mar bella

Best Beaches in Barcelona

By Dom Bewley

Ah, Barcelona. The Count City. One of Europe's premier places for great food, sunny weather, and a whole heap of culture. And, of course, a tourist's paradise. There's so much to see and do all across the city you might be overwhelmed. After a day of shopping, eating, and culture-absorbing, you might need a nice rest. Or, maybe you're looking for a little sun-soaked thrill? No matter your desires, you'll find it all, and more, at the beach! Golden sand, clear blue sea, and a sky to match. Just thinking about it is enough to give you goose pimples. So, if you're heading to beautiful Barcelona for a short or longer-term stay, you'll want to know which beaches are the best. Well, you're in luck. We've researched the best beaches in Barcelona, so you don't have to. Read on, and discover which is right for you.

Featuring:

  • Barceloneta
  • Mar Bella
  • Sant Sebastia
  • Nova Icaria
  • Bogatell
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Barceloneta

Barcelona's most famous beach, and the jewel in the city's sandy crown, Barceloneta holds that title with good reason. Golden sand as far as the eye can see. Well, nearly 1400ft of it, at least. Named after the eponymous fishing area where it resides, Barceloneta is truly one for the excitable, thrill-seeking tourist. Whether it's parties past sunset, a great assortment of seafood right on your 'towelstep', or a little seaside shopping, Barceloneta's got you covered.

It's undoubtedly the most lively of the beaches on this list. And, given its renown worldwide, will likely be the busiest too. However, for those of you looking to add a little spice to your sandy stay, it's easily one of the best beaches in Barcelona. There are watersports, more bars than we can count, and other entertainment that'll excite you throughout the day and into the early hours.

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Mar Bella

Let's switch gears for a moment. If Barceloneta's vibe is a little much and you're looking to really relax, then Mar Bella is for you. Known as the quietest beach in the city, it's relatively free from the tourist trappings of other beaches. You won't find bars and parties here. Just calm, peaceful beaches with calm and relaxed people.

Of course, that doesn't mean all you'll be doing is lying down and soaking up rays. There's windsurfing and kayaking on offer for you daredevils out there. It's also worth noting that it's a nudist beach. Now, that doesn't mean you have to go in your birthday suit, but it does mean that other people probably will. But hey, it's the 21st Century. Good for them. And you, if that's your thing.

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Sant Sebastia

However, if you're looking for something that treads the line between vibey Barceloneta and the zen-like Mar Bella, never fear. Sant Sebastia is here, and it's one of the best beaches in Barcelona!

Often considered the Saint-Tropez of Spain, Sant Sebastia has many of Barceloneta's best bits; the bars, the food, and the activities, but with a fraction of the people. There are sea sports to take part in, boats to relax on, and an entire ocean to swim beneath. You can even do your best Hasselhoff impression and join one of the many volleyball games you'll find. Smash that ball, yeah! Now that's volleyball! But like Mar Bella, it's definitely more laid back, so much so that, like Mar Bella, it also accommodates nudists. So, just be aware that there'll likely be some skin on show.

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Nova Icaria

Now, the above beaches might not be for everyone. If you're planning to bring the kids with you, perhaps a more clothes-friendly environment will stop any awkward staring or comments. Anything but the staring and comments. Well, Barcelona's got another great beach just for you. Nova Icaria is perfect for families, with a mix of kid-friendly activities like volleyball and water sports, and a nice mix of places to eat and grab a drink to cool off.

Plus, if the sand, sun, and sea aren't enough to keep their curious minds busy, Barcelona Zoo is just a short walk from the beach. There are hundreds of animals to meet, a reptile house filled with exotic species, and the African Savannah section where your little ones can mingle with giraffes, gazelle, and elephants. What more could a child, and a tired adult, want?

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Bogatell

And, finally, for those of you looking for a more grown-up version of Nova Icaria, look no further than Bogatell beach. Firstly, it's a beach, so expect sand, lounging in the sand, and the chance to tan your pale, vitamin d-starved body. There are also plenty of activities to participate in, from ping-pong to volleyball. All that, and nary a whippersnapper in sight. Bogatell has a higher average age than the other beaches. Perfect for the more mature of you, whether in mind or body.

