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Barcelona, Spain has an amazing history and is packed with iconic sights. The best way to experience the Catalonian Capital is to set off on foot with a Barcelona Walking Tour.
Many of the top attractions are clustered around the Barcelona Old Town. Our easy-to-follow Free Self-Guided Barcelona Walking Tour includes the best spots in the Old Town.
Seeing these sights is a must for your Barcelona Itinerary. So, lace up your shoes and follow in our footsteps for a fantastic DIY walk in Barcelona!
Self Guided Barcelona Walking Tour
Our Barcelona Self-Guided Walking Tour is ideal for those who prefer to discover places at their own pace. At the end of the article, we include a complete Barcelona tour map that plots all of the attractions on the route.
Guided Walking Tours Barcelona
We believe our DIY Barcelona tour is the best way to see the city. However, if you would rather a guide lead the way, we offer recommendations for top rated walking tours in Barcelona at the end of the article.
Tips For Exploring Barcelona on Foot
Before we hit the pavement and get started, we have a few tips for your Barcelona, Spain walk!
Walking Tour Barcelona Details
Our Self-Guided Walking Tour of Barcelona covers 5+ miles. The entire route can be (ambitiously) completed in about 2 hours.
However, that won’t leave much time for tapas, photos or detours. Unless you are short on time, we recommend slowing down and taking an entire day to enjoy the Barcelona sights.
Barcelona Detours and Suggestions
Walking around Barcelona, Spain, you can be easily distracted by architecture, hidden lanes and old churches.
While our outlined tour is one of the best walks in Barcelona, there is room for wandering. Use this as a guide, but feel free to create your own walking routes in Barcelona to experience the city as it suits you!
15 Barcelona Self-Guided Walking Tour Sights
Ok, let’s get started on our Walk Through Barcelona! Remember to refer to the Barcelona Walking Tour Map below for directions.
#1 Placa de Catalunya
The starting point for our Best Walking Tour Barcelona is Placa de Catalunya – or Catalonia Square. It is a vast space located on the north end of Old Town Barcelona. In the square are impressive fountains and statues – and it’s central location is the ideal place to start your Barcelona exploration!
#2 Las Ramblas
The most famous street in Barcelona is Las Ramblas. What was once a drainage ditch is now a wide, pedestrian path. Strolling the length of Las Ramblas is a must on your Barcelona Self Guided Walking Tour.
Newsstands, flower shops and street performers line the length of The Ramblas. Don’t forget to detour off the main strip to discover small squares and quaint streets, as well.
#3 Placa Vila de Madrid
The next stop on our free tour of Barcelona is the inconspicuous Placa Vila de Madrid – and it’s filled with fascinating history. Once the site of a convent, excavations revealed an ancient past…one dating to the 1st century AD, when Barcelona was a Roman colony, known as Barcino.
The archaeological findings – about 60 tombs lining a road – are now on display. This Roman Necropolis and the Via Sepulcral Museum lend more insight into the history of the area. If you have time, pop in for a look!
#4 La Boqueria Market
La Boqueria can trace its history to the year 1217. The Barcelona city center market offers a range of goods, including everything from seafood to sweets – all presented in colorful displays.
In addition to vendors, small kiosk restaurants are also on site. In fact, La Boqueria is home to some Tasty Barcelona Tapas, too. So, if you are hungry, take a break from your Self Guided Tour Barcelona and grab a bite to eat!
#5 Gran Teatre del Liceu
One of the prime sights near La Rambla, continue your Best Free Walking Tour Barcelona by sidestepping from the famous street to a top attraction.
A luxurious opera house, Gran Teatre del Liceu first opened in 1847 (although, it had to be rebuilt after a fire in 1994). The façade, however, is original – if not rather plain in comparison to the beautiful theater that lies within. Visitors can attend a performance or take a tour.
#6 Placa Reial
Another one of the great destinations just steps from Las Ramblas as you walk south from the La Boqueria is Placa Reial.
