Choose from 116 Fun Things to Do in Barcelona
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Tibidabo Mountain
The highest mountain in the Collserola range surrounding Barcelona, Tibidabo Mountain offers one of the city’s most magnificent view points. There are several places to take in the 360-degree vistas, including the neo-Gothic Sagrat Cor Cathedral, Torre de Collserola TV tower, and the popular Parque de Atracciones amusement park.
The Basics
Featured in the film Vicky Cristina Barcelona, Tibidabo is popular among couples and families who come to soak up its views and amusements. The mountain itself is free to visit, but the amusement park and TV tower observation deck charge separate admission fees. Families traveling with children can combine a visit to Tibidabo and its theme park with a tour of the labyrinth at Parque del Laberinto de Horta.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tibidabo Mountain is a must-visit for couples and families.
- Book your tickets in advance to skip the line at the amusement park.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat; some areas on the mountain lack adequate shade.
- Public transportation to Tibidabo, as well as many of the amusement park attractions, is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
There are a few ways to get up the hill to the top of Tibidabo, but the most popular (and fun) is to ride the funicular railway from Plaça Dr. Andreu to the top. The hop-on hop-off tourist bus also stops at the top of the mountain.
When to Get There
Tibidabo is always accessible, and the amusement park and other attractions are open during the daytime, year-round. In the summer months, plan to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest hours. Tibidabo Mountain is an excellent spot to watch the sunset.
Automata Museum
One of the quirkier attractions on Tibidabo Mountain is the Automata Museum: a collection of some 40 vending machines and animatronic fortune tellers from the 19th and 20th centuries. The oldest, the Pallasso Mandolinista, dates back to 1880. The museum is located in the Panoramic Area of the amusement park.
Address: Placa del Tibidabo, Barcelona, Sarria, Sant Gervasi & Tibidabo 08035, Spain
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Antoni Tapies Museum (Fundacio Antoni Tapies)
Get closer to Barcelona's vibrant art scene by perusing the masterpieces of one its most famous artists, Antoni Tapies. Born in Barcelona, Tapies specialized in contemporary art that was dominated by social themes. His work, which was influenced by the likes of fellow Catalan artist Joan Miro, is imaginative and abstract, employing elements beyond just paint and canvas but also rags, paper and other scraps.
Founded by Tapies himself, the foundation serves to promote and provide education around contemporary art. While there, you can explore a collection of his creations, an impressive library, as well as revolving exhibitions by other artists. The building itself is a work of art too: Constructed in the late 1800s, it was considered a pioneer of Modernisme architecture. Meanwhile, you won't be able to miss the cloud-and-chair sculpture that tops it, which is meant to represent meditative attitude and aesthetic contemplation.
Practical Info
The museum is located just steps away from the Passeig de Gràcia and other popular Barcelona sights such as La Pedrera and Casa Batllo. You can gain skip-the-line entrance with a Barcelona Museum Pass. Note that the museum closes on Mondays.
Address: Carrer d'Aragó, 255, Barcelona, Catalonia 08007, Spain
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Closed Mondays.
Admission: General: €7; reduced: €5.60
From $ 35
Torre de Bellesguard
Often referred to as Casa Figueres, Torre de Bellesguard is undeservedly the least known of a number of spectacular buildings in Barcelona designed by ingenious modernist architect Antoni Gaudí. It was completed in 1909 on the site of a former royal palace high above Barcelona in the Serra de Collserola and the eccentric construction is of stone and slate. Designed to resemble a fortified medieval castle, Bellesguard has gabled windows peering out at odd angles, narrow walkways, crenellated walls and a tower topped with yellow and red mosaics representing the Catalan flag. Its interior is awash with a striking mixture of Gothic design and Art Nouveau detailing, from vaulted halls to stairwells smothered with ornamental tiles and lit by exquisite stained glass. An observation deck on the upper floor leads to breathtaking views over the rooftops of Barcelona.
During construction of the new house, Gaudí rerouted an old path and built a viaduct in the grounds that became known as the Arcades de Bellesguard; his collaborator Domènec Sugrañes i Gras completed the gardens, the porter’s lodge and main steps up to the house, adding the fish mosaics that adorn the main entrance.
