Summer might be coming to an end, but there's still time to catch the last rays and collect new memories! A weekend trip to Barcelona might be just what you need. Barcelona combines great food, unique sights, and the best weather in late summer.
In this guide, you'll find the best hotels, activities, and sights in the city, plus some insider tips from our team.

Sights

If you’ve never been to Barcelona, these sights are a must because they are landmarks. The buildings designed by the famous artist Antoni Gaudí influence the city to this day, so it's not surprising that some of the city's most famous monuments were built by him.

Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is probably Gaudí's most famous creation. Construction of the Roman Catholic basilica in the Eixample district began in 1882 by Antoni Gaudí and continues to this day. He never got to see his masterpiece in its full glory, as he tragically died in a tram accident before its completion.

The basilica is breathtaking and can be seen from all over the city. You can relax in the small park in front of the church's entrance doors and let its beauty wash over you. You shouldn't miss seeing the inside of the Sagrada Familia though, you'll be amazed at how spectacular it is. Learn more about the history of the Sagrada Familia Basilica on a guided tour.

Park Güell

View over Barcelona from a terrace in Park Güell
Park Güell is located in the north of Barcelona, in the district of Gràcia, and was also designed and built by Gaudí. Due to the park’s hilly terrain, the architect had to create reinforcements for retaining walls and terraces, which you can find even today and make the park so special. In more secluded corners, the park merges with its natural surroundings, providing the perfect place to wind down and have a great view of the city.

With a guided tour you will learn all about the park’s creation and discover its beauty.

Montjuïc

You can see Montjuïc from all over the city, but it's even better if you explore it up close. With the guided walking tour you will start at Plaça d'Espana and along the way discover the National Art Museum Catalunya, the Olympic Stadium, a botanical garden, and finally the Castell de Montjuïc - a castle on top of the mountain.

La Rambla

People walking on La Rambla in Barcelona
La Rambla is one of the most famous streets in Barcelona and is bustling at any time of the year. As a car-free zone, you can stroll in the middle of this avenue from Plaça Catalunya to the port. However, keep a close eye on your things, because this place is brimming with pickpockets. Don't miss the Gothic Quarter, which neighbors La Rambla. This is the perfect opportunity to get to know the old town of Barcelona and the buildings will take your breath away.

Restaurants

Full table of Spanish Tapas
One of the healthiest cuisines in the world is probably Mediterranean cuisine. In a city like Barcelona, you are bound to find numerous restaurants with excellent food. Tapas, of course, are a must in this Spanish city.

If you want to try a variety of different tapas, we recommend this private and personalized tapas tour, where you will get to sample the best tapas restaurants in the city with a local.

Would you rather go on your own? Here are some of our tips:

  • Sensi Tapas
  • Bodega La Puntual
  • Casa Lolea (here you can get insanely good sangria)

Nightlife

Group of friends cheering with Mojito in a Bar
Bar culture is important in Barcelona. Almost every local meets with friends after work in a bar to end the day. Immerse yourself in the culture and discover the most authentic places in Barcelona.

In the mood to go dancing after a few drinks in the bar? The Catalan capital is home to several clubs where you’re bound to have an unforgettable night.

In the summer, you’re likely to find many great festivals in and around Barcelona on the weekends.

Champagneria Can Paixano

With authentic Catalan flair, you can taste fresh tapas and drink delicious and affordable cava at the small Champagneria Can Paixano. Here, you will feel like a local. After your visit, make sure to take a bottle of rosé cava home with you.

Rooftop Terraces

Barcelona has some spectacular rooftop terraces where you can look out over the entire city. To save you some time, we've compiled a list of the best:

  • Barcelo Raval
  • Iberostar
  • Hotel Colon
  • Hotel Catalonia Barcelona Plaza

Berenjenal

Bar Berenjenal is located just a few minutes' walk from Plaça Universitat, in the Eixample district. It's not too popular amongst tourists, so you won't be overrun here. The trademark of the bar is the delicious mojitos with a lot of variations. From the classic mojito to strawberry and even mango, you'll find them all here for an unbeatable price.

George Payne

Located on Plaça Urquinaona, the Irish Pub George Payne is very central. Although it’s not typically Spanish, the atmosphere is always great. People gather here to watch soccer matches, have a slow drink, or participate in famous karaoke parties on Thursdays and Sundays. The staircase to the upper floor serves as a stage here and fun is always guaranteed.

Clubs at the Barceloneta Beach

If you’re not tired after your bar tour and still want to dance, you will find numerous clubs on the Barceloneta beach promenade. Among others, you will find Opium, Shôko, and Pacha. However, be prepared for a long queue.

Hotels

Barcelona has a wide variety of hotels, whether luxurious or budget, buzzing or quiet, you are sure to find your dream hotel here. Check out our list of 3 hotels in different price ranges within the city center.

Ronda House

Ronda House is a 3-star hotel in the center of the city. From here you can walk to most places in the city, but you also have the advantage of being perfectly connected to the public transport network. The hotel is modern and you can choose one of the 86 rooms and enjoy your stay in Barcelona to the fullest.

Hotel Condes de Barcelona

The elegant 4-star Hotel Condes de Barcelona is located on Passeig de Gràcia, one of the city's main shopping and business areas. Originally a 19th-century palace, the hotel now has a beautiful rooftop terrace overlooking the Passeig de Gràcia and the Sagrada Familia, as well as an outdoor pool. The architecture is very special and the design modern. Enjoy dinner at the two Michelin-starred restaurans.

El Palace

Last but not least, we would like to introduce you to the 5-star Hotel El Palace in Eixample. This is the epitome of luxury and is sure to make you feel (as the name suggests) like you’re living in a palace. The large, sumptuous common rooms are reminiscent of royal ballrooms. Immerse yourself in the magical world in one of their 125 rooms.

Insider tips

Looking to experience Barcelona like the locals? Then you’ll definitely find the right adventure for your trip with these insider tips.

Carmel El Bunkers

Sunrise on the coast of Barcelona from Bunkers El Carmel
Well-known among locals and expats, soak in the breathtaking view of the whole city on the mountain Turó de la Rovira, located in a former bunker. It is best to come here in the early hours of the morning, to see the sunrise on the coast.

Castelldefels

In the mood to experience the beach? Skip the city's crowded Barceloneta beach, and take the train a few stops out of the city. In about 30 minutes you'll reach Castelldefels, a quiet and local beach town where you can enjoy the sea to the fullest. The mountains in Castelldefels are also ideal for a nice hike.

Hike to Tibidabo

View on the Cathedral and mountain of Tibidabo in Barcelona
Tibidabo is a mountain in the north of Barcelona and is home to a small amusement park and the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor, or the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a fascinating and stunning church. You can take a cable car close to the top, but we recommend hiking through the breathtaking nature that leads to the top of the mountain. Start at the foot of the mountain and take in incomparable views along the way.

Gràcia

The Gràcia district is beautiful and authentic. Over here, you no longer feel like a tourist, but like a local. Walk through small streets and admire the charming houses and artworks along the way.

Whether you’re looking to discover one of ourinsider tips or famous landmarks, we recommend walking to your destination as often as possible. In this way, you’ll get to know the city from a completely different angle and discover quiet and idyllic corners like never before.

What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head out to make new memories!