Barcelona, a city full of culture, history, and breathtaking architecture. A city that has something for everyone – enjoy art, delicious food, and glamorous culture. If you’re looking for an action-packed itinerary for 3 days in Barcelona with everything the city offers, this is the ultimate guide for you!
Barcelona is certainly a world-class city worth three days of exploration and fun. To help you along your adventure, I’ve compiled a detailed travel itinerary that will satisfy your wanderlust when spending 3 days in Barcelona.
Ready to spend a few days in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities? Let’s get started, I can’t wait to cover everything!
3 Days in Barcelona Itinerary – Overview
- Day 1 – La Rambla, Gothic Quarter, La Boqueria
- Wander Around La Rambla
- La Boqueria
- Discover the Gothic Quarter
- Arc de Triomf and Parc de la Cuitadella
- Take a Las Golondrinas Boat Tour
- Day 2 – Gaudi Sites and Mount Tibidabo
- Discover Sagrada Familia
- Explore Park Güell
- Casa Batllo
- Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
- Head to Mount Tibidabo
- See the Magic Fountain at Night
- Day 3 – Day Trip From Barcelona
- OPTION 1: Take a Day Trip to Montserrat
- OPTION 2: Girona and Costa Brava Day Trip
- Visit the Chocolate Museum
- Sunset at Barceloneta Beach
- Go to a Football Match at Camp Nou
Day 1 – La Rambla, Gothic Quarter, La Boqueria
The first place to visit on your 3-day Barcelona itinerary is known as the “Old City” due to its history. The architecture is from another world and the uses of the buildings and squares are seasoned with age and stories to tell.
On this Barcelona itinerary day 1, you’ll love being whisked away to something unfamiliar yet so attractive.
With La Rambla full of shops, restaurants, street performers, and the Gothic Quarter, the oldest part of the city, I’m sure you’ll have the best first day in Barcelona, Spain.
Wander Around La Rambla
La Rambla, also called Las Ramblas, is Barcelona’s most famous street, and for a good reason. Stretching for over a kilometer, it is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, and is a favorite gathering place for locals and tourists.
From your B&B or hotel, get transportation to La Rambla harbor front and get a feel for the deep roots this place has to offer with the Mediterranean. This is the most important promenade in Barcelona, and you’ll quickly understand why. There is no end to the things you can taste, see, touch and smell.
First, start at the top of La Rambla and work your way down. This will help you get your bearings and avoid getting lost in the side streets. Second, take your time and savor the sights and sounds of the street. There’s no need to hurry – this is a place to meander and take in the atmosphere.
And finally, don’t forget to stop for a refreshment at one of the many cafes along the way. A coffee or a glass of sangria is the perfect way to rest your feet and people-watch before continuing on your journey.
I recommend having a tasty “living history” break at the 140-year-old family-run cafe Granje Viader. The classic combination of churros and chocolate will get you feeling perky and ready to explore more of Las Ramblas.
That being said, it’s worth noting that Las Ramblas gets very crowded, especially during the weekend, so get ready for that.
READ MORE: 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Spain
La Boqueria
La Boqueria Market in Barcelona is not an ordinary open-air food market. Expect throngs of people and multiple stalls showing off their best food products.
It is considered one of the best in Europe due to its seasonal foods, high-quality ingredients, and consistent freshness that even restauranteurs shop there very frequently.
The market can be a bit of a sensory overload. Therefore, it is best to come in the morning to avoid the day’s heat.
Buy some fruit to snack on as a way to refresh your palate, or snack your way to any restaurant, cafe, or bar and dive into Spanish delicacies. If time allows, stop by El Quim de la Boqueria, famed for its fried eggs and ham croquettes served with well-prepared squid.
Once satisfied, get going to the next part of the 3-day Barcelona itinerary.
Discover the Gothic Quarter
Discover the Gothic Quarter and forget all about the modern world. The narrow alleyways and squares tell the story of the medieval Barcelona that once was. Explore the churches, houses of the viceroyalty, and palaces scattered throughout this very attractive site.
The streets are arranged in squares, making them easy to navigate. There is the “political square” Sant Jaume, which is the site of the Town Hall, and the Palau de la Generalitat, the seat of the Catalan Regional Government.
Then there is the el Rei and la Reial square showing off their finest architectural styles. Nearby, you will find the Palau Reial Major (a part of the old Roman wall), the Palau del Lloctinent (the Deputy’s Palace), and the City History Museum.
