7 days in Barcelona, Spain: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Welcome to Barcelona, the enchanting seaside gem of Spain’s Catalonia region! This vibrant city is brimming with exquisite architecture, ranging from the awe-inspiring works of Antoni Gaudí like the iconic Sagrada Familia and whimsical Park Güell to the charming streets of the Gothic Quarter. Indulge in delicious tapas, wind down at the sun-kissed beaches of Barceloneta, or dance the night away at thriving nightclubs. Barcelona is also home to world-class museums, such as the Picasso Museum and the MNAC. There’s something for everyone in this captivating city!
Things to consider before arriving in Barcelona
Diverse attractions, from stunning architecture to beautiful beaches
Vibrant nightlife and culinary scene
Pickpocketing and petty crime can be an issue in touristy areas
Barcelona is perfect for travelers who love art, culture, history, delicious food, and sunny beaches.
What to bring with you
• Comfortable shoes for navigating Barcelona’s distinctive streets
• Light clothing for warm days and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from the sun
• A daypack or crossbody bag with secure closures to safeguard your belongings
Best time of the year to visit
The best time to visit Barcelona is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are thinner.
How to get into the city
1. Flying: Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) serves as the city’s main international gateway. It’s well-connected to numerous worldwide destinations. You can reach the city center via Aerobús or the metro, RENFE train, and taxis.
2. Train: Barcelona is well connected to other Spanish and European cities through high-speed trains (AVE and TGV). The central train stations, Barcelona Sants and Barcelona Passeig de Gràcia, offer comfortable rides with convenient access to the city center.
3. Bus: Estació del Nord and Estació de Sants are Barcelona’s primary bus stations with long-distance connections to other Spanish cities and European destinations. Buses provide affordable options for budget travelers.
A Memorable 7-Day Barcelona Adventure
Day 1: Explore the Iconic La Rambla & Barri Gòtic
Start your adventure with a morning stroll down La Rambla, the famous pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and tapas bars. Get lost in the winding alleyways of the Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) and don’t forget to visit Barcelona Cathedral. For lunch, try Boqueria Market for fresh local flavors. In the evening, visit Plaça Reial for some lively nightlife.
Day 2: Marvel at the Masterpieces of Gaudí
Head to Park Güell in the morning, an expansive green space filled with colorful mosaics and amazing views of the city. Next, visit Gaudí’s breathtaking masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. Have a late lunch at El Nacional before exploring Casa Batlló and Casa Milà on Passeig de Gràcia. End the day at La Pedrera‘s rooftop terrace for a magical sunset view.
Day 3: Discover Montjuïc & Poble Espanyol
Begin your day at Montjuïc, a hill boasting beautiful gardens, museums, and city views. Visit the MNAC (National Art Museum of Catalonia) and Poble Espanyol, a replicated Spanish village. Enjoy a traditional Catalan lunch at Tablao de Carmen. In the evening, catch the Font Màgica (Magic Fountain) show.
Day 4: Day Trip to Girona
Take a day trip to Girona, the historic medieval city just an hour away by train. Wander through the picturesque Jewish Quarter and visit the iconic Girona Cathedral. Stroll down the Onyar River and have lunch at Le Bistrot. Don’t forget to cross the Eiffel Bridge and discover the well-preserved Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths).
Day 5: Beach Day & El Raval Neighborhood
Hit the beach at Barceloneta and grab lunch at La Taperia. After a relaxing beach day, head to the trendy El Raval neighborhood. Visit the MACBA (Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art) and shop at fun concept stores like Chandal. In the evening, dine at Les Quinze Nits in Plaça Reial.
Day 6: Bunkers del Carmel & Passeig de Gràcia
Start the day with breathtaking views at the Bunkers del Carmel. Next, head to Passeig de Gràcia for some high-end shopping and iconic architecture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Cerveceria Catalana. Spend the evening exploring El Born neighborhood and dine at La Paradeta for amazing seafood.
Day 7: Day Trip to Sitges
For your final day, take a train to the coastal town of Sitges. Explore its picturesque beaches, charming old town, and the Church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla. Have a delightful lunch at El Trull. Don’t miss the Palau Maricel and Cau Ferrat Museum before catching a train back to Barcelona.
Extend Your Spanish Adventure
After your unforgettable 7 days in Barcelona, keep the excitement going with visits to nearby cities.
Valencia: Spain’s third-largest city is just 3 hours away by train, offering a beautiful blend of ancient and modern architecture. Visit the City of Arts and Sciences, the charming Old Town, and the bustling Central Market. Unwind at Malvarrosa Beach and taste famous Valencian paella.
Granada: A bit farther away, around 7 hours by train, lies Granada, home to the captivating Alhambra. Explore the beautiful Generalife Gardens and wander the narrow streets of the Albaicín district. Experience vibrant flamenco performances and indulge in the local tapas scene.
