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Planning a Barcelona Itinerary is not a simple task. The city boasts legendary cuisine and world-famous sights that are spread across a buzzing metropolis.
Visitors limited to just 3 days in Barcelona need to have a good plan. Our guide of the best things to see in Barcelona in 3 days is designed to help you plan that perfect trip!
Planning a Barcelona Itinerary for 3 Days
Eclectic architecture, ancient history and a stunning shoreline are the main ingredients for a perfect Barcelona vacation. Add in the vibrant atmosphere and phenomenal gastronomy, it’s easy to see why Barcelona entices visitors from around the world.
We believe 3 days is just enough time to get a feel for the city – and we packed our Barcelona Itinerary with the top attractions. Those visiting from abroad will also want to read our Tips for Planning a European Vacation.
Furthermore, staying organized is key when preparing for your trip. Use our Printable Travel Planner to keep track of all the details of your Spain vacation.
3 Days in Barcelona, Spain Itinerary
This article focuses on how to best spend 3 days in Barcelona. Additionally, we share advice for visiting Barcelona – like where to stay, what to pack and how to get there.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Barcelona Travel Guide to plan your trip to Spain!
Day 1: Experience the Best of Barcelona
To begin your three days in Barcelona, set off on a free walking tour to explore the historic sights, then end your day with a classic meal.
Barcelona Walking Tour
Waste no time getting acquainted with the city! Explore on foot using our helpful Self-Guided Free Barcelona Walking Tour.
Walk down Las Ramblas – detouring to the iconic La Boqueria Market and through hidden squares revealing ancient history. Discover the dynamic waterfront on a stroll along La Rambla del Mar. Weave through the old fisherman’s quarter – known as Barceloneta – and then visit the best green space in the city, Parc de la Ciutadella.
From the park, ease into the tangle of cobblestone streets in La Ribera, wander through the iconic Barri Gothic Quarter and end your walk at the grandiose Barcelona Cathedral.
Barcelona at Night
Stay in the historic center of Barcelona for the evening and see the sights under the glow of streetlamps. For dinner, indulge in classic Catalonian cuisine, feast on seafood paella or get an introduction to Barcelona’s famous tapas.
Top Tip: Join the wildly popular evening Barcelona Tapas Tour that includes a guided walk through La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter and La Boqueria Food Market. Find out more!
Day 2: Barcelona History, Nature and Art
On Day 2 of your 3 Days in Barcelona Itinerary, travel to the Sants-Montjuic neighborhood for a full dose of history, nature and art.
Montjuic Sights
The Sants-Monjuic District offers something for everyone – from architecture and nature to museums and malls. The following sights can be visited in the order they are listed for a full day of adventures!
Placa L’Espanya
A large and lively square, L’Espanya is a fantastic starting point to see the southern sights of Barcelona. The current square was built in 1929 for the International Exhibition, but the site has a long history (and was once used for public hangings during Medieval times).
Sights on the square include the Arenas de Barcelona – an old bullfighting ring that now houses a mall (and has an outdoor rooftop terrace), the twin Venetian Towers (which stand at 154 feet), and an elaborate fountain that sits prominently in the middle of the roundabout.
Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina
Marked by the Venetian Towers, this grand avenue leads from L’Espanya to Barcelona’s most famous art museum. The long, ornate road is part of the Fira de Barcelona fairgrounds – and the Magic Fountain sits at its center.
On weekend nights, the fountain’s water streams are choreographed with music and lights, displaying a beautiful (and free) show!
Top Tip: Plan on also ending your evening at the fountain. Check show times in advance, as they vary by season.
Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya
The National Art Museum of Catalonia – or MNAC, for short – features more than 5,000 paintings and Catalan art (including furniture by Antoni Gaudi).
The gallery is housed in the Palau Nacional (the National Palace), which was the featured architectural centerpiece of the 1929 International Exhibition. Buy your ticket in advance.
1992 Olympic Village
Barcelona hosted the 1992 Summer Olympics – most of which took place just south of the art museum. The Olympic Village is now a manicured and peaceful park.
Sights within the park include the Olympic Stadium and Arena (both of which now host concerts and sporting events) and the iconic communications tower. There is a small sports museum on site as well.
Montjuic Hill and Castle
Winding roads and hillside trails lead up to the Montjuic Castle – an old military outpost. The fortress, once surrounded by a moat, dates to the 1600s.
