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photo by vkcreative on canva.
Welcome fellow travelers and itinerary planners! I'm here to share my personal one-week itinerary in Barcelona, offering insights, tips, and recommendations for an unforgettable experience in this captivating city.
I visited Barcelona in 2022 with my partner, it was our first trip here and we actually only decided to fly into Barcelona-El Prat Airport because it was the cheapest!! Obviously we are so stoked we did. Going back to pandemic times, when flying and travelling was really not on the cards, we absolutely winged this trip as my partner had tickets to a festival over in Prague, Czech that had been sitting in his emails since 2020 (when he was meant to go). They emailed him saying that the refund process was now over and he may only sell his tickets or use them! So of course we said a big yes.
To skip to a particular part of this blog, simply click on the segment in the Table of Contents and it will take you there!
Table of Contents
Basic Info
Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, foodie, or beach lover, Barcelona has something to offer for everyone. Here are some basic things you might want to know before you go:
Currency: EUR (€)
Language: Catalan and Spanish are the official languages, with a significant number of people fluent in English.
Population: 5.7 million (as of 2024).
Accommodation: Barcelona boasts a diverse selection of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to mid-range options, stunning beachfront hotels, and budget-friendly hostels. For further information, be sure to explore our where to stay in Barcelona section below!
Public Transport: The Metro, bikes, and Uber's are the optimal choices for navigating the city efficiently. The city center, particularly around the Gothic Quarter, is ideal for exploring on foot. The bus and metro systems are highly interconnected, ensuring seamless travel experiences. For further details, refer to how to get around. Additionally, the Barcelona Card presents an excellent solution, offering an all-encompassing ticket for unlimited use of public transport.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Barcelona is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). The weather is pleasant, the crowds are thinner, and you can enjoy the city's attractions without the peak season rush.
So, we went there at the end of July (NZ winter) and surprisingly, even with everything going on in the world, it was still pretty busy, which was cool for the tourism scene. We didn't really face any problems getting around without huge crowds, probably because of the whole pandemic situation. The weather was super hot and sticky, and we were constantly trying to beat the heat. But hey, it's winter in New Zealand during that time, so we weren't really whining about those nearly 40-degree days!
What to Expect When You Get off the Plane
As soon as we landed at Barcelona-El Prat Airport, the customs officials greeted us with a smile behind their masks, ready to check our vaccine passports and details. Everything went just as we had anticipated, making the whole process a breeze. We were stoked to see all our bags, especially my partner's, which had a little scare back in New Zealand but made it safely. Of course, everything for now is back to normal, so you probably won't have to experience the masked officials waiting for you when you exit off the plane.
Where to Stay
During our week in Barcelona, we stayed at three fantastic accommodations. Each of these hotels offers unique experiences, ranging from luxurious comfort to more affordable, trendy vibes.
Rhonda House
Our first accom in Barcelona! We were honestly so impressed with the space and affordability of this place.
We opted for this place as it's situated in the heart of Barcelona, close to key attractions like Plaça de Catalunya, La Rambla, and the Gothic Quarter. This makes it ideal for sightseeing, as many of the city's top landmarks are within walking distance.
photos by vkcreative
Compared to some of the high-end hotels in Barcelona, Rhonda House offers more affordable accommodations while still providing a high standard of comfort and design. We also couldn't fault their included breakfast for our stay! The included breakfast exceeded our expectations with a variety of options, including traditional Spanish coffees and a delightful spread of fresh deli meats and pastries. We were thoroughly impressed!
To book here: Rhonda House Booking.com
Vincci Bit
The Vincci Bit hotel in Barcelona is another excellent option for travelers, especially for those looking for a modern and artistic experience.
One of the standout features of Vincci Bit is its design. Each floor of the hotel has been decorated by different contemporary artists, turning the space into a modern art gallery.
photos by vkcreative
Vincci Bit is located in the Diagonal Mar area, which is more modern and quieter compared to the bustling city center. It’s a great spot for travelers looking to escape the crowds while still being close to important sites. The hotel is near the Diagonal Mar Shopping Centre and within walking distance to Mar Bella Beach, making it ideal for beachgoers.
One of the highlights of Vincci Bit is its rooftop pool and terrace. After a day of exploring the city, guests can relax with views of Barcelona’s skyline and unwind by the pool.
To book here: Vincci Bit Barcelona Booking.com
Hotel Market
Staying at Hotel Market in Barcelona was such a unique and charming experience. From the moment we stepped into the lobby, we noticed how elegant, yet cozy it was. The hotel has this beautiful blend of modern design with touches of vintage decor, making it feel both stylish and welcoming. We took the lift up to our room and initially we felt like we were in an old New York motel lift, glass doors that you can see outside of and very retro.