Practical Info
Carrer de Bellesguard 16, Sant Gervasi. Open Tue–Sun 10am–3pm. Admission adults €9, seniors & children under 18 €7.20, under age eight free. Bus No 58 from Placa Catalunya to Tibidabo. The interior of the Torre de Bellesguard is not navigable by wheelchair.
Address: Carrer de Bellesguard 16, Sant Gervasi, Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Open Tue–Sun 10am–3pm
Admission: Adults: €9
From $ 15
Santa Caterina Market
Santa Caterina was the first covered market in the city of Barcelona. Since being completely renovated in 2005 with a modern design and colorful, curved rooftop, it has become a celebrated sight in Barcelona. Yet, it stays true to its traditional Catalan market roots. Over 325,000 ceramic pieces were used by architects Benedetta Tagliabue and Enric Miralles to create the kaleidoscope roof, with more than fifty different shades of colors representing the fruits and vegetables sold within. The mosaics recall the Modernista style of architecture Gaudi made famous across the city.
The market sells every type of quality produce and meat imaginable, including fresh pastries and breads. It’s a great place to pick up or simply view the colorful fruit, vegetable and flower stands, along with local meats and fish. Once you’re done browsing the stalls, check out the remains of the 15th century Espai Santa Caterina, the Gothic church the market was built on top of.
Practical Info
The Santa Caterina Market can be found in Barcelona’s La Ribera district, not far from the Picasso Museum. It is open daily from 7:30 am to 2 pm, with extended evening hours on Thursday and Friday. The closest metro stop is Jaume I.
Address: Av. de Francesc Cambó, 16, Barcelona 08003, Spain
From $ 17
Salt Mountain Cultural Park
Salt Mountain is one of the largest and most important salt mines in the world. Visitors can tour the 280-foot-deep mine to see its beautiful formations, like jagged stalactites, stalagmites, and deposits of potassium, magnesium, and sodium. Streaks of gray and reddish-brown salts add to the mountain cave’s natural beauty.
The Basics
Exploring this natural wonder brings insight into the history and geography of this part of Europe. After mining operations shut down in the 1990s, the mine was opened to visitors. Travelers don hard hats and enter the old mine shafts before visiting a museum filled with equipment and machinery once used to harvest salt and minerals. Guided day trips to Salt Mountain often include time to explore medieval Cardona with its imposing castle.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Salt Mountain Cultural Park is a fun day trip for foodies, families, and those interested in geology.
- Tours of the salt mine and its processing facilities last about an hour.
- Tour sizes are limited, so it’s a good idea to book ahead of time.
- Wear comfortable shoes and a light jacket, as temperatures inside the mine can be cool.
- The cultural park offers tours in Spanish and Catalan, as well as an audio guide in English and French.
- The Salt Mountain tour is not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Salt Mountain is located in Cardona, about 90 minutes from Barcelona. The easiest way to get there is to drive or join a guided tour. You can also take a Renfe regional train from Barcelona-Sants to Manresa, and then hire a taxi from there.
When to Get There
Salt Mountain Cultural Park is open Tuesday to Sunday year-round. Cardona’s temperate climate means it’s clear, dry, and relatively mild throughout the year. The salt mines make an excellent escape from the Barcelona heat during the summer months.
Things to Do in Cardona
The medieval town of Cardona has plenty to do and see besides Salt Mountain. The historic town center is home to the impressive Cardona Castle, as well as the Lombard Romanesque-style Collegiate Church of Sant Vicenç. Those who want to learn more about the area’s relationship to salt should visit the Josep Arnau Salt Museum, Art Sal workshop, or the Taller Artesà de Sal gallery.
Address: Cardona, Spain
Admission: Varies
From $ 110
Santa Maria del Pi Basilica
Standing tall in the Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter) of Barcelona, the Santa Maria del Pi is a 14th century church in the Placa del Pi. Its Gothic architecture, including the many gargoyles and the large Gothic arch that frames its entrance, remain well intact. Its octagonal bell tower rises 54 meters high, creating a memorable mark of the history of this area of the city. Its tolling bell can be heard throughout the day while walking around the Gothic Quarter.
