20 Fun Things to Do in Barcelona On a Girls Trip
Planning a girls trip to Barcelona? You couldn’t have chosen a better place!
From sunny beach days and stylish boutiques to incredible food and nights out that last until sunrise, Barcelona is full of fun ways to spend time with your friends.
In this guide, I’m sharing my top recommendations for things to do in Barcelona that will make your girls’ trip one to remember. Let’s get into it!
Best Things To Do in Barcelona on a Girls Trip
Here are my top recommendations for things to do in Barcelona on a girls trip:
Sample delicious tapas and Spanish wines while exploring Barcelona’s lively food scene with a local guide.
Cruise along the Barcelona coastline on a relaxing sailing trip with drinks, music, and stunning sea views.
Learn how to make Spain’s most famous dish in a high-energy class led by local chefs, along with unlimited cava!
1. Take a Tapas & Wine Tour
Kick off your girls trip with a Tapas & Wine Tour by Devour Tours. It’s a fun way to get a taste of Barcelona’s food culture while exploring the city together.
You’ll visit several local tapas bars, sampling authentic Spanish dishes paired with wine, cava, and vermouth.
Along the way, your guide will share stories about the city and lead you through the Gothic Quarter for a short walking tour.
It’s the perfect mix of great food, drinks, and local insight that sets the tone for an unforgettable trip.
2. Go On a Sailing Adventure
Another fun thing to do in Barcelona with your friends is join a Barcelona sailing tour for an afternoon out on the water.
You’ll cruise along the coastline, take in beautiful views, and enjoy the sea breeze with a glass of cava in hand.
Most tours include drinks, snacks, and music, so it’s an easy and fun way to relax and spend time together. I’ve done this with friends and it was such a blast!
And if you’re visiting Barcelona in the summer, bring your swimsuit since many tours include a stop for swimming in the Mediterranean.
You can also consider booking a private yacht charter if you want an upgraded experience.
3. Take a Paella Cooking Class
If you’re looking for an experience that’s equal parts fun and delicious, sign up for a paella cooking class at The Paella Club.
I’ve done it more than once, and it’s always such a blast!
The class has a very upbeat, social vibe with unlimited cava flowing from start to finish.
You’ll team up in pairs to cook different types of paella, guided step-by-step by the chefs. And once everything’s ready, everyone sits down together to enjoy the dishes family style.
It’s definitely one of the best paella cooking classes in Barcelona, and it’s especially fun with a group of friends.
4. Visit the Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is a must-see for anyone visiting Barcelona. Construction has been ongoing for more than 140 years and the completion date was announced for 2026!
Designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, this basilica is unlike any other. Its intricate architecture and towering spires will likely leave you in awe.
Inside, the stained glass windows cast a mesmerizing glow among the forest-like atmosphere.
If you want to go inside, you’ll need to book your tickets online in advance on the official Sagrada Familia website. Tickets are only available about 2 weeks out so make sure to book early!
If you’re not able to secure tickets online, Sagrada Familia tours are also available from various tour companies in the city.
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5. Explore Park Güell
Park Güell is another of Gaudí’s masterpieces and a great spot for a girls’ day out. This whimsical park is filled with colorful mosaics, winding pathways, and incredible views of the city.
Start your visit by exploring the Monumental Zone, where you’ll find the famous mosaic lizard and the serpentine bench. Then, wander through the gardens and take in the natural beauty.
It’s a great place for photos and definitely one of the most Instagrammable spots in Barcelona!
Entrance tickets are limited and have a timed entry, so be sure to book in advance on the official Park Güell website.
6. Go Shopping in El Born
El Born is one of Barcelona’s trendiest neighborhoods and is one of the best places to go shopping in Barcelona with your friends. Its narrow streets are lined with chic boutiques, art galleries, and unique shops.
Start your shopping spree at Carrer de la Princesa, where you’ll find a mix of local designers and international brands.