Bogatell is classed as a Blue-Flag Beach, meaning it takes a sustainable approach to its shoreline. For the layman, including us, that means it's cleaner. And, as you'd expect from a Blue-Flag beach with a rubber-stamped body of water, Bogatell has some of the best watersports activities in Barcelona. Windsurfing, kitesurfing, actual surfing, and much, much more. And, after all the action - or inaction - there's a wealth of bars and restaurants just a short walk away. They're sure to quench your thirst or satisfy your well-earned hunger. Or, if you just need to cool down, go grab an ice cream at one of the pop-ups along the beach.

And those were just some of the best beaches in Barcelona. No matter what vibe you're looking for, there's sure to be the perfect beach for you. And, if you're looking for more things to do while you're in the scintillating city, why not add a little culture? Barcelona has a wide variety of art galleries to peruse, and museums to fill the brain to the brim. If you need a break from the sun, why not try some indoor activities? Taking that special someone on your trip? We've got perfect couple's activities just for you.

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Guell
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Top 10 things to do in Barcelona: our must-see sights

Barcelona is a city blessed with having it all. From blissed-out beaches and otherworldly architecture to great food and a pumping cultural scene overflowing with parties, festivals and events. If you need a city break that will impress on every level, you have just found the ultimate destination. But with so much to keep you occupied in this world-class city, it helps to have a few insider tips to help you pin down the absolute essentials – places you simply cannot miss from your Barcelona bucket list. Which is why we’ve knocked up our ultimate list of things to do in Barcelona. Use it wisely, and you’ll be on the road to a perfect adventure in the stunning Catalan capital. Make sure you don’t miss... La Sagrada Familia – Antoni Gaudi’s iconic basilica La Pedrera – a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture Casa Vicens – a psychedelic mansion Park Güell – Gaudi’s serene public park The Old Town and Gothic Quarter – the city’s historic cultural heart Museum of Contemporary Art – home to world-renowned contemporary artworks Barceloneta Beach – a fine slice of city sun, sea and sand Parc de la Ciutadella – park perfection Aire de Barcelona Ancient Baths – a hidden refuge Castle Montjuïc – breathtaking skyline views Antoni Gaudi’s Architecture Barcelona owes a lot of its good looks to Antoni Gaudi, the famed Catalan architect who designed some of its most spectacular and stylish landmarks. Perhaps the most famous of these is La Sagrada Familia, a towering unfinished basilica that must be seen to be believed. View the building’s elaborate neo-Gothic towers before stepping inside to view the gob-smacking geometric ceiling, which feels like you’re looking into a colorful kaleidoscope. La Pedrera Next up on your Gaudi architecture to-do list is the lavish La Pedrera, a striking UNESCO World Heritage Site built between 1906 and 1912. As another fine example of Gaudi’s unique Modernisme style, you’ll experience a fascinating façade that twists and turns its way upwards towards a fine roof-top terrace featuring striking city-wide views. You won’t forget the roof’s 28 radically designed chimneys that look more like chess pieces than air vents. Casa Vicens This magical multicolored mansion is one of Gaudi’s more overlooked creations, but certainly shouldn’t be missed thanks to its ornate orientalist designs. One of the first-ever houses that Gaudi designed, you’ll be overwhelmed when you see how vibrant it is. The outside looks like a fortress from some sci-fi fantasy film, whilst inside, you’ll be faced with palm-tree painted walls and ceilings that could have easily been transplanted straight from a Marrakech riad. Getting in: tickets for La Pedrera and Casa Vicens are included on a Go Barcelona pass. Park Güell Round off your Gaudi galavant with a walk in his picturesque park, created in 1900 and filled with his typically extravagant designs. First, take a well-earned breather in the landscaped gardens, before weaving your way