7 Best Things to do in Barcelona + Local Tips! [2024]

Straddling Spain's northeastern coast, the beautiful Barcelona is threaded with plenty of things to do and see. Barcelona's known for its bustling boulevards, majestic monuments, tasty tapas, turquoise beaches, and wild nightlife. There's no doubt that your visit will be full of exciting adventures. 

Look no further because I've got you covered, whether you're looking for Gaudi's masterpieces, ancient Roman ruins, a football-fueled trip, or a simple taste of local life. Here are the 7 best things to do in Barcelona, Spain.

Best things to do in Barcelona, Spain

1. Soak up the views from Bunkers del Carmel. 

Bask in all of Barcelona's beauty from one of the city's top lookout points, Bunkers del Carmel.

This Barcelona sightseeing spot is locally known as 'Turó de la Rovira.' Not only does it boast panoramic views overlooking every single side of the city, but it also upholds a rich history. Serving as former anti-aircraft bunkers from the Spanish Civil War, this must-see in Barcelona attraction lets you dive into the city's extensive history.

This hot spot is easily one of the best free things to do in Barcelona, and it gets even better by night. Head here for sunset, when the Sagrada Familia, Montjuic Castle, and the entire city light up. Bunkers are something you simply shouldn't miss! 

2. Go wild in the Tibidabo Amusement Park. 

If you're on the hunt for things to do in Barcelona with kids, then the Tibidabo Amusement Park is your best bet.

This Barcelona tourist attraction is perfect for a fun day out of the city, filled with sunshine, stunning views, and a colorful selection of rides, amusement, and activities. Coined as Europe's third-oldest theme park, Tibidabo also harbors a hefty history. Check out the tickets, pricing, and schedules.

Next to the theme park is the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, so if you're interested in religion or history, you can kill two birds with one stone and visit here. 

3. Get lost in Park Güell. 

This urban utopia is nothing short of a giant playground.

The Park Güell garden complex, constructed back in the early 20th century, is one of the best things to do in Barcelona. Climb up the iconic Escalera Monumental, take a picture at the mosaic-tiled Serpentine Bench, and go on a sightseeing tour to the Pink Tower, Casa Larrard, or La Casa Trias. If you're going there, I'd recommend joining a walking tour!

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can expect nothing short of perfection in Park Güell.

Local's tip: If you want to ditch the bigger crowds, head to Park Güell in the late afternoon. You can also access the paid areas of the park if you arrive earlier than 8am or after 7pm! 

4. Have a picnic in Ciutadella Park.  

Barcelona's biggest park is not only a stellar spot to kick back and relax in the summer season, but it's also home to a handful of hidden gems.

The Parc de la Ciutadella is filled with an interesting international crowd, making it the perfect place to meet and socialize with other travelers! This park is one of the best free things to do in Barcelona, especially if you have kids!

Pack yourself a bottle of Catalonian cava and a bocadillo, and spend the afternoon in the sunshine! Don't miss out on the Castle of the 3 Dragons, the Catalan Parliament, and the famous Umbracle.

Whether you're spending 2 days or 10 days in Barcelona, don't miss out on this colorful Barcelona landmark. 

5. Explore the Montjüic Castle. 

If you're wondering what to do in Barcelona, then there's no doubt that an image of Montjuic might come to mind.

Famed by the Magic Fountain Show, the Greek Amphitheater, the national contemporary art museum, lush gardens, and astounding city views, Montjüic even hosts an 18th-century castle.

Get your history hat on and dive into the city's rich background!

To get to Montjuic, hop on the cable car from La Barceloneta. A one-way ticket costs €11 and only takes around 10 minutes. 

If you're out in the evening and looking for the best things to do in Barcelona at night, don't miss out on the Magic Fountain show. Montjuic is a great area to stay in for families and first-timers! 

6. Visit the Sagrada Familia. 

If you're traveling to Barcelona, this UNESCO World Heritage Site should be at the top of your bucket list. The Sagrada Familia is a sublime basilica that features Gaudi's famed Modernist architecture. Catalonia's notorious architect, Antoni Gaudi, spent more than 10 years of his life developing this masterpiece.

To this day, it's still not finished. The Sagrada Familia has, in fact, been in construction for over a century, meaning that when it is actually completed, it will have taken longer to build than the Egyptian Pyramids!

As a must-see in Barcelona, make sure to visit in the early morning so you can see the sunlight shining through the stained-glass windows! If you're interested in this monument's rich history and captivating design, book the audio guide to find out more.

‍Local's tip: Visit in the early morning so you can see the sunlight shining through the stained-glass windows! If you're interested in this monument's rich history and captivating design, book the audio guide to find out more. 

7. Go swimming at a Barcelona beach.

There's one thing both locals and tourists can agree on, and it's that one of the top things to do in Barcelona, Spain, in the summer is to head down to the beach!

Bursting with wild beach bars, passionate volleyball matches, and crowds aplenty, this city's beaches are fun. Marbella, San Sebastian, and La Barceloneta are the most popular. However, they are not necessarily the best.

Barcelona boasts some seriously spectacular beachfront – the only catch is that they're located just outside the city.

Local's tip: For a day out away from the summer crowds, head to one of the beaches in Sitges, Tarragona, or Girona! 

Plan your trip to Barcelona! 

This Spanish destination is well and truly bursting with bountiful things to do.

Whether you're after a history-packed escape, an architecture-infused vacation, or a gastronomy-based getaway, Barcelona is home to your favorite travel adventures.

Get started planning your trip with Pilot, and start the countdown now!