Discover Two days in Barcelona – see the best places, attractions and monuments
If you are visiting Barcelona for just a very short stay, you can still see the best places around the city in just a few days and get enough satisfaction to seeing the main attractions around the city.. I’ve put together some of my favorite things to do and see around the city within Two days to visit this historic capital of the Catalan region.
In this two-day guide, we will showcase the best things to see around the city from the Gothic quarter or historic district, the Main boulevard or Las Ramblas then to the waterfront areas and then taking a cable car up to the castle and gardens up in Montjuic Mountain. I’ll share many more highlights and attractions in an easy to follow itinerary that is timed perfectly. You definitely should reserve attractions in advance so there is no real delay to your visit around the city.
A perfect two-day itinerary visiting Barcelona
Barcelona is the capital city of Catalan and filled with so many treasures to see. We will show you some of the most monumental places, squares and architecture from the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, the Cathedral, Placa Real, to the waterfront areas, taking a cable car to the castle and viewpoints of Montjuic to finally visiting Antoni Gaudi’s monumental Sagrada Familia.
Having visited Barcelona many times, I’m sharing this easy to follow itinerary to give you a quick outlook to visiting the best sites in the city in just one day.
Its good to have an early start in exploring the city and our first visit will be to Antoni Gaudi’s Guell Park which is a great place to explore and enjoy the expansive views of the city below and start the day off without all the crowds that typically come to visit this popular and busy park.
Visit Park Guell
Try to get to the park area early which opens up at 9:30am and you shouild book your reservations early to get reservations to visit first thing in the morning.
Park Guell. is a beautiful park with lush gardens, artistic creations and panoramic views of the city and skyline. Above the original cistern of the park are undulating and artistic mosaic benches with these amazing views. Originally planned as a luxury development with Modernist architect Antoni Gaudi, the project never took hold and the land was eventually gifted back to the city and created into a beautiful park for all to enjoy.
While visiting Gaudi’s park, you can explore many different parts of the park, walk around unique and artistic creations and admire the stunning views from the Undulating bench observation platform which originally sits above the developments cistern now an open architectural structure you can also explore underneath along with the Gaudi House Museum, the Landry Room Portico and the main monument and viewpoint area along with the various gardens to explore.
My advise is to get your ticket in advanced to get the early tickets to visiting
Barcelona: Park Guell Guided Tour with Skip The Line Entry
Again, get your ticket in advanced to get the early tickets to visiting
Skip-the-line Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau Private Tour
Designed by Gaudi in the 1870s and 1880s, construction started in 1882 and was less than 25% complete when Gaudi died in 1926. 98 years later and the cathedral is still under construction and is the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world. It is planned that it will be finished in 2026, to mark 100 years from Gaudi’s death – a fitting tribute.
You will need to book tickets in advance, and even then be prepared to queue, and pass through security scanners etc. It took me 1hr from arrival to entering the Cathedral so be warned.
Get your ticket in advanced to get the early tickets to visiting
Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia Priority Access Guided Tour
Lunch break at Sagrada area
You’ll find a lot of places around La Sagrada that caters to tourists and officering everything from typical traditional Catalan dishes, to more casual dining/bristro style to more international foods. You’ll have plenty of choices so you can easily find something to your liking and get served quickly so you can enjoy and continue touring the next location.
r
Casual and Local Eats
- La Paradeta Sagrada Familia – A seafood lover’s dream, this spot lets you pick fresh seafood and have it cooked to order.
- Los Bellota – A great place for authentic Spanish tapas and jamón ibérico, just a short walk from the basilica.
- Cal Marius 449 – Known for its pastrami sandwiches and gluten-free options, this small eatery offers a unique menu with Catalan influences.
Traditional Catalan Cuisine
- El Tastet de L’Artur – Serves up hearty Catalan dishes like grilled meats, seafood, and paella in a cozy setting.
- Casa Angela – A great place for paella and traditional Spanish cuisine with a prime view of La Sagrada Familia.
