What to see in Barcelona
Antoni Gaudí left his mark everywhere: the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló and La Pedrera on Passeig de Gràcia. Modernisme continues at the Palau de la Música Catalana and the Sant Pau hospital.
The Gothic Quarter holds the Cathedral, Plaça del Rei and medieval lanes; next door, El Born has the basilica of Santa Maria del Mar and the Picasso Museum. Montjuïc and Tibidabo offer views over the whole city, and Barceloneta is the beach closest to the centre.
Neighbourhoods worth a stroll
- Gràcia: squares full of terraces and a village feel.
- El Raval: the MACBA and La Boqueria market.
- Poblenou: its own rambla and the old industrial district.
When to go
May, June, September and October combine good weather with less heat. Summer is crowded and humid; winter is mild and quiet.
Getting around
Metro, bus and tram reach everywhere; the airport is linked by train, metro and bus. The centre is walkable and most avenues have bike lanes.
What to eat
Pa amb tomàquet, escalivada, fideuà, crema catalana and, of course, a good rice dish by the sea. Neighbourhood markets are the best place to taste local produce.
Travel tips
- Book timed entry to Gaudí's buildings: they sell out days ahead.
- Many Gothic Quarter and El Born walking tours start early, before the heat and the crowds.
- Keep a morning for Montserrat, with its monastery and views.
