What to see in Barcelona in 2 days
This open and Mediterranean city is one of Spain’s most cosmopolitan destinations and it welcomes the latest trends. If you spend two full days exploring the city, you can visit the historic districts, such as Gràcia and the Gothic Quarter, as well as some of the city’s museums. One of the top activities is a tour of Catalan Modernism. Must-see landmarks include the Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera, Casa Batlló and Park Güell. Barcelona has always been on the cutting edge of culinary trends, without forgetting its local traditions. As you make your way through the stands at La Boquería Market, you will notice how, despite being a gourmet space, tradition remains intact and locals continue to be loyal customers.
Barcelona is also an excellent destination for shopping, thanks to the quality brands and local designers.
Two days in Barcelona will fly by in record time, but they’re a great start.
Itinerary day 1
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Sagrada Familia
Barcelona’s emblem is its most popular monument. Visit this unfinished church for a chance to step into Gaudí’s world. Take note of the façades inspired by nature, with large columns reminiscent of a stone forest. Be sure to stop by the museum in the lower ground floor.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site and Hospital Santa Creu
Be sure to visit this space, declared a World Heritage Site in 1997. This modernist site was designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner and served as a public hospital for a century. Hospital Santa Creu was moved to this location in the late nineteenth century.
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Park Güell
This fantasy universe created by Antoni Gaudí was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most photogenic spots are the dragon staircase and the Hall of 100 Columns, but be sure to explore each one of its many nooks and corners.
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Lasarte restaurant
This restaurant combines the expertise of Chef Martín Berasategui and the skills of Paolo Casagrande, the head chef. It is one of the best alternatives where you can be amazed by its creative and innovative cuisine.
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Passeig de Gràcia
The majestic Passeig de Gràcia, which begins at the district it is named after and ends at Plaça de Catalunya, is like an open-air museum lined with the city’s best modernist buildings. This avenue is also perfect for shopping.
5:15 PM - 6:00 PM
La Pedrera
Made up of two residential buildings, this complex was Gaudí’s last project. Some of the most noteworthy spaces include the rooftop, which is a work of art; the 270 arches to support the roof terrace, a recreated home; and the courtyards.
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Casa Batlló
This residence, designed by Gaudí, combines elements such as glass, iron, ceramic and stoneware to create an amazing aesthetic. Take note of its rippled shapes and the fantasy that emanates from this building.
8:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Shopping at Portal de l’Ángel
The top shopping district begins at Plaça de Catalunya and ends at the cathedral. Other interesting areas for shopping are la Milla de Oro (between Plaça de Catalunya and Avinguda Diagonal), or small shops in the Gràcia district and El Born.
9:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Hydrogen Restaurant
Come discover Chef Ramón Ribas’ succulent dishes and his play on shapes and textures. The restaurant also serves brain food, intended to boost and sharpen your brain.
Itinerary day 2
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
La Boquería Market
Dating back to 1840, this is the oldest market in Barcelona. It houses more than 300 stands that sell fruits, vegetables, meats and fish, in addition to areas, such as La Tasca de Juanito, where you can find good tapas.
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
La Pallaresa chocolate shop
It is said that Carrer de Petritxol is the sweetest street in Barcelona, and it might even be true since it is home to some of the best chocolate shops. It is customary to go in the morning or afternoon for some traditional churros or melindro pastries.
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Gothic Quarter
A stroll through the city’s oldest neighbourhood will reveal a lovely maze of narrow streets and some of locals’ favourite spots. Take your time to savour the cathedral along with the squares Plaça del Rei, Plaça de Sant Jaume and Plaça de Sant Felipe Neri.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
El Chigre 1769
Chef Fran Heras serves an interesting combination of Asturian and Catalan cuisine at this establishment facing the Basilica of Santa María del Mar. This warm and casual space was created by the interior decorator Eva Arbonés. Slow food at affordable prices.
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
El Born district
Spend the afternoon exploring this medieval neighbourhood that is home to not only the famous Basilica of Santa María—the inspiration behind La catedral del mar by Falcones—but also quite a few palaces and the Chocolate Museum.
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
The Picasso Museum
This is a must-see stop if you love Picasso’s work since it has the best collection from his formative years. The artist’s brilliance is revealed through the 4,251 works that comprise the permanent collection.
7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Ciutadella Park
After a long day, we recommend stopping by this historical park for a bit of relaxation. Featuring a waterfall, lake and several monumental buildings, this happens to be Barcelona’s first public park. Visitors can also enjoy the vast flora and hundred-year-old trees.
9:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Dinner at Torre d’Alta Mar
For the grand finale to the perfect trip, end the day with stunning 360º views of Barcelona at this restaurant. Located in one of the towers at Port Vell, 75 metres above the ground, it serves delicious and creative signature cuisine.
11:30 PM - 3:00 AM
Maremàgnum
Since this shopping and entertainment venue is popular with tourists, it has a bustling atmosphere every day of the week. In addition to the shops, outdoor terraces and cinemas, it also has a special area for concerts.