- Restaurant Singular – A hidden gem with well-prepared Catalan and Mediterranean dishes, perfect for a relaxed meal.
Trendy and Modern Dining
- Chill Bar Barcelona – A hip spot with a mix of tapas, burgers, and great cocktails.
- Manairo – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering an innovative take on Catalan cuisine, just a short walk away.
- Bristol Gastropub – Offers a variety of Mediterranean and Spanish dishes in a modern, stylish setting.
Vegetarian and Healthy Options
- The Green Spot – A chic vegetarian restaurant offering creative plant-based dishes.
- Vegan Bowls Barcelona – A great choice for fresh, healthy, and flavorful vegan food.
- Fa Patxoca – A vegetarian-friendly cafe with organic and locally sourced ingredients.
Whether you’re in the mood for classic tapas, seafood, or something more contemporary, there are plenty of great dining options near La Sagrada Familia!
Passeig de Gracia
You can catch the Metro L2 to visit Passeig de Gracia which gets you there in less than 10 minutes. This Major thoroughfare in the Gracia districts is filled with amazing moderisme and mixed architectural styles, boutique shops, restaurants and basically a more upscale neighborhood to walk around in. Enjoying the visits to the area, window shopping and enjoying the walk is part of the experience of visiting the Gracia district.
We will visit some more of the incredible architecture from Gaudi and visit around the various sites. The Gaudi buildings here are always busy, so it’s mandatory to make reservations ahead of time and you can enjoy both of these buildings both inside, above and all around the architecture.
Casa Batlllo
Gaudi’s colorful mosaic inspired home on Gracia is Casa Batllo, another one of his masterpieces designed in the Modernisme style in 1901. It’s a stunning building to see outside and also the interiors and beatiful stained glass, interior details and furnishings. I do recommend visiting this site later in the afternoon when most of the crowds have disappaited and looking for tapas and bar venues to hang out in the Gracia district.
If you want to visit the interiors of Casa Batllo, I recommend reserving your tickets well in advance and you can use the links below to buy and reserve your spot.
Barcelona: Casa Batlló Fast-Track Guided Tour
La Pedrera – Casa Mila
Gaudi’s large scale apartment complex is iconic with its undulating roofline and colorful chimney pots to explore. You can also visit a variety of apartments that are part of the living museum, some galleries that showcase photos and other collections and just admire all the interior and details of the complex.
La Pedrera along with Casta Batlo are both popular attractions to visit in Gracia so I would advise you to book your tickets well in advance to secure a visit to each site. Here are the booking details below.
Get your ticket in advanced to get the early tickets to visiting La Pedrera
Barcelona: Casa Milà Early-Morning Access Guided Tour
Visit Montjuic Hill + Castle and dinner at Port Viex (waterfront area)
To get to Montjuic, you can take an Uber or Taxi and take it directly to Montjuic. A good first stop is the Castle of Montjuic which was originally a fortress and used for many different purposes. Walking along the ramparts and visiting the interior of the castle will give you a good insight to visiting the historic site. When you walk around the ramparts, you’ll find some amazing views of the harbor, Port Vieux and the downtown skyline of Barcelona below.
Castle de Montjuic
Montjuïc Castle is a historic military fortress perched atop Montjuïc Hill in Barcelona, offering panoramic views of the city and coastline. Originally built in the 17th century to defend the city, the castle played a significant role in various conflicts, including the War of the Spanish Succession and the Spanish Civil War. Over the centuries, it has served as a military prison, execution site, and strategic lookout point. Today, the well-preserved fortress is open to visitors, featuring exhibitions on its history, impressive ramparts, and scenic walkways, making it a fascinating site to explore.
Check out these other posts on visiting Montjuic for inspiration
Mossen Costa i Llobera garden in Barcelona
Take the Montjuic Cable car to Port Vell
After touring Montjuic Castle and other attractions, you can easily catch the Cable Car or Telerific down to the harbor area of Port Vell. This fantastic cable car system and ride, will give you some of the stunning views from above to the harbor area, Barceloneta and beach areas beyind and the city skyline. This is a fantastic photo op moment so enjoy the one-way ride down to Port Vell.
