5-day Barcelona Travel Guide

Barcelona is Spain's second-largest city and is famous for its architecture and culture. The Romans, around 15BC, founded it as a military center.

Best 5-day Barcelona itinerary!

Day 1: Get Lost in the City!

For me, the best way to get to know a city is to wander and get lost. You will be safe but can explore many parts of the city. Pack your walking shoes because the first full day is when you walk the longest.

If you don't want to get lost, this is a list of FREE attractions you can check out in the center.

La Rambla:

My favorite part of La Rambla is the mosaic on the street and the atmosphere provided. This is the Main promenade, where you will see many talented street performers and human statues. It is also surrounded by fantastic architecture, bars, and shops.

Mercat la Boqueria:

This market is a must-visit located on the same street as La Rambla! If you want to see local produce, this is the place. You can also buy Jamón Ibérico (A Spanish specialty), excellent goat cheese, wine, and some great tapas!

Barrio Gotico:

Within the Gothic Quarter, you can walk beautiful cobblestone alleys and find many cafes, churches, and plazas. For example, you have the Gothic Cathedral, Royal Plaza (Placa Reial), King's Square (Placa del Rei), and the Church of Santa Maria del Pi.

Day 2: Gaudi Day!

Search a few Free Walking tours and see if any of those companies offer Free walking tours. I always choose to use Sandemans New Europe. They are a great tour company I have used for the last 10 yrs.

I recommend you begin your day at Parc Güell and then go down towards the center to spend the afternoon walking the rest of Gaudi's impressive masterpieces. Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, and the all Famous Sagrada Famíli

Parc Güell:

The location of Gaudi's house, yes, you have read that right, Gaudi's Home! This park is the perfect place to get lovely views of Barcelona. It is also a great place to spend a sunny morning strolling through the park and admiring the impressive architecture, all while listening to random street musicians playing classical music.

Casa Batlló:

This house was one Antoine Gaudi refurbished for a wealthy client in 1904. The house is typical of Gaudi's Modernist/Art Nouveau-style architecture. It is nicknamed the "House of Bones" due to the external facade. You can always walk the exterior if you choose not to go inside the house. The house was nominated, the same year it was completed, as the best design of the year. Unfortunately, Gaudi did not win the award. The Batlló family owned the house until the mid-1950s, and an insurance company then bought it over.

Casa Milà:

This was the last private residence designed by Gaudi, and it was built between 1906 and 1912. It was commissioned by the Milà family, although it was very controversial due to the freestanding stone facade and the open floor plan, along with the iron balconies. You can tour the building and go to the rooftop, which offers spectacular views of the architecture and the surrounding city.

Sagrada Família:

The famous masterpiece of Gaudi and one that is still unfinished. The Sagrada Familia is a UNESCO World Heritage site solely funded through private donations. It is meant to represent biblical stories from the New Testament, and each facade has a specific theme. It would be best to purchase your tickets online in advance because there is no guarantee that a slot will be available for last-minute visits. If you want to see the interior, this is a must. The inside is incredible, especially on a sunny day when you can get the light filtering through the various stained-glass windows. The whole basilica looks as though it is organically growing out of the ground because of all the intricate detail and intertwining pillars.

Day 3: Montserrat!

Montserrat is the Perfect day trip from Barcelona if you want a nice sunny hike with amazing views. It is about 2hrs from the city, and I suggest you leave early to enjoy the various walks before the afternoon heat rolls through. Montserrat is known for its Benedictine Abbey and the Basilica of Santa Maria de Montserrat. The church's interior is impressive and home to the Shrine of the Virgin of Montserrat. All in all, Montserrat is an ideal place for Hikers, Climbers, and religious pilgrims. If you visit during October, you will also be graced by various Fig pastries in season.

Day 4: Barceloneta Beach Day!

After spending three consecutive days walking around, why not take a break and visit Barcelona's famous beach. Barceloneta is a great place to relax and dip in the Mediterranean Sea. On a sunny day, you can go and lounge around, tan or grab a few drinks (responsibly) with friends and let life do its thing.

Now you don't need to stay in there all day, but it's a great way to relax and get your body ready for a night out in one of Spain's best party cities. Trust me; you will need all the energy possible to keep up with the Spaniards because the party doesn't start until 1 am and ends around 7 am!!

Check out my Barcelona Nightlife guide for recommendations on where to go out at night!

Day 5: Do what you want.

Camp Nou:

Depending on when you decide to leave, you can choose to visit Barcelona's Football stadium (Soccer), Camp Nou. This famous stadium is almost sacred for the locals because it has been where many legendary players have walked the halls.

Mercat De Santa Caterina:

There is the Mercat De Santa Caterina. One of the city's best markets; a little less touristic than La Boqueria, but with more variety of products and stands. You can see more markets if you need more time to visit the stadium. Definitely worth a visit.

Ok, so that is your 5-day Barcelona itinerary. I hope you enjoy the city as much as I do. Stay alert for pickpockets, especially around the Parc Güell area. Make sure to share this site with any friends, and any feedback is appreciated! Safe travels, and thank you for reading!

Cheers!