Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary: Must-See Sights and Hidden Gems


Are you planning a trip to Spain and wondering how to make the most of your 3 days in Barcelona?
As a travel blogger that lives in Barcelona, I’ve curated the perfect 3 day Barcelona itinerary that not only covers the must-see sights but also uncovers hidden gems that only insiders know about.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to experience Barcelona like a pro—from iconic landmarks to secret spots off the beaten path.
Whether you’re here for the architecture, the food, or the atmosphere, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get started on your unforgettable 3-day adventure in Barcelona!
Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary
Here’s a breakdown of my 3-day Barcelona itinerary, complete with must-see sights and hidden gems, perfect for those staying in Barcelona for the first time:
Day 1: Explore the Historic Center
Day 1 in Barcelona is all about exploring the heart of Barcelona and seeing some of the city’s most famous landmarks–with time for tapas and sangria of course!
Barcelona Day 1 Itinerary at a Glance:
- Churros for Breakfast
- Stroll La Rambla
- Sample Foods at La Boqueria Market
- Plaça Reial & Barcelona Cathedral
- Shop in Gothic Quarter & El Born
- Picasso Museum
- Dinner at Tapeo
- Drinks at Paradiso
- Performance at Palau de La Musica Catalana (Optional)
Churros for Breakfast at La Pallaresa Xocolateria Xurreria
Start your first day in Barcelona with a true local favorite—churros con chocolate at La Pallaresa Xocolateria Xurreria. I know it might sound odd to have churros for breakfast but it’s not uncommon in Spain!
This no frills, old-school café in the Gothic Quarter is famous for its crispy churros served with a thick, rich hot chocolate that’s perfect for dipping.
It’s a great spot to immerse yourself in the local breakfast culture. Just keep in mind that Spanish churros aren’t as sweet as the ones you might find in other countries, but they’re still delicious!


Stroll La Rambla
After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll down La Rambla, Barcelona’s most famous street.
There’s always something happening on this pedestrian promenade, with street performers, flower stalls, and souvenir shops lining the way.
While it can be a bit crowded and touristy, it’s still worth a visit to get a feel for the city. And you can easily pop into a side street to discover quieter, more authentic corners of the city.
Just make sure to keep a close eye on your belongings while out and about. Barcelona is a safe city but La Rambla is a tourist hotspot and one of the most popular spots for pickpocketing.

Sample Foods at La Boqueria Market
Just off of La Rambla, La Boqueria Market is an absolute must-visit for food lovers. This local market is next level and is packed with fresh produce, local delicacies, and so many different kinds of tapas and snacks.
Try out some of the most famous foods in Barcelona like jamón ibérico, fuet, and traditional Spanish cheese. They’ve also got colorful rows of fresh fruit juices, mountains of candy, and sweet and savory treats.
You can simply browse the stalls or grab a quick bite at one of the small tapas bars inside. Bar Boqueria is one of the most popular spots with bar seating and surprisingly good food!
Tip: Barcelona is a pretty cashless city so you can pay for almost everything with credit cards, even for small purchases at La Boqueria.


Plaça Reial & Barcelona Cathedral
After La Boqueria, make your way over to the beautiful Plaça Reial, a lively square lined with palm trees, charming cafes, and historic lampposts designed by Gaudí.
It’s the perfect spot some people-watching and they normally have street performers and vendors selling local goods.
From there, head to the nearby Barcelona Cathedral, one of the most famous churches in Barcelona, and a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
The inside is just as impressive as the exterior, and if you’re up for it, take the elevator to the rooftop for beautiful views of the city.


Shop in Gothic Quarter & El Born
Spend the afternoon wandering through the narrow, winding streets of the Gothic Quarter and the adjacent El Born neighborhood, which surround the Barcelona cathedral.
These medieval-looking neighborhoods are full of unique boutiques, vintage shops, and artisan stores where you can find one-of-a-kind Barcelona souvenirs.
I love the custom jewelry shops like I Wear Dolls, as well as the handbags, leather goods, and designer clothing stores.
And don’t miss exploring the hidden courtyards and historic alleyways—you will probably get lost but it’s fun to stumble upon something unexpected!