A hidden gem right in the heart of the city, Placa Reial is a spacious square located off a side street (Carrer de Colom) from Las Ramblas. The square is ringed with restaurants and cafes – and features swaying palm trees, a fountain and lamp posts designed by Antoni Gaudí.
#7 Palau Guell
The Guell Palace, a mansion designed for the Guell family, is an early (and quite extraordinary) work by Gaudi. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, “Works of Antoni Gaudi” and can be toured with a ticket.
Even if you don’t tour the palace, it is worth seeing Palau Guell from the outside on your Barcelona walking route.
#8 Columbus Monument and Barcelona Waterfront
Continue your Self Guided Free Walking Tour in Barcelona to the Columbus Monument. The obelisk rises 200 feet, marking the south end of La Rambla and the beginning of the Barcelona waterfront. A statue of Christopher Columbus pointing to the New World is perched atop the singular, decorative column.
The monument stands to commemorate his return journey to Barcelona, where he reported the discovery to the Spanish Queen Isabella and Ferdinand. The statue was erected in 1888 for the Universal Exhibition. Today, visitors can take in the views from the top (buy your ticket in advance).
#9 La Rambla del Mar
From the Columbus Monument, step onto the wooden walkway that is best known as La Rambla del Mar – the Walk by the Sea.
The boardwalk leads to a hub of activity – and plenty of places to distract you from your Self Guided Walking Tour Barcelona! Top things to see and do include seaside eateries, the Maremagnum shops and the Barcelona Aquarium (buy skip-the-line tickets).
#10 Barceloneta
Heading north around the harbor, continue walking in Barcelona past the hundreds of sailboats and a few extraordinary yachts and enter the seaside enclave of Barceloneta.
Previously the local fisherman’s quarters, the area was overhauled in the 80s – and is now one of Barcelona’s trendiest neighborhoods. In addition to the wide, popular beach, the Barceloneta district features a plethora of seafood restaurants and ocean view cafes.
#11 Parc de la Ciutadella
The next stop is the enormous Parc de la Ciutadella. It is Barcelona’s best green space. The park encompasses the Barcelona Zoo, waterfalls, ponds and monuments.
Don’t miss Cascada del Parc de la Ciutadella. The decorative fountain dates to 1881, but was enhanced with sculptures and the arch in time for the 1888 Universal Exhibition – with some credit going to then novice Antoni Gaudi.
#12 La Ribera and Santa Maria del Mar
After visiting the spacious park, continue your Self Guided Walking Tour of Barcelona into the historic lanes.
Navigate your way across the cobblestones of La Ribera. Many of the buildings in the district date to Medieval times, when it was home to Barcelona’s most affluent citizens. Artist studios, boutique shops and hip cafes now line the streets.
In the tangle of lanes, find the Esglesia de Santa Maria del Mar. The expansive Gothic church, which dates to the early 1300s, is one of Barcelona’s most beautiful buildings.
#13 Barri Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral
Barri Gothic is the heart of Barcelona Old Town and the oldest part of the city. The majority of the district is pedestrian-only – so take time to wander, perhaps venturing into a few shops or tapas bars along the way.
As you stroll the district, make your way to La Catedral – a must-see sight on Barcelona city walks. The massive Barcelona Cathedral should not be confused with the still-unfinished work of Gaudi, La Sagrada Familia.
The façade is decorated with soaring spires and decorative gargoyles. The interior of the cathedral is lit by grand chandeliers. Beneath the altar is a crypt hosting the remains of Santa Eulalia, one of Barcelona’s Patron Saints.
#14 Palau de la Musica Catalana
If time permits, continue your free tour to one of the best Barcelona sights: The modernist Palau de la Musica Catalana.
It is one of Barcelona’s most beautiful concert halls. Built in 1908 by Spanish architect Domenech i Montaner, the exquisite building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Want to see the interior? Join a 45-minute guided tour that includes the famous skylight, the grand staircase and areas that are usually off-limits!