Both the church, the square, and the nearby street Carrer del Pi are named for a tall pine tree that once stood in the square. Though it was partially destroyed in a fire in 1936, it was fully restored and reopened in 1940. The basilica has high vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows and lattice work. Its enormous rose window placed at the entrance is of particular note; it is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
Both the church, the square, and the nearby street Carrer del Pi are named for a tall pine tree that once stood in the square. Though it was partially destroyed in a fire in 1936, it was fully restored and reopened in 1940. The basilica has high vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows and lattice work. Its enormous rose window placed at the entrance is of particular note; it is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
Practical Info
The basilica is situated in the Placa del Pi, just a few minutes’ walk from the main street of Las Ramblas in the Barri Gotic. The nearest metro stop is Liceu.
Address: Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Daily 9:30AM-1PM, 5PM-8:30PM
From $ 6
St. Benet Monastery (Món Sant Ben)
Set amid the lush forests and rolling vineyards of the Catalonian countryside, this former Benedictine monastery is among the region’s most impressively preserved medieval sites. The painstakingly restored complex is much more than a historic site; it’s a thriving cultural heritage center combining gastronomy, art, and leisure.
The Basics
St. Benet Monastery (Món Sant Ben), originally founded in AD 960, was fully restored in 2007. Since then it has become a popular countryside day trip destination. On a guided tour of the monastery grounds, visitors tour the cloister, wine cellar, church, and gardens, and learn about the lives of the Benedictine monks. The center also offers cooking workshops and guided tastings, and there’s a store selling organic produce that is grown on-site.
Things to Know Before You Go
- St. Benet Monastery is a must-visit for foodies, spiritual travelers, and those looking for an escape from Barcelona.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Free Wi-Fi is available.
- Guided tours of the monastery typically last about one hour.
How to Get There
The monastery is located 37 miles (60 kilometers) northwest of Barcelona. If you’re not on a guided tour, the easiest way to get to St. Benet Monastery is by car; take the C-16 from Barcelona to the N-141. If you don’t have a car, take the R4 train from Barcelona-Sants to Manresa, and then catch a taxi the rest of the way.
When to Get There
The monastery is open for tours Tuesday to Sunday year-round, as well as on public holidays. The schedule of workshops is always changing, so it’s a good idea to check the monastery’s calendar ahead of your visit.
Restaurants at St. Benet Monastery
The historic monastery grounds are home to three different restaurants. La Fonda celebrates modern Catalonian cuisine through its daily tasting menu, accompanied by wines from the Bages region. The Michelin star-rated L’Ó showcases bold recipes and innovative techniques, while Món, the newest of the three, serves shareable tapas with indoor and outdoor seating.
Address: Camí Sant Benet, Sant Fruitós de Bages, Barcelona 08272, Spain
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
Tibidabo Amusement Park
The amusement park concept is taken to a new level, very literally, at Tibidabo Amusement Park. That’s because it is situated at Barcelona’s highest point, on Mt. Tibidabo. From there, you can ogle nearly 360-degree views as you soak up the charm and adventure that the vintage amusement park has to offer.
Vintage, indeed, as the mountaintop destination was opened back in 1889, and to this day still features some of its older, classic rides alongside more modern, adrenalin-driving attractions. Meanwhile, part of the thrill of this whole experience is that of getting there, which includes the Tramvia Blau, a old-fashioned tram that opened in 1901. While up top, also take the chance to visit the Temple de Sagrat Cor, a Neo-Gothic church located at the summit.
Practical Info
The Tramvia Blau can be reached by the L7 train from Plaça de Catalunya (stop: Plaza de John Kennedy) or the hop-on hop-off bus tour. The Funicular de Tibidabo must then be taken the remainder of the way up. Alternatively, visitors can take the Tibibus, which travels from Plaça de Catalunya to the park. You can either buy an all-access pass, or pay for some of the rides individually. Note that the park closes during several weeks in winter, and has varying hours all year round, so consult the schedule in advance.
