Barcelona, oh the ever-so-unforgettable Barcelona…this city is easily one of my favorites in the world. The energy here is indescribable and it’s all due to the great architect, Antoni Gaudí. I’ve outlined where to stay and what to see with 48 hours in this awesome city.
Looking for more information about Seville and Malaga? Check out my other Blog Posts!
When To Go To Barcelona:
Of course the spring and summer months are high seasons for tourism in Barcelona, but the fall and winter are great times to visit as there are less crowds and the weather is on point at around 65F (18C) and sunny. We came in October and the weather was so so perfect!
Where To Stay:
Our Barcelona Airbnb was AMAZING and one of the nicest we’ve stayed in thus far (and we’ve stayed in over 40). It’s located just two blocks from La Sagrada Familia and is modernly designed and spacious. We would certainly stay here again on our next trip to the city.
For $55 off your first AIRBNB booking, click HERE!
How To Get Around Barcelona:
Subway: The subway is the best way to get around the city. It’s fast, affordable and reliable, but be EXTRA careful, as Barcelona is known for a pick-picketers on the subway system.
Walking: Barcelona is quite large of a city, making walking a bit difficult. The distance from La Sagrada Familia to Las Ramblas is 3.2km (2miles), which can be a bit of a journey roundtrip, but we walked it because the weather was fantastic and we love getting lost in the streets!
Taxi: Taxis are readily available all over town and are safe and clean, but not exactly affordable. A ride from the airport to The Sagrada Familia will cost you almost 40 Euros.
Airport Aerobus: If you have extra time in your schedule, then the Aerobus is the way to go to get to the airport. The Aerobus stops at various locations in the center of Barcelona, so check the website for which stop is closest to your accommodation. For a roundtrip ticket to and from the airport to the city, it’ll cost you 10.20Euros.
Renfe Train: For quick, easy transport all around the country, Renfe Train’s are the way to go, although they’re most costly than an Alsa Bus (and they don’t offer Wifi or power outlets). Renfe allows pets on board as well, for a minimal additional feel.
Alsa Coach Bus: The MOST cost affective way to travel around Spain, if you have the extra time to spare. Alsa Bus Via Busbud is fantastic-the seats are super comfortable, the rates are affordable, and the bus has free wifi. Do note that they do not allow pets on board, so you’ll have to take the train. Book through BusBud, a reputable website.
Where To Eat In Barcelona:
We were on a tight budget in Barcelona and I cooked in at our Airbnb most days. For lunch, we grabbed quick Bocadillos (sub sandwiches with salami, chees, etc.-pictured above). Another great, cheap option in Barcelona is pizza and kebabs, which are virtually on ever corner throughout the whole city.
If you’re looking for great food within all price ranges in Barcelona, I’d check out Eater’s Blog.
Where To Party In Barcelona:
Razzmatazz:
Razzmatazz, Barcelona’s biggest night club, is one of the LARGEST clubs I’ve ever been in! It seems with every turn, you’re in a new room with a new DJ playing different music. If you like clubs, there is something here for everyone. We literally got lost for hours and had so much fun! Cost for entry is €17 at the door, but if you pre-order online, it’s only €12 + fees. Both come with a free drink. Do note that it doesn’t open until Midnight From Thursday to Sunday.
What To Do In Barcelona:
La Sagrada Familia:
Of course you know I would start with the indescribable Sagrada Familia. This iconic sight of Barcelona is Gaudi’s greatest work and is a site to be seen from both the inside and outside. This gothic meets modern-style architectural church is one of the most beautiful structures I’ve ever seen with my own two eyes. We spent longer here than at any other cathedral or sight we’ve ever been too, exploring all the ornate details and basking in its vastness and true beauty. TIP: Go at sunset so you can see the sun coming in through the stained glass windows inside, it’s magic! Be SURE to buy tickets ahead of time, or you’ll be stuck waiting in line. Cost of entry is 15€.
Park Guell:
If you haven’t figured it out by now, I’m totally obsessed with Gaudi and all his brilliant mind! Park Guell is a public park designed by his greatness and cannot be missed on your trip. Entry of tickets is limited to 400 every half hour, to ensure preservation of the park, so be SURE to buy tickets ahead of time, or you’ll be stuck waiting in line for hours. Cost per entry is 7€. You can take a bus there or a taxi ride from Sagrada Familia for about 10€.
Las Ramblas:
Las Ramblas is a popular street for shopping, street food and street performers and has to be on your list when you visit Barcelona. I wouldn’t advise sit-down dining on this street, as restaurants are overpriced and have poor service/food quality. Be mindful of your pockets/belongings on this street, as there are many people roaming around and it’s easy to have things stolen. Be on the lookout for street performers and artists selling hand-made goods, so you can take home something extra special!
Beaches:
Barcelona has over 4km (2.5mi) of beaches, which are located just 10- minutes for the city center. If you have extra time in your schedule and the weather is warm enough, grab a towel and relax in the sunshine! Sadly, we went in November, so the beach wasn’t an option for us, but I went 10 years ago when I visited the city and enjoyed every sun-basking minute!
Gothic Quarter: 
The Gothic Quarterof Barcelona a place that you must stroll through while you’re in the city. It is full of stunning architecture at every turn. Combine the scenery with trendy bars, cafes, restaurants and clubs, and you’ll have the perfect recipe for a day full of fun!
Museo Picasso:
The Picasso Museum houses one of the most elaborate collections of art from the Spanish artist. If you’re into art, then this must be stop along your journey. Also, be sure not to miss Las Meninas by Velasquez while you’re there (my personal favorite). Cost per entry is 11€.
The Antic Hospital de la Santa Creu:
The Old Hospital de la Santa Creu is a 600-year-old hospital and is an architectural masterpiece. This is the hospital in which Gaudi died and is not like a hospital at all. Cost per entry is 12€
Casa Batllo:
One of Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces, Casa Batllo, constructed in 1877, is totally abstract and unique. With a hefty price for entry at 23.50€ , we decided to take photos from the outside only.
Casa Mila:
Another one of Gaudi’s famous structures, Casa Mila (completed in 1912) was on our list, but we sadly never made it there. Again, the cost of entry (23.50€) is quite high, so you can always just take photos and admire it from the exterior.
Barcelona Cathedral:
The great Barcelona Cathedral, which was constructed between 1298-1448 is super beautiful and should be a stop along your journey in the city. Entry is free from 8:am-12:30pm and 5:45-7:00pm and a donation is required from 1:00pm-5:30pm.
Other Related Posts:
Malaga, Spain: An Unforgettable City In The Costa Del Sol
Seville, Spain: The Heart Of True Spanish Culture
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