Barcelona is one of the most beautiful and ancient cities in Europe. Many of the sights of Barcelona are known all over the world. The city is famous for its industry, a large port, as well as magnificent sights, for which thousands of curious tourists come here every year. What to see in Barcelona if you come here for the first time? Especially for you, we have compiled a list of the most interesting places in this amazing city.
What to see in Barcelona first of all
Knowing the most interesting places, you will not need guides in Barcelona, although it is better to use the services of professionals when visiting the city for the first time. With their help, the resort will open up to you from unexpected sides, while you will only have to enjoy every minute of your stay in the city where the great Gaudi once worked.
1. The Redemptive Church of the Holy Family
Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona
The Sagrada Familia is considered the most outstanding historical building in the city, it is among the top best attractions in Spain. The temple is listed in all tourist guides that tell travelers what to visit in Barcelona. This place should not be overlooked.
The cathedral is the work of a world-famous architect named Antonio Gaudi, although Francisco del Villara was originally involved in the creation of the project.
Now the temple receives guests every day who have decided to visit the shrine and attend the divine service. Travelers really like to take pictures against the background of the building. Many of them purposefully come here to appreciate the excellent work of the famous architect with their own eyes.
Official website: https://www.sagradafamilia.org
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2. Park Guell
Park Guell in Barcelona
The most beautiful place in Spain is called Park Guell. A place has been set aside for this Barcelona landmark at Carrer d’olot, 5. Initially, this project was conceived as a commercial one, but it failed to receive well-deserved recognition. Therefore, the park has been converted into a place where anyone can have a good rest from the hustle and bustle of the city.
While walking in the park, you can enjoy interesting combinations of wildlife and human skills. In front of the entrance there are two magnificent houses, which were designed by the talented architect Gaudi. On one of them you can see a small tower decorated with a cross. Few people dare to call the second house a creative work of Gaudi, since it is distinguished by its large dimensions, which the master usually tried to avoid.
Official website: https://www.parkguell.cat
3. Casa Mila
Casa Mila or La Pedrera in Barcelona Ed Menendez
This landmark is the last work of civil engineering, to which Gaudi had a hand. The house was built over several years – from 1906 to 1910.
The Casa Mila house project is distinguished by a lot of innovative ideas that were brought to life during construction. The most striking of them was reflected on the frame of the structure. Gaudi has repeatedly said that this house can easily be converted into a real hotel, as it has a very good layout.
A special ventilation system was created for the house. He even has his own garage. Today, guests of Casa Mila may notice elevators in it, although they were not mentioned in the original project. They were added a few years after the completion of work on the house.
Official website: https://www.lapedrera.com
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4. Casa Batllo
The facade of the Casa Batllo house in Barcelona
Travelers who are thinking about what to see in Barcelona should definitely take a look at Casa Batllo. It is a unique architectural monument, characterized by the complete absence of straight lines. The building’s courtyard, which has non-standard lighting, makes the most impression. Thanks to him, with the setting of the sun, the house turns into a fabulous structure, resembling a huge dragon in its silhouette.
The Batllo House was built in the Dissent Quarter. This place in Barcelona has a huge number of unusual structures that can be safely called real architectural masterpieces.
Official website: https://www.casabatllo.es
5. Camp Nou Stadium
Camp Nou Football Stadium in Barcelona
The largest European stadium is still the New Field. Many people know about the sights of Barcelona. There have been many great matches among the best sports teams at Camp Nou.
The stadium is included in the list of city attractions for a reason. After all, it is famous not only for its football field. Camp Nou also includes a sports hall where volleyball, handball and basketball teams train, an entertainment center and a museum.
The Museum of the New Field was opened in 1984. It is considered the most visited place in Catalonia, where important exhibits are collected. Many people call it the best football museum. Members of the fan club can admire the exhibits of the institution for free.
