Your Perfect Barcelona Getaway: A Three-Day Guide to Must-Sees and Insider Spots

Curated By
Jessica Sifrig
Curator’s statement
Barcelona is a city full of life, where vibrant culture, rich history and modern energy come together. Whether you're exploring stunning Gothic architecture, enjoying delicious tapas or experiencing the buzzing nightlife at some of the best cocktail bars in the world, every moment here is unforgettable. On top of all that, Barcelona is incredibly easy to get to, with a major international airport that makes it the perfect starting point for exploring the rest of Spain. In this three-day guide, I’m sharing my favorite spots, insider tips and local secrets to help you fall in love with Barcelona.
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Day 1: La Boqueria Market, La Rambla, Cathedral & Liceu Opera House

Visit La Boqueria Market
Most travelers will arrive in Barcelona in the morning, which can make for a pretty exhausting day. It’s best to take it easy on the first day and really soak in some of the city's culture. That being said, nothing helps jet lag like food! Start your day at La Boqueria Market. Stroll through the colorful stalls and try the local flavors. I highly recommend getting jamón ibérico any chance you get.Explore the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla
The Gothic Quarter and La Rambla are must-visit areas in Barcelona, offering a mix of history, culture, vibrant street life and some excellent people watching.Stroll along the medieval streets and pop into shops, restaurants and bars. By now, you’re probably thirsty, so grab a refreshing sangria!
Revel in the beauty of the Barcelona Cathedral.
Snap some photos of the Pont del Bisbe, an iconic Gothic-style bridge.
Experience the grandeur of the Liceu Opera House — maybe even stop in to see a show!
Tapas at Caňete
Enjoy a fantastic evening at Caňete, a popular spot for authentic Spanish tapas paired with exceptional wines. This restaurant is busy for a reason, so reservations are recommended.
Day 2: La Sagrada Famila & Park Güell

La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell
Start the day with a private tour of La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. These landmarks are often grouped together on tours due to their proximity. I highly recommend a guided tour to ensure you don’t miss any of the history or fun facts.Lunch at Sagrada’s Tapas
After your tour, you'll be ready for lunch. For a convenient, quick meal, walk over to Sagrada’s Tapas and enjoy tapas at one of their outdoor tables.
Dinner and drinks
Enjoy a delightful dinner at Rao, a renowned restaurant in Barcelona situated on one of the city’s most iconic streets. After your meal, try a drink at their sister bar, Numero Tres, located next door. Reservations are required to ensure you snag a table at both.
Day 3: Montserrat & cocktails

Take a scenic escape to Montserrat
Take a break from the city and head to Montserrat for a day of natural beauty and relaxation. On a guided tour, spend the morning exploring the Montserrat Monastery and its breathtaking mountain views. From there, enjoy a leisurely afternoon sipping wine at a charming vineyard. This day offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.Sip the world’s best cocktails
Spend your last evening enjoying some of the world’s top cocktail bars. From the innovative cocktails at Sips, to the creative experiments at Dr. Stravinsky, to the over-the-top presentations at Paradiso, there's a drink for everyone in Barcelona.
Need to know
Don't want to stop your trip in Barcelona? Here are some other cities you could add to your itinerary:
Take a quick flight for a beach weekend in Mallorca or Menorca.
Rent a car and explore the La Rioja wine region.
Use the high-speed train to explore the capital city of Madrid.
Hop on another quick flight to your culinary paradise in San Sebastián.

Travel Advisor
Jessica Sifrig

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Barcelona page.