DID I CHANGE MY TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN BARCELONA?

The length of time you will be in Barcelona will dictate what you have time to see and how long you will be able to spend at each location.  

I wrote a post in 2016 on TOP PLACES TO SEE IF YOU ONLY HAVE 1 DAY IN BARCELONA

If you only have a short period of time to visit (for example, you arrived by cruise ship), you should purchase tickets for the hop-on-hop-off bus and see as much as possible. 

Even if you plan to be in Barcelona longer, I still suggest you see the city by bus and you have the luxury to get off at any location that catches your eye.

SAGRADA FAMILIA

I finally made it to see the Sagrada Familia! Even though it was packed with people, I absolutely loved experiencing this stunning architectural masterpiece. It’s truly a must-see when visiting Barcelona.

No landmark defines the city quite like Gaudí’s still-unfinished basilica. Its soaring towers and vibrant stained-glass windows make it breathtaking both inside and out. Be sure to book your tickets in advance—there’s a reason it’s Barcelona’s most in-demand attraction.

You can read more about visiting the Sagrada Familia HERE.

The MNAC (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya) sits atop Montjuïc, known for its grand architecture, sweeping staircases, and some of the best panoramic views in all of Barcelona. It’s a place I was excited to revisit—the views are absolutely incredible, and I truly consider it a must-see. A storm was rolling in, so we couldn’t stay long, but it remains one of the city’s most stunning vantage points.

MERCADO DE LA BOQUERIA

            

And we come to the first place that I consider a "must see" that was not mentioned in previous visits. 
I did mention the tree-lined street of Las Ramblas in a past post and you should still stroll this avenue but while there, take the time to visit the market. 

The Boqueria, is one of Europe's largest and most famous food markets and is located in the Ciudad Vieja district.  You can read more information about the market HERE.

GOTHIC QUARTER

Lose yourself in the labyrinth of medieval streets, hidden squares, and ancient Roman ruins. The Gothic Quarter is home to the stunning Barcelona Cathedral, charming boutiques, and atmospheric tapas bars.

The Gothic Quarter is still my favorite part of the city. I’m obsessed with the architecture, and the food scene is incredible—perfect for someone like me who plans trips around what to eat next.

Check out these posts for more information on the Gothic Quarter.

If you are a chocolate lover, you must visit Fargas.

NATIONAL ART MUSEUM OF CATALONIA 

Housed in the grand Palau Nacional atop Montjuïc, the National Art Museum of Catalonia is one of Barcelona’s most impressive cultural institutions. Its collection spans over a thousand years of Catalan art—from Romanesque frescoes and Gothic altarpieces to Modernist masterpieces.

Inside, you’ll find stunning exhibitions, but the museum is just as famous for its panoramic terrace views overlooking Plaça d'Espanya and the Magic Fountain. Even if you’re not a museum buff, the architecture and vistas alone make it worth the visit.

It rained on and off during our visit, and we even heard a few rumbles of thunder. As soon as the storm rolled in, the fountains were turned off, so the views weren’t quite as picturesque as they were on our last trip.

You can read more about the MNAC HERE and see why I list it as a "must see."

OLYMPIC STADIUM (Vila Olímpica)

There is a bus stop at the Olympic Village so if you have time, stop for a few minutes and at least, look around.

PARK GUELL

I finally made it to Park Guell.  We did not purchase tickets to go inside of the park (the Monumental Zone)  but there was still a lot to see even without the tickets.

PLACA CATALUNYA

If you like art, check out the Picasso Museum.

If you like music, check out Palace of Catalan Music.

If you like castles, check out Montjuïc Castle.