Barcelona is a vibrant and exciting city where you can find many beautiful attractions and interesting experiences. Beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, this city is the perfect destination for a week-long vacation. If you're planning a trip to this amazing city, here's a suggested itinerary for a week in Barcelona from locals.
If you want something unique, feel free to check our top picks for hidden gems. Also, we recommend you plan around the festivals! If you want to attend one, get your accommodation in advance!
Day 1: Explore the Gothic Quarter
Upon arrival in Barcelona, take some time to settle in at your hotel and get acquainted with the city. In the afternoon, head out to explore the Gothic Quarter, one of Barcelona's oldest and most charming neighborhoods. Wander through its narrow streets and alleys. Admire the beautiful architecture and stop at its many shops and cafes.
Later, head to Plaça Reial, a lively square in the Gothic Quarter that is home to many bars and restaurants. Enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Catalan cuisine and a glass of local wine or sangria.
Day 2: Visit Antoni Gaudi's Architecture
On your second day, visit two of Barcelona's most famous landmarks, Park Guell and La Sagrada Familia. Start your day at Park Guell, a colorful, whimsical park designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi, with stunning views of the city. Spend some time exploring the park's many pathways, fountains, and sculptures, and don't forget to take a picture on the iconic serpentine bench.
In the afternoon, head to La Sagrada Familia, a breathtaking church that is still under construction, with elaborate towers and stained-glass windows. Take a guided tour of the church to learn about its fascinating history and admire its stunning architecture.
In the evening, head to Gracia, a trendy neighborhood known for its hip bars and restaurants. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the neighborhood's many eateries, followed by drinks at a local bar or rooftop terrace.
Day 3: Relax at the Beach
Barcelona is known for its beautiful beaches, and on your third day, take some time to relax and soak up the sun. Head to Barceloneta Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the city, and spend the day lounging on the sand, swimming in the sea, and enjoying the beachside bars and restaurants.
In the evening, head to Poble Sec, a neighborhood known for its excellent tapas bars and restaurants. Sample some of the city's best tapas, paired with a glass of local wine or beer.
Day 4: Explore Montserrat
On your fourth day, take a day trip to Montserrat, a stunning mountain range just outside of Barcelona. Here, you can visit the famous Benedictine monastery, which houses the Black Madonna, a revered statue of the Virgin Mary. Take a hike in the mountains and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
In the evening, head to the Born neighborhood, known for its trendy boutiques and cocktail bars. Take a stroll through the neighborhood's charming streets, stopping at local shops and cafes along the way.
Day 5: Visit the Picasso Museum and El Born
Barcelona is home to many museums and galleries, but one of the most famous is the Picasso Museum. Spend the morning exploring this fascinating museum, which houses many of Picasso's most famous works. In the afternoon, head to the trendy neighborhood of El Born, where you can shop at local boutiques and enjoy the neighborhood's many bars and cafes.
In the evening, head to Raval, a multicultural neighborhood known for its street art and alternative vibe. Explore the neighborhood's many shops, galleries, and bars, and grab dinner at a local restaurant serving international cuisine.
Day 6: Gracia Neighborhood
Gracia is a hip and bohemian neighborhood that is popular with locals and visitors alike. Spend the day exploring this charming neighborhood, stopping at its many art galleries, vintage shops, and cafes. Be sure to check out the colorful street decorations during the neighborhood's annual Festa Major in August.
In the evening, head to the Eixample neighborhood, where you'll find some of the city's best cocktail bars and nightlife. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails at a stylish speakeasy, or dance the night away at a popular club.
Day 7: Magic Fountain and the National Palace
On your last day in Barcelona, visit the Magic Fountain, a spectacular fountain show that takes place in the evening. The fountain is located in the Montjuic neighborhood, so you can spend the day exploring this area's many attractions, including the National Palace, a beautiful building that houses the Catalan Art Museum. Take a guided tour of the museum and enjoy the stunning views of the city from its rooftop terrace.
In the evening, head back to Montjuic to watch the Magic Fountain show, which features a stunning display of lights, music, and water. After the show, head to a nearby restaurant for a farewell dinner of delicious Catalan cuisine.
This itinerary provides just a taste of the many amazing things to see and do in Barcelona. For more ideas and recommendations, check out our other posts and a post on 3 Days in Barcelona.
