Do you have 3 days in Barcelona? This detailed itinerary provides the top stops and information during your 3-day stay.
Barcelona is the capital city of Spain’s Catalonia Region. It is the second most populated city in the country, next to Madrid!
3 or 4 days in Barcelona make an incredible leaping-off point for a combined itinerary with Andalucia or even Portugal!
The top things to do during a 3-day Barcelona itinerary include: exploring Gaudi architectural art like Park Güell, Casa Mila, and La Sagrada Familia, eating at La Boqueria, and wandering the city’s old historic center.
Additional activities like day trips to mountainous Montserrat or beach towns in Costa Brava can easily be added to your itinerary.
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Day 1: Gaudi Wonders
La Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous churches in all of Spain. It was designed by Gaudi in 1883.
The church is still under construction today, with an estimated completion date of 2026. It is estimated to have 18 towers by this time.
The project is mostly funded by private donations and ticket sales.
Portions of the church have received the UNESCO World Heritage Site honor!
Millions of visitors around the world make it to La Sagrada Familia every year! Purchase timed entry tickets online in advance before your visit.
Picnic Lunch at La Ciutadella Park
La Ciutadella Park is one of the most popular green spaces in Barcelona. Its nearly 70 acres also make it one of the biggest!
There is no shortage of spots to settle in for a picnic lunch.
Some of the most notable spots in the park are its famous fountain, Cascada Monumental, and a small recreational lake. Consider renting a rowboat or simply taking a leisurely stroll.
From its domed arches to bubbles floating through the air, it’s a Barcelona Instagram spot waiting to happen.
Important note: This top tourist spot can get real crowded. Plan accordingly.
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló was another home designed by Gaudi. It is known for its colorful exterior and unique architectural details.
Take a tour inside to see the beautiful stained glass windows, mosaic floors, and intricate designs.
If anything, make sure you at least swing past the outside to admire its purple and turquoise architecture. Known for color and style, Gaudi did it again!
Casa Mila
This Gaudi UNESCO World Heritage Site features architecture in the shape of swirls, sprinkled with iron, gothic balconies.
Like the rest of his work, it’s another whimsical wonder of Barcelona.
From rooftop to views to local art exhibitions, Casa Mila exploration awaits.
Tip: Casa Mila also offers night tours. This is a great option if you don’t have time to visit during the day, or you are looking for something different to do at night!
Day 2: Classic Barcelona
Park Güell
Park Güell is one of the very best things to do in Barcelona and one of the most popular ways to explore Gaudi’s architecture!
It was officially declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984.
It is most famous for its colorful, mosaic works of art. The most popular spot in the entire park is also one of the best Instagram spots in Barcelona– the serpentine bench at the top of a huge terrace, overlooking the city.
Visiting Park Güell is essential on any Barcelona itinerary, even if you only have one day in Barcelona.
Tip: It gets crowded here, and fast! I recommend reserving your entrance tickets as soon as the park opens.
La Rambla
Following a delightful morning at the park, head over to La Rambla, the renowned city street!
Spanning nearly a mile, you don’t have to walk its entire length.
Get dropped off at the start of the street. Wander for a few blocks until you reach La Boqueria Market (about half a mile from the street’s start) for lunch!
La Boqueria
La Boqueria stands as a vast market at the heart of Barcelona, situated conveniently halfway along La Rambla.
With close to 500 stalls, visitors can explore a variety of options ranging from food to drinks and souvenirs.
Indulge in a delicious selection and take your time! One highlight for me was the refreshing juice, priced at just 1 euro.
It was a tough choice, but I decided on the vibrant fuschia one, which turned out to be dragon fruit – absolutely delicious!
Gothic Quarter
Afterward, explore the historic heart of Barcelona, known as the Gothic Quarter. This area stood out to me the most in the whole city.
The meandering, narrow pathways exude a sense of deep-rooted history. This kind of classic, old-feel neighborhood is totally my vibe!
I loved just strolling around and browsing through the unique shops. However, there are plenty of other notable monuments and things to do in the Gothic Quarter.
Activities in the Gothic Quarter:
- Palau de la Musica Catalana
- Gothic Cathedral
- Wandering
Palau de la Musica Catalana holds a special place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Unfortunately, I missed the chance to attend a performance or join a guided exploration during my visit, but I truly enjoyed capturing the exterior of this architectural gem.
Many travelers suggest opting for a guided visit to explore its delightful interior. Access to most of the interior areas is limited without a tour or show ticket.
The Gothic Cathedral stands out as another lovely structure to admire externally, and there is no fee to wander inside the church.
Day 3: Barcelona Exploration or Day Trip
Your third and final day in Barcelona has two top options: continue exploring the top spots of the city you haven’t made it to the past two days, or escape the city bustle for a lovely day trip.
Option 1: Barcelona Exploring
Barceloneta Beach
Barceloneta Beach is located in the Barceloneta neighborhood and is easily accessible from the city center.
It is known for water sports, tons of restaurants and things to do along the boardwalk, and overall relaxation.
Lifeguard services are available at different times during the swimming season.
Click here for more information about safety and when lifeguards are on duty.
There is no cost to access the beach!
Barcelona Cathedral
Conveniently located within the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona Cathedral is surrounded by so much to see and do right in the middle of Barcelona’s oldest neighborhood.
Its architecture from the 13th – 15th century paired with panoramic views over Barcelona from the top makes for excellent photo opportunities!
Note: Be sure to dress respectfully when entering the cathedral.
Tibidabo
The theme park located on the highest point of Barcelona is an exciting activity.
Most recommended for families, there are tons of amusement park rides and activities, overlooking the incredible views of Barcelona. Some visitors come here to just check out the viewpoint.
But if you’re not planning on purchasing amusement park tickets, I recommend another viewpoint like Mountjuic.
Mountjuic
For another great viewpoint, take a cable car or the funicular train up to Mountjuic and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona.
It’s also home to several popular museums such as the Fundacio Joan Miro and Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC).
Option 2: Day Trip
There are tons of day trips to take from Barcelona. If you have longer, consider a Barcelona weekend trip!
- Costa Brava
- Montserrat
- Girona
- More Barcelona day and weekend trips
Costa Brava
Costa Brava is a beautiful coastal region in northeastern Spain, just north of Barcelona.
This area offers breathtaking beaches with crystal clear waters, charming small towns and villages, and stunning natural landscapes.
Some popular activities include hiking along the rugged coastline, exploring medieval villages, and indulging in delicious seafood cuisine.
Monserrat
Montserrat is a mountain range located about an hour outside of Barcelona.
It is home to a Benedictine abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat, which houses the famous Black Madonna statue.
Visitors can take a cable car or hike up the mountain for stunning views and explore the monastery.
Monserrat Tours:
Girona
Girona is a charming medieval city just over an hour away from Barcelona by train.
It is known for its well-preserved old town, colorful houses along the river, and its impressive cathedral.
Visitors can also walk along the city’s ancient walls for panoramic views.
Conclusion
Whether it’s the sandy shores of Barceloneta Beach, the Gothic architecture of Barcelona Cathedral, or exploring Barcelona street art, Barcelona delivers an unforgettable experience in just three days.
With a range of accommodations from boutique hotels to budget hostels, there is somewhere to stay for every travel style.
So pack comfortable shoes, a camera, and an appetite for fun—Barcelona awaits!
