An Irresistible 3 Day Itinerary Barcelona | 3 Days in Barcelona

Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia. The city is known for its art including the Picasso Museum and the futuristic architecture filled by the artist Antoni Gaudi. Antoni Gaudi is a famous architect from Spain who has created the most famous pieces in Barcelona like Park Guell, Casa Mila, Sagrada Familia and so much more. I was lucky enough to spend 4 days in Barcelona, but I have created this 3 Day Itinerary Barcelona with a bonus day trip.

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How to Spend 3 Days in Barcelona

So you are looking for how to spend 3 days in Barcelona? There are a lot of things you can do in Barcelona which makes this itinerary ideal for beginners and people who want to see as much as they can in this beautiful city. When I first created my Spain and Portugal Itinerary, I knew Barcelona had to be on the list.

There are a lot of Barcelona itineraries out there, but I wanted to include what we did during our 3 days in Barcelona. We went to all of the popular tourist sites to be able to see as much as we could in such a limited time. As someone who was working a full-time 9-5 job, traveling then was very limited in terms of time for me. Spending 3 days sometimes was the most I could afford to see. 

Tips for Travel in Barcelona Before we get started

Barcelona, renowned for its charm, experiences a surge in visitors, notably from June to September, resulting in longer queues and increased accommodation rates. To navigate this bustling period smoothly, I highly recommend pre-booking attraction tickets. This foresighted step will spare you extensive waiting times. Throughout this itinerary, I’ll furnish the necessary links for convenient ticket reservations.

In Barcelona, indulging in delectable cuisine ranks among the top experiences – from churros to paella we ate our hearts through Barcelona. As many of you know, I travel for food – my stomach leads the way. Frankly, we relished our meals almost as much as visiting iconic spots like Casa Batlló or the Sagrada Familia! However, we also failed – we found some of the worst restaurants catering to tourists out of sheer hunger and convenience. So to prevent that mistake, I’ve listed some of the best restaurants we encountered at the bottom.

There are a lot of things to do in Barcelona which makes it a great city to visit and perfect to visit Barcelona for 3 days. There’s food, culture, art, architecture, and so much more. If you want to see everything you can visit in Barcelona, check out these famous landmarks in Barcelona.

Let’s ensure your Barcelona expedition remains smooth and memorable!

What you will see during your 3 day Barcelona Itinerary

• La Sagrada Familia
• Casa Mila
• Casa Batllo
• Casa Amatler
• Park Guell
• Bunkers de Caramel
• Mercado de la Boqueria
• La Rambla
• Gothic Quarter
• Montjuic
• Picasso Museum
• Ciutadella Park
• Arc de Triomf

Other places to add to your Barcelona Itinerary

• Montserrat
• Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site
• Palau de la Música Catalana
• Plaza d’Espanya
• Barcelona Cathedral
• Montjuic Castle
• Barcelona Zoo
• Aqua Musuem
• Mirador de Colón
• Parc del Laberint d’Horta
• “The World Begins With Every Kiss” Mural
• Barcelona Food Tour

If you are interested in Soccer or Futbol, read more about taking a tour at Camp Nou, the stadium of FC Barcelona.

Barcelona Itinerary Day 1

For those with just a day in Barcelona, I highly recommend following this Day 1 Barcelona Itinerary. If time permits, don’t miss out on visiting Park Guell and La Boqueria, which I would add to this 1-day plan. Also, be sure to explore my curated list of the top 10 places to see in Barcelona.

La Sagrada Familia – Most Popular Barcelona Attraction

La Sagrada Familia stands as an architectural marvel and an enduring symbol of Barcelona, Spain. Designed by the visionary architect Antoni Gaudi, this extraordinary basilica combines Gothic and Art Nouveau elements, showcasing intricate facades adorned with symbolic sculptures and intricate detailing. Begun in 1882, La Sagrada Familia remains a work in progress, anticipated for completion in 2026, more than a century after Gaudi’s involvement.

