The Ultimate Barcelona Bucket List: 45 Things To Do in the Catalonian Capital

Barcelona is one of my favorite cities in the world. I’ve been to Barcelona five times and have never grown tired of this incredible city. On top of its world-class attractions and museum, the vibe in Barcelona is just immaculate. I can’t think of many cities that know how to enjoy life as much as Barcelona. It is oozing with culture, history, breathtaking architecture, incredible food, and top-notch nightlife. You’ll never run out of things to do in Barcelona. Once you’ve wrapped up your sightseeing adventures, it’s equally as wonderful to just kick back at a tapas bar sipping on cheap cava and feasting on an array of Spanish dishes.

There’s no shortage of incredible adventures in the Catalonian capital, but to get you started, here are 45 things to do in Barcelona.

barcelona spain backpacker travel guide

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The Must-See Attractions of Barcelona

As much as I enjoy doing nothing in Barcelona, it is home to a number of world-famous attractions. Its beaches, cathedrals, and most famously, Gaudi’s repertoire of surreal masterpieces. Touristing is essential on your visit to Barcelona, and these are the can’t-miss tourist attractions.

Roam Through the Picturesque Parc Guell

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Barcelona is Gaudi’s city, and most of the must-see attractions have his name attached to it. Parc Guell is one of Gaudi’s most renowned works, and is one of my favorite places in Barcelona. It is filled with mosaics and mansions in Gaudi’s iconic style. While the main sights of Parc Guell can get crowded with tourists, there are plenty of areas that are more peaceful, blending Gaudi’s eye-popping architecture and structures with greenery and trails. It’s a very picturesque park that one could happily spend hours in.

Marvel at La Sagrada Familia

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Without a doubt Barcelona’s most iconic attraction, is La Sagrada Familia worth the visit? Even if you aren’t a fan of churches or cathedrals, La Sagrada Familia is a masterpiece to behold. I didn’t go inside until my fourth visit to Barcelona, assuming it was an overpriced and overrated tourist attraction. I mean, I’ve seen it from the outside several times, so how much better could it be inside? The entrance fee is pricy, and one often has to book their ticket a couple of days in advance to guarantee a visit at their preferred time. It costs over 30 euros to enter and climb up one of the towers, but it is absolutely worth it. Despite the tourist crowds, the interior, especially the stain-glassed windows, is simply magnificent.

Watch the Sunset at Carmel Bunkers

barcelona carmel bunkers sunset

Looking for a sunset spot with some great vibes? While Carmel Bunkers is no longer a hidden gem, it is still my favorite spot to catch a sunset. This is one of the few places where the crowds might actually augment the experience. The hundreds of happy people add to the electric energy. It’s amazing to see locals and travelers from all over the world get together to have a drink and collectively enjoy nature’s daily golden hour show.

I came here with one friend and left with a dozen more, abducting a busker playing ukulele and bringing her and several others back to my hostel to enjoy an impromptu jam sesh. It was one of the most fun nights of my life, showing just how good of a time one can have in Barcelona without flocking to the overpriced mega clubs.

Laze the Day Away at Barceloneta Beach

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While Barcelona is far from one of Spain’s most beautiful beach destinations, it does have a few worth checking out. The strength of Barcelona’s beaches are that there are plenty of restaurants and bars. It’s a great place to soak in the sun, take a dip, and then have some tapas or a cold sangria afterwards. Barceloneta isn’t the beach if you want to avoid crowds, but there’s a great energy and buzz around this area.

Visit the Stunning Casa Batllo

Despite being relatively overlooked in favor of Parc Guell and La Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s Casa Batllo is still a gorgeous place that can’t be missed. It’s one of Gaudi’s most famous and recognizable buildings, dating back to its roots as a residential building back in 1906. Today, it is home to a museum showcasing the many works of Antoni Gaudi. I’ve never been inside, but the building’s unique facade is beautiful to behold.

Visit Casa Mila (La Pedrera)

roof of the casa mila barcelona spain

Casa Mila, also known as La Pedrera, is another of Gaudi’s famous buildings. It is one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks, currently housing a cultural center and museum showcasing some of Gaudi’s work. The view from the rooftop offers a beautiful panoramic of Barcelona’s cityscapes. The whole building is a work of art, inside and out, as you’ll come to find are typical of Gaudi’s irreplicable style.

