and landmarks, such as the Cascada Monumental. 

13. Arc de Triomf

Another historic sight in the city is the Arc de Triomf. This is an impressive gateway to the Parc above, erected in 1888 as the main entrance for the Barcelona World Fair. 

The arch is an example of Moorish Revivial architecture, designed by Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas.

14. Eat all the tapas

I love the food in Barcelona; it is one of the best Barcelona bucket list things to do in the city. There are tapas restaurants across the entire city and we recommend trying as many as you can, tasting all the best food Barcelona has to offer. 

Some of the best places to eat is El Nacional; a large restaurant full of small restaurants; serving everything from patatas bravas to calamari. 

15. Mercat de La boqueria

Continue your food journey in the city by heading to the main market in central Barcelona. This is where you can try local Spanish dishes as well as fresh seafood, fish and anchovies. 

Pinotxo Bar is a legendary tapas bar located here but we personally love the seafood and sardines at El Quim De La Boqueria. 

16. Barceloneta Beach

Whether you want to sunbath, sip sangria at a nearby bar or swim in the sea, Barceloneta Beach is a must for your Barcelona bucket list. 

Popular with both locals and tourists, this is a busy spot during the summer months because this is arguable one of the best beaches in Spain. However, it offers a relaxing, stress free spot, ideal for those wanting to finish off a busy day sightseeing. 

17. Montjuic Castle

This military fortress dates back to 1640, and is a must on your Barcelona bucket list. Dating back to 1640, this for was an important defence point for Barcelona during the 1700’s. 

Nowadays, you can catch the Montjuic Cable Car to get to the top of the hill and tour the castle before taking in the incredible views of Barcelona. 

On the hill is also the Montjuic fountain show, a spectacular display of light, motion, color and music. 

18. Camp Nou

We are football fans (Chelsea FC all the way) but when in Barcelona, you need to visit Camp Nou. This is the official football stadium of FC Barcelona, so make sure to watch a game, tour the stadium and visit the museum whilst you are in Barcelona. 

19. Basilica of Santa Maria Del Mar

Also located in the Gothic quarter, is this beautiful basilica. This is one of the free things to do in Barcelona, and is a stunning example of Catalan gothic architecture. 

Dating back to 1329, this basilica is known for its elegant design, lightness and openness; with soaring arches and beautiful stained glass windows. 

20. Palau De La Musica Catalana

Constructed between 1905 and 1908, this stunning concert hall is a must visit in Barcelona. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can take a guided tour or attend a musical performance whilst you are in the city. 

21. Immerse yourself in Flamenco

Whether you are catching a flamenco show or taking a class yourself, you need to immerse yourself in the famous Spanish art form. Consisting of guitar playing, songs and dance; this traditional dance includes lots of foot-stomping, hand-clapping and finger-snapping. 

You can catch a flamenco show at Palacio del Flamenco or El Tablao de Carmen.

22. PortAventura World

There are some great theme parks in Europe and Spain’s largest theme park is just 45 minutes away from Barcelona. PortAventure World is divided into 6 different destinations with various themes. 

You can enjoy a tropical vibe in the Polynesia area or explore the Far East. You can also enjoy Sesame Adventure rides here too!

For young people and students in Europe, you can get various deals on the theme parks and attractions in the city too!

23. The Picasso Museum

Picasso fans need to head to the Picasso Museum; home to a large collection of his works; expect to see over 4200 pieces of art here. 

You can enjoy an inside into the early days of Picasso through the works located here and you can skip-the-line for this attraction and many others, with the Barcelona attraction pass.

24. Barcelona’s Ghost Metro Stations

The city is also home to an intriguing underground transit history; these are abandoned or disused stations that you can explore whilst you are here. 

Estacia de Vallcarca is located on Line 3 and was closed in 1966 whilst Estacio de Carda is an original station on Line 4, closed in 1876. 

25. Aquarium Barcelona

Located in Port Vell, is one of the largest aquariums in Europe; Aquarium Barcelona. There are three themed areas of the park, sharing Mediterranean fish, tropical corals and a large Oceanarium. The latter features a glass tunnel, so you can walk under the incredible marine like.

This is a great Barcelona bucket list item with children!

Things to Know Before You Go To Barcelona

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