Not sure which to visit? Check out our comparison of both cities to find out which one is best for you.

Comparing Madrid and Barcelona to help you choose your perfect Spanish city break!

Barcelona or Madrid? 

<h3>Barcelona or Madrid?</h3>

By Mia Russell

Spain, a land of rich culture, delectable cuisine and captivating landscapes, offers two of its most enchanting cities for you to explore: Madrid and Barcelona. Each possesses a distinct personality and a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.

But when it comes to choosing your Spanish escape, the main question is: Madrid or Barcelona? Whether you&#39;re drawn to Madrid&#39;s artistic allure or Barcelona&#39;s sun-soaked beaches, both iconic destinations offer unique flavors, sights and experiences.

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When exploring the dynamic Spanish cities of Barcelona and Madrid, you&#39;ll discover that despite their individual identities, they share several intriguing similarities. Here&#39;s a glimpse into these common threads that weave through the rich tapestry of both cities.

Artistic enclaves

One striking similarity is their devotion to the arts. Both Madrid and Barcelona boast world-class cultural institutions that draw art enthusiasts from around the globe. Madrid is celebrated for its prestigious art museums, such as the <a href="https://gocity.com/madrid/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/prado-museum-guided-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Prado</a>, the <a href="https://gocity.com/madrid/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/reina-sofia-museum-guided-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Reina Sofia</a>, and the <a href="https://gocity.com/madrid/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/museo-nacional-thyssen-bornemisza" style="text-decoration:none">Thyssen-Bornemisza</a>, housing a treasure trove of masterpieces.

Meanwhile, Barcelona takes pride in its architectural wonders, crafted by the visionary Antoni Gaud&iacute;. The awe-inspiring <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/sagrada-familia-guided-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia</a>, <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/park-guell-guided-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Park G&uuml;ell</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/casa-batllo" style="text-decoration:none">Casa Batll&oacute;</a> are just a few of the architectural gems that make Barcelona an artistic haven.

What are the similarities between Barcelona and Madrid?

Both cities also share the enchantment of their well-preserved Medieval centers. In Madrid, you can meander through the historic streets of the Austrias neighborhood lined with centuries-old buildings and beautiful plazas.

<a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/old-town-gothic-quarter-tour" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Barcelona&#39;s Gothic Quarter</a>, on the other hand, boasts a labyrinth of narrow alleys and squares, culminating at the breathtaking Gothic Cathedral. Strolling through these cobblestone streets is like stepping into a living history book, regardless of whether you are in Madrid or Barcelona.

Medieval charms

<h3>Top things to do in Barcelona</h3>

Barcelona, a vibrant jewel on Spain&#39;s northeastern coast, offers an array of experiences that will enchant every traveler. From iconic architectural wonders to delightful culinary adventures, here are the top things to do in Barcelona that promise to make your visit unforgettable:

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<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia: begin your Barcelona journey at the awe-inspiring Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia, Antoni Gaud&iacute;&#39;s masterpiece. The basilica&#39;s surreal architecture, intricate facades, and ethereal interior will leave you spellbound. Use your pass to enjoy skip-the-line access and a guided basilica tour with an experienced, arts-trained guide.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Park G&uuml;ell: explore the whimsical world of Park G&uuml;ell, another Gaud&iacute; creation. Wander through the colorful mosaics, playful sculptures, and lush gardens while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Use your pass to get skip-the-ticket-line entry to the park and an experienced, arts-trained guide.</li>
</ul>

<h3>Final thoughts</h3>

In the captivating showdown between Barcelona and Madrid, it&#39;s evident that both cities are definitely worth a visit!

With its artistic marvels and coastal charms, Barcelona beckons with the allure of Antoni Gaud&iacute;&#39;s architectural wonders and the Mediterranean&#39;s soothing embrace. Conversely, Madrid takes pride in its regal elegance, world-class art museums and vibrant urban life that pulses through its historic streets.

Whether you find yourself savoring tapas at a bustling market in Barcelona or wandering through the grandeur of Madrid&#39;s Royal Palace, each city promises a journey rich in culture, history, and unforgettable experiences. The choice between these Spanish gems ultimately depends on your preferences and the adventure you seek.

Barcelona entices with its avant-garde art, architectural treasures, and beachside relaxation&mdash;a Mediterranean dream that speaks to the soul of Catalonia. With its classic charm, impressive museums, and lively neighborhoods, Madrid embodies the essence of Spain&#39;s dynamic capital.

In the end, there&#39;s no definitive winner in the Barcelona versus. Madrid debate because the true victor is you&mdash;the traveler who has the privilege of experiencing the best of both worlds. Whether you are swept away by Barcelona&#39;s artistic fervor or captivated by Madrid&#39;s regal splendor, your Spanish adventure will make memories you&#39;ll carry long after you get back home again.

So grab a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" target="_blank">Barcelona pass</a> and see for yourself!

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">La Ramblas: stroll down La Rambla, Barcelona&#39;s famous tree-lined boulevard. This bustling promenade boasts street performers, shops, cafes, and lively markets like <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/barcelona-ancient-markets-walking-tour" style="text-decoration:none">La Boqueria</a>. Use your pass to explore several markets on a free walking tour of Barcelona.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Gothic Quarter: immerse yourself in history at the Gothic Quarter (Barri G&ograve;tic), a maze of narrow streets, medieval buildings, and hidden squares. Don&#39;t miss the Barcelona Cathedral and the Pla&ccedil;a Reial. Use your pass to enjoy a three-hour walking tour of the Gothic Quarter and the Old City.</li>
	<li>Casa Batll&oacute; and Casa Mil&agrave;: explore Gaud&iacute;&#39;s architectural brilliance further by visiting <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/casa-batllo" style="text-decoration:none">Casa Batll&oacute;</a> and Casa Mil&agrave;. These modernist marvels showcase Gaud&iacute;&#39;s innovative designs and attention to detail. Use your pass for free admission to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Magic Fountain of Montju&iuml;c: witness the magical light and music show at the <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/montjuic-walking-tour-magical-side-barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Magic Fountain of Montju&iuml;c</a>. This enchanting spectacle takes place against the backdrop of the National Palace. Use your pass to enjoy a free two-hour walking tour of Barcelona&#39;s Montju&iuml;c district.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Picasso Museum: discover the early works of the iconic artist Pablo Picasso at <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/life-picasso-walking-tour-museum-entry" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">the Picasso Museum</a>. The collection includes thousands of pieces that provide insight into his artistic evolution. Use your pass for free admission to the museum and a one-hour walking tour with an expert guide.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Beaches: soak up the Mediterranean sun at Barcelona&#39;s beautiful beaches, such as Barceloneta and Bogatell. Relax on the golden sands, dip in the sea, or enjoy beachfront dining.</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Montserrat: take a day trip to <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/montserrat-your-own-bus-transfer" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Montserrat</a>, a stunning mountain range with a Benedictine monastery perched on its cliffs. The breathtaking views and spiritual ambiance make it a memorable excursion. Use your pass for a free bus ticket to Montserrat.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Camp Nou: if you&#39;re a football fan, don&#39;t miss a visit to Camp Nou, home to FC Barcelona. Explore the museum, walk through the stadium, and feel the passion of Catalonia&#39;s football culture.</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Flamenco shows: experience the soul-stirring art of flamenco with a live performance. Several venues in Barcelona offer passionate and authentic shows.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Tapas and dining: savor the delectable world of Spanish cuisine with tapas. Try traditional dishes like patatas bravas, jam&oacute;n ib&eacute;rico, and paella at local tapas bars and restaurants.</li>
</ul>

Barcelona&#39;s charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend modernity with tradition, offering a taste of Catalonia&#39;s rich culture at every corner. Whether wandering the Gothic Quarter&#39;s historic streets or marveling at Gaud&iacute;&#39;s architectural wonders, this city promises an unforgettable adventure.

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Madrid, the vibrant heart of Spain, beckons you with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and dynamic experiences. From majestic palaces to bustling markets and delectable cuisine, here are the top things to do in Madrid to ensure your visit is nothing short of spectacular:

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Royal Palace: begin your Madrid journey at the Royal Palace (Palacio Real), an opulent masterpiece that reflects Spanish royalty&#39;s grandeur. Wander through its sumptuous rooms, opulent halls, and the charming Sabatini Gardens. Use your pass to enjoy free entry and a 90-minute tour of the palace.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Puerta del Sol: visit Puerta del Sol, Madrid&#39;s bustling central square. Admire the iconic Tio Pepe neon sign, the bear and strawberry tree statue, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Use your pass to enjoy a Madrid Sightseeing Segway Tour and take in all the city&#39;s sights.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Prado Museum: immerse yourself in art at the Prado Museum, home to a staggering collection of European masterpieces by artists like Vel&aacute;zquez, Goya, and El Greco. Use your pass for a skip-the-line guided tour of the museum.</li>
</ul>

Top things to do in Madrid

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Retiro Park: escape the urban bustle at <a href="https://gocity.com/madrid/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/retiro-park-bike-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro)</a>. Stroll along tree-lined paths, row a boat on the lake, and admire the stunning Crystal Palace. Use your pass to join a guided bike tour of the park.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Plaza Mayor: discover the grandeur of Plaza Mayor, a historic square surrounded by charming cafes and vibrant street life. It&#39;s an ideal spot for people-watching.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: explore the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, a treasure trove of art spanning from the Middle Ages to the present, showcasing works by artists from around the world. Use your pass for free entry to the museum.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Gran V&iacute;a: take a leisurely walk along Gran V&iacute;a, Madrid&#39;s main shopping and entertainment street. Marvel at the iconic buildings and indulge in retail therapy.</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Tapas: savor the culinary delights of Madrid with tapas. Sample classic dishes like patatas bravas, Spanish omelette (tortilla espa&ntilde;ola), and jam&oacute;n ib&eacute;rico at local tapas bars.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Mercado de San Miguel: visit the Mercado de San Miguel, a food market housed in an exquisite iron structure. Try a variety of Spanish delicacies and tapas.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Flamenco Show: immerse yourself in the passion and rhythm of Spain with a flamenco show. Madrid boasts numerous venues where you can experience this captivating art form.</li>
</ul>

Bernabeu Stadium: if you&#39;re a football enthusiast, tour the <a href="https://gocity.com/madrid/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/bernabeu-stadium-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Santiago Bernabeu Stadium</a>, the home of Real Madrid. Explore the stadium&#39;s museum and relish its football history. Use your pass to enjoy free admission to the stadium.

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Neighborhoods: wander through diverse neighborhoods like Malasa&ntilde;a, Chueca, and La Latina, each with its unique character, offering quirky shops, trendy bars, and charming plazas.</li>
</ul>

Madrid invites you to dive headfirst into its spirited culture, indulge in culinary delights, and immerse yourself in art and history. With its vibrant atmosphere and boundless energy, the Spanish capital promises a memorable adventure that will leave you captivated and longing to return.

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<h3>Tapas traditions</h3>

Spain&#39;s culinary delights are yet another common thread that binds these cities. While the tapas culture is cherished throughout Spain, Madrid, and Barcelona each offer their unique twists on these delectable small plates. Use your pass to enjoy a <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/pintxos-tasting-and-gothic-quarter-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Tapas Tasting and Gothic Quarter Tour</a> with delicious pintxos at the end of your tour.

Embark on a tapas adventure along the lively Calle de las Huertas in Madrid, where traditional tapas bars line the streets.

Barcelona&#39;s tapas scene is a bit more dispersed, with the bustling El Born district as a go-to spot. Whether you&#39;re savoring Madrid&#39;s patatas bravas or Barcelona&#39;s fresh seafood tapas, the flavors of Spain are bound to leave your taste buds delighted.

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<h3>What are the differences between Barcelona and Madrid?</h3>

As you explore the vibrant Spanish cities of Barcelona and Madrid, you&#39;ll quickly notice that while they share some commonalities, they also boast distinct characteristics that set them apart. Here are some of the notable differences between these two dynamic destinations:

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Barcelona is renowned for its <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/barcelona-architecture-tour" style="text-decoration:none">avant-garde architecture</a>, largely shaped by the visionary Antoni Gaud&iacute;. His masterpieces, such as the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia and Park G&uuml;ell, define the cityscape with their whimsical and organic designs.

Madrid showcases a more classical and regal architectural style, epitomized by landmarks like the <a href="https://gocity.com/madrid/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/royal-palace-guided-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Royal Palace</a> and the elegant boulevards of the Gran V&iacute;a. The architectural contrast between the two cities reflects their distinct historical influences.