Wander Through the Gothic Quarter

barcelona things to do

The Gothic Quarter is sandwiched in between Las Ramblas and El Born, so odds are, you couldn’t miss it if you tried. It’s home to the Cathedral of Barcelona, aka the Samsung billboard. It’s a unique neighborhood filled with narrow alleyways and dozens of bars and restaurants. Roaming through the labyrinth of the Gothic Quarter is a must for anyone visiting Barcelona.

The Gothic Quarter, also known as the Barri Gotic, is one of the most historic neighborhoods in Barcelona and offers a plethora of things to do and see. The Gothic Quarter is known for its narrow winding streets, beautiful Gothic architecture, and charming squares. Take a stroll through the neighborhood and admire the beautiful buildings, including the Gothic Cathedral of Barcelona. There are several beautiful squares in the Gothic Quarter, including the Plaça Reial, Plaça Sant Felip Neri, and Plaça del Pi. If you’re tired of wandering through its maze-like alleyways, take a seat at a restaurant along the plaza and soak up the vibes.

Walk Down Bustling Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is a famous street in central Barcelona that stretches for about a mile from Plaça de Catalunya to the Columbus Monument at the waterfront. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and is known for its vibrant energy, street performers, cafes, and shops.

As touristy as it may be, Las Ramblas is still the liveliest street in Barcelona. This beautiful street lined with trees, shops, bars, and restaurants will guide you from Placa Catalunya all the way to Barceloneta. It’s almost unavoidable, as are the tourist crowds, so just enjoy the walk.

People Watch at Parc de la Ciutadella

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Aside from Parc Guell, this park is my favorite in Barcelona. It’s free to enter, so that makes a pretty big difference. This park is home to such a nice atmosphere, with loads of people picnicking and laying in the grass. Musicians come and play, and there are often random events that take place in the park. I stumbled into a swing dancing class in the gazebo. I would have never expected Barcelona to have a swing dancing scene. There are beautiful gardens, ponds, and a magnificent structure with a big golden statue on top and turquoise waterfalls flowing from it.

Go Window-Shopping at Passeig de Gracia

Barcelona’s most boujee street will naturally attract travelers looking to spend a pretty penny. Along with some of Gaudi’s most famous buildings, Passeig de Gracia is where you’ll find Barcelona’s most high-end shopping and dining. Even if you have no interests in hopping into Dolce and Gabbana, it’s a gorgeous street to walk down, lined with beautiful buildings all throughout.

Visit the MOCO Museum

This contemporary art museum in El Born might be small, but it packs a punch. Boasting pieces from artists like Banksy, KAWS, Warhol, Kehinde Wiley, Guillermo Lorca, and more, it is an essential visit for art-lovers. I loved almost every piece in the museum, and the spaces and exhibits are beautifully-designed. A visit will only take about an hour or two, and the 17 euro entry fee might seem steep, but I thought it was worth it.

See Picasso’s Works at the Picasso Museum

If you’re interested in art or Picasso, visiting the Picasso Museum in El Born is a must. The Picasso Museum is housed in a restored medieval palace, which has been adapted to exhibit Picasso’s works. The collection of the Picasso Museum in Barcelona is one of the most extensive in the world, boasting over 4,000 of Picasso’s works. The museum’s collection includes paintings, drawings, prints, and sculptures from all stages of Picasso’s career, from his earliest academic studies to his later works.

Catch an FC Barcelona Game at Camp Nou

green and red stadium under white sky

FC Barcelona is one of the most successful football clubs in the world, with a long history of talented players and coaches. Watching the team play live can be an incredible experience, especially if you’re a fan of football. Attending an FC Barcelona game at Camp Nou can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for sports fans and football enthusiasts. The atmosphere inside the stadium is electric, and you’ll be surrounded by passionate fans who are there to support their team.

Even if you’re not lucky enough to be in town during a match, it’s possible to take a tour of the Camp Nou stadium.

Visit the Castle of Montjuic

montjuic national palace in barcelona spain

Montjuïc is a hill offering gorgeous views of Barcelona. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, as it offers a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. The most popular attraction on Montjuïc is the Montjuïc Castle, a military fortress built in the 17th century that has played an important role in the history of Barcelona. The castle offers stunning views of the city and the sea, and it has been used as a military prison and a military museum. To reach Montjuïc, you can take the funicular from the Paral·lel metro station, or you can take the cable car from the port area. You can also take the bus or walk up the hill, although it can be quite steep in some parts.

