There are so many wonderful things to see and do in Barcelona, it can be hard to know where to start! Here, we have listed some of our favorites.
If you visit any of the places below or have suggestions to add to the list, get in touch via Instagram @eu_business_school. We’re collecting and sharing student recommendations so our community can make the most of their time in Barcelona.
What To Do in Barcelona - EU Students Top Picks
Sagrada Familia
This still-unfinished masterpiece designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí is a church unlike any other. With an interior designed to resemble a forest, two starkly different and incredibly detailed facades and its unique mosaiced towers, Sagrada Familia is definitely worth a visit. Make sure you book in advance to avoid the queues!
Casa Batlló and La Pedrera
Gaudí’s distinct style can be found throughout the city. Two of his most famous buildings, Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, are near one another on the Passeig de Gràcia. Look out for the elaborate modernist lamp posts which were also designed by the architect. For those interested in developing a deeper understanding of Gaudí, there are many other buildings to explore. Casa Vincens was his first residential building and offers an interesting counterpoint to the others. Book in advance for all Gaudí sights to miss the queues. For a more dynamic experience choose Casa Batlló, where an interactive app enables you to discover Gaudi’s unique aesthetic and approach to architecture.
Park Güell
There are many reasons to visit this lovely park: incredible views over the city; more of Gaudí’s unusual and beautiful designs; a wonderful green space which transforms with every season. Park Güell itself is free to enter and is a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic. If you want to get a closer look at the elaborate and famous mosaics, you will need a ticket. Again, it is wise to book ahead as visitor numbers are limited and tickets regularly sell out.
Las Ramblas and Mercado de la Boqueria
No visit to Barcelona is complete without a stroll down Las Ramblas and through the famous Mercado de la Boqueria. Typical Spanish produce and characterful tabernas make a visit to this lovely old market a must. Prices are quite high here though, so it is possibly not the best place for your weekly shop! When walking down Las Ramblas be mindful of your belongings as there are pick pockets in this area.
Parc de la Ciutadella
Situated on the footprint of the old fortified citadel, hence its name, Ciutadella is a picturesque park dotted with sculptures, a magnificent waterfall, a boating lake, orange groves and myriad meandering paths. It is where you’ll find the seat of the Catalan parliament as well as Barcelona’s zoo. A grand esplanade leads from the park to the Arc de Triomf and offers a beautiful view of the mountains behind the city.
Montjuïc
Crowned with a castle of the same name, Montjuïc offers some of the best views of Barcelona. On Montjuïc you will find numerous public parks, including the botanical gardens, a cactus garden, formal gardens and the Joan Miró sculpture park. There is a funicular that runs to the top if you don’t fancy the walk, and Hotel Miramar’s terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset. Montjuïc is also home to the Fundació Joan Miró, a light-filled museum that honors Catalan modern artist Joan Miró and connects his colorful work with the natural world outside.
Tibidabo and Collserola
The kitsch old amusement park of Tibidabo, which you might recognize from Woody Allen’s film Vicky Christina Barcelona, sits atop the mountain range of Collserola, from which Barcelona spreads towards the sea. Just behind it, the distinctive Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus can be seen from all over the city. You can take a funicular to the top and enjoy the breathtaking views for free, or pay to access the rides. Beneath Tibidabo, the Parc Natural de la Serra de Collserola is the largest metropolitan park in Europe. Walk or cycle along the Carretera de las Aigües to feel like you have escaped the city!
Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona
Popularly known as MACBA, this museum of contemporary art and culture has a brilliant permanent collection as well as rotating exhibitions. Tickets are valid for one month, so you don’t have to fit everything in the first visit. The square in front of the museum is the hub of Barcelona’s skateboarding scene – take a seat at one of the nearby bars to watch the action!
Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona
Next door to MACBA, the CCCB is a multidisciplinary center of culture with a broad range of exhibitions and programs that explore the challenges facing contemporary society. You can visit for free on Sunday afternoons, but tickets must be reserved in advance.
Museu Picasso de Barcelona
For fans of the artist, this museum is a must. The permanent exhibition takes you on a linear journey through Picasso’s artistic career, starting with works he made as a student. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions. You can visit for free on Thursday afternoons from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on the first Sunday of each month. Tickets must be reserved online in advance.