For added beauty, expect to find a gorgeous square leading to numerous cafes and bars, which get very busy in the evening.
There is also the Jewish square with its narrow streets guiding you to what remains of the former Synagogue. Nearby there is the church of Santa Maria del Pi and Sant Just y Pastor.
The Roman Necropolis (Villa de Madrid square), which is a little way off, harkens to a time when the neighborhood was the heart of Barcelona during Roman times. Through a guided tour, you will see the remains of the Roman temple of Augustus.
Arc de Triomf and Parc de la Cuitadella
Barcelona is a beautiful city with many wonderful sights to see. two of the most popular attractions are the Arc de Triomf and Parc de la parc de Ciutadella. The Arc de Triomf is a large monument built in 1888 to commemorate the Universal Exhibition held in Barcelona that year.
The Parc de la Ciutadella is a large park located in the city center. It is home to a number of different attractions, including a zoo, a botanical garden, and an aquarium. Both of these attractions are must-sees for any traveler to Barcelona.
And while you’re here, I recommend passing by Passeig de Gràcia, the most luxurious avenue in Barcelona. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s always a nice walk after discovering Parc de la Ciutadella.
Take a Las Golondrinas Boat Tour
From 6 pm onwards, enjoy an early Tapas dinner, then take a Las Golondrinas Boat Tour for €8 to wind down after a stunning day in Barcelona.
The Las Golondrinas boat tour offers a unique perspective on Barcelona, with views of the skyline, the beaches, and the harbor. The tour takes place on an authentic Spanish galleon, and you’re treated to the views of the beaches of Barceloneta and Port Vell.
The tour is also interactive, with guides who share stories and facts about Barcelona’s history and culture.
Overall, Las Golondrinas is an affordable way to see Barcelona from a different perspective, and it’s an experience you won’t forget, and you can’t skip it while spending 3 days in Barcelona.
Day 2 – Gaudi Sites and Mount Tibidabo
Ready for your Barcelona itinerary day 2?
On day one, the sites explored were part of the “Old City,” so then, on day two, it’s time to discover the ”modernism” of Barcelona.
Today will be a day of contrasts, as you explore the world of Antoni Gaudi before heading up to the summit of Mount Tibidabo for breathtaking views over the city. The first stop is La Sagrada Familia and then Parc Güell, where Gaudi’s playful imagination is on full display.
Let me tell you everything you should know for the perfect day in the most impressive areas of Barcelona.
Discover Sagrada Familia
Gaze upon the Sagrada Familia and all its majestic beauty. The iconic Basilica is built as a hallowed place of worship and yet, fused with the creative ambitions of prolific Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi.
Located in the Eixample district of Barcelona, it is currently the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world.
The building started in 1888 and is expected to be completed after 2026. Antoni Gaudi’s vision mixed Gothic Revival, Art Nouveau, and Modernism. Its splendor and complexity have earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site status; therefore, expect thousands of tourists here.
You best be an early bird and catch that fat worm. The Basilica is a little outside the city center. Therefore, I recommend planning the transportation ahead.
At La Sagrada Familia, the queues can get so long that endless tourists get denied every day. And for this reason, I highly recommend booking your ticket in advance.
You can also find guided tours of the Sagrada Familia and get to skip the line, which is definitely a bonus when visiting the church.
READ MORE: Sagrada Familia Tour Complete Guide
Explore Park Güell
Explore Park Güell after visiting the Sagrada Familia Basilica and see the range of Antonio Gaudi’s talents. Get playful in the gardens and the two houses that harmoniously merge with their environment.
This Unesco World Heritage Site is one impressive place to visit in Barcelona, Spain, and is definitely one of the most famous places in the country.
The park supports a wide variety of wildlife, notably several of the non-native species of parrot found in the Barcelona area. Other birds can be seen from the park, with records including the short-toed eagle. The park also supports a healthy population of hummingbird hawk moths.
Note that Park Güell is not the same as Palau Güell, which is a palace in Las Ramblas. So if you’re taking a taxi, make sure to get to the right one.
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is the next Antonio Gaudi wonder to see. What is marvelous is the few straight lines in the buildings’ structure. You can enjoy the view from outside or buy tickets online in advance to take in the beauty inside as well.
The façade is decorated with colorful tiles and sculpted stone, and the interior is equally unique, with curved walls and stained glass windows.
Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
After Casa Batlló, located at Passeig de Gracia is Gaudí’s Casa Mila, also known as La Pedrera. Casa Mila is a sleek Art Nouveau masterpiece with sweeping lines and graceful curves.
