How to Spend Four Days in Barcelona Spain
Are you planning a trip to Spain and wondering how much time to spend in Barcelona?
What are the best things to see and do? How should you create your itinerary to make the most of your trip?
Use this guide to plan your four-day adventure to Barcelona, Spain!
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A trip to Spain wouldn’t be complete without a visit to beautiful Barcelona. Here you will find plenty of interesting sights and activities to enjoy. A nicely thought-out itinerary will ensure that you make the most of your time, have a realistic plan and stay within budget. You’ll also be able to book entrance tickets and reserve accommodations in advance.
As tempting as it can be to have a jam-packed itinerary, it’s best to prioritize must-see destinations. Give yourself enough time to discover the highlights, but remember you won’t be able to see everything Barcelona has to offer. Have some flexibility built in to your itinerary for unforeseen circumstances, such as inclement weather or longer than expected queues at popular attractions.
This guide is structured to provide an overview of the best activities, historical sites, museums and cultural experiences that can be accomplished during a 4-day visit. Adjust accordingly to suit your own travel timeline, budget and personal preferences.
How Many Days to Spend in Barcelona
Do you prefer to pack in as much as possible in a short period of time or travel at a more leisurely pace?
Are you visiting in the summer when there are plenty of daylight hours for exploring?
Are you travelling luxuriously or on a budget?
The main highlights of Barcelona can be seen in four days. This is the perfect amount of time for first-time visitors spending an extended weekend in the city.
Barcelona is an essential stop if you are visiting Spain or if you are continuing on to see other parts of Europe.
Take into consideration your arrival and departure time when creating your itinerary. This guide assumes travellers have four full days available to explore. Even if you only have a short period of time, exploring Barcelona for a few days will certainly be worthwhile.
Barcelona – Four Day Itinerary
This itinerary has been created with the must-see highlights presented in a logical, geographical order. Follow this route to maximize your travel time and make the most of your budget. Some destinations you may choose to enter, typically by paying an admission fee. Others, your preference may be to view for free from the outside and just snap a quick photo.
Decide ahead of time which attractions you want to explore in more detail so that you can book entrance tickets prior to arrival. This will help you to better organize your day and to figure out if your itinerary is going to be jam-packed or more easy-going. Some travellers prefer the non-stop pace, while others would rather have a little down-time.
Although Barcelona is considered an affordable place to travel, it’s best to have an idea of how much things cost before you arrive. Costs for airfare, accommodation, meals and entertainment add up quickly if you are not prepared. Planning in advance is the best way to save money and to have an unforgettable experience. With so much to see in Barcelona, let’s get started!
Day 1 – Historical Heart of Barcelona
The majority of travellers arrive in Barcelona by air through Barcelona International Airport (BCN), also known as El Prat de Llobregat, or by train via the city’s main station: Barcelona Sants.
From the airport, board the Barcelona Aerobús which will transport you into the city centre in about 30-35 minutes. The shuttle bus runs 24-hours a day and costs €6.75 one-way or €11.65 for a return ticket.
From Barcelona Sants Train Station, board the metro to reach central Barcelona. Consider purchasing a Barcelona Card which includes unlimited travel on Barcelona’s public transportation system.
Once you have arrived in Central Barcelona, check into your accommodation. If you have arrived prior to check-in, ask your hotel/hostel staff if there is a secure place to store your belongings. It’s time to start exploring the capital city!
Barcelona is a walkable city, but can be physically demanding as temperatures soar in the summer season. Fortunately, there is an excellent public transportation system (metro, bus) that can help make the trip a little easier. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tours are also available offering safe, affordable and convenient transportation around Barcelona.
Today you will spend time in the historical heart of Barcelona. Visit some of the city’s oldest landmarks in the Gothic Quarter. Taste delicious food purchased from the open-air market. Enjoy an afternoon relaxing on the Mediterranean coastline, at Barceloneta Beach.
Start today’s adventures by making your way to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.
1. Explore Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter
Barri Gòtic is the historic centre of the old city of Barcelona. The neighbourhood is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets with hidden corners and courtyards. Wander into the shadows of this medieval quarter discovering quaint boutiques and restaurants with sidewalk terraces.
