2 Days In Barcelona: The Ultimate Barcelona Tips And Itinerary

Barcelona is a vibrant city for an ultimate city break, that is packed with delicious food, stunning architecture, amazing attractions and things to see and do. Barcelona is beloved by both locals and international visitors alike, whether they're visiting for leisure or business. To fully enjoy your time in the city, we recommend planning your itinerary in advance and securing tickets beforehand to avoid any delays or waiting in lines.

With only 2 days to explore, it can be tough to know where to start. Here we have put together our ultimate 2 days in Barcelona itinerary to help you discover the city’s soul and enjoy in a relaxed tempo. So let’s dive in and explore the best of Barcelona in 48 hours, whether it is a city break, brief weekend getaway, a stop-over or an add-on to your business trip in Spain:

Barcelona Itinerary Day 1 – Around Historic Centre

On the first day, let’s start with a leisure walk around the city centre and discover some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

La Rambla

This is the most iconic 1.2km long boulevard of Barcelona lined with shops, cafes, florists, kiosks and street artists. La Rambla (singular) or Las Ramblas (plural), meaning “sandy riverbed”, is a pedestrian-only street and is perfect place for some people watching and soak in the city hustle bustle. Along the street, you will find some very famous La Boqueria Market, Canaletes fountain and Colombus statue when reaching the southeast end of the street.

Gothic Quarter

Located to the south end of La Rambla, Gothic Quarter is home to some of the city’s oldest buildings and streets. Some mysterious alleys in the area, dating from 13-15th century, are mixed with the hip-culture of the present Barcelona creating a mix of architectural styles.

A Gothic Quarter Walking Tour in Barcelona takes you on a guided journey through the winding streets and alleys, visit iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Barcelona and the Plaça del Rei, and discover hidden gems like charming plazas and tucked-away alleyways. It's a fascinating and immersive way to experience one of Barcelona's most iconic neighborhoods.

Cathedral of Barcelona

The Cathedral of Barcelona, also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. This stunning Gothic-style cathedral was built between the 13th and 15th centuries and features a stunning facade adorned with intricate carvings and towering spires.

Inside, visitors can marvel at the cathedral's beautiful stained-glass windows, soaring arches, and ornate chapels. The highlight of the cathedral is the stunning cloister, which is home to a tranquil garden filled with palm trees, orange trees, and a beautiful fountain.

Another interesting feature of the Cathedral of Barcelona is the crypt, which houses the tomb of Saint Eulalia, the patron saint of Barcelona. Visitors can descend into the crypt to see the tomb and learn about the life and legacy of this revered saint.

Admission: from €9, book ticket here

Placita de la Seu

The Placita de la Seu is a charming square located in the heart of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, just a short walk from the Cathedral. This picturesque plaza is surrounded by historic buildings and is known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the Cathedral's towering spires. Visitors can relax on the benches and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or take a stroll through the nearby streets to explore the neighborhood's many hidden gems.

Parc de la Ciutadella

Parc de la Ciutadella is one of Barcelona's largest and most popular parks, offering visitors a wide range of activities and attractions to enjoy. Some of the top things to do in the park include strolling along the tree-lined paths, taking a boat ride on the lake, and visiting the Cascada Fountain, which was designed by the same architect who created the Arc de Triomf.

Arc De Triomf

The Arc de Triomf is another must-see attraction in Barcelona, located just a short walk from the Parc de la Ciutadella. This iconic arch was built in 1888 and features stunning sculptures and intricate carvings that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can climb to the top of the arch for stunning views of the surrounding area, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets to admire the many historic buildings and charming cafes.

Barcelona Itinerary Day 2 – The Magical World of Gaudi

On the second day of your Barcelona adventure, get ready to explore the fantastical creations in the magical world of Antoni Gaudi, one of the most celebrated architects of the 20th century.

Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is the world’s tallest church upon its completion that soaring above Barcelona’s landscape. Guided tour is provided for visitors to learn more about the history and symbolism of the building. For those who are feeling adventurous, climbing to the top of the towers offers a breathtaking view of the city below. And if you're interested in learning more about the cathedral's history and construction, be sure to visit the Sagrada Familia Museum.

Admission: from €26, book ticket here

Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera)

Located in the heart of Barcelona, 6-minute walking away from each other on the Passeig de Gràcia street, these two buildings are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of works by Gaudi. Casa Batlló features a colourful and undulating facade, with intricate details and ornamentation throughout, including the Noble Floor which showcases the luxurious living quarters of the Batlló family.

Admission: from €29

At Casa Milà also known as La Pedrera, visitors can take in the unique architecture and breathtaking views from the rooftop terrace of the city and a chance to get up close with the iconic chimneys that resemble the mask of a medieval knight, while also learning about the history of the building and its visionary creator. Both buildings offer an unforgettable experience and a chance to see Gaudi's genius up close.

