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Find the perfect itinerary for you
You've got 3 days in a city where dragons guard rooftops and chocolate is basically a food group. The 3-day itinerary in Barcelona is like a backstage pass to your perfect trip. Watch your kids’ eyes sparkle at dinosaur and science museums, geek out over Roman ruins that a regular day tour won’t take you to, or find magic in moonlit plazas with your partner. Consider this your choose-your-own-guide, minus the wrong turns and "we shouldn’t have come here" moments.
For families & kids
Day 1
Morning (7am–11am)
Breakfast: Start with a sweet treat at Chok, where doughnuts are elevated to an art form. Parents fuel up with artisanal coffee while kids delight in chocolate-drizzled croissants.
Attraction: Barcelona Aquarium
At Barcelona Aquarium, you’ll waddle past penguins, watch sharks glide overhead in a 360° tunnel, and meet a rainbow of sea creatures. It’s basically an underwater safari – minus the soggy socks.
Stop: Port Vell (both operators)
Highlights:
- 80-meter-long shark tunnel
- Interactive exhibits for young explorers
- Penguin feeding time – adorable and educational
Pro tip: Stick around for the penguin feeding. Make sure to check the schedule so you don’t miss the frenzy.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 to 2 hours
Time to next stop: A quick 10-minute bus ride to the lunch place
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch: Hard Rock Café serves kid-approved burgers, mac and cheese, and legendary milkshakes in a rock-and-roll atmosphere packed with music memorabilia. Loud, lively, and fun for the whole family.
Attraction: Chocolate Museum
A museum where everything smells like chocolate? Welcome to paradise. Learn how cocoa beans transform into mouthwatering treats, see chocolate sculptures, and, yes, snacking is encouraged.
Stop: Plaça Catalunya (both operators)
Highlights:
- Edible Gaudí masterpieces
- Hands-on chocolate-making sessions
- Free chocolate bar with entry
Pro tip: Try a chocolate painting workshop, a unique sensory experience, which will keep the kids super pumped throughout.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: A 15-minute bus ride to Park Güell.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: Park Güell
Gaudí really said, “Let’s make a park, but make it a fairy tale.” With colorful mosaics, gingerbread-like buildings, and a giant tiled lizard, it’s the ultimate playground for kids.
Stop: Park Güell (both operators)
Highlights:
- The iconic dragon staircase
- Instagram-worthy mosaic benches
- Hidden tunnels for kids to explore
Pro tip: The famous Hypostyle Hall echoes when you yell, so why not check if for yourself?
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 10-minute ride to dinner.
Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: El Nacional is a grand food hall where families can sample everything from Spanish croquetas to fresh seafood. The elegant yet welcoming space makes dining an exciting culinary adventure.
Day 2
Morning (7am – 11am)
Breakfast: Brunch & Cake is famous for its over-the-top pancakes, smoothie bowls, and egg dishes that look like works of art. The airy, pastel-hued interiors make it a dreamy breakfast spot for kids and parents alike.
Attraction: Tibidabo Amusement Park
A 100-year-old amusement park on a mountaintop? Yes, please! Tibidabo has classic rides, stunning city views, and enough sugar to keep kids bouncing all day.
Stop: Tibidabo (both operators)
Highlights:
- Classic Ferris wheel overlooking Barcelona
- Kid-friendly carousels and bumper cars
- Panoramic views from the Sky Walk
Pro tip: Watch out for the robot mascot! Spot him, take photos, and you might get a high-five.
Suggested time to spend: 2–3 hours
Time to next stop: A scenic 20-minute ride to lunch.
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch: L’Ovella Negra has a rustic tavern feel and hearty comfort food like patatas bravas, giant nacho platters and grilled meats. The lively, casual setting is great for families looking for a fun, laid-back lunch.
Attraction: CosmoCaixa Science Museum
CosmoCaixa lets you step inside a rainforest, along with earthquake simulations, dinosaur fossils, and hands-on experiments. It’s a science playground for curious minds and their geeky parents.
Stop: Tibidabo (both operators)
Highlights:
- Recreated Amazon jungle
- Fun and engaging physics experiments
- Chance to gaze at stars in the planetarium
Pro tip: The physics section has a mind-bending magnetic wall. Try sticking random objects to see what holds.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time to next stop: A 15-minute ride to the Magic Fountain.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc puts on a dazzling show with water, lights, and music that feels like pure magic. It’s like a giant water party where the whole family gets front-row seats.
