The capital of Catalonia is an exciting city with amazing parks, unique facades, sandy beaches and luxurious shopping streets. Whether you are passionate about culture, architecture or nature, Barcelona has something for everyone.
Even with only 3 days in Barcelona, you can get the most out of your trip by making a competent itinerary. Our article will help you find out what to see in Barcelona in 72 hrs without missing the most iconic places.
The best time to visit Barcelona
If your goal is to visit as many interesting places as possible but not make it a rushed affair, choose either late spring or the first autumn months for the trip. Mostly so that the burning rays of the sun do not turn your holiday into an inconvenience. Read here our detailed recommendations on when to visit Barcelona.
You should not go with a large luggage on a short tour. But comfortable clothes and shoes, a light backpack, phrasebook and a map of the city will become your faithful helpers.
Barcelona is a monument to the greatest architect Antonio Gaudi himself. Almost all the beauty that attracts guests are the fruits of his creativity and labor.
In 3 days in Barcelona you can see plenty of things. The proposed route in this blog post considers mainly walking to these attractions. In order not to waste precious time in erratic movements around the city, the places to visit were chosen in terms of geographical proximity and convenience. You may also want to read up where best to stay in Barcelona.
How to get from the airport to the center of Barcelona
The international air port of El Prat (El Prat) lies 15 km from Plaza Catalunya. There are 4 ways to get from the two terminals to the city center.
- By taxi (24 hour service). The most convenient and at the same time the most expensive option. You will spend approximately 30 minutes on the road, spending from 45–55 €. There is a choice of car class.
- By bus – The cheapest way to travel is with the TBM Route Bus No. 46 (daytime) and N17 (nighttime). Ticket price – 2.20 €, travel time – 40-50 minutes, depending on the traffic on the route. The trip will become more comfortable if you choose the Aerobus buses. They will take you to the center of the metropolis in 25–35 minutes, making least stops on the road. The fare is 5.90 €.
- By train – If you want to be at the hotel as quickly as possible, avoiding possible traffic jams, then choose the RENFE train. Having paid 4.10 €, you will spend 20–26 minutes on the journey depending on the destination station. The railway platform is located in the terminal T2, from the terminal T1 you can get to it by a free shuttle. Note that in high season, these shuttle buses are fully packed, so you may have to wait a bit.
- By metro – Tourists have the opportunity to get from the airport to Barcelona by metro (line L9S). A train from terminals T1 and T2 leaves every 7 minutes; the ticket costs € 4.60. When choosing this method of travel, be prepared for one change of station that must to be done at Torrassa Station (line L1).
Itinerary for 3 days in Barcelona
Day 1
The first day in Barcelona is dedicated to getting to know her heart – areas located next to the seaport. Almost all the attractions included in the travel program are not far from each other, so you will walk most of the route on foot.
1. La Rambla Boulevard
Barcelona cannot be imagined without La Rambla. It is wide street that stretches 1.3 km from Plaça Catalunya to the seaport and is the soul of this city.
A trip along the magnificent promenade will be remembered for the mosaics of the artist Joan Miro, fragrant flower rows, enticing aromas of the Boqueria market, a sip of clear water from the Canaletes fountain, the magnificent facade of the opera house, as well as the modern outlines of the Rambla del Mar pedestrian bridge.
The best time to walk around La Rambla is in the afternoon. When the heat of the day subsides, street artists, musicians and artists gather here, transforming into frozen figures of fairy-tale creatures and famous characters: the Winged Dragon, the Medusa of the Gorgon, Don Quixote and Salvador Dali.
Admire the revived statues and go to Mirador. Barcelona also has a 60-meter monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus. At the top of the column, at the feet of the legendary navigator, there is an observation deck.
2. Boqueria Market
One of the most popular attractions of La Rambla Boulevard is the Boqueria market – a gastronomic kingdom of smells and tastes. Residents of Barcelona come here for the freshest produce, and tourists come for culinary experiences and acquaintance with Spanish cuisine. Here you can buy vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, a variety of seafood, mushrooms, sausages, sweets and drinks.
