Barcelona’s top touristy things to do

Barcelona is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and a lively atmosphere and there is plenty to do. And yes, the places on this list may get busy during the peak year and there will be many other activities to do in Barcelona, but the sites below are popular for a reason and will be well worth a visit.

Sagrada Família

British people are used to waiting a long time for things to be built – HS2 is running years behind schedule, despite being cut back, and Heathrow has been due a third runway for about 20 years. But perhaps we can put this all into perspective when visiting the Sagrada Família. This iconic basilica designed by architect Antoni Gaudí is an architectural marvel and cuts an imposing silhouette across the city skyline. But building it appears to be a bit of a challenge. With the foundations being laid in 1882 and cranes still periodically popping up to add more bits, this is one of the longest ongoing construction projects in the world. Still, it seems moistly complete, at least to this contributor, and its an awe-inspiring site. Well worth visiting, even if you decide to just walk arounf it on the outside.

 

La Rambla

This famous tree-lined street is well known for its shops, street performers, and lively atmosphere. Cutting through the heart of central Barcelona, the Spanish poet Federico García Lorca once said that La Rambla was “the only street in the world which I wish would never end.” Many worthwhile things to see are connected by this street, such as the Palace of the Virreina, the Liceu Opera House and the diverse La Boqueria market.

Gothic Quarter

Although the name may suggest it, the residents in Barcelona don’t all love Dracula and listen to The Cure. But it is still fun to wander through the narrow medieval streets, visit the Barcelona Cathedral, and discover charming squares filled with cafes and shops in what is the oldest part of this great city.

Picasso Museum

Its hard to get your head around how prolific Picasso was until you visit the museum bearing his name in Barcelona. With a total of 4251 of his works, this huge volume of works has required the museum to encroach on five adjoining medieval palaces on Montcada Street in the La Ribera neighborhood. Explore the extensive collection of Picasso’s works, showcasing the artist’s early years and evolution.