A Weekend Guide to Barcelona
Travel Itinerary
Itinerary Contents
Itinerary Introduction
A weekend in Barcelona is a great choice, and here we will offer you the best itinerary so that you don’t miss a thing. Barcelona was the only Spanish city to appear in the top twenty most visited cities in the world in 2018 – the world before the pandemic, if you remember. This is so because it combines all the best qualities of charming Mediterranean cities with the cultural heritage and economic boost of northern capitals. In Barcelona you can enjoy a wonderful time on the beach, because you have four or five months of warm weather. Barcelona also has great nightlife - and you can also see very examples of very important architecture, and a varied cultural offering. Add to this combo delicious food, a gay-friendly environment and your bliss will be complete! Photo credit: Laura RevueltaUseful information about Barcelona
The history of Barcelona
Barcelona is part of Catalonia, an autonomous community of Spain that has fought for independence numerous times over the centuries. Most recently, in 2017, an independence referendum held in Catalonia was declared illegal by the Constitutional Court of Spain. Barcelona has been inhabited by many different groups over the centuries. The city was initially founded by the Romans, before being taken over by the Visigoths in the fifth century and the Arabs in the eighth century. Soon after, in 801, it was conquered by Louis the Pious, King of the Franks. In 985, Barcelona was sacked by the army of Muslim-Arab, Almanzor. In 1175, Barcelona was merged with nearby Aragon, and the region was placed under the Spanish monarchy in 1469. After the Spanish Civil War in 1936–1939, the use of the Catalan language was suppressed.The economy of Barcelona
Spain is the world’s fourteenth-largest economy by nominal GDP. Although Barcelona is one of the most-visited cities in Europe, its economy does not only turn on tourism, and it instead has a diversified economy that spans electrical engineering, publishing, wine and more.The language in Barcelona
There are two official languages in Barcelona: Spanish and Catalan. Catalan is the language spoken in offices and schools, but most Barcelona residents speak both languages. Don’t worry, as you won’t be snubbed for speaking Spanish. Some useful Catalan words are: “Bon dia” (Hello), “Merci” (Thank you), “De res” (You’re welcome), “Adéu” (Good bye) and “Si us plau” (Please).Best times to visit Barcelona
One of the first questions you may have when you prepare for your weekend in the Catalan capital is when to come. In fact, every season has its own charm - and also its limitations, but if you can choose, you'll have to consider that in summer (meaning July and August) you will be able to enjoy the beach - but you will also have to stand suffocating heat whenever you are sightseeing, and there will be people everywhere. For this reason, if you want to make use of the beach you can consider travelling in June or September, because the weather is usually warm, and the crowds are also reduced. In fact, September can be quite hot and variable, so it’s best to dress in layers, because early mornings can be quite fresh but at noon temperature rises considerably.Getting to Barcelona
There are three airports in and around Barcelona: El Prat de Llobregat Aeropuerto, Reus International Airport and Girona-Costa Brava Airport. You’re most likely to arrive at El Prat airport. From here, the most frequented route by visitors from abroad is to take the Aerobus airport shuttle bus for 35 minutes to the city centre. The cheapest option, however, is to hop on the train, which departs from Terminal 2, to the city centre, a journey of around half an hour. The most expensive but fastest option is to jump into a taxi, which will take around 20 minutes, depending on where you’re staying. Both of the airport’s terminals are also connected to the city’s metro system, a half-hour journey. Finally, Bus #46 will take you from the airport to town, and there are night buses too. If you’re travelling into Barcelona by train, you’ll probably arrive at Sants station. From here, there are bus and metro routes to whizz you to your final destination.Getting around in Barcelona
