There's just no place like Barcelona! This seaside city is full of culture, incredible drinking and dining options, and world-renowned architecture. This is the perfect combination for us but what makes it even more incredible is that one of our best friends was born and raised here. We have the inside scoop on where to eat and drink, along with a checklist of must-see locations!

My friend still owns property here, so she's still very current on today's scene. She aided me in constructing one of my itineraries, and by 'aiding me' I really mean that she took my plan, marked everything off, and said go here, not there! This is priceless, and I couldn't be more thrilled! How often are you able to really get a solid plan from someone with that level of intel?

The Barcelona Guide

What to See, Do, Eat, and Drink in Barcelona

Recently, I've tried hard to visit new destinations instead of repeating cities, but I can't help but return to Barcelona! It's one of my beloved European destinations! With any bit of research, you'll quickly discover it's the pickpocketing capital of Europe, but with a little diligence you'll be just fine so don't be detoured by this.

I'm of the philosophy that you need to get outside of the big cities to experience a country's genuine culture. While diversity is a beautiful and fantastic thing, it can dilute or distract from a city's culture or identity. This isn't the case in Barcelona. It a major city but is rich with the Catalan culture and is full of pride.

There's a lot to do in this city, and it's a bit spread out. I absolutely love walking through these streets! You get to see, hear, and smell things you otherwise wouldn't experience. Seeing the dark alleyways, smelling the street food or shops of Jamon when walking by is a big part of the feel. When trying to conquer this city on foot, I tend to walk around 12km (8-miles) per day in Barcelona. If you are limited on time or don't feel like walking everywhere, the taxis are affordable, and there's an available underground metro system to move you quickly around Barcelona.

You may want to favorite this article because it may become a bit static and be updated with each visit! I just can't stay away!

Where To Stay

Hotel Bagués

Las Ramblas 105, 08002 Barcelona

Hotel Bagués is an incredible little 5-star boutique hotel on Las Ramblas in the famous Gothic Quarter neighborhood. The hotel staff is incredible and hospitable. We were greeted with smiling faces, stories of the building's history, and of course - a glass of cava! The staff's kindness and assistance made the stay an absolute 5-star experience.

The hotel has only 31 rooms and suites so if you plan to call Bagués home during your stay, plan in advance. Additional hotel features included a swimming pool, gym, sauna, and the gorgeous rooftop pool and lounge with views of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter.

Also included in your stay: a delicious set of handmade chocolates, daily purified water, free stocked mini-bar, and entrance to the Egyptian Museum of Barcelona.

What To Do and See

Sagrada Familía
This basilica is arguably the crown jewel of Antoni Gaudí's work. The construction of this masterpiece began in 1882, 137-years ago. The first year of work was under architect Francisco de Paula del Villar. After he resigned, Gaudí took over and applied his extraordinary style to future plans. He spent the rest of his life dedicated to this project and is buried in the basilica's crypt today.
Buy tickets ahead of time because these are often sold out. The tickets are time-specific, and the process is incredibly organized. We were in Sagrada Familia for at least 30-45 minutes.
Park Güell
This gem is another Antoni Gaudí and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO IN 1984. While it's a bit outside of the heart of Barcelona, it's still incredibly busy and popular. If you want to have full park access, you will need your tickets ahead of time; otherwise, there will be a long wait. If you plan to visit Sagrada Família you can get a combined ticket that will give you entry to Gaudí’s home which is just outside of the restricted area.
We opted to walk around the unrestricted areas because there is currently a renovation in the 'monumental area.' Half of the deck area is under renovation. If you want the ever so popular IG shot, yes it's possible, but there are a lot of people, and you may want to get there early. It's a fantastic display of Gaudí's work, and I will visit again once the renovation is complete.
La Catedral
If you want to be absolutely in awe of the classic Gothic architecture, this is an absolute Must-See. Barcelona Cathedral, or The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, was built from 1298 to 1420. The central tower was constructed in 1913.
The cathedral is dedicated to Eulalia of Barcelona, a co-patron saint of Barcelona. The body of Saint Eulalia is in the cathedral's crypt. Buy tickets here.
Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar
In the heart of the Gothic Quarter, you'll find this fantastic church. Locals will often recommend this particular church as the most beautiful in Barcelona, especially in times of the day when light shines through the stained glass. An additional plus is that entry is free before 1:00 PM and after 5:00 PM, with entry at only 5 euro in between.
Casa Batlló
There are various ways to experience Casa Batlló. We were not able to get in but will feature this in the future. Clearly also designed by Antoni Gaudí, Casa Batlló was built in 1904 as his variation of a previously built home. The exterior features very few straight lines. The design of the roof is unlike any other and also features a turret and cross, said to represent the lance of Saint George, the patron saint of Catalonia.
Museu Picasso
A visit to Barcelona simply is incomplete for art lovers without a visit to Museo Picasso! This museum features over 4,000 works of the infamous Spanish artist. It opened in March of 1963 and was the first dedicated solely to his work and the only one to open during his lifetime.
I wasn't a big Picasso fan until we watched the 2017 National Geographic's 'Genius' series on Pablo Picasso. Learning more about him and his experiences allowed me to better understand and connect with his work.