Architectural marvels

<h3>Art and culture</h3>

While both cities celebrate the arts, they have different emphases. Madrid takes pride in its world-class art museums, including the Prado, which houses an extensive collection of European art.

On the other hand, Barcelona is synonymous with artistic innovation and is home to institutions like the Joan Mir&oacute; Foundation and the Barcelona <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/contemporary-art" style="text-decoration:none">Museum of Contemporary Art</a> (MACBA). The creative vibe in Barcelona leans toward modern and avant-garde expressions, whereas Madrid focuses on classical and historical works.

Barcelona&#39;s Mediterranean location grants it access to picturesque beaches along the city&#39;s coastline. The golden sands of Barceloneta Beach and the seaside promenades offer a unique coastal charm. Madrid, situated inland, doesn&#39;t have a beach, but it compensates with its lively urban atmosphere and vibrant street life.

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Beaches and coastal vibes

Barcelona&#39;s nightlife is renowned for its beachfront clubs and vibrant outdoor bars, especially in neighborhoods like Barri G&ograve;tic and El Raval. Madrid, however, boasts a diverse and eclectic nightlife scene that spans everything from traditional tapas bars to cutting-edge clubs. The city&#39;s neighborhoods, like Malasa&ntilde;a and Chueca, are known for their lively nightlife.

Nightlife and dining

<h3>Language and culture</h3>

Catalan and Spanish are the official languages in Barcelona, reflecting the region&#39;s unique identity. You&#39;ll often hear both languages spoken; many signs are in Catalan. Spanish is the primary language in Madrid, and you&#39;ll find that the city embodies the heart of Spanish culture.

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Spanish cuisine is diverse, and each region has its specialties. While both cities offer an array of culinary delights, Barcelona&#39;s proximity to the sea influences its seafood-based dishes, such as paella and seafood tapas.

As the capital, Madrid offers a broader representation of regional Spanish cuisine, including hearty dishes like cocido madrile&ntilde;o (a stew) and the famous bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich).

These differences between Barcelona and Madrid add to the allure of exploring both cities, allowing you to experience the richness of Spain&#39;s diverse cultural landscape. Whether you prefer Barcelona&#39;s architectural wonders or Madrid&#39;s classical elegance, each city offers a unique and unforgettable Spanish adventure.

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Regional cuisine

Barcelona or Madrid?  By Mia Russell Spain, a land of rich culture, delectable cuisine and captivating landscapes, offers two of its most enchanting cities for you to explore: Madrid and Barcelona. Each possesses a distinct personality and a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.  

Visit Barcelona or Madrid Comparison | Go City®

Get the best views of the city from the Port Cable Car and the Montjuic Cable Car - all you need to know on which is which.

Not sure which cable car to check out in Barcelona? We've got all you need to know for both!

Cable Cars in Barcelona

Could a birds-eye view be the best way to see Barcelona? Of all the<a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/blog/best-viewpoints-in-barcelona" style="text-decoration:none"> viewpoints</a> from which to get a new perspective on the city, there&rsquo;s none more exciting than the Barcelona cable cars. But wait - not all visitors realise that there are in fact two cable cars - some red and some silver, taking different routes. So which Barcelona cable car is which? Don&rsquo;t be confused - read on for the full low-down on the city&rsquo;s very own high-flyers.

First things first. The Transbordador Aeri del Port (let&rsquo;s just call it the Port Cable Car shall we?) is not to be confused with the Telef&egrave;ric de Montju&iuml;c (the Montju&iuml;c Cable Car). The Port Cable Car glides just under a mile across the old harbour of Port Vell to the slopes of Montju&iuml;c mountain. The <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/barcelona-cable-car" style="text-decoration:none">Montju&iuml;c Cable Car</a> (which requires different tickets) is a shorter ride, in smaller cars, to the top of the mountain.

What’s the difference between the Barcelona cable cars?

<h3>Barcelona Port Cable Car</h3>

You only need look up from the port area to see the distinctive red and white cars of the Transbordador Aeri del Port, cutting across the city skyline. Originally designed for the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition these large, traditional-style cable cars are one of Barcelona&rsquo;s most recognisable icons, though perhaps not for the faint-hearted.

<h3>How to get to the Barcelona Port Cable Car?</h3>

To try them for yourself, you&rsquo;ll need the Line 4 Metro to Barceloneta Beach, then it&rsquo;s a short walk to the boarding station. You may want to book in advance in the summer months when queues can be long. In winter, however, rides can be cancelled because of bad weather, so you might consider waiting until you arrive. Open until 8pm in the summer months, you can choose a single or return journey. Be aware that the Port Cable Car is not wheelchair accessible.

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Stand in line to ride the elevator a dizzying 75 meters up a metal tower, Torre Sant Sebasti&agrave;. If you&rsquo;re really feeling fancy and plan well ahead you could even book a table at Torre de Alta Mar, the gourmet Mediterranean restaurant right at the top!

During the Spanish Civil War the cable car was closed and the cables removed so the towers could be used to defend the city. Happily for us it was re-instated in 1963 and renovated in the 1990s, so you&rsquo;re all ready to fly.&nbsp;

After that initial frisson of fear as your car sets off, your bravery is rewarded with a breath-taking view of both the port and the city. Hang over the old harbour, admire the superyachts and cruise liners at the marina and keep an eye out for key sights including the <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/sagrada-familia-guided-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Sagrada Familia</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/blog/things-to-do-on-la-rambla-barcelona" style="text-decoration:none">Las Ramblas</a>.&nbsp;

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What can you see from the Barcelona Port Cable Car?

The trip, of just less than a mile, lasts around 10 minutes. Hold your breath midway as the car rumbles through the central tower, Torre del Jaume I. Because there are no seats, you and your fellow passengers can stand and move around, giving you the chance to check out the different views in each direction.

You&rsquo;ll land at Estac&iacute;on de Miramar, the Miramar Gardens viewpoint on Montju&iuml;c Mountain, where you can enjoy the views afresh, from solid ground. Roam the beautiful Botanical Gardens or perhaps relax with a drink on the terrace of the Hotel Miramar.&nbsp;

Explore the streets of <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/poble-espanyol" style="text-decoration:none">Poble Espanyol</a>, a recreated Spanish village that combines history and culture with workshops, shops and places to eat.

And when you&#39;re ready for even greater heights it&rsquo;s just a five minute walk to the base station of the Montju&iuml;c Cable Car.

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Where does the Barcelona Port Cable Car go?

The <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/barcelona-cable-car" style="text-decoration:none">Tel&egrave;feric de Montju&iuml;c</a> was introduced in the 70s to give visitors another way to reach the mountain top. Today new, shiny cars, carrying eight people and accessible to wheelchairs, can whisk you up the 100 meter vertical ascent in comfort.

How to get to the Montju&iuml;c Cable Car?

If you&rsquo;re having a two cable car kinda day maybe you&rsquo;ll transfer from the Port Cable Car station - just a few minutes&rsquo; walk away.

If you&rsquo;re heading there direct, the easiest way to reach the Montju&iuml;c Cable Car base station is to take the Metro to Parallel station, then transfer to the Funicular de Montju&iuml;c. You can also reach it aboard <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/bus-turistic" style="text-decoration:none">The Hop-On Hop-Off bus turistico</a>, or line 50 and 55 buses.

The Montjuic Cable car is open until 9pm in peak season and it&rsquo;s easy to book online for either a single or return trip.

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Montjuïc Cable Car

From the base station at Parc de Montju&iuml;c it&rsquo;s an easy walk to the Olympic stadium, which hosted the 1992 Barcelona Olympic. As well as exploring Poble Espanol and the beautiful Miramar Gardens, don&rsquo;t miss the Joan Mir&oacute; Foundation, showcasing the works of the famous Catalan artist.

Where does the Montju&iuml;c Cable Car go?

When you&rsquo;ve seen those sights, climb aboard for the five minute trip and cruise above the tree tops, straight to the top of the hill. Discover Montj&uuml;ic Castle, a former fortress and prison, now a Military Museum and drink in the panorama from the terrace of the Terraz Martinez where you can also enjoy a real drink, along with seafood platters and paella said to be among the best in town.&nbsp;

On the way down you&rsquo;ve the option to stop off at Mirador d&rsquo;Alcalde, a &lsquo;belvedere&rsquo;, or series of terraces, for a chance to see more beautiful landscaped gardens and perhaps the most impressive view of the city, the port and the sparkling Mediterranean.

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What to see at Montjuîc

Having exhausted every vista, soar - or stroll - back down again to the Palau Nacional (home of the Museu Nacional d&rsquo;Art de Cataluna (MNAC). Time it right and you can end up back at the bottom of Montju&iuml;c in time for one of Barcelona&rsquo;s most famous attractions, the Magic Fountain show. Stick around until darkness falls so as not to miss the sound-and-light spectacular that wows audiences every half hour.

Palau Nacional and the Magic Fountains of Barcelona

Have we inspired you to new heights? For tickets to the Montju&iuml;c Cable Car, along with around 40 other Barcelona attractions, grab yourself an <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive" style="text-decoration:none">All Inclusive Pass</a>. And travel your own way - with <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us" style="text-decoration:none">Go City</a>. So grab a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" target="_blank">Barcelona pass</a> and see it all!

Best views of Barcelona from the Port Cable Car and the Montjuic Cable Car. All the details of which is which

Cable Cars in Barcelona - Montjuic & Port | Go City®

Best way to get to Barcelona from the airport? Your guide to the easiest, cheapest options from BCN (El Prat) to Barcelona city centre.