through a maze of mesmerizing buildings, decorated in colorful mosaics and fine tilework. Don’t miss the cheeky dragon sculpture at the park’s entrance. City Living Hitting the Old Town and Gothic Quarter Take a break from Gaudi’s gorgeous designs by delving into the old town and checking out some local haunts. Head to the city’s history-drenched Gothic Quarter, where you could easily get lost down one of the quaint alleyways, filled with Medieval architecture. A great way to prevent this from happening is opting for a fascinating walking tour, where a knowledgeable guide can help explain the importance of some of the area’s notable attractions, like the ruins of the Roman Forum in Plaza de Sant Jaume, or the saintly Cathedral of Santa Maria del Mar. A Go Barcelona pass gives you access to a great one that covers all of the area’s major attractions. Museum of Contemporary Art Next up, get your creative fix at Barcelona’s massive Museum of Contemporary Art, a futuristic artistic haven in the heart of the city’s ancient Chinatown district. See a vast collection of over 5,000 artworks from heavyweights like Jean-Michel Basquait, Alexander Calder and Juan Muñoz. It’s the perfect place for some peaceful reflection, and if you head outside afterward, you can take a coffee in one of the cute cafés along the side streets while dodging the skateboarders who love hanging out in the area. All in all, it’s a pretty cool place to chill. Getting in: tickets to the museum are included on a Go Barcelona pass. Barceloneta Beach Spain wouldn’t be Spain without its sensational coastline, and Barcelona offers a surprisingly slick patch of it at Barceloneta Beach, a beautiful 4.5km stretch of sweeping sands backed by busy restaurants, sunbathers, roller-blading locals and palm trees. The huge sail-shaped W Hotel stands proudly at the end of the beach and sparkles like magic when the sun is shining on it. Don’t miss a cocktail at its slick rooftop sun-terrace. Alternative Barcelona Once you’ve covered all of Barcelona’s big hitters, from beaches and bars to the Gaudi buildings, why not uncover some of the city’s hidden gems and adventurous activities? A great starting point is a visit to the Ciutadella Park, with its grand fountains, tropical palm trees and fanciful follies. A great way to explore this 19th-century jewel is by hopping on a snappy Segway scooter, where you can scoot around the park’s scenic sites in speed and style. A Go Barcelona pass gives you free access to a one-hour Segway tour, where a guide will show you everything you need to see, including the Barcelona Zoo and the striking red-colored Arc de Triomf, which was designed for the Barcelona World Fair in 1888. Aire de Barcelona After whizzing around the park, you might need a lie-down, or perhaps even a relaxing massage, so head straight across the road from the park into the tranquil refuge of Aire de Barcelona and forget that you’re in one of Europe’s most action-packed cities. These ancient thermal baths will transport you to a world of total relaxation as you dip yourself in the spa’s warming pools. The atmosphere is truly dreamy and will remind you of being in a traditional Turkish bath – think flickering candles, aromatic scents and endless helpings of mint tea. Book a botanical oil massage and you’ll be good to go for another round of city sightseeing. Montjuïc Castle Top off your Barcelona top ten with some wonderful panoramic views of the city from the hilltop military fortress of Montjuïc Castle. This imposing building offers the perfect vantage point to enjoy spectacular views out to the sea and across the city’s rooftops as you stand on the castle’s rustic ramparts. Don’t miss the manicured gardens around the fortress, which only add to its charm. Save on admission to top Barcelona attractions Explore the best things to do in Barcelona with the Go Barcelona pass. Select from top attractions with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes, where you’ll enjoy access to must-see museums, exciting river cruises, fun tours and much more. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers and events to help you make the most from your travels.
Lee Dales
Barcelona Couples Header
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Romantic Things to do in Barcelona