One of my favorite parts of the stay was the restaurant downstairs. It's known for its Catalan-inspired menu, and became our go-to for breakfast. The food was fantastic—locally sourced ingredients with a Mediterranean flair.
photos by Hotel Market Barcelona (web)
To book here: Hotel Market Barcelona Booking.com
How to Get Around
Barcelona is a walkable city, and exploring it on foot allows you to soak in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems even more. To cover longer distances, the city's efficient metro system, buses, and Uber's make getting around a breeze. Opting for a Barcelona Card can be quite handy, enhancing your travel experience while saving time and money. With the added benefit of complimentary access to over 25 top attractions and museums including the likes of Museu Picasso and Barcelona History Museum, the Barcelona Card proves invaluable for those keen on exploring these renowned cultural landmarks
Get your Barcelona Card here.
Barcelona's Uber service became our go-to choice due to its transparent pricing, allowing us to explore the city without any surprises. On the other hand, taxis, are known for their unpredictable meters, which can leave you a bit more out of pocket than you expect.
What to See in Barcelona
From the iconic Sagrada Familia to the picturesque Park Guell and the historic Montjuic, Barcelona has many must-see attractions that showcase the city's diverse architectural styles, art, and history.
Sagrada Familia
Visiting the Sagrada Família was nothing short of awe-inspiring, an experience that left me speechless from the moment I saw its towering spires. I couldn’t help but marvel at how massive it is - still unfinished yet already so put together. It felt alive, like Gaudí had somehow captured the essence of life itself in those carvings.
photos by basilicasagradafamilia (instagram)
Park Guell
Park Güell is one of those places that immediately transports you to another world—Gaudí's world. We unfortunately ran out of time in Barcelona so we missed this, which I am now super gutted about after seeing how beautiful it is! The colorful mosaics are the first thing that caught my eye in photos, especially the famous lizard, El Drac, guarding the staircase with its intricate design.
The organic shapes, vibrant tiles, and natural forms all look like they are growing out of the landscape rather than being built. The park is perched on Carmel Hill, and the views of Barcelona from up there are breathtaking. People say you can see the city stretching out towards the sea, with Gaudí’s other masterpiece, La Sagrada Família, towering in the distance. I will definitely be coming here when I am back in Barcelona!
photo by parkguell (Instagram)
Montjuic
While we waited for our train out to Montserrat, we decided to take a walk around Plaça d'Espanya where we stumbled upon Montjuic, a prominent hill in Barcelona, rich in history and offering spectacular views of the city. It played a significant role in Barcelona's military history and has been used both as a fortress and a prison. Today, it offers panoramic views and is a cultural space for exhibitions. The main attraction was the huge water fountain out the front. Montjuic is easily accessible by foot, there are plenty of stairs that take you up to the main area, or we also found escalators! I guess in the hot weather this was built to save peoples energy.
photos by vkcreative
Day Trips from Barcelona
Take a break from the city buzz and embark on scenic day trips to nearby gems like Montserrat or Palma Del Mallorca. Explore medieval villages, soak up the sun on pristine beaches, or delve into Catalonia's rich heritage just a short drive away from Barcelona.
Montserrat
Our trip to Montserrat from Barcelona was an unforgettable adventure, starting right from the moment we made our way to the train station. We caught the train from Plaça de Espanya, which was easier to find than we expected. The station itself is big, but there are clear signs pointing to the train for Montserrat, so we didn’t have any trouble navigating our way through.
Before leaving the train station, I highly recommend purchasing some snacks and water for your day trip, as it is much cheaper to do so at one of the local supermarkets rather than at Montserrat.
photos by vkcreative
Buying the tickets was straightforward too; we opted for the combination ticket (TransMontserrat) that included the train fare and either the cable car or the funicular ride to the top. We purchased our tickets from the station which cost around €35 per person. However, there are many guided trips that offer a full package tour that you can book ahead online such as Get Your Guide!
Guided Tours Here:
The train ride to Montserrat took about an hour, giving us time to relax and enjoy the scenery as we left the city behind. As we got closer, the landscape started changing dramatically.
When we arrived at the base of the mountain, we had two options: either hike up to the monastery or take the cable car or the rack railway (Cremallera). We decided to take the cable car (Aeri de Montserrat), which was a thrilling experience in itself. The views over the valley below were breathtaking. The steep cliffs and rocky formations of Montserrat became even more impressive as we got closer to the top.
photos by vkcreative
Once we reached the monastery, we purchased tickets to visit the Basilica and the Black Madonna, which cost around €8 per person. Walking into the basilica was a truly spiritual experience—the architecture is stunning, and the atmosphere feels so peaceful and serene. Seeing the Black Madonna up close, a statue that has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries, was a highlight of the trip. There are signs around the basilica saying no cameras allowed, so we didn't get any photos whilst inside.