Landmarks worth visiting here include the Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça Sant Felip Neri and Pont del Bisbe.
2. Stroll Las Ramblas
Las Ramblas is Barcelona’s wide, tree-shaded, pedestrianized street lined with shops, restaurants and cafés. This is the social heart of the city, where you can find a lively atmosphere overflowing with both locals and travellers, street performers and unfortunately opportunistic pickpockets.
Mercat de la Boqueria is a large public open-air market accessed off of Las Ramblas. Several vendors offer a variety of fresh meats, fish, fruit, vegetables, refreshing beverages and desserts. Stop here for a bite to eat! Wine and tapas tours are also available here.
3. Relax on Barceloneta Beach
Barceloneta Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand along the Mediterranean Sea where locals and travellers go to sunbathe, swim and socialize. As Barcelona’s most popular beach, the area is crowded, lively and endlessly entertaining.
Stroll the palm-tree lined promenade to find seafood restaurants, tapas venues and luxury yachts floating offshore. Beware that valuables left unattended on the beach are an easy target for thieves.
As the sun sets, meet up with friends or fellow travellers to discover Barcelona’s amazing nightlife. There are several pubs and bars to choose from. Enjoy it this evening or go back to your accommodation to rest and prepare for another full day of exploring tomorrow.
Day 2 – Discover Antoni Gaudi Architecture
Antoni Gaudi (1852 – 1926) was a Spanish architect who specialized in Catalan Modernism. Gaudi is known for his unique style and dramatic creations that have been decorated with brightly-coloured ceramics, stained glass and ironwork. Most of Gaudi’s masterpieces are located in the city of Barcelona.
Consider purchasing a Barcelona Card or the Gaudi Bundle for discounted admission and priority-access to Barcelona’s most famous Antoni Gaudi attractions. Otherwise, book entry tickets online well in advance as reservations often sell out, especially during peak tourist season.
1. Sagrada Familia
Dominating the Barcelona skyline, this unfinished basilica has become an iconic symbol of the city. Designed by local architect Antoni Gaudi, Sagrada Familia has been under construction for over 100 years. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features 18 soaring towers and a lavish exterior. Don’t miss your chance to step inside this piece of history!
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm. Sunday 10:30 am – 8:00 pm.
Cost: €26.00.
2. Park Güell
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site and Antoni Gaudi creation, Parc Güell is a vibrant and cheerful property featuring landscaped gardens, fountains, columns and staircases decorated with multicoloured ceramic tiles. Hilltop terraces offer panoramic views of Barcelona. Book entry tickets online well in advance and arrive promptly for your allotted time slot.
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30 am – 7:30 pm.
Cost: €10.00.
Purchase Park Güell entrance tickets here.
3. Casa Mila (La Pedrera)
Local architect Antoni Gaudi’s most famous residence in Barcelona, Casa Mila (La Pedrera), features a curved façade, rounded windows, metal balcony railings, decorative chimneys and a rooftop terrace viewing platform. Reserve tickets online in advance to access the interior features and rooftop terrace.
Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 11:00 pm.
Cost: €25.00.
Purchase Casa Mila entrance tickets here.
4. Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is a residential mansion, found in the heart of Barcelona (within the Eixample neighbourhood). This spectacular building is another Antoni Gaudi masterpiece of modernism. The mansion’s façade is decorated with broken glass and tiles creating an eye-catching mosaic. Like Casa Mila, be sure to reserve tickets online in advance to admire the interior details and access the rooftop terrace.
Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 8:00 pm.
Cost: €35.00.
Purchase Casa Batlló entrance tickets here.
Day 3 – Parc Montjuïc
Learn about the history of Barcelona with a visit to Parc Montjuïc. Explore the various greenspaces, museums, cultural and sports facilities that can be found here.
Access the park via Espanya Plaza, cable car or funicular railway. The hilltop offers stunning views over Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea.
1. Botanical Gardens
Enjoy a walk through the Botanical Gardens. Mediterranean plants from all over the world are on display. From here, you can also enjoy beautiful views over the city of Barcelona.
Opening Hours: Open/closing times depend on the season. Check out the official site for details.
