Get ready to fall in love with Spain's vibrant cultural capital. If your idea of a good time is drinking sangria, strolling along a sandy beach front and dining at tapas bars, Barcelona is the place for you! With no shortage of great hotels and an even better selection of places to eat and drink – you’re guaranteed a good time.
STAY
For shorter trips to Barcelona, it is best to stay in a central location. The Gothic Quarter is the beautiful, historical center of the city, packed with cute shops, cafes and gothic style architecture at every turn. As well as being close to the beach, the Gothic Quarter is also home to many fascinating cultural sites which are worth a visit, such as the Barcelona History Museum and the Cathedral of Barcelona.
With a variety of accommodation on offer, from boutique apartments to luxury hotels, the Gothic Quarter is the perfect part of the city to base yourself in. For a five-star stay, try Ohla Barcelona. The view from the rooftop pool and terrace is sure not to disappoint.
EAT
For a casual bite to eat head to the Boqueria Markets in the Gothic Quarter. Perfect for a lunchtime Paella, a platter of fresh seafood or a taste of the local cured meats and cheeses, the market is packed to the brim with fresh, Spanish delicacies. Afterwards, roam down the beautiful, tree lined La Rambla, all the way to the waterfront for an afternoon jug of Sangria by the sea.
At night, head to the fashionable suburb of El Born to escape the tourists and discover the variety of trendy restaurants on offer. With modern cuisines from around the world, as well as long-running Spanish restaurants and classic tapas bars, the historic neighborhood of El Born is home to some of the best eateries in the city.
Meander down the winding, medieval streets and you are certain to find many hidden gems, complete with cozy interiors and tables spilling out onto the street. For traditional Catalonian dishes, 7 Portes is a local favorite, offering excellent seafood and a unique, historical interior.
DRINK
For a night out in Barcelona or even just a pre-dinner cocktail, the hip bars of El Raval are a must. With live music and dancing to be found, a barhop through the vibrant streets of this eclectic neighborhood is the perfect way to spend a night out on your long weekend away.
You'll get a look at one of the more authentic areas of the city, frequented mostly by locals. Start by checking out the London Bar, a rustic, historical pub which once served Dalí, Picasso and Hemingway. After that you can head to Cassette Bar, just down the street, for a cocktail or two and a more modern setting.
MUST SEE
Known as Spain's cultural capital for a reason, Barcelona has no shortage of art galleries, museums, architectural sites and impressive views to take in. Make the most of your weekend away and cross some of these iconic, must-see locations off of your bucket list.
Start by visiting one of the most beautiful and recognizable buildings in the city. Designed by famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia is a stunning, modernist cathedral in the middle of Barcelona. It is still under construction, but once complete the Sagrada Familia will be the tallest Christian church in the world. On a weekend trip to Barcelona, this iconic site should not be missed.
With a prime location on the east coast of the country, Barcelona is not only one of the most exciting cities in Spain but also boasts some beautiful beaches and coastline. Bogatell Beach is one of the less crowded beaches in the city and is a perfect spot for an afternoon picnic and swim.
Bring your book or plug in to your favorite podcast while you soak up some delightful Spanish sunshine. With clear water and clean sand, yet only a short half hour walk from the Gothic Quarter, Bogatell beach offers the best of both worlds.
Finally, head to the Catalan Museum of National Art and watch the sunset from the top of the hill. Inside the gallery you will find an extensive collection made up of Catalan art, Renaissance and Baroque pieces, as well as modern works.
With grand fountains, columns and turrets outside, the front steps of the gallery are also a perfect spot to watch the sun go down over the city at the end of the day. Set amongst beautiful greenery in the center of the city, this stunning gallery is a work of art in its own right.
Now that you've got an idea of what to do in Barcelona for 3 days, you'll be living like a local in no time. Follow this guide to the city and you'll enjoy your weekend knowing that you've spent your time in the best way possible. Now hello to the best weekend of your life.