The façade of the apartments is an impressive thing of beauty. It resembles a mountain and the sea merging with each other, as does the landscape of Barcelona.
A ticket to Casa Milà unlocks a lot of perks, such as rooftop access with unending views of the city, a guided museum tour of Gaudi’s work, and a model of the apartments’ interior. What else do you need when spending 3 days in Barcelona?
Head to Mount Tibidabo
After a busy morning exploring these amazing sites, take the cable car up to Mount Tibidabo and its amusement park for a truly magical experience. The mountain is the tallest of the Serra de Collserola range, standing at an impressive 1,679 ft (512m) tall.
Go play at the oldest amusement park in Spain and get in one of the first rides constructed in the park, El Avio (the Plane). From El Avio, move on to the Museum of Automatons, a charming area in the park that features over 40 nineteenth and twentieth-century gadgets.
See the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor (the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus) next, which sits at the summit of the mountain. Start at the ruins of a primitive shrine dedicated to the temple and finish off by taking the elevator to the top of the church for a magnificent view of Barcelona.
Two more must-see sites are the Torre de Collserola and L’Observatori Fabra. Torre de Collserola is a tower built for the 1992 Summer Olympics and is currently the highest viewpoint in Barcelona, standing at 946 ft (288m) tall. Its observation deck is located on the tenth floor, where you can observe the city, the Mediterranean sea, and all its beauty.
L’Observatori Fabra is an astronomical observatory that has been investigating astronomy, seismology, and meteorology for the past 100 years. During your tour, take in all the discoveries that have come from this observatory and the contributions it has made throughout its usage.
All in all, visiting Mount Tibidabo is a must when spending 3 days in Barcelona.
See the Magic Fountain at Night
Looking for a magical evening experience in Barcelona? Look no further than the Magic Fountain!
Located in front of the National Palace, the Magic Fountain is an iconic landmark to see when spending 3 days in Barcelona. The Magic Fountain puts on an incredible light and water show set to music – how cool is that?
The best time to see it is at night when the lights are shining their brightest. Trust me, it’s an unforgettable experience. Just be sure to dress warmly – it can get chilly standing around outside waiting for the show to start!
Day 3 – Day Trip From Barcelona
The last part of your 3-day Barcelona itinerary is the cherry on the cake, and if you’ve visited the coolest parts, like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, you’ll now want to take a trip and explore Catalunia.
Day Three is all about indulging your senses and taking it all in. Start with visual stimulation on top of Montserrat or Girona, then later tickle your taste buds with decadent chocolate.
Soothe your soul with the warm sun and the gentle sea by the beach, and afterward, excite your heart with a classic football match Barcelona style. Let’s jump into the details.
OPTION 1: Take a Day Trip to Montserrat
Take a day trip to Montserrat and see the countryside, the Santa Maria de Montserrat Monastery, and one of the few Black Madonnas in Europe.
Montserrat is a popular day trip due to its importance, with many making a religious pilgrimage to it. You can hike or take cable car rides on the jagged “saw mountain.” The best way
The best way to get to Montserrat is to join a day tour from Barcelona. You have 2 options – half-day and full-day tours, and I recommend taking the whole day to make the most of it.
Once you’re back in Barcelona, head over to the main Beach or the Chocolate Museum to end the day on a nice note!
READ MORE: Day Trip to Montserrat Complete Guide
OPTION 2: Girona and Costa Brava Day Trip
Barcelona is a terrific place to visit, with its vibrant culture, delicious food, and beautiful architecture. However, Girona is a hidden gem in Catalunia that you should seriously consider when planning a trip.
You’ll get picked up from your hotel and taken to the stunning town of Girona as well as Costa Brava.
Stroll around the cobbled streets, take in medieval architecture, and take fantastic shots of a more historical side of Spain.
After that, you’ll discover Costa Brava de Catalunya, the Catalan Coast, with green mountains, white architecture all over, and stunning beaches you won’t forget anytime soon.
Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or just a chance to relax, Girona makes an ideal day trip from Barcelona.
Panoramic view of Cadaques in the morning, Costa Brava, Catalonia, Spain
Visit the Chocolate Museum
If you opted for a half-day trip from Barcelona or just relaxed at your hotel, then I recommend visiting the Chocolate Museum.
Visit the Chocolate Museum, which has a warm greeting from a massive white chocolate ape named Snowy. Here you show a chocolate bar given to you for admission. This museum details the history of chocolate, from its Latin American origins to its introduction and subsequent evolution in Europe.
