Romantic Things to do in Barcelona

By Cara Merren
Published: July 18, 2024
Barcelona Couples Header

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....
Image of Church, Landmark, La Sagrada Familia,

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.

Image of City, Urban, Landscape, Nature, Outdoors, Scenery, Panoramic, Cityscape, Person, Downtown,

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.

Image of Art, Accessories, Person,

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.

Image of Person, Boy, Child, Male, Food, Fruit, Produce, Pineapple, Berry, Banana,

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.

Image of Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Dating, Romantic, Male, Man, Head, Face, Baby,

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.

Image of Landscape, Nature, Outdoors, Scenery, Building, Cityscape, Urban, Panoramic, City,

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?

Image of Alley, City, Road, Street, Urban, Arch,

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
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

neighborhoods
Blog

Neighborhoods in Barcelona

Visiting Barcelona and want a deeper dive in to the city's many neighborhoods? You've come to the right place. Here, we're running down the best neighborhoods in Barcelona; what makes them tick, what to look out for, and the reasons you should visit! Including: Gràcia El Born Raval Poble-Sec Eixample and more!   Gràcia If you're looking for Barcelona's equivalent to your cool, hip, boho-chic neighborhoods around the world, then Gràcia's your spot. The good news is that it's also a friendly, family-orientated district, if you're bringing the little ones along! Throughout its many winding pedestrian streets, you'll find bars and restaurants galore, where you can pick up a refreshing beverage or some tapas nibbles if you're between attractions. Gràcia is also one of the city's most multicultural areas, so you'll come across all sorts of cuisine, from Italian to American. If you want to pick up any keepsakes or souvenirs, there are a wealth of chic stalls selling pretty much anything you can imagine. And, when the sun goes down, you'll find a brilliant bar scene backed by live performances and good vibes. And culture seekers must absolutely go out and see La Pedrera. If all that sounds like your ideal vacation destination, then Gràcia's one of the best neighborhoods in Barcelona!   El Born This classy area used to be the haunt of the rich upper class in Barcelona back in the day. Now, it's transformed into a trendy neighborhood that hides some of Barcelona's coolest places. It's no wonder, then, that you'll find the appropriately hip Moco Museum in the area. This modern art marvel houses excellent installations and fantastic street art from the likes of Banksy, so it's well worth a visit if you like your art modern and your mind blown! As for amenities, you'll find plenty of hip coffee shops, boutiques, and independent art galleries, if you're in the market for anything specific. And the night life is pretty lively too, so it's a great place to stay until the early hours!   Poblenou Poblenou has one of the most fascinating contrasts in the entire city, thanks to the traditional lower part of the district juxtaposed with the popular, gentrified areas higher up. The latter is about as close as Barcelona gets to their own Silicon Valley, so expect plenty of craft beer pubs, tech startups, and probably some hats and beards. It can be remarkable to walk through both and see the shift as old makes way for new. Plus, the influx of new blood does have its perks. Brunch is a big deal in Poblenou now, and you'll find plenty of places to express your inner brunchy self as you wander the streets.   Raval Raval has a rather colorful history as a den of miscreants and never-do-wells. Think of it as an old-timey pirate district of old. Raval has done much to brush up its image in the decades and centuries since, but if you want to know more about its gritty past, take a walking tour and learn all about it! Nowadays, Raval's cleaner image makes it no less of an exciting neighborhood to visit in Barcelona! The barrio is the hangout of street artists and skaters, so expect to see plenty of graffiti and hear heaps of hippidy hop. It's also somewhat of a cultural hub, thanks to the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (or MACBA) and the Center of Contemporary Culture of Barcelona. On top of all that, you'll find plenty of delightful cafes, bars, and trendy bars to enjoy when the sun goes down. Or while it's still up, because hey, you're on vacation after all.   Sant Antoni This charming neighborhood is named after the famed Sant Antoni Market, which takes center stage in the district. Locals travel from all over the city to sample its food and book offerings, so if you're in the area, why not go and see what all the fuss is about? The market might be the neighborhood's biggest draw, but there's plenty more going on too. Keen eyes and keener explorers will discover quirky cafes, beer-soaked bars, and some hidden gem restaurants with national and international cuisine on offer.   Poble-Sec Poble-Sec is one of Barcelona's most picturesque neighborhoods, thanks to the massive gardens that sit beneath Montjuic Hill. The surrounding residential areas offer the perfect mix of entertainment and entertainment too, thanks to the juxtaposition between the calm Montjuic Park and the bustling theater scene just a stone's throw away. Exploring the streets, you'll find plenty of bars and restaurants to park your buns and refuel, including some expat-owned joints that may cater to your sensibilities if you miss a little slice of home. Many will come for the joys of Montjuic Park, though, and choose to ride the cable car up to the castle. However, a lesser-known site is right nearby. Poble Espanyol is a recreation of Barcelona's streets, town squares, and residences throughout the centuries, all built beside one another. One minute you'll be crossing a medieval town square; the next, you'll wander down a 19th-century lane. It's truly a site to behold, and well worth a visit in you're in the area!   Gothic Quarter The Gothic Quarter, or Barri Gòtic, is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. Remnants of the ancient Roman occupiers remain, alongside medieval buildings and other timeless sights. The whole district oozes an authentic atmosphere you won't find anywhere else in the city. Local pubs and cafes are tucked into nooks and crannies within its maze of untamed cobbled streets. But you won't get stares or odd looks here; it's one of the most welcoming places you'll find. Sightseers will find plenty to snap, party-goers will find plenty to enjoy, and savvy shoppers will find many a deal to be done.   Eixample And finally, we'll end things with Eixample. Full of elegance, opulence, and extravagance, if you're looking for premium designer brands on the pricier side of the shopping aisle, you'll feel right at home in Eixample. Arguably the hub of the LGBTQ community in the city, you'll find a diverse population from all walks of life. You'll find plenty of LGBTQ bars, hostels, and clubs where you can dance the night away, as well as fancy eateries if you need some sustenance before busting a move on the dancefloor. Culturally, you'll find one of the great Gaudí's works here - Casa Batlló. It's an absolute must-visit for any fans of architecture, photo opportunities, or a passing curiosity about the weird and wonderful. And that concludes our guide on neighborhoods in Barcelona!
Dom Bewley
barcelona alone
Blog