Its towering spires, vibrant stained glass windows, and organic, nature-inspired forms within the interior create an ethereal atmosphere, captivating visitors with a profound sense of spirituality and awe. This UNESCO World Heritage Site continues to enchant and inspire millions of visitors annually, offering a testament to Gaudi’s innovative genius and the enduring spirit of architectural creativity.

La Sagrada Familia is one of the most beautiful sites worth visiting in Barcelona. This is one of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous architecture. The building may not be appealing from the outside – it may be too “Gaudi” for your taste, but once you enter you will be left stunned.

Pro Tip: I highly suggest you buy your tickets in advance to save time from the long lines and money. You want to guarantee access during your 3 days in Barcelona. Additionally, purchase all your tickets online and use your phone to scan the images to be entered in. Most places in Barcelona and most of Europe require tickets in advance. In Barcelona, you are required to select a time to show up for La Sagrada Familia and Park Guell. Tickets sell quickly, so be sure to buy in advance if you have a tight schedule.

Getting Here: Take metro lines 2 or 5 to get to the closest metro stop – Sagrada Familia.
Hours:

• November through February: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Sundays from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm.
• March and October: Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. Saturdays from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Sundays from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm.
• April through September: Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. Saturdays from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Sundays from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm.

Cost: The base ticket price is €26. To buy tickets to go up the tower base tickets start at €36. Tickets can only be purchased online or through the app. There is an option to buy a tour with an entrance ticket on GetYourGuide as well if a tour is something you are interested in doing.

Website: Check https://sagradafamilia.org/ for updated hours and to purchase your tickets online in advance.

Tours of the Sagrada Familia: There are a few guided tour options on GetYourGuide.

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Lunch

After visiting La Sagrada Familia, you probably will have worked up an appetite. There are a couple of options for places to try. 

Sagradas Tapas – A great place to get some tapas to share with people. You can easily enjoy dishes like albondigas, seafood paella, sangria, patatas bravas, salads, octopus, and more. It’s a great place to get a quick bite and drink before the siesta starts. 

Oporto Restaurant – Not Spanish food, but Portuguese. If you haven’t been to Portugal, you might be in for a treat with their delicious menu. Spain and Portugal border each other so often they have dishes that potentially influence each other. You might be pleasantly surprised with their home-cooked style dishes. 

There are also a lot of Italian restaurants within the area that are worth checking out if you have a picky eater on hand, but I figured if you are in Spain, you want to try more local cuisines. 

Casa Batllo, Amatler, and Mila

There are 3 famous apartment buildings in Barcelona, Casa Batllo, Casa Amatler, and Casa Mila. Casa Batllo and Casa Mila are both designed by Gaudi. Casa Amatller however, was designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, another well-known architect of modernism in Spain. 

These gorgeous apartment buildings are available to view, and you can choose to either purchase tickets in advance or wait in line and purchase tickets when you get there.  We arrived later in the afternoon and it did not seem busy which was good, especially for a high tourist month. You can choose to pay to visit each one or just choose one of your liking. If you only had the chance to see one of these casas I would choose between Casa Batllo and Casa Mila. 

All three of these houses/apartments are on the same street and within walking distance from each other. 

Getting Here: The nearest metro stations are Passeig de Gràcia (Green Line L3, Yellow Line L4, and Purple Line L2) and Diagonal (Green Line L3 and Blue Line L5).

Cost: Admission prices can vary based on different ticket options, such as standard entry, skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, or audio guides. Prices often range from around €25 to €35 per person, but they can vary depending on the season and any ongoing promotions. Children, students, and seniors might have reduced ticket prices or specific discounts.

Casa Batllo

An iconic modernist building in Barcelona, designed by Antoni Gaudí, featuring a whimsical and surreal façade with vibrant colors and organic shapes. 

Hours: Typically, Casa Batlló is open daily from early morning to late evening, generally from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM or sometimes extended during peak tourist seasons. During the winter months, they have late winter light shows worth seeing in the evening. 

Website: Click here for updated hours and to purchase your tickets online in advance.