Our guide for getting into the city from Barcelona Airport

Barcelona Airport to City Travel Options

<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/8_0.jpg" alt="Image of Adult, Male, Man, Person, Female, Girl, Teen, Bag, Handbag, " loading="lazy">You won’t want to waste any time getting stuck into Barcelona’s best sights....Picture yourself enjoying sensational shopping, tapas treats and spectacular <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/modernism-and-gaudi-walking-tour">Gaudi architecture</a> - all nestled between the sea and the magnificent <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/montserrat-your-own-bus-transfer">Montserrat</a> mountains. How to get there with the minimum of hassle? Here are a few helpful options for the best way to get to Barcelona from the airport. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/13.jpg" alt="Image of Terminal, Airport, Airport Terminal, Scoreboard, " loading="lazy">Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) International Airport (more commonly known as El Prat) is a convenient 10 miles from the city centre, so around 40 minutes by most modes of transport. Remember however that there are two terminals, T1 and T2, with different departure points depending on which way you choose to travel. But don’t panic - we’ll explain all your airport to Barcelona travel options. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/Aerobus.jpg" alt="Image of Bus, Vehicle, Person, License Plate, " loading="lazy"><h3>Shuttle bus from Barcelona airport</h3> Aerobus, the Barcelona Airport Shuttle, is a fast and easy way to get to the city, running every ten minutes, all year round. In just 35 minutes it can whisk you directly to Plaça de Catalunya for just a few Euro. Good news - there’s even on-board wi-fi! Don’t forget though that there’s an Aerobus for each Terminal - A1 from T1 and A2 from T2 (you’ll need to remember the right one for the return). Both make stops at three convenient city locations: Plaça d’Espanya, Gran Via-Urgell and Plaça Universitat, though it’s worth noting that the stops on the outward and return routes are not the same. Instead you can hop on board for the return leg at either Plaça de Catalunya, Sepulveda-Urgell or Plaça d’Espanya. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/5_1.jpg" alt="Image of City, Downtown, Urban, Road, Street, Town Square, Cityscape, Metropolis, " loading="lazy">It’s probably a good idea to buy your ticket online in advance. Once the outward journey is validated at the airport, the return ticket is valid for up to two weeks. You can also pick up a ticket at ATMs in both Terminals 1 and 2 - or onboard the bus, though change is not always given. You’ll find the Terminal 1 Aerobus stop a floor lower than the arrivals hall. Simply walk to the bottom of the arrivals terminal and turn left towards the ramp that leads down to the stop. For Terminal 2 the Aerobus stop is located on the right as you leave the arrivals hall in the area nearest to T2a and T2b. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/11_0.jpg" alt="Image of Terminal, Railway, Train, Train Station, Vehicle, Subway, " loading="lazy"><h3>Train from Barcelona airport</h3> The train, operated by Renfe, is the cheapest way to get to Barcelona from the airport and can have you in reach of the action in around 25 minutes. Happily, the station is just three minutes’ walk from Terminal 2. Should you fly into Terminal 1 you’ll first need to take the free shuttle bus which connects the two terminals - it’s green so you can’t miss it! Climb aboard a train on the R2 North line, departing every 30 minutes, and speed directly to the two city centre stops; Maybe you’ll head directly to Passeig de Gràcia, famous for its shopping and home to Gaudi masterpieces <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/casa-batllo">Casa Battlo</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/la-pedrera">La Pedrera.</a> Or Barcelona Sants (or Sants Estació - the main station) where you can connect to high-speed trains to other parts of Spain. At either stop you can switch to the metro to reach other parts of the city. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/1_1.jpg" alt="Image of Text, " loading="lazy">Tickets are available at ticket offices and vending machines. You could also pick up a Hola BCN! Public transport card which is valid for all journeys on Barcelona’s public transport network for as many days as you choose. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/12_0.jpg" alt="Image of " loading="lazy"><h3>Metro from Barcelona airport</h3> Hopping onto the Metro from the airport to the city centre is another convenient and affordable option, taking around 30 minutes. Look out for the distinctive red and white Metro signs located at the exit of both T1 and T2 terminals and grab your ticket at a vending machine, which also supply BCN public transport cards. There are 15 stops on the L9 line from the airport though, depending on where you want to go in the city, you may need to change. Change at Torrassa to take the red line linking to Universitat or Catalonia Square. Or change at Collblanc for the blue line towards Diagonal or <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/sagrada-familia-guided-tour">Sagrada Familia.</a> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/2_2.jpg" alt="Image of Adult, Female, Person, Woman, " loading="lazy"><h3>Bus from Barcelona airport</h3> If bus travel is your bag, you’ll be wanting bus 46, which runs every 20 minutes from both Terminals 1 and 2. Look out for the TMB logo (Transport Metropolitans de Barcelona manages the buses in the city.) Another economical choice, the bus takes around half an hour to deposit you at Plaça d’Espanya, home of Barcelona’s famous Magic Fountains and perfectly placed for the <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/barcelona-cable-car">Montjüic cable car</a>. Buy your tickets on the bus, where you can also choose a Hola BCN! public transport card. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/9_1.jpg" alt="Image of City, Metropolis, Urban, Bus, Vehicle, Person, Neighborhood, " loading="lazy"><h3>How to get from Barcelona airport at night</h3> If your flight gets in late, don’t despair - the night bus is stll a good way (in fact the only way) to reach the city centre. It departs every 20 minutes from 9.55PM to 4.45AM You’ll need N17 from Terminal T1 or N16 from Terminal T2 (with a number N18 also laid on when there is especially heavy traffic) The N16 (and N18) bus stops are found at the exits of terminals T2a, T2b and T2c. You’ll find the N17 (and N18) bus stop at the exit of Terminal 1 on the left of the flight exit. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/10_0.jpg" alt="Image of Vehicle, Car, " loading="lazy"><h3>Taxi from Barcelona airport</h3> Unsurprisingly the easiest and fastest way to hit the city is to jump in a taxi from the airport. If you are a family or a group it needn’t even be too expensive. Taxis in Barcelona are efficient and well-organised; they’re easy to see (black and yellow) and easy to find at the exit of Terminals T1 and T2. Be aware that there is no standard rate from the airport to the city centre but you can expect to pay around 30€-35€ for the 20-25 minute ride. The minimum fare from the airport is 20€ (which includes the mandatory airport entry &amp; exit fees). So even if you are travelling to an address close to the airport you’ll pay a minimum of 20€. There is an additional night rate for passengers travelling between 8PM and 8AM. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/3_2.jpg" alt="Image of Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Coat, Baggage, Airport, " loading="lazy"><h3>Chauffeur from Barcelona airport</h3> If you really want to start in style - and waste no time - why not consider booking a driver in a private or shared car, which again could prove more economical than you may imagine? You’ll have the reassurance of knowing that you have a ride waiting, whatever time your plane arrives - and you have a ride direct to your hotel door or other Barcelona destination. We hope that's helped you plan your journey and wish you happy travels. Remember if you’re looking to sightsee and save then <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us">Go City</a> is always the right way to go!

Best way to get to Barcelona from the airport? Your guide to the easiest, cheapest options from BCN (El Prat) to Barcelona city centre

Barcelona Airport to City Travel Options | Go City®

Celebrate with Catalan food, Gaudi buildings and fun group activities - our guide to having a brilliant birthday in Barcelona.

Not sure how to spend your birthday in Barcelona? Check out our suggestions.

Things to do in Barcelona for a Birthday

In Spain it&rsquo;s traditional to pull on the ears of someone on their birthday! One tug of the ear for every year of age, plus an extra one for luck! If you&rsquo;re all ears for what to do In Barcelona on your birthday then you&rsquo;re in the right place. The Catalan capital combines culture, cool and big city vibes, all bathed in Mediterranean sunshine. So Feliz Cumplea&ntilde;os! (that&rsquo;s Happy Birthday in Spanish!) and here&rsquo;s our gift to you - a parcel of ideas for a fabulous birthday in Barcelona.

For traditional Catalan food and possibly the best breakfast in Barcelona, stay authentic, get up early and perch on a bar stool at <a href="http://pinotxobar.com/" style="text-decoration:none">Pinotxo</a>, in the heart of the bustling Boqueria (food market). Ordering a &lsquo;cafe amb llet&rsquo; (coffee with milk) will make you feel like a local; Catalans accompany theirs with a croissant, doughnut or bocadillo (sandwich). You can&rsquo;t go wrong with a delicious Spanish omelette (tortilla de patata) or, if you&rsquo;re feeling adventurous, try their famous dish of chickpeas and blood sausage.

If you&rsquo;d rather sleep late on your birthday perhaps you&rsquo;ll prefer to head to Milk, a bar and bistro that serves a famous Recovery Brunch from 9am til 4.30 pm. You can also choose from an English fried breakfast, A US-style pancake stack or even Mexican chilaquiles.

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Breakfast in Barcelona

Who doesn&rsquo;t love a treat on their birthday? And there&rsquo;s no doubt that the biggest treat of all in Barcelona is Gaudi&rsquo;s breathtaking unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. Don&rsquo;t just stand outside admiring the amazing facades and soaring spires - steal a march on the crowds and book early to take a <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/sagrada-familia-guided-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Sagrada Familia guided tour</a>. You can&rsquo;t fail to be open-mouthed as you marvel at the amazing natural forms of its vaulted ceiling, watch the light dance in the huge stained-glass windows and hear about its history. Construction began in 1882, was taken over by Gaudi in 1923, it became a UNESCO world heritage site in 1984 and work is forecast to be complete by 2026!

 
Since it&rsquo;s a special day and you want to do it right, add the ticket that allows you to climb to the very top. See the very best view of Barcelona and get up close to the intricate imagined details of those famous cathedral towers.

Climb the towers of the Sagrada Familia

If that&rsquo;s fired your imagination and architecture is where you&rsquo;re at, you may want to embark on a <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/modernism-and-gaudi-walking-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Gaudi tour</a> and go in search of more of his modernist legacy? Of Barcelona&rsquo;s nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, seven of them were designed by Antoni Gaudi! Hit the streets, or <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/bus-turistic" style="text-decoration:none">hop on (and hop off)</a> a bus, to check out the brightly coloured tiled exterior of <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/casa-vicens" style="text-decoration:none">Casa Vicens</a> and the undulating facade and twisted chimneys of <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/la-pedrera" style="text-decoration:none">La Pedrera</a> (sometimes known as Casa Mil&aacute;). Perhaps most famous is <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/casa-batllo" style="text-decoration:none">Casa Battl&oacute;</a> where the exterior appears to be made of bones and the unconventional interior is inspired by marine landscapes and natural forms. Finish off your Art Nouveau birthday tour at <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/park-guell-guided-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Parc Guell</a> for picturesque views of the city and photo opps with Gaudi&rsquo;s mosaic dragon, &lsquo;El Drac&rsquo;, one of the most photographed sights in Barcelona.

Get your Gaudi fix

When it&rsquo;s time for your birthday lunch, perhaps drop into La Boqueria or another of <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/barcelona-ancient-markets-walking-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Barcelona&rsquo;s famous markets</a> to pick up the ingredients for a picnic? It&rsquo;s no wonder it&rsquo;s known as one of the best food markets in Europe, thronged with tourists and locals alike. Choose from brightly coloured fruit and veg, delicious smoothies, chocolate dipped strawberries and churros, olives, cheese or paper cones full of Iberico ham... then find somewhere to relax and enjoy it all, perhaps on Barceloneta beach or in Ciutadella Park? 
If you&rsquo;d prefer to sit tight rather than takeaway, there&rsquo;s no shortage of restaurants within the market area in which to enjoy an authentic lunch. Typical food in Barcelona includes patatas bravas, traditional Catalan croquettes and steaming pans of saffron-scented paella. Char-grilled octopus and salt cod are other local favorites.

Try some Catalan cuisine

The beauty of a big city is that there&rsquo;s something for everyone, even a large group of birthday buddies. When you&rsquo;re all cultured-out, one original spot for a fun group activity in Barcelona is <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/attractions/escape-hunt-barcelona" style="text-decoration:none">Escape Hunt Barcelona</a>. Choose from three stories, all available in Spanish, Catalan, English or French - The Mystery of Gaudi, the Vampiress of Barcelona or the School of Thieves - then solve the clues to escape before the clock ticks down.

Meanwhile, the Big Fun Museum even has fun in the title and happily it&rsquo;s suitable for big kids as well as little kids! A giant ball-pit is surely irresistible to all ages so dive right on into the enormous &lsquo;dry pool&rsquo;. Admire portraits formed from fruit and veg, meet talking flowers in &lsquo;Wonderland&rsquo; and grab some quirky pics of you and your friends relaxing in the sink or perched on a spoon in the quirky &lsquo;Giant&rsquo;s House&rsquo;. Fun, fun and more birthday fun!

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Fun things to do in Barcelona

<h3>Get wet and wild at Illa Fantasia Waterpark</h3>

There are more good times to be had, whatever your age, at Illa Fantasia waterpark, just a short train ride from the city. Soak up the sunshine in and around three giant pools or bob around the lazy river. Twirl down the 10m high &lsquo;Spiral&rsquo;, slide above the park&rsquo;s restaurants in Bitour or race your family and friends down Aquamania&rsquo;s three tubes. With more than 22 water attractions to choose from, you&rsquo;re guaranteed a splashing time!

&nbsp;

For a more chilled day to the south of the city centre, why not visit the majestic hill of Montju&iuml;c where there&rsquo;s loads to see and do? From Parallel Metro station take the Funicular de Montju&iuml;c halfway up the hill to the base station for the <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/barcelona-cable-car" style="text-decoration:none">Montju&iuml;c cable car</a> (Telef&egrave;ric de Montjuic). From the base station at Parc de Montju&iuml;c it&rsquo;s an easy walk to the Olympic stadium, which hosted the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and museums including the Joan Mir&oacute; Foundation, showcasing the works of the famous Catalan artist.

Or maybe you&rsquo;ll stop off at <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/poble-espanyol" style="text-decoration:none">Poble Espanyol</a>, a recreated Spanish village that combines history and culture with workshops, shops and places to eat.

The next cable car stop is at Mirador d&rsquo;Alcalde, a &lsquo;belvedere&rsquo;, or series of terraces, that provide an impressive panoramic view and a chance to explore the beautiful public gardens. Montjuic Castle tops the hill; a former fortress and prison, it is now a Military Museum.

After so many new experiences it&rsquo;s maybe time to raise a birthday toast on the terrace of the Terraz Martinez and enjoy the birds-eye view of the port and the Mediterranean. Their seafood platters and paella are said to be among the best in town.

 
Then soar - or stroll - back down again. Time it right and you can end up back at the bottom of Montju&iuml;c in time for one of Barcelona&rsquo;s most famous attractions, the Magic Fountain show, a popular sound-and-light spectacular that wows audiences every half hour after dark.

Enjoy a day in Montjuïc

As evening falls you&rsquo;ll be spoiled for choice for bars, restaurants and nightlife, whatever your favourite cuisine - or music scene. Or, why not take your celebrations to new heights at one of Barcelona&rsquo;s many rooftop bars?

The stylish Sky Bar at Grand Hotel Central is open to non-residents after 8pm for food and cocktails and boasts an infinity pool that appears to cascade towards a view of the whole city. For a magical 360&deg; panorama, treat yourself to Terrat at the Mandarin Oriental, which serves amazing Peruvian food, or take the lift to the 360&deg; terrace at the Barcelo Raval Hotel for classic cocktails, tapas and live DJs on summer weekends.

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Barcelona’s best rooftop bars

As you make memories and muse over the highlights of your day, raise your glass to the best birthday in Barcelona - and to a whole new year of adventures ahead - with Go City. Grab a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" target="_blank">Barcelona attraction pass</a> and have the best birthday ever! Yay!