After exploring the monastery, we decided to hit the walking tracks. Montserrat offers several hiking trails for different fitness levels, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. We chose the path leading to Sant Miquel Cross, which took little under 30 minutes to reach. The trail was well-marked, and the views along the way were spectacular, with unique rock formations and peaceful, scenic spots perfect for a rest or photo op. If you're not keen on hiking, you can take the funicular to some of the higher trails for an easier walk.
photos by vkcreative
Check out the Sant Miquel Cross walk here on All Trails!
The train ride back to Barcelona felt peaceful, and we couldn’t stop talking about how surreal the day had been! I honestly highly recommend a day trip here, it was probably our favorite day of them all!
Palma Del Mallorca
Our day trip to Palma de Mallorca from Barcelona was super spontaneous, starting before the sun even came up. We caught an early-morning flight, which only took about 45 minutes. The flights were pretty reasonable—around €50 per person for a round trip. It was a breeze getting through the airport, but I did have a little hiccup when my sunblock didn’t make it through customs—classic! But that didn’t slow us down.
Once we landed, we grabbed an Uber and asked to be dropped off at a random street close to the beach, hoping to explore the city organically. That’s when we stumbled across Mama Carmen’s, an amazing little café tucked away from the main tourist spots. It felt like a hidden gem, with cozy vibes and great food/coffee. The food was just what we needed after the early start, and the whole place had this relaxed, local feel to it—definitely not something we expected to find so easily.
photos by vkcreative
After refueling, we started wandering around Palma. The streets were beautiful, lined with palm trees and charming buildings. As we walked, we stumbled upon some of the city's key landmarks, like La Seu, the magnificent Palma Cathedral. It’s this stunning Gothic structure right by the sea. We also passed the Almudaina Palace, a former royal residence, with its blend of Gothic and Moorish architecture.
photos by vkcreative
We decided to stock up on a few essentials for the beach—grabbed some snacks, a bottle of Malibu, and Coke for later. Then, we headed to the beach, which was exactly what we needed. There is something so unreal about the water here, it was warm and crystal clear, and we spent hours just lounging, soaking up the rays, and swimming. It was one of those perfect beach days where time slows down, and you can just enjoy the moment.
photos by vkcreative
Later on, we couldn’t resist grabbing a couple of cocktails from Assaona GastroBeach Club Palma, which is located right by the beach with plenty of shade and amazing cocktails! I opted for a raspberry gin and tonic, and I still cannot get over the spirit pours over here! My gin was complimented with dried raspberries. The whole vibe of Palma was relaxed and carefree, and we just took it all in.
It was hard to believe that we’d packed so much into just one day—flying in, exploring, lounging on the beach—but Palma has that kind of magic. By the time we caught our flight back to Barcelona, we were sun-kissed and happy, feeling like we’d just been on a mini-vacation.
My Ideal One Week Itinerary
Finally, here's a glimpse of my personalized one-week itinerary in Barcelona, filled with unforgettable experiences, romantic moments, and delightful discoveries:
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Las Ramblas
Morning: Arrive in Barcelona on an early flight and settle into your accommodation (Rhonda House was our first accom). After checking in, take some time to either rest and recharge from the journey or go explore the nearby Las Ramblas and enjoy some breakfast nearby.
Afternoon: Head to Las Ramblas, the heart of the city’s lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to stop by La Boqueria Market, one of Europe’s most famous food markets, to grab a fresh juice or some delicious local tapas.
Evening: Rest and recharge at your accommodation and get ready for another fun day in the heart of the city!
Day 2: Sagrada Família & Park Güell
Morning: Start the day with breakfast at your accommodation (included at your Rhonda House stay). This will prepare you for your visit to Sagrada Família! Book your tickets in advance to avoid lines and enjoy a peaceful morning exploring Gaudí’s masterpiece. Be sure to take in the stunning stained glass and unique architectural details. Book your Sagrada Familia tickets here
Lunch: Grab a quick lunch at a nearby café or restaurant.
Afternoon: Head to Park Güell. This colorful park offers breathtaking views of the city, with Gaudí’s distinct organic designs on display throughout. Spend time wandering through the park’s mosaics, sculptures, and pathways, and soak in the magical atmosphere. Book your Park Güell tickets ahead of time here
Evening: Relax at one of Barcelona’s rooftop bars with views of the city as you unwind after a day of exploring Gaudí’s wonders. We recommend ___
Day 3: Montjuïc & Montserrat Day Trip
Morning: Begin your day by taking an easy and quick walk from your accommodation to Plaça de Espanya train station to purchase your Montserrat train and cable car tickets, giving yourself an hour or so to enjoy a side trip/walk to Montjuïc. Spot the extraordinary tree that sticks out from the side of the building on the way, then explore Montjuïc Castle and its stunning views of Barcelona. Visit the Magic Fountain, which comes alive at night, but enjoy the calm of the area in the morning.