Casa Mila

Another masterpiece by Gaudí, characterized by its undulating stone façade, rooftop terrace adorned with surreal chimneys, and innovative architectural design. Casa Mila was my favorite of the three because it’s the one I learned about in college.  Finally, it also has a gorgeous rooftop view of the city and la Sagrada Familia in the distance.

Hours: Casa Milà typically welcomes visitors daily from early morning to late evening, generally operating from around 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM

Website: Click here for updated hours and to purchase your tickets online in advance.

Casa Amatller

A unique modernist building designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, showcases a fusion of Catalan modernism and Gothic influences in its ornate facade on Passeig de Gràcia.

Hours: Casa Amatller typically welcomes visitors daily from early morning to late evening, generally operating from around 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Website: Click here for updated hours and to purchase your tickets online in advance.

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Dinner

Time for dinner. You can easily go to any tapas bar within Barcelona and enjoy some drinks, and tapas, and save some money. If you want a little bit more than that, you should try these restaurants. 

Vinitus – Vinitus has been praised for its bustling ambiance and a diverse selection of traditional Spanish small plates. This popular eatery typically offered a wide variety of freshly prepared tapas, including seafood, cured meats, savory croquettes, and other delightful bites, complemented by an extensive wine list. 

9 Reinas – “9 Reinas,” translated as “9 Queens,” is a popular Argentine restaurant located in Barcelona. Specializing in Argentine cuisine, particularly renowned for its high-quality grilled meats and traditional dishes, 9 Reinas offers an authentic taste of Argentina in the heart of Barcelona. 

Barcelona Itinerary Day 2

Park Guell

This is one of the most famous pieces after la Sagrada Familia. This impressive park is perfect to wander in. You should arrive early before your suggested time. That way you can explore other areas of the park prior to your ticketed time frame. It also takes some time walking into the park to enter which includes many Instagram-worthy areas within the park. This was one of the most breathtaking views we had in Barcelona and worthwhile. This was probably one of my favorite things to do on my 3 Day Itinerary Barcelona. Book your tickets to Park Guell here.

Getting Here: Park Güell is accessible by public transportation, with the nearest metro stations being Lesseps (Green Line L3) or Vallcarca (Green Line L3). Approximately, it’s about a 15-20 minute walk from the metro stations to the park, though taxis or buses are available for a more convenient journey.

Hours: The park generally operates from around 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM, with slight variations based on the season. During peak times, extended hours might be available to accommodate more visitors.

Cost: Admission to the monumental zone of Park Güell typically ranges from €10 to €22 for adults, while children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities might have reduced prices or free access. Tickets purchased online might have slight variations in prices compared to those bought on-site. Additionally, access to certain areas within the park might be free of charge.

Website: For the most current information regarding ticket prices, hours of operation, guided tours, and other details, you can visit the official website of Park Güell.

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Bunkers de Carmel

Bunkers el Carmel, also known as “Turo de la Rovira,” is a historical site in Barcelona renowned for its panoramic views of the city. Located atop a hill in the El Carmel neighborhood, these former military bunkers offer breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Barcelona, providing visitors with stunning views of iconic landmarks such as the Sagrada Família, the Mediterranean Sea, and the city skyline. 

This is a popular destination to visit during sunset and is a must for your 3 days in Barcelona. If you are looking for another gorgeous view of the city during your 3-day itinerary of Barcelona, visit Bunkers de Carmel. Furthermore, this beautiful viewpoint is perfect for sunset or night views of the city if you want to move it to your itinerary for later in the day. 

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Mercado de la Boqueria

This world-renowned market, with origins dating back to the 13th century, is a vibrant mosaic of colors, scents, and flavors. Here, locals and tourists alike converge to explore its diverse stalls teeming with fresh produce, delectable seafood, artisanal cheeses, aromatic spices, and a cornucopia of local Catalan specialties. The market pulsates with energy as vendors skillfully present their goods, inviting visitors to savor the essence of Catalan gastronomy. A sensory delight, Mercado la Boqueria offers an immersive experience, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry and culinary heritage of Barcelona.

