Barcelona, Spain-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Gothic Quarter

Morning

  • Arrive at Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) and take a taxi or Aerobús (€5.90) to your accommodation
  • Check-in to a hotel in the Gothic Quarter, such as Hotel Neri or Hotel España Ramblas

Afternoon

  • Visit the iconic Cathedral of Barcelona (€7) and explore the surrounding streets
  • Wander through the narrow alleys of the Gothic Quarter, discovering hidden squares and historic landmarks like ** Plaça Sant Jaume**
  • Stop for lunch at Can Culleretes, a traditional Catalan restaurant serving local dishes

Evening

  • Enjoy a stroll along La Rambla, one of Barcelona’s most famous boulevards
  • Visit Plaça Catalunya, the heart of the city, and take in the lively atmosphere
  • For dinner, head to El Xampanyet, a cozy restaurant serving seafood and sparkling wine

Tips and Insights

  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and keep an eye on your belongings
  • The Gothic Quarter can be quite touristy, but it’s still worth exploring for its rich history and architecture

Day 2: Beaches and Seafront

Morning

  • Start the day with a leisurely walk along Barceloneta Beach, one of the city’s most popular beaches
  • Visit the nearby W Hotel Barcelona, even if it’s just to take a photo in front of its iconic sail-shaped building
  • Grab breakfast at Federal Café, a trendy spot serving delicious pastries and coffee

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll along the Passeig Marítim, the seafront promenade, and enjoy the views of the Mediterranean Sea
  • Stop by the Barcelona Aquarium (€20) to see an array of marine life
  • For lunch, head to Cal Pep, a beachside restaurant serving fresh seafood

Evening

  • Enjoy a sunset drink at CDLC, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the sea
  • For dinner, try El Quim de la Boqueria, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in La Boqueria Market

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular beaches like Barceloneta
  • The seafront promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride

Day 3: Gaudí and Park Güell

Morning

  • Visit Park Güell (free, but €8 to access the monument area), one of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous works
  • Explore the park’s iconic mosaic benches, twisting columns, and stunning views of the city
  • Grab breakfast at Café del Sol, a cozy spot near the park

Afternoon

  • Visit La Pedrera (€12), also known as Casa Milà, another iconic Gaudí landmark
  • Take a stroll along Passeig de Gracia, one of Barcelona’s most upscale shopping streets
  • For lunch, head to El Nacional, a beautifully designed restaurant serving modern Catalan cuisine

Evening

  • Enjoy a flamenco show at Tablao de Carmen, located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter
  • For dinner, try Can Solà, a traditional Catalan restaurant with a cozy atmosphere

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at Park Güell
  • Gaudí’s architecture is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before - take your time to appreciate the details!

Day 4: Montserrat and Wine Country

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Montserrat (train from Plaça Espanya, €12 return), a scenic mountain range about an hour outside Barcelona
  • Visit the Basilica de la Mare de Déu, a stunning monastery nestled in the mountains
  • Enjoy a traditional Catalan lunch at Restaurant Abat

Afternoon

  • Explore the vineyards of the Penedès wine region, such as Bodegas Torres or Albet i Noya
  • Learn about the production process and sample some of Catalonia’s famous wines
  • Return to Barcelona in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner at Tickets Bar, a Michelin-starred tapas restaurant

Tips and Insights

  • Montserrat is a popular day trip, so be prepared for crowds and long lines
  • The Penedès wine region is perfect for wine enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxing afternoon in the countryside

Day 5: Modernism and Departure

Morning

  • Visit Casa Batlló (€25), another iconic Gaudí landmark with stunning architecture
  • Explore the nearby Passeig de Gracia, one of Barcelona’s most upscale shopping streets
  • Grab breakfast at Escribà, a historic pastry shop with delicious treats

Afternoon

  • Visit the Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA, €10), a museum showcasing contemporary art
  • Take some time to relax and pack up before departing for the airport
  • Depart from Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN)

Tips and Insights

  • Casa Batlló is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and those looking for a unique experience
  • Allow plenty of time to get to the airport and check-in for your departure flight

Transportation

  • Metro: €2.40 per ticket, or purchase a Hola BCN! card (€15) for unlimited travel on public transport for 2 days
  • Bus: €2.40 per ticket, or use the Hola BCN! card
  • Taxi: approximately €10-20 to get around the city

Accommodation

  • Hotel Neri: from €150 per night
  • Hotel España Ramblas: from €120 per night
  • Consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb for more budget-friendly options

Tips and Insights

  • Barcelona is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
  • Learn some basic Catalan phrases to show respect for the local culture
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Catalan dishes, such as pa amb tomàquet or escalivada!