Address: Plaza del Tibidabo, 3-4, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain 08035, Spain
Hours: The park closes during several weeks in winter, and has varying hours all year round, so consult the schedule in advance.
Admission: General: €28.50; Reduced: €10.30 and under
From $ 7
Plaça Sant Felip Neri
It might seem next to impossible to find a quiet getaway in the big Barcelona city, but Plaça Sant Felip Neri offers you just the perfect escape from all the hustle and bustle. This seemingly hidden square, with its trickling fountain and shade-offering trees, is located in Barcelona’s Gothic quarter and is enclosed by old-world buildings.
It’s more than just a tranquil respite, though, but also an important, albeit tragic part of Barcelona history. Indeed, this is where you’ll find the square’s namesake church, which was bombed during the Spanish Civil War in 1938, killing many people, most of whom were children. The church’s heavily bomb-pocked walls serve as a still-visible reminder of this sad event. Come here to contemplate the square’s somber past while you savor a moment of quiet and calm.
Practical Info
The almost completely wall-surrounded space is accessed via the tiny Carrer de Sant Felip Neri and the arched entrance of Carrer de Montjuic del Bisbe. Given that the square can be hard to find, and its proximity to other Gothic quarter destinations, you may wish to visit it and the neighborhood on a guided tour.
Address: Plaça Sant Felip Neri, Barcelona, Catalonia 08002, Spain
From $ 41
Spanish Village (Poble Espanyol)
One of the most famous points of interest on Montjuïc is the Poble Espanyol. The so-called "Spanish Village" was built for the 1929 International Exhibition to show off models of the architecture specific to each region in Spain.
Visitors ambling through the mixed-and-matched village will find themselves one minute walking down a street characteristic of the Basque region, and the next, standing before a home reminiscent of the Andalucian style. Also included are copies of Galician and Castilian architecture and, of course, Catalan dwellings.
Filling these buildings are various craft shops left over from the International Exhibition that are still churning out keepsake crafts. There are also several bars, cafes and shops throughout to quench every thirst, appetite and need for a souvenir.
See everything from glass blowing to weaving in the craft shops of Poble Espanyol. Artisans working in every medium imaginable are drawn to this space as somewhere not only to showcase their art but to create it as well. There are a series of exhibition spaces throughout the village that host temporary exhibits, in addition to the Fran Daurel Foundation, which displays a permanent collection of over 300 works by international artists.
Visitors ambling through the mixed-and-matched village will find themselves one minute walking down a street characteristic of the Basque region, and the next, standing before a home reminiscent of the Andalucian style. Also included are copies of Galician and Castilian architecture and, of course, Catalan dwellings.
Filling these buildings are various craft shops left over from the International Exhibition that are still churning out keepsake crafts. There are also several bars, cafes and shops throughout to quench every thirst, appetite and need for a souvenir.
See everything from glass blowing to weaving in the craft shops of Poble Espanyol. Artisans working in every medium imaginable are drawn to this space as somewhere not only to showcase their art but to create it as well. There are a series of exhibition spaces throughout the village that host temporary exhibits, in addition to the Fran Daurel Foundation, which displays a permanent collection of over 300 works by international artists.
Address: Av. de Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13, Barcelona 08038, Spain
Hours: Open daily 9am - late
Admission: Adults: € 8.90, Children (4-12yrs): € 5.60
From $ 15
St. Mary of the Sea Cathedral
St. Mary of the Sea Cathedral (Santa Maria del Mar) stands at the end of Passeig del Born as one of Barcelona’s most magnificent Catalan Gothic churches. Built in the 14th century, the cathedral is characterized by its architectural elegance and harmony. A highlight is the 15th-century stained-glass rose window.
The Basics
St. Mary of the Sea Cathedral is a prominent landmark in La Ribera and a regular stop on walking tours of this historic neighborhood. To appreciate some of the city’s finest art and architecture, combine a cathedral tour with a guided visit to the Picasso Museum, which is a short walk from the cathedral. Fans of Ildefonso Falcones’ novel The Cathedral of the Sea can tour locations featured in the book with a local guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The cathedral is a must-visit for architecture buffs and spiritual travelers.
