When it comes to taking small or quick trips, it is ideal to try and fit everything in that is your priority. As a flight attendant, we typically have up to 2 days to tour our destinations, making us pros at taking quick trips. So, maybe you are just passing through the city, have limited time to travel, or are on a cruise visiting the city. Either way, getting the most out of your trip is what's important.
Barcelona was one of my first international trips, and I only had 1 day to explore it! So, I had to make the best of it. Since then, I have returned to Barcelona a few times and know I can narrow down the most essential things to do if you have less than two days there.
In Barcelona, I was most impressed by the unique architecture designed by Gaudi and its cuisine. There is nothing like walking down the streets of this beautiful city and eating all the Paella in the world. It is also rich in history, with many museums and churches to explore, thus making it a place with lots to do. So, if you can't narrow down what to do, my number one recommendation (and main one) is to take a hop-on hop-off bus around the city.
Transportation and Tours
I am a big advocate for using hop-on-hop-off buses when traveling. They provide transportation for most of the day at a low price, and you can see everything you want to see without exhausting yourself. For Barcelona, prices for the tour have changed, but you shouldn't pay more than $35. I have done this a few times in Barcelona, and trust me, this is the best way to see everything you want.
Must-see spots
Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous churches in the world. If you want to visit, buy your tickets early, as they sell out quickly.
Park Guell is one of the largest parks in the city. It requires tickets to enter, but it has some of the most unique architectural elements and offers a great view of Barcelona.
Walk through the center of Barcelona and see Casa Batlló, one of Gaudi's masterpieces.
Walk on the beach or get on a boat and enjoy the waters. Just be aware that the beaches get crowded, so it may be hard to find a spot.
Go to Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, a museum for art lovers.
Experience one of my favorite areas in Barcelona by walking around the Gothic Quarter. Its narrow streets and beautiful architecture is a must-see. Plus, you get to experience and enjoy the day-to-day life of the locals.
If you are a foodie, check out Mercat de la Boqueria, where you can shop and enjoy food markets.
You can see all these places through the Hop on Hop off Bus.
Where to Eat
As for food, this is probably my favorite part about visiting Spain; not only is the food delicious and fresh, but it is also affordable. Depending on where you go, it will be significantly cheaper to eat there than if you got that same item in the States! I have tried some unique dishes in Spain, and my all-time favorite is the paella, of course, and tapas. You can find thousands of good restaurants, but the ones I recommend the most are:
Agua – A seafood restaurant by the water.
KoKu Kitchen- A Japanese restaurant that locals swear by.
El National Barcelona- A Spanish seafood restaurant that offers tapas.
Vinitus- A restaurant that offers a wide variety of tapas. This is one of the first places I ate in Barcelona, and I've never forgotten it. Absolutely delicious!
All in all, no matter what you decide to do in Barcelona, the best approach is to make the most of it!
Check out other quick trip ideas!