3 Days in Barcelona: Gaudí, Tapas & Sea
Barcelona is a sensory overload in the best way. Three days lets you hit the Gaudí masterpieces, get lost in the Gothic Quarter, and still have time for sangria by the beach. It's a city of color, late nights, and architecture that defies gravity.
Day-by-Day Snapshot
Gaudí's City
Sagrada Família and Park Güell.
Old City
Gothic Quarter, El Born, and the Picasso Museum.
Sea & Montjuïc
Barceloneta beach and the magic fountain of Montjuïc.
- •Eating on Las Ramblas (overpriced and bad food).
- •Not buying Sagrada Família tickets weeks ahead.
- •Expecting dinner before 8pm (kitchens open late).
- •Calling it 'Barca' (that refers to the football team, not the city).
May/June or September (Summer is hot and humid).
Bunkers del Carmel for the best city view.
- Eixample: Upscale, safe, and near Gaudí sites.
- El Born: Historic, artistic, and trendy.
Getting Around
Get a T-10 ticket (€11.35 for 10 rides). Metro runs 5am-midnight weekdays, 24hrs weekends. From El Prat Airport: Aerobus is €5.90, R2 train is €4.60.
Where to Eat
Tapas after 8pm. Avoid Boqueria Market restaurants (tourist markup). Cervecería Catalana for tapas, Cal Pep for seafood. Churros at Granja M. Viader.
Common Questions
Is Barcelona safe?
Generally yes, but pickpocketing is common. Watch your bags on the Metro and at La Rambla.
Can I do a day trip?
Montserrat monastery is 1 hour away and stunning.
Beach or city first?
City in the morning (cooler), beach in the afternoon.
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