Take the Funicular up to Tibidabo

tibidabo amusement park in barcelona spain

Tibidabo is a mountain located in the northwest of the city, serving as a popular attractions for tourists and locals alike. At the top of the mountain, you’ll find a very interesting but dynamic duo. There is the beautiful neo-gothic church which can be seen from all throughout Barcelona. It is a stunning building located at the highest point of Tibidabo mountain. Right next to the church, you’ll find the Tibidabo Amusement Park, complete with a ferris wheel and other rides and attractions.

To reach Tibidabo, you can take the vintage streetcar that runs through the city all the way up to Plaça del Doctor Andreu. From there, take the funicular up the mountain. Alternatively, you can take the T2A bus from Plaça de Catalunya, which also goes to the top of the mountain.

Take the Barcelona Cable Cars Over the City

low angle shot of teleferic cable cars

There are cable cars in Barcelona that offer scenic views of the city and its surroundings. The Port Cable Car, or Telefèric de Montjuïc, is a cable car that connects the port area with Montjuïc Mountain. It runs from the Miramar station in Montjuïc to the Barceloneta station near the beach, passing over the port and offering beautiful views of the city, the sea, and the surrounding mountains. Taking to Barcelona by cable car offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the city and its surroundings from a different perspective.

Watch a Flamenco Show

Although flamenco originated in Andalusia, it remains a big part of Spanish culture. For travelers who might not get a chance to visit Seville and Andalusia, one can catch a flamenco show in Barcelona. Flamenco is a style of music and dance characterized by its rhythmic complexity, passionate expression, and colorful costumes and props. It is much more than just aggressive stomping of the feet. The flamenco shows that I’ve seen were very passionate, intense, and emotional. It’s seriously unlike any other dance or music I’ve seen before, and if you have a chance, definitely take advantage of Barcelona’s many flamenco shows and theaters.

Neighborhoods For Aimlessly Wandering in Barcelona

One of the best things to do in Barcelona is to go for a walk and see what you find. These are a few of Barcelona’s various neighborhoods that stood out to me. Whether they’re filled with trendy restaurants or an authentic local culture, you can’t go wrong with an aimless wander through these barrios.

El Born

city street building house

El Born is my personal favorite of Barcelona’s many neighborhoods. It has it all, home to some of the top bars and restaurants in the city, without being entirely overwhelmed by tourists. The narrow alleyways make it easy to escape the crowds trickling in from Las Ramblas, and are home to dozens of hidden gems of restaurants and cafes. El Born is filled with history, home to dozens of historic monuments and buildings. At the same time, it is very modern and trendy, with experimental cocktail bars and some of the finest dining you’ll find in Barcelona.

Hostel Recommendation for El Born: Kabul Party Hostel

El Raval

Barcelona Spain

El Raval is a vibrant and multicultural neighborhood located in the heart of Barcelona. It has a diverse population and is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities. Immigrants from all over the world call El Raval home, reflected in the diversity of its restaurants, shops, and atmosphere. The vibrant communities from all over the world make it unlike any other neighborhood in Barcelona, and for that, it is one of my favorites. There is a bomb Filipino restaurant called Filmanila that might be one of the few Filipino restaurants that I truly enjoyed. It’s hard to find good home-cooked style Filipino food, but I’d recommend anyone to try Filmanila.

El Raval has become a popular destination for young people and hipsters in recent years. It’s home to a growing number of trendy bars, restaurants, and cafes, as well as boutique shops and designer stores. El Raval has a bit of an edge to it, with a reputation for being a rough neighborhood in the past. While it has become safer in recent years, some parts of the neighborhood still feel a bit gritty and raw.

Hostel Recommendations for El Raval: Toc Hostel, St. Christopher’s Inn

Barceloneta

Barceloneta is situated right on the coast and is home to several sandy beaches, including Barceloneta Beach and Sant Sebastià Beach. During the summer months, the beaches can get crowded with both tourists and locals soaking up the sun. Barceloneta is a lively neighborhood with a bustling atmosphere. It’s home to a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Given its proximity to the sea, it’s no surprise that Barceloneta is known for its seafood. There are plenty of seafood restaurants in the neighborhood, serving up fresh catches of the day and traditional Catalan dishes like paella.

Gracia

The Gracia neighborhood is a vibrant and bohemian area of Barcelona with a lively atmosphere, narrow streets, and bustling plazas. Located just a short distance from the city center, Gracia has a distinctly local feel, with fewer tourists than some of the more popular neighborhoods in the city. It’s just north of the main tourist hubs, yet you’ll find few tourists roaming around these parts.