La Boqueria is a covered outdoor market in Barcelona. Moreover, this is the best place to try all types of food, drinks, fruits, and desserts.  We also found the prices to be somewhat reasonable, it is a market after all and it was a great place to share a lot of small dishes. Additionally, you will have a hard time choosing which items to eat or try first.  On Sundays, the market is closed.  Finally, you can get all types of Jamon, Cheese, Mussels, Paella, and more. This is one of the most popular places to visit during your 3 day itinerary Barcelona.

I suggest grabbing lunch at Mercado la Boqueria – it’s the perfect location to grab lunch especially if everyone you are traveling with has different taste buds. Mercado la Boqueria is a market nestled in the vibrant heart of Barcelona along the iconic La Rambla, which stands as a bustling and iconic marketplace. 

Getting Here: The nearest metro station to the market is Liceu (Green Line L3).

Hours: Typically, Mercado la Boqueria operates from Monday to Saturday, starting early in the morning around 8:00 AM until late afternoon, closing around 8:00 PM. However, these hours might vary, so it’s advisable to check for the most current opening and closing times directly with the market or on their official website.

Cost: Entrance to Mercado la Boqueria is free of charge. Visitors can explore the market without paying an entry fee. However, costs for purchasing goods, food, or products within the market vary based on what you choose to buy.

Website: For the most up-to-date information, including hours of operation, special events, and additional details, you can visit the official website of Mercado la Boqueria.

Tours of La Mercado Boqueria: Guided tours of the market are available and highly recommended. These tours provide insightful information about the history, culture, and significance of the market, as well as offering visitors a chance to taste various local products and delicacies. 

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La Rambla

After you fill yourself up with some amazing food, take a stroll on

Las Ramblas for some amazing shopping right outside of the market. There are street performers, food options, of course, shopping, souvenirs, and more. Be sure to see the Plaça de Catalunya while there. 

Gothic Quarter

Take a stroll through the Gothic Quarter and enjoy some beautiful architecture from medieval times. Don’t forget to check out the Barcelona Cathedral during your 3 Day Itinerary Barcelona.  In this area, we found a lot of cute small businesses to check out in and around the area. Additionally, this area is where some of Picasso’s inspiration came from.

Dinner

This would be the perfect time to grab dinner in the Gothic Quarter area. Bodega Biarritz is a well-known bar located in the lively city of Barcelona. Renowned for its authentic ambiance and wide selection of wines and tapas, this cozy bodega offers visitors an opportunity to indulge in traditional Spanish flavors. 

If you want to try something different, Ziryab Fusion Tapas Bar is a distinctive culinary destination in Barcelona celebrated for its innovative fusion of flavors in the realm of tapas. Known for its creative take on traditional Spanish small plates, Ziryab brings together a diverse array of influences, incorporating Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Spanish cuisines to craft unique and tantalizing dishes. 

Barcelona Itinerary Day 3

Museu d’Art de Catalunya in Montjuic

This lovely museum is a national palace that holds art from Catalunya. This museum includes many art pieces from artists located in the Catalunya area like Picasso, Salvador Dali, Antoni Gaudi, and more. Additionally, it’s an absolutely stunning building.

Picasso Museum

If you love art, I highly suggest you visit the Picasso museum. I studied art through high school and college so it’s a big passion of mine.  If you plan to visit Madrid, you need to check out the piece Les Meninas by Diego Velazquez at the Prado Museum in Madrid.  A room at the Picasso museum is dedicated to Picasso’s studies of Les Meninas.  Additionally, he created several paintings of his version of this painting. This was one of my highlights during my 3 days in Barcelona itinerary.

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Ciutadella Park

Parc de La Ciutadella (Ciutadella Park) is a beautiful park to have a picnic in or just stroll around and enjoy the sunshine.  Additionally, We found this area relaxing and filled with locals spending time with their family and friends. In big cities, it can be hard to find areas of green and recreational spots. Moreover, this was a nice relaxing place during our busy city adventures in such a busy 3-Day Itinerary Barcelona.