Picasso Museum
If you’re an art lover, you won’t want to miss the Picasso Museum, located in the heart of El Born. It’s one of my favorite art museums in Barcelona and a must-see if you’re into contemporary art!
The museum houses one of the most extensive collections of Picasso’s early works, giving you some interesting insights into the artist’s development and his connection to Barcelona.
The museum is also set in a medieval building, which adds to the experience. To avoid long lines, consider booking your tickets online in advance or visiting later in the afternoon when it’s usually quieter.

Dinner at Tapeo
For dinner, head to Tapeo, one of the best tapas bars near the Gothic Quarter that is located right next to the Picasso Museum.
The menu offers a modern twist on traditional dishes, from patatas bravas and croquetas to Iber-burgers and truffled eggs.
I had the Iberian pork ribs with honey and mustard and they were falling-off-the-bone delicious! Don’t forget to pair one of the sangria pitchers with your meal as well.
It’s a very small restaurant so you’ll definitely want to make a reservation or go early in the evening to beat the crowds.

Drinks at Paradiso
Cap off your evening with a drink at Paradiso, one of the best speakeasies in Barcelona that’s even been voted as one of the best bars in the world.
This cocktail bar is known for its creative, visually stunning drinks with unique glassware and over-the-top garnishes.
The ambiance is cozy and stylish, and the drinks are definitely an experience like you’ve never seen before.

Performance at Palau de La Musica Catalana (Optional)
If you want to add a bit more culture to your trip, consider catching a performance at the Palau de La Musica Catalana.
This concert hall is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an architectural masterpiece–both the interior and exterior are absolutely stunning!
They do a variety of nighttime performances there from classical music and opera to guitar trios and flamenco shows. Check the schedule in advance, as you’ll need to purchase tickets.

Day 2: Barcelona Architecture Tour
Day 2 in Barcelona is all about exploring the city’s impressive architecture. From stunning cathedrals to iconic Gaudí masterpieces, you’ll be amazed by the unique blend of styles and creativity found throughout the city.
Barcelona Day 2 Itinerary at a Glance:
- Breakfast at Eat My Trip
- Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, or Casa Amatller
- Stroll Passeig de Gràcia
- La Sagrada Familia
- Lunch at Compa – Gracia
- Park Güell
- Bunkers del Carmel (Optional)
- Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
- Dinner at Harry’s or La Selva
Breakfast at Eat My Trip
Start your second day with breakfast at Eat My Trip, a trendy café in the Eixample neighborhood known for its Instagram-worthy dishes and specialty coffee.
The menu is a mix of healthy options and indulgent treats, so whether you’re in the mood for avocado toast or a stack of fluffy pancakes, you’ll find something to love.
Try not to go too heavy though because you’ll want to save room for all the delicious food later in the day!

Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, or Casa Amatller
Barcelona is synonymous with Antoni Gaudí’s architecture, and you can’t leave without visiting at least one of his masterpieces.
Located on Passeig de Gràcia, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà (also known as La Pedrera), and Casa Amatller are some of the most famous buildings in Barcelona.
Casa Batlló and Casa Milà were designed by Antoni Gaudí and the lesser well-known Casa Amatller was designed by the architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch.
You can either stroll by to get a view of these magnificent houses from the street, or pay for a guided tour to see the inside.
Tickets are slightly cheaper if you book online but can also be purchased once you arrive. The architecture and interior design of these buildings are really incredible.



Stroll Passeig de Gràcia
After exploring one of the architectural wonders, take a leisurely stroll down Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona’s most elegant avenue.
Lined with upscale boutiques, modernist buildings, and chic cafes, it’s kind of like the grown-up, luxury version of La Rambla.
You can find both designer stores and popular clothing retailers, but it’s also just a nice area to take a walk and people-watch.

La Sagrada Família
No trip to Barcelona is complete without visiting La Sagrada Família, one of the most famous monuments in Spain and Gaudí’s most renowned yet unfinished masterpiece.
The basilica showcases an awe-inspiring blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, with intricate details and stained glass windows that will leave you speechless.
To explore inside, purchase your tickets on the official Sagrada Família website at least 2 weeks in advance. Tickets have a timed entry, so plan ahead before your trip!
I also recommend buying tickets to ascend one of the towers for an even closer look at this incredible structure.


Lunch at Compa – Gracia
After Sagrada Familia, I’d recommend heading to Compa – Gracia on the way to Park Güell.
Located in the more residential Gracia neighborhood, this Italian sandwich shop has some of the best sandwiches in Barcelona.
I’ve tried a lot of sandwiches here and these are definitely my favorite! It’s a casual, counter-serve style restaurant and you can choose from their menu of paninis on fresh focaccia bread.
I love the Sibari sandwich with mortadella, sun-dried tomatoes, provolone, and pesto. You really can’t go wrong with any of the options–just be prepared for a bit of a line!