The place to hang out in Gracia are its many plazas. These are popular gathering spots among locals to grab a coffee or beer at any hour of the day. Plaça del Sol, for example, is a lively square that is surrounded by bars and cafes. It’s a great spot for people watching and enjoying the local atmosphere with a beer in hand. Another notable square is Plaça de la Vila de Gracia, home to restaurants and bars, as well as the beautiful clock tower of the old town hall. Gracia is a great place to explore if you’re looking for a more laid-back and local experience of Barcelona.

Hostel Recommendation for Gracia: Generator Hostel

Poble Nou

Poble Nou is a great neighborhood to visit or stay in when visiting Barcelona. This former industrial district has been revitalized in recent years and is now a trendy and vibrant neighborhood with a unique character. Poble Nou is also known for its creative and artistic scene, with many galleries, studios, and co-working spaces located in the area. The neighborhood has a mix of modern and industrial architecture, with many buildings that have been repurposed as creative spaces.

Badalona

Badalona is a city situated just north of Barcelona and is easily accessible by metro or train. It’s known for its long sandy beaches and its lively waterfront promenade. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, with a number of historic buildings and landmarks, including the Roman Baths of Badalona, a well-preserved Roman archeological site. The city’s old town is also worth exploring, with its narrow streets, charming squares, and traditional shops and restaurants.

Day Trips from Barcelona

While I can’t imagine running out of things to do or places to eat whilst in Barcelona, there are a number of day trips worth escaping the city for. Here are a few of my favorite day trips from Barcelona.

The Abbey of Montserrat

A convenient but stunning day trip to take from Barcelona is to the Abbey of Montserrat. This place is just surreal. The Abbey of Montserrat is nestled high up in the mountains offering otherworldly views. One can catch a train directly from Placa Espanya before taking a cable car. From there, one can take in the beautiful architecture and designs of the monastery, or take to the hiking trails for stunning views of the mountains and surrounding countryside.

Hiking Near Montserrat: Pic Sant Jeroni

The views from the summit of Montserrat are absolutely breathtaking. Hikers will be treated to panoramic views of the Catalan countryside, as well as stunning vistas of the mountain range itself. The Sant Jeroni hike is approximately 6.5 kilometers long and can take anywhere from 3-5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level. Hikers should be prepared for a challenging ascent, but the stunning views from the top make it all worth it.

Girona

Girona is a small city a little over an hour away from Barcelona. It is one of Catalonia’s most historic cities, with many interesting sights to see to fill up a day trip. Girona’s Old Town is a charming and picturesque area that is well-preserved and has a fascinating history dating back thousands of years. It is home to many historic buildings and monuments, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Jewish Quarter, and the medieval city walls. The colorful houses along the River Onyar and the bridges that cross it also make for a stunning view.

One of the main attractions in Girona is the Game of Thrones filming locations, as the city was used as a setting for some scenes in the popular TV show. Fans can visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria, which was used as the Great Sept of Baelor, and walk along the Passeig Arqueològic, which features scenes from the series. Girona is also well-known for its pastry shops, where you can try their traditional xuixo, a sweet pastry filled with crema catalana.

Costa Brava

Barcelona’s Costa Brava is a stunning stretch of coastline in northeastern Spain, known for its picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside towns. One of the best ways to explore the Costa Brava is by renting a car. This will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit some of the smaller, more secluded beaches and towns that are off the beaten path. It’s also possible to visit the Costa Brava using public transportation. Trains and buses run regularly from Barcelona to several towns along the coast, including Blanes, Lloret de Mar, and Tossa de Mar. The Costa Brava is known for its stunning beaches, so be sure to visit at least a few during your trip. Some of the most popular beaches include Cala Canyelles and Llafranc.

Another option for visiting the Costa Brava is by taking a tour, like this one which offers kayaking and snorkeling in the Costa Brava’s stunning waters.

Cadaques

This charming small coastal town is about two hours from Barcelona and can be visited as a day trip. Be warned, you might want to stay much, much longer. Cadaques is a gorgeous town of all-white architecture, contrasting with the turquoise blue waters it’s nestled on.

Figueres

This small town is famous mostly for the Salvador Dali Museum. Figueres is where Dali was born and died, and his museum is an impressive testament to his life and career. The museum itself is a masterpiece worthy of Dali himself, almost as eccentric as the character it is dedicated to. It houses several of his notable works spanning his various styles and eras. From sculptures to paintings to sketches and more, it is a must-visit for anyone who is a fan of Dali.

