With its stunning architecture, tasty tapas and abundance of unique activities, Barcelona is the perfect destination for a summer getaway. Now, I don’t know about you, but when I travel, I like to be the girl with a plan! Call me a control freak (which I most certainly am!) but I hate to think I might miss something amazing because I haven’t done my research before I travel. Barcelona was no different and I logged some significant screen time scouring the internet hunting down the must-sees, must-dos and must-eats of the city. So, for those of you thinking about visiting sunny Barcelona, you’re in luck because I’ve already done the leg work and I’m here to share with you my Barcelona Bucket List. Here are the top ten unmissable things to do on your next trip to one of Europe’s most loved cities.
1. Explore the Mountains of Montserrat
OK, so this one might be cheating a little as is it isn’t technically in Barcelona, but this day trip from the city certainly earns its spot on my Barcelona Bucket List! Spend the day exploring a working monastery, nestled in the mountains; sample produce from the local farmer’s market and drink monastery made liquor while listening to the heavenly notes from one of the oldest and most prestigious boys choirs in Europe. Remember to keep your camera handy on your visit as it was here we experienced some of the most breathtaking views of our trip.
If you want a post which tells you all you need to know about visiting Montserrat check out this link here!
2. Learn About the City on a Free Walking Tour
This is a great way in any city to get your bearings and learn a little more while you travel. Tours are often lead by locals who can give you the inside scoop on the best deals around the city. A walking tour is always one of my first stops in any new destination and Barcelona is no different.
Like what you see? Pin it for later!!
3.Find the Most Photogenic Spots in Park Guell
Park Guell is one of Antoni Gaudi’s many masterpieces in and around the city and should definitely be on anyone’s Barcelona Bucket List. It’s a homing beacon for Instagrammers as this unusual outdoor space is just so easy on the eye. Spend a morning meandering through the park, and if you’re a keen photographer like me, this place is sure to inspire creativity!
4.Soak up the Sun at Barcelonetta Beach
There are not many bustling cities in Europe which come complete with its own beach, so take advantage of this!! Rent one of the bikes to mosey along the promenade, take a dip in the sea and explore the bars and restaurants down at the front. This beach is not going to win any competitions, but the atmosphere at Barcelonetta is what puts it on my Barcelona Bucket List!
5.See the City from the top of the Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is arguably Gaudi’s most iconic work, even in its unfinished state. If you think the climbing chiselled turrets are impressive from the outside, then the spectacular splash of colour that greets you on the inside will blow your mind. Take your time becoming immersed in Gaudi’s vision in this magnificent place of worship and don’t forget to buy a ticket which allows you to climb the tower for a fantastic bird’s eye view of Barcelona.
6.Take in the Panoramic Views from Castle Mont Juic
With the city stretching out in front of you on one side and the swirling waves of the Mediterranean on the other, the views at Castle Mont Juic are truly spectacular. Ride the cable car up to explore the castle and take a detour on the way down to the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya and its free evening fountain show. We found Mont Juic a great place to spend a lazy day exploring and revelling in some five-star scenery, and I’m sure you will too!
If great views are your cup of tea and Barcelona is on the cards this summer, check out my post on the Best Views in Barcelona
7.Be immersed in a flavour sensation at La Boqueria Market
This explosion to the senses is definitely worth a putting on your Barcelona Bucket List! It is an absolute explosion of colour every which way you turn and it’s a great way to kill a few hours soaking in the sights, sounds and smells while grabbing a snack or a light lunch.
8.Arc de Triomf and Parc de la Ciutadella
Now, I don’t know about you, but when someone says arc du triumph my mind immediately jumps to Paris. However, it turns out Barcelona is also home to this very special archway too and in my opinion, it’s much easier to get a photo without playing chicken with a sea of angry French drivers. The Arc de Triomf marks the entrance of the Parc de la Ciutadella, a beautiful oasis of green in the centre of the city, both certainly deserve a place on your Barcelona Bucket List.
9.Casa Mila and 10. Casa Batllo
You can’t leave Barcelona without having the full Gaudi experience, so Casa Mila and Casa Batllo should both be on your list. Gaudi drew much of his inspiration from the natural world which can easily be seen in his intricate and thought-provoking architecture. Be transported by his artistic vision while visiting two of his most iconic pieces of work.
So, there you have it, a ready-made Barcelona Bucket List so you can make the most of your next visit to this sunny city by the sea! If you want more inspiration for any up and coming visits to Europe check out the rest of my posts here!