The castle played a significant role in Catalan history – and was used as a prison during the Spanish Civil War in the late 1930s. Visitors can enter the castle with a ticket (and there are guided tours as well).
Top Tip: Don’t miss the incredible viewpoints over the sea from the top of Montjuic! Follow the trails behind the castle for the best vantage points.
More Montjuic Sights
We didn’t make it to these, but other travelers might be able to fit them into their 3 Day Barcelona Itinerary.
Barcelona Cable Car
We opted to hike, but there is also a fun (and convenient) cable car that transports people from the base of Montjuic to the hill-topping castle. Find out more!
Botanical Garden
Explore the lush nature and colorful landscapes of the Barcelona Botanic Gardens. Featuring Mediterranean plants, the park offers a moment of tranquility in the city. Entry fee required.
Joan Miro Museum
The small Joan Miro Foundation Museum features the abstract art of famous Barcelona artist Joan Miro. Buy your ticket in advance!
Top Tip: On the first Sunday of the month – and every Sunday after 3pm – both the Montjuic Castle and Botanic Gardens are free!
An Evening of Barcelona Tapas
On the second evening of your Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary, enjoy the art of Spanish tapas. Follow in our footsteps to three of the best tapas bars in the city, located just a short walk from Montjuic.
Begin the evening with wine and signature tapas from famous Quimet I Quimet, a small and lively spot. Next, sample an array of Basque Pintxos from some of the popular restaurants along Carrer de Blai, one of the most well-known Barcelona Tapas Streets.
Save some room for your final stop – Abirradero – a dedicated craft beer bar with fabulously paired tapas. Get all the tasty tapas details in our complete guide to The Best Tapas in Barcelona.
Day 3: Barcelona Architecture
Wrap up your 3 perfect days in Barcelona seeking out the best architecture. In a looping route, stroll through picturesque neighborhoods while taking in the Catalan Modernism marvels by Gaudi. Use this Google Map for walking directions.
L’Eixample Neighborhood
Considered to be Barcelona’s finest neighborhood, wandering through L’Eixample is a must on your 3 day Itinerary for Barcelona! The wide-lane, grid-patterned streets are home to numerous Catalan Modernism dwellings that Antoni Gaudi is so famous for.
La Sagrada Familia
The most famous – and forever unfinished – work by Antoni Gaudi is the incredible La Sagrada Familia. The iconic church is a highlight of any Barcelona 3 Days Itinerary.
Construction began in 1882 – and Gaudi was named lead architect on the project in 1883. He aimed to blend both Gothic and Art Nouveau styles into the design – which has resulted in a bewildering art-form.
When Gaudi died in 1926, the church was not even halfway complete. Following Gaudi’s instructions and style, the building is set to finally be completed in 2026 (100 years after his death). Buy skip-the-line tour tickets.
Casa Batlló
A Gaudi masterpiece, Casa Batllo is located on the main thoroughfare in L’Eixample, Passeig de Gracia. The house, which Gaudi renovated in the early 1900s, is often called the Barcelona House of Bones. Buy your ticket in advance.
Casa Batllo is part of the “Block of Discord” – which includes three other architecturally intriguing buildings (not of Gaudi design): Casa Lleo-Morera, Casa Mulleras and Casa Amatller.
Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
Another landmark building that was designed by Gaudi, Casa Mila – or La Pedrera, which means The Stone Quarry – was built between 1906 and 1912. Visitors have access to the courtyards, the Espai Gaudi exhibition and the rooftop terrace. Buy your skip-the-line ticket.
Casa de les Punxes
Likened to a Medieval castle, Casa de les Punxes was designed by Modernist architect Cadafalch in 1905. The home was built for the wealthy Terradas family and is one of the most recognizable Barcelona monuments. Ticket required.
Gracia Neighborhood
Bohemian and hip, the Gracia enclave offers a glimpse into local Barcelona. Gracia features pleasant squares, boutique shops and great vibes.
Placa de la Vila de Gracia
The beating heart of the district, Placa de la Vila de Gracia is always bustling with activity. Even when there are not events – like Castellers (human towers) or Sardana dances – the square attracts both Barcelona locals and tourists, who fill in the seats at the numerous restaurants and bars.
Casa Vicens
Casa Vicens was the first house built by Antoni Gaudi. He completed the Art Nouveau dwelling in 1885 for the Vicens family. The unique architecture spurred the Modernism movement that is so prominent throughout Catalonia. Get tickets in advance.
