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What are the must-see sights in Barcelona? Today we bring you the best plans for a weekend in Barcelona, some of them free.
Let's be real from the start: if you get bored on a weekend in Barcelona, it's either because you want to be or because you're broke (which can also happen, hey).
That's a truer statement than the still-under-construction Sagrada Familia, because if there's one thing the Catalan capital has plenty of (besides public transport construction), it's things to do. Culture, food, music, parties... there's a plan for everyone.
So, take good note, because we're bringing you the best plans for this weekend in Barcelona, and some are even free, which is always a plus. Let's get to it!
If you're someone who truly enjoys art, the Picasso Museum is a must-see. Not only does it house one of the most important collections of the painter from Malaga, but it also allows you to see how his style evolved from his first sketches to his most famous works.
It's also located right in the middle of the Born neighborhood, so after your cultural tour, you can stroll through its narrow streets, discover hidden terraces, and browse souvenir shops for another fridge magnet or a little porcelain figurine for your mom or grandma.
If there's one market that sums up the essence of Barcelona, it's the Mercat de la Boqueria, right on La Rambla. Stalls with fresh-cut fruit, natural juices to cool off while you walk, cured meats, fish, sweets... a feast for the gourmets.
The best part of the Boqueria is that you don't just buy products; you also get to have a great experience. You can chat with the vendors, discover new ingredients, and if you're hungry, you can always sit down at one of the market bars and try some fresh tapas.
For those looking for a mix of history, nature, and breathtaking views, Montjuïc Castle has it all. You can get there by walking, by funicular, or, for those who aren't afraid of heights, by cable car with sea views.
Once you're at the top, you'll find beautiful gardens, walls with more history than a textbook, and a panoramic view of the city that puts the New York skyline to shame. Afterward, to refuel (especially if you walked up), it's time for the next plan.
Blai Street, in Poble-sec, is well-known among tapas and pincho lovers. The plan here is straightforward: go from bar to bar, order a couple of pinchos (often for just €1), and have them with a cold beer or a fresh vermouth.
The atmosphere is always lively, with locals and tourists sharing tables and bar space. It's an affordable, fun plan that's perfect for starting the night at 5 in the afternoon.
If you want a chill weekend plan, Parc de la Ciutadella is your refuge. This green lung in the heart of the city is ideal for an impromptu picnic, reading under the shade of a tree, or just lounging on the grass.
You won't get bored in the Ciutadella; street musicians, jugglers, or open-air yoga groups will surely liven up the moment. You can also take the opportunity to visit the Barcelona Zoo, which is right next door.
Along with Sala Apolo, Razzmatazz is one of the most iconic clubs in Barcelona. With its different rooms and musical styles, it's impossible not to find something you like, whether it's indie, pop, electronic, hip-hop, or reggaeton.
This party temple hosts international bands and renowned DJs, but there are also themed and more underground sessions. It's normal to leave Razzmatazz as the sun is coming up, which is the perfect time to have some churros with chocolate before going to bed.
Once a fishing village, Barceloneta has now become a bustling neighborhood, just like its beach. If you're into crowds and different languages, playing volleyball, jogging along the promenade, and cooling off with a swim in the sea, you've got a plan for your summer weekend in Barcelona.
And if you prefer something quieter, you just have to walk a little further to the Bogatell or Nova Icaria beaches, where the risk of getting a soccer ball to the head is slightly lower.
In the unlikely event that the Picasso Museum left you unimpressed, the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA) is another mandatory art stop. Its contemporary art exhibitions are always surprising and make you think about where we come from, where we're going, and when we started to like going to museums more than going to clubs—the existential questions we all ask ourselves after 30.
But be careful, the museum isn't the only interesting thing. The MACBA square is a meeting point for skaters, graffiti artists, and urban artists in general. There's nothing like sitting there with some beers bought from the supermarket, discovering the next Eminem or Drake.
Since you're at the MACBA, take the opportunity to take a good walk through the picturesque neighborhood of El Raval.
In just a few streets, you can find cuisine from all over the world at quite affordable prices, meet people from countries you didn't even know existed, and, if you have a good stomach and a better liver, try an absinthe in the traditional style at the historic Marsella bar.
Ignore the YouTubers who wear police vests and look at everyone as if they're going to ask for €1 for the subway. A neighborhood that houses the Filmoteca can't be a dangerous neighborhood. Geeky? No doubt. Dangerous? Not in the slightest.
On the other hand, if the "underground" isn't your thing and you prefer a more elegant and refined plan to show off on Instagram, the Palau de la Música Catalana is your place.
It's a modernist building, the work of Lluís Domènech i Montaner and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that will blow your mind just by walking in: stained glass, mosaics, and spectacular architecture.
If you also attend a classical music, jazz, or flamenco concert (all of which are typical Catalan music styles), the plan will be perfect.
To top off your weekend in Barcelona, here's a plan that will make the most carnivorous foodies' mouths water: trying (and being amazed by) the smash burgers at Hideout. It's no exaggeration to say they are among the most famous in the city: juicy meat, soft buns, and more combinations than Hansi Flick's Barça.
Plus, you can choose between their two locations, Hideout Poblenou or Hideout Eixample, depending on where your craving hits you. It's a perfect plan to grab a bite to eat before or after discovering everything Barcelona has to offer.
Eleven very different but equally fun plans. It doesn't matter if you're someone who likes to take it easy, party hard, eat until you burst, visit museums, or go to the beach or the mountains: this city always has something for you, without having to go broke.
So this weekend in Barcelona, you have a plan no matter what.