- Remember to dress respectfully, with clothing covering shoulders and knees.
- The ground floor areas of the cathedral are wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
The cathedral is located in El Born, Barcelona’s medieval district, within easy walking distance of just about anywhere in the Old City. To get there by public transportation, take the Barcelona Metro Line 4 to either the Jaume I or Barceloneta station.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open for cultural visits every afternoon. It’s also possible to duck in quietly during mass to soak up the atmosphere. Mass is held each evening, Sunday morning, and holidays. Try to time your visit to coincide with a choral performance to get a true feel for the acoustics.
FC Barcelona Logo
Football (soccer) fans visiting the cathedral should keep an eye out for a hidden tribute to the city’s beloved team. One of the stained-glass windows in the cathedral depicts the FC Barcelona crest. During the 1960s, the team helped finance the renovation of the window, and their crest was added as a sign of gratitude.
Address: Placa Santa Maria 1, La Ribera, Barcelona, Ciutat Vella 08003, Spain
From $ 6
Sant Sadurni d'Anoia
The municipality of Sant Sadurni d'Anoia is the center of production for cava, Spain’s version of Champagne. The area is home to some 100 wineries specializing in the production and export of the sparkling wine, and travelers can visit vineyards, tour production facilities, and taste some of Spain’s best cavas at their source.
The Basics
Sant Sadurni d’Anoia is one of the most popular wine-tasting destinations from Barcelona. Many of the area wineries have tasting rooms in the town center, and others offer tours of their vineyards and production facilities. Guided day trips to the mountaintop monastery of Montserrat include an afternoon of cava tasting. It’s also possible to spend an entire day hopping from one tasting room to the next, sampling wines and olive oils.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sant Sadurni d’Anoia is a must-visit for wine lovers and foodies.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for time spent walking through town or in the vineyards.
- Wine tasting day trips typically last five to eight hours, or longer if a stop at Montserrat is included.
- Most tours of the area include hotel pickup and drop-off in Barcelona.
How to Get There
The town of Sant Sadurni d’Anoia is located 31 miles (50 kilometers) west of Barcelona and is most easily reached by car via the A-7 highway. If you don’t have a car, take the R4 rail line that connects Barcelona to Manresa.
When to Get There
There isn’t a bad time to visit Sant Sadurni d’Anoia, as the weather tends to be dry throughout the year. Temperatures and humidity can be high in the summer months, however, making spring and autumn more appealing seasons. Each winery maintains its own hours, so check before your visit.
Festivals in Sant Sadurni
This small town packs a big punch when it comes to festivals. For wine lovers, the best time to visit is during the annual Cava Week in mid-October. Gastronomic May showcases the region’s culinary products and cuisine, while each of the town’s eight neighborhoods hosts traditional feasts throughout the summer. The festival celebrating the town’s patron saint takes place at the end of November.
Address: Sant Sadurni d'Anoia, Spain
From $ 68
Teatre Poliorama
Opened in 1906 as a part of the Royal Academy of Arts and Science of Barcelona, the Teatre Poliorama continues to be a center of Catalan culture and arts. With around 700 seats, the formerly cinematic theater is a smaller, more intimate venue. Designed by architect Josep Domènech i Estapà, it first opened in 1894. Historically the theater played films, with the introduction of mostly Catalan stage productions after its renovation in 1903.
Many important Catalan performances premiered here until the Spanish Civil War. During the war the building was seized and became the scene of armed battles recounted in Hemingway’s ‘Homage to Catalonia.’ Today the theater holds regular performances of both opera and flamenco, often with live music. There are also musicals and comedy shows shown on occasion. Fun fact: the clock located at its entrance is considered to be the official time of Barcelona to which everyone sets their watch to. It was the first electrical clock in the city.
Practical Info
The Teatre Poliorama is located on Las Ramblas in the heart of Barcelona at Rambla Dels Estudis 115. The nearest metro station is Catalunya.