Purchase tickets to the Cable Car system in advance here so you can have a seamless journey to your next destination.
Port Vell is the Old Port of Barcelona but modernized with marinas, shopping malls, an aquarium and the Time Out Barcelona marketplace and bars
Dinner experience at Time Out Barcelona or visit the restaurants and promenade at Barceloneta
This early evening you have a choice of exploring Barceloneta and the beach areas with a promenade filled with eateries or enjoy a delicious meal at the New Time out Location located at Port Vell and explore the marina, shopping center and dining at Time Out. You also have an option to strolling around the Barceloneta boardwalk area filled with restaurants and bars and a string of beaches in the area.
Choosing a delicious food venue at Time Out Barcelona
Check out the TIme Out Barcelona site here for a visit to this marketplace venue and seeing the various places worth a dinner experience.
Address: Moll d’Espanya, 5, 2nd floor, Ciutat Vella, 08039 Barcelona, Spain
Day two visiting Barcelona
We start the morning off at the main square of Placa de Catalunya and start of Las Ramblas and do a self tour or even an guided tour that we can recommend below.
Find your way down from the Place de Catalunya to the start of Las Ramblas here to start your self tour of the most visited street of Barcelona. You can visit many attractions to include the Palace of Music, the Old Gothic Quarter, Cathedral and you will find the old district many historic buildings and public squares to explore in the area.
Guided tours of Las Ramblas and Gothic Quarter
This visit to the most historic and cultural sites are worthwhile to have a knowledgeable guide that can showcase the importance of each site that will be visited. Here’s some recommendations of tours to text.
Barcelona: Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour
Barcelona: Jewish Quarter 2-Hour Walking Tour
Barcelona: El Born and Gothic Quarter Wine & Tapas Bar Tour
Las Ramblas Walk
Las Ramblas is Barcelona’s most famous boulevard, stretching for about 1.2 kilometers from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus Monument at the waterfront. Lined with trees, cafés, street performers, and kiosks selling everything from flowers to souvenirs, it’s a lively place both day and night. While it can get crowded with tourists, the energy is infectious, and there’s plenty to see, from the historic Liceu Theatre to the vibrant La Boqueria market. Whether you’re strolling, people-watching, or stopping for tapas, Las Ramblas offers a classic Barcelona experience—though it’s wise to watch out for pickpockets in the busy areas.
Visit to La Boqueria
The main marketplace in Barcelona is La Boqueria, officially known as Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria. Located along La Rambla, this historic market dates back to the 13th century and is one of the most famous food markets in the world. It offers a vibrant mix of fresh produce, seafood, meats, cheeses, and a wide variety of local and international delicacies. Visitors can sample traditional Catalan foods, such as jamón ibérico, fresh seafood, olives, and artisanal chocolates. Small bars and eateries inside serve delicious tapas, fresh juices, and authentic Spanish dishes, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. The market’s lively atmosphere, colorful stalls, and rich culinary heritage make it a must-visit destination in Barcelona.
Check out my post on visiting Mercat La Boqueria here for more inspiration
Palau de la Musica Catalana
The Palau de la Música Catalana in Barcelona is a stunning concert hall and a masterpiece of Catalan modernist architecture. Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner and completed in 1908, it is renowned for its intricate mosaics, stained glass, and elaborate sculptures that celebrate Catalan culture and music. The highlight of the interior is the grand concert hall, illuminated by a breathtaking stained-glass skylight that bathes the space in natural light. Hosting a variety of performances, from classical concerts to flamenco shows, the Palau remains a cultural gem of Barcelona. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a must-visit for architecture and music lovers alike.
Check out my post on visiting Palau de la Musica here for more inspiration
Gothic Quarter
You will find that the Gothic Quarter or old town of Barcelona to have most of this historic and cultural gems of the cith with the Barcelona Cathedral and Cloisters, Placa Reial, Roman Ruins, City Hall and other important architecture in the area. You can easily follow this map here for the important landmarks to visit in the Gothic Quarter. If you want to follow the audio track to download, you can do this easy self tour here for more details and information.