How to spend your birthday in Barcelona? Celebrate with Catalan food, Gaudi buildings and fun group activities.

Things to do in Barcelona for a Birthday | Go City®

Looking for the best markets in Barcelona? Read all about our top picks so you don't miss a thing!

All you need to know about Barcelona's best markets

Best Markets in Barcelona

Travelers! Welcome to Barcelona, the beautiful city that has it all. If you&#39;re looking for a warm, bright city to spend your vacation, you&#39;ve found the perfect place. But if you&#39;re staying in your own accommodation, looking to trim your spending on eating out, or want some authentic souvenirs to bring back home, why not try Barcelona&#39;s bustling market scene? But which are the best markets? Well, these are. These one&#39;s right down below. Check out our picks for the best markets in Barcelona!

Including:

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Mercat de la Boquer&iacute;a</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Mercat de Sant Antoni</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Mercat de la Concepcio</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Mercadillo de la Pla&ccedil;a de Sant Josep</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Fira de Santa Llucia</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">and more!</li>
</ul>

Mercat de la Boquer&iacute;a, known locally as <a href="http://www.boqueria.info/index.php" style="text-decoration:none">La Boquer&iacute;a</a>, is arguably the biggest and best market in Barcelona. At least 800 years old at this point, it&#39;s been a bustling market ever since. So much so that it&#39;s become one of the de facto tourist spots for people visiting the city on vacation.

This metropolis of a market has pretty much every food imaginable on offer, with rows of fruit and veg stalls, as well as areas dedicated to fish, meat, and everything else in between. It&#39;s got everything you&#39;ll need to cook up a mean dish back at your Airbnb.

But wait, there&#39;s more! Not only does it offer fresh food to buy, but you can also sit down to eat at one of the market&#39;s many makeshift restaurants and food trucks. So even if you&#39;re not looking for groceries, it&#39;s a worthwhile visit to try many of the country&#39;s tasty delicacies!

&nbsp;

Mercat de la Boquería

A younger and more low-key version of La Boquer&iacute;a, <a href="http://www.mercatdesantantoni.com/index.php" style="text-decoration:none">Mercat de Sant Antoni</a> caters to a wider variety of shoppers too. While you&#39;ll find plenty of fresh groceries to purchase, there&#39;s also a book market on Sundays, as well as second-hand clothing, hand-crafted jewelry, and home ornaments that would make the perfect gift for a loved one back home.

Or, if you need a little Catalan style in your house, forget them and keep it all to yourself!

&nbsp;

Mercat de Sant Antoni

A stone&#39;s throw from the legendary <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/sagrada-familia-guided-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Sagrada Familia</a>, <a href="http://www.laconcepcio.cat/" style="text-decoration:none">Mercat de la Concepcio</a> sits in one of the city&#39;s oldest districts. You can pick up fresh fruit and vegetables here, but the market&#39;s real selling point is its abundance of flowers, plants, and other flora that welcome visitors like a veritable rainbow!

Because of this, many locals flock to the market to pick up seeds, garden utensils, or a bouquet or two to dazzle their loved ones. And, while you may want to hold off transporting a bouquet across the Atlantic, why not pick up some seeds and offer them as a tribute to the ones you left behind? Maybe they&#39;ll forgive the lack of invite.

&nbsp;

Mercat de la Concepcio

If you&#39;re in the...market...for some art to take back home with you, then <a href="http://www.apartime.com/barcelona-guide/shops-&amp;-markets/mercadillo-de-la-placa-de-sant-josep" style="text-decoration:none">Mercadillo de la Pla&ccedil;a de Sant Josep</a> is your go-to marketplace. Over the weekend, local artists set up shop and offer their works to potential customers.

You&#39;ll find all types of art styles and techniques here, from classic watercolor paintings to sculptures and everything in between. So, no matter your preference, you&#39;re bound to find something that&#39;ll brighten up that mantlepiece.

&nbsp;

Mercadillo De La Plaça De Sant Josep

<a href="http://en.firadesantallucia.cat/" style="text-decoration:none">Fira de Santa Llucia</a> is Barcelona&#39;s answer to the classic Christmas market. Only open over the season, it&#39;s a feast of red, white, and everything else Christmas. But unlike your typical Christmas market, you won&#39;t find any mulled wine here. Instead, expect a more Catholic-style affair, with hand-crafted nativity pieces, wreaths, and other miscellaneous items that lean on the Christian side of the holidays.

Fira De Santa Llucia

Do you like your markets sprinkled with a touch of chaos? Are you in the market for weird and wonderful oddities you never knew you needed? Then <a href="http://www.encantsbcn.com/es" style="text-decoration:none">Mercat Del Encants</a> will be one of the best markets in Barcelona for you!

Step into this ramshackle collection of residential peddlers, and you&#39;ll find Barcelona&#39;s biggest flea market. Old books, vintage clothing, decades-old toys, and plenty of other curiosities are on display every day. Like La Boquer&iacute;a, this is one of the city&#39;s most popular markets, so we recommend you head there early to make sure you don&#39;t miss out on any of the weird and wonderful things! The early bird catches the rare 1997 Furby, or something.

&nbsp;

Mercat Del Encants

Another less hectic version of La Boquer&iacute;a, <a href="https://www.mercatdesantacaterina.com/en/" style="text-decoration:none">Mercat de Santa Caterina</a> is a delightful food market that&#39;s visited by many locals and tourists who are picking up their daily essentials.

The colorful rooftop, designed by architect Enric Miralles as part of a 2005 renovation, is a reflection of the colorful fruit, veg, and other foods available beneath. Delightful.

&nbsp;

Mercat de Santa Caterina

Located in the charming district of Sant Andreu, <a href="https://www.catalunya.com/mercat-de-sant-andreu-17-21001-10762?language=en" style="text-decoration:none">Mercat de Sant Andreu</a> offers plenty of fresh produce, meat, and fish to locals and visitors alike.

On top of the usual market affair, the snug market also has florists, bakers, and chocolate makers that&#39;ll satisfy that sweet tooth. On a particularly warm summer&#39;s day, why not grab yourself an ice cream to cool off as you browse the market&#39;s offerings?

&nbsp;

Mercat de Sant Andreu

Recently revamped, Mercat del Ninot is one of the city&#39;s most modern markets. Sheltered by a steel and glass roof, it can be a bit of a respite from the older, more open, and less protected markets that dot the city.

Inside, you&#39;ll find a more modernized, organized setup too, with plenty of space between food stalls for wannabe shoppers to peruse the market&#39;s delicious wares. There are also makeshift cafes and restaurants, where you can tuck into some tasty tapas too!

&nbsp;

Mercat del Ninot

And those are our picks for the best markets in Barcelona! Looking for other tips for your vacation? Check out <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/blog/best-beaches-barcelona" style="text-decoration:none">our guides to the city&#39;s best beaches</a>. Hoping to explore outside the city? We&#39;ve collected <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/blog/day-trips-barcelona" style="text-decoration:none">the best day trips from Barcelona</a> just for you. Want to see and learn more about the city? <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/blog/walking-tours-barcelona" style="text-decoration:none">Try a walking tour</a>. Until next time! And while you&#39;re at it, grab a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" target="_blank">Barcelona attraction pass</a> and make the most of your time!

Looking for the best markets in Barcelona? These are our picks!

Best Markets in Barcelona | Go City®

Find out how safe the city is for tourists and check out our tips to make your trip extra safe.

Stay safe in the city with our Barcelona safety guide.

Is Barcelona safe?

When planning a trip, it&rsquo;s sensible to figure out ways of making your visit as safe as possible for yourself. Wherever you go, there are always going to be risks, and it&rsquo;s always advisable to keep yourself in the know.

While reading up on Barcelona, you may find yourself presented with many conflicting opinions on the overall safety of visiting the Catalan capital. We&rsquo;re going to explore the factors that go into the general safety rating of a destination, and help you ultimately answer the question of whether Barcelona is safe for tourists.

&nbsp;

First and foremost, the single most prudent thing provisional visitors to Barcelona will want to know is the overall presence of crime throughout the city. You can naturally expect a <a href="https://www.numbeo.com/crime/in/Barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">moderate level of crime</a> in any city of this size and prominence. It should be noted, however, that any malicious action against tourists is exceedingly rare in Barcelona.

That being said, something to be very much aware of is petty crime. Barcelona has been dubbed time and again the pickpocket capital of Europe, often sharing its title with the likes of Rome and Prague. And while on the whole tourists should be very safe here, petty criminals are most likely to target unsuspecting visitors.

Any areas that tend to be packed with tourists, such as around the <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/sagrada-familia-guided-tour" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Sagrada Familia</a>, metro stations and crowds around street performers, are perfect hunting grounds for pickpockets. <a href="https://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/ramblas/barcelona-las-ramblas.html" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">La Rambla</a> is particularly notorious for both pickpockets and scammers, as perhaps the most popular street in the city.

Pickpockets are innovative and opportunistic. Some may simply attempt to discreetly remove your possessions from your person, while others may bump into you or ask for directions to distract you while an accomplice takes this opportunity to scout out your valuables.

As such, you should be sure to keep all of your valuables in a place where they can&rsquo;t easily be grabbed. Back pockets are an absolute no-no, as are the outer pockets on any bags you may be carrying. Better yet, try to avoid carrying any valuables that aren&rsquo;t entirely necessary, and try not to engage with suspicious individuals.

&nbsp;

Crime

It&rsquo;s an unfortunate truth when it comes to travel that wherever there are tourists, there will also be scammers looking to take advantage. Scammers know that visitors aren&rsquo;t going to be as savvy and in-the-know as locals to the area, making them a prime target.

Scam artists are constantly reinventing their game to try to catch people out, and it&rsquo;s therefore impossible to create an exhaustive list of all of the scams to watch out for. However, there are a number of tricks that are known to have been prevalent in Barcelona for some time. Among the most common are:

Impostor Tourists &ndash; Thieves dressed as tourists (think strikingly out-of-place clothing, perhaps a map or camera in hand) may approach asking for directions or money. Roles may be reversed, with the scammers acting as friendly locals looking to give directions. This is often a ruse to distract you while an accomplice discretely picks your pockets.

Floral Fraud &ndash; Individuals may &lsquo;gift&rsquo; you an individual flower (or other such object) before demanding payment, only to attempt to take your money once your wallet is exposed or pressure you to pay an outrageous price.

Street Performers/Artists &ndash; Much like the case above, busy tourist areas are full of supposed &lsquo;performers&rsquo; who will pressure you for money after jumping in your photos or handing you a bracelet or some other such trinket.

Street Vendors &ndash; Found in just about any tourist hotspot in Barcelona, these street merchants sell everything from bootleg designer products to tacky souvenirs. Most of these are not licensed vendors and none of their products are high-quality.

Their goods will often be displayed on a large piece of cloth which allows them to easily pack them away and make a break for it if the authorities come to pay a visit.

&nbsp;

Scams

The above information is intended simply as caution of the small few risks you may face on a trip to Barcelona. On the whole, Barcelona is very safe for tourists, but you should still take precautions to ensure your utmost safety.

In general, it&rsquo;s always smart to have your wits about you whenever you&rsquo;re out in public. Listed below are some tips to help you keep both yourself and your possessions safe wherever you go.

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Never carry your phone, wallet or other valuables in your back pockets</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Never leave your possessions unattended</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Avoid carrying all of your cash and cards in one place</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Try to carry as few valuables as possible at any given time</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Always be skeptical of strangers approaching you in public</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Avoid allowing any stranger to come close enough to touch you</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Report any instance of theft to your nearest police officer</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Call 112 if you are in need of any police assistance or emergency services</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Above all else, trust your intuition</li>
</ul>

Safety Tips

<h3>Is Barcelona Safe?</h3>

Overall, Barcelona is an incredibly safe destination for tourists. The city sees huge waves of visitors <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/blog" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">year-round</a>, and the majority never report having had any trouble. While pickpocketing, scams and petty theft are rife, they should be avoidable as long as you know what to watch out for.

As with anything, you should take all external opinions on the city with a pinch of salt. While a number of sources may claim that Barcelona is unsafe for tourists, these are likely people who were unfortunate enough to be caught out by some of the city&rsquo;s many scams and tourist traps.

If you can look past its shortcomings, you&rsquo;re likely to find Barcelona a wonderful place to visit. Rich with culture, cuisine and outstanding architecture, this is not a city to be missed simply for the sake of a few bad eggs. Be sure to do everything you can to keep yourself safe, but try not to allow these risks to sour your view of this vibrant metropolis.

Grab a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" target="_blank">Barcelona pass</a> and save while you see the city&#39;s sights!