Stop: Plaça d’Espanya (both operators)
Highlights:
- Free evening light shows
- Choreographed water dances to classical and pop music
- A magical atmosphere with the National Palace as a backdrop
Pro tip: The fountain show plays famous tunes – challenge your kids and family to a mini dance-off.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: A 10-minute ride to dinner.
Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: La Paradeta is a seafood wonderland where kids can pick their own fresh fish before it’s cooked to order. The no-frills, canteen-style setup keeps things relaxed and all about the food.
Day 3
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: At La Burguesa, enjoy fresh smoothies, fluffy pastries, and tasty sandwiches, ideal for fueling up before a fun day.
Attraction: Barcelona Zoo
Say hello to over 4,000 animals at the Barcelona Zoo. From mischievous monkeys to majestic lions, it’s an animal lover’s paradise. There’s even a petting zoo for little adventurers who want to get up close and personal.
Stop: Port Olímpic (both operators)
Highlights:
- Up-close encounters with exotic animals
- A petting zoo for little ones
- Dolphin training demonstrations
Pro tip: Save little legs and take the mini train around the zoo; it’s a ride and a sightseeing tour in one.
Suggested time to spend: 2.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 10-minute bus ride to lunch.
Noon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Honest Greens delivers fresh, healthy bowls, flatbreads, and smoothies in a bright, modern setting. A great pick for parents who want nutritious options while keeping meals fun and flavorful.
Attraction: Museu Blau (Natural Science Museum)
Dinosaur skeletons and glow-in-the-dark rocks? Check. Hands-on science fun? Double check! Museu Blau is where kids can touch, play, and explore the coolest parts of nature without boring lectures.
Stop: Port Vell (both operators)
Highlights:
- Life-sized dinosaur replicas
- Fossilized prehistoric creatures
- Interactive displays about the planet’s evolution
Pro tip: There is an interactive lab that lets you play scientist – perfect for little explorers who love experiments.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 15-minute ride to the beach.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Nova Icaria Beach
Take a break from sightseeing on this family-friendly paradise with soft sand, calm waves, and plenty of space for sandcastle-building competitions.
Stop: Barceloneta (both operators)
Highlights:
- Calm, kid-safe waters
- Beachside restaurants
- Play areas for little ones
Pro tip: Rent a small sailboat from one of the local rental shops, the gentle breeze makes it a perfect spot to get a glimpse of the Barcelona skyline from the sea.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time to next stop: A short 5-minute walk to dinner.
Late Night (8pm - 12am)
Dinner: Xiringuito Escribà offers beachfront dining with giant seafood paellas perfect for sharing. The breezy, casual vibe makes it ideal for a relaxed family dinner by the sea.
Day 1
Morning (7am – 11am)
Breakfast: At Milk Bar & Bistro enjoy a welcoming vibe paired with a menu of hearty breakfast options. Think scrambled eggs, omelets, and flavorful sandwiches, all served with a side of cozy charm.
Attraction: Museu d’Història de Barcelona (MUHBA)
Travel back in time at MUHBA that takes you through Barcelona’s Roman roots with ancient ruins beneath the city streets. It's like discovering a whole new world, right under your feet.
Stop: Plaça de Catalunya (both operators)
Highlights:
- Underground Roman streets
- Medieval frescoes and Gothic artifacts
- Barcelona’s evolution through the ages
Pro tip: Use the digital tablets available at the venue to learn how the city evolved. It’s like flipping through an interactive history book.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: Hop back on for a 10-minute ride to El Born.
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch: Els Quatre Gats was once a meeting place for Picasso and other artists, serving Catalan classics like seafood fideuà, paella and traditional sausages in an old-world setting filled with history.
Attraction: El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria
Located in a restored market, El Born tells the story of Barcelona’s history through archaeology and vibrant exhibits. It’s history with a modern twist, all set against the backdrop of this lively neighborhood.
Stop: Port Vell (both operators)
Highlights:
- Ruins of a vanished neighborhood
- War of Spanish Succession history
- Interactive exhibits on Catalan resistance
Pro tip: Don’t miss the ruