Barcelona 3-day itinerary
Spain
Where to go and what to see in Barcelona – a 3-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Dana Facaros.
Bucket list experience:
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Immaculately white and full of light, MACBA, as it’s known, champions cutting-edge international and Catalan contemporary art, dating from the mid 20th century onwards.
The museum aims to preserve a record of post-war art, with three modern periods represented: the 1940s-60s, 1960s-70s and the contemporary period.
Designed by the American architect Richard Meier, MACBA is a powerful symbol of the changes in Raval, a neighbourhood that was once an insalubrious slum – it even has skateboard-friendly ramps.
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Destination Guide >Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience
Spain
Where to go and what to see in Barcelona – a 3-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Dana Facaros.
Catalunya (lines 1 and 3) and Universitat (line 2) are the two nearest metro stops; or Plaça de Catalunya station is a 10-minute walk away. It’s usually fine to show up and buy tickets on the day, at the ticket desk. Free guided tours of exhibitions are run daily, in English and Catalan and sometimes Spanish. See the website for exhibitions and tour times.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
A chic, intimate boutique hotel set in a former jewellers, right on the Ramblas, perfect for shopping and sightseeing.
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Barcelona, Catalunia, Spain
Historic charm, contemporary chic and great food combine in this beguiling bolthole, on a picturesque square in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.
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Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
A stylish, central hotel in the hip El Born district, with 1920s features and one of the best rooftop pools in town.
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Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
The MO boasts spectacular interiors, a world-class spa, double-Michelin starred restaurant and an unparalleled location on the beautiful Passeig de Gracia.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Catalonia, Spain
Spain’s cultural heart has unforgettable architecture, a pioneering arts scene, creative cuisine and nightlife that buzzes till dawn.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
This vibrant market is a Barcelona institution, packed with almost a thousand stalls selling fresh produce or dine-in tapas.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
The former home of the Batllo family, Gaudí’s shimmering, colour-drenched townhouse is a Modernista masterpiece.
Best for ages: 8+ | £32
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Absorbing collection of early and late works by Picasso, in a beautiful Gothic palace. The collection includes Picasso’s 58 paintings inspired by Velazquez’s Las Meninas.
Best for ages: 18+ | £11
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Marking the culmination of his experimentation with natural forms, Gaudi’s landmark apartment building resembles a giant cliff face battered by the sea. Inside, a remarkable Gaudi-style apartment, an attic filled with architectural exhibits, and the extraordinary roof and chimneys.
Best for ages: 8+ | £25
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
A thrumming, lively street running through the heart of Barcelona towards the sea, is a magnet for outlandish street performers – and tourists.
Best for ages: 4+ | Free
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
This massive pile is Catalan Gothic at its most grandiose, full of wonders: lavishly ornate chapels, Renaissance sculpted choir stalls, and crypt of patron saint Eulalia. The cloister is especially charming.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Catalan’s gorgeous Modernista concert hall, Palau Musica, is a must-see for its extraordinary architecture. It’s now a UNESCO world heritage site.
Best for ages: 18+ | £17
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Barcelona’s seafaring past comes to life in this venue set in the city’s 14th-century shipyards, starring a life-size model of Don Juan’s flagship at Lepanto.
Best for ages: 13+ | £5