Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Barcelona’s Iconic Landmarks

  • Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café de l’Opera, located near the famous La Rambla.

  • Mid-Morning: Visit the stunning Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). Don’t miss the Barcelona Cathedral and the Picasso Museum.

  • Lunch: Savor traditional Catalonian cuisine at Can Paixano (La Boqueria), a popular tapas bar within La Rambla’s famous market.

  • Afternoon: Take a stroll to Plaça de Sant Jaume and visit the City Hall and the Generality of Catalonia, the seat of the Catalan government. Then head towards Jaume Colom Square where you can find the Barcelona History Museum.

  • Evening: Explore the vibrant nightlife in the El Raval district. Dine at Cervecería Catalana, known for its Catalan cuisine and paellas.

  • Night: End your day with a magical visit to the iconic Sagrada Familia during nightfall.

Day 2: Modernist Barcelona

  • Morning: Have breakfast at El Quim de la Boqueria, another great spot in La Rambla’s market.

  • Mid-Morning: Visit the unique Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera), two of Gaudí’s masterpieces.

  • Lunch: Relax at Mirablau, a restaurant located on top of Montjuïc with breathtaking views of the city.

  • Afternoon: Descend to Montjuïc Mountain and visit the Poble Espanyol and the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC). Take the cable car back down if you prefer a leisurely ride.

  • Evening: Stroll around El Born district. Visit the Picasso Museum (if you missed it on Day 1) and enjoy dinner at Bodega Barcelona.

Day 3: Gaudí’s Masterpiece & Beach Time

  • Morning: Head to Parc Güell early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos!

  • Lunch: Grab a bite at Vegetarian Heaven, located near Parc Güell, which offers a variety of vegetarian dishes.

  • Afternoon: Head to the beautiful beaches of Barceloneta. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea or try some fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

  • Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the Port Vell, enjoy the marina views, and maybe take a boat tour if you wish.

  • Dinner: Dine at 41° Degrees, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Barcelona is a walkable city, but consider getting the T10 travel card for unlimited travel on metro, buses, and trams within the city limits.
  • Spanish siesta culture: most shops close between 2 PM and 5 PM, so plan your day accordingly.
  • English is widely spoken, but learning a few basic phrases in Catalan is always appreciated by locals.
  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like La Rambla and the beaches.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Casa Fuster: A modernist masterpiece itself, this luxury hotel offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of Barcelona.
  • Hostal La Plata: A budget-friendly option located in the Gothic Quarter, offering private rooms and a communal kitchen.
  • The Miramar Hotel by Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel: If you’re looking for luxury and stunning views over the city, this beachfront hotel is an excellent choice.