Looking to visit Barcelona? We discuss how safe the city is for tourists and offer some tips to make your trip extra safe. Read more on the Go City® blog.

Is Barcelona Safe? | Go City®

Get giddy at Gaudí masterpieces, enjoy the views from Placa de la Sagrada Família, take a stroll to the Hospital de Sant Pau, and more!

It’s all about the architecture in and around Barcelona’s Eixample district, where after ogling the show-stopping Sagrada Família, you can check out more (much more) Gaudí eye candy, plus several more architectural marvels including the Hospital de Sant Pau and Arc de Triomf. Join us on our whistle-stop tour of all the best things to do near the Sagrada Família in Barcelona…

Things to do near the Sagrada Familia

Can you even say you&rsquo;ve been to Barcelona if you haven&rsquo;t visited the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia? No, dear, reader, you cannot. This otherworldly spacecraft-looking confection by visionary architect Antoni Gaud&iacute; is Barcelona&rsquo;s greatest icon. It&rsquo;s its crowning glory; its big kahuna; its sky-piercing sightseeing shangri-la. But enough with the superlatives.

Nearby Placa de la Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia, a cute little park opposite the basilica&rsquo;s eye-popping Nativity Facade, offers a different perspective on the Barcelona behemoth, and a fine opportunity to snap all those Sagrada selfies you&rsquo;ve been dreaming of. That&rsquo;s particularly true in spring, when blooms and a bright blue sky add pops of color to your shots, and budding photographers vie for the most Insta-worthy shots of the cathedral reflecting in the park&rsquo;s mirror-like pond.

Placa de la Sagrada Família

Take a stroll along the broad (and largely pedestrianized) Avinguda de Gaud&iacute;, which runs all the way from the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia to the remarkable Hospital de Sant Pau at its northern end. At around a kilometer end-to-end it&rsquo;s a relatively short meander, but you can be forgiven for pausing at least once along the way at one of the dozens of convivial outdoor caf&eacute;s and cozy tapas bars that line the street. After all, nothing nourishes the soul quite like calamari, garlic shrimp, patatas bravas and a reviving glass of cava. You&rsquo;re on vacation after all.

Suitably fortified, continue to the Hospital de Sant Pau which, much like the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia, is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a spectacular example of Catalan Modernism, designed in this case by Gaud&iacute; contemporary Llu&iacute;s Dom&egrave;nech i Montaner. All Art Nouveau flourishes, kaleidoscopic mosaics and serene courtyards and gardens, it&#39;s more like an art museum than a former medical facility, and all the better for it.

Hospital de Sant Pau

There are several more celebrated Gaud&iacute; designs within a short walk (or even shorter metro ride) of the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia. Whimsical, controversial and hallucinatory in equal measure, Casa Batll&oacute; (aka the House of Bones, pictured above) and Casa Mil&aacute; (aka La Pedrera, pictured below) are among the best examples of Catalan Modernism anywhere in Barcelona. Check out Batll&oacute;&rsquo;s dragon-crest roof, shark-skull balconies and spine-like staircase and ogle La Pedrera&rsquo;s fairytale mosaic-clad chimneys and trippy courtyards to find out why.

<a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/things-to-do/casa-batllo-vs-casa-mila-comparison-gaudi-houses-compared" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Read our guide to Casa Batll&oacute; and La Pedrera here.</a>

Yet More Gaudí Masterpieces

It&rsquo;s also worth making the two-kilometer pilgrimage from Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia to the famous Parc G&uuml;ell, although this vibrant Gaud&iacute; fantasyland is best visited early, before the selfie-stick-toting crowds descend.

Top tip: admission to many of the city&rsquo;s top Gaud&iacute; confections, plus dozens more <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/attractions" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Barcelona attractions</a>, tours and activities, is included with a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Barcelona pass</a> from Go City, which could save you more than 50% on your Barcelona sightseeing. Hit the buttons below to find out more and get your pass.

Pause just north of the fantastic Parc de la Ciutadella to admire the Arc de Triomf, yet another (ahem) triomf of Catalan Modernism, built for the Barcelona World Fair in 1888. Onward into the park proper, around two kilometers from Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia, where a lush urban sanctuary of some 70 acres awaits.

There&rsquo;s stacks to see and do here: glide across the lake in a rowboat, pausing to take in the views and say hola to the occasional passing duck; check out the (much larger) selection of critters at Barcelona Zoo; enjoy a spring picnic surrounded by color-bursts of fragrant blooms.

Parc de la Ciutadella

And, at the risk of sounding like a stuck record, there are also several impressive architectural marvels to ogle. Hit up the Castell dels Tres Dragons for your Insta fix, and strike a pose by the Cascada Monumental, an epic 19th-century fountain complete with mythological creatures and charioteer, designed by Josep Fontser&egrave; and (yes, it&rsquo;s him again) Antoni Gaud&iacute;.

The Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia isn&rsquo;t exactly a million miles from that other big Barca attraction &ndash; the bustling La Rambla thoroughfare &ndash;&nbsp;but if you&rsquo;re doing a lot of sightseeing you might want to consider hopping on the metro at Monumental for the short journey there. Sure, it&rsquo;s a tourist trap, but what bucket-list Barcelona attraction isn&rsquo;t? Lean into the madness a little and you&rsquo;ll discover that &ndash;&nbsp;between the tacky souvenir stalls and pushy paella joints &ndash; La Rambla has bags of charm.

You&rsquo;ll find it in the veritable foodie paradise that is La Boqueria market, where one bite of the freshly-fried calamari could prove life-changing. It&rsquo;s there at the show-stopping Gran Teatre del Liceu opera house, and in the Gaud&iacute;-esque facade of the Antigua Casa Figueras cake shop, which looks every bit as edible as its contents. And, who knows, you might even find it in an overpriced-yet-adorable &lsquo;I &hearts;️ BCN&rsquo; fridge magnet, yours to treasure forevermore.

La Rambla

Just east of La Rambla, Barcelona&rsquo;s medieval Gothic Quarter is home to the city&rsquo;s *other* basilica. The Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia gets most of the attention, and perhaps rightly so. But does it have its own gaggle of resident geese? No, it does not. Barcelona Cathedral is a melodramatic gothic masterpiece in its own right and is well worth a visit for its fabulous gargoyles and secluded cloisters, as well as the aforementioned feathered honkers.

Elsewhere in this atmospheric district, spend time getting lost along narrow cobbled lanes and sipping caf&eacute; con leche on tiny tree-lined plazas before making a beeline for the Picasso Museum, an awesome collection of some 4,000 pieces by the maestro, including a treasure trove of early sketches from his formative years on the nearby Carrer d&#39;Aviny&oacute;.

Looking for cool things to do near the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia and elsewhere in Barcelona? The Barcelona pass from Go City is your friend. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Click here to find out how you could save up to 50% on your Barcelona sightseeing.</a>

The Gothic Quarter

A stop at the Sagrada Família leaves you well-placed for other major Barcelona attractions including Parc Güell, the Hospital de Sant Pau, and La Rambla.

Things to do near the Sagrada Familia | Go City®

Including breakfast Catalan-style, sunrise on Montjuïc Hill, and more Gaudí masterpieces than you can shake a very large stick at.

Barcelona’s otherworldly architecture and bustling markets are best experienced in the morning, when the streets are a little quieter and the light for those essential Sagrada Familia selfies is just so. Our guide to the best things to do in Barcelona in the morning also includes Barceloneta Beach, the medieval Gothic Quarter and more. Read on for the lowdown…

Things to do in Barcelona in the Morning

If you&rsquo;re seeking an elevated position from which to enjoy the Barcelona sunrise, look no further than majestic Montju&iuml;c Hill. Head up there early, where your only company will be dog walkers, morning joggers and perhaps the occasional solitary gray heron. The viewpoint round the back of formidable Montju&iuml;c Castle is one of the best in the city, with trails that weave their way through peaceful woodland, affording panoramas of the port and beyond. Afterwards, take time to explore the castle and roam the park&rsquo;s lush gardens, then ogle masterpieces of modern art by one of Barcelona&rsquo;s most celebrated artists at the Joan Mir&oacute; Foundation.

Sunrise on Montjuïc Hill

When in Catalonia do as the Catalans do. That means breakfasting on local staples like pa amb tom&agrave;quet &ndash;&nbsp;bread rubbed with salt, olive oil and tomato. So versatile is this simple Mediterranean snack that you can pretty much pair it with anything: anchovies, Spanish omelet, or cured ham for the win. You can find this pretty much anywhere in Barcelona, but the tiny tapas bars in La Boqueria market are among the best in town. And, should you be feeling especially decadent, you could always try that other Catalan classic, because nothing kickstarts a day of Barcelona sightseeing quite like the sweet sugary hit of churros with chocolate. Have yours with a cortado at old-school stalwarts like Granja Dulcinea (once a favorite haunt of Salvador Dal&iacute;, fact fans) and Granja M. Viador, both located just off La Rambla.

Breakfast like a Local

Eixample is where it&rsquo;s at for some of the finest (and most eye-popping works) of maestro Antoni Gaud&iacute;, all of which are best experienced in the morning light, and well before the crowds start arriving by the (literal) coachload. Start with the iconic Sagrada Familia, the Gothic and Art Nouveau cathedral that is Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s crowning glory. Morning tours are available with the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Barcelona pass</a> from Go City, which also includes admission to other essential Gaud&iacute; attractions including the hallucinatory flight of fancy that is Casa Batll&oacute; (aka the House of Bones), and quirky Casa Mil&agrave; (aka La Pedrera). Like all of Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s eye-popping confections, nearby Park G&uuml;ell is absolute manna from heaven for Insta addicts, but you&rsquo;ll need to get there early in the day if you want to bag those perfect snaps of its sculptures and multi-colored mosaics, unhindered by selfie-stick-toting tourists. The Barcelona pass also includes a guided tour of Park G&uuml;ell and could save you up to 50% on admission to dozens more <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/attractions" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Barcelona attractions</a>, including Poble Espanyol, the Barcelona cable car, the Picasso Museum and more. Hit the buttons below for more info and to bag your pass.

Get your Gaudí on

Tourist trap it may be, but Barcelona&rsquo;s most famous thoroughfare has bags of charm. Dodge the tacky souvenir stalls and the aggressive waiters touting for business, and make a beeline for bustling La Boqueria (pictured), the all-day market that&rsquo;s an absolute mecca for foodies. Grab a still-warm pastry and a coffee and soak up the sights, sounds and scents of this authentic Catalan marketplace, which sings with the sound of traders loudly advertising their wares and the near-irresistible aroma of freshly fried calamari. Spirits high and belly full, step out to admire some of La Rambla&rsquo;s most striking buildings &ndash; the Gran Teatre del Liceu opera house is a showstopper inside and out, and the Gaudi-esque Modernista exterior of the Antigua Casa Figueras cake shop, all stained glass, ornate ironwork and intricate mosaics, looks almost good enough to eat.&nbsp;

Pro-tip: keep your eyes peeled for an oft-overlooked street mosaic by some guy called Joan Mir&oacute;. You&rsquo;ll find it on the sidewalk between the Liceu and La Boqueria metro stations.

Go for a Ramble on La Rambla

The labyrinthine lanes of Barcelona&rsquo;s medieval Barri G&ograve;tic are tailor-made for getting lost in. Spend a morning exploring secret courtyards sequestered along meandering cobbled lanes, and make time to be mesmerized by the city&rsquo;s *other* basilica. Get to Barcelona Cathedral before the mid-morning rush, to admire its quite fabulous gargoyles, elaborate central spire and resident geese in relative peace and quiet.

Follow in the footsteps of Pablo Picasso along Carrer d&#39;Aviny&oacute;, where the adolescent artist cut his teeth, before visiting one of the planet&rsquo;s largest collections of his work (including many early pieces) at the Picasso Museum, set in a suitably awe-inspiring series of five medieval palaces.&nbsp;

Elegant Pla&ccedil;a Reial is never really not busy, but it&rsquo;s least crowded in the morning, meaning you&rsquo;ll have more space to capture those Insta-perfect moments by the ornate central fountain, beneath neoclassical arcades and in front of the candelabra streetlamps, early designs by (who else?) Gaud&iacute;.

Explore the Gothic Quarter 

One of the best things about coastal cities is that you get all that great art, architecture and food *and* you can take a stroll along the beach whenever the mood takes you. In our humble opinion, the best time to do so in Barcelona is early in the day when the light is soft and a ghostly mist hangs in the cool morning air. Hit up popular Barceloneta Beach before the sunseekers start arriving mid-morning, or take a dawn wander around historic Port Vell. where you can watch the boats bob in the marina as gulls soar over the harbor.

