Barcelona architecture

Not Sure What to See in Barcelona? Check Out Our Awesome Guide

The eyes work tirelessly while exploring new places, constantly darting from side to side and up and down, trying to take in all the dazzling sights and scenery.  Maybe you’re a history buff who gazes in awe of ancient buildings or an art connoisseur who stares diligently at art displays to interpret their meaning.  Perhaps you’re an outdoors expert who is constantly gaping at the sight of breathtaking mountains… or you prefer to bask in the sun and watch the waves roll onto the beach.  Whatever you like to see, Barcelona has the perfect attraction for you!  Investigate sights that interest you or discover a new passion within the vast list of what to see in Barcelona!

Arts, Architecture, and History

As a region that can be traced back to the 2nd century, Barcelona has a rich history as well as spectacular art and architecture that developed throughout the years.  These are just a few highlights of Barcelona’s most famous museums and monuments.  (Also something to keep in mind: all city-run Barcelona museums are free on Sundays!)

Joan Miro´ Museum: Learn about the famous Joan Miro´ and observe rare paintings and exhibits in this unique museum.

Barcelona City History Museum (MUHBA): Study ancient artifacts as you discover more about Barcelona’s history and how it has developed since its founding.

Modernista Art and Architecture: Many modernista architects, such as Antoní Gaudi, have left their mark in Barcelona in the form of countless, breathtaking buildings all across the city for the public to admire.

Barcelona Ramblas: Once a rushing river, this significant part of Barcelona is now the most famous street in the city, filled with businesses, historical sites, restaurants, markets, and more!

Hiking

Since it is a city surrounded by hills, Barcelona is home to many beautiful hiking trails.  If you love the outdoors, lace up your hiking boots and investigate these magnificent scenes of nature.  

Montjuïc mountain: This towering hill, which historically served as a defense for the city, now contains gardens, parks, hiking trails, and even cable car rides to view the city from above!

Collserola Park: An ideal area for biking, this park has picturesque views of the city, the Mediterranean, and the countryside.

Montserrat: View the famous Montserrat monastery before hiking the peak of this mountain, which is known for possessing the best view of Catalonia.

Pyrenees & Montseny Mountains: You should reserve an entire day trip to fully appreciate what these mountains have to offer; you’ll find countless parks, trails, and views of the mountains as well as ancient towns and buildings.

Beaches

The beaches of Barcelona are truly a sight to behold.  Over four kilometers long, these beautiful beaches are spread along the Mediterranean and include multiple coastal towns and marketplaces to explore.  Many of these areas have a thriving nightlife as well, making these beaches a must on the list of what to see in Barcelona!

Sant Sebastià: The longest and arguably the most popular beach in Barcelona, Sant Sebastià stretches 1,100 meters long and possesses many sporting clubs for sea-related activities.

Nova Icària: Closeby to the Olympic Marina, this beach has a wide variety of restaurants in its adjoining town, offering some of the best Barcelona cuisine.

Mar Bella: This active and bustling beach is best known for its watersports.  Visitors and locals alike here can be seen windsurfing or kayaking; there’s also a perfect area for joggers and cyclists.

Barceloneta: The oldest beach in the area, Barceloneta is known as Barcelona’s classic neighborhood by the sea, where people from far and wide come to enjoy seafood in this traditional fishing district. 

Come and Stay with Us at bizFlats!

Now that you know all about what to see in Barcelona, check our availability and book a vacation with us today!  We offer a variety of different penthouses, studios, apartments, lofts, and villas, all designed for you to get more living space for less money than a hotel.

Photo by Rick Ligthelm / Flickr

 

6 of the Best Beaches in Barcelona

6 of the Best Beaches in Barcelona

Though Barcelona has always been on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, it wasn’t always known for its lively beach culture. The beaches in Barcelona used to be almost entirely industrial space so they weren’t the most inviting destinations. As the city prepared to host the 1992 Summer Olympics, the governing powers began to reconsider Barcelona’s identity as a Mediterranean cultural center and decided to start cleaning up its beaches. Barcelona has since been known as one of Europe’s most recommended beach destinations where turquoise waters and white sand rub up against an epicenter of culture, history, and architectural beauty.

With a mild climate, it is always appropriate to spend a day at one of the most beautiful beaches in Barcelona, no matter what time of year you’re visiting. One of the best things to do in Barcelona is to visit our spectacular Barcelona beaches, even in October!

The Best Beaches in Barcelona

1. Barceloneta Beach

This is one of the most famous beaches in Barcelona, as it is the most centrally located to frequently visited areas of town like Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter. Although it will certainly be the most populated stretch of sand in the city, it is often the most entertaining with numerous seafood restaurants, and Port Vell to explore with its museum and IMAX theater. La Champaneria is one of the most popular places to grab some tapas, a bottle of cava and simply hang out at a beach bar.

2. Mar Bella Beach

This is the place for a party. Not only is this one of the only specifically nudist beaches in Barcelona, but it is also home to the windsurfing center. Mar Bella Beach is a popular hangout for gays and lesbians and is known for its Sunday night raves throughout the summer.

3. Bogatell Beach

Slightly northeast of the city center, this beach is significantly more quiet and clean than the Barceloneta stretches right downtown. It is accessible by the Metro and is about a fifteen-minute walk from the Bogatell Metro Station. This beach is known for its great accommodations and laid back atmosphere. It’s a great place for a truly relaxing day at the beach.

4. Ocata Beach

If you want to get out of the city and to a real pristine and quiet beach destination, head north to Ocata in the town of El Masnou. It’s a half-hour trip by train and is worth every minute. Not only is the train ride beautiful, but the beach is a haven of golden white sand and plenty of space to spread out and play.

5. Sitges Beach

This is one of the most popular day trips to make from Barcelona. The train ride there is less than 45 minutes south the from the center of Barcelona, and drops you off in one of the most popular beach towns in the Barcelona area, with stretches of well populated beaches and a bustling town center around them offering every amenity you might be looking for during your day at the beach.

6. Nova Icària Beach

A very peaceful beach,  Nova Icària Beach, is close to the marina and features plenty of facilities for beach activities like beach volleyball and table tennis.

The variety of beaches in Barcelona and its surrounding towns make this Mediterranean city the perfect beach destination for you next vacation. If you’re traveling here on business, take a break from your work to hit the beaches, some of the most famous Barcelona attractions, and look into these beachside short term rentals right in the city.