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Barcelona

Gaudi landmarks, tapas counters & Raval vintage

Browse Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Carrer de la Riera Baixa, Sagrada Familia and Park Guell. Food lovers should not miss Cal Pep and El Xampanyet. Below you will find 44 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Barcelona at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Carrer de la Riera Baixa and Sagrada Familia
  • Where to stay: Poblenou and Eixample
  • Local picks: 44 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Barcelona

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Compare live hotel prices and availability on the map. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Barceloneta

Barceloneta Beach

The city’s most accessible beach, a lively strip of sand backed by seafood restaurants and summer beach bars. Great for a swim, a stroll along the boardwalk or a paella with your toes near the sand – mind your belongings.
★ 4.3
$
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Ciutat Vella

Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter)

A labyrinth of narrow medieval lanes, hidden plazas and the towering cathedral at its heart. Get happily lost among the stone alleys, artisan shops and tucked-away bars – the atmospheric core of old Barcelona.
★ 4.7
$
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El Carmel

Bunkers del Carmel

Old Civil-War anti-aircraft bunkers on a hilltop, now the city’s favourite free 360-degree viewpoint. Bring a picnic and a drink and join locals for one of Barcelona’s best sunsets over the whole city and sea.
★ 4.7
$
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El Raval

Carrer de la Riera Baixa

Barcelona’s go-to street for alternative shopping – a short Raval lane packed door to door with second-hand shops, record stores and tattoo parlours, with a few cafes to round it out. Great for cheap new threads and crate-digging; on most Saturdays the shops spill outside and turn it into a little open-air market.
★ 4.3
$
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El Born

El Born & Passeig del Born

The effortlessly cool old quarter around the beautiful Santa Maria del Mar church – medieval lanes lined with independent boutiques, tapas bars and buzzing nightlife. One of the best areas in the city for an evening out.
★ 4.6
$
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El Raval

La Boqueria Market

The city’s dazzling covered food market just off La Rambla – pyramids of fruit, jamon, seafood and sweets. It’s busiest and priciest at the front; head to the back-counter bars for a proper local breakfast or lunch.
★ 4.5
$
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Ciutat Vella

La Rambla

Barcelona’s famous tree-lined promenade slicing through the old town from Placa Catalunya to the sea – a river of people, flower stalls and human statues. Touristy and pickpocket-prone, but an essential first stroll; duck into the side streets for the real city.
★ 4.2
$
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Montjuic

Montjuic & Magic Fountain

The Montjuic hill stacks gardens, museums, an old castle and city views, with the Magic Fountain putting on free light-and-music shows below on select evenings. Ride the cable car up and walk down through the greenery.
★ 4.6
$
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El Born

Parc de la Ciutadella

Barcelona’s green lung beside El Born – shady paths, a monumental cascade fountain (with a young Gaudi’s hand in it), a rowing lake and the Catalan parliament. Perfect for a picnic or a lazy afternoon.
★ 4.5
$
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Before you go

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Book your trip to Barcelona

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Barcelona travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Barcelona?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Barcelona at a relaxed pace. See our Barcelona itinerary guide for a day-by-day plan.

Where is the best area to stay in Barcelona?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit. Our where to stay in Barcelona guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods.

What are the best things to do in Barcelona?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay.

What is the best time to visit Barcelona?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Barcelona is worth visiting year-round.

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