Barcelona Cathedral
Barcelona Cathedral, officially called the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, is a striking Gothic masterpiece located in the heart of the city’s Gothic Quarter. Constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries, it features an elaborate façade, soaring spires, and a beautifully crafted cloister. The cloister is home to a serene garden with 13 white geese, representing Saint Eulalia, Barcelona’s co-patron saint. Inside, visitors can admire the grand vaulted ceilings, intricate chapels, and exquisitely carved choir stalls. The rooftop provides breathtaking views of the city, making it a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Check out this special tour of Barcelona Cathedral below.
Barcelona Cathedral: Ticket, Guided Tour and VR Experience
Photo op at Carrer del Bisbe
Carrer del Bisbe is one of the most picturesque and iconic streets in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. This narrow, medieval passageway connects Plaça Nova and Plaça de Sant Jaume, weaving through historic buildings and creating an old-world charm. The highlight of the street is the Neo-Gothic bridge, known as the Pont del Bisbe, which elegantly arches over the walkway, adding to its mysterious allure. Built in 1928, the bridge features intricate stonework and a hidden skull carving, sparking local legends. Walking along Carrer del Bisbe, visitors are surrounded by stunning Gothic architecture, detailed facades, and a sense of stepping back in time, making it a must-see spot in the historic heart of Barcelona.
Plaça del Rei
Plaça del Rei is a historic square in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, surrounded by remarkable medieval structures that showcase the city’s rich heritage. At its heart is the Palau Reial Major, once the residence of Catalan counts and kings, featuring the Saló del Tinell, a grand hall where Christopher Columbus was welcomed by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella after his first voyage to the Americas. The square also houses the Chapel of Santa Àgata and the Museu d’Història de Barcelona, where visitors can explore Roman and medieval ruins beneath the city. With its well-preserved architecture and tranquil ambiance, Plaça del Rei offers a captivating look into Barcelona’s royal and medieval past.
Barcelona City Hall
Barcelona City Hall, known as Casa de la Ciutat, is a striking historic building in Plaça de Sant Jaume, the city’s political center. Originally built in the 14th century in Gothic style, it has been expanded over time, with its main façade showcasing neoclassical influences. Inside, visitors can admire the Saló de Cent, a grand medieval hall used for official ceremonies, along with an elegant staircase leading to the council chambers. Serving as the seat of Barcelona’s municipal government, the building remains a significant symbol of the city’s political and administrative legacy, frequently hosting public events and guided tours.
Temple of Augustus
The Roman Temple of Augustus in Barcelona is a striking relic of the city’s ancient history, tucked away in the Gothic Quarter. Built in the 1st century BC, it was dedicated to Emperor Augustus and once stood at the heart of the Roman city of Barcino. Today, four well-preserved Corinthian columns, adorned with intricate details, can be found within the Centre Excursionista de Catalunya’s medieval courtyard. Despite being surrounded by later medieval structures, these remains offer a fascinating glimpse into Barcelona’s Roman past, standing as a quiet yet powerful testament to the city’s rich and layered history.
Lunch Break at Placa Reial
After a busy tour of the historic Gothic Quarter and La Rambla and other attractions, its time to have lunch and relax a bit with a view of the a beautiful historical square called Place Reial.
Plaça Reial is a lively and elegant square in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, just off La Rambla. Known for its neoclassical architecture, it is lined with palm trees, arcaded walkways, and historic buildings that house restaurants, cafés, and bars. At its center, an ornate fountain called the Font de les Tres Gràcies is surrounded by lampposts designed by a young Antoni Gaudí. The square has a vibrant atmosphere, attracting both locals and visitors who come to enjoy its open-air terraces, street performances, and nightlife. With its blend of history, architecture, and energy, Plaça Reial remains one of the most charming and iconic gathering spots in Barcelona.