The friendly sellers willingly let you taste their goods, and sometimes they slightly reduce the prices. When hopping between stalls, be sure to purchase a bottle of Cava. A glass of white sparkling wine will provide you with a wonderful evening.
You can also think about a light dinner prepared from seafood spread on ice trays. By the way, the French oysters, flavored with lemon, are unusually tasty and can be bought in the market. Their price will pleasantly surprise you: for one piece of this delicacy local sellers ask only 2.50 €.
3. Liceu Theater
The grand opening of the Gran Teatre del Liceu (Liceu Theater) took place in 1847. Private philanthropists provided funding for the construction, so Liceu differs from similar buildings erected at the expense of the state treasury. In particular, there is no royal box in the auditorium.
The rest of the interior decoration, striking the imagination with sparkling crystal chandeliers, an abundance of mirrors, marble, gilding and expensive fabrics, is in no way inferior to the famous opera houses of the world.
On stage, Liceu has hosted the likes of Fedor Chaliapin, Placido Domingo, Montserrat Caballe and Jose Carreras.
In 1994, the building was destroyed by a large-scale fire. It took builders and restorers five years to restore the theater to its historical appearance and former glory. You can see the famous landmark from the inside as part of an excursion group. The cost of this tour is 16 €.
4. Raval District
Attractive and at the same time sinister – this is how one can characterize the most ambiguous and mysterious quarter of the capital of Catalonia.
On the one hand, it attracts travelers with the authenticity of ancient houses, the ancient beauty of medieval monasteries and modern bookcase display cases. On the other hand, the streets of Raval were chosen by migrants from Pakistan and Morocco, turning the area into a haven for robbers and drug dealers.
Life here is in full swing day and night. Raval is famous for its bars. In one of them, bearing the name Marsella, Woody Allen shot scenes for the movie “Vicky Cristina Barcelona“. In addition to the cult director, Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali also frequented this area for a glass or two of burning absinthe at the marble tables.
Another must see for tourists is a bronze statue of a gigantic cat. Locals say that those who rub his “virtues” will definitely return to the Catalan capital once again.
5. Hospital of the Holy Cross and St. Paul
Not only a medical facility, but also a magnificent architectural monument awaits you a bit far from the beaten hiking trails – in the El Ginardo district, located 7 km from the Raval area. The monumental Art Nouveau building, whose facade is crowned with a spire decorated with a clock, is richly decorated with bas-reliefs, multi-colored ceramic tiles and elegant statues.
The interiors are in no way inferior to the external beauty. The elements of Barcelona’s Holy Cross and St. Paul hospital are in perfect harmony with mosaics, original patterns and sculptures.
This unique hospital is the brainchild of the architect Luis Domenech i Montaner, who began work on the construction of hospital buildings in 1902.
The architect’s idea to create buildings, the location of which would provide maximum access to sunlight, was supported by his son, after 28 years, completed the work begun by his father. Today, the medical complex is a whole park, including 12 pavilions connected by underground corridors.
6. King’s Square or Placa Reial
Plaça reial
Near La Rambla Boulevard there is a small square, whose appearance Barcelona owes to Francis Daniel Molina. In 1850, on the site of the destroyed Capuchin monastery, the architect began to build an ensemble of structures, with elegance and luxury designed to praise the Spanish monarchy. The main figure was to be a statue of King Ferdinand VII, who ruled at that time, riding on a horse. However, the architect’s plan was not destined to come true – the center of the square was decorated with the fountain of the Three Graces.
Two lanterns were installed next to it in 1879, attracting attention with the winged helmets of Mercury and snakes wrapping around the pillars. The development of exotic lanterns was the first big project by Antonio Gaudi.
In addition to the works of a brilliant architect, the Royal Square is decorated with spreading palm trees and frames a four-story classical building. Along its perimeter are restaurants and outdoor cafes. Here, on the stage of the Los Tarantos Jazz Club, performances of the best flamenco dancers take place.
