What to See in Barcelona – A Traveler’s Guide

Barcelona was the first city we visited in Spain back in 2016, and after nearly five years, we finally returned. The moment Spain reopened its borders and we saw a direct flight from Serbia, we knew exactly where our next destination would be.

How to Get to Barcelona

We flew directly from Belgrade to Barcelona with Vueling Airlines, which operates seasonal direct flights from Serbia.

Pro Tip: To find the best flight deals to Barcelona, consider checking budget airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air. If you can't find a direct flight, flying to Madrid or another major European hub and taking a train or a short flight might be a cost-effective alternative.

Upon landing at Barcelona El Prat Airport around midnight, we managed to catch the Aerobus to the city center. The bus station is right outside the airport, and tickets (around €6 one way) can be purchased directly from the driver.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

For accommodation, I highly recommend staying near Gothic Quarter or Ciutadella Park. We stayed somewhere in between at the Ciutat de Barcelona Hotel, which had a perfect location—everything we wanted to visit was either within walking distance or easily accessible by metro.

Tip: If you're looking for a place to stay in Barcelona, check out options near major metro lines to make commuting easier.

Getting Around Barcelona

Public transportation in Barcelona is efficient, reliable, and affordable. We mostly walked, but for longer distances, we used the metro. There are several metro lines that cover different parts of the city, and you can choose from various ticket types:

• Single-ride tickets (€2.40)
• T-Casual (10 rides, €11.35) – the best option for tourists
• Unlimited travel passes for multiple days

Car Rental Tip: If you plan on renting a car, I recommend using Discover Cars to find the best deals from major rental companies.

Must-See Gaudí Masterpieces

Barcelona is practically a living museum of Antoni Gaudí’s architectural genius. If you love unique and artistic structures, here are the must-visit sites:

1. Sagrada Familia

No words can do Sagrada Familia justice—it’s simply breathtaking. As we got closer, its grandeur became even more apparent. Every time I look at it, I notice new intricate details I hadn’t seen before. Gaudí’s vision is otherworldly, and it's no surprise that over 3 million visitors come here every year, making it the most-visited unfinished landmark in the world.

Tip: Buying tickets online is cheaper and helps you avoid long lines. Book in advance to secure your spot.

2. Casa Batlló

One of Gaudí’s most famous works, Casa Batlló is an architectural masterpiece with a wavy facade, colorful mosaic tiles, and skull-shaped balconies. The roof even resembles a dragon’s back, a signature element in Gaudí’s work.

Entrance Fee: Check online for discounts and guided tours.

3. Casa Milà (La Pedrera)

Another iconic Gaudí building, Casa Milà (La Pedrera), is known for its undulating stone facade and twisted wrought-iron balconies. Fun fact: Star Wars fans speculate that Darth Vader’s helmet was inspired by the chimneys on its rooftop!

4. Park Güell

Located on El Carmel Hill, Park Güell offers panoramic views of Barcelona. Originally planned as a luxury housing project, it became one of the most stunning public parks in the world. The serpentine bench covered in colorful mosaic tiles is a perfect photo spot.

Tickets: Booking online is highly recommended to avoid crowds.

Other Must-Visit Places in Barcelona

Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter is Barcelona’s oldest neighborhood, filled with narrow medieval streets, hidden plazas, and charming cafes. It’s the perfect place to wander aimlessly, grab a coffee, and shop for unique souvenirs. Don’t miss:

• Barcelona Cathedral (La Seu) – A stunning Gothic-style cathedral.
• Plaça Reial – A lively square filled with bars and restaurants.
• El Beso Mural – A giant mosaic art piece symbolizing freedom and love.

La Rambla & Boqueria Market

No trip to Barcelona is complete without a stroll down La Rambla, the city's most famous boulevard. Though touristy, it’s worth visiting for:

• La Boqueria Market – The best place to grab fresh fruit, tapas, and juices.
• Street performers and artists.
• Palau Güell – One of Gaudí’s early masterpieces.

Montjuïc Hill & Magic Fountain

For breathtaking city views, Montjuïc Hill is a must. Highlights include:

• Magic Fountain Show – A spectacular mix of water, light, and music (free entry).
• National Art Museum of Catalonia – Stunning art collections and panoramic views.
• Montjuïc Castle – A historic fortress with amazing views of the coastline.

Barceloneta Beach

After days of exploring, Barceloneta Beach is the perfect place to unwind. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, or enjoy fresh seafood, this lively beachfront is ideal.

Tip: For great ice cream, check out Dino Gelato near the port.

Best Time to Visit Barcelona

The best time to visit Barcelona is during the spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

Summer is also great for beach lovers, but expect higher prices and large tourist crowds. Winter is quieter and cheaper, and while you might not be able to swim, the city’s Christmas decorations make it magical.

City That Never Gets Old

Barcelona is a city that never gets old—every visit brings something new to discover. Whether you're drawn to Gaudí’s masterpieces, the vibrant streets of the Gothic Quarter, or the relaxing beach vibes, Barcelona truly has something for everyone.

If you have any questions or need more tips for your trip, feel free to reach out. Happy travels!