Barcelona’s public transport system works efficiently and is a cheap way to get around. Just remember to buy the appropriate card in order to save money in your journeys. For example, if you go as a family or small group or people, the best option is to buy a T-Familiar, where you have 8 journeys for 10 euros. On the other hand, you may prefer the individual card T-Casual, where you have 10 journeys for 11 euros. Another interesting way not to worry about transport fares if you think that you will get around a lot is the Hola Barcelona Travel Card, where you have unlimited travels for each person for 48 or 72 hours. You can buy it online for a 10% discount.Local cuisine in Barcelona
While in Barcelona, you’ll not want to miss the chance to try typical Spanish and Catalan food. Enjoy tapas (sharing dishes) at restaurants across the city, or go for pinchos, small pieces of bread with various tasty toppings – they’re a great snack paired with an afternoon drink. Also look out for crema catalana (similar to creme brulée), patatas bravas (fried potato with spicy tomato or aioli sauce) and bombas (fried potato balls filled with meat).Tipping in Barcelona
While it’s not standard to tip in Barcelona, it's common to round up your bill, or tip around 5–10% for good service.Local customs in Barcelona
If you come to Barcelona in Christmas time, you will see two strange (and even disturbing) objects displayed in street markets everywhere. One is a sort of log with a cap called “Cagatió” (literally, shitting log), and this is due to a Christmas Catalan tradition which says that this magical log will poo presents for the children on Christmas Eve. The other one, also related to pooing, is a ceramic figurine representing a defecating shepherd, which is placed on the Nativity scene during Christmas. These figures are often represented with the face of famous people, so you will see Dalí as a “caganer” (that’s the name of this figurine) or presidents, singers and many other celebrities who would probably dislike this honour. Crazy, right?Discount card for Barcelona
Various outlets offer discount cards in Barcelona. There’s the Barcelona City Pass, which offers “skip the queue” at the Sagrada Familia and Park Guëll, access to a hop-on, hop-off bus, and 10% off many other attractions. Alternatively, the Barcelona Card includes unlimited travel, free entry to numerous Barcelona museums, and “skip the queue” and discounts to other attractions.Beaches in Barcelona
One of the best things about Barcelona is its inviting mix of bustling city and sandy Mediterranean beaches. Barceloneta is the most popular city beach, but that means that it can be busy, particularly in summer. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas at Barceloneta, as well as at the Llevant, which is a little quieter than Barceloneta but still close to restaurants and bars. Platja de la Nova Icària is a good option for families. But with soft sand and amenities nearby, any of the beaches along the front are likely to suit.Barcelona - Travel Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Barcelona
La Pedrera
| Category | Price | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 24.00 EUR | |
| Students | 18.50 EUR | |
| Kids | 12.00 EUR | Under 12 |
| Seniors | 18.50 EUR |
Notes
On the opposite sidewalk of Passeig de Gràcia, Casa Batlló will also be offering its fantastic façade, as if both buildings were competing
El Nacional
Getting there
You will probably be tired from the visit to La Pedrera and the stroll along Passeig de Gràcia, so it’s the best moment to have a delicious menu of tapas at El Nacional.
Parc Güell
| Category | Price | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 10.00 - 24.00 EUR | |
| Kids | 7.00 EUR | Under 12 |
| Seniors | 7.00 EUR |
Getting there
To continue exploring Gaudí’s must-go creations, our next stop will be the magical Parc Güell. We will get there by metro, because we have the stop just next to La Pedrera and Casa Batlló (Passeig de Gràcia). In fifteen minutes, we will go down at Vallcarca and walk for 12 minutes to the entrance of Parc Güell
Magic fountain of Montjuic
Getting there
Where to go from here? Well, if you aren’t very tired, the best is to take the metro again and go to Espanya Square, another central part of the city. It will be twenty minutes and you will be facing the Font Màgica or magic fountain
Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
| Category | Price | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 12.00 EUR | |
| Group | 8.40 EUR | |
| Students | 8.40 EUR |
Getting there
After you have seen the fountain, you can enjoy art by visiting the Museo Nacional d’Art de Catalunya or MNAC.