You’ll find cute jewelry stores, leather handbags, and unique clothing pieces that make for great Barcelona souvenirs.
After a day of shopping, take a break at one of El Born’s many cafes and bars.
7. Have a Beach Day in Barceloneta
No girls’ trip to Barcelona is complete without a beach day in Barceloneta.
This lively neighborhood is home to the city’s most famous beach, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the Mediterranean, and enjoy beachside cocktails.
Start your day with a stroll along the promenade, where you’ll find plenty of beach bars (known as xiringuitos) and restaurants.
Grab a spot on the sand with your own beach blanket or chairs can be rented from some of the beachfront restaurants.
For lunch, head to one of Barceloneta’s seafood restaurants, like Xiringuito Escriba or Salamanca. Enjoy fresh seafood paella and a glass of sangria while taking in the ocean views.
8. Tour the Gaudi Buildings
Gaudí’s influence is everywhere in Barcelona, and touring his buildings like Casa Batlló or Casa Mila is a must.
Start with Casa Batlló, a stunning modernist building with an exterior that looks like it’s made of bones and a rooftop that resembles a dragon’s back.
Next, head to Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera. This building’s wavy stone facade and unique chimney pots make it a true architectural masterpiece. Be sure to visit the rooftop for amazing views of the city.
If you have time, check out Casa Vicens, a lesser-known but equally impressive Gaudí creation.
Tip: If you’re really interested in Gaudí or just want to make things easier, check out my recommendations for the top Gaudí tours in Barcelona.
9. Stroll the Stalls at La Boqueria
No trip to Barcelona is complete without a visit to La Boqueria, which is one of the most famous markets in Barcelona, located on La Rambla.
Wander through the stalls and sample some of the best foods in Barcelona like fresh fruit, cured meats, cheeses, and seafood. Be sure to try some jamón ibérico, a delicious Spanish ham that’s a local specialty.
Tip: Lookout for Ibérico ham that is Black Label (Pata Negra) 100% acorn-fed for the best quality and flavor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a seat at one of the market’s bars like Quim or Bar Boqueria and enjoy a freshly prepared meal.
You’ll also find extravagant candy displays and a variety of snacks and prepared foods. You will probably be overwhelmed by all the options!
10. Grab Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
Barcelona’s rooftop bars are the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. With stunning views and delicious cocktails, they’re a great spot for a girls’ night out.
One of my favorite spots is the rooftop at the Barcelona Edition Hotel in the El Born neighborhood, which has great views and a really chic atmosphere.
Another great option is the Terrassa de Vivi rooftop at the Kimpton Hotel, where you can enjoy creative cocktails while taking in the views of the Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral.
Rooftop bars can be very busy (especially in summer) so it’s best to try and make a reservation beforehand.
11. Visit the Flea Market at Els Encants
For a unique shopping experience, head to the flea market at Els Encants.
This is a permanent flea market under metal canopies with vendors selling antiques, vintage clothing, and quirky finds.
Some of the stuff can be a little junky but if you dig deep you can usually snag some unique finds.
The market is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.
12. Get Permanent Bracelets in El Born
Another fun thing to do with your friends in Barcelona is get permanent bracelets, which make a unique and memorable souvenir from your trip.
This jewelry trend involves welding a delicate chain around your wrist, creating a bracelet that you can wear forever.
There are several jewelry shops in the El Born neighborhood that offer this service, like I Wear Dolls.
You just have to choose your favorite chain and charm, and then the jeweler will expertly weld it onto your wrist.
13. Go Clubbing Til Dawn
The nightlife in Barcelona is legendary, and a girls’ trip is the perfect excuse to hit the clubs and dance the night away.
The city is home to some of the best clubs in Europe, with world-class DJs and a huge party scene.
Start your night at a trendy bar like Paradiso, a hidden speakeasy that’s ranked among the best bars in the world.
