My parents and I ended our trip to Spain in Barcelona. I was so excited to see all of Barcelona’s famous sites that I had heard so much about! Barcelona has a rich cultural heritage, particularly renowned for the architectural works of Antoni Gaudi. I hope you enjoy this three-day itinerary for beautiful Barcelona!
DAY 1
Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar
Start your first day at the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar. Built in the 1300’s, this church is a beautiful example of Catalan Gothic architecture.
Plaça del Rei
On your way to the Cathedral of Barcelona, pass through the Plaça del Rei, a 14th-century medieval square in the Gothic Quarter.
Cathedral of Barcelona
The Cathedral of Barcelona is the Gothic cathedral and seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona. Both the exterior and the interior of this church are absolutely stunning! Make sure to check out the cloister as well. I also highly recommend taking the elevator to the roof for amazing views of the church spires and of Barcelona!
Plaça Sant Jaume
Make your way to the Plaça Sant Jaume, a square in the centre of the Old City. This square is the administrative heart of the city because the Palace of the Generalitat of Catalonia and the City Hall are located here across from one another.
Mercado de La Boqueria
Onto one of my favourite places in Barcelona, the Boqueria Market! The first mention of the Boqueria dates from 1217, when tables were installed near the old city gate to sell meat. There are many great markets in Barcelona, but the Boqueria is the most popular.
Plaça Reial
End your day at the beautiful Plaça Reial, a square in the Gothic Quarter known for its lampposts designed by Antoni Gaudi. This square is especially popular at night because it has many restaurants and some of the city’s most famous nightclubs.
DAY 2
La Rambla
This morning, you’ll be walking along La Rambla, the most famous street in Barcelona. This tree-lined pedestrian street runs through the heart of the city centre.
Plaça de Catalunya
The end of La Rambla will bring you to the Plaça de Catalunya. This square is considered to be Barcelona’s city centre. Some of the city’s most important streets meet here and the square is known for its beautiful fountains and statues.
Casa Batlló
A short walk away is the Casa Batlló, a famous house designed by Antoni Gaudi. Such an interesting design!
Casa Milà
On the way to La Sagrada Familia, you will pass Casa Milà. This modernist building is the last private residence designed by Antoni Gaudi.
La Sagrada Familia
Onto one of Barcelona’s most popular sites, La Sagrada Familia. This spectacular Roman Catholic basilica was designed by Antoni Gaudi. Gaudi devoted the remainder of his life to completing this church and he is buried in the crypt.
Take a moment to admire the exterior of the basilica. The façades and doors are so beautiful.
La Sagrada Familia has the most unique church interior I have ever seen. The columns and beautiful stained glass are unbelievable. Definitely a must-see in Barcelona!
There is also an option to go up the church steeples (by reservation in advance). This is a cool experience and you’ll have great views!
Park Güell
End your day in Park Güell, a beautiful public park with gardens, buildings, and architectural elements designed by Gaudi.
DAY 3
Plaça d’Espanya
Start your day at the Plaça d’Espanya, one of Barcelona’s biggest and most important squares. The Plaça d’Espanya was built for the 1929 world’s fair. This square has a beautiful fountain at the centre, Venetian Towers, a bullring, and a view of the beautiful Palau Nacional down the street.
Montjuïc
Make your way to the Montjuïc cable car. This will take you up the Montjuïc hill to Montjuïc Castle.
Montjuïc Castle is an old military fortress dating back to 1640. Walk around the fortress and enjoy the views over Barcelona!
Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
End your time in Barcelona at the Magic Fountain of Montjuic. This fountain is situated just below the Palau Nacional. The Magic Fountain shows a spectacular display colour, light, music and water acrobatics at night. The first show was on May 19, 1929 during the world’s fair. Seeing this fantastic show is the perfect way to end your trip!
I hope that this three-day itinerary helps you for your future trips to Barcelona!
