Barcelona Spain 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring La Rambla and Gothic Quarter

Places to Go:

  • La Rambla: Stroll along this iconic pedestrian street, lined with cafes, street performers, and shops.
  • Gothic Quarter: Wander through the narrow streets of this historic neighborhood, exploring its charming squares, churches, and architecture.

Activities:

  • Visit La Boqueria Market: Sample local delicacies and drinks at this world-famous market (open from 8 am to 6 pm).
  • Explore Barcelona Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture and beautiful cloisters of this 13th-century cathedral.

Where to Eat:

  • Can Culleretes (Calle de l’Escudella, 10): Savor traditional Catalan cuisine in this cozy, family-run restaurant.
  • Els Sortidors (Carrer dels Assaladors, 1): Enjoy delicious tapas and local wines at this lively bar.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Espana (L’Aromatica, 23-25): Relax in the heart of La Rambla at this modern, boutique hotel.
  • Hostal Orleans (Calle de l’Orleans, 1): Unwind in a charming, budget-friendly guesthouse near the Gothic Quarter.

Things to Know:

  • Be aware of pickpocketing and tourist scams in crowded areas like La Rambla.
  • Buy tickets online for popular attractions to avoid long queues.

Transportation:

  • Metro: Use Line 3 (Green) to reach La Rambla (Liceu station) or the Gothic Quarter (Jaume I station).
  • Bus: Take bus number 13 or 30 from Plaça Catalunya to reach La Rambla.

Day 2: Beaches, Park Güell, and Montserrat

Places to Go:

  • Barceloneta Beach: Relax on this popular beach, offering amenities like showers and sunbeds.
  • Park Güell: Marvel at Antoni Gaudí’s iconic mosaic benches, stunning architecture, and panoramic views (open from 10 am to 6 pm).
  • Montserrat (1-hour train ride): Visit this scenic mountain range, featuring the monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat.

Activities:

  • Beach Day: Soak up the sun, take a dip in the Mediterranean, or try water sports.
  • Visit Casa Batlló: Explore another iconic Gaudí landmark, known for its colorful, wavy façade (open from 9 am to 6 pm).

Where to Eat:

  • Cal Pep (Carrer de Gracia, 2): Indulge in traditional Catalan cuisine and local wines at this cozy restaurant.
  • La Pescaderia (Avinguda del Litoral, 34): Savor fresh seafood and beachside views at this popular fish market-turned-restaurant.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel O (Carrer de Ausiàs Marc, 25): Enjoy modern comfort near Park Güell.
  • Hostal Colón (Calle del Colon, 1): Relax in a budget-friendly guesthouse near the beach.

Things to Know:

  • Buy tickets online for popular attractions like Park Güell and Casa Batlló.
  • Be prepared for crowds at popular beaches during peak season.

Transportation:

  • Metro: Use Line 4 (Yellow) to reach Barceloneta Beach (Barceloneta station).
  • FGC Train: Take the train from Plaça Espanya to Montserrat (approximately €12 return).

Day 3: Modernism and Camp Nou

Places to Go:

  • La Pedrera (Carrer de les Corts Catalanes, 1-3): Explore another iconic Gaudí landmark, featuring an undulating stone façade.
  • Camp Nou Stadium: Visit the home of FC Barcelona, one of the world’s most famous football clubs (open for guided tours).

Activities:

  • Visit the Picasso Museum (Carrer de Montcada, 1): Discover an extensive collection of Pablo Picasso’s works (open from 10 am to 8 pm).
  • Take a Stroll along Passeig de Gracia: Admire the Modernist architecture and upscale boutiques lining this iconic avenue.

Where to Eat:

  • Tickets Bar (Avinguda del Paral·lel, 1): Savor innovative tapas and drinks at this lively, award-winning bar.
  • El Xampanyet (Carrer de Montcada, 22): Enjoy traditional Catalan cuisine and local wines in a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Casa Campera (Carrer de les Corts Catalanes, 1-3): Relax in a modern, boutique hotel near La Pedrera.
  • Hostal Abat Cerdanya (Calle dels Abat Cerdanya, 1): Unwind in a budget-friendly guesthouse near Camp Nou Stadium.

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds at popular attractions like the Picasso Museum and Camp Nou Stadium.
  • Buy tickets online for guided tours of Camp Nou Stadium.

Transportation:

  • Metro: Use Line 3 (Green) to reach La Pedrera (Passeig de Gracia station).
  • FGC Train: Take the train from Plaça Espanya to Camp Nou Stadium (approximately €2 return).

Additional Tips and Information

  • Buy a HOP-UP ticket for unlimited public transportation and discounts on attractions.
  • Learn some basic Catalan phrases, like “bon dia” (good morning) and “gràcies” (thank you).
  • Be prepared for crowds and long queues at popular attractions during peak season.
  • Take advantage of free Wi-Fi in many public spaces, including parks and beaches.

Enjoy your trip to Barcelona!