Planning a trip to Barcelona and looking for that perfect first-time 3 days in Barcelona itinerary?
Barcelona is a vibrant and beautiful city renowned for being Catalonia’s capital and Gaudi’s hometown, whose nature-themed architectural masterpieces are scattered throughout the city. The city is best explored over a long weekend, and we have compiled the ultimate guide and itinerary for spending 3 days in Barcelona.
Is Barcelona worth visiting?
Barcelona is one of my favorites when it comes to European cities and is totally worth visiting. The city boasts stunning architecture, unique museums, and an extraordinary culinary scene.
And while many people use Barcelona as a base to further explore the region, you’ll want to spend at least a few days to discover this Catalonian gem.
Is 3 days enough time to visit Barcelona
Three days is certainly enough time to get a feel for the Catalonian capital. 72 hours in Barcelona will allow you to sample the local food, see plenty of Gaudi architecture, and even squeeze in a moment to relax.
Spending 3 days in Barcelona, you can visit the icons of this city, including Gaudí’s masterpieces (the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, Casa Mila, and Park Güell), stroll through the Gothic Quarter, dine on tapas, go to the beach, and watch the sunset from a rooftop bar. This 3 day Barcelona itinerary will help you have the best experience here.
Best time to visit Barcelona
The best time to visit Barcelona is from May to June or September to November because the weather is mild and pleasant during these times, and the crowds are not as overwhelming as during the peak summer season of July and August.
If you visit Barcelona in May or June, you can enjoy the spring flowers and festivals like the Primavera Sound music festival. September to November is also an excellent time to visit as the crowds start to thin out and the city experiences comfortable fall weather.
However, it’s important to note that Barcelona is a popular destination year-round, and each season has its charm. If you’re looking to enjoy the beaches, the summer months of July and August would be ideal. But remember that these months are also the busiest, hottest, and most expensive.
How to get around Barcelona
Metro: Barcelona has excellent public transportation with eight metro lines that can get you everywhere. However, it is a popular spot for pickpockets. If you’re traveling on a budget, a single ticket will cost you 2,40€ but a T-10 Card, good for 10 rides, only costs 11,35€. An even better option is a T-Usual card for unlimited rides within 30 days for 20€.
Taxi: Barcelona’s licensed taxis are easily identified by their yellow and black exterior, and they have to charge you by the meter. Taxis here are the cheapest in Europe, so I’d recommend a taxi over the metro if it’s more convenient.
Walking + Biking: Barcelona is very walkable and accessible to bikes. Save your money and get some fresh air!
3 days in Barcelona itinerary with a map
I Day 1: Gaudi’s architecture: Casa Battlo, Casa Mila, Palau Guell, La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell
II Day 2: Las Ramblas, La Boqueria, Gothic Quarter, Barceloneta Beach
III Day 3: Montjuic, Picasso Museum, Harbor Cable Car, Bunkers del Carmel
DAY 1: 3 days in Barcelona itinerary
Your first day in vibrant Barcelona should be reserved for the stunning Gaudi architecture.
Casa Batlló
The Casa Batlló is a building restored by Antoni Gaudí in the early 1900s. Located in the Eixample district, it was heavily influenced by the Art Nouveau style. It’s one of my favorite Gaudí buildings. Admission is €29 and includes an audio guide. Buy a morning ticket, 08:00 – 08:45, to enjoy the privilege of entering among the first. The private residence of the Battlos, included in the Golden Ticket, is totally worth it!
Casa Amatller, located next to Casa Batlló, is another unique architectural piece in Barcelona. The Amatller building was designed for the chocolatier Antoni Amatller. Inside Casa Amatller is a store selling Amatller chocolate, which is delicious! You can visit the café and order the melted chocolate served with bread.
Casa Milà
Located just a couple of hundred meters from Casa Batlló, it’s also known as La Pedrera (the Stone Quarry) because the building has a limestone facade. Gaudi worked on Casa Milà from 1906 to 1910. Skip-the-line tickets are €25.
Palau Güell
Located off La Rambla, the Palau Güell building doesn’t stand out like other Gaudí structures. Built from 1886-1888, it was designed for one of Gaudí’s patrons, Eusebi Güell. Admission is €12 and includes an audio guide.
La Sagrada Família
This is the most famous of Gaudí’s works. The most iconic piece of Gaudi’s unique style is impressive from the outside and the inside. It has been under construction for over 100 years and is supposed to be done by 2026. Gaudí spent the last 10 years working on this project, combining Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. Admission with an audio guide is €30 – but it’s worth it!
