Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Barcelona: Ultimate Sightseeing Guide

Come for Gaudí’s “curves, organic shapes, and flowing lines,” but stay for Barcelona’s electrifying nightlife, fabulous cuisine led by a clutch of Catalan chefs crafting gourmet tapas dishes, golden beaches, and rooftop bars serving one-of-a-kind cocktails with city views.

The capital of Catalonia, tucked between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, comes alive, with the medieval alleys of the Gothic Quarter thrumming with the rhythm of Rumba Catalana set against the soaring spires of the Barcelona Cathedral. Barcelona boasts the enchanting La Sagrada Família, the surreal Park Güell and the Montjuïc castle with panoramic views, Gothic, Modenisme and avant-garde architectural influences, and colorful festivals. A little detour to Barceloneta, and you’ll find yourself in a haven of golden beaches, summer cocktails, and live DJs. Grab a coffee and xuixo between visits to Casa Batlló and shopping sprees on Passeig de Gracia, and veer off down the lanes of El Born and the Gothic Quarter to get that signature Catalan look.

Fancy discovering the trendy streets of El Born and the azure beaches of Barceloneta? Don’t miss our Barcelona Neighborhoods Guide for an insider look at every barrio — from bohemian quarters to upscale shopping districts.

If you’re a foodie at heart, you’ll love our Hidden Bites, Secret Sips & Sunshine Tips by Nancy Sevilla, packed with local dining gems, cocktail hideaways, and sunny-day escapes.

And while the best way to discover hidden gems and cover the main Barcelona attractions is on foot, booking an effortless Kiwitaxi airport transfer from Barcelona El Prat airport to your hotel offers a stylish and effortless start to your holiday.

Here’s the best things to do in Barcelona, Spain.

Perched above the city with sweeping views of the Barcelona skyline, Park Güell is one of the most enchanting and imaginative spaces ever created by Antoni Gaudí, and a standout among the top things to do in Barcelona.

Originally conceived as an upscale residential complex, the project evolved into a fantastical public park where nature, architecture, and surreal artistry merge in perfect harmony. Gaudí embedded layers of symbolism drawn from nature, religion, mythology, and Catalan folklore. At the heart of Park Güell lies the iconic El Drac, a vibrant mosaic dragon that welcomes visitors at the grand staircase, and one of the most photographed symbols of Barcelona.

As you wander through the park’s landscape of flowing forms, whimsical structures, and vibrant mosaic-covered surfaces that seem to grow organically from the earth, admire the serpentine bench of the Plaza de la Natura (formerly the Greek Theater) and the serene Austria Garden. Every element in the park, including walls that ripple like waves or resemble the bark of trees, is designed to blur the boundaries between the natural and the surreal.

Gaudí incorporated sloping viaducts to help visitors navigate the steep terrain with ease, an innovation that has since inspired modern landscape architects worldwide. As you explore this colorful labyrinth, you'll also find the Gaudí House Museum and terraces offering unbeatable views of Barcelona.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Park Güell is one of the most iconic things to do in Barcelona, Spain.

Tip: While the monumental zone is ticketed, large parts of the park are free and still beautifully designed. If you're on a tight budget or time, you can enjoy much of Gaudí’s vision without spending anything.

Antoni Gaudí’s iconic masterpieces, Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera) are must-see stops among the top things to do in Barcelona and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Casa Batlló, or the House of Bones, with its fluid lines, dragon-scale roof, and shimmering façade, blurs the line between reality and imagination. From Gaudí’s signature trencadís mosaics to the intricate woodwork, elegant balconies, flowing iron railings, and light-filled courtyard, every detail is impeccable. Bright colors bring the space to life: dark gray stucco is softened by gentle green window frames and contrasted with airy, light-toned railings.

Just a short walk away, Casa Milà, or La Pedrera, offers a bolder experience. With its undulating stone façade and twisted wrought-iron balconies, it broke away from architectural norms of its time. Gaudí designed the interior around an innovative column system, eliminating the need for load-bearing walls and allowing for open-plan living. The rooftop, one of the most photographed Barcelona attractions, is a surreal landscape of chimneys and ventilation towers that look more like abstract sculptures than functional elements. Just let your imagination run wild as you wander through the terrace, strewn with impressive staircases and sculptural chimneys: Mushrooms, meringues, or medieval knights standing guard?

And while you’re in the neighborhood, don’t miss the chance to shop at the elegant Passeig de Gràcia till you drop. From high-fashion boutiques like Chanel, Prada, and Loewe to stylish local designers and flagship stores, Barcelona’s most glamorous avenue offers a rich variety. Even if you’re just window shopping, the beautifully preserved modernist buildings and wide, tree-lined sidewalks create a glamorous, leisurely backdrop for a stroll.

Whether you’re exploring architecture, history, or simply looking for unforgettable things to do in Barcelona, these masterpieces offer an immersive journey into creativity and craftsmanship.