Las Arenas shopping centre
Getting there
It’s time to grab a bite, and also to rest a little. Since you are in the area of Espanya Square or Plaça d’Espanya, you can go to Las Arenas Shopping Mall and there you will find a varied offer of restaurants with a wonderful view of the city.
Xixbar
Getting there
If you are not too tired and want to sample Barcelona’s nightlife, there are endless options, especially now that Covid-19 restrictions have been reduced and many clubs have been finally allowed to reopen. If you want to stay close to Espanya Square, however, and if you are a cocktail-lover, you have an interesting option very close. If you feel like walking you can go to Xixbar along Paral.lel street for around 15 minutes.
Dry Martini
Getting there
The best known cocktail bar in the city is Dry Martini. If taking a cab is a good option for you, you may want to enjoy its classy ambiance in Aribau street, and finish the day in style.
Day 2
Las Ramblas & More!
Las Ramblas
Notes
Spain is considered to be one of the safest countries where women can travel alone, and Barcelona is no exception to that. On the other hand, as in any other important capital in Europe and in the world, you have to be aware of pickpockets because, as a tourist, you are their main target. Observing some simple safety measures can be quite useful and can prevent you from having an unpleasant experience. When you are walking around touristy places such as Ramblas, Plaça Catalunya, or la Catedral, as well as on the beach, pay attention to your belongings at all times, don’t wear flashy, expensive watches or put the backpack with your money and smartphone where you can see the zipper and therefore react if someone tries to steal it. Pickpockets are super-fast and they just need some seconds to spoil your travel.
Bar Pinotxo
Getting there
There is a stop you have to do in the Rambles, especially if you are already hungry, and it’s the famous market of La Boqueria. The colourful display of fruit and vegetables is really a delight to see, and there you will find a famous place to eat: the Bar Pinotxo.
Cathedral of Barcelona
| Category | Price | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 12.00 - 15.00 EUR |
Getting there
The itinerary continues down the Rambles, with a stop at the Cathedral of Barcelona. It’s located on the left side of the Rambles, and you can go there waking along Portaferrissa street for 7 minutes more or less.
Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar
| Category | Price | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 10.00 EUR | |
| Students | 8.00 EUR | |
| Kids | 0.00 EUR | Under 8 |
| Seniors | 8.00 EUR |
Getting there
From one Cathedral to another, because the Catedral del Mar (or "Cathedral of the Sea") is also at a seven-minute walk along Argenteria street, and you will certainly enjoy the lovely little square next to the church.
Travel time
0 hours 7 minutesEl rey de la gamba
Notes
The Barceloneta is not only the name of the beach but also of the neighbourhood, otherwise known as La Ribera. It’s the fishermen district of the city, one of the oldest and most picturesque of all. The street Passeig Joan de Borbó will take you directly to the beach, where you will find the iconic Hotel Vela, which looks like a big boat sail. If it’s summer and you are carrying your swimming equipment with you, it’s the right time to lie down on the Barceloneta beach, get suntanned and have a swim. Alternatively, all the chiringuitos or beach bars along the promenade are a perfect place to chill while looking at the Mediterranean Sea.
Getting there
It’s time to go back to the Rambles and go down to the beach, of course. It’s a twenty-minute walk but, if you are tired, or if you want to go faster, you can take the metro at the stop called Jaume I and get down at the Barceloneta stop. By this time of day, you will probably be starving. Don’t worry, your solution is right there in the same street Joan de Borbó which you took to come to the beach. You will find many restaurants there, offering tourists their menus, and one of them is called El Rey de la Gamba
Mariposa negra
Getting there
However, if you are full of energy and still want to take profit of the night, you can walk for around 15 minutes along Passeig Joan de Borbó, reach Pla de Palau and then turn to Plaça de les Olles, where you will find a cocktail bar called La mariposa Negra
About the author
I love languages and writing about the places I love - so that visitors can enjoy them as much as I do. I have been a freelance translator and content writer for some years now, and I hope to have helped many travellers with my tips!
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