Andorra

church tower in ordino andorra

Heck, why not visit an entirely different country altogether while you’re here? The Pyrenees Mountains offer some of the most stunning natural scenery in Europe, and Andorra is no exception. The country is home to beautiful lakes, valleys, and mountain peaks that are perfect for exploring. The easiest way to get to Andorra from Barcelona is by car. It’s about a 3-hour drive, and the route takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Pyrenees. There are several companies that offer bus services between Barcelona and Andorra. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, and buses typically run several times per day.

If you prefer not to drive or take public transportation, there are several companies that offer organized tours to Andorra from Barcelona. These tours typically include transportation, a guide, and visits to some of the most popular attractions in Andorra, such as mountain viewpoints and the capital, Andorra la Vella.

Restaurants and Food Markets of Barcelona

Sightseeing and adventuring is hard work. You’re going to have to keep yourself nourished throughout all of your Spanish shenanigans. Luckily, Barcelona is just as rich in cuisine as it is in culture. There are no shortage of incredible restaurants to fit any budget. Whether you’re looking to splurge on a feast of seafood tapas or pinch pennies at a 1 euro wine bar, Barcelona’s got you covered.

Feast on Some Paella

delicious paella with mollusks in big frying pan

Paella is a traditional rice dish that originated in Valencia, but it’s also very popular in Barcelona. Traditionally, paella is made with saffron, seafood, and sometimes chicken or rabbit. In Barcelona, seafood was my go-to paella and it never disappointed. It’s probably the most iconic dish in Spanish cuisine, so be sure to take advantage of the many amazing paella places in Barcelona.

La Boqueria Market

people on market

Despite being quite touristy, La Boqueria is still my favorite market in Barcelona. It’s conveniently located right on Las Ramblas, so one can pop in for a quick croquette or a cone of cheese and Iberian ham. It is a little more expensive than more local markets, but the prices aren’t outrageous by any means. La Boqueria is a perfect one-stop shop for snacking and drinking in a very convenient location. It was almost too convenient, as I’d inevitably walk post and be unable to control the urge to grab a plate of calamari.

Mercat de Santa Caterina

Mercat de Santa Caterina is another popular food market located in the trendy El Born neighborhood. The market is known for its colorful, undulating roof and its wide selection of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local products. It’s a good alternative to La Boqueria, and not too far of a walk away either.

Can Paixano

I’m a big fan of cheap drinks, cheap food, and a lively crowd. Can Paixano delivers all of that. With 1.70 euro cups of cava and an assortment of affordable and tasty drunk snacks, Can Paixano won’t break the bank. The locals know this is the spot to be, and you’ll find people here all throughout the day. We came in the early afternoon and the Catalonians were already having a grand ol’ time. We left to another place and after two drinks there, decided that Can Paixano was where the party was at. A 9 euro bottle of rose and numerous new friends whose names I’ll never remember later… we went to bed at 8 PM.

El Xampanyet

El Xampanyet is a tasty good time. It’s one of my favorite tapas bars in Barcelona, although the glasses of wine are so cheap you might end up forgetting what you even ate. The place is becoming more popular among tourists, but locals still frequent El Xampanyet and add to its lively atmosphere. Seating is limited and you’ll likely end up seated with strangers. Don’t worry. They’ll quickly become friends after a few glasses of their house wine.

El Canete

Feeling like treating yourself? El Canete in El Raval is one of my favorite restaurants, although the price tag will have most backpackers fleeing the scene. It’s really not too bad, although if you want to get full, this isn’t the place for you. The food is divine, and the best (or worst) part is that all the food is made right in front of you. It’s such a cool experience, like a fancy Spanish Waffle House. The bad part about that is that you will get food envy and want to order everything. Seriously, there was not a single dish that didn’t make my mouth water.

Can’t-Miss Nightlife Spots in Barcelona

Once the paella’s settled in your stomachs, it’s time to dance the carbs away. Few places do nightlife as well as Barcelona. There are options no matter what kind of party you’re looking for.

Gracia Latina

I love Latin music, from salsa to cumbia to reggaeton and beyond. Gracia Latina is a relatively local spot that’s mostly frequented by Spanish locals or expats from Latin America. It’s a real Latin party with people who are guaranteed to be dancing the night away. The 7 euro caipirinhas go down smoothly. Trust me, you’ll need a couple of them if you are going to show off your salsa skills. When I go out in Gracia, this is usually where I end up until the doors shut at 3 AM. Afterwards, the choices in Gracia are limited but Switch and Almodobar are two late night options.