Official website: https://www.fcbarcelona.com
6. The Palace of Catalan Music
The stage of the Catalan Music Palace in Barcelona Jorge Franganillo
UNESCO leaders have ranked the Palace of Catalan Music among the “Treasures of mankind”. The author of this Barcelona landmark is the talented architect Luis Domenech. Many of his creations still amaze the imagination. The palace became one of Domenech’s most successful works.
The attraction is located near the Gothic Quarter, where tourists go who know exactly what to visit in Barcelona. The building stands out with white stucco and coral-colored walls. It has become a kind of symbol of Catalan architecture and music.
Elements of postmodernism can be seen in the appearance of the building. The stucco patterns are complemented by elegant sculptures that delight travelers.
Official website: https://www.palaumusica.cat
7. Boqueria or San Josep Market
San Josep Market with world famous Spanish fruits
If tourists do not know what to see in Barcelona, it is worth visiting such an interesting place as the Boqueria market. This is the most famous and richest shopping area in the city. It was first mentioned in documents dating back to 1237. A grocery market was formed right next to the city wall of the old city. Farmers and peasants who had goods for sale came here.
In 1914, it was decided to transform the appearance of the market. It was then that he got a metal roof, the aesthetics of the trading place improved significantly. Even today, in Boqueria, you can meet sellers whose ancestors regularly brought high-quality goods here in the early years of the founding of the legendary market.
Official website: https://www.boqueria .barcelona
8. Ciutadella Park or Citadel Park
Fountain in the Ciutadella Park in Barcelona
The park was built on the site where the military citadel once stood. But it was demolished in 1869. After that, a huge park was born here, which was adapted to the needs of the World’s Fair, held in 1888.
Even today, the remains of the last exhibition are located in the Citadel Park. They are presented in the form of buildings located on the territory of this Barcelona landmark. Thus, tourists can still admire the beauty of the Three Dragons Castle, as well as the restaurant, lake and waterfall. Although many visitors to the park are more attracted to the shady garden and greenhouse.
There is a zoo on one side of the park. It occupies the place where the parade ground of the military citadel was once equipped.
Official website: https://www.barcelona.cat
9. Cathedral of the Holy Cross and St. Eulalia
Illumination of the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and St. Eulalia in Barcelona
This landmark of Barcelona is assigned the role of the most important cathedral of the city. It, like a lot of other historical monuments, can be found in the Gothic Quarter. The decision to build this structure was made by King Jaume II, and construction began in 1298. The construction process took about 150 years. Most of the time was spent on the beautification of the facade of the cathedral, as the country was hostage to military operations and deadly epidemics for a long period.
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and St. Eulalia is named after the patroness of the city. The crypt still houses the sarcophagus containing her relics.
Official website: https://www.catedralbcn.org
10. Spanish Village (Architectural Museum of Catalonia)
Spanish Village or Poble Espanyol in Barcelona Amadalvarez
Tourists who have not yet figured out what to see in Barcelona can spend their free time in the Spanish village. This is a city that belongs to artisans and craftsmen. It took the form of a huge museum, whose doors are open to everyone who wants to get acquainted with the local architecture.
The museum houses various bars, restaurants, and shopping pavilions. Interesting exhibitions and concerts are often held here. In the Spanish village, you can see copies of almost all the architectural masterpieces that Spain is famous for.
Interestingly, this landmark is located in the very center of a modern metropolis. It will take tourists many hours to walk around the entire village and inspect each exhibit.
Official website: https://www.poble-espanyol.com
Barcelona Attractions: what else to visit while in Barcelona
Especially for those who are interested in excursions in Barcelona, we present a few more places that are definitely worth seeing with your own eyes. In this city you will not be bored, because literally at every turn you will find another museum, cathedral, gallery, square with sculptures and much more.
11. Tibidabo Amusement Park
Roller coaster at the Tibidabo Amusement Park in Barcelona
Tibidabo Mountain rises above the city. The authorities have set up a luxurious amusement park right on it. The idea of creating such an attraction in Barcelona came to Dr. Salvador Andreu. The square where one of the stations of the funicular of the mountain is located was even named in his honor.
