The Best of Barcelona in a Week
Curated By
Malak Yacout
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Boutique Travel
City Travel
Arts & Culture
Solo Travel
Spain
Barcelona
Local Culture
Local Food
Sightseeing
Bucket List-Worthy
Foodie
Curator’s statement
Barcelona, Spain, is a city that draws the heart rather than the brain. To spend time in Barcelona is to live a bit longer. I’d house this city in a heartbeat, and honestly, I'm afraid you'd relocate if you did everything in this guide.
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Things to do in Barcelona, Spain
Vibe check: Walk, rent a bike or swim at La Barceloneta. Barcelona has more beaches closer to the airport El Prat. Yet, Barceloneta never gets old.
On a hill overlooking all of Barcelona, lies Parc Guell, where you can visit the Gaudi’s house-turned-museum and get a sneak peek into his world. His stunning masterpieces include the longest (and most colorful) bench in the world. The birds sing louder than the touristic crowds and it’s just such a highlight to bask on such a monumental bench in the terrace in the sun.
Get lost in the beautiful streets of El Born neighborhood. If you don’t know where to start, pin Carrer de l’Argenteria and go from there. Then, pass by The Perfumery for a niche boutique experience and spend the afternoon at the nearby splendid Parc de la Ciutadella.
On the weekend, visit the local markets “Boquerias” to see Barcelona in motion, and grab yourself an aged manchego (Spanish cheese) baguette.
Don’t miss out Moco Museum, for the coolest contemporary art. Housed in an old building in the Gothic Quarter, the museum brings thought-provoking contemporary artists and traditional architecture in a seamlessly choreographed setup.
Watch the sunset at Bunkers.
Shop on Passeig de Gracia, Barcelona’s answer to Champs Elysees.
Day Trips
Consider Sitges a small beach town that reminds me of Brighton, UK, Andorra to cross off one of the small countries on your bucket list or even Montserrat if you’re into hiking.
Places to eat & drink in Barcelona, Spain
Pez Vela for seafood and good life ambiance. A crowd favorite at Barceloneta.
Ca L’isidre, awarded the best chocolate soufflé.
Elsa y Fred for a fantastic seasonal lunch or brunch outdoor in El Born. A must try! I had their tuna belly burger, and Truffle Brie foccacia and I’d do anything to rewind that meal and sunny setting right now.
Albe, a fire combination between Lebanese and Catalan cuisine.
The rooftop at the Barcelona Edition Hotel is excellent too.
Honest Greens - A filling meal and a healthy alternative to fine-dining, junk food and carts.
Get in touch for an extensive Map and Excel Sheet all the must try's in Barcelona, listed by cuisine, reviews and neighborhood!
Need to Know
For more travel tips in Barcelona, check out Arlette Dieddricks' guide, City Guide to Barcelona, Spain.
Travel Advisor
Malak Yacout
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Barcelona.