Weekend in Barcelona, visits and activities

Enjoy an unforgettable weekend in Barcelona: discover a selection of activities and visits for a few days in the Catalan capital

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8 ideas for an unforgettable weekend in Barcelona

What if you left your daily routine for the sun and excitement of Catalonia?

Take a direct flight from Lyon to Barcelona and discover the treasures of the Catalan city!
Whether it's a romantic or family weekend, or a two- or three-day holiday, we have 8 ideas for activities and visits to discover one of the most beautiful destinations in Spain.

1. Walking along the Ramblas

Barcelona's emblematic avenue has also become the city's most touristy street. It is a busy street, and during the day it is an invitation to take a stroll in the shade of its plane trees. The pedestrian walkways are home to flower stalls, musicians and street performers, and the buildings that line the street are home to boutiques and souvenir shops. You can also schedule a break at the Mercat de la Boqueria. Located in the middle of the Ramblas, this fresh market reveals the richness of northern Spain's terroir.

Why go to the Ramblas? To discover a special atmosphere, between peace and excitement, and to savour the delicacies of the Escribà patisserie located at number 83.

2. Explore the Born neighbourhood

The trendy Born district is known for its restaurants, cafés and fashionable shops. The Basilica of Santa María del Mar, located in the square of the same name, is a magnificent testimony to the talent of the Gothic builders of the Middle Ages. Several museums and palaces can be discovered at the turn of a street, for a real immersion in history. Your discovery of this district will also be an opportunity to plan a shopping break during your weekend in Barcelona.

Why explore the Born area? For Casa Gispert, a dried fruit shop that has become an institution in Barcelona, and for the trendy boutiques.

3. Admire the spectacular houses of the Passeig de Gràcia

This long promenade of about 1.6 kilometres links the Plaça de Catalunya to the Gràcia district. An elegant, middle-class thoroughfare, Passeig de Gràcia is home to some of the most beautiful homes in the Catalan modernist style. Along Passeig de Gràcia you can admire Antoni Gaudí's Pedrera and Casa Batlló, Josep Puig i Cadafalch's Casa Amatller and Lluís Domènech i Montaner's Casa Lleó Morera.

Why go to Passeig de Gràcia? To admire the many buildings with surprising aesthetics.

4. Visit the Sagrada Família

Barcelona's most popular monument, the Sagrada Família, has contributed to the popularity of this destination beyond Spain's borders. Entrusted to the architect Antoni Gaudi in 1884, this ambitious project gave birth to a remarkable building, a symbol of the audacity of Catalan modernism. Still under construction today, the basilica continues to evolve to bring to life the dreams of the most important Catalan architect of the 19th and 20th centuries. The building is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Why visit the Sagrada Família? To discover a monument of stunning, graceful and majestic architecture.

5. Strolling through the alleys of Parc Güell

Are you fascinated by the works of Antoni Gaudi? Then a walk through the Parc Güell is a must! The architect created a treasure trove of gardens with a view of the entire city from a vantage point. The pavilions of the conciergerie, the sloping columns of the Sala Hipóstila, the colourful wavy bench and the Casa Museu Gaudí will take you from discovery to surprise.

Why walk the paths of Parc Güell? For the works of Gaudi, and for the spectacular view over the roofs of Barcelona, with the Mediterranean Sea in the background.

6. Walking by the sea

The lively metropolis near the Mediterranean Sea also has a tourist resort feel to it. Your weekend in Barcelona can include a walk along the seafront. Walking along the long beaches and quays at sunset invites you to relax and stroll. Staying in Barcelona in summer? Pack a swimming costume and beach towel and take a refreshing dip in the waves.

Why take a walk by the sea? For a romantic break during a romantic weekend.

8. Enjoying tapas as an aperitif

Many bars specialise in the preparation of tapas, an assortment of tasty recipes that can be shared with couples, families or friends as an aperitif or as a full meal. Would you like to try the best tapas in Barcelona? You can go to the Born, Gothic, Ramblas, Gràcia or Eixample districts.

Why try tapas in Barcelona? To experience the festive, generous and friendly soul of Barcelona.

Bonus. Find the right accommodation for a weekend in Barcelona

Are you staying one or two nights in Barcelona? By booking accommodation (hotel or holiday rental) in the Born, Raval or Gothic districts, you can easily visit the city. The main monuments and tourist attractions are within easy walking distance. The nightlife is very lively. Looking for a quieter place to stay? The Gràcia district offers you an authentic setting, less frequented by tourists. You can also opt for the Eixample, which is home to some of Antoni Gaudi's most beautiful buildings.

Would you like to discover the tourist treasures near Barcelona? You can easily rent a car, which is available when you get off the plane at Barcelona-El Prat International Airport (BCN).