Spain is without a doubt one of the most romantic countries in Europe, filled with glorious food, stunning architecture and idyllic beaches. Most popular with tourists is Barcelona, with thousands of vacationers flocking to the Catalonian capital each month. So, it’s no surprise that you’re looking to plan a romantic vacation to Barcelona. Here we’ve put together a list of the most popular attractions and activities when searching for romantic things to do in Barcelona, including... La Sagrada Familia Casa Batlló La Pedrera Park Güell Moco Museum Erotic Museum La Boqueria Market Turó de la Rovira and more.... 1. La Sagrada Familia If Barcelona is famous for one thing, it’s the stunning architectural work of Antoni Gaudí. With his masterpieces dotted across the city, it would be hard to miss a visit to at least one of them. La Sagrada Familia, perhaps the most famous landmark in Spain, is a must for visitors in Barcelona and it’s sure to get those sparks flying. Take a guided tour around the basilica, where you can learn about the building's different facades and the fascinating history behind this awe-inspiring building, which is still yet to be completed! If you have a spare moment, taking a lift to the top of the building will offer you unforgettable views of Barcelona from one of the tallest churches in the world.A few of Gaudi’s other creations include Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, both of which are located on Passeig de Gràcia, so pay them a visit if you’re passing. 2. Park Güell Park Güell is the perfect place to take a romantic stroll. Overflowing with yet more of Gaudi’s modernist architectural works, spending a few hours here and taking a guided tour is definitely worth your time. 3. Moco Museum A visit to a museum or two won’t go a miss on your romantic getaway. The Moco Museum is an independent museum full of modern and contemporary art that is sure to blow your mind. Check out the incredible immersive exhibitions – the perfect place to snap that couple's pic to send to the family group chat. 4. Erotic Museum Another popular option, perhaps not one for the group chat, is the Erotic Museum of Barcelona. Centrally located on La Rambla, why not swing by for a bit of a sexy history lesson? Here, you’ll explore the unusual history and culture of eroticism through playful exhibits and unique artifacts. This is definitely one for a passionate adventure in Barcelona. 5. La Boqueria Market This bustling market can be found in the heart of Barcelona. From colourful sweets and fresh fruit to jamón ibérico and spices and nuts, this market is a foodie's dream. Popular with locals and visitors alike, La Boqueria is a treat for all senses so dive right in to find the best deals around. As well as the ingredients listed above, there’s plenty of top-notch tapas bars where you can sample the market’s fresh produce right then and there. 6. Tapas, Sangria and more Evenings in Barcelona with your other half are undoubtedly best spent enjoying scrumptious food and sipping on the Spanish classic, sangria. We suggest heading to the Gothic Quarter or venturing along the marina, where you’ll find hundreds of bars and restaurants offering up the tastiest paella and tapas. 7. Turó de la Rovira Or, if you fancy something a bit more homemade, make the trek to Turó de la Rovira, also known as the Bunkers del Carmel, and pack a picnic. Once used as a strategic defence site during the Spanish Civil War, this incredible viewpoint sits 262 meters above sea level, giving unparalleled views of the city. Be warned, it’s a bit of a hike, but cosying up to watch the sunset with a glass of sangria in hand doesn’t sound like a bad idea, right? 8. Old Town and Gothic Quarter Still looking for activities to inspire love? Wander around the streets of Barcelona on an Old Town and Gothic Quarter Tour. Take in the charm and character of the Cuitat Vella and explore the city’s rich history and culture as you navigate the narrow streets with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll find plenty of hidden gems along the way too so keep your eyes peeled. Save on Attraction Admission So there you have it –- a few romantic things to do in Barcelona that are guaranteed to give off those date night vibes so you can fall in love all over again! A few of these Barcelona attractions are included on the All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass with Go City®, so check out what options we have to save on attraction admission.
Cara Merren
week in barcelona
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A Week in Barcelona

