1. Stay Central—Even If It’s a Hostel

We stayed in a hostel that was okay comfort-wise, but the location made it totally worth it. It was right next to Casa Batlló, one of Gaudí’s masterpieces.

Pro tip: when choosing accommodation, prioritize location over luxury—Barcelona is a walkable city, and staying central saves tons of time and energy.

2. Get to Know Gaudí

Even if you’ve never heard of Antoni Gaudí before, you’ll quickly become familiar with his whimsical, dreamlike architecture. His influence is everywhere—from the fairy-tale turrets of Park Güell to the iconic Sagrada Família.

I have a few tips, but one of my favorites is to visit Park Güell before 8 AM to enter for free! We went early and caught the sunrise over the city—it was magical and totally worth the early wake-up call. Plus, fewer crowds!

3. Wander the Streets—and I Mean Really Wander

Barcelona’s old town is full of narrow alleyways where only one or two people can pass at a time. We spent hours just strolling, discovering little churches, candle-lit ceremonies, and charming corners without a set plan. Getting lost is half the fun here.

4. Visit the Markets (Especially La Boqueria)

Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, right off La Rambla, is a foodie paradise. I had some of the best empanadas and fresh fruit juices of my life there. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or stocking up on snacks, the market is vibrant, colorful, and full of local flavor.

Tip: bring cash and keep an eye on your belongings—pickpockets love busy tourist spots like this.

5. Watch Out for Pickpockets

This one’s important: Barcelona is notorious for skilled pickpockets, especially in popular spots like La Rambla, the Arc de Triomf, and metro stations. Always keep your bags zipped and your phone in a secure place. We didn’t have any incidents, but we were super cautious.

6. Don’t Skip Montjuïc

Later in the day, we visited Castell de Montjuïc, a fortress perched on a hill with panoramic views of the city. It doubles as a museum with military exhibits and is a peaceful, less-touristy spot to explore. You can hike up or take the cable car—either way, the views are worth it.

7. Try Unexpected Food

While we loved Spanish cuisine, we also wanted to explore local takes on international food. We stumbled upon Takumi, a fantastic ramen spot that even had takeaway (which can be rare in Spain). And right after, we hit up Brunch & Cake—a trendy spot known for Instagram-worthy dishes that also taste as good as they look.

8. Sagrada Família Is a Must—And So Is the Audio Tour

You simply can’t visit Barcelona without seeing the Sagrada Família. Yes, it’s still under construction—but that doesn’t take away from its jaw-dropping beauty. The stained glass windows and organic, tree-like pillars make the interior feel like a dreamscape.

I highly recommend getting the audio tour—it adds so much context and brings Gaudí’s vision to life. There’s also a small museum downstairs with models and plans that are worth checking out.

Bonus tip: Some people try to visit during service to enter for free, but I suggest buying a ticket and respecting the space as a place of worship.

9. Watch the City from Above (With a Drink)

One thing I didn’t get to do—but definitely want to next time—is enjoy a drink at a rooftop bar with a view of the Sagrada Família. It’s a popular thing to do, and I’ve seen some amazing photos online. If you have time, find a rooftop spot for sunset and soak in the skyline.

10. Leave Time for More Markets

Barcelona is packed with markets beyond La Boqueria—if you can, explore a few more. They’re where locals actually shop and eat, and each has its own vibe and specialties.

Final Thoughts

Barcelona is one of those cities that just gets under your skin in the best way. It’s quirky, vibrant, and full of contrasts—whether you’re wandering through a Gaudí masterpiece or sipping juice in a buzzing market. While we only spent a couple of days there, we squeezed in a lot and still left wanting more.

If you’re heading to Spain, make sure to give Barcelona the time it deserves. And don’t forget these Barcelona travel tips to help you plan a trip that’s as memorable as mine.