Opium

Opium is perhaps the best-known of Barcelona and Port Olimpic’s mega beach clubs. Its beachfront location is a popular spot throughout the day, into the late hours of night, and often into the morning. There are numerous dance floors, as well as a large outdoor terrace. I’ve been to Opium once or twice, and it is pricy but fun. The atmosphere is lively and there is usually a good crowd of people here. It’s one of those places you go to just to tick off a box, but I wouldn’t personally go here again unless there was a big name DJ or artist playing.

Shoko

This beachfront nightclub is among Port Olimpic’s big name party hubs. It attracts a more upscale crowd, and the cover fees and drink prices reflect that. The music is mostly commercial dance, pop, and electronic music, but the party is usually bumping and it is almost always guaranteed that you’d find a good crowd here. The clientele are mostly tourists, so don’t plan on having much of a local experience here. However, it’s fun to do for one or two nights if you’re on holiday looking to party hard.

Pacha

This is the Barcelona outpost of the legendary Ibiza nightclub, featuring a glamorous and upscale atmosphere with international DJs playing house and electronic beats. Again, like most of the clubs in the Port Olimpic area, Pacha can be expensive and crowded.

Jamboree

Jamboree is a popular bar and nightclub located in the Gothic Quarter. It is known for its live music performances and parties. The bar has been around for several decades and is a tried-and-true venue to catch live jazz, funk, and other genres of music.

Jamboree is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it’s often quite busy, particularly on weekend nights. The bar has a cozy and intimate feel, with a small stage at the front where musicians perform. Don’t be fooled, though, it gets quite rowdy. Its location right next to Kabul Party Hostel usually makes it a convenient spot for partying backpackers. If you’re looking for a fun and energetic night out, Jamboree is definitely worth a visit.

Paradiso

Named the best bar in the world in 2023, Paradiso is an experience. We came right when it opened and still had to wait in line, although it wasn’t too long of a wait. I can imagine it’s much longer if you aren’t there at 4 PM. You’d have no idea what time it is once you’ve entered through their secret door, though. The interior is nice and moody, with jungly decor and red lighting. Paradiso is renowned for its experimental cocktails. We sampled a few of the menu, and while some were hit or miss, the presentation and effort is definitely there. Personally, I loved the experience, although my wallet would disagree. To be fair, paying 12-20 euros for a cocktail is not far off from a mediocre bar in any American city, so I really can’t complain.

Sips

Like Paradiso, Sips is known for its creative cocktails, cozy atmosphere, and friendly staff. It also made an appearance as one of the world’s best bars, coming in at #3. Two of the top three bars in the world? That’s Barcelona for ya. Sips has a laid-back and intimate feel, with dim lighting and comfortable seating. The cocktail menu at Sips is extensive, with a wide variety of creative and innovative drinks to choose from. The bartenders are skilled and knowledgeable, and they’re happy to help you find a drink that suits your tastes. The prices at Sips are relatively high, but this is to be expected for a cocktail bar in this part of town.

Marula Cafe

Marula Cafe is a funky bar in the Gothic Quarter with a packed dance floor and some great beats. The music is typically a blend of funk and electronic, and is a good place for partygoers who want an alternative to pop and reggaeton. It’s located in the Gothic Quarter and is popular among both locals and travelers looking for a night of dancing and good music. It does get quite busy, especially during the weekends, but the vibe is good and the energy is high.

Razzmatazz

Razzmatazz is a legendary nightclub located in the Poble Nou neighborhood of Barcelona. It is known for its eclectic music programming, with five different rooms offering different genres of music, including indie rock, electronic dance music, and hip-hop. Razzmatazz attracts huge crowds, thanks to its lineup of big-name artists and reputation for throwing the best parties in town.

I’ve tried getting into Razzmatazz twice and have been turned away at the door both times. It’s best to buy a ticket in advance if you want to guarantee getting in, as by the time you stumble over to Poble Nou, they’ll likely already be at capacity. It is the place to be in Barcelona.


These are just a few examples of the many things to see and do in Barcelona. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or simply soaking up the local culture, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and dynamic city. No matter your tastes or interests, Barcelona will deliver. This list is a good starting point, but be sure to wander on your own and see what Barcelona has in store. No two travelers have the same experience in this unforgettable and ever-changing city.

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