The park was opened in 1901. By that time, he already had a laughing room, bowling alley, pigeon post, slot machines and many other interesting establishments that locals and tourists from other countries could appreciate.
Barcelona’s amusement park also has its own hotel, where everyone can stay.
Official website: https://www.tibidabo.cat
12. Plaza de Espana in Barcelona
Panorama of the Plaza de Espana in Barcelona
The most majestic square of the city was designed back in 1929. It needed to be equipped by the time the international exhibition began. Then Art Nouveau was no longer very popular. Therefore, the architect had to use the classical style of architecture, complemented by Baroque elements. With this combination, Barcelona captivated the guests of the exhibition center.
Plaza de Espana, which is found in the guidebooks that tell you what to see in Barcelona, has become a kind of gateway to the exhibition. In its center there is a huge fountain decorated with sculptures. At that time, there was a red brick building on the square, which served as a hotel. On the other side there was a bullring. Today this place is a shopping mall.
Official website: https://www.barcelona.cat
13. Science Museum (CosmoCaixa)
CosmoCaixa. Barcelona Science Museum Mzamora2
The Science Museum is as amazing as the unique exhibits presented in it. The modernist style was used during the construction of this Barcelona landmark. At least 100 million euros were spent on the construction of this facility.
The Science Museum offers its guests to visit a huge number of exciting events. Temporary and permanent exhibitions are presented in the halls, the purpose of which is to introduce people to the world of science.
A distinctive feature of this institution is that all guests are free to touch any exhibits with their own hands. They also have the opportunity to take part in interesting experiments of geological, technical, mathematical and chemical directions.
14. Royal Square
The Royal Square in Barcelona Spiterman
What to visit in Barcelona in the first place, each traveler decides for himself. Tourists can only be advised to take a look at such a landmark of the city as the Royal Square. Its sophistication is emphasized by lanterns, live palm trees and a fountain. The largest number of visitors to the square is observed at night, since it is at this time of day that it looks fascinating.
The Royal Square is surrounded by various buildings that are made in a classic style. This place was once the home of influential families. Today, representatives of modern Bohemia have settled here. Now the square is home to luxury restaurants, expensive boutiques and nightclubs.
15. Monument to Columbus
Monument to Christopher Columbus in Barcelona
There are always a lot of people crowding around this Barcelona landmark. It is simply difficult for tourists to pass by the 57-meter statue, which depicts the legendary explorer Columbus. It was installed right in front of the Universal Exhibition, which took place in 1888.
For the first time, the idea of creating such a monument appeared in the middle of the XIX century. But it could not be realized in any way. This project was brought back to life several times and forgotten about again as many times. However, one day work on the monument began. Donations were spent on the construction, and part of the funds were allocated from the city budget.
16. The Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe in Barcelona
The list, which includes the best sights of Barcelona, would not be complete without the Arc de Triomphe. It was built specifically for the international exhibition, thereby giving the event even greater importance and grandeur. It served as the main entrance to the territory where the important event of 1888 took place.
The arch is located at the place where two boulevards of the city intersect – the Pace de San Juan and the Pace de Luis Companus. During its construction, the neo-Moorish style was used.
The Triumphal Arch is made of red brick. Due to this, it is very different from other similar buildings, which are the sights of Moscow and Paris. The arch is decorated with a huge number of original sculptures and bas-reliefs.
Official website: https://www.barcelonaturisme.com
17. Pedralbes Monastery
Pedralbes Monastery in Barcelona
Pedralbes Monastery is located on the territory of the eponymous quarter, which is considered the most respectable in Barcelona. It is adjacent to both modern buildings and ancient mansions. This combination of buildings that belong to different eras has its own charm and originality. There is a magnificent park next to the monastery.
