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.
Barcelona
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.
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.
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.
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.
Casa Vicens
Gaudi’s very first house, a jewel-box of tiled Moorish-inspired colour in Gracia and a UNESCO site. Far quieter than his headline works, it’s a rewarding stop for anyone who loves his style.
FC Barcelona Museum & Camp Nou
A pilgrimage for football fans – the FC Barcelona museum and tour of the legendary Camp Nou, packed with trophies and history. The stadium has been under redevelopment, so check the current tour arrangements before you go.
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.
Palau de la Musica Catalana
A jaw-dropping Modernista concert hall clad in stained glass, mosaic and sculpture, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take the guided tour by day, or better still catch a concert under its luminous inverted-dome skylight.
Picasso Museum
Set in five medieval palaces in El Born, this museum holds one of the world’s great collections of Picasso’s formative early work, tracing his Barcelona years. Free entry on some evenings – check ahead and book.