Find more fun things to do in Barcelona in the morning and save up to 50% with a Barcelona pass from Go City. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Click here to find out more about the different pass types and to bag yours!</a>

Hit the Beach

Our guide includes a gander at several Gaudí masterpieces, a peek at the Picasso Museum, and a ramble along La Rambla.

Things to do in Barcelona in the Morning | Go City®

2 Days in Barcelona

While exploring a city as large and culturally rich as Barcelona in a short span of time may seem an intimidating task, it’s actually perfectly doable once you put together a solid plan of everything you’re genuinely interested in seeing. Whether you’re passing through for a couple days or looking to take a weekend city break, two days in Barcelona should be plenty of time to see a good portion of what the city has to offer. Covering everything from the city’s stunning architecture to its complex history, we’ve put together our own suggested itinerary to take you on a whirlwind tour of the beloved Catalan capital. The itinerary below includes a mix of sightseeing, museums and shopping destinations. Feel free to take suggestions as inspiration and mix-and-match them with the attractions and activities that most interest you. Use the suggested visit timings to help decide how best to lay out your trip. <h3>Day 1 - Sightseeing</h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/Temp-720x405-min_8.jpg" alt="Image of " loading="lazy">What better way to acquaint yourself with Barcelona than by packing your first day full of the city’s best sights? As a city famous for its mix of gothic and modernist architecture along with the unique labyrinthine design of its streets, it’s only fitting that you get a taste of these right away. Park Güell – One of renowned modernist architect Antoni Gaudí’s most famous works, this park is most well-known for its central Monumental Zone. From the mosaic salamander at its entrance to the sea serpent bench encircling the main terrace, <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/park-guell-guided-tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">this eccentric space</a> is a perfect place to start your day. Recommended visit: 1h – 2h Sagrada Familia – The Belle of Barcelona’s ball, this yet unfinished basilica is truly a sight to behold. Take some time to explore the rich architectural mastery of this UNESCO World Heritage Site on your own, or <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/sagrada-familia-guided-tour">book onto a guided tour</a> for a full insight into the site’s artistic, cultural and historic significance. Recommended visit: 1h – 1h30 Avinguda Diagonal – One of Barcelona’s most popular and important streets, Avinguda Diagonal runs diagonally through the city, cutting it in two. A vast array of stores and restaurants are dotted throughout the length of the avenue. Recommended visit: 45m Casa Milà – Also known as <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/la-pedrera" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Pedrera</a> (‘the stone quarry’), this modernist building was the final residence designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. As per its nickname, it’s most famous for its rough-hewn exterior façade, somewhat resembling an open stone quarry. Recommended visit: 15m – 1h30 Casa Batlló,<a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/museu-amatller"> Casa Amatller</a> and Casa Lleó i Morera – This trio of modernist buildings are widely considered the most important on Barcelona’s famous Illa de la Discòrdia, or ‘Block of Discord’. Showcasing the masterpieces of Barcelona’s prominent modernist architects Antoni Gaudi, Josep Puig i Cadafalch and Lluís Domènech i Montaner, these buildings are eccentric in design both inside and out. Recommended visit: 15m – 2h Plaça de Catalunya – Considered to be Barcelona’s city centre and the meeting point of both the old and modern city, this square is a favorite for social gatherings thanks to its wealth of shopping outlets and restaurants. Recommended visit: 15m – 2h La Rambla – Perhaps the city’s most famous street, La Rambla spans from Plaça de Catalunya all the way to the Columbus Monument on the seafront. You’ll find a vast array of streetside cafés and souvenir stands across the length of the street. Recommended visit: 30m – 2h Mercat de la Boqueria – Often considered one of the best markets in the world, this <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/barcelona-ancient-markets-walking-tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">historical market</a> houses all sorts of fresh, local produce along with stands to get yourself a hearty lunch while on the go. Recommended visit: 45m Plaça Reial – Particularly popular in the evening, this square is home to a whole host of bars, restaurants and some of Barcelona’s most famous nightclubs. Why not finish your day here with a fresh dish of Catalan cuisine and a glass or two of the local region’s renowned wines? Recommended visit: As long as you want <h3>Day 2 – Culture</h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/barcelona/Temp-720x405%20(1)-min_8.jpg" alt="Image of City, Road, Street, Urban, Alley, Path, Person, Bicycle, Vehicle, " loading="lazy">Your second day in Barcelona – should you choose to follow our itinerary – will take you on a cultural tour of the city and the local region. If art, music and history are up your alley, then the following are sure to give you a real kick. Palau de la Musica Catalana – A true marvel of modernist architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been host to a magnificent array of musical performances since 1908. Bask in its colorful exterior from outside, book onto a guided tour of the venue, or even attend one of its legendary musical performances for yourself. Recommended visit: 1h – 3h Gothic Quarter – Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter sits immediately north of La Rambla and houses some of the city’s best sights. It’s worth spending a decent period of time here to explore everything the historic streets have to offer. Recommended visit: 2h Barcelona Cathedral – Known officially as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, this immense structure is a case study in Gothic Revival architecture. It’s expertly-crafted neo-Gothic façade makes way to a somewhat more unassuming yet nevertheless still imposing interior common to traditional Catalan churches. Recommended visit: 30m – 1h30 Museu d'Història de Barcelona – If you’re a history buff visiting Barcelona, this should be your trip’s Mecca. As the name might suggest, the MUHBA will take you on a tour of key points throughout the city’s history, from as recent as the Spanish Civil War to as far back as prehistory. Recommended visit: 3h – 5h Museu Picasso – Housing over 4,000 of Pablo Picasso’s works, this museum possesses one of the world’s most complete collections of the famous Spanish artist’s paintings. Recommended visit: 2h Carrer de Salomó ben Adret – At the heart of the Gothic quarter, this street is replete with charming bars, restaurants and cafés. A perfect rest stop to draw a close to your whirlwind trip. Recommended visit: As long as you want <h3>Getting Around</h3> Our recommended attractions are listed in such an order to allow you to easily walk from one to the other, though most are also within short walking distance of transport hubs should you prefer to take public transport. Alternatively, a <a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/attractions/bus-turistic" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bus Turístic</a> will also allow you to hop on and off along a similar route while offering an audio commentary of the sights along the way.

Looking to take a short trip to Barcelona? Take a look at our suggestions for a jam-packed 2-day itinerary. Read more on the Go City® blog.

2 Days (48 Hours) in Barcelona | Go City®

Things to do in Barcelona for Pride Day

Barcelona has always been a bit of a trailblazer. No surprise then that the Catalan capital was the first Spanish city to host a Pride march back in 1977, when a few hundred people protested along Las Ramblas in the name of the Gay Liberation Front of Catalonia. Today, the celebration has become one of Spain&rsquo;s largest LGBTQ+ festivals and, for two weeks in July, the streets are transformed into an ocean of vibrant rainbow flags. This mass celebration of love, diversity and inclusion &ndash; variously known as Barcelona Pride, Barcelona Gay Pride, and Pride! BCN &ndash; culminates with a colorful mid-month parade that attracts around a quarter of a million participants and spectators, and a series of concerts and closing parties that all but blow the lid off Barcelona! Read on for our guide to all the best things to do in Barcelona on and around Pride Day&hellip;

<h2>Barcelona Pride Parade</h2>

Barcelona&rsquo;s Pride Parade is the (almost) grand finale to a series of flamboyant events taking place across the city through the first half of July. Bearing in mind that the middle of the day can get pretty hot here in summer, the Barcelona parade kicks off at a relatively balmy 6PM, blazing a colorful trail that starts in the Tres Xemeneies Park &ndash; named for the three industrial chimneys that dominate the skyline here. The parade paints a rainbow the length of Avenida del Parallel before turning towards Avinguda Maria Cristina and Palau Nacional, home of the Pride Village and main stage. Expect flamboyant floats, banging party anthems, outlandish costumes and feather boas galore. Get there in plenty of time to grab a spot by the barriers that line the route then make for the huge free concert and after-party by the Pride stage. This location at the foot of Montju&iuml;c hill is the hub of all things Pride throughout the two-week celebration, with daily performances, workshops, community events and more, plus plenty of food and drink.

<h2>More Barcelona Pride Events</h2>

Entry to all three is included with a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Go Barcelona pass</a>, which also gives you access to several more Barcelona bucket-listers, including&hellip;

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">A guided tour of yet another of Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s masterpieces: the absolutely Insta-tastic Park G&uuml;ell (pictured above).</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">A sightseeing tour aboard the open-top Barcelona bus.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">A lip-smacking tapas-tasting tour.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">A ride on the Barcelona cable car.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Entry to the bonkers worlds of the Museum of Illusions and Big Fun Museum.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Entry to the Picasso Museum and a walking tour of the maestro&rsquo;s old Barcelona haunts.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">A walking tour of Barcelona&rsquo;s best markets.</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">&hellip; and many more!</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Find out more and get your Barcelona attractions pass here.</a>

<h2>More things to do in Barcelona</h2>

<a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/blog/things-to-do-in-barcelona-in-summer" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Top summer activities in Barcelona</a>

<a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/blog/best-parks-barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Barcelona&rsquo;s best parks</a>

<a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/blog/barcelona-neighborhoods-suburbs-to-explore" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Barcelona neighborhoods guide</a>

<a href="https://gocity.com/barcelona/en-us/blog/free-things-to-do-in-barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Free things to do in Barcelona</a>

<a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/blog/tourist-traps-in-barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">The Barcelona tourist traps to avoid</a>

The variety of events leading up to the parade and concert is colorful as it is varied. The program changes from year to year, but there are several festival stalwarts that can be relied upon to return regularly. These include:

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Miss Drag Pride Pageant. The most talented drag kings and queens from across Barcelona and beyond come together to perform in front of a panel of drag experts (in full&nbsp;showstopping drag regalia, natch). The event&nbsp; &ndash; the closest thing you can get to experiencing RuPaul&rsquo;s Drag Race without RuPaul themself &ndash; usually takes place in the Maria Cristina club.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The High Heels Race. This event is precisely what it sounds like: a high-speed, high-octane, high-stakes, high-heeled race to the finish line, with runners temporary setting aside the festival&rsquo;s spirit of love and acceptance in pursuit of a greater goal: cash. Expect trips, stumbles and lots of laughs from this most comical and cut-throat of Pride spectacles.</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The Pride Village. With the beautiful Palau Nacional (pictured) as its backdrop, the Pride Village is your one-stop-shop for all things LGBTQ+ throughout the festival. We&rsquo;re talking exhibitions, information stands, bars, food stalls and even an activity area for kids &ndash; there&rsquo;s a strong focus on family at Barcelona Pride, and many of the events are open to participants of all ages. Yes: even the High Heels Race! This is also where the opening and closing parties take place, with international DJs, live bands, drag performers and dancers among the many entertainers to grace the stage.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Barcelona Pride Nightlife</h2>

Barcelona is a gay-friendly city and the LGBTQ+ nightlife is excellent year-round. There are stacks of bars and clubs to pick from but gay hotel chain Axel&rsquo;s sky bar roof terrace is one of the best. Not only is the company here great; there&rsquo;s also a pool, loungers, long cocktail menu and some splendid views across the rooftops of Eixample, the LGBTQ+ district known fondly as &lsquo;Gayxample&rsquo; by some locals. The legendary Safari Club is also close to Eixample and Pla&ccedil;a Espana (itself a bit of a Pride month hotspot). Regular club nights at Safari include Bananas on Friday nights and YASS! parties on Saturdays, which are of course even busier and wilder during Pride. The monthly Matinee party (sorry ladies, men only) is another of Pride&rsquo;s big events, running from around midnight well into the small hours. Check local listings for details, dates and more info on all of the above, plus many other massive club nights taking place across Barcelona during Pride.

<h2>Best of the Rest: Things to do during Barcelona Pride</h2>

It&rsquo;s summer! It&rsquo;s Pride! It&rsquo;s Barcelona! So what better way to while away the long daylight hours than on one of the city beaches? Closest to the center, you&rsquo;ll recognise Platja de Sant Sebasti&agrave; by the huge, sail-shaped hotel at its southern end. Or head north along the coast to the Poblenou district for clothing-optional Platja de la Mar Bella. Fancy a beachy day trip? Strike out for Platja de la Bassa Rodona, a few miles south of the city in nearby Sitges. All of these beaches are very scenic, sandy and LGBTQ-friendly sunbathing spots.