Feast your eyes on the chocolate sculptures of some famous cultural icons such as Minnie Mouse, Louis Armstrong, Spanish architecture, and the Sagrada Familia, one of Gaudi’s famous houses and creatures from Parc Guell.
The intricate chocolate sculptures are not for public consumption (pun intended) however, what makes this museum top-notch is that you can taste the early Mayan and Aztec blends of “Xocoatl” to the current version of chocolate.
The museum is accessible from Jaume I stop on the Barcelona Metro.
Sunset at Barceloneta Beach
Barceloneta beach is perfect for refreshing yourself. This classic neighborhood in the Ciutat Vella district by the sea is the place to be. People come to eat fish and seafood dishes and “tapas” while relaxing by the shorefront.
There is a lot to do, such as going to the gymnastics area and playing beach volleyball, beach tennis, or competitive table tennis.
Those who are disabled are well accommodated for, with installations that include a bathing support service. Its purpose is to help low mobility and disabled persons in and out of the water so that they can enjoy bathing in the sea, using, if necessary, an amphibious chair.
Barcelona’s beaches are currently smoke-free spaces therefore, smoking is prohibited on the beach.
Go to a Football Match at Camp Nou
There’s nothing quite like a football match at Camp Nou when taking a trip to Barcelona. The atmosphere is electric, the fans are passionate, and the action on the pitch is always top-notch.
If you’re lucky enough to snag tickets to a match, be prepared for an unforgettable experience.
Camp Nou is home to one of the most successful teams in Europe, FC Barcelona. Live the best soccer experience you can imagine:
The chants and cheers echo around the stadium, and the whole place is engulfed in a sea of blue and red. Even if you’re not a huge football fan, it’s impossible not to get caught up in the excitement.
Of course, there’s more to Camp Nou than just the football. The stadium itself is a work of art, and it’s definitely worth exploring even if there’s no match going on. Take a tour of the facilities, check out the museum, and soak up the history of one of the most iconic stadiums in the world.
Tips When Visiting Barcelona
When you stay in Barcelona in 3 days, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of it – for transportation, to save money, and more. Let me tell you everything you need when taking a trip to Barcelona.
Get the Hop On Hop Off Bus
While it’s definitely possible to spend 3 days in Barcelona on your own, there’s no need to make things harder than they have to be. That’s why I recommend getting the Hop On Hop Off bus.
Not only will this save you time and energy, but it will also give you a chance to sit back and relax while taking in the different sights.
Plus, you’ll get an up-close and personal look at all the major attractions, including the Sagrada Familia, the Picasso Museum, the Gothic Quarter, and Park Güell.
Save Money with the Barcelona Card
If you really want to make the most of your 3 days in Barcelona, there’s one essential item you’ll need to purchase: the Barcelona Card.
This handy little card gives you free entry into all of Barcelona’s best attractions and free transportation in the city. Plus, it comes with a handy map of the city, so you’ll never get lost.
On top of that, you’ll get an audiobook in 6 different languages. Can you think of a better way to save money in Barcelona?
Book Your Tickets in Advance
3 days in Barcelona isn’t much, despite giving you enough time to see the main attractions. And for this reason, you will want to buy tickets online for the main attractions.
The lines can get very long, and it’s not worth spending hours in line when you could be enjoying the city. Second, be prepared for the crowds. Barcelona is a popular destination, and some attractions often refuse guests as no spots are left.
So when planning your Barcelona itinerary, always book your tickets and day tours in advance.
Get to Las Ramblas Early
That’s right, go to Las Ramblas early as it gets crowded quickly, and you’ll want to be able to enjoy the atmosphere without being jostled by the crowds.
When you’re there, don’t miss the chance to try some of the local food. Tapas are a must; you can find some great restaurants near Las Ramblas.
While you’re here, take a stroll through Ciutat Vella, the old city center. It’s full of charming narrow streets and interesting architecture. Plus, the Gothic Quarter is around the corner, and it’s a stunning place to visit.
Get Outside of Barcelona
Barcelona is a beautiful city, but it can be quite crowded and touristy. If you want to escape the crowds and experience some of the best Catalonia offers, I recommend getting outside of Barcelona.
Montserrat and Girona are both lovely towns that are worth a visit. And if you really want to get away from it all, take a day trip that combines Costa Brava. With its dramatic coastline and quiet villages, Costa Brava is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the Catalan countryside.