Cost: €5.00
2. Joan Miró Foundation
Located in the peaceful setting of Parc Montjuïc, this museum explores the life of the great Spanish artist, Joan Miró.
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Cost: €14.00
Purchase your museum entrance ticket here.
3. National Museum of Catalan Art
The National Museum of Catalan Art looks like a royal palace, built upon Montjuïc hill. The museum displays 1000 years of art history in Catalonia. Visit the permanent collection, temporary exhibitions as well as the rooftop viewpoint.
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm. Sunday & Public Holidays 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. Closed on Mondays.
Cost: €12.00
Free Access Hours: Free entry on Saturday after 3:00 pm. Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
4. Barcelona Olympic Stadium
Barcelona’s Olympic Stadium served as the main stadium for the 1992 Summer Olympic Games, able to seat 54 000 spectators.
Opening Hours: Open/closing times depend on the season. Check out the official site for details.
Cost: Free
5. Montjuïc Castle
Montjuïc Castle was built on top of Montjuïc hill in Barcelona in 1640. Tour the fortress grounds to admire the old stone architecture and beautiful gardens. Be sure to check out the entrance bridge, moat and watchtower. From the terrace and parade ground, you can look out over Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm.
Cost: €9.00.
Free Access Hours: Free entry on Sunday after 3:00 pm. Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
6. Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
Locals and tourists arrive at Espanya Plaza, at the foot of the National Palace in Parc Montjuïc, to enjoy a water fountain show set to music and brightly coloured lights. Magic Fountain showtimes vary depending on the season, so be sure to check the schedule in advance.
Cost: Free
After a long day of sightseeing, watching the Magic Fountain lightshow is a great way to enjoy your time in Barcelona as the sun sets!
Day 4 – Tibado Mountain
This morning, venture just outside the city of Barcelona to Tibado Mountain to appreciate the views from above. Once back in the city, it’s time to eat and drink on a tapas and wine tasting tour. End the evening by attending an authentic Flamenco Show.
1. Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Situated on the summit of Tibidabo Mountain, offering extraordinary views over Barcelona, is the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The temple is unique due to its elevation and location based outside of the city. The Tibidabo Amusement Park operates directly out front of the church. Reach the Tibidabo Mountain by funicular railway or shuttle bus.
Opening Hours: daily 10:30 am – 6:00 pm.
Cost: Temple & Crypt – Free; Terrace – €3.50.
2. Tapas & Wine Tasting Tour
Spain is one of the best places in the world to spend time wining and dining. The region is brimming with wine-producing vineyards and tapas bars. Tapas, traditionally known as small savory dishes, snacks or appetisers, are a staple of Spanish cuisine.
This afternoon, join a tapas and wine tasting tour to enrich your travel experience. Discover local-approved restaurants and try new flavourful foods. Enjoy drinks including wine, sangria, vermouth and cava.
3. Ciutadella Park
After filling up on delicious food and drinks, take some time to relax in Ciutadella Park. An oasis in the heart of the city, you can take a peaceful walk, admire the fountains and sculptures or even hire a row boat. Ciutadella Park is also where you will find the Barcelona Zoo & Arc de Triomf.
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 am – 10:30 pm.
Cost: Free
4. Attend a Flamenco Show
Flamenco is a Spanish art form comprised of dancing, singing and guitar playing. The performance is often very passionate and powerful, creating a deep connection between the entertainers and the audience. You won’t regret going to see a live Flamenco Show during your trip to Barcelona!
Depending on your schedule, you may have a final night at your accommodation before heading off to another part of the county or you may need to prepare for a flight home. Although it was a brief visit, you will leave Barcelona with memories that last a lifetime!
Start Booking Your Trip
Use the helpful resources below to start booking your trip to Barcelona, Spain!
- Reserve your accommodation with Hotels.com or Hostelworld.
- Book your rental car with Discover Cars.
- Book your flight with SkyScanner.
- Book tours with Get Your Guide.
- Traveling Solo? Book a Group Tour with GAdventures.
- Buy Travel Insurance with SafetyWing or World Nomads.
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Have any questions about planning your trip to Barcelona, Spain? Please share your questions or comments below!