Tourists are always surprised by the luxurious decoration of this Barcelona landmark. Most of its buildings were built in the XIV century. During their work, the architects focused on the style that was used during the heyday of Catalan Gothic. Pedralbes has a beautiful cell. Many people call it an unrecognized masterpiece. The room of the cell is decorated on all sides with picturesque paintings, which were made by the court master Ferre Bassa with his own hands.
When visiting Barcelona, you can see such sights, similar to which you will not find anywhere else. That is why the ancient Spanish city attracts visitors from all over the world.
Official website: https://monestirpedralbes.bcn.cat
18. Rambla Street
View of the Rambla pedestrian street in the center of Barcelona tiger rus
Having at your disposal a short period of time to travel around Barcelona, it is better to start with the development of the most important objects of the city. What to see in Barcelona in 5 days? Perhaps one of the first places worthy of attention is Rambla Street, the most famous walking boulevard in the city, separating the Raval district and the Gothic Quarter. The flows of tourists and strolling townspeople do not dry up here, improvised performances of artists are held, souvenirs are sold — life is in full swing. There is something interesting at every step – all kinds of souvenir shops, cafes, street musicians and local artists. The Rambla is divided into 5 segments — Canaletes Boulevard, Boulevard of Learning, where once there was a university, Rambla of Flowers, dotted with flower stalls, Rambla of Capuchins with a theater located here, Rambla of St. Monica with a cultural center, and finally, the youngest segment is the Marine Rambla with a picturesque pedestrian bridge.
19. Agbar Tower
Rounded cone-shaped modern 34-storey skyscraper – Agbar Tower in Barcelona
The Anbar Tower is a young landmark of 2005, the architecture of which does not fit into the general appearance of the city, standing out for its unusual shapes and height. At the same time, such an unusual building, resembling a giant cigar in shape, is an ornament of Barcelona and an excellent landmark for hiking. The view of the tower is completely mystical: more than 4 thousand LED lights are mounted in colored glass panels, thanks to which the skyscraper lights up and plays with millions of shades, resembling a precious stone. But such cladding was created not only to enhance the aesthetics of the building, but also for a practical purpose: the panels move like blinds, responding to temperature sensor readings, so that optimal ventilation is maintained inside and competent energy saving is ensured.
20. Plaza Catalunya
Plaza Catalunya in the heart of Barcelona Bert
When choosing what to see in Barcelona in a week, you should definitely visit Plaza Catalunya – one of the most beautiful places in Barcelona, from where the most famous tourist routes originate. This is an iconic place where the heart of the city beats and life boils – rallies and protests, holidays and festivals take place here, among which the most significant for the citizens is the Festival of the Merciful Mother of God. On an area of more than 50 thousand square meters, despite this vastness, it is always quite crowded and crowded, because not only guests of the city, but also its residents gather here, making appointments with each other. In the very center of the square, surrounded by sculptural compositions, there is a fountain of two sections united by a granite passage. Among the significant buildings of the square are the Consulate of Canada, the headquarters of banks, and the central office for tourism.
21. The Gothic Quarter
Narrow streets and ancient stone houses of the XIV-XV centuries in the Gothic quarter in Barcelona
The Gothic quarter in Barcelona acquired this name because of the large cluster of Gothic buildings located within its boundaries. It is simply impossible to pass this place without attention – its historical architecture is so impressive in its beauty and originality. Even before our era, there was an ancient Roman city on the site of this quarter, with fortress walls, aqueducts, temples, baths and a forum. Those structures that can be seen now appeared in the 14th century – since then, the building of the quarter has not been updated, which made it possible to preserve the gloomy and majestic buildings of the Middle Ages in their original form. On the north side of the block there is an old cafe “Four Cats”, which was a favorite vacation spot of the famous Pablo Picasso. The most prominent buildings of the district are the majestic Cathedral and the Baroque Episcopal Palace.