Tip: From the rooftop of Casa Milà, enjoy panoramic views of Barcelona: Sagrada Família in the distance, the city’s iconic grid below, and the sea on the horizon. It’s a surreal and unforgettable vantage point, and one of the most visited Barcelona attractions. And from the rooftop of Casa Batlló, the views are just as magical. Spot the elegant Passeig de Gràcia below and Gaudí’s dragon-backed spine shimmering in the sun.

The Gothic Quarter, Barcelona (Barri Gòtic) is a living museum, with its maze of narrow medieval streets, Roman ruins tucked behind centuries-old façades, Gothic spires stretching toward the sky, and café terrazas serving coffee with style. It’s among the most atmospheric things to do in Barcelona, inviting you to linger in its buzzing plazas, discover medieval cathedrals, stroll by vaulted Gothic arches, and sip sangria in its cozy tapas bars.

The majestic Barcelona Cathedral, or La Seu is unmissable in the Gothic Quarter. Marvel at its intricate Gothic façade, peaceful cloister housing 13 white geese, and radiant stained-glass windows. Just steps away lies Plaça del Rei, a historic square, where you can visit the Palau Reial Major and the MUHBA museum.

For a deeper experience of the Gothic Barcelona, wander through the picturesque Plaçeta del Pí, a quiet, intimate square nestled behind the 14th-century Santa Maria del Pí church, the neo-Gothic Pont del Bisbe, Plaça Sant Felip Neri, and the vibrant Plaça Reial, a vibrant square framed by palm trees and arcades, where Gaudí’s distinctive lampposts add yet another layer to this fascinating neighborhood.

Tip: Visit underground galleries like Base Elements or Artevistas for a creative side of the Gothic Quarter.

El Born, also known as La Ribera, is one of the most captivating things to do in Barcelona for travelers seeking a unique blend of history, modern edge, electrifying nightlife, artistic flair, and effortlessly cool energy.

Once the site of medieval tournaments and later reshaped by the turmoil of the 1714 siege, El Born is a cultural and social hub that hums with buzzing nightlife (think Dr. Stravinsky or Marula Café), cozy wine bars, live music venues, and open-air plazas. If you’re a history buff, visit Santa Maria del Mar and the El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria. If you’re after Barcelona’s authentic side, stroll through Passeig del Born lined with artisan shops, independent art galleries, tapas bars, and outdoor terraces. And if you’re a fashionista, look for treasure troves in concept stores, artisan shops, and designer ateliers scattered throughout tucked-away streets like Carrer dels Banys Vells or Carrer de l’Allada-Vermell.

Tip: Don’t miss the Ciutadella Park right next door, a historic and scenic green escape, with locals rowing boats on the shimmering lake, chatting near Gaudí’s exuberant Cascada Monumental, and picnicking under palm trees.

There’s more to Barça than the ancient Gothic lanes and masterpieces of Gaudí. Gràcia might not be as popular as the bustling Gothic Quarter, but it’s the best area to stay in Barcelona for travelers who want to live more like a local in a multiethnic and arty barrio.

Once a separate town before it was absorbed by Barcelona in the late 19th century, Gràcia still maintains its own authentic flavor, village atmosphere, and distinctly Catalan identity. With narrow, winding streets, smaller buildings, bohemian charm, a village-like atmosphere, and lower rents, Gràcia exudes a relaxed and genuinely local atmosphere. Wander through its web of narrow pedestrian streets and you'll find trendy shops selling bikes and vintage clothing, ethnic restaurants, lively wine bars, local markets, vegan cafés, craft stores, artist-run galleries, and ethnic timeworn vermuterias and mom-and-pop shops that have stood for generations.

Life here revolves around countless charming Plaças from Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia to Plaça del Sol, filled with families, students, street musicians tuning a guitar, and elderly neighbors chatting in Catalan on shady benches. Gràcia is also home to the surreal Park Güell, one of Barcelona’s most magical sights. This whimsical sprawling park designed by Antoni Gaudí features his signature mosaic tiles and modernist sculptures. Discover the mosaic dragon fountain that commands the park’s central staircase, the Sala Hipóstila, colorful ceramic lizards, undulating benches, and fairytale gatehouses. Also make sure to climb the Turó de les 3 Creus for panoramic views of the city and sea. Don’t miss Casa Vicens, Gaudí's very first house, a vibrant and colorful masterpiece. And if you’re in town in August, the Festes de Gràcia, the annual street festival, offers a truly unique experience transforming the narrow streets into incredibly creative themed decorations, accompanied by concerts and parties.

While Gràcia is not in the old town, it’s still well-connected to the city center via metro. Many travelers value its easy pace, authenticity, and a more residential rhythm of life. So, if you're wondering where to stay in Barcelona for the local feel without sacrificing comfort, Gràcia might just be your spot.

Best for: Long-stay travelers, artists, couples, families, and anyone who prefers an authentic, local feel over tourist crowds.

Pros: Local, relaxed, and village-like atmosphere; charming plazas and pedestrian streets; close to Park Güell; less touristy; an excellent food and bar scene

Cons: A bit farther from major attractions; some hills; not ideal for nightlife-seekers who want to be in the thick of things.