Parc Güell
Taking 14 years to complete, Park Guell was designed by Gaudi as a residential subdivision…but the project failed, and the city designated it a park in the 1920s. The playful artistic park reigns as one of Barcelona’s top landmark attractions. Join a tour with skip-the-line tickets.
Combo Tickets: Entry to many of the above UNESCO Heritage Modernist sites can be combined into a single, cost-saving ticket. Guided Gaudi Tours are another excellent way to experience these sights.
Sant Pau Recinte Modernista
Somewhat of a hidden gem, this Art Nouveau complex functioned as a hospital until 2009. Built by architect Domenech I Montaner in the early 1900s (and opened in 1930), the Recinte Modernista Sant Pau hospital features opulent gardens and underground tunnels. Buy tickets in advance.
Evening in L’Eixample
The L’Eixample district is home to some of the best restaurants and bars in Barcelona! End your Barcelona, Spain vacation on a high note and dine in style at the famed Michelin Star restaurant Lasarte.
If you want a more casual – but still memorable – experience, go to Tandem Bar for an exceptional hand-crafted cocktail, then enjoy a local meal at Colmado.
More Things To Do in Barcelona
Our 3 Days Itinerary Barcelona features our top picks for the best things to do in the city. That said, fellow travelers may want to add a few more sights to their Barcelona trip plan – and we are highlighting a few of the most popular options!
Barcelona UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Sagrada Familia is the city’s most well-known UNESCO World Heritage Site – but there are actually 9 listed UNESCO sites in Barcelona.
We have already mentioned visiting Park Guell, Casa Batllo, Hospital de Sant Pau, Casa Mila and Casa Vicens – but there are 3 more UNESCO World Heritage Sites to seek out during your Barcelona trip.
The Palau de la Musica Catalana, located in El Born, is a Catalan Art Nouveau architectural gem (and one that Gaudi did not design).
Palau Guell, an early Antoni Gaudi design, features a modern façade and sits just steps from Las Ramblas.
The Crypt of Colonia Guell – also designed by Gaudi – is actually located beyond Barcelona in the small town of Santa Coloma de Cervello.
Barcelona Museums
We featured a few of the top museums in Barcelona in our itinerary, but the city is home to many, many more! Inquisitive travelers may want to add one or more of these institutions to their 3 days in Barcelona trip plan.
Pro Tip: Several museums can be visited with one pass! Get the details.
Museum of Contemporary Art
A bright, airy and modern venue, the Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona features a collection of Catalan artworks from the 1940s to today.
Maritime Museum
The Museu Marítim de Barcelona features the history of seafarers. The family-friendly displays include model ships, replicas and maps.
Picasso Museum
Celebrating the work of Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, the Museu Picasso de Barcelona features the evolution of his iconic cubism art forms. Check for Picasso Museum free days or purchase a guided tour in advance.
MOCO Museum
A modern museum with a fresh take on contemporary art, the MOCO features the works of famous artists, like Banksy and Warhol. Get tickets in advance.
More Top Barcelona Attractions
Whether you are planning a trip to Barcelona with kids or a sports fan, there are attractions in Barcelona that aim to impress!
Camp Nou and FC Barcelona Museum
Home to FC Barcelona, Camp Nou ranks as the largest stadium in Europe – and one of the top landmarks in Barcelona. Visitors can tour the stadium and learn about the history of the legendary soccer club. Get more details!
Barcelona Zoo
The Zoo de Barcelona is a top attraction for kids (but adults can go, too!). The site is home to more than 4,000 animals – including gorillas, dolphins, birds and reptiles. Get tickets online!
Barcelona Aquarium
Walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks, take a peek at the funny penguins and see sea creatures up close at the Aquarium. As one of Barcelona’s most popular attractions, it’s best to get skip-the-line tickets in advance.
Barcelona Day Trips
Want to get out of the city and discover more of the region? With a little rearranging of the places to see in Barcelona in 3 days, you can squeeze in a tour outside of the city.
Montserrat
Leave the urban landscape behind and head for the hills! Take the cable car up the mountain and visit the Montserrat Abbey. Afterwards, enjoy a 3-course farmhouse lunch. Find out more!
Costa Brava Kayak and Snorkel Tour
Escape the mainland and spend a day at sea. Discover the coastline at Costa Brava on a kayak tour then dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea for a swim. Get the details!
Barcelona Guided Tours and Activities
There are many Barcelona activities and tours that don’t leave the city – but can significantly enhance your trip!