22. Picasso Museum
Exhibits at the Picasso Museum in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter Kippelboy
Anyone who goes on a trip in the winter season asks a reasonable question — what to see in Barcelona in winter? Perhaps there are no restrictions here, because even in winter the air temperature in the city stays around + 15 degrees. However, one of the best ways to hide from the weather and spend time usefully is to arrange an entertaining tour of museums, for example, to the Picasso Museum, where the most extensive collection of the artist’s works is presented. The exposition mainly represents the early work of the painter, which dates back to the beginning of the 20th century. The few creations in the mature period of Picasso’s life are represented by the Menina series. In total, the museum’s funds number about 3.5 thousand works. All these masterpieces were honored to be presented in an ancient 19th century palace, which was ideally suited for such a purpose.
Official website: https://www.museupicasso.bcn.cat
23. National Museum of Art of Catalonia
The National Museum of Catalan Art at the National Palace in Barcelona Johannes Kern
The attention of everyone passing along Gran VIA Avenue is attracted by an impressive building surrounded by cascading fountains and green spaces, located on a hill. This is the National Museum of Art of Catalonia, which is the most important center of Romanesque art in the world. In addition to the creations of the Romanesque period, here you can admire the masterpieces of the Gothic period. In general, the Romanesque trend in art manifested itself in the 11th – 13th centuries, and most of the exhibits of that time are collected in old churches throughout the Iberian Peninsula. The history of the museum began with the opening of the Romanesque section, where Catalan paintings and wall paintings from the earliest period are presented. The Gothic section has collected works of art from the 13th – 15th centuries, Flemish art from the 16th – 18th centuries represents the Renaissance and Baroque, and the modern art section demonstrates the creations of the 19th – 20th centuries.
Official website: https://www.museunacional.cat
24. Church of Santa Maria del Mar
Interior of the Church of Santa Maria del Mar in the historic quarter of La Ribera in Barcelona PMRMaeyaer
One of the symbols of the heyday of Catalonia in the 14th century today is Santa Maria del Mar, a preserved Catalan Gothic church built with public money in honor of the patroness of sailors, St. Mary. Once the main task of the church, built of gray Montjou stone, was to overshadow the beauty and size of another magnificent temple – the Cathedral of Barcelona. Unlike the latter, this basilica was intended for representatives of the working class of citizens – merchants, artisans, movers. The building really conquers with its elegance – beautiful stained glass windows, a wide arched entrance with a Gothic rose window, and artful sculptural images have not lost their beauty so far. The figures of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, John the Baptist, the apostles Peter and Paul have survived to this day and look as if they are alive.
Official website: https://www.santamariadelmarbarcelona.org
25. Sacred Heart Temple
Beautiful view of the Sacred Heart Temple with the statue of Christ on Mount Tibidabo at sunset
The face of Barcelona architecture is the Sagrada Familia Temple, which crowns the highest point of Barcelona — Mount Tibidabo. For many centuries in a row, Tibidabo was considered very remote and inaccessible to people. But after a while, the Catholic Committee nevertheless decided to use these lands and build a great temple on them, the location of which was to emphasize its divine meaning. First, in 1886, a small chapel was erected here, and patron San Juan Bosco decided to build a similar temple here, continuing the tradition popular at that time, which consisted in the construction of temples of the Sacred Heart of Jesus around the world. And by 1961, a magnificent structure had grown, which even today fascinates with its monumentality, the splendor of Gothic architecture, as well as the statue of Jesus Christ, as if ascending from the top of the temple directly to heaven. And a tiny chapel, which became the ancestor of this basilica, modestly sheltered to the right of the main entrance to the temple.
