There is no shortage of landmarks in Barcelona; the city is laden with history, art, and charm. Just look up as you walk down the street to catch glimpses of the past. Walk around the medieval streets in the Gothic Quarter to admire Barcelona’s very own “Bridge of Sighs” as well as Barcelona Cathedral. Marvel at the colorful columns at Palau de la Música Catalana and walk beneath the Arc de Triomf. And, of course, no visit to Barcelona is complete without getting your fill of eccentric Gaudí architecture and the world famous Sagrada Família.
Here are the spots that made our list:
Sagrada Família: A breathtaking church even when just viewing the outside. When you enter, however, you will be blown away by the large vaulted ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows. Try out the audio tour, which provides just enough information to keep you interested in the architecture and history, but not so much that you feel overwhelmed. You must book in advance before heading over, as it is extremely popular, and, if you’re up for experiencing some of the most amazing views of Barcelona, it’s worth paying a little extra to go up the towers. Right now, the church is undergoing reconstruction, but your entry fee goes towards the project – you’re basically making history!
Locality: Eixample
Address: C. de Mallorca, 401 (C. de Sardenya) 08013 Barcelona Catalonia
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Camp Nou: This is a huge, iconic football stadium. It doesn’t matter where you’re standing, or whether you’re a football fan or not, you will be bowled over by the unbelievable view. With a capacity of 99,000, it is the largest stadium in all of Europe. The full stadium tour is around 4–5 hours long, but it won’t feel that long because it is so amusing and interesting. However, if you’re not up for such a time-consuming tour, there are shorter options available. For the ultimate experience, watch a live game here.
Locality: Outer Barcelona
Address: C. Arístides Maillol, 12 (Av. Joan XIII) 08028 Barcelona Catalonia
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Park Güell: The architecture here is very impressive, providing a lot of great photographic opportunities. There is an earthy yet surreal element to the atmosphere at Park Güell, which makes it feel like you’re entering something truly out-of-this-world. Because of its popularity, you must purchase tickets well ahead of time. Try heading to the park early to avoid the swell of tourists 1–2 hours after opening. Along with the interesting architecture, the soundscape of the park features local artists playing instrumental music over an orchestra of birds.
Locality: Outer Barcelona
Address: C. Olot, s/n 08024 Barcelona Catalonia
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Casa Batlló: Be prepared to marvel at truly remarkable architecture and design. Casa Batlló is very artistic, a stunning contrast of bone-like features and calming aqua colors. This iconic work of art puts Barcelona on another level, setting it apart from most other European countries. As amazing as it looks, the detailed spatial design also delights the touch, with little knobs on the banisters and door handles that fit perfectly into the palm of your hand. The visual and physical elements create an augmented reality with the texture of Alice in Wonderland. Be warned that entry here is quite expensive, but it is worth experiencing a vessel of history.
Address: “Pg. de Gràcia, 43 (C. d’Aragó) 08007 Barcelona Catalonia”
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Plaça de Catalunya: A large square in central Barcelona where the city centre and the old city meet. A theme in Barcelona is its wonderful architecture, and here is no different. Prepare yourself for majestic buildings that compliment the bustling city lifestyle. There are plenty of things to do here, and lots of places to eat while you soak up the scenery! It is very easily accessible, with taxis, buses, and trains all heading directly to the city centre.
Address: Pl. Catalunya 08002 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: David Davies
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Parc de la Ciutadella: The first arresting feature of this park is the gold statue that will make you stop in your tracks. Simply a wonderful place to walk, relax and recharge, the park also offers plenty of surprises for guests, including a zoo, a historic building converted into greenhouses, trees growing indoors, and several playgrounds to distact the kids. An added bonus is the free entry!
Address: “Parc de la Ciutadella 08005 Barcelona Catalonia”
Photo: Mark_M
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Triumphal Arch: As with most of the architecture in Barcelona, the Arch is stunning. There is not much else in the surrounding area, so it is not likely that you will just stumble across this landmark on your explorations of Barcelona. However, if you find yourself in the path of the Triumphal Arch, you will surely appreciate the way the gorgeous red brick contrasts with the usual vibrant Spanish skies.
Address: Passeig de Lluís Companys (Passeig de Sant Joan) 08003 Barcelona Catalonia
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Plaça d’Espanya: Built in 1929, Plaça d’Espanya is one of Barcelona’s most important squares. Don’t be fooled by the modern feel; though renovated, the site still holds onto its history. Make sure not to miss the famous lights and music show that often takes place on the water here. The colorful lights dancing on the fountains and the host of street performers make this a lively place to be.
Address: Pl. d’Espanya 08015 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC): This massive fountain changes display every few minutes. Because it takes place in such an open, public space, the show is entirely free. However, it is recommended that you arrive early (maybe 30–40 minutes before it’s due to start) to grab a good seat. It begins with modern music, builds toward the operatic, then returns to the modern.
Address: Parc de Montjuïc, s/n (Mirador del Palau Nacional) 08038 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Albert T. M.
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Fuente Mágica de Montjuïc: A huge fountain that changes display every few minutes. Because it takes place in such an open space, the show is entirely free. However, it is recommended that you arrive early (maybe 30–40 minutes before it’s due to start) to grab a good seat. It begins with modern music, but slowly heads towards operatic and then right back to modern.