Arc de Triomf

After you finish hanging out at Ciutadella Park, take a stroll to the Arc de Triomf. The Arc de Triomf is known to be the main gate for the Barcelona World Fair which is why it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions to see during your 3 day itinerary Barcelona. On your walk down, you will see street performers, couples strolling down the walkway, and families enjoying this public space.

Add to your Barcelona Itinerary

With additional time in Barcelona, exploring fantastic day trip options is a great idea. Consider these two easily accessible destinations. Montserrat can be easily accessible by train, for Andorra, I suggest renting a car or taking a tour to add another country to your bucket list! 

Montserrat

After you have finished your 3 day itinerary in Barcelona, if you have extra time, I suggest that you spend the 4th day at Montserrat. If you are especially feeling overwhelmed or out of place in Barcelona, it is nice to take a day trip out of the city.  Finally, there is a beautiful hike uphill where you can get a great view of the Monastery.  Before you travel there, be sure to avoid these 9 mistakes for the train to Montserrat. It takes about an hour to get there via train from the city center. 

Day Trip to Andorra

Embarking on a day trip from Barcelona to Andorra offers a delightful escape into the picturesque Pyrenees mountains. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and tax-free shopping, Andorra beckons travelers with its scenic landscapes and charming villages. As you journey from Barcelona, relish the scenic train ride through Catalonia and into the stunning mountainous terrain of Andorra.

Upon arrival, explore the quaint towns, indulge in duty-free shopping for various goods, and immerse yourself in the serene alpine ambiance. Whether it’s embracing outdoor adventures, admiring the panoramic vistas, or discovering the local culture, a day trip to Andorra promises a memorable experience amidst nature’s grandeur.

Andorra is about a 2.5-hour drive from Barcelona, so I suggest leaving early to be able to return in the morning or extend your trip and stay overnight in Andorra and come back to Barcelona the next day. 

Best time to visit for 3 Days in Barcelona

The best time to visit Barcelona, Spain is May through June to avoid a lot of the tourist season and avoid the heat.  Although, I did travel during August and found it bearable, but more crowded.

Where to Visit in Spain

If you are looking for other cities to visit within Spain, these are some of the most popular destinations that you should keep on your list of places to visit within Spain.

• Madrid
• Granada
• Valencia

You may also like:

• Ibiza
• Seville
• Toledo
• Gay Valencia Guide
• Valencia Eats

How to get around Barcelona in 3 Days

The best way to get around Barcelona is to take public transportation. You can get a 2-Day, 3-Day, 4-Day or 5-Day travel pass when you arrive there or get one online.  For your 3 Day Itinerary Barcelona, Hola BCN travel pass allows you unlimited travel on the subway and metro bus. If you have mobility issues, taking taxes are also feasible. They can be more expensive but super convenient when trying to travel to further away locations like Park Guell and Bunkers de Carmel. 

If you are traveling outside of Barcelona, you will, of course, need to pay for those locations. Prices for the passes range from 15 to 35 Euro depending on the number of days you need the pass for.  Be sure to visit their website for updated rates.

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Language and Form of Currency in Spain

Of course, the language spoken is Spanish. The form of currency is the Euro. Furthermore, Credit cards and Debit Cards are perfectly fine to use here, just make sure you have a credit card without foreign transaction fees to avoid additional fees. Additionally, I suggest you bring some cash with you, and if you feel you need more, pull out more at the local atm.

Map of Barcelona

There you have it, my 3 days in Barcelona Itinerary.  Additionally, did you like this Itinerary? Leave your comments below.

More information for your trip to Barcelona

• Spain and Portugal Itinerary
• 2 Days in Madrid
• Madrid or Barcelona
• Tapas in Madrid
• Spain in August
• Top 10 Places to see in Barcelona
• Barcelona to Montserrat
• Things to do in Madrid
• Best Things to do in Barcelona

ALSO READ: Barcelona or Madrid, where to go.