Official website: https://tibidabo.salesianos.edu
26. Montserrat Monastery
Benedictine monastery in the picturesque mountainous area of Montserrat
Many tourists travel to Barcelona to see the architectural sights of Barcelona. Gaudi was an outstanding Spanish architect who designed many architectural masterpieces in Barcelona. In the capital of Catalonia, he has developed a dozen projects, among which is the monastery of Montserrat, the spiritual symbol of Catalonia at the foot of the mountains of the same name. In addition to Gaudi, a whole galaxy of talented artists worked on its creation, weaving various motifs with a predominance of modernism into the style. The altar is made of local rock, the Madonna’s throne is made of silver, the biblical history of the universe is shown on the slabs inside the chapel, and the altar chapel demonstrates the characteristic touches of Gaudi’s work. The miraculous Black Madonna, a small 95—centimeter statue of the Virgin Mary made of black poplar, is of great value to pilgrims.
Official website: https://www.abadiamontserrat.net
27. Montjuic Fortress
The territory of the Montjuic fortress in the city of Barcelona
Montjuic is a mysterious fortress that has witnessed many triumphs and defeats throughout the warlike history of Spain. It is located on the mountain of the same name and towers over the old city of Barcelona. Until the 17th century, only an observation tower stood on the site of the fortress, and in the middle of this century, the Iberians erected an impressive fort structure in just a month. Fierce battles took place here many times, and Napoleon’s army also set foot on these lands. The hastily built fortress did not inspire much hope for durability, but over the centuries it was rebuilt, strengthened by ramparts, moats and bastions. In the 20th century, a military prison for political prisoners was located within the walls of the fort, and today there is a military museum where exhibits of medieval weapons, uniforms, maps, medals, coins and much more are displayed.
Official website: https://ajuntament .barcelona.cat
28. The magic Fountain of Montjuic
Magic illuminated fountain on Montjuic Hill in Barcelona Thingstodoinbarcelona
Exploring the sights of Barcelona on foot, it is worth climbing the slopes of Montjuic hill, where Carles Buigas Square is located with one of the main decorations of Barcelona — the magnificent Montjuic fountain, one of the symbols of the city. The fountain bowl is an oval, in the middle of which there are several cascades. Locals often call the fountain singing, because in the evening this creation is transformed, and the water jets begin a charming dance to the musical works of Bach, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, as well as many melodies of our time. But this performance invariably begins with the famous composition “Barcelona” performed by Freddie Mercury in a duet with Montserrat Caballe. Thousands of observers gather on observation decks and in nearby restaurants to see the amazing sight.
Official website: https://www.barcelona.cat
29. Barcelona Aquarium
Transparent 80-meter underwater glass tunnel at the Paul Hermans Aquarium in Barcelona
In addition to iconic places and sensational monuments, there are other, non-obvious sights of Barcelona that are no less interesting from a tourist point of view. One of these places is the Barcelona Aquarium, the largest among European aquariums, with a total volume of 6 million liters, housing about 11 thousand marine inhabitants represented by 4.5 hundred species. There are 14 reservoirs in total, dividing marine fauna into representatives of different climatic zones of the planet. Each section is a mini-sample of a specific body of water: sea depths, shallow waters, freshwater rivers and salt lakes, coral caves and other types of underwater world. The main value is a huge aquarium with a long tunnel, along the bottom of which you can walk, immersed in the marine world. There is a whole educational zone for young visitors, where you can imagine yourself as an explorer of the sea.
Official website: https://www.aquariumbcn.com
30. Barcelonetta Beach
City beach on the wide sandy spit of the Mediterranean Sea in Barcelona 2Bbrother
The name of Barcelonetta is not only one of the coastal urban areas, but also a magnificent public beach with developed infrastructure, which has become a favorite vacation spot for citizens and tourists. In the mornings, you can see fans of an active lifestyle jogging along the water’s edge, and in the evenings, music groups and street performers often play, mass events and concerts are organized. The beach is completely sandy, has a convenient entrance to the water, is equipped with showers, sun loungers, and has beach equipment rental points. There are special areas for children with attractions, and you can diversify your vacation and refresh yourself in any of the nearby cafes and restaurants. Guests of the city who want to stay near the beach can stay in one of the hotels in the area.
Read also about the sights of Valencia and be inspired to travel further in Spain.
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