There is plenty to pack into a trip to Barcelona, but if you’re only there for one day it’s essential to put together a plan of action. This way you can ensure you see the best bits without running around like a headless chicken! Check out this suggested itinerary and the see the best of Barcelona!
Morning
Get ready for an action-packed day and make sure the first stop is for breakfast! You have to know the best place to go though as breakfast isn’t an important meal of the day for most Spaniards. If you crave more than just a coffee, head to Federal Café. Two other popular options are Dunnes Irish Bar Barcelona or Milk Barcelona. Failing that, hit the local market, Mercat La Boqueria, and fill up on some tasty fresh fruit and pastries.
First things first, take a stroll along La Rambla en route to Placa Reial. La Rambla is an extremely attractive tree lined walkway and a true pleasure to see. Take a detour onto some of the smaller side streets along the way for a more authentic experience of Barcelona. Don’t forget where you are headed though; Placa Reial is arguably one of the city’s most famous squares. Once you’ve spent a short while admiring the palms and people watching, dart into one of the cafes for an al fresco coffee. From here head off to Ciutat Vella, the Old Town of Barcelona where you will discover the Gothic quarter, Barri Gòtic.
There are many world heritage listed buildings to be seen dotted amongst the winding medieval streets. Heading to this area first means you will beat the crowds and will allow for uninterrupted photograph opportunities.
Late Morning
After this, visit different areas of the city to see some of the famous examples of Gaudi architecture. The first stop should be the hugely impressive Sagrada Familia Church, one of the most iconic sights here. The next stop will be Parc Guell. Once here you can enjoy the delights on offer and spend some time in the Gaudi Museum. Be sure to buy a combo ticket for discounted entrance to both attractions.
Afternoon
By now, you will be ready to stop for lunch so head to El Jardi de l’Apat, a casual little brassiere nearby to Parc Guell which comes recommended. Relax and enjoy the weather whilst you dine. Alternatively, travel 3 blocks down from the on/off bus stop and turn left. You’ll arrive in a small area with a selection of several cafes and tapas bars so take your pick!
Having enjoyed the best of this bit of the city, it’s time to head to the popular seafront. The stunning and of course iconic gothic Barcelona Cathedral is in the area so best stop here first. Just behind the Cathedral you will find one of the best places to grab some ice cream with a wide range of flavours, from yummy chocolate to delicious…celery?! Whatever flavour you choose it’s the perfect antidote for a warm afternoon. Head straight onto the sand after this (after all, you can’t visit Barcelona without stopping by at the beach!), lose your shoes and take a short stroll in the surf.
Now is the time to settle your curiosity of the cable car line that cuts through the city skyline! The Transbordador Aeri del Port cable way will transport you from the Port into the mountains resulting in terrific panoramic views of the city and landscape below. Once you arrive at the top you can explore the gardens. You can also explore Montjuic Castle if you wish. This is a great place to spend the last few hours of the afternoon, picking out the sights and attractions that you recognise from the dwarfed city below.
Evening
End your sky high experience by choosing to dine at the highly renowned Torre d’Alta Mar Restaurant. It can be found at the top of the tower which you must climb to board the cable car so you can still enjoy great views of the city as the sun sets and you digest a great meal.
Once you’ve finished eating you will no doubt want to head off in search of some evening entertainment. A flamenco show is a great way to end your day in Barcelona and one of the best is said to be Tablao de Carmen in the Sants-Montjuic area of the city. After this the choice is yours, bar crawl or simply take a night time stroll back along La Rambla to end your day in Barcelona.
Have you been to Barcelona? What are your must-see recommendations for one day in Barcelona? Let us know in the comments below!