Where To Eat

It should come as no surprise that a major European city like this would have notable dining options, but I remain impressed by the variety and level of quality that Barcelona offers.

My visits have been on weekends, so we have not yet been able to visit Distructar, the #9 Top50 Restaurant in the World, or Tickets, the #20. These are on everyone's radar though so if you can get in and it works, go for it! I'd love to visit at some point. However, I really like the lower-key food scene in Barcelona and feel it better speaks to the cities culture for first-time visitors.

Don't buy into the dining options on Las Ramblas. It's overpriced and just too touristy. It's an easy option, but it's nothing compared to the more authentic choices.

Llamber

Carrer de la Fusina 5, 08003 Barcelona

Venture through the Gothic Quarter and to Llamber for lunch or dinner. Llamber is consistently plating fresh and delicious options. Seeking great wine or artfully crafted cocktails? This is your spot! I love Llamber for the late evening vibe and the friendly staff!

Start out with local Catalan meats and cheeses and then enjoy amazing dishes like beetroot carpaccio, black rice with baby cuttlefish, roasted octopus, and my personal fav - the Iberian pork confit with sweet potato fritters and mini carrots.

Pez Vela

Passeig del Mare Nostrum 19, 08039 Barcelona

If you're after an excellent vibe and excellent food, make reservations ahead of time at Pez Vela! This seaside spot has an energetic buzz and features an eclectic interior. The feel can change seasonally, but we had an early fall visit with a rain shower, so we weren't able to enjoy the outside dining, but there was a beautiful fire inside. It was fantastic!

Start out with their sangria while enjoying the views! While they offer a variety of dishes, we kept it classic and were thrilled with the spread. They have excellent paella, charbroiled Galician-style octopus over potatoes, spicy potatoes, ham croquettes, cocoa bread with tomato and more!

Robata

Carrer d’Enric Granados 55, 08008 Barcelona

I know what you're thinking… Sushi in Barcelona? Yes! I want you to trust me on this one. I know that you're craving all of the Patatas Bravas you can handle, but Robata is a must-visit for us. There will be plenty of time for Spanish fare!

The chefs at Robata are creating some of the best sushi I've experienced. Easily a top 3 sushi for me if not the greatest. Can't miss selections include the Frisky, Nikkei, Venice, and Redondo Beach rolls. I haven't traveled to NYC in quite some time, but this could be some of the best cheesecake I've eaten!

Robata offers an extensive wine selection as well as beers and cocktails. For me, this is an easy one and went with a bottle of white wine. If you want an excellent Spanish white, I recommend Verdejo with Sushi. My friend would be mad to know that I went with a white from France's Bourgogne region!

Casa Lolea

Carrer de Sant Pere Més Atl 49, 08003 Barcelona

This is one of those locations that you typically visit on repeated visits! It's classic, it's affordable, and the staff is incredible. Smiling faces and perfectly cooked octopus - I'm a happy guy!

A few 'must-have' dishes at Casa Lolea would be the Coca Bread with Tomato, Patatas Bravas, Steak Tartare, Salmon Blinis, and the Jamón Iberico. They are known for their Sangria - I recommend Red! They also have specials that are constantly updating. If they offer pulpo (octopus) definitely take advantage!

El Nacional

Passeig de Gracia, 24 Bis 08007 Barcelona

Here you'll find a nice variety of options all under one roof. This 19th-century factory has been renovated and is now a space for multiple restaurants and a bit of market space all in one spot! Fancy oysters and champagne after your flight? This is an excellent remedy! If you are with a group and one specific target won't work, everyone is sure to find something from these four restaurants and four bars by Passeig de Gràcia.

Satan’s Coffee Corner

Gran Via 700, 08010 | or | Arc de Sant Ramon del Call 11, Barri Gótic 08002

Odd name yet hellishly good coffee. I'm sure that's been said before, but it's true. We stopped in here by recommendation and were extremely pleased! They have a water filtration system that 'remineralizes' the water, adjusting the pH and alkaline to match the need for their specific coffee.