Places to eat around Placa Reial
It’s easy enough to walk around the square and check out the various restaurants and their menu del dia, here’s a quick overview:
1. Casual & Affordable Dining
- Les Quinze Nits – Traditional Catalan and Mediterranean dishes at reasonable prices.
- Glaciar – Classic tapas and drinks in a relaxed setting.
2. Tapas & Cocktails
- Ocaña – Stylish venue offering creative tapas and signature cocktails.
- Viana Barcelona – Small but highly rated for modern Spanish tapas.
3. Seafood & Paella
- MariscCo Reial – Specializes in fresh seafood and paella.
- Los Caracoles (nearby) – Famous for its roasted chicken and seafood dishes.
4. Fine Dining & Upscale Options
- Bodega Biarritz 1881 – Elegant setting with high-quality Spanish cuisine.
- Bistrot Levante – Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a refined touch.
Plaça Reial offers a mix of casual bites, traditional Spanish flavors, and upscale dining, making it a great place for any dining experience.
Parc de la Ciutadella
After a nice leisurely lunch you can enjoy a more relaxed and casual afternoon at Parc de la Ciutadella and explore the local attractions here.
Begin at the striking Arc de Triomf, before heading in to the city centre’s green space, Parc de la Ciutadella. The park is home to a number of worthwhile things to see and do – including a beautiful fountain, a number of greenhouses, the Natural History Museum and Barcelona Zoo. On a nice sunny day you can also go rowing around the little lake at the centre of the park.
Check out the Arc de triomf
The Arc de Triomf in Barcelona is a grand red-brick arch that served as the main entrance to the 1888 Universal Exposition held in Parc de la Ciutadella. Designed by architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, it stands out with its Moorish-inspired details and intricate reliefs that celebrate progress, industry, and the arts. Unlike other triumphal arches built for military victories, Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf symbolizes cultural and economic development. Located at the Passeig de Lluís Companys, it leads to a pedestrian promenade lined with palm trees and benches, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors to stroll, relax, and admire its architectural beauty.
The Fountain Monument in Parc de la Ciutadella
The Fountain Monument in Parc de la Ciutadella is one of the park’s most striking features, known for its impressive scale and ornate design. Built in the late 19th century for the 1888 Universal Exposition, the fountain is a grand combination of baroque, neoclassical, and Renaissance styles. The central part of the fountain is dominated by a magnificent waterfall cascading down from a large triumphal arch, adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings. At the top, a gilded statue of the winged horse Pegasus stands, symbolizing the artistic and cultural spirit of Barcelona. The fountain’s elegant design, surrounded by lush greenery and a reflective pool, makes it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to admire and relax.
Greenhouses at Parc de la Ciutadella
The greenhouses at Parc de la Ciutadella are a charming and tranquil part of the park, adding a touch of natural beauty to its surroundings. These historic glass buildings, known as Hivernacles, were built in the mid-19th century and originally served as a space for growing exotic plants and flowers. Today, they house a variety of lush tropical plants, cacti, and ornamental flowers, creating a serene environment for visitors to explore. The Victorian-style architecture of the greenhouses, with their intricate metalwork and expansive glass walls, adds a distinctive charm to the park. They are a peaceful retreat for those looking to enjoy nature up close while being sheltered in a beautifully designed, historical structure.
El Born Market
I enjoyed visiting this museum that used to be an old glass structure and marketplace in the El Born district and now showcases the ruins the ruins of this ancient district.
The El Born Market (Mercat del Born) in Barcelona is a beautifully restored 19th-century market that has become an important cultural landmark. Located in the heart of the El Born neighborhood, the market’s iron and glass structure is an architectural gem, showcasing the city’s modernist style. Today, the market houses an archaeological site beneath its floor, revealing the ruins of the medieval ribera district from the 1700s, making it a fascinating blend of history and architecture. The market is also home to the Born Cultural Centre, which hosts exhibitions and cultural events, helping to tell the story of Barcelona’s past. Visitors can wander through the market’s space, appreciating both its historical significance and its contemporary use as a hub for culture and events.