Sunset Catamaran Cruise
Set sail and enjoy a relaxing 1.5 hours at sea. Listen to live jazz music aboard the ship as a perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing! Find out more.
Flamenco Show
Watch a flamenco performance at the renowned Los Tarantos. The short – but epic – performance is a perfect pre- or post- dinner event. Reserve your seat.
Paella Cooking Experience
Accompany a local chef to the market to buy ingredients for tapas, sangria and paella. Watch – and help – prepare the feast and then indulge in the traditional meal! Book it ahead.
Barcelona Sightseeing Passes
Our itinerary features the top places to see in Barcelona – many of which require entry tickets. To help save a little money, consider purchasing one of these Barcelona sightseeing passes.
Barcelona Card
The Barcelona city pass is good for 3, 4 or 5 days and includes free or discounted admission to 20 attractions. Find out more!
Hola Barcelona Travel Card
This option is an all-in-one pass for public transport. Use the card to ride the metro, buses and trams. Get the details!
Barcelona Travel Tips
We’ve been visiting Spain for over a decade. Get ready for your Barcelona trip with our top travel planning tools and honest advice!
How To Get to Barcelona
Travelers can get to Barcelona by plane, train, bus, boat or car. Unless already in Spain, most visitors will arrive by airplane.
Barcelona International Airport (BCN) is served by all major international airlines as well as numerous European low-cost carriers. US Cities with direct flights to Barcelona include Philadelphia, New York, Boston and Chicago.
Nearly every major European city is connected to Barcelona, with the most frequencies offered from London, Paris, Amsterdam, Munich, Lisbon and Frankfurt.
Top Tip: Search for the best deals on flight to Barcelona at Skyscanner!
Where To Stay in Barcelona
With just 3 nights in Barcelona, you will want to be centrally located. There are hundreds – thousands – of places to stay in the city – so we are highlighting just a few of our preferred neighborhoods and hotels.
L’Eixample
We have stayed in L’Eixample in an Airbnb Apartment. The neighborhood was excellent for seeking out local cafes and bars – and extremely convenient for exploring the fascinating architecture.
El Poble-sec
This district lies between Montjuic and the Old Town. The location was ideal for direct transportation to and from the airport and within walking distance to the popular Barcelona tapas street. We got a room at the Hotel Concordia Barcelona, which worked great for our stay.
Start your search for hotels in Barcelona on Booking.com – but read our tips for Finding the Great Hotels at Low Rates!
When To Go to Barcelona
Many travelers choose go to Barcelona in the summertime. However, that is the busiest, hottest and most expensive time of year.
We recommend visiting Barcelona in the shoulder season – either autumn or spring – when there are fewer tourists and more affordable accommodations.
Alternatively, consider visiting Barcelona during the holidays. If you have been thinking about spending Christmas in Europe, we highly recommend it. Get all of our top tips for enjoying Barcelona at Christmas!
What You Need For Your Trip to Barcelona
We have a few packing hacks and then you’ll be ready for your Barcelona 3 day trip. Go ahead and grab our Free Packing Checklist and let’s get to Spain!
Walking Shoes
Our Barcelona Itinerary covers some ground! Be sure to pack comfortable travel shoes. I wear lightweight and versatile shoes, like these from Columbia. Kris prefers trail shoes from Merrell.
Anti-Theft Bag for Barcelona
Unfortunately, Barcelona has numerous occurrences of petty crime. Tourists are frequent targets of pick-pockets. Be certain to keep your valuables zipped up and out of the reach of thieves with a secure Day Bag for Travel.
We keep our wallets tucked into money belts and phones in the zippered pockets of our day pack. Travelon also produces highly-rated anti-theft bags and purses.
Travel Camera
Don’t rely on your phone to capture the sights of Barcelona (besides, it’s not a good idea to wave it around). Instead, upgrade to a real travel camera with a neck and/or wrist strap. We use a Canon Rebel, which takes fantastic pictures and is a great budget camera for all types of travel.
Spain Travel Insurance
Trip insurance may reimburse for costs from flight delays, lost luggage, theft and unexpected illnesses or injuries abroad. Check the affordable rates and robust coverage with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Spain! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Travel Guides for Spain
- 1 Week Spain Itinerary
- 3 Days in Madrid
- Basque Country Itinerary
- Madrid Walking Tour
- Christmas and New Years in Madrid
- Visiting Seville and our Top Tapas Bars
- Eating Pintxos in San Sebastian
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