Barcelona is globally known for its breathtaking architecture, delicious food, interesting culture, and people. One could easily spend weeks exploring all the ins and outs of this gorgeous Spanish city – but what would you do if you only have 48 hours? We’ve compiled a guide of our must-sees for a weekend trip to Barcelona!
Start your day off strong with a hearty breakfast! Barcelona is known for its classic eggs, fluffy pancakes, and delicious cocktails, Billy Brunch is sure to provide a great first stop. Relax and enjoy the cozy, modern atmosphere while you fuel up for your upcoming adventure.
A quick 10-minute walk from Billy Brunch is arguably the most famous landmark in all of Barcelona: The Sagrada Familia. A staple in the Barcelona skyline, the spires of Sagrada Familia are unlike any other cathedral in the world. This unique structure is well worth spending a few hours of your time checking out. Fun fact: Sagrada Familia has been under construction for nearly 150 years! Be sure to buy a ticket ahead of time, as during peak season, entry to Sagrada Familia can be booked out days in advance.
After you finish admiring the wonder of Sagrada Familia, take a stroll up Gaudí Avenue for some refuel. Gaudí Avenue is filled with lovely cafes and restaurants; it’s the perfect place to take advantage of the amazing shopping in Barcelona. Next stop: Park Güell!
Park Güell is famous for its colorful display of mosaic tiling, and no wonder. This outdoor artwork offers something new around every corner, with each new discovery as delightful as the last. Along with mosaics, Park Güell is held up by magnificent spires and columns – it truly is a sight to behold.
After stopping back at your hotel for a while to enjoy some shade and air conditioning, it’s time to experience the incredible Barcelona nightlife. The Gothic Quarter is packed with restaurants, bars, and clubs; it surely has something to offer for everyone. Take a seat for dinner in Plaça Reial, one of Barcelona’s most impressive squares, and enjoy the hustle and bustle of one of the most popular areas in Barcelona. Our recommendation: tapas! Tapas are a must-try while visiting Spain, and we’re sure they won’t disappoint. Once you’ve gotten your fill, dance the night away in this magical district, and get ready for more adventures tomorrow!
It’s time for your second day in Barcelona. Start the day off strong with a classic cup of coffee. Brew Coffee is a favorite of both locals and tourists alike – their drinks and pastries cater to a wide diversity of tastes, with every option being equally delicious!
After enjoying your Spanish coffee, meander on down to the Picasso Museum. What better place to admire the works of Pablo Picasso than in his home country? The Picasso Museum houses some of the painter’s most famous works, including Las Meninas and Still Life. The Picasso Museum is also great for those traveling on a budget: admission is free every Thursday after 5pm and the first Sunday of every month! Once you finish exploring the galleries of this famous artist, head on over to Barcelona’s most famous shopping street: La Rambla.
La Rambla is internationally recognized as a must-visit in Barcelona – and for good reason! This bustling pedestrian-only street is lined with trees, shops, and stands and is the perfect place to buy a souvenir that reminds you of Spain to take with you back home. While wandering through La Rambla, be sure to stop in at Mercado de La Boqueria, more commonly referred to simply as La Boqueria. If you’re looking for a midday pick-me-up, La Boqueria has everything you could possibly desire. With stands selling everything from barbeque to smoothies.
Last up on our Barcelona itinerary is the gorgeous beaches! Barcelona is most famous for its impressive city center, so many visitors forget to check out the beaches on the Spanish coast. Barcelona has approximately 5km of coastline on the Mediterranean, and every single beach is beautiful. Before you head home, be sure to slow down for a couple of hours and enjoy some sun time!
Book your stay at one of our wonderful Barcelona Best Western® Hotels & Resorts:
Best Western Premier Hotel Dante
Best Western Hotel Mediterraneo