You can also climb one of the two towers: the tower on the Passion Façade or the one on the Nativity Façade. For views over the city, choose the Nativity Tower; for views out to the Mediterranean, choose the Passion Tower.
Park Güell
The Park Güell, constructed from 1900 to 1914, is a vast garden complex transformed into a public garden and is currently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tickets are €10.
DAY 2: 3 days in Barcelona itinerary
Take a stroll on La Rambla
La Rambla gathers five streets in one, that’s why it’s also known as Las Ramblas: these are Canaletas, Estudios, San José, Capuchinos, and Santa Mónica.
This popular boulevard has a broad but crowded walkway in the city center and many beautiful buildings, including the Gran Teatre del Liceu, the city’s opera house. You can also see a mosaic near the theater by famous artist Joan Miró. There are street performers galore here, making it perfect for people-watching. Even though not my favorite, this street is ground zero for tourists in Barcelona and gets swamped by crowds; it’s worth a stroll down at least once. Just keep an eye out for pickpockets.
Walk along Las Ramblas to the Christopher Columbus monument and end your stroll at Port Vell.
La Boquería
This public market has a fantastic array of food stalls and restaurants. It’s been in a building with a beautiful iron entrance for hundreds of years. It’s right off La Rambla, so the market is typically bustling. But grab a snack or lunch and enjoy the scene. There’s a wide variety of seafood, including fish, shrimp, octopus, oysters, nuts, candy, wine, and tapas.
Get lost in the Gothic Quarter
Barcelona’s old Gothic Quarter is my favorite district in the city. It’s where you’ll find the city’s oldest parts, such as ancient Roman walls and medieval buildings, all connected by narrow, winding streets. Nowadays, the neighborhood is filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants, and you can easily spend a few hours getting lost in this district.
There are numerous attractions worth seeing in the area:
Barcelona Cathedral
This classic Gothic cathedral with huge spires, colorful stained glass, and incredible wood carvings was built between the late 13th to early 15th centuries. Make sure you visit the upper terraces for an astonishing view of Barcelona. Admission is €9.
Across from the Barcelona Cathedral is Hotel Colon and a rooftop terrace with amazing views. Make sure to stop by for a drink!
Palau de la Musica Catalana
A stunning concert hall built in the modernista style between 1905 and 1908, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can take a guided tour or enjoy a musical performance within its walls. The admission fee for a guided tour is €20.
Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA)
The MACBA boasts a collection of more than 5,000 artworks featuring a broad array of Spanish artists’ works, such as Joan Miró and Pablo Picasso. If you love modern art, add this to your itinerary.
Barcelona History Museum
The museum is renowned for being one of the finest history museums available. Visitors can explore the 4,000 square meters (43,000 square feet) of Roman ruins that lie beneath the museum, and there is a complimentary, informative audio guide to enhance the experience. The museum also provides thorough explanations of its exhibits and the ruins are just stunning. Admission is €7.
Grand Royal Palace
The Palau Reial Major, also known as the Grand Royal Palace, is almost 700 years old. It provides a detailed history of the city and the region throughout the centuries. Admission fee is €7, shared with the history museum above.
Chapel of Santa Àgata
Part of the Museum of the History of Barcelona, a royal chapel that dates back to 1302. Its most captivating feature is the stunning altarpiece, crafted by Jaume Huguet and installed in the 15th century. The altarpiece contains exquisite paintings of medieval religious symbols in the style of the Middle Ages. Admission is €7.
Parc de la Ciutadella
The park is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city of Barcelona, with gravel paths that meander through tropical vegetation and palm trees. It’s also very idyllic and picturesque.
While visiting, take advantage of the opportunity to see the Arc de Triomf, a massive arch that served as the primary gateway to the 1888 World’s Fair.
Explore Barceloneta Beach
Barcelona has a long beach, Barceloneta, that is incredibly popular year-round. With its golden sand and plethora of excellent restaurants on the boardwalk, Barceloneta Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals. However, if you venture further from the center, you’ll find quieter and more pristine beaches like Sant Sebastià in the south and Somorrostro in the north.
DAY 3: 3 days in Barcelona itinerary
Explore Montjuïc Hill
Discover the Castell de Montjuïc, an expansive fortress from the 18th century that has now been turned into a museum with a long history dating back to the 17th century. Stroll through the picturesque gardens, visit the Spanish village, and explore the Olympic Stadium.
Don’t miss out on the Magic Fountain for a spectacular water show with colorful lights. You can also enjoy the panoramic view of the city from here, and watching the sunset is a particularly captivating experience.