Admission: from €25

Palau Güell

Palau Güell is a mansion designed by Gaudi built between 1886 and 1888 and served as the palace residence for the Güell family. The mansion is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and open to visitors. The building’s exterior features a sober façade that does not resemble his more popular other projects, but still featuring his iconic style with the parabolic arch entrance and mosaic figures on the roof. Visitors can explore the building's many rooms and learn about the history and significance of the Palau Güell to Barcelona's cultural heritage.

Admission: from €12, book ticket here

The Montjuic park and the free Magic Fountain Show

The Montjuic is the hill with many activities to do in the southwest part of Barcelona, which hosted the Summer Olympics in 1992. If you have more time to stay in Barcelona and fancy spending a day exploring museums or walking through parks and gardens, Montjuic is a good option. Some of the best are: Castle of Montjuic, the Gardens of Joan Brossa, the Gardens of Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer, the Albéniz Mansion, and the Gardens of Laribal. Otherwise, a visit to the Magic Fountain show here is the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing in Barcelona. The shows are free to attend, and visitors can take in the colorful display while relaxing in the beautiful surroundings of Montjuic in the evening.

Admission to the Magic Fountain Show is free. The show normally starts at 9:30pm, however it might vary depending on times of the year, so ensure to check the city’s website before your visit.

Barcelona beaches

If you have additional time to spare in Barcelona or wish to modify the itinerary, consider visiting the city's beaches for some relaxation. The 4.5 kilometres of coastline of Barcelona with gorgeous sands for lounging, games and everything else waiting for you to choose from. Barceloneta Beach is the city’s most famous one with white sand and turquoise waters. Local and tourists love to gather here so it can be crowded especially during hot summer. Other quitter beaches to consider are: Nova Icaria Beach, Bogatell Beach, Mar Bella Beach where you can spend quality time with your families, friends or solo chilling on the beach. Bars and restaurants along the beach side are best places to have a seafood lunch with view.

Best restaurants in Barcelona

Barcelona is also well known for variety of cuisine that is rich in flavour from tapas, paella, seafood, international cuisine and cheap eats sandwiches. To truly appreciate the city's food culture, make sure to explore all these different dining experiences during your visit to Barcelona. With so many options to choose from, from high-end Michelin-starred restaurants to local bars and markets, here are some best restaurants for your short trip in Barcelona:

Cocina Hermanos Torres: is a popular Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique dining experience, blending traditional Spanish cuisine with innovative techniques and modern twists.

Disfrutar: another 2 Michelin-starred restaurant that serves innovative Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant features a chic and modern interior and an impressive wine list.

El Celler de Can Roca: is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant specializes in Catalan cuisine and has been consistently ranked as one of the world's best restaurants.

Dos Palillos: offers a unique blend of Japanese and Spanish cuisine, and it is known for its inventive dishes with a focus on tapas-style small plates. The menu changes frequently to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Bar Cañete: is more casual and affordable option with cosy and rustics atmosphere with bar and dining rooms. It is famous for traditional Spanish cuisine, tapas, grilled octopus, Galician-style octopus, and the beef sirloin steak.

Martinez: is known for its delicious tapas and seafood dishes and extensive selection of cocktails. The bar has a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, with a mix of modern and traditional decor.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Barcelona has many great neighbourhoods to choose from, each with its own unique vibe and attractions. To ensure a quick and easy commute to your destinations, it's recommended to stay in close proximity to a metro station. Our Capri by Fraser Barcelona located in Sant Marti is well-connected by public transportation to explore other parts of the city, offers access to several beaches as well as variety of dining and nightlife options nearby.

The hotel features modern and well-appointed apartments with kitchenettes, making it a great choice for those who prefer the flexibility of self-catering accommodations. The full range of facilities are designed for your 24/7 lifestyle including gym, restaurant, bar and parking ensuring you enjoy Barcelona with peace of mind.

Now get ready to experience the best of Barcelona with our two-day itinerary! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, put on your walking shoes and grab your camera for an exciting adventure in this beautiful city.

Summary of 2-day itinerary in Barcelona

Day 1: La Rambla – Gothic Quarter – Cathedral of Barcelona – Placita de la Seu – Parc de la Ciutadella – Arc De Triomf

Day 2: Sagrada Familia – Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera) - Palau Güell - The Montjuic park - Barcelona beaches

Click to see in Google map

FAQs

How to get around Barcelona?

Public transportation in Barcelona is easy and efficient with trains, metro, buses and trams. For sightseeing, you probably want to try biking get around the city. The city has a dedicated bike paths, making it easy and safe to bike in many areas. Some places to rent bike in Barcelona for tourists are: Donkye, Barcelona Rent a Bike.

When is the best time to visit Barcelona?

Summer is the highest tourist season with lots of activities and festivals for a fun beach holiday. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer nice temperatures and allow more enjoyable exploration around the city