Explore Barceloneta and beaches
After all that exploring, if you have it left in you, you could head down to La Barceloneta for dinner and enjoy the beach area including sunset.
After an easy afternoon exploring Parc de la Ciutadella, it’s an easy walk or tram ride to visit the Barceloneta area and explore the beach area. I love seeing this part of Barcelona and enjoying a more relaxed and casual vibe of the area that locals enjoy along with tourists visiting the area.
It’s one of the cutest areas of town and famous for its seafood and paella. If you want to spend more time in this area, you could also add on Port Vell, The Catalan History Museum or Barcelona beach.
check out these places to eat around the Barceloneta district below
Here’s an outline of some great restaurants around the Barceloneta Beach area in Barcelona:
1. Seafood and Traditional Catalan Cuisine
- La Mar Salada
- Type: Catalan seafood
- Features: Known for its fresh seafood, traditional paellas, and great views.
- Vibe: Relaxed and cozy, perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner.
- Can Majó
- Type: Seafood, Mediterranean
- Features: Classic Barceloneta restaurant with a focus on seafood dishes like paella and arroz negro.
- Vibe: Family-friendly and casual with a charming seaside atmosphere.
- El Vaso de Oro
- Type: Tapas, Spanish
- Features: Famous for its tapas, especially seafood options, and excellent beer selection.
- Vibe: Lively, with a classic bar setting that draws locals and tourists alike.
2. Modern and Trendy Dining
- Xiringuito Escribà
- Type: Mediterranean, Seafood
- Features: Trendy beachside spot offering seafood rice dishes, grilled fish, and paella.
- Vibe: Stylish, upscale atmosphere with a beach view, popular for both locals and visitors.
- Marina Bay
- Type: Mediterranean, Fusion
- Features: A sleek, modern setting offering a variety of Mediterranean dishes with a creative twist.
- Vibe: Contemporary, vibrant, perfect for a chic dining experience by the sea.
3. Casual Beachside Bites
- Chiringuito El Potito
- Type: Beach Bar, Tapas
- Features: A laid-back beach bar serving up tapas, grilled meats, and cold drinks.
- Vibe: Informal and perfect for a casual beach day snack or drink.
- La Guingueta de la Barceloneta
- Type: Beach Bar, Mediterranean
- Features: Serving beachside snacks, paella, and Mediterranean dishes.
- Vibe: Casual, with outdoor seating right on the beach, ideal for enjoying a sunset.
4. International Options
- Pez Vela
- Type: Mediterranean, International
- Features: A mix of Mediterranean and international cuisines, offering both seafood and vegetarian-friendly dishes.
- Vibe: Trendy and laid-back with a great terrace overlooking the beach.
- L’Ostia
- Type: Italian, Pizza
- Features: A favorite spot for delicious pizzas and pasta, with a cozy ambiance.
- Vibe: Casual, great for families and those craving Italian comfort food by the beach.
5. Fine Dining with Views
- Passeig de Joan de Borbó
- Type: Seafood, Mediterranean
- Features: A Michelin-starred restaurant with a menu based on fresh, high-quality local seafood.
- Vibe: Sophisticated with panoramic views of the harbor, ideal for a special night out.
- Alaire Terrace Bar
- Type: Mediterranean, Cocktails
- Features: Rooftop dining with a great selection of Mediterranean dishes and signature cocktails.
- Vibe: Chic and trendy, with stunning views of Barcelona and the beach.
Check out these other posts to visiting Barcelona
If you are spending more time in this fabulous city, check out these other places of interest.
Day trips from Barcelona by train
Unique things to do in Barcelona
Palau de la Musica Catalana, Barcelona
Mossen Costa i Llobera garden in Barcelona
Conclusion on two days in Barcelona
Thank you for checking out this post on two days in Barcelona and hopefully you are inspired to doing any of these fun and cool activities and places to visit around the city. I think this is a great itinerary to follow and will show the highlights to the best attractions and things to do in the city in only two full days.
Thanks for checking out this post on Visit Spain and Mediterranean, please do share the post with any of the social media channels around the post, thanks for visiting!