7. Gothic Quarter
The most beautiful and oldest quarter of the city is the famous Barri Gotic, built on the ruins of the ancient Roman settlement of Barsino. The venerable walls are remembered by the legionnaires, and the German Visigoths, and the Arab conquerors.
It was here that in 237 AD the Catalan capital was born. From the first step, this amazing place impresses with an atmosphere of mysticism and the mysterious Middle Ages.
We recommend starting a walk in the Gothic Quarter with a visit to Cathedral Square and a tour of the Church of St. Eulalia. On your way you will also see the House of the Archdeacon, the Episcopal and Royal Palaces, the Bridge of Sighs, ancient churches and modern museums. Passing lane after lane and enjoying the damp coolness that eternal stones give, you will find forged houses located almost close to each other, wrought iron lamps and iron grilles of balconies twined with lush ivy.
8. Cathedral of St. Eulalia
Pla de la seu 3
The color of Catalonia and the Gothic style is demonstrated by the Cathedral, named after the 13-year-old martyr Eulalia, in the IV century BC. She accepted death for her faith in the Savior. The relics of the saint are the main treasure of the temple, which was built in 1460.
The facade of the monumental structure is decorated with sculptures of Christ, the apostles, biblical characters and mythical gargoyles.
The interior is solemn and strict. Attention is drawn to the organ and the medieval altar, under which the remains of the great martyr lie.
No less interesting is the patio. Here you will find the chapel of St. Lucia and the picturesque pond. Around it, 13 white geese walk around, symbolizing the number of earthly years of Eulalia.
Every summer Sunday, on a small platform in front of the cathedral, a colorful performance by the Sardanians, a traditional Catalan dancers who do the Sardana dance, takes place. This exciting show is accompanied by cobla – a group of musicians playing wind and percussion instruments.
9. Royal Palace
Carrer dels Comtes, 2
In 130 m from the ST. Eulalia is a complex of three buildings, united in the Grand Royal Palace. The first mention of it dates back to 1116 AD. Initially, representatives of the Spanish monarchy lived behind its stone walls. In the 16th century, the Holy Inquisition and the Royal Archives took the place of rulers. Today, the palace functions as one of the many museums in Barcelona.
The composition of this architectural ensemble includes:
- Tinel Hall is the name of the arched quadrangular room 12 m high for ceremonial receptions. In 1492, the royal couple received Christopher Columbus, who returned from sailing to America.
- Gothic chapel of St. Agatha was built in 1302. Inside it you will find the altar, created in honor of Pedro I of Portugal, and the heraldic shields of the rulers of Sicily and Aragon.
- The four-story Lloctinent Palace, erected in the middle of the XVI century.
You can explore the sights of the Royal Palace for free.
10. Santa Maria del Mar
Against the background of the narrow streets of the Born-Ribera district, the Santa Maria del Mar looks bulky and massive from the sea. However, upon closer inspection, the cleanliness of the forms and the elegant design of the facade are striking.
The entrance to the Gothic church, built in the IV century, is framed by sculptures of the apostles Paul and Peter. Entrance doors are decorated with relief drawings that reproduce scenes of unloading ships.
Lift your eyes and you will see a magnificent rose window with lancet arches and stained-glass windows. The interior of the temple is a kingdom of space and light, created by octagonal stone columns and semicircular ribs. Here you will not find elaborate stucco moldings and lush decorations.
The only interior decoration is the altar, decorated with a sculptural image of the coronation of St. Mary. The beautiful acoustics of the nave became the reason for holding classical music concerts in this church.
11. Park Ciutadella
A kilometer from the promenade is a corner of green, Park Ciutadella. The park with an area of 30 hectares got its name from the fortress – the Citadel, built in the XVIII century and demolished after 150 years. There are some architectural, historical monuments and natural attractions to be seen here.
In the center, in a building formerly owned by the fort’s arsenal, stands the Parliament of Catalonia. Be sure to visit the northern part, where the cool work of a young Gaudi – the Cascade Fountain – sprouts coolness.