So when spending 3 days in Barcelona, be sure to venture outside the city limits and explore some of the Gems of Catalonia. You won’t be disappointed!
Getting Around Barcelona
Barcelona is a very big city, which can make getting around a bit challenging. Thankfully, there are a few options for getting around Barcelona.
Hop On Hop Off Bus
Barcelona’s public transport system is extensive and efficient, but the Hop On Hop Off bus is by far the best option. The bus has two routes – one covers the city center, and the other covers the waterfront – and you can hop on and off as many times as you like.
Tickets are valid for 24 or 48 hours, and you can also upgrade to include a Catamaran cruise tour. The buses run every 15 minutes, so you can easily explore Barcelona at your own pace.
Metro and Tram
Barcelona has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including a metro (subway/underground), bus, and tram network. The cheapest way to get around the city is by using a combination of these modes of transport.
The metro is the fastest way to get around, but it only covers a limited city area. The bus network covers a larger area but can be slow during rush hour. The tram is the best option for getting around the city center, as it covers most of the major tourist attractions. It is also relatively fast and efficient.
By Bike
Barcelona is a great city to explore by bike. With its flat terrain and mild climate, it’s easy to get around on two wheels. Plus, there are plenty of bike lanes and pathso you can avoid traffic. And if you get tired, you can always hop on the metro or take a bus. So why not ditch your car and explore Barcelona by bike? You’ll save money on gas and parking, and you’ll get to see the city in a whole new way.
By Taxi
While they’re pretty expensive, taxis are another great and fast way of getting around the city, especially when spending only 3 days in Barcelona.
They can be hailed from the street or ordered by Uber. The downside is that they can be hard to find during rush hour and on weekends when demand is high.
It is also important to note that some taxis in Barcelona do not use meters, so be sure to agree on a price before getting in. Needless to say, if you take a taxi from the airport, there will be an additional charge for a surcharge.
3-Day Barcelona Itinerary – FAQs
What is the Best time to visit Barcelona?
The best time to visit Barcelona is during the summertime, which runs from late April till early August. This ample time allows you to partake in all the outdoor activities, including going to the beach.
However, if you want to visit the best sites, like Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló or Las Ramblas, then March to May and September till November are great due to the fewer tourists and shorter lines.
How to get around Barcelona?
Most public transportation opens around 5 am and closes around 2 am. Always make sure to check the schedule before leaving.
The metro, tram, and train systems are efficient, which is awesome when you have only 3 days in Barcelona. There is a five-minute wait till the next one. However, you will be underground and will not get to site-see as you go to and fro different destinations.
The bus is another option that lets you see the city and is safer than the metro. Buses can be slow, especially in peak hours. Taxis are another great alternative, too but they are a bit more expensive.
Tourist buses are available and come with numerous perks, such as free wifi, interactive guides, panoramic views of the city, direct stops at tourist attractions, and more. But these are strictly scheduled and may not show you the hidden gems you want to see.
Lastly, there is the rent-a-car, rent-a-scooter, rent-a-bike, or walking. The biggest benefit is that you move at your own pace (fast or slow), and you can park anywhere (except for cars).
How Many Days to Stay in Barcelona?
Some say a week in Barcelona is ideal, while others may say three. What matters is what is ideal for you. This 3-day Barcelona itinerary covers everything you need to see in the city, but if you can spread it over a few more days, that would still be great.
How to Get from Barcelona Airport to the City?
Getting from Barcelona Airport is very straightforward. The public shuttle from the airport to nearby hotels is always the first option. If not, then catching a taxi to where you will be staying is an alternative.
How to Get from Barcelona Airport to the City?
Getting from Barcelona Airport is very straightforward. The public shuttle from the airport to nearby hotels is always the first option. If not, then catching a taxi to where you will be staying is an alternative.
More Spain Travel Guides
- 15 Unique Places To Visit In Spain
- 10 Best Montserrat Tours From Barcelona
- 7 Best Sagrada Familia Tours in Barcelona
- Mount Tibidabo in Barcelona – Ultimate Guide
More City Itineraries
- The Perfect 3-Day Bangkok Itinerary
- The Perfect Florence 3-Day Itinerary
- Plan the Perfect 3-Day Athens Itinerary in 2023
- 3 Days in Rome: Plan the Best Rome Itinerary
Conclusion
Barcelona is the perfect city for a long weekend getaway. With so much to see and do, you’ll never be bored when staying 3 days in Barcelona.
By following this itinerary, you’ll make the most of your time in Barcelona, Spain, and come away with wonderful memories.