Spending a week in Barcelona for your vacation, but fearful of missing any of the city's highlights? Never fear; we're here to do all the work for you. Relax and read on as we outline a perfect week in Barcelona! Day 1 We'll take things easy at the start! You may have been traveling for hours, and you'll have to get used to the time difference. Make your way to your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb, put your things away, and have a nice sit-down. You've earned it, buddy. When you have settled, head out and explore the local area. You may well be staying at one of the areas we mentioned in our neighborhoods or where to stay guides, so have a browse and see what's good. You'll doubtless find a local cafe to have a meal and a coffee, a restaurant if you want something more substantial, or dare we say, a bar if you're feeling daring. You could also check our market guide if you want to cook something back home. It's early days yet, so don't worry too much about being too busy. You've still got a week in Barcelona, after all! Then, get to the resting; big day tomorrow! Day 2 For your second day in the Catalan capital, we suggest you see all the most recognizable of Barcelona's landmarks. With enough planning and forethought, this is more than possible to do on foot. However, we recommend you save yourself the trouble and board a hop-on, hop-off bus tour instead! These run all throughout the day, and will take you to all of the city's great architectural monuments! Highlights include Casa Batlló, Plaça Catalunya, Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, La Pedrera, and Mercat de Sarrià. Many of these are Gaudi's seminal works, and getting to all of them in a day is pretty good going! And the best thing is that if one takes your fancy, you can get off, go exploring, and then catch the next bus to the next destination. Feasibly, you could go and see everything up close, and still get to the end before the sun sets! Then, when you've seen it all, walk back and see what's going on in the city! Day 3 On day three of your week in Barcelona, we're going to travel...through time itself! Sort of, at least, as we recommend you go and check out the city's more historic areas. Appropriately named 'Old Town', or Ciutat Vella if you want to get cultural, it's one of the most untouched places in the country. You'll see monuments to the old Roman occupation, medieval buildings that still stand tall (somehow), and plenty of winding cobbled streets filled with hidden cafes and pubs. If you want a deeper dive, take a guided tour of the area and learn all about what happened when. Get a few snaps at the gothic Barcelona Cathedral. Entry is free before midday, so all the more reason to venture out early. Then, visit Boqueria Market and follow the delightful smells to your snack of choice. End the day by exploring the neighborhood's surprisingly deep nightlife, if that's your thing, and try making some local friends along the way! Day 4 Get up bright and early for this one, because on day four, we recommend you head outside of the city. We're heading to Montserrat, aka the Serrated Mountain, to explore one of Catalonia's most spiritual places. Thankfully, you can have all the travel taken care of by booking a bus tour from the city center. This air-conditioned vehicle ensures you can relax, save your strength for all the exploring you'll be doing, and you're free to take pictures throughout the journey! Once you arrive, admire the stunning views across the plains, go see the monastery, visit the nearby museum, and grab a spot of lunch at Mirador Restaurant. Right next door, you'll find the Stairway to Heaven sculpture, then you're free to continue on. Further up the mountain is the Santa Cova Chapel, and from there, Sant Miquel's Cross. All this exploring will take you most of the day, so make sure to bring plenty of water with you so you don't get dehydrated! Then, when the day is done, and you've filled up a camera roll, take the cable car back down the mountain and make your way home. Phew! Day 5 Day five is culture day, so put on your most elaborate cultural hat and prepare for artsy and historical explorations! There's the Picasso Museum, where you'll get to explore the life, times, and works of the famous brushstroker. Modern art marvels can be explored at the Moco Museum, featuring works from current artists like Banksy as well as contemporary artists from the early 20th-century such as Dali. For family-filled fun, go explore the weird and wonderful offerings at the Museum of Illusions at the Big Fun Museum. To satisfy all your scientific curiosities, venture into CosmoCaixa, which lets you explore the smallest atom to the largest galaxy. Learn more about Catalonia and, by extension, Barcelona's rich history at the Museum of Catalonian History. Or, learn more about the musical heritage of the area at the Museum of Music! Whatever your cultural desires, you're bound to find them sated in the city. Day 6 With your week in Barcelona nearly over, it's time to relax. If the weather's good, why not head to the beach? Barceloneta is the city's most famous and busiest beach, with plenty of beachside bars and restaurants to tuck into seafood treats. But, if you're looking for a quieter, more secluded stay, check out our guide to Barcelona's best beaches. Alternatively, if it's too hot or too cold to head beachside, why not take a picnic to one of Barcelona's fabulous parks? Coming in all shapes and sizes, there's bound to be one close by that ticks all your park-related boxes. Then, wander home and stop by a new restaurant for some authentic Catalonian tapas. Day 7 And finally, we come to your final day in the city. Your week in Barcelona has flown by! So, let's look at doing some mop-up before you head home. If you want to pick up any presents for your people back home, why not take a trip to La Roca Village? If you'd like a look at Barcelona's evolving architecture throughout history, visit Poble Espanyol. Soccer fans might want to take a trip to Camp Nou and take a tour of FC Barcelona's famous stadium. Animal lovers could go see some critters at the zoo or the aquarium. Or, try seeing the city's skyline from a different perspective with a boat cruise! Then, go back, pack, and get some sleep in preparation for your trip home. And that's our guide to a week in Barcelona!
Dom Bewley

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