Top things to see and do in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most popular locations in Europe for people looking to get away for a few days. Being one of the largest cities in Spain, there is plenty to see and do in and around Barcelona, so read on to find out the best bits of the capital of Catalonia and discover what makes this place such a great short break.

Monjuic’s castle in Barcelona

Ride the cable cars

One of the best ways to view the city is from up in the air on one of the cable cars that allow you to see some unrivalled views of the sea front from 350ft. There are 2 cable car services – Barcelona Montjuic Park and Transbordador. The Transbordador car runs from the Tower of Sant Sebastià to the sea port, while the Montjuic Park cable car starts at the top of the Montjuic Mountain and takes you to the port. Rides cost around €9 one way, or €13 return. The cable cars can be a bit scary so if you’re not great with heights then you might be best avoiding them.

Visit Barcelona Zoo

Barcelona Zoo is home to 1000s of different creatures, including mammals such as Hippos, gorillas, anteaters, wolves, gazelles and many different species of monkey. Amongst the birds are flamingos and penguins, while there are also snakes and crocodiles in the reptile areas. Admission costs €16.50 for adults and €9.90 for children up to the age of 12.

La Ramblas

Probably the most famous street in Barcelona, between El Ravel and the gothic quarter lies over a kilometre of bars, restaurants, shops, stalls selling items from flowers to jewellery, along street entertainers ranging from football freestylers, artists, mimes and human statues.

Tourists in La Ramblas are common targets for pick pockets, so ensure that you’re aware of who is around you, and avoid anyone who tries to invite you to a game on a stall in the street as they will often be a con.

Check out Park Guell

A public park that is free to enter, Park Guell was created by Antoni Gaudi, and showcases some of his best work including a large mosaic made from tiles around the walls of the municipal garden. At the entrance to the park you’ll see the Gaudi dragon fountain, a fountain guarded by a mystical dragon. There is also an onsite museum built by Gaudi which was once his house.

Camp Nou Stadium tour

The Camp Nou stadium is the biggest in Europe with a capacity of just under 100,000, and is currently home to FC Barcelona; arguably the greatest football team of all time. See where legends have made their name throughout the years such as Cruyff, Maradona, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Xavi, Iniesta and of course Lionel Messi.

The stadium tour allows you to visit the changing rooms, the press room, the presidential box (where you can get the obligatory photo with the club’s motto in the seats behind you), before you walk out through the tunnel and sit in the manager’s dugout. You can also get your photo taken with the European Cup which they won at Wembley in May. The tour costs €19 for adults and €15.50 for children up to the age of 13.

Picasso Museum

One of the most popular museums in Barcelona, the Museu Picasso has over 3800 works of art by Pablo Picasso. Opened in 1963, the museum has special exhibitions on throughout the year showcasing local artist’s work, along with unseen pieces of Picasso’s creations. The museum was recently renovated and expanded to accommodate more displays, and there are guided tours of the various galleries available if you wish to learn more.

Barcelona Aquarium

Barcelona Aquarium is home to some 11,000 animals from over 450 different species. There is also an ‘Oceanarium’ – an 80meter underwater walkway that gets you closer to the sea life, where you can see sharks, giltheads, ocean sunfish and manta rays. There are separate areas for Mediterranean and tropical wildlife, plus the opportunity to go diving with the sharks if you’re a qualified diver. Admission costs €17.75 for adults and €12.75 for children.

The Barcelona Card

The Barcelona card is a great way to save money while in the city; money off entrance fees to the major attractions and free unlimited transport so no need for a hire car here. The card is available from tourist information offices, so pick one up and save money whilst you’re away.

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