Montjuïc’s highlights:
Castell de Montjuïc
This old fortress features military displays and information on the castle’s history. Admission is €9 (€13 including a guided tour).
Joan Miró Foundation
The foundation houses a significant collection of surrealist artworks by one of Catalonia’s most prominent artists, Joan Miró, with many of the pieces donated by the artist himself. Additionally, a contemporary art collection was curated in honor of the artist following his passing. Admission is €14.
Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
The Museum showcases Catalan art, specifically Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque pieces. In the evenings, there is a magnificent free fountain show in front of the museum. Admission to the museum is €12.
Poble Espanyol (Spanish Village)
To replicate a typical Spanish village, the Poble Espanyol (Spanish Village) was created in 1929 with 117 buildings representing various regions of Spain, such as an Andalusian quarter, a Camino section, and a monastery. It’s an excellent activity for families to explore. Admission is €11.20 when purchased online in advance.
The Olympic Ring
During the 1992 Olympic Games, hosted by the city of Barcelona, the excitement was on the Olympic Ring, which includes the Olympic Stadium, Palau Sant Jordi, and the Olympic Esplanade. You can explore the entire area for free.
Visit the Picasso Museum
Learning about the life and work of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century is very interesting at the Picasso Museum. Opened in 1963, the museum is the most comprehensive collection of Pablo Picasso’s works in the world. The museum also has drawings, ceramics, and engravings by Picasso in addition to his paintings. Admission is €12.
Ride the harbor cable car
The red car harbor aerial tramway links Barceloneta with Montjuïc Hill, providing a 10-minute journey with spectacular vistas of Barcelona, with the port and sea visible on one side and the city on the other.
Additionally, a restaurant atop the Sant Sebastià Tower in Barceloneta is accessible via an elevator.
El Carmel Bunkers
After the Spanish Civil War, when the bunkers were built, they became a shelter for around 7% of Barcelona’s population by the end of the 1950s.
The Carmel Bunkers is one of the best viewpoints from which you can see the whole city of Barcelona, with sunset picnics being a favored activity among locals.
More things to see and do in Barcelona
If you have more time in Barcelona, there are plenty of activities to fill your time.
Hospital De Sant Pau
After more than a century as the home of the Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau, an ambitious restoration project following the transfer of all healthcare activities to the new Hospital has restored the cultural and artistic glories of the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site, the most important work of Catalan architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner.
It is the largest architectural project of modernism, the Sagrada Familia being its only rival in size.
Explore Mount Tibidabo
Tibidabo, built in 1899, is among the oldest amusement parks in the world. Located on a high mountain in the Serra de Collserola, it offers a breathtaking view of Barcelona, the coastline, the rides, games, and available eateries. The park is open during weekends, except in the winter, and admission is €35.
Watch a soccer match at Camp Nou
If you are a soccer fan, the best way to experience Cam Nou is to watch a soccer match and immerse yourself in the local passion for the sport. If watching a game is not possible, a tour of the stadium and the FCB Museum is available.
Head to Montserrat
Located just an hour’s train ride away from the bustling city of Barcelona, the Montserrat mountain range provides an ideal escape from the urban atmosphere.
While there, visit the renowned Black Madonna shrine at the Santa Maria de Montserrat monastery built into the mountain. According to legend, the Black Madonna was carved in Jerusalem during the early years of Christianity.
Additionally, the Benedictine monastery and the valley of unique, rocky pillars offer great opportunities for photography.
Furthermore, Montserrat has an Art Museum that exhibits pieces by renowned artists such as Monet, Dali, Picasso, and many others.
Take a day trip to Girona
Girona is just 100 kilometers or 62 miles from Barcelona. It’s a great destination in Spain and is often overlooked by travelers. You can visit the Cathedral of Girona and admire the Monastery of Saint Daniel. Climb the city walls, wander the Jewish Quarter, and enjoy one of the many cafés. Don’t miss a stroll on the Eiffel Bridge.
Game of Thrones was filmed here, so book a Game of Thrones walking tour if you are a fan.
Overall, the city has a lot of history and delicious food. A high-speed train will take you to Girona in about 40 minutes. Return tickets start at €20.
Travel tip: The Trainline app is my go to when I plan my Europe trips. Traveling by train is such a relaxing experience, plenty of space to move around, and enjoy stunning views of Europe from the windows. You can bring as much luggage as you want to. You can also find the most affordable train tickets on Trainline when booking in advance. It’s also perfect for last minute trips.
Where to stay in Barcelona
W Barcelona
The W Barcelona Hotel will impress you from the moment you see it. Its unique sail-like structure beside Barceloneta Beach offers magnificent Mediterranean and city views.