Things to do Alone in Barcelona

Sometimes, traveling alone can be just the thing. Whether you want to meet new people on your vacation, or simply have some time to yourself, plenty of people are heading overseas by themselves these days. So why not visit beautiful Barcelona, and discover all the things to do there when you're alone? If you're wondering what to add to the itinerary, wonder no longer, because we've put together a list of the best things to do alone in Barcelona just for you! Including: Gaudí's greatest hits Explore Polo Espanyol Barcelona Bus Tour Ancient Markets walking tour Explore beautiful Monserrat Get Gaudí One of Barcelona's biggest draws is the work of master architect Gaudí. The famed builder left his unique stamp all over the city, which he called home. So, clearly, if you want the authentic Barcelona experience, you'll need to see at least some of his awe-inspiring pieces. So strap in, because we're about to talk Gaudí and then some. First off on the Gaudí hit list is Casa Batlló, which is often considered his greatest work. This striking building is an amalgamation of bone-like columns, mosaic glass wonders, and mask-like balconies. It's no wonder it's known locally as the 'house of bones'! This 700m2 behemoth was once home to the Batlló family, hence the name. The Batlló family owned a textile manufacturing empire, which is why they were able to hire the man himself to redesign their house. Next on our hist list is arguably Gaudí's most iconic structure, the Sagrada Familia. Take a tour of the famed building a learn all about its history from a knowledgeable guide to get the full experience! Alongside seeing the fantastic decor, created with a fusion of art-nouveau and gothic styles, you'll discover why the cathedral wasn't finished before Gaudí's death. You'll also get an insight into the hidden Christian symbology that permeates both inside and out. Truly remarkable. Then, there's Park Güell, Barcelona's most recognizable green space, thanks to our man Gaudí's unique stamp. Make sure to take a guided tour of the grounds, as you'll not only have access to all the best bits, but you'll also learn about the rich history surrounding each remarkable building facade and piece of art contained within. Another of Gaudí's architectural marvels is undoubtedly La Pedrera. Built over six years at the start of the 20th century, it has his unique style written all over it. From its undulating limestone façade to its twisted chimneys and ironclad balconies, it's yet another pic-hungry stop on the Gaudí tour of excellence. You think we're done yet? We're not done yet. We're going back to the very beginning with the first building that Gaudí ever designed. Casa Vicens is its name, and within its Neo-Mudéjar exterior, you'll find a permanent collection of artifacts that explore the site's 130-year history. Go for the snap-worthy architecture; stay for the insightful learning experience. Or, if you want a more visceral Gaudí experience, ahem, try the Gaudí Experience 4D! It's an interactive, immersive experience that lets you explore the life and works of the master in new and exciting ways! It features hands-on displays and touchscreens, as well as the cinematic main event where you'll be taken on a ride through his inspirations. Your seat will move as you fly above trees that mutate into columns, and much more. It's a trippy experience, for sure, but one you should experience for yourself! Congratulations! You made it to the end. Whichever way you choose to celebrate the famed architect, any of the above are easily some of the best things to do in Barcelona if you're traveling alone. Marco...Polo? If you're looking for more of a historical exploration of Catalan architecture and culture, go see Poble Espanyol. This open-air architectural museum is one of the best things to do in Barcelona if you're traveling alone. There, you'll get an insight into how different parts of the city have changed and evolved through time. This city-within-a-city