Things to Do in Barcelona

With broad boulevards, big skies and intriguing architecture competing for your eye at every turn, Barcelona is a city unlike any other. It’s one of those European cities that begs you to stay longer with its infinitely walkable streets, plethora of local institutions and endless hidden secrets.

You can amble through the centuries with a stroll from the narrow medieval alleyways of the Gothic Quarter to the modern heart of La Rambla a dozen times and it will never lose its charm. Along this wide, tree-lined promenade, the full gamut of Catalonian culture is on display, from whimsical Gaudí homes and rustic family-owned tapas bars to street performers and bustling La Boqueria market. There’s simply never a shortage of things to do in Barcelona, an effortlessly cool and quirky city that we never get tired of exploring.

Eat Like a Barcelonian

Tapas 24 | Calle Diputació, 269
One of the most prominent figures in the local culinary scene, Michelin-starred Chef Carles Abellan serves up classic tapas here and serves them like no one else in the city. Just know that reservations are not accepted, so it’s best to avoid peak hours. As far as things to do in Barcelona, culinary adventures are always a sure bet due to the city’s world-class food scene.

Disfrutar | Carrer de Villarroel, 163
The brainchild of three head chefs from world-renowned El Bulli, 2-Michelin-starred Disfrutar offers several exquisitely executed tasting menus, impeccable service and an intriguingly designed interior. Disfrutar translates as “enjoy” in Spanish and that you most certainly will.

Shop Local Designers & Markets

Passeig de Gràcia
The boutiques of international fashion icons line Barcelona’s wide promenade of Passeig de Gràcia, but you’ll also want to explore the side streets where young local designers offer their one-of-a-kind creations, perfect for gifts.

Mercat de Santa Caterina | Avinguda de Francesc Cambó, 16
Barcelona’s La Boqueria market is much more well-known, but to shop like a local, head to Santa Caterina market. Its undulating kaleidoscopic roof will draw you there, but the endless parade of produce, pastries and tapas will keep you there.

Explore Beyond the City

Monastery of Montserrat
Travel from sea-level Barcelona into craggy peaks rising above the clouds, where this sacred monastery has unfathomably been built into the mountaintop. As one of Spain’s most important pilgrimage spots, thousands travel here every year to touch the medieval statue of La Moreneta, the patron saint of Catalonia.

Inspired? If you’re not already planning to visit this captivating city in 2020, explore one of these cruises to Barcelona and other sought-after Mediterranean destinations.

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