Hotel Pick: Casa Gràcia – A stylish boutique stay at the junction of Gràcia and Eixample, offering boho-chic rooms, a leafy terrace, and a community feel that fits perfectly with the barrio’s creative spirit.

Whether you’re a Picasso fan or just curious about Barcelona’s medieval past and architectural heritage, the Picasso museum (Museu Picasso) is well worth your time. It’s situated on Carrer de Montcada, a historic street in El Born renowned for its well-preserved medieval palaces, five of which house the museum's collection.

Dating from the 13th to 15th centuries, the Gothic palaces of Palau Aguilar, Palau Baró de Castellet, Palau Meca, Casa Mauri, and Palau Finestres are examples of Catalan civil Gothic architecture, blending functionality and elegance. While each palace tells its own story, these five adjoining structures feature charming courtyards, open-air staircases, pointed arches, and delicate carvings. Their exteriors tend to be modest, but the interiors reveal ornate coffered ceilings, intricate carvings, traces of medieval frescoes, and neoclassical touches.

The Picasso Museum collection features the early genius of Picasso and his enduring bond with the city that shaped him. This is where you come to trace the raw, emotional brushstrokes of an artist in the making.

With around 5000 works, the collection zeroes in on Picasso’s early evolution, from his First Communion and Science and Charity, to the Blue Period, and the Las Meninas series. Discover glimpses of turn-of-the-century Barcelona in portraits of bohemian friends from Els Quatre Gats, and look out for elegant ceramics, delicate drawings, and personal touches.

Visiting the Picasso Museum is one of the best things to do in Barcelona, Spain if you’re looking to explore the city’s Gothic heritage while soaking in unconventional art.

There’s nothing like the Gaudí experience in Barcelona. But between hitting up the Museu Picasso, marveling at Gothic Barcelona, or sipping deliciously cold sangria, Barcelona has a lot to offer beach lovers. To truly grasp the pulse of Barcelona, you should also tan on the Barceloneta Beach and club-hop into its night. Barceloneta is Barcelona’s most popular and vibrant urban beach, where you can take a stroll along the Passeig Marítim (Promenade), go cycling, rollerblading, or windsurfing, and even jump into a spontaneous beach volleyball match — between all of the sun, sand, and chiringuitos. As the sun sets, Barceloneta Beach transforms into a lively hub of music, dancing, and partying. Themed parties are the norm, and international DJs light up beachside venues like Opium and Pacha, creating an electric atmosphere where people dance to the beat all night long.

Barceloneta’s superb rooftop bars serve expertly crafted exotic cocktails with Mediterranean views. Fresh seafood is the star of the Barceloneta food scene, from grilled prawns to saffron-kissed paella served beachside. A must-visit? Xiringuito Escribà for the seafood paella.

For casual bites, you can’t go wrong with tapas. Think spicy chorizo, or garlicky pan con tomate at a sun-drenched chiringuito, all perfectly paired with an icy sangria or a citrusy cocktail crafted just steps from the sea.

Whether you’re vibing to a deep house at a beachfront bar, lounging with your toes in the sand, trying paddleboarding, watching the sunset reflect off the iconic sail-shaped W Hotel, or taking a selfie at the “Wounded Star” sculpture, the perfect day at the Barceloneta beach, is one of the coolest things to do in Barcelona.

Tip: Don’t miss the Sant Sebastia beach with the cleanest water in Barcelona. It’s also a favorite among nudists, so expect a laid-back, anything-goes vibe.

Tucked just off La Rambla, Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, or simply La Boqueria, is a festive, colorful, and vibrant market. Dating back to 1217, this historic covered market once catered to medieval vendors but has since transformed into one of the top Barcelona attractions.

Under its iconic iron-and-glass roof, browse over 300 spectacular stalls filled with fresh produce, sizzling seafood, hand-carved jamón ibérico, rare spices, pickled delicacies, and pyramid-shaped displays of tropical fruits, accompanied by the enticing aromas of freshly baked bread.

Shop for high-quality produce, or just sample freshly squeezed juices, xuixo, or gourmet tapas at legendary market bars like El Quim de la Boqueria. Savor traditional dishes like botifarra sausage, baby squid with eggs, or a perfect cortado at the counter at Bar Pinotxo.

Visit the market in early mornings to avoid crowds, and immerse into the flavors of Barcelona. La Boqueria’s lively chatter, rich aromas, and dazzling colors make it a feast for all senses and one of the most iconic things to do in Barcelona especially for food lovers.

Want to explore the top Barcelona attractions and its picturesque outskirts at your own pace? Try Kiwitaxi’s Chauffeur Hire Service for a stress-free and stylish experience.

Whether you’re heading to iconic sights like Park Güell and the Sagrada Família or venturing out to charming coastal towns and scenic wineries, your dedicated chauffeur makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.

Travel at your own pace, enjoy spontaneous tapas stops, and irresistible nights out; Kiwitaxi ensures your journey through Barcelona is as smooth and stylish as the city it takes you through.