Guests can enjoy its spa, two pools, rooftop bar, and luxurious rooms. The hotel’s restaurant offers panoramic views over the city, and the beach club & restaurant provides the ultimate beach burger experience.
As the only hotel in Barcelona with direct beach access, the W Barcelona is perfect for those wanting a relaxing vacation and enjoying the beautiful city.
H10 Madison
Known for its beautiful rooftop terrace with a plunge pool, bar, and views of the city, H10 Madison offers guests a place to relax at one of the best locations in the city.
The hotel has a variety of room choices ranging from one-bed to family suites. Guests can enjoy a buffet or a la carte breakfast at the on-site restaurant, use the business center, or relax in the snack bar.
H10 Madison is the ideal location for those wishing to be centrally located.
Also centrally located, H10 Cubik is very close to the Barcelona Cathedral. Its interior design is fantastic & plays with geometric shapes and pure colors. It features bright rooms, the Market Restaurant and the spectacular Atik Terrace with plunge pool and stunning views of the Cathedral.
Hotel Casa Camper
Offering 30 rooms and 10 suites, Hotel Casa Camper is a stylish hotel located in the heart of the artistic Raval area within walking distance of La Sagrada Familia.
With an on-site Michelin-star restaurant, guests can enjoy the urban-themed tapas bar or an upscale Japanese restaurant. The hotel offers a complimentary 24-hour snack area, a terrace restaurant and bar, and designer bedrooms that give guests a view over a garden or the city.
This hotel should be the choice for those wanting a unique hotel and the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Where to eat in Barcelona
The city of Barcelona has fantastic food. Check out some of my favorite places.
Coffee shops
I love a good cup of coffee and always look for the best ones in the city.
Nomad Coffee Lab – hides behind an urban jungle of potted plants on the well-known Passatge Sert in the Born Quarter.
Syra Coffee – Several locations in Barcelona
Tostaderos Bon Mercat – It’s located in the middle of the Gothic Quarter, so you must stop here while exploring the area.
Cafe Cometa – Located in a vibrant neighborhood in Barcelona
Restaurants
El Nacional – Located at the heart of Passeig de Gràcia. It’s a gorgeous food hall featuring four restaurants and four bars featuring classic Spanish cuisine. Think Eataly, but Barcelona-style.
Caravelle – One of the best all-day brunch spots in Barcelona, in the heart of Raval.
Brunch & Cake – Multiple locations, very charming and Instagramable. Perfect for brunch, serving classic dishes with a whimsical twist.
Vinitus – The restaurant offers Mediterranean and Spanish cuisines. Try excellent Spanish tapas, grilled cod, and gambas al ajillo.
The Steak House BCN – Located in the heart of the city, on the Rambla Catalunya, offers a unique atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food.
Ciudad Condal – Located on the Rambla de Catalunya, serves all kinds of tapas
Catalana Serveceria – beer bar and a tapas restaurant in Barcelona. Serves all kinds of tapas and “montaditos” (pieces of bread with something on top).
Milk Bar & Bistro – Perfect for brunch, located in the Gothic Quarter.
La Tasqueta De Blai – Budget-friendly, most tapas have traditional options that pair perfectly with the house-made sangria.
Barcelona City Cards
The city of Barcelona has three options for discount attraction cards.
GO CITY BARCELONA PASS
This card will get you free admission to over 20 attractions in Barcelona. A 3-day pass costs €159. If you book tickets on your own for everything listed in this Barcelona itinerary (covered with the Barcelona Pass), you will spend less, so it is not worth it.
BARCELONA CARD
The Barcelona Card includes unlimited transportation in Barcelona, free entry to multiple museums, and price reductions on other attractions. A 72-hour Barcelona Card is available for €48. Following this 3 days in Barcelona itinerary will give you free admission to MNAC and the Joan Miró Foundation. Furthermore, you will receive slight discounts on tickets to Casa Amatller, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà – La Pedrera, and Park Güell.
BARCELONA CITY PASS
This pass includes admission to La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Barcelona, free airport transport, and discounts on other attractions. However, it is only worth it if you plan to take the tour. The package price starts at €94.
Travel Tip: Skip the discount cards and book your tickets online and in advance to save time and money (online tickets are cheaper vs. tickets purchased at the ticket office).
Barcelona Tours
If you prefer joining guided tours and experiencing the city with a group, Get Your Guide has some great options.
Barcelona has something for everyone. You can squeeze in the main highlights of Barcelona in three days, with the above itinerary giving you enough time to gorge on tapas and sangria while not rushing around.
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