You&rsquo;ll also want to hang out in gay-friendly Eixample, which gives you as good a reason as any to spend time ogling some of Antoni Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s most eye-popping architectural exercises in Catalan Modernism. We&rsquo;re talking the iconic Sagrada Familia as well as the quite extraordinary confections that are <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/blog/casa-batllo-vs-casa-mila-comparison-gaudi-houses-compared" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Casa Batll&oacute; and Casa Mil&agrave;</a> (aka La Pedrera).&nbsp;

All the best things to do in Barcelona during Pride, including the parade, the parties, and the Gaudí architecture in gay-friendly Eixample.

Things to do in Barcelona for Pride Day Parade Festival | Go City®

Museu Picasso vs Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya - (MNAC) Comparison

Barcelona has quite the pedigree when it comes to art. Not to put too fine a point on it, we&rsquo;re talking about the self-same region that nurtured Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dal&iacute; and Joan Mir&oacute;. Heck, this part of Spain is about as central to the development of European art as just about anywhere else on the continent. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the city&rsquo;s fine art museums, among which the extraordinary Museu Nacional d&#39;Art de Catalunya and epic Museu Picasso are among the very best. We took a closer look at these two titans of the Bar&ccedil;a art scene, including a little bit of history and the treasures you can expect to find within&hellip;

<h2>Museu Picasso: The Lowdown</h2>

Vital Statistics: Opened in 1963, Barcelona&rsquo;s <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/attractions/life-picasso-walking-tour-museum-entry" target="_blank">Museu Picasso</a> was the world&rsquo;s first museum dedicated entirely to the maestro&rsquo;s work, and the only one to open in his lifetime. Even today, the museum&rsquo;s collection of 4,000+ pieces, located in the very neighborhood where Picasso lived and studied as a teenager, makes it one of the three largest Picasso collections on the planet, alongside the Picasso Museum in Paris, and the mighty Prado in Madrid. The museum attracts over a million visitors annually.

Picasso Museum in Brief: Picasso&rsquo;s fledgling art career first took wing in the medieval streets of the medieval Gothic Quarter. Here&rsquo;s where he lived with his family, studied at the School of Fine Arts, and found inspiration for his celebrated &lsquo;Les Demoiselles d&#39;Avignon&rsquo; at a Carrer d&#39;Aviny&oacute; brothel. It&rsquo;s appropriate then that this extensive collection of his work &ndash; and particularly his earlier, pre-Cubist work &ndash; should be exhibited here, close to the very neighborhood Picasso once called home. This is no ordinary museum either. Art of this quality deserves a setting just as impressive, and the series of five adjoining medieval palaces in Le Ribera, in which the collection is housed, more than delivers. The mind-boggling number of exhibits (some 4,251 at last count) is helpfully organized into sections that primarily cover Picasso&rsquo;s early years, training period and celebrated Blue Period, taking in a fairly substantial hoard of sketches and paintings from those eras, as well as a much smaller collection of pieces from his Cubist period and beyond.

<h2>Museu Nacional d&rsquo;Art de Catalunya: The Lowdown</h2>

Vital Statistics: A stalwart of the Barcelona art scene since 1934, MNAC is *the* go-to for anyone with even a passing interest in Catalan art from the last 1,000 years. Set high on Montju&iuml;c hill, this majestic collection is displayed within the historic Palau Nacional, a jaw-dropping confection that marries elements of St Peter&#39;s Basilica, Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, and other major masterpieces of European architecture. Something of a work of art in its own right then, this palatial Italian-style confection also just happens to command some of the best Barcelona panoramas in town. No wonder then that it draws in a similar number of tourists to the Picasso Museum &ndash; around a million &ndash; every year.

MNAC in Brief: Go for the art and stay for the sweeping city views: visitors to the museum enjoy access to the roof terrace for unrivaled panoramas of the skyline, taking in everything from the Montju&iuml;c Magic Fountain below to the familiar lines and angles of the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia, and the Mediterranean beyond. It&rsquo;s worth taking a peek inside too, of course. For here&rsquo;s where you can marvel at Romanesque religious murals par excellence, lovingly transported here from crumbling medieval churches in the Pyrenees, as well as key pieces from the Gothic and Renaissance eras, and some of the modern masterworks that inspired Dal&iacute;, Picasso, Gaud&iacute; and Mir&oacute;. In summary, MNAC boasts what is quite possibly (nay, almost certainly) the finest collection of Catalan art, ancient and modern, on this planet we call Earth.

<h2>Museu Picasso: Highlights &amp; What to Expect</h2>

The Museu Picasso works hard to convey the artist&rsquo;s relationship with Barcelona, from the formative years spent learning his craft in this very district to his continuing connection with the city in death. Guided tours of the local neighborhood flesh this out, revealing Picasso&rsquo;s family homes, teenage hangouts and more. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/attractions/life-picasso-walking-tour-museum-entry" target="_blank">One such tour is included</a> with a Barcelona pass from Go City, which also includes entry to the museum, as well as other Barcelona attractions including Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s Casa Batll&oacute; and the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Find out more about the Barcelona pass and buy yours here.</a>

Cool fact: during renovations in 1960, the Mural paintings of the Conquest of Majorca were discovered concealed beneath plaster in Palau Aguilar, one of the five medieval palaces in which Museu Picasso is housed. Considered a masterpiece of 13th-century Catalan art, these magnificent murals now form the focal point of the Gothic galleries at MNAC.

Back to the present day Museu Picasso now, where highlights include:

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">&lsquo;The First Communion&rsquo; and &lsquo;Science and Charity&rsquo;. Some of his earliest major works, these oil paintings date from 1896-1897, when Picasso was still a teenager.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Must-see Blue Period works at the museum include &lsquo;The Dead Woman&rsquo;, a striking portrait of a recently deceased subject, rendered in the trademark sickly blues and greens Picasso favored between 1901 and 1904.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">In 1957, Picasso set about re-imagining Velazquez&rsquo;s iconic 17th-century royal portrait &lsquo;Las Meninas&rsquo;, bringing his own inimitable style to the project across 58 (count &lsquo;em) separate paintings. The resulting collection, displayed in its entirety here is, quite frankly, unmissable.</li>
</ul>

<h2>MNAC: Highlights &amp; What to Expect&nbsp;</h2>

For an overview of Catalan art across the centuries, the Museu Nacional d&#39;Art de Catalunya is second-to-none, taking in everything from medieval Romanesque and Gothic murals to Renaissance masterpieces and modern art. Highlights of this 300,000-strong collection are many, but here are a few you absolutely must not miss:

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Baroque and Renaissance Spanish art provides some of the museum&rsquo;s undisputed highlights. We&rsquo;re talking masterpieces from the likes of El Greco, Vel&aacute;zquez, Zurbar&aacute;n and more. Don&rsquo;t miss one of the collection&rsquo;s signature pieces: the unsettling &lsquo;Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew&rsquo; by Jos&eacute; de Ribera&rsquo;, in which the titular Bart&rsquo;s desperate, pleading eyes seem to meet the gaze of the unsuspecting viewer (i.e. you).</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Murals including the Master of Taull&rsquo;s majestic &lsquo;Apse of St Taull&rsquo; and the epic Linear Gothic Catalan masterpiece that is the Mural paintings of the Conquest of Majorca, are among some of the finest examples of early medieval Romanesque art anywhere on the planet.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The modern art collection covers around 150 years from the early 19th century onwards, with Romantic, realist and neoclassical pieces that preempt the work of Gaud&iacute;, Mir&oacute;, Picasso et al. Check out sculptures by Campeny and the Vallmitjana brothers, and paintings by Flaugier and Fortuny, for the win.</li>
</ul>

Top tip: admission to MNAC is free after 3PM on Saturdays and on the first Sunday of each month. You can <a href="https://www.museunacional.cat/en" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">book tickets for these as well as paid entry slots here.</a>

<h2>Save on Attractions, Tours and Activities in Barcelona</h2>

Save money on Barcelona attractions, tours and activities with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">a pass from Go City.</a> Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.

We take a look at the relative merits of two of Barcelona's most popular museums: MNAC and Museu Picasso.

Museu Picasso vs Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya - (MNAC) Comparison | Go City®

Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art or Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) Comparison

Barcelona ain&rsquo;t no shrinking violet when it comes to great art. This, after all, is a city that nurtured the work of Salvador Dal&iacute;, Joan Mir&oacute; and Pablo Picasso, all of whom are of course well represented in the city&rsquo;s galleries and museums. But you need only wander the atmospheric streets to catch a glimpse of the good stuff, from edgy Poblenou street art to the eye-popping Gaud&iacute; architecture that characterizes Eixample and its most celebrated building, the mighty Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia. Aficionados of fine art will likely also have the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art and Museu Nacional d&#39;Art de Catalunya on their lists. But what does each have to offer? We take a close-up look in our MACBA vs MNAC comparison. Read on for the gen&hellip;

<h2>Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art: The Lowdown</h2>

Vital Statistics: Opened in 1995, <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/attractions/contemporary-art" target="_blank">MACBA</a> is Barcelona&rsquo;s premier museum of contemporary art, a great white sugar cube of a building located in El Raval neighborhood, a few blocks from the fabulous Gothic Quarter. The permanent collection of 5,000 works is exhibited across 45,000 square feet of gallery space, attracting over 300,000 visitors every year.

MACBA in Brief: Aficionados of post-war art, particularly of the Spanish and Catalan variety, will find much to admire at the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art. Here&rsquo;s where you can ogle iconic pieces by the likes of Picasso, Joan Mir&oacute; and Juan Mu&ntilde;oz across several themed zones, as well as taking in rotating exhibitions celebrating experimental works by established and emerging international artists like Alexander Calder, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and the Guerrilla Girls. The MACBA building is something of a contemporary art icon itself; a modern, minimal Richard Meir-designed space with white walls, clean lines and plenty of natural light, that allows the artworks to speak for themselves. Don&rsquo;t miss the striking central courtyard and the skateboarders out front, who are as much a part of the furniture here as the eye-popping art inside.

<h2>Museu Nacional d&rsquo;Art de Catalunya: The Lowdown</h2>

Vital Statistics: An extraordinary collection spanning some 1,000 years of Catalan art, MNAC has been operating since 1934 here at the Palau Nacional, an Italianate confection high on Montju&iuml;c hill that&#39;s almost as spectacular as the 300,000-strong collection it houses. At 113,000 square feet, it&rsquo;s well over twice the size of MACBA, and pulls in close to a million annual visitors.

MNAC in Brief: The Museu Nacional d&#39;Art de Catalunya (aka the National Art Museum of Catalonia; aka MNAC) is perhaps the planet&rsquo;s best museum if you&rsquo;re in the market for an overview of Catalan art across the centuries. We&rsquo;re talking everything from thousand-year-old Romanesque church murals to medieval Gothic art, Baroque and Renaissance masterpieces, and works from the likes of Titian, Canaletto, Vel&aacute;zquez, Gaud&iacute; and more. Again, the building housing the collection only adds to the appeal, with a central dome inspired by St Peter&#39;s Basilica and a quartet of towers that nod to the architecture of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.