#15 Arc de Triomf, Barcelona
Unlike most city arches, the Barcelona Arc de Triomf does not celebrate a military victory. Instead, the grand, red-brick structure was built in 1888 to welcome visitors to the Universal Exhibition World Fair.
Today, the landmark is the final stop on our Barcelona Tour by Foot. We hoped you enjoyed your walk and have a lovely time in Spain!
Barcelona Sightseeing Map
Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our Walking Route Barcelona Map below.
Barcelona Tour Walking Map
Our Barcelona Tourist Attractions Map with walking directions is also available on Google.
Guided Barcelona Walking Tours
Our walk is a great way to explore the city on your own. However, there are many guided Barcelona walks that are theme-based. We are featuring a few of the most popular for you to add to your stay.
Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour
Visitors who want a local guide to lead the way through the heart of the city can join a highly rated tour.It features prime sights in the Old Town and Gothic Quarter. The local guides share history, facts and fun stories along the route.
Gaudi Tour Barcelona
Antoni Gaudi is Barcelona’s most famous architect. Learn about his life, designs and impact on the city on a Guided Gaudi Walk through Barcelona. Top Gaudi sights to see are La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batllo and Casa Mila.
Barcelona Tapas Tour
Tapas are an art form in Barcelona! Let a local guide lead the way on an introduction to the unique cuisine on an evening tour.
However, you can keep following in our footsteps and create your own Tapas Bar Hopping Tour. Check out our recommendations for the Best Tapas in Barcelona!
Free Barcelona Walking Tours
Many different companies offer free walking tours in Barcelona. Just keep in mind that ‘Guided Free Walking Tours’ are not in fact free – as guides expect to be tipped for their service.
More Things To Do in Barcelona, Spain
Navigating the city on foot is a great way to spend a day in Barcelona. Guests staying longer can use our 3-Day Barcelona Itinerary for ideas on what to see and do. We offer day trip options, feature top museums and highlight fun activities – like a popular Flamenco show!
Planning a Trip to Barcelona
We know there is so much more to planning a Barcelona trip than taking a walking tour! If you are traveling from overseas, start with our guide to Planning a European Vacation. We share need-to-know details that will help you make the most of your trip abroad.
As you prepare for your vacation, be sure to stay on top of all the details. Download our Travel Planner Printables to organize your Spain trip.
What To Pack for Your Barcelona Trip
Okay, it’s time to start packing! We are sharing a few must-have items for Barcelona – but you can find more on our Packing Tips page. For now, grab our Free Packing Checklist and let’s go to Spain!
Walking Shoes
Our Barcelona Walking Tour covers some ground – so make sure to pack good travel shoes. It’s best to wear shoes that are comfortable and versatile – I prefer these trainers. Kris wears Merrell Trail Shoes, even when walking around cities.
Travel Camera
Barcelona is beautiful! Upgrade to a real travel camera for your trip. We shoot with a Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens. It’s easy to use, takes quality photos and is well-priced camera for travelers.
Barcelona Map and Guidebook for Spain
It’s easy to get turned around or lost in any new city! Be sure to have a good city map and/or guidebook prior to arriving in Barcelona.
Anti-Theft Day Bag
While Barcelona has wonderful sights, it also has pesky pickpockets. Be sure to carry a zippered day pack – like these by Travelon – to organize and secure all of your daily travel items. Read our reviews on The Best Day Bags for Travel for more styles and options.
Spain Trip Insurance
If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your vacation to Spain, consider traveling protected with World Nomads. They may reimburse you for costs associated with lost luggage, cancelled flight or even illness while traveling.
More For Visiting Spain
Planning to visit more than just Barcelona on your trip to Spain? We have travel guides for several top Spanish destinations!
- Plan a 1-Week Spain Itinerary
- Spend Christmas in Barcelona or Madrid (and other fun European Winter Destinations)
- Discover the Best of Seville (including our suggested Tapas Bars)
- Explore the Sights of Madrid on our 3 Day Itinerary
- Learn how not to spend NYE in Madrid
- Enjoy the Best of Basque Country
- Feast on Pintxos in San Sebastian
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!
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