Afternoon: Hop on the train from Plaça de Espanya to Montserrat for a scenic one hour ride. On arrival, follow the guided path to the cable car to take you up to the monastery. Make your way up to the monastery and enjoy the views from the cable car. Explore the beautiful Basilica and see the Black Madonna. If you’re up for more adventure, take a free map and explore one or so of the hiking trails, like the one leading to Sant Miquel Cross. Remember: save on costs and buy your snacks and water before you take the train to Montserrat!
Evening: After your day of exploring Montserrat, make your way down the cable car and back to the train station to board your train back to Barcelona. Return to Barcelona and enjoy a laid-back dinner in the city center, or a nap like we did!!
Day 4: Beach Day at Barceloneta
Morning: Today we switch up our accommodation and check in to Vincci Bit! After checking in, take it easy today with a visit to Barceloneta Beach. After checking in, get changed into your swimwear and take a 10 minute stroll down to the beach to soak in the Mediterranean sun.
Lunch: Grab some fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants or market stalls—paella and grilled fish are must-tries!
Afternoon: Take a walk along the Passeig Marítim, a promenade lined with bars, restaurants, and shops. You can also rent a bike or rollerblades and explore the coastal path.
Evening: Head back to your accommodation and enjoy a swim in the rooftop pool or some yummy cocktails!
Day 5: Day Trip to Palma de Mallorca
Early Morning: Catch an early flight from Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca (around €50 return).
Morning: After arriving, get an Uber from the airport to Mama Carmen's, a cute and delicious breakfast/coffee stop in the old town of Palma. Visit the iconic La Seu Cathedral and the Almudaina Palace on your way to the beach or supermarket.
Afternoon: Stock up on some snacks and drinks, then make your way down to the beach for a couple hours, enjoying the sun and the crystal clear water. Walk along the coastline, and if you’re in the mood, grab a couple of cocktails from one of the beachfront bars, such as Anima or Assaona GastroBeach Club Palma.
Evening: Order an Uber to get you back to the airport for your flight back to Barcelona.
Remember: sunblock is your best friend! Whether you bring it to Palma or buy it there, it is absolutely essential.
Day 6: Explore Barcelona's Side Streets & Skateboard Wall
Morning: Today is all about exploring the lesser-known parts of Barcelona. Start your day with a walk through the El Raval neighborhood, known for its street art, vibrant culture, and eclectic atmosphere.
Afternoon: Head to the famous Skateboard Wall on Carrer dels Tallers. Take time to appreciate the unique urban art scene. Continue exploring side streets, and stumble upon hidden gems like quirky boutiques, indie cafés, and galleries.
Lunch: Have lunch at a local spot in El Raval or the Gothic Quarter. I cannot remember the name of the spot we went to but it served the most amazing nachos and local beers!
Evening: Continue your street explorations, or if you’re up for it, visit the Bunkers del Carmel for one last panoramic view of the city at sunset.
Day 7: Chill Day & Farewell Cocktails
Morning: Spend the morning taking it slow. Have a leisurely breakfast at a local café or bakery.
Afternoon: Head to Riera Baixa Street in El Raval, which is full of many independent record stores, second hand shops, and student bars that seem to light up the streets day and night. You could explore this area for 1-2 hours.
Evening: End your trip with farewell cocktails at a rooftop bar or beachfront lounge. We visited a nearby bar called DejaVu Coctel Bar. This bar was very lowkey and not one of the first ones we saw on Google, but gosh we were impressed! Some of the best cocktails I think I have ever tasted. Make sure to toast to an amazing week in Barcelona as you take in the city one last time before heading back.
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with Barcelona's charm and unique beauty. Pack your bags, grab your travel companion, and embark on an unforgettable journey through this magical city! From iconic sights such as Sagrada Familia to hidden gems such as Montserrat, Barcelona invites you to create lasting memories and cherish each moment of your stay.
Barcelona is a destination that promises endless discoveries and enriching experiences, making it the perfect setting for a romantic getaway, cultural exploration, or leisurely escape. Let Barcelona be your canvas, and let your adventure paint the most memorable chapter of your travel story.
Happy traveling everyone! And I hope my Barcelona blog inspires and educates you on things to see here!
Note: The images used in this blog post are for illustration purposes only.
By: Sam Van Der Klei / Vk Creative Design
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