Barcelona is great for a short break and is fairly unique in that offers all the cosmopolitan treasures of a large city while being right next to the beach. If you’re looking for a combination of a suntan beach holiday with art, culture, architecture and the buzz of a big city, there can be few better places. Below is a quick guide to things to do in 24 hours in Barcelona.
Note – like all great cities, Barcelona is a wonderful place to walk around and take in the culture with a surprise around every corner. I’ve only done short trips here – most often on the way to Benicassim festival – but it’s a place I never tire of coming back to.
Check out other summer guides and winter guides on the iRide website.
Book accommodation in Barcelona
Pictures of Barcelona
A brief history of Barcelona and its calls for independence
Barcelona traces its origins back to Roman times when it was known as Barcino. Over the centuries, the city grew into a prosperous trading hub, experiencing periods of both prosperity and turmoil. In the 20th century, Barcelona became a symbol of Catalan identity and autonomy, with calls for independence growing stronger in recent years. The push for independence stems from Catalonia’s distinct cultural, linguistic, and historical heritage, as well as political and economic grievances with the Spanish government.
Discovering Barcelona: Must-see attractions
While the Sagrada Familia is probably Barcelona’s most famous and most visited landmark, there’s a lot more to see and do in this vibrant city. Even just visiting for the nightlife alone is reason enough to come to Barcelona but if you’re looking for a little more culture, check the ideas below. Don’t forget, this city also has a great music scene and hosts numerous festivals – as well as being a convenient arrival point to get to the FiberFib Benicassim festival in summer.
- Sagrada Familia: Marvel at the iconic Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece of modernist architecture. Explore its awe-inspiring interiors, adorned with intricate sculptures, stained glass windows, and soaring spires. Ticket prices start at €20 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.
- Park Güell: Wander through the whimsical Park Güell, another of Gaudí’s creations, featuring vibrant mosaic sculptures, winding pathways, and panoramic views of the city. Entrance to the park’s monumental zone costs €10 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors.
- La Rambla: Stroll along the lively promenade of La Rambla, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, and don’t miss the famous La Boqueria market, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies.
- Gothic Quarter: Explore the historic Gothic Quarter, with its narrow medieval streets, ancient Roman ruins, and Gothic churches. Highlights include the Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça del Rei, and the Picasso Museum. Many attractions in the Gothic Quarter offer free admission or reduced prices for students and seniors.
- Montjuïc Hill: Take a cable car or funicular ride to the top of Montjuïc Hill for panoramic views of the city and its waterfront. Explore the hill’s many attractions, including the Montjuïc Castle, Magic Fountain, and Joan Miró Foundation. Entrance fees vary for each attraction.
- Barcelona FC Stadium: Experience the passion of football at the Camp Nou stadium, home to Barcelona FC. Take a guided tour of the stadium and museum to learn about the club’s illustrious history and see trophies, memorabilia, and the players’ tunnel. Tickets start at €26 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors.
- Picasso Museum: Delve into the life and work of Pablo Picasso at the Picasso Museum, housed in a series of medieval palaces in the Born district. Admire thousands of works by the iconic artist, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Admission is €12 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors.
- Barceloneta Beach: Relax and unwind at Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona’s most popular seaside destination. Take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea, soak up the sun on the golden sands, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade. Access to the beach is free.
Travelling to Barcelona
Travelling to Barcelona is convenient, thanks to its well-connected transportation network. Barcelona is served by El Prat Airport, located just 12 kilometers from the city center, with flights from major cities around the world. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi, bus, or train to reach the city center. Additionally, Barcelona is easily accessible by train, bus, and car from other cities in Spain and Europe. Once in Barcelona, getting around is easy, thanks to the city’s efficient metro, bus, and tram systems, as well as taxis and bike-sharing services. Whether you arrive by air, rail, or road, Barcelona welcomes visitors with open arms and endless possibilities for exploration and adventure.
