So you’re in Barcelona for the weekend, and you want to see it all. The key is planning wisely and you’ll be able to sail through the weekend and enjoy the wonderful food, architecture, art, gardens, and much more, that Barcelona has to offer. We’ve put together this guide to help you get the most out of your short but sweet stay in the city.
DAY 1 – Ciutat Vella
Ciutat Vella (old city in Catalan) refers to the oldest districts in Barcelona that make up what is really the ‘centre’ of Barcelona. The form of the old city has remained for the most part unchanged, meaning you can still experience it as it was centuries ago.
Barri Gotic
In the middle of the three neighbourhoods that make up Ciutat Vella is Barri Gotic, situated to the right of La Rambla. Ditch the map and spend an hour or two getting well and truly lost in its small winding streets and alleyways and you’ll stumble across a plethora of churches and small squares. If after all your wandering you somehow still haven’t found the Cathedral, pick the map back up again because it’s a architectural gem you won’t want to miss.
Highlights
- Barcelona Cathedral
- Plaça del Rei
- Museo Frederic Marès
- Plaça Sant Jaume
- Plaça del Pi
- Plaça Reial
- Iglesia de San Felip Neri
El Born
Next to Barri Gotic you’ll find El Born. Built on top of a medieval area of jousting, El Born the Soho of Barcelona. Wander through the endless boutique shops like Ivory and Studio Store and pick yourself up some locally-designed garms or one-of-a-kind gifts to bring back home with you and then rest your legs at the one of the districts fancy champagne bars.
If photography is your thing, you can discover Lomo photography at Lomography Embassy Barcelona or Lomo BCN. Buy your very Lomo camera, attend one of their workshops or just get some photographic inspiration.
Make sure you make time to stroll through the lush and green Parc de la Ciutadella for some time out from the day and unwind by the lake.
In the evening, head to El Passeig del Born. At the heart of El Born, this street is lined with funky bars and eateries and is the perfect place to experience some of Barcelona’s more sophisticated and alternative nightlife. Start off in Miramelindo and try some their more unusual cocktails and see where the night takes you.
Highlights:
- Palau de la Música
- Basílica de Santa María del Mar
- Casa Llotja de Mar
- Convent de Sant Agustí
- Paseo del Born
- Mercat de Santa Caterina
DAY 2 – Park Güell and Gracia
On Saturday we propose a visit to Gaudi’s famous Park Güell followed by a meander through the quirky Vila de Gràcia and then finally on to the beautiful Passeig de Gracia for incredible shopping and more striking architecture. We suggest you head to Park Güell early because there is a lot to see, and you’ve got a busy day ahead of you.
Park Güell
Located on a hill in one of the further away neighbourhoods of Gracia, Park Güell was designed over the course of 14 years at the beginning of the 20th century. Gaudi’s work may be scattered all throughout the city but Park Güell is a stunning collection of architecture and design where you literally feel like you’re walking through Gaudi’s own world or imagination. Here you’ll also get an incredible view of the city of Barcelona.
Afterwards you can wander down through Vila de Gracia which will eventually lead to to Passeig de Gracia. Vila de Gracia is special for its bohemian vibe, narrow streets and alternative shops a bars. It’s a neighbourhood full of character and you’ll find many places to stop for lunch.
Highlights:
- Casa Museu Gaudí
- Gaudí Experience
- Bunkers del Carmel
- CosmoCaixa
- Parc de la Creueta del Coll
Passeig de Gràcia
Barcelona’s most famous shopping street is also one of the most beautiful places to take a walk. Let your eyes wander to marvel at the architecture that makes this one of the most important avenues in the city. Between carrers Consell de Cent and Aragó you’ll find what’s known as “The block of discordance”, made up of Casa Lleo Morera, Casa Amatller and Casa Batlló, a group of different works designed by three of Spain´s leading architects. The three had very different techniques which makes the placement of the three works side by side so interesting. Another charming aspect to this avenue is the benches with street lamps lining the street which are the work of architect Pere Falqués i Urpi.
If you love a good bit of shopping, browse through the many designer, high-street and boutique shops that laden the Passeig de Gracia and then stop of and enjoy some tapas and drinks along the way.
Nearby Highlights:
DAY 3 – Barceloneta
Its’s your last day in Barcelona! Time-keeping is key here so bear in mind the time of your flight before planning the day. What we suggest is a trip down to Barceloneta, the beach areas of Barcelona. Perfect for a tranquil stroll and a relaxing last pit-stop. Grab lunch at one of the many paella restaurants down by the seafront – we recommend La Mar Salada. Located in Port Vell, the harbour area in Barceloneta, you’ll find wonderful paella prepared with locally-sourced, fresh fish for a reasonable price.
Nearby Highlights:
- Estació de França
- L’estel Ferit
- Meideval Walls
- El port Vell
- Torre del Reloj
- Torre Sant Sebastià
- Palau de Mar
Whatever you do, ensure that you book your accommodation in Barcelona ahead, especially in high season. We offer our cosy apartments in the centre of the city to make your stay comfortable and stress-free.
In prime location, it is the perfect option if you’re planning a weekend trip to city so you can cut out travel-time during the day.