shopping
El Quim de la Boqueria
This is the ultimate market-to-table experience. Pull up a stool at the counter, order the fried eggs with baby squid, and watch the chaos of the market unfold around you.
Barcelona Travel Guide
Barcelona is a sun-drenched Mediterranean metropolis where Gothic mystery meets the whimsical architectural genius of Antoni Gaudí. It serves as the vibrant capital of Catalonia, offering a perfect blend of historic charm, world-class beach life, and an incomparable culinary scene.
About Barcelona
Founded as a Roman city called Barcino, Barcelona evolved through the Middle Ages as a powerful center of maritime trade in the Crown of Aragon. Its historical trajectory has been defined by a resilient spirit and a constant push for cultural autonomy, leading to periods of significant architectural transformation.
The city lives and breathes the Catalan identity, characterized by a unique language and a deep appreciation for art and architecture. Residents embrace a relaxed pace of life, centering around lively social gatherings in plazas, elaborate late-night dinners, and the celebrated tradition of 'tapas culture'.
Practical info
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
Catalan and Spanish
Time zone
Central European Time (UTC+1)
Climate
Mediterranean with mild, humid winters and warm, dry summers
Quick facts
- Barcelona's iconic Sagrada Família has been under construction for over 140 years, taking longer to build than the Great Pyramid of Giza.
- The city's famous beaches were actually man-made and didn't exist for public use until the city underwent major renovations for the 1992 Olympic Games.
- The Gothic Quarter contains remnants of the ancient Roman walls that once protected the original city of Barcino.
- Barcelona has a specific style of dance called the Sardana, which involves people joining hands in a circle to perform precise, rhythmic steps.
Top things to do in Barcelona
The 15 attractions, museums, viewpoints, and experiences travelers visit most.
nature
Mercat de la Concepció
Known as the 'Flower Market', this is a beautiful, less-touristy market in Eixample. It’s great for fresh produce and a quick, local bite.
shopping
Mercat de Santa Caterina
The local alternative to La Boqueria. It’s just as beautiful, much less crowded, and has fantastic stalls for a quick, high-quality lunch.
wellness
Granja Viader
A true Barcelona classic that has been serving families for over a hundred years. You come here for one reason: the thick, rich hot chocolate served with melindros (ladyfingers).
food
El Xampanyet
A legendary, bustling tapas bar that feels like stepping back in time. It’s famous for its homemade cava and classic tapas—don't be intimidated by the crowd, just push your way…
shopping
Sant Jordi's Day Book and Rose Stalls
On April 23rd, the entire city transforms into a romantic, open-air bookstore and flower market for the traditional Diada de Sant Jordi. It's a magical day to stroll the streets,…
museums
Casa Batlló
Climb up to the roof to see Gaudí's famous dragon-back spine and those iconic, colorful chimneys up close. It’s the best spot to get a unique perspective of the city skyline, so…
wellness
AIRE Ancient Baths Barcelona
A stunning, candlelit thermal bath experience set in an 18th-century warehouse. It’s the ultimate way to reset your nervous system after days of walking.
food
The Paella Club
Skip the tourist traps and learn to cook the real deal. This is an interactive, high-energy cooking class where you'll master the art of the perfect socarrat (the crispy bottom…
landmarks
Harlem Jazz Club
The oldest jazz club in the city and a total vibe. It’s tucked away in the Gothic Quarter and has hosted live music every single night since 1987—it's intimate, sweaty, and…
music
Palau de la Música Catalana
A masterpiece of Catalan Modernisme, this concert hall is a symphony of stained glass, mosaics, and intricate ironwork. It is one of the most beautiful performance spaces in the…
wellness
Oasys
Calling itself a 'creative sanctuary of sound,' this new spot in Sant Antoni is a dream for vinyl and music lovers. It's a perfect, intimate space to catch local DJs, browse…
landmarks
Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia
This imposing Gothic cathedral serves as the spiritual heart of the city, featuring a stunning cloister inhabited by thirteen white geese. The intricate stone carvings and the…
wellness
Termas Bonay Wellness
A unique urban rooftop wellness experience with a thermal circuit including a sauna, hammam, and cold plunge. It’s a fantastic way to relax with a view.
culture
Bosc de les Fades
A quirky, fairy-tale-themed bar located inside the Wax Museum. It’s a bit touristy, but the atmosphere is genuinely unique and fun.
Where to eat in Barcelona
5 restaurants, cafés, and food spots — local picks, not tourist traps.
Brunch
Federal Cafe
This Australian-style spot in Sant Antoni is perfect for a long, lazy brunch on their rooftop terrace. It’s a great place to park yourself with a laptop or…
Tapas
Quimet & Quimet
This tiny, century-old family tavern is packed to the rafters with wine bottles and serves some of the most inventive montaditos in the city. It is…
Tapas
La Cova Fumada
This is a true, no-frills Barceloneta institution that has been run by the same family since 1944, with no sign on the door and a kitchen that smells like…
Healthy
Flax & Kale
This is a bright, plant-forward spot that makes eating healthy feel like a treat rather than a chore. It is the perfect place to recharge with a fresh juice…
Mediterranean
Aràbia Restaurant
A reliable spot right off Las Ramblas where you can grab a solid mix of Middle Eastern mezze and even a decent paella. It’s perfect for when you need a break…
Plan a trip to Barcelona
Pick a length and we'll lay out the days — walkable routing, restaurants, opening hours included.
Nearby destinations
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Barcelona?
The currency in Barcelona, Spain is Euro (EUR).
What language is spoken in Barcelona?
Catalan and Spanish is the primary language spoken in Barcelona.
What's the weather like in Barcelona?
Mediterranean with mild, humid winters and warm, dry summers
How many days do you need in Barcelona?
Most travelers spend 2–5 days in Barcelona. With 60+ attractions and 12+ noteworthy restaurants, three days hits the highlights, while five lets you dig into neighborhoods and day trips. Use the Periplo iPhone app to lay out a day-by-day plan.
What are the must-see things to do in Barcelona?
Top picks include La Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, La Rambla, Gothic Quarter.
Plan Barcelona in your pocket
Open the Periplo iPhone app for a day-by-day itinerary, offline maps, and live event picks tuned to your taste.
Download on the App Store