Park Güell
After grabbing your sandwich, head up to Park Güell, another of Gaudí’s iconic creations that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Barcelona.
This whimsical outdoor park offers stunning views of the city, colorful mosaics, and playful architectural elements that make it feel like something out of a fairy tale.
You’ll get to see the famous mosaic dragon known as “El Drac”, as well as Gaudí’s famous curved bench covered and colorful gingerbread-looking houses.
The area is a bit hilly so it’s a bit of a hike to reach the park if you arrive on foot, but the effort is well worth it!
To visit Park Güell, be sure to purchase tickets in advance on the official website. Since the tickets require a timed entry, you’ll want to coordinate this with your Sagrada Familia tickets.


Bunkers del Carmel (Optional)
If you’re up for a little adventure, make your way to the nearby Bunkers del Carmel, a former anti-aircraft bunker that now offers one of the best panoramic views of Barcelona.
It’s a bit off the beaten path, but the 360-degree views from the roof of the bunker are unbeatable. Bring some drinks or snacks and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you take in the city from above.
It’s a favorite spot among locals around sundown, and you’ll see why once you’re there.

Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
After a full day of exploring, head back into the city center and unwind with a drink at one of Barcelona’s best rooftop bars.
The city is famous for its rooftop terraces, which offer stunning views, along with food, music, and cocktails.
Some of my favorite rooftops in Barcelona are the Terrassa de Vivi rooftop at the Kimpton Hotel and the Barcelona Edition Hotel in El Born.
Order a refreshing cocktail like an Aperol Spritz–or my new favorite is the Hugo Spritz! Or if you want to try something signature to Barcelona, try a glass of cava (similar to champagne) or vermouth.

Dinner at Harry’s or La Selva
For dinner, head to a nicer restaurant like Harry’s or La Selva, both of which offer an inviting atmosphere and delicious food.
Harry’s is known for its Italian cuisine–I ordered the pasta carbonara and it’s served in a decadent cheese wheel!
As it names suggests, La Selva has a jungle-like atmosphere with trees and swings for chairs, serving steak and seafood dishes on a small hot plate at the table.
Whichever you choose, you can expect a memorable meal with great service and a warm ambiance. Be sure to make a reservation, as both spots are popular and will likely be booked up!


Day 3: Ciutadella Park, Beach, and Montjuïc
Day 3 in Barcelona is all about enjoying the outdoors, while getting some of the best views of the city.
Barcelona Day 3 Itinerary at a Glance:
- Breakfast at Lato-Born
- Stroll Ciutadella Park
- Beach Time at Barceloneta or Nova Icaria Beach
- Paella at Xiringuito Escriba
- Take the Port Cable Car to Montjuïc
- Visit the Montjuïc National Palace
- Cable Car to Montjuïc Castle
- Drinks at Salts
- Dinner at El Xampanyet
Breakfast at Lato-Born
Kick off your third day in Barcelona with breakfast at Lato-Born, a cute café in the El Born neighborhood.
Known for its innovative breakfast dishes, eggs benedict, and unlimited mimosas, it’s the perfect spot to start your morning.
The menu features a variety of breakfast options, from light bites to hearty dishes, so you’ll find something to suit your appetite.

Ciutadella Park
After breakfast, head to Ciutadella Park (Parc de la Ciutadella), one of Barcelona’s largest and most beautiful green spaces.
This park is a favorite among locals for its lush gardens, serene lake, and impressive monuments, including the iconic Cascada fountain.
It’s a very pretty place to take a leisurely stroll, rent a rowboat, or simply relax on the grass. They also do Latin dancing on Sundays in the park!
You’ll also want to take a short walk up to the Arc de Triomf, one of the most famous monuments in Barcelona just outside of Ciutadella Park.


Beach Time at Barceloneta or Nova Icaria Beach
No visit to Barcelona is complete without some beach time–or least taking a stroll along the beachfront promenade!
Barceloneta Beach is the most popular beach in Barcelona, but if you want something a bit quieter, I’d recommend Nova Icaria Beach, which is just north of Port Olimpic.
If you’re visiting in the warmer months, you can enjoy a couple hours of sun, sand, and sea.
You can either bring your own beach blanket or there are bars and restaurants lining the beach and some offer lounge chair rentals.

