Barcelona, Spain is one of my favorite cities of ALL TIME. It has such an interesting history, a rich culture, and some of the most amazing food I’ve ever had. This post covers the 6 Places You Must Visit in Barcelona, but it definitely doesn’t cover everything. The city of Barcelona offers so much, and narrowing it down was extremely difficult. In complete honesty, I could spend several months in Barcelona and never run out of things to see, eat, or do!

Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is a Barcelona icon, actually a wordlwide icon. You really can’t leave Barcelona without visiting this architectural wonder, so that’s why it’s at the top of this list. Everything about this basilica is over-the-top (in a good way) including its history that includes the famous architect, Antoni Gaudi. Although construction began 135 years ago, the Roman Catholic basilica remains a work-in-progress. It’s about 70-80% complete as of today, and the construction should be finished in 2026 if everything goes as planned. According to Gaudi’s original architectural plan, there will be 18 bell towers and central towers when the basilica is complete. You can even go up to the top of one of the bell towers (more important details below).

This cathedral, also known as Catedral de Barcelona, is actually my favorite cathedral of all time. I know…that’s a BIG statement, but once you see this beautiful architectural wonder, you might have similar feelings. Construction began in 1928 and the cathedral was finally complete during the mid-15th century. The outside is breathtaking with its intricate bell towers and central spire, and the interior is just as stunning. You’ll get to see the famous pipe organ that took two years to complete, and don’t forget to look up and take in the beauty of the dark, slightly ominous chandeliers.

This list was really REALLY hard to organize because all of these places are so amazing! You can’t go to Barcelona and not visit Parc Guell. This Antoni Gaudi masterpiece is actually a failed housing development that was originally created for wealthy families in the early 1900s. Unfortunately Gaudi died before he had the chance to see what a success this place has become, and it was even declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. There’s so much to explore in this park, so I would definitely dedicate at least half a day to visit Parc Guell.

I call these the three casas of Barcelona, and they are more architectural beauties that you can’t miss! Even if you don’t want to go inside, I highly recommend at least seeing the outside facade of the three casas. 

There are many things within the park, but the Magic Fountain of Montjuic and the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya are the two essentials you have to see.

The Magic Fountain is not just any old fountain. Check it out on YouTube if you don’t believe me! It runs on a schedule so be sure to check the schedule and time your visit right if you want to see the fountain in action.

The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya is another architectural beauty on the inside and out. You’ll be greeted by grand stairs and a waterfall before you even enter the building, and that’s just the beginning. Be sure to set aside some time in your busy schedule for this one!

This is what I call The Street of Adventures because it’s literally a street named La Rambla that begins near the port and continues to Placa de Catalunya. I recommend beginning on one side and making your way from one end to the other as you stop by the various attractions along the way. Here are a few that I really enjoyed:

Columbus Monument– it’s one of those things that you’re supposed to see…and it’s there so why not.
Fun Fact: his finger is not proportional to his body because they wanted to make sure it was visible from below

Maritime Museum – If you are just squashed on time, take just a few minutes to admire the exterior architecture

Guell Palace

Gran Teatre del Liceu

Mosaic de Joan Miro del Pla de l’Os – it’s on the ground so keep your eyes peeled and watch where you step!

Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi

Palau Moja

El Corte Ingles- if you need anything during your trip like soaps, clothing and other essentials, this is your place

Placa de Catalunya– beautiful plaza full of life, fountains, and statues

If you have time for a few extras, La Boqueria is the local market, and it’s one of the best I’ve been to in a foreign country. Palau de la Musica Catalana is another sight to see if you have time. It’s a stunningly beautiful concert hall with some of the most ornate designs I’ve ever seen.

This list is made up of the Top 6 Places to See in Barcelona, but it’s only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this expansive city. If you have the time to explore more, I promise you’ll find some unforgettable adventures along the cobblestone streets of Barcelona. The food in Barcelona is also some of the best foods in the world. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood, the most perfect paella, and the best gelato ever (yes, even better than Italy!). I hope you’ll find a beautiful adventure on your next trip to Barcelona!