2-Day Barcelona Itinerary

Barcelona is a vibrant city and is one of the top tourist destinations worldwide owing to its lively culture and amusement activities. 

What attracts tourists the most are the colorful beaches, impressive architecture, and other activities. More than a limited stay is needed to explore and absorb the beauty of this city; however, plan to feel and discover the city’s soul.

The Via Laietana atmosphere revived me upon my two days’ arrival last year and set the tone for an amazing journey. 

With just a weekend to spare, I have crafted an itinerary that allows you to slowly take in the city’s soul. Let’s explore Barcelona and make the most of our time in this energetic city.

Day 1 of my Itinerary to Barcelona

I always felt enthusiastic about starting a new journey, so I was excited for my first day in Barcelona. After a cozy sleep, waking up in my beautiful room at Hotel Lloret Ramblas energizes me for a lovely day ahead. Other hotel options that I found feasible include:

• Travelodge Barcelona Poblenou
• Gaudi Hotel
• Colón Hotel Barcelona
• Hotel Nouvel

Here, I have shared my experience at different places I visited on Day 1 of my visit to Barcelona:

1- La Rambla

For many travelers, La Rambla is the preliminary point they identify with the city. There are several architectural marvels, skillfully crafted flower shops, and highly skilled (and certified) human statues along this tree-lined promenade. 

I fell in love with the Mercat de la Boqueria tapas places, which are often regarded as Europe’s best gourmet food markets. I enjoyed the most delicious cuisines on this street. You can also get a guided tour of La Rambla.

Although it is well known for having an absurd amount of pickpockets and tourist-focused eateries with subpar paella, there is still a lot to see and enjoy. 

Everyone who comes to Barcelona should take a stroll down La Rambla, or rambler, as the locals call it.  

2- Gothic Quarter

This place has a very special place in my heart. It is considered the oldest area of Barcelona, and it consists of small squares and streets with Gothic cathedrals, palaces, and homes that all reflect the city’s medieval heritage. 

I walked along the charming neighborhoods of the Gothic Quarter. It is lined with medieval structures, including the Gothic churches of Santa Maria del Pi and Sant Just i Pastor, the palaces of the Generalitat and City Hall, and the Barcelona Cathedral. 

Whenever you visit some country, try to explore the local cuisines there. I was delighted to enjoy food at Barcelona’s oldest restaurant, the Gothic Quarter. Here, the menu was full of Spanish and Catalan dishes.

3- Casa Batllo

After exploring some famous streets, I headed towards the famous building present in the centre of Barcelona, known as Casa Batllo.

For a moment, I was captivated by the exterior structure of the building. The amalgam of different shapes and colors gives this place a unique look. 

The Batllo family owned Casa Batllo and had Gaudi modify the older building to a new one. The interior resembles an underwater castle’s inner design, while the exterior almost has a resemblance of a dragon.

The audio tour greatly enhanced the amazing intricate nature and mystical ambience of the location, which already left me in awe. It is amazing. 

4- Casa Mila

Casa Mila is located a few meters away from Casa Batllo. I came to know that this place is also a masterpiece of Gaudi. I got the admissions ticket to Casa Mila and explored it.

Walking around the exterior, Casa Batllo has a more captivating design than Caso Mila, which has a roof made of unusual shapes.

Also, I found the ticket here far more expensive than Casa Batllo, which could be too high on my budget. So, I prefer Casa Batllo or Casa Mila. 

5- El Raval or El Born

After a long, enjoyable day of exploring and roaming through the streets of Barcelona, I crave a delicious meal. For dinner, I chose a guide to visit El Raval. 

El Born’s irresistible appeal and lively environment beckon as night falls and hunger sets in. This place is home to many historical sites, including the magnificent Santa María del Mar church and the well-known Picasso Museum. 

El Born offers a wide range of tempting options for supper and beverages, making it the ideal place to savor Barcelona’s cuisine while taking in the local atmosphere.

With this, my day 1 ended, and I headed towards my hotel for a sound sleep, as there was a lot to explore on Day 2. Keep reading!

Day 2 of my Itinerary to Barcelona

On Day 2, I wanted to explore something more magical and related to history. For this, I decided to take a guided tour of La Sagrada Familia. Here’s how I spent my Day 2:

1- La Sagrada Familia

As we set off on my Barcelona tour, the anticipation grew for my visit to the Sagrada Familia, the city’s crown jewel and a testament to Gaudí’s legacy. 

The structure is a landmark of human skill and artistic vision, and it deserves to be the symbol of Barcelona and the most visited monument in all of Spain. 

The Sagrada Familia is incomplete because of Gaudí’s premature death, but its beauty challenges construction schedules and time constraints. I was taken to a world of ethereal beauty that was unlike anything I had ever seen when I stepped inside. 

Reaching the top of its towers provided an amazing view over Barcelona, a modern and historically rich city. 

The Sagrada Familia Museum added more context, shedding light on the history and significance of the cathedral. 

2- Park Güell

The two kilometers from Sagrada Familia to Park Guell are swiftly covered as the sun sets. The mosaic tiles in the park greet me with a rush of vivid colors, and the strange building seems like it belongs in a fairytale. 

I will always remember the amazing view of Barcelona from the mosaic terrace. Every part of this vast, creative, and imaginative playground offers something fresh to be amazed at. I chose a guided visit to Park Guell with the benefit of a line ticket, which helped me a lot.

Hours go by before I realize it, and I’ve barely begun to experience what Park Guell has to offer. Time appears to stand still there, discoveries are made around every corner, and the wonder of Gaudi’s vision comes to life.  

3- Barcelona Beaches

Being a beach person, how could I miss visiting there while being in Barcelona? It was on my list before even visiting Barcelona. 

Barcelona has beautiful beaches, a delicious food scene, an array of mountains, and a rich cultural heritage are just a few of its many attractions. 

A day by the sea is a must for every trip to Barcelona. Even if it might be too cold to swim in the autumn, taking a leisurely walk along the promenade is a tranquil way to end your two days in Barcelona.  

After exploring the city, you must enjoy the peace of Barcelona’s beaches. While Barceloneta Beach attracts large crowds, Bogatell has a more understated charm that provides a window into local life away from the bustle. 

La Rambla del Poblenou attracts everyone with its various bars and gelato shops. It offers an elegant retreat for a refreshing relief from the heat. 

It’s a Wrap!

So, here is the end of my two-day itinerary to Barcelona. More than two days are needed to discover this beautiful city. However, it’s better than nothing. 

Barcelona’s captivating charm, lively culture, and rich history have captivated me. This metropolis entices exploration and rewards an interest everywhere it shows up. 

I will always cherish my memories as I say goodbye to this magical city. Barcelona’s warmth and beauty have made an eternal impact on me, and I do not doubt that I will return one day to carry on with this amazing voyage of exploration. Till then, Adiós Barcelona.