Address: Rambla dels Estudis, 115, Barcelona 08002, Spain
Admission: Check for show pricing
From $ 40
Port de Barcelona
Down the centuries the Port de Barcelona has played a strategic role in the development of the city it serves; its geographical location on the Mediterranean Sea made it an important trading port that brought great wealth into Catalonia. Today it is a major stopover on cruising itineraries as well as the base for ferry services to the Balearic Islands and Mediterranean ports such as Rome, Genoa and Algiers; it is currently being extended in a development that will see it double in size and capacity.
Port Vell is adjacent to the ferry port, an historic area of fishing fleets and marinas into which new life was breathed in 1995; it is Barcelona’s number-one spot for destination shopping and dining, strolling along the seafront promenades and taking boat trips out onto the Med. It’s also the place to learn about Catalan history in the sprawling 19th-century Palau de Mar and travel by cable-car high above Barcelona to the museums and Olympic stadium at Montjuïc; to enjoy wrap-around movies at the IMAX; and to catch the sharks and rays in Europe’s largest aquarium.
Practical Info
Plaça Portal de la Pau, 6.
Address: Plaça Portal de la Pau, 6, Barcelona, Spain
From $ 78
Sant Pau Recinte Modernista
Don’t let your inevitable new fascination with Barcelona’s Modernism architecture stop at La Sagrada Familia: Just a short walk away and you can explore another architectural masterpiece, Sant Pau Recinte Modernista. The complex of buildings served as a hospital until 2009, and is now home to a knowledge center consisting of various institutions, and loads of curious corners for outside visitors to discover.
The open-to-the-public space is an underrated wonderland of art nouveau architecture, which features colorful mosaic detailing, fanciful facades, and stroll-worthy gardens. Explore the property and its relatively crowd-free pavilions on a self-guided tour, or opt for one of the guided visits, which take place at least once a day in various languages. Meanwhile, if you like what you see, you won’t want to miss out on other Modernism buildings around town such as La Pedrera, Casa Batllo, and Casa Amatller - among many more.
Practical Info
Guided visits occur at least once a day in a variety of languages. English tours take place at noon and 1 p.m.; consult the website for the times of other languages. If you’re keen to explore more of the city’s architectural history, consider joining a Barcelona Modernism guided tour.
Address: C. Sant Antoni Maria Claret, 167, Barcelona 08025, Spain
Hours: Hours vary
Admission: Self-guided visit: €10; guided visit: €16
From $ 16
Port Olímpic
Facing the Olympic Village of the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, the Port Olimpic was built as a part of the redevelopment of the area in preparation for the event. With its proximity to the beach area and its iconic art and sculpture, it has become one of the most popular leisure areas in the city.
Surrounded on both sides by skyscrapers such as the prominent Torre Mapfre and the Hotel Arts, the port is a marina for over 700 boats. The view of the many yachts on the water is something to see, as is the masterful copper ‘Peix’ or fish sculpture by architect Frank Gehry. This is also the jumping off point for many sailing trips on the Mediterranean Sea.
There are dozens of dining and shopping options along the area, as well as that famous Barcelona nightlife once the sun goes down. The Barceloneta and Nova Icaria beaches can be found on either side.
Practical Info
To reach Port Olympic, take the metro (yellow line) to Ciutadella Vila Olimpica.
Address: Edificio Capitanía, s/n, Barcelona 08005, Spain
From $ 12
Sant Joan Funicular Railway
Not to be confused with the Cremallera train service that transports people up the slopes of Montserrat to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria, Barcelona’s Sant Joan Funicular Railway runs from the monastery itself up to the very peak of the mountain. It was built back in 1918 for monks wishing to pray at the Hermitage of Sant Joan, and today it still trundles up the 65% gradient to 1,000 meters(3,280 feet) above sea level for stupendous views across the wild, arid landscapes of Cataluyna. From this vantage point, signposted walking trails lead into one of Catalunya’s most spectacular natural parks; the peaks of Montserrat have been protected since 1987 for their dense forests, in which more than 1,250 species of plants flourish. Animals to be spotted on the mountain slopes include wild goats, foxes and occasional wild boars as well as lizards of all sizes and colors; for wildlife fans there is a small natural history museum at the foot of the Sant Joan Funicular, which shares its opening times with the railway. Four historic villages – El Bruc, Monistrol, Marganell and Collbato – also lie in the Montserrat Natural Park, packed with monasteries, churches, hotels and restaurants.