contains 117 buildings, streets, and squares that recreate large parts of the city, from ancient neighborhoods to revolutionary Spain's city streets. And, on top of this mesmerizing amalgamation of history, you'll also find over 300 contemporary artworks from famous Catalan artists. Be sure to get snaps of greats by Dali, Picasso, and many more!. You can also pick up some authentic souvenirs from the onsite smiths, leatherworkers, and jewelry makers! Barcelona by bus If you're looking to see all of the city's sights in the comfort of a cushioned chair, then why not take a hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Barcelona? If you already have a packed itinerary, it's the perfect way to see everything in just a few hours. You can also get off whenever you like if you want to take a closer look at one of the city's iconic landmarks, then hop on the next one to continue the tour. Your ticket lasts for 24 hours, so feel free to make the most of it! Highlights include the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and the Mercat de Sarrià, so you'll have plenty of picture opportunities to leave your social media following in the dirt. Marketing 101 Want a closer look at Barcelona's timeless market scene? Why not take a tour of the ancient markets that still stand tall today? If you're looking for things to do alone in Barcelona, this should be high on your list! With an experienced guide in tow, you'll kick proceedings off at Boqueria Market, one of Barcelona's best. While you're learning about the market's history and traditions, you'll be able to pick up some fantastic fresh produce or delicious local snacks. Then, you'll travel through the beautiful Ramblas promenade, a former flower market that is now full of cafes, flower stands, and beautiful scenery. You'll end up at the Santa Caterina Market in the Gothic Quarter, a bustling marketplace known for its brightly-colored roof inspired by the plentiful fruits and vegetables on offer. And finally, you'll end the tour at El Born, a former market that has transformed into a residential neighborhood. The steel and glass design is sure to delight, and is more than worthy of a few snaps. Escape to the mountain And finally, we'll end this list on a bit of a cheat, because you'll need to leave the city for this one. However, it's more than worth it. Visit the picturesque Monsterrat without worrying about transportation, and explore this beautiful location for as long as you want! Start your journey on a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, then ascend Monserrat and take in the spectacular views of the city. Cameras at the ready, people; you're not going to want to miss a beat. Then, when you get up to the top, you can explore at your leisure. Go for a hike, or visit the nearby monastery. It's entirely up to you, and no one can tell you otherwise! And that's our list of the best things to do in Barcelona when traveling alone!
Dom Bewley
Madrid to Barcelona
Blog

Top Tips for Traveling from Madrid to Barcelona

Madrid to Barcelona: a journey through Spain's heart and soul By Mia Russell Embarking on a journey from Madrid to Barcelona is an exhilarating experience that promises to reveal the vibrant soul of Spain. These two iconic cities, each with unique charm and character, are separated by approximately 620 kilometers (385 miles) of captivating Spanish landscapes. Whether you're seeking the convenience of high-speed trains, the flexibility of a road trip, or the swiftness of air travel, there are multiple to travel between these Spanish gems. Discover the rich cultural tapestry of Spain as you traverse this captivating route, filled with history, art, culinary delights, and endless opportunities for adventure.   Choose Go City® and save up to 50% Buy passes from Go City® for Barcelona or Madrid and you could save up to 50% on top attractions, tours and activities. Grab a Madrid pass and enjoy it all!
Go City Expert

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.