No less loved by visitors is the Castle of the Three Dragons, within the walls of which the Zoological Museum exhibits collections. And young tourists will certainly be interested in the Mammoth Museum and one of the best European zoos, which has become home to 7,500 animals from around the world.
Day 2
The second day in Barcelona will delight fans of shopping, connoisseurs of unusual architecture and unique handwriting inherent in the architecture of Antonio Gaudi. A wonderful end to the trip will be a visit to the most amazing place in Spain – the vibrant and memorable Park Guell.
For shopping lovers, we have written a guide to what to buy or get from Barcelona.
1. Passeig de Gracia Boulevard
Passeig de Gràcia
The central and most contrasting street of the metropolis stretches for 5 kilometers from Plaza Catalunya to the Gracia district. This magnificent boulevard decorated the city at the end of the 19th century. Wealthy bourgeois families moved into new luxurious houses built in different architectural styles.
Today, restaurants, cafes, boutiques of world famous designers and department stores of the middle segment coexist here.
In October on the boulevard has huge sales loved by shopaholics. In addition to numerous shops, the attention of tourists attracted to the Paseo de Gracia original structures: the Palace Marset, houses Pere Libre, Ramona Mulerasa, Leo-and-Morera, Amal, Batlló and Mila.
It is dotted by lights and white mosaic benches. The sidewalk designed by Gaudi is lined with natural stone.
2. House of Lléo y Morera
Passeig de gràcia, 35
This building was erected in 1864 and its reconstruction in 1902–1906 was undertaken by the architect Domenech i Montaner. It is located in the “Disagreement Quarter”, a local way of referring to the constellation of three buildings contrasting with each other.
The modernist architect of the House of Lleo y Morera worked closely on the renovation of a house owned by the Morera family, in collaboration with the mosaic artist Lewis Bru, decorator Josep Pei y Farriol, sculptors Anthony Juill-i-Bac and Eusebi Arnau.
The curved facade is an architectural composition that includes mosaics, heraldic signs, intricate stucco ornaments, exquisite bas-reliefs, openwork balconies and round windows divided by pilasters. The architect tried to accentuate the on-looker’s attention on two most important elements: a glass rotunda crowned with a turret and pink marble columns. The original building is privately owned, so it can only be seen from the outside.
3. Amalieu House
Passeig de gracia, 41
Another famous building of the “Quarter of Disagreement” is a house built in 1875 and turned into a work of art in 1900. The rich confectioner Antonio Amalle was not satisfied with the appearance of the building he acquired in 1898. For the restoration and redevelopment of the new property, he invited the talented architect Josep Puig-i-Kadafalk.
Unlike the neighbors on the street, created in a modernist style, the Amalieu House is an example of Dutch and Spanish Gothic architecture, generously complemented by modern elements. A stepped pediment crowns the facade, the main detail of which is the owner’s initials, enclosed in a pattern of almond tree branches.
Intricate balcony lights, bay window carvings and sculptures at the door resemble the exterior decoration of Moorish palaces. You can get into the interior through 2 entrances.
4. Casa Batlló
Passeig de Gràcia, 43
A glimpse is enough to recognize the work of Antonio Gaudi. The general restoration of Casa Batllo, erected in 1877, marked a new stage in the work of the architect: he moved away from the classical concepts of architecture, choosing in favor of his own unique style.
For 2 years (1904–1906), an inconspicuous building turned into a kaleidoscope of bright colors, unusual shapes and bold decorations. The ridge of a fabulous creature rises a curved roof over the facade, the ceramic lining of which gradually changes color from white to blue. The decoration of the building is similar to dragon scales.
Columns, frames and tiny balconies resemble the skeletons and skulls of victims of an unprecedented monster. Not for nothing that the second punishment given to the building is the House of Bones. No less original are the interiors. You can see them over an exciting tour. Cost – 40 €.
5. Casa Mila
Provença, 261-265
Gaudi’s penultimate brainchild was a house built in 1910 by order of the wealthy manufacturer Pere Mil-i-Camps. The finished creation of the architect gained recognition only decades later – initially the building was criticized by both the customer and narrow-minded specialists. The construction of Gaudi could not boast of either a standard appearance or classic lines.