Address: Plaça Carles Buïgas, 1 08004 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Wikipedia
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Plaça Reial: Plaça Reial is another square in Barcelona offering visitors numerous restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and summer concerts. Located in the Gothic Quarter, the architecture is both historic and beautiful. Try to get a seat at a cafe just off of La Rambla where you can soak in the gentle ambience, rather than the hustle and bustle from all the tourist traffic.
Address: Plaça Reial 08002 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Serge Melki
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Palau de la Música Catalana: In this absolutely stunning concert hall, the beautiful decor sets the perfect tone for the music and dancing that takes place here. The flamenco production is one of the most widely recommended to flavor your visit to Barcelona. Even if you are unable to attend a show, the tour alone will take your breath away.
Address: C. Palau de la Música, 4-6 (Sant Pere més Alt)
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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Gothic Quarter: The charming Gothic Quarter in Barcelona has narrow medieval streets filled with trendy bars, clubs, and Catalan restaurants. It emanates a deep history, dating back to 2nd century Roman times. To take full advantage, be sure to purchase a guide book or an audio tour.
Address: 08002 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Pixabay
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Montjuïc Mountain: This wonderful landmark provides exceptional 360 degree views of both Barcelona and the surrounding sea. You are able to ride a cable car up the hill, but make sure you walk down to fully appreciate the beautiful little gardens – there are plenty of benches dotted around if you get tired or just want to admire the view.
Address: “Montjuïc 08038 Barcelona Catalonia”
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB): This arts centre located in the Raval district of Barcelona revolves around a core theme ofthe city and urban culture. Inside, it is very spacious, inviting an immersive experience of various exhibitions. There is also a cool library open to everyone – perfect for getting some work done or just relaxing.
Address: Montalegre, 5 08001 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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Poble Espanyol: This open-air museum lies right next to the Fountains of Montjuïc. It is very easy to navigate the layout of the space. If you want to avoid crowds, it’s recommended that you go early, which will also allow you to take some really cool photos before the commotion of the tourists begins.
Address: Av. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13 08038 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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Castillo de Montjuic: This is an old military fortress that can be dated back all the way to 1640. It is the highest point in Barcelona, so you will be able to see everything very clearly, especially the beach and the waterfront area. If you’re not up for the walk, you have the opportunity to take a cable car up to the site, which will also give you a taste of the view you’ll be able to enjoy from the top. During your visit, you will be able to learn about the castle’s grim past, while also honor those who suffered.
Address: Ctra. de Montjuïc, 66 08038 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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El Born Centre Cultural: This cast-iron covered marketplace was once the first and largest of its kind in Europe. Now restored as a cultural center, the site also has excavated city ruins from the 18th century on display. If you take a guided tour (available in English), you’ll be able to learn much more information.. Best of all? It’s free to enter.
Address: Pl. Comercial, 12 (C. de la Fusina) 08003 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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Sant Pau Recinte Modernista: A fantastic place with great Catalan modernist architecture from one of its most distinctive architects. It is a restored hospital building with exquisite high-ceiling windows that are about 100 years old. You are also able to take advantage of tours, so you can really appreciate the mosaics, stained glass, and the gardens. The site also rewards a scenic walk with its beautiful exterior and spacious grounds.
Address: Sant Antoni Maria Claret, 167 (Cartagena) 08025 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Son of Groucho
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Canons del Carmel: Here you will find Spanish Civil War bunkers where anti-aircraft guns were installed. It is very easy to get to and doesn’t normally get too crowded by tourists. The calm and the panoramic view you can enjoy from here really make this a unique place to visit in Barcelona. Perhaps one of the best times to visit this site is during sunrise or sunset!
Address: C. Marià Lavèrnia 08032 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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Temple d’August: This is a beautiful small courtyard that is surrounded by restored columns from Temple of Augustus that was built in 1st century BC. It really is one of the best surprises Barcelona has to offer – you will find it hidden between buildings in the Gothic Quarter. Their location has been protected like this in order to conserve its rare beauty. It is a very quiet and peaceful little corner, holding a unique piece of history.
Address: Carrer del Paradís 10 08002 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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Torre Bellesguard: A modern manor house that was designed by a Catalan architect and built between 1900 and 1909. Interestingly, this manor is currently occupied so the tours are only held earlier on in the day. It doesn’t get as crowded as other Gaudi house tours, so you will have a much more relaxing experience. It is a magnificent example of modernism in Barcelona, on top of its beautiful hills and spectacular views.
Address: Carrer de Bellesguard, 16-20 08022 Barcelona Catalonia
Photo: Pablo a Araujo Granda
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FREE Guide to the BEST of Barcelona
Wouldn’t you want to save time and discover the absolute BEST places in Barcelona? – Cafes, accommodation, coworking, gyms, yoga & more
There are many travel guides for tourists who want to visit Barcelona.
Barcelona Secrets is different. Get it here…
Author
Tal Gur is a world traveler and personal development enthusiast. An adventurer at heart, after trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, Tal spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey continues as a location-independent blogger, lifestyle entrepreneur, and coach. Tal’s published two books: One Year to Freedom, a 1-Year Roadmap to Living Life on Your Own Terms; and, his most recent book and bestseller, The Art of Fully Living – 1 Man, 10 Years, 100 Life Goals Around the World.