Then, head to clubs like Pacha or Opium, where you can dance until the early hours of the morning.
Clubs in Spain don’t get busy until around 2 or 3AM, so pace yourself and be prepared for a long night of partying!
14. Go on a Cava Day Trip
Cava (Spain’s version of champagne) is a must-try while in Barcelona.
For a fun and educational experience, take a day trip to the nearby Sant Sadurní d’Anoia region, where you can tour the facility and learn about the production process.
I went on a day trip to Solá Raventos, which included a tour of their production facility and a tasting of their delicious cavas.
It’s family-owned and operated and was a great experience! It’s perfect for a girls’ day out, as you can easily take the train from Barcelona and get to taste some incredible cava.
15. Take the Funicular to Tibidabo
For stunning views of Barcelona, take the funicular to Tibidabo, a mountain that overlooks the city.
At the top, you’ll find Tibidabo Amusement Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world that’s still functioning.
The park offers a mix of classic rides and modern attractions and it’s not just for kids. There’s the iconic ferris wheel, roller coaster, swings, and some more thrilling rides that are still fun for adults.
After exploring the park, visit the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, one of the most famous churches in Barcelona that sits at the summit. The panoramic views from here are simply unbeatable.
16. See a Traditional Flamenco Show
Experience the passion and energy of flamenco with a live show in Barcelona.
Flamenco is a traditional Spanish dance that combines powerful movements, soulful singing, and intricate guitar playing.
Several venues in the city offer flamenco shows, ranging from intimate tablaos to grand theaters.
Some of the best places to catch a performance are at City Hall Theater and Tablao Cordobes.
17. Get Drinks at a Secret Bar
Barcelona is home to several hidden speakeasies, where you can enjoy creative cocktails in a unique setting.
One of the most popular is Paradiso, a hidden bar located behind a pastrami sandwich shop.
You’ll step through the fridge door and into a world of whimsical decor and expertly crafted cocktails—this bar has been rated as one of the best in the world!
Another great spot is Dr. Stravinsky, a lab-themed bar that serves up inventive drinks with a touch of molecular gastronomy.
These secret bars offer a fun and exclusive experience, which make them perfect for a girls’ night out.
18. Wander Around the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is one of Barcelona’s most intriguing areas, full of narrow streets, old buildings, and hidden plazas waiting to be found.
Spend some time getting lost in its maze of streets and stopping in local shops and restaurants along the way.
Be sure to stop by Barcelona Cathedral (the second most famous church in Barcelona) and then head over to Plaça Reial, a beautiful plaza lined with palm trees and restaurants.
Wrap up your walk with a glass of wine or a cocktail at one of the neighborhood’s inviting outdoor bars.
19. Rent Row Boats at Parque Ciutadella
If you’re looking for a fun break from sightseeing, head to Parque de la Ciutadella and rent one of the little row boats on the lake.
It’s such a pretty spot to hang out with friends, especially on a sunny afternoon.
You can paddle around, laugh at each other’s rowing skills, and enjoy the peaceful views from the water.
When you’re done, take a quick walk over to the Arc de Triomf or stop by the Monumental Fountain nearby for some great photo spots.
20. Indulge in a Spa Day
After days of walking, sightseeing, and late nights out, a spa day is exactly what you’ll need.
Barcelona has some amazing spas where you can unwind and feel completely refreshed.
One of the best options is Aire de Barcelona, set inside a beautiful old mansion in El Born. The candlelit pools and soothing atmosphere make it feel like ancient times.
Book a massage or soak in the thermal baths and let yourself fully relax before heading back out to explore the city again.
Final Thoughts
Barcelona truly has it all with amazing architecture, incredible food, and nights that never seem to end.
From exploring Gaudí’s iconic creations to soaking up the sun by the beach, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with your friends.
I hope this guide gave you some ideas to plan the ultimate girls getaway to Barcelona.
No matter how you spend your time here, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip!
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