If you’ve never been to this amazing city, you’re going to love discovering all the cool things to do in Barcelona. Packed with art, music, and vibrant culture, Barcelona is home to world-famous landmarks and hidden gems. Join me as I revisit some of my favourite Barcelona attractions and fill your trip with unforgettable moments.
Things to do in Barcelona with the family
- Gaudi and the Park Guell – At 17 hectares, this is one of the largest green spaces in Barcelona. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudi and is a blend of nature and architecture. The park is filled with fountains, museums, play areas, and pretty picnic spots. The kids will love climbing over colourful, curved mosaics, and being let loose in the adventure playgrounds.
- Sagrada Familia – No matter how many times you see this incredible basilica, each time is as awesome as the first. Gaudi’s vision is still being created 135 years after its conception and is expected to be completed in 2040. Gaudi’s imposing and trademark Art Nouveau designs make this an integral part of your Barcelona sightseeing experience.
- Las Ramblas – You can’t visit Barcelona without a stroll down the famous boulevard that stretches through the heart of the city. Largely pedestrianised, Las Ramblas is a bustling hive of street performers, stalls, street sellers and caricature artists.
- La Barceloneta Beach – In addition to being a great place to take the kids, this beach is also a hotspot for adrenalin junkies wanting to enjoy watersports.
The best bars and restaurants in Barcelona
- Placa Reial – Just off Las Ramblas in the Barri Gotic of Barcelona, Placa Reial is a buzzing hub packed with restaurants, bars and night clubs. With plenty of outdoor seating, you can admire the elegant square with its palm trees, the Fountain of the Three Graces and Gaudi streetlamps as you dine on some of the best Spanish cuisines.
- Café Schilling – This gorgeous hangout exudes pure soul and attracts a mix of customers. The high ceilings, ornate mirrors and marble tables give it a luxurious vibe whereas the live music and eclectic clientele provide a laid-back atmosphere. The café is known for its tasty burgers, salads and sandwiches, as well as its assortment of specialist rums, and cocktails.
- Paradiso – A modern-day speakeasy, Paradiso is a place of magic and whimsy. While patrons enter the bar via a huge commercial fridge door hidden behind a storefront facade, cocktail waiters provide an exciting experience. Drinks are presented with an entertaining flourish and the atmosphere is kept permanently upbeat by the amazing staff. Book yourself in for the ultimate lesson in cocktail-making at this award-winning bar, or simply relax and enjoy the experience. It’s advisable to reserve a table here as people are willing to queue for an hour to get in.
- Clubhaus – Another venue with a secret bar, Clubhaus is a fun hangout with an exceptional evening menu and great lunch options too. Expect generous portions of Mexican, Asian and Mediterranean inspired dishes. Sharing is encouraged but not compulsory! The Jungle Room at the Clubhaus is where you’ll to tuck into delicious pub meals such as fondue burgers or and fish and chips. Fancy yourself as a connoisseur of all things karaoke? Head for the dedicated room where you’ll find like-minded folk crooning like their lives depended on it.
Fab shopping finds
- La Boqueria Market – It hails itself as the best market in the world, and to be fair, it probably is. You’ll find an incredible selection of food at this 200-stall market, from fresh vegetables, fish and meat to speciality cuisines. The market began in 1840 and has grown into one of the best places to visit in Barcelona. Make sure you visit “Organic”, a stall famous for its curry tacos and paella.
- Sea People – When you’re after fashion rather than food, treat yourself to a pair of designer espadrilles. The shop is owned by Enrique Camps who wanted to provide customers with fashionable footwear, created using locally recycled materials.