Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter)
Ideal for: first visit
Medieval lanes at the heart of the old town, right by La Rambla. Very lively, sometimes noisy.
Barcelona
Gaudí, beaches and medieval lanes: a big city between the sea and the hills.
Plan your stay in Barcelona
Best areas to stay in Barcelona
El Born
Ideal for: couples, nightlife
Shops, bars and restaurants in a charming old district.
Eixample
Ideal for: families, seniors, shopping
Wide avenues, Gaudí and modernist buildings, quieter in the evening.
Gràcia
Ideal for: solo, local life
A former village with squares, terraces and a neighbourhood feel.
Barceloneta
Ideal for: beach holidays
By the sea, ideal in summer to enjoy the beach.
Practical info about Barcelona
Barcelona is easy to explore by metro and on foot. For a first visit, staying in the old town or Eixample means you can do everything without a car.
The Sagrada Família and Park Güell require a booking with a time slot: book in advance. In very crowded places, keep an eye on your belongings.
What to see in Barcelona
- The Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s basilica (dated ticket with a time slot);
- Park Güell and its monumental zone (booking required);
- Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, on Passeig de Gràcia;
- the Gothic Quarter, the cathedral and El Born;
- Barceloneta and the seafront, Montjuïc for the view.
Arriving in Barcelona
The Aerobús links the airport to Plaça de Catalunya in about 35 minutes, day and night. By high-speed train, Madrid is about 2h30 away on the fastest services. Catalonia charges a tourist tax, increased in 2026.
All our tips for the country in Travel in Spain.