Casa Mila reminds one of dunes, rocks and sea waves. While creating his masterpiece, the architect applied innovative solutions at that time: a well-thought-out ventilation system, giving coolness even in the midday heat, and the use of concrete and iron, which made it possible to abandon the supporting walls.
Today, a museum is open in the building. Having ordered an excursion, you will see an apartment decorated in the style of the 20s of the last century, a mezzanine and an attic, where the exhibition hall is located. Special attention should be paid to the roof, which hides air ducts, pipes and ventilation towers, turned into strange scenery. Some elements are lined with fragments of ceramic tiles and multi-colored glass.
6. Sagrada Familia – Holy Family Cathedral
Carrer de Mallorca, 401
Sagrada Familia is a symbol of the Catalan capital, the greatest monument of neo-Gothic architecture and one of the most famous long-term construction projects in the world. The construction of the cathedral, resembling a fancy sand castle, started in 1882. However, a year later, the architect Francisco del Villar left the project. He was replaced by the incomparable Antonio Gaudi.
The master devoted the rest of his life to the creation of the basilica. After his death, construction management passed from one architect to another. The construction is still ongoing. According to the most optimistic forecasts, they plan to complete them by 2026. But even despite the incompleteness, the temple is amazing. It is based on the Latin cross. The facades of the building symbolize the birth, death and resurrection of the Son of God.
According to the author’s intention, 18 spires symbolizing the Virgin, evangelists and apostles should crown the cathedral, and the highest of them (170 m) – the Savior. It has unique interior decoration. Intricate columns branch up, the ceiling resembles a crown of branches, and the stained-glass windows installed at different levels look like incredible flowers.
7. Park Guell
Carrer d’Olot, 13
In the northern part of the metropolis is a magnificent park, with its palm alleys, fountains, sculptures and bizarre architecture that can compete with the best theme gardens in the world. Created thanks to the funds of the entrepreneur Eusebi Güell and the efforts of the brilliant architect Antonio Gaudi, Park Guell appeared in Barcelona in 1914.
The path of the park, originally conceived as the residence of the city’s elite, was thorny. Wealthy citizens were in no hurry to buy land. In 1921, the heirs of Guell sold the territory to the municipality of Barcelona, and after another 5 years the entire zone became accessible to the public.
Today, Park Guell is a place that incorporates the colorful creations of Gaudi. Gingerbread houses, a mosaic salamander, an antique hall of “100 columns” and a curved bench lined with ceramic tiles, fragments of glass bottles and clay products attract visitors to the world of fairy tales and fantastic creatures. Most of the park is available to visit for free.
Day 3
We recommend starting the final day in Barcelona on the largest square in the country – Plaça d’Espanya. Continue to the south-east, towards the mountain of Montjuic, and then to the north-west, to Mount Tibidabo.
Part of the journey goes through hilly terrain, so don’t forget about comfortable shoes. To move between these places, you can use the city electric train (S1,2), metro (L1), Tibibus buses, No. 111, 118 and the funicular.
1. Placa D’Espanya
Plaça d’Espanya
The accumulation of monumental structures, the transport hub of the city and the symbolic gate leading to Mount Montjuic – all this is the Place D’Espanya. In the Middle Ages, public executions were carried out here, and in 1715 a fortress was built. This area was formed only in 1905. It got a modern look after 23 years, when Barcelona was preparing for the World Exhibition.
On 34,000 m² are the architectural masterpieces of the past and present. In the center, on a small green island, the Montjuic fountain is a striking sight, the sculptures of which symbolize faith, fertility, prosperity, courage and art.
Nearby are the red building of the Barcelona Arena trading floor and the Exhibition Center pavilion. It is impossible not to notice the two towering towers, reminiscent of the Campanile bell tower in Venice. But the most impressive object of the square is the National Palace.
2. National Palace of Catalonia
The construction of an impressive building with numerous towers and domes was timed to coincide with the 2nd International Exhibition of 1929. The area of the architectural ensemble, built in the style of the Spanish Renaissance and including a magnificent park, is 30,000 m².