Paella at Xiringuito Escribà
For lunch, treat yourself to some of the classic Spanish paella at Xiringuito Escribà, a beachfront restaurant known for its delicious seafood dishes.
The paella here is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the setting couldn’t be more perfect, with views of the Mediterranean as you dine.
It’s a popular spot, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially if you want a table with a view. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or sangria for the full Barcelona experience!
Tip: Paella is typically a lunch time food in Spain so you’ll want to enjoy it during the day rather than for dinner!

Take the Port Cable Car to Montjuïc
After lunch, make your way to the Port Cable Car (San Sebastián Tower), which offers a scenic ride from Barceloneta to Montjuïc, a park and hilltop with panoramic views of the city.
The cable car ride itself is an experience, providing stunning views of the city and the coastline as you ascend. It’s a great way to transition from the beach to the mountain.
Once you reach Montjuïc, you’ll have plenty to explore, from the beautiful gardens to the museums and historic sites.

Visit the Montjuïc National Palace
Once you’re on Montjuïc, don’t miss the Montjuïc National Palace, home to the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC).
The palace itself is a stunning piece of architecture, and the museum inside houses an impressive collection of Catalan art, spanning from the Romanesque period to the early 20th century.
Even if you’re not an art enthusiast, the building and the panoramic views from the terrace are worth the visit. And the stairs leading up to the palace are the perfect spot for a photo op!
⛲️ Unfortunately, the popular Magic Fountain at Montjuïc is temporarily closed, as the city is under a drought.

Cable Car to Montjuïc Castle
Continue your exploration of Montjuïc by taking the second cable car up to Montjuïc Castle–one of the best castles in Barcelona.
This historic fortress was a strategic part of the city’s defense for centuries and has now been turned into a museum.
You can pay to go inside, or you can just walk around the castle grounds to see the incredible views of the city and the sea.


Drinks at Salts
After returning on the cable car from the Montjuïc castle, head over to Salts, a casual bar and restaurant down the street from the cable car station.
This bar overlooks the Olympic swimming pools and the entire city of Barcelona–offering some of the best views in the city!
It’s definitely a hidden gem and a great spot to relax with a drink after walking around all day. They have a full bar and food menu with bar food.

Dinner at El Xampanyet
End your day with dinner at El Xampanyet, a popular tapas bar in El Born known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Catalan dishes.
The menu features a wide range of tapas, from jamón ibérico to anchovies in vinegar, all served in a cozy, bustling setting.
The house cava is a must-try, and the staff is always happy to make recommendations if you’re not sure what to order.
It’s a great place to get your last taste of Barcelona’s local cuisine and toast to an unforgettable trip!


How to Get Around in Barcelona
Now that you know some of the best things to do and see, you might be wondering how to get around in Barcelona.
Fortunately, Barcelona is a very walkable city so you will most likely be able to walk to a large majority of the sites on this Barcelona itinerary.
For destinations that are further away, you have the following options:
- Public Transportation: Barcelona has a great public transportation system, including buses, metros, and trams. You can purchase single tickets or multi-day passes at the machines at any metro station. You can also consider purchasing the 3-Day Hola Barcelona Card, which gives you unlimited rides on all public transportation, or the Barcelona Card for free transportation and discounted attractions.
- Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Another option is to take the Barcelona Hop-On Hop-Off bus to get around the city. They have many different routes that go to the most popular tourist attractions.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in the city and are a quick, convenient, and safe way to get around. Barcelona taxis are black and yellow in color and the green light will be illuminated if they are vacant. Fares are metered and pretty affordable, and credit cards are accepted for payment.
- Ride-Sharing Services: Uber in Barcelona is available although it’s usually pretty difficult to find a ride. I’d recommend downloading the FreeNow or Cabify app, as those are more common and you can also request a regular taxi.

Final Thoughts: 3 Days in Barcelona
I hope this itinerary has inspired you and given you some ideas for how to make the most of your 3 days in Barcelona!
Even if you can’t make it to everything on this list, I think if you can catch some of the major sights like Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and La Boqueria market, you’ll still get a good taste for the city.
Just be prepared for a lot of walking and always keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
I hope you enjoy your time in Barcelona and get to experience all the amazing things to do and see!
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