<h2>MACBA: Highlights &amp; What to Expect</h2>

The gallery spaces at MACBA really allow the art to shine, and it&rsquo;s rarely so busy that you&rsquo;re trying to glimpse that elusive Mir&oacute; masterpiece over a sea of heads. The collection is also helpfully arranged into zones covering three distinct periods of modern art: the forties to the sixties, the sixties and seventies, and the contemporary period. The focus here is primarily on post-1945 Catalan and Spanish art, although some international artists are also represented, especially at rotating exhibitions which are well advertised on <a href="https://www.macba.cat/en" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">the official museum website.</a> Highlights of the permanent collection include:

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">
	Joan Mir&oacute;&rsquo;s &lsquo;Oiseau&rsquo; sculptures are something of a centerpiece of MACBA: a mind-boggling collection of stylized heads, birds and other characters in bronze and terracotta.
	</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">
	&lsquo;Sterno&rsquo; is a celebrated 1985 piece by Neo-expressionist artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. His homage to Afro-American cultural heroes features the intense brushstrokes and voodoo images that characterize his work.
	</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Spanish artist Ignasi Aball&iacute; pushes the boundaries of contemporary art with an approach that uses multiple layers of varnish and correction fluid to &lsquo;suggest the presence of a painting rather than show the painting directly&rsquo;. &lsquo;Gran Error&rsquo; (&lsquo;Big Mistake&rsquo;) is a thought-provoking case in point.</li>
</ul>

Pro-tip: entry to MACBA is free after 4PM on Saturdays. You can also save money on entry with a Barcelona pass from Go City, which includes access to MACBA and many more attractions, activities and tours around the city, including Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s Casa Batll&oacute;, a guided tour of the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia, and more. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/attractions/contemporary-art" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Find out more about the pass and buy yours here.</a>

<h2>MNAC: Highlights &amp; What to Expect&nbsp;</h2>

There&rsquo;s plenty more to see inside once you&rsquo;re done gazing in awe at the soaring domes and Romanesque towers of the Palau Nacional&rsquo;s stunning exterior &ndash; as well as the sweeping city views from atop Montju&iuml;c hill. Weekday mornings are generally the best time to visit, especially outside of the summer season, when you&rsquo;re far more likely to get to view the collection&rsquo;s highlights unimpeded by fellow tourists. And oh, what highlights await within, such as&hellip;

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The Romanesque collection is perhaps the best and most important on the planet, an absolute treasure trove of Catalonian religious art from the 11th and 12th centuries, taking in frescoes, murals, stone carvings, intricately detailed wood panels and more. If you only see one piece, make it the &lsquo;Apse of Sant Climent de Taull&rsquo;, a colorful wall mural by the Master of Taull, one of 12th-century Europe&rsquo;s absolute legends of Romanesque art. A key influence on Picasso, it&rsquo;s quite the sight, and has been lovingly transferred onto a replica of its original apse at MNAC, for maximum authenticity.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">It may not look very comfortable, but Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s double sofa is a fine example of his lesser-spotted interior design work. Made for his <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/attractions/casa-batllo" target="_blank">Casa Batll&oacute;</a>, it eschews right angles and straight lines in favor of ascending to the status of design icon. It&rsquo;s displayed with the Modern Art Collection, alongside classical sculpture by Dami&agrave; Campeny, landscape paintings by Joaquim Vayreda and much more.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The Mural paintings of the Conquest of Majorca is effectively the Catalan Bayeux Tapestry, and its series of frescoes representing the titular 13th-century conquest dominates the museum&rsquo;s Gothic art section. Not to be missed.</li>
</ul>

Pro-tip: admission to MNAC is free after 3PM on Saturdays and on the first Sunday of each month. You can <a href="https://www.museunacional.cat/en" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">book tickets for these as well as paid entry slots here.</a>

<h2>Save on Attractions, Tours and Activities in Barcelona</h2>

Save money on Barcelona attractions, tours and activities with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">a pass from Go City.</a> Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.

We pit two of Barcelona's heavy-hitting art museums against each other in our MACBA vs MNAC comparison.

Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art or Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) Comparison | Go City®

Casa Batlló Vs Casa Milà Comparison - Gaudí Houses Compared

Gaud&iacute; masterpieces don&rsquo;t come much more spectacular than Casa Batll&oacute; and Casa Mil&aacute;, eye-popping architectural stars of Barcelona&rsquo;s fashionable Eixample district. Designed and completed by Gaud&iacute; in the early 20th Century, these near-neighbors should be considered bucket listers for aficionados of the maestro&rsquo;s work. Though, frankly, they&rsquo;re pretty much essential viewing for anyone who possesses a) even a passing interest in unusual architectural design and/or b) an Instagram account. We took a closer look at these iconic Gaud&iacute; houses in our Casa Batll&oacute; Vs Casa Mil&agrave; comparison. Scroll for the lowdown&hellip;

<h2>Antoni Gaud&iacute;: a (Very) Short History</h2>

Born in rural Catalonia in 1852, Antoni Gaud&iacute; i Cornet rose from humble beginnings to become the chief exponent of Catalan Modernisme, popularizing an architectural style that&rsquo;s near-impossible to categorize but is always distinctly, inimitably Gaud&iacute;. His calling cards included geometrical forms, neo-Gothic flair, colorful mosaic tiling and structures influenced by his deep love of nature &ndash; think bones, tree trunks, butterfly wings, and so on. The majority of Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s buildings &ndash; 12 in all &ndash; can be found in Barcelona, and are among the most-visited attractions in town. We&rsquo;re talking the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia, Park G&uuml;ell, Casa Vicens and two of his most flamboyant confections: the UNESCO-listed Casa Batll&oacute; and Casa Mil&agrave;, all of which are included with a Barcelona pass from Go City. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Find out more about the pass and how to get yours here.</a>

<h2>Casa Batll&oacute;: The Lowdown</h2>

Who could possibly pick a favorite from these two extraordinary Gaud&iacute; Houses? Both Casa Batll&oacute; and Casa Mil&agrave; are like nothing you&rsquo;ve seen before, each with its own set of architectural quirks and fantastic visual spectacles. Here&rsquo;s the good news: you don&rsquo;t have to visit just one or the other. Not only are these dreamlike townhouses just a few minutes&rsquo; walk from each other; both are included with a Barcelona pass from Go City. The pass is ideal if you&rsquo;re planning to see a number of top attractions on your vacation, and includes entry to Casa Batll&oacute; and Casa Mil&agrave;, plus other Gaud&iacute; masterpieces including Casa Vicens and tours of the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia and Park G&uuml;ell. It also gives you access to many more Barcelona tours, activities and attractions, like the Picasso Museum and Barcelona Zoo, and could save you up to 50% on regular prices. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Find out more about the pass and get yours here.</a>

<h2>Save on Attractions, Tours and Activities in Barcelona</h2>

Save money on Barcelona attractions, tours and activities with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">a pass from Go City.</a> Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.

Name: <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/attractions/casa-batllo" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Casa Batll&oacute;</a> is named for textile magnate Josep Batll&oacute;, who commissioned Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s building redesign in 1904. It&rsquo;s known locally as the casa dels ossos (house of bones), for reasons which will become apparent&hellip;

Vital Statistics: Completed in 1906, it took 99 years before Casa Batll&oacute; was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. It&rsquo;s located on the stylish Passeig de Gr&agrave;cia in Barcelona&rsquo;s Eixample district, and is one of the city&rsquo;s most popular attractions, welcoming around a million visitors every year.&nbsp;

Casa Batll&oacute; in Brief: Casa Batll&oacute; is a pure flight of fantasy, with a hallucinatory exterior that will appeal to everybody from high-art aficionados to fans of Game of Thrones. Considered one of Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s crowning glories, it&rsquo;s truly a sight to behold. The striking dragon-crest roof fairly shimmers with blue-and-green &lsquo;dragon scale&rsquo; tiles. Glass, stone and ceramic mosaic gives the facade a textured, rough-hewn look, while the skeletal carapace and creepy skull-mask balconies on the lower levels are what earned Casa Batll&oacute; its &lsquo;house of bones&rsquo; nickname. Things are no less bonkers inside, where the staircase is designed to resemble a spine and the entrance hall feels&nbsp; a bit like being in an underwater cave, complete with tortoise-shell skylights.

Three Highlights of Casa Batll&oacute;:

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The Noble Floor. The former residence of the Batll&oacute; family features a gently undulating ceiling, mushroom-shaped fireplace and huge gallery which protrudes far over the Passeig de Gr&agrave;cia.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Roof Terrace. Ogle fairytale mosaiced chimneys and get close-up views of the dragon&rsquo;s scaly back.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Indoor Garden. This highly decorative terrace, with colorfully tiled floor and flowerpots is a tiny oasis in the heart of Barcelona.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Casa Mil&agrave;: The Lowdown</h2>

Name: <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona/attractions/la-pedrera" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Casa Mil&agrave;</a> is more commonly known locally as La Pedrera, aka &lsquo;the quarry&rsquo;, thanks to its unusual rough-hewn facade.

Vital Statistics: The last house Gaud&iacute; worked on before applying himself full-time to the Sagrada Fam&iacute;lia, Casa Mil&aacute; was built between 1906 and 1912, and designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984. No more or less popular than its near-neighbor Casa Batll&oacute;, La Pedrera also attracts around a million annual visitors.

Casa Mil&aacute; in Brief: La Pedrera was pretty controversial when it was first built. And by controversial we mean the locals hated it. Hence the somewhat unfair nickname. History has of course been much kinder to Gaud&iacute;&rsquo;s legacy and this Barcelona icon is now widely accepted to be one of the finest examples of Catalan Modernisme, all sinuous limestone curves, intricate wrought-iron balconies, and soaring mosaic-clad chimneys. Great paintings, tapestries and frescoes adorn the eye-popping interiors; rooms are also kitted out with curvaceous furnishings by Gaud&iacute; himself, each designed to slot seamlessly into the building&rsquo;s flowing waves and curves.

Three Highlights of Casa Mil&aacute;:

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Roof Terrace: a total of 28 extraordinary warrior-like stone chimneys stand sentinel on the Casa Mil&aacute; rooftop, vying for attention against some fairly spectacular 360-degree views of the city skyline.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The Whale Attic. Come over all Jonah as you enter what appears to be the belly of a leviathan, thanks to 270 arches representing a whale&rsquo;s ribcage. If that&rsquo;s not enough, there&rsquo;s also a quite excellent Gaud&iacute; exhibition to explore up here.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Courtyards don&rsquo;t come much trippier than La Pedrera&rsquo;s Flower Courtyard and Butterfly Courtyard, in which you can expect fantastical shapes and colors, complemented by beautiful blooms and great Ballard-esque insects that are quite at odds with the far more sober exterior.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Casa Batll&oacute; Vs Casa Mil&agrave; Comparison: Which is Best?</h2>

Our expert guide to two of Gaudí's Barcelona masterpieces: Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (aka La Pedrera).

Casa Batlló Vs Casa Milà Comparison - Gaudí Houses Compared | Go City®

Things to do in Barcelona for Sant Joan's Night

It has some of the best shopping, art and architecture in Europe, but those aren&rsquo;t the only reasons to make a beeline for Barcelona in June. Sure, the Catalonian capital is beautiful in spring, but summer is party season, and what better way to kick it off than with the annual Sant Joan&rsquo;s Night celebrations, held on the 23rd of June every year. It&rsquo;s actually kind of a double whammy, marking both the birthday of Saint John the Baptist *and* the recent summer solstice. But you know Barcelona: any excuse for a party, right? We took a deep dive to discover what the fiesta is all about and all the best things to do in Barcelona for Sant Joan&rsquo;s Night.

<h2>What is Sant Joan&rsquo;s Night?</h2>

The feast of Sant Joan is a sort-of Catholic church cut-and-shut of a couple of significant calendrical events. The first is the summer solstice aka midsummer aka the astronomical start of the summer season, which usually falls on the 20th or 21st of June in the northern hemisphere. The second, John the Baptist&rsquo;s birthday, falls on the 24th and is marked by a public holiday, perhaps to allow reveling Catalans to recover after all that cava, sangria and wild partying. Said partying kicks off on the evening of the 23rd, often carrying on well into the wee small hours of the 24th as families across Spain celebrate the San Juan Festival with beach fires, bar crawls and banquets.

Of course, you don&rsquo;t absolutely have to join in the Sant Joan revelries if you don&rsquo;t want to. With locals crowding the beach and plazas, this is a great time to take advantage of the rest of the city&rsquo;s relative solitude and explore some of Barcelona&rsquo;s best backstreet tapas bars. Take an evening stroll around the colorful Eixample barrio, crammed with picture-perfect art nouveau-style buildings and several Gaud&iacute; architectural masterpieces. Don&rsquo;t miss the maestro&rsquo;s curvaceous Casa Batll&oacute; on Passeig de Gr&agrave;cia if creepy bone-like facades complete with skull-mask balconies and dragon-scale tiling is your thang. Or lose yourself in the Gothic Quarter&rsquo;s labyrinthine lanes, where blind alleys, hidden courtyards, and much adventure awaits. Spot the ghostly white geese that haunt Barcelona Cathedral&rsquo;s cloisters, and the gruesome gargoyles that leer from its walls, and seek artistic inspiration on atmospheric Carrer d&#39;Aviny&oacute;, where some dude called Pablo Picasso got his first break. Wonder whatever happened to him?

<h2>Save on Tours, Attractions and Activities in Barcelona</h2>

Save on admission to Barcelona attractions with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/barcelona" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Go City</a>. Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.

Those epic bonfires and firework displays? Well, it&rsquo;s all part of an ancient pagan ritual. You see, the fires are said to feed and strengthen the sun &ndash; a symbol of wealth and fertility &ndash; as well as purifying, protecting, and warding off those pesky evil spirits. Meanwhile the traditional act of fire-jumping (exactly what it sounds like, health-and-safety fans) is said to bring luck to the leaper. Assuming, of course, you don&rsquo;t accidentally end up feet first in the flames. Three fire leaps is the norm, but some brave and hardy souls jump up to nine times, to be sure to appease the ancient pagan gods. Just remember, kids: fires and cava don&rsquo;t mix.

<h2>Traditional Sant Joan&rsquo;s Night Fun in Barcelona</h2>

How to celebrate the Festival of Saint John the Baptist like a local in Barcelona.

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