Main stairs lead to the central building, separated by a cascade of small pools. At the base of the palace flaunts a 3,620-jet magic fountain. With the onset of dusk, 4,760 light sources illuminate it.
A game of various shades is accompanied by classic and modern tunes. The main object of the palace complex located at the foot of the Montjuic hill is the Museum of Art, which displays prints, photographs, numismatics collections, paintings and sculptures.
3. Mount Montjuic
The picturesque mountain, rising 173 meters above the metropolis, gained popularity in the first half of the last century, when Barcelona hosted the World Exhibition. Until 1928, the top of the hill, whose name is translated from Old Catalan as “Jewish Mountain”, was crowned only by an impregnable fortress, built in 1640 by Iberians.
In 1929, Montjuic Hill turned into a huge public park. Modern objects, architectural and natural sights have found a place on the green slopes. Among the well-kept gardens, fountains and sculptures you will find the Spanish Village folklore center, the Botanical Garden, the museum of surrealist artist Joan Miro and the City of the Dead – the oldest Barcelona cemetery.
Thanks to the 1992 Olympic Games, outdoor pools, a stadium, a sports palace, Europe Square and a futuristic concert hall appeared on the mountain.
4. Poble Espanyol or the Spanish village
Having visited 1,600 villages and cities in Spain and inspired by the local flavor, in 1927 architects Ramon Rventos, Francesca Folger and artists Miguel Utrillo and Jav’er Noges created an unusual project. A mini-state has grown on an area of 4.2 hectares, which includes copies of 117 of the country’s most famous objects: palaces, houses, cathedrals, museums and streets. Here you will visit the Utebo tower, the gates of Avila, the structures of Aragon and Plaza Mayor.
In the “Spanish Village” you can not only take pictures against the backdrop of popular attractions, but also feel like a craftsman. In the mornings the workshops open their doors. Becoming a participant in fascinating workshops, you will learn how to blow glass vases, weave lace, make clay pots and draw on ceramic tiles.
In the evenings beckoning incendiary music and neon lights of an open-air disco and blood-stirring sounds of the fiery flamenco dance.
5. Montjuic Military Fortress
The defensive structure crowning Mount Montjuic is a must for history buffs and lovers of magnificent panoramic views that open from the height of the defensive walls. The history of the bastion returns us to the middle of the XVII century – the time of the beginning of the uprisings of the inhabitants of Catalonia against the royal troops of the Habsburg dynasty. In its lifetime, the citadel saw the bloody battles of 1641 and 1705, and the soldiers of Napoleon’s army, and political prisoners of the XX century.
Since 1963, a military museum has been operating inside the fortress. Its exposition includes collections of weapons, old uniforms, documents, maps, banners, orders, a collection of tin soldiers and models of famous Spanish forts. Some of the exhibits are exhibited at the very barrier of the citadel. In addition to exploring rarities, tourists will be able to visit prison cells, a water tank and a central tower.
6. Mount Tibidabo
On clear days, from the 520-meter high Tibidabo, a bewitching panorama opens up at the foot of the mountain of the capital of Catalonia. According to the gospel, it was here that Satan Jesus transferred. Trying to tempt the Son of God, the devil showed him the most beautiful territories, promising unlimited power over them. “I give you (Tibi dabo),” – with these words, Lucifer seduced the Messiah who did not obey him.
Tibidabo is 7 km from the center of Barcelona. You can climb the mountain with the help of a historic blue tram that will take you to the final stop of the funicular. Every 20 minutes, a Tibibus bus leaves from Plaza Catalunya for the amusement park. Most tourists come to Tibidabo for the entertaining “Parque d’Atracccions”. In addition, here is the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, crowning itself the highest point of the metropolis.
7. 
The Savior, opening his arms to the ancient city lying at his feet, is visible from all points of the coast of Barcelona. His 7-meter bronze figure crowns the Temple of the Sacred Heart, the construction of which took more than half a century. The history of the church began in 1886 with a small chapel erected on top of Tibidabo. After 75 years, a white-stone Catholic basilica grew up next to it, decorated with Gothic towers and statues of apostles and saints walking in 2 tiers.
The interior of the temple is made in the Byzantine tradition. Separated by columns, 5 naves are covered with mosaics, bright frescoes and decorative stucco moldings. A wooden crucifix rises above the altar. There are no artificial sources of illumination in the rooms – natural light enters through stained-glass windows, forcing pictures on them on biblical themes to spill with colorful glare.
8. Tibidabo Amusement Park
Stepping out of the cabin of the funicular that takes travelers to the top of Tibidabo, you will find yourself in the fabulous world of childhood, built in 1901. Do not look for ultramodern extreme attractions here – the park’s carousels are by no means scary, and many of them have already celebrated their 100th anniversary. Local favorites – created in 1928, a soaring airplane, a Giradobo Ferris wheel and a Hurakan swing that rotates 360°.
In addition to attractions, there are many interesting things in the amusement park. Children and adults will be amazed by the curved mirrors of the Mirror Maze, scared by the ghosts of the Misteriós castle, and the Marionetarium puppet show revealing the secrets of managing dolls will captivate. On weekends, visitors are gathered by a theatrical performance by Correfos and Cercavila, organized by street circus artists and accompanied by colorful fireworks.
How to save when visiting Barcelona
Saving on travel – this does not always mean traveling exclusively by hitchhiking or on foot and viewing only the facades of famous palaces and museums. There are other, more enjoyable ways to make the trip a budget, but at the same time comfortable, informative and exciting.
BCD card – Barcelona sights are scattered throughout the city, so you will not be able to get around them on foot. Public transport in the capital of Catalonia is perfectly organized, but the cost of one trip is 2.20 €. Expensive? Sure, but there is a successful solution to the problem called Hola BCN! You can read about it in details here.
Unlimited travel valid for 2–5 days – An additional bonus is a free trip to Mount Tibidabo and a transfer from the airport and back. Card price for 3 days – 22 €. The Hola BCN card available at tourist information offices (including train station and airport points).
For those who want to save money and time, we recommend purchasing a single tourist card. Buy Barcelona City Pass and you just have to make an interesting route. The subscription will take care of the rest. With it you will receive:
- free public transport and airport transfers;
- Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing bus ticket
- skip-the-line passage to Park Guell and the Sagrada Familia
- discounts up to 20% for visiting attractions.
The price of Barcelona City Card (for 72 hours) is 112.90 €. You can get your purchased card at El Prat Airport or at a bureau next to Plaza Catalunya.
If you want to devote one of the three days in Barcelona to relax on the beach, then your choice is the Barcelona Express Card . This card, valid for 2 days, will provide unlimited travel on all types of public transport, including the RENFE train and TMB bus, discounts up to 60% for visits to museums, attractions and entertainment shows, as well as discounts up to 20% in restaurants and shops.
The cost of the Barcelona Express Card is 20 €. A printed voucher must be presented at one of the exchange points located at the airport terminals at Estació de Sants Pl. Països Catalans, Plaça de Catalunya Pl. Catalunya, 17 and Plaça de Sant Jaume Ciutat, 2.
Summary of places to visit in 3 days in Barcelona:
- Day 1
- La Rambla Boulevard
- Boqueria Market
- Liceu Theater
- Raval District
- Hospital of the Holy Cross and St. Paul
- King’s Square or Placa Reial
- Gothic Quarter
- Cathedral of St. Eulalia
- Royal Palace
- Santa Maria del Mar
- Park Ciutadella
- Day 2
- Passeig de Gracia Boulevard
- House of Lléo y Morera
- Amalieu House
- Casa Batlló
- Casa Mila
- Sagrada Familia – Holy Family Cathedral
- Park Guell
- Day 3
- Placa D’Espanya
- National Palace of Catalonia
- Mount Montjuic
- Poble Espanyol or the Spanish village
- Montjuic Military Fortress
- Mount Tibidabo
- Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
- Tibidabo Amusement Park
