The top 17 things you can't miss in Barcelona
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Loading... - Justina Rodriguez
- 24 Mar 2023
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Sagrada Família is one of the most popular attractions in all of Spain © Jordi Salas / Getty Images
Barcelona is Spain's most visited city, and it's not hard to see why – the historic capital of Catalonia is packed with galleries, museums, attractions and thriving restaurants.
Set between the mountains and sea, the city is celebrated for its unique architecture, famous artists and urban beaches. Here are the best things to do in Barcelona when you get there.
1. Visit the Sagrada Família
Almost every city has at least one landmark that you simply can’t miss, and the Sagrada Família is Barcelona’s. Antoni Gaudí’s magnificent masterpiece has been under construction for more than 130 years, and it’s still not finished.
Far from a construction site, however, the church features two grand facades studded with intricate stone carvings, towers that gleam with gem-like tiles and an interior filled with tree-like columns soaring up toward the canopy ceiling. Before the pandemic forced a pause, the building was expected to be completed in time for the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death in 2026, but that date has now been pushed back, though construction has resumed.
Planning tip: The Sagrada Família is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain, and it can get very busy. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning (it opens at 9am) on a weekday.
2. See more of Gaudí’s designs
The Sagrada Família may be the most famous of Gaudí’s buildings, but all his wonderful whimsical designs are worth visiting. The most well-known are Casa Batlló, with its iridescent dragon-like scales and skull and bone-like balconies, and La Pedrera, with its undulating stone façade and fanciful chimneys. Some of his lesser-known but equally beautiful buildings include Casa Vicens, the first house he ever designed; Palau Güell, which he designed for his patron Eusebi Güell; and the Torre Bellesguard. Read More…