Practical Info
The funicular is close to Montserrat Monastery. It runs roughly every 20 minutes between 10am–4.50pm in winter, 10am–7.10pm in summer. Single tickets: adult €6.50; seniors €5.85; children under 18 €3.60. Return tickets: adult €10; seniors €9; children under 18 €5.50. Journey time is seven minutes.
Address: Montserrat Monastery, Brcelona, Spain
Hours: Varies by season
Admission: Adult: €10; Children (under 18): €5.50
From $ 76
Plaça Sant Jaume
As the site of the former Roman Forum, Plaça Sant Jaume used to be the center of the old Roman city of Barcino. Originally quite a bit smaller, the large square, which is situated in the Gothic quarter, was partially filled by its namesake church along with its cemetery and other buildings. These days, however, the expansive, cobbled plaza is known as the political center of the city.
Indeed, on one side you’ll set your eyes on the headquarters of local government, City Hall, which features a grand façade that dates back to the late 1800s, and whose interior can be visited once a week on Sundays. Opposite City Hall is the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya, the seat of the Catalan government, and from where 100 presidents have governed. It too is open for visits, but only guided ones, which take place the second and fourth weekend of every month.
Practical Info
Plaça Sant Jaume is an easy-to-visit stop, as it is located in one of the tourist center’s most popular destinations, the Gothic quarter. While here, take note that there is a tourism office located on the ground floor of City Hall.
Address: Plaça de Sant Jaume, Barcelona, Catalonia 08002, Spain
From $ 24
Barcelona City History Museum (MUHBA)
From Roman times to the present day capital of Catalonia, the city of Barcelona has hundreds of years of history and many stories to tell. The Barcelona City History Museum preserves and communicates the historical heritage of the city for locals and visitors alike. There are multiple exhibitions throughout the city with present findings, as well as facilities for ongoing research.
The museum conserves many of the Roman sites of Barcelona as archaeological sites "” while others like the city's Palau Reial Major and the Jewish Quarter date back to the Middle Ages. There are also a fair number of sites related to more modern significances, including Franco and the Spanish Civil War or iconic architect Antoni Gaudi. The museum itself was inaugurated just after the end of the Spanish Civil War, in 1943. Its headquarters at Casa Padellas is a prime example of a Catalán gothic courtyard, and contains an entire preserved quarter of the ancient Roman city of Barcino, which present day Barcelona emerged from.
Practical Info
The museum is located at Plaça del Rei in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter. The closest metro stop is Jaume I. It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm and again from 4 pm to 8 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm, with extended hours in summer. Entrance is 7 euro.
Address: Plaça del Rei, Barcelona, Spain
Hours: Vary
Admission: 7 euro
From $ 52
Torre Agbar
Scan the Barcelona skyline and the Torre Agbar will no doubt be second in line to catch your attention — second, that is, after those iconic spires of La Sagrada Familia. Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, Torre Agbar’s shape is said to have various inspirations, including the rocky peaks of nearby Montserrat Mountain, the quirky shapes of Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, and the bubbling form of a geyser (appropriate since the building’s owners also include Barcelona’s water company as part of their portfolio).
While interesting to spy from afar, the tower is even more intriguing up close, and especially so at night. That’s when the green-energy-driven building puts on its best show by lighting up with some 4,500 LED lights that produce a rainbow of luminescent colors. Located in the industrial-meets-bohemian
Poblenou neighborhood, Torre Agbar is unfortunately not open to the public. But those exterior views are free, and the surrounding area ripe for discovery, making it an important addition to any Barcelona itinerary.
Practical Info
Note that the tower’s interior cannot be visited, and that the ideal time of day to see the building in all its glory is after dark. While you can get to Torre Agbar by public transport, there are other ways to explore it, including by bike, helicopter, and hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Address: Av. Diagonal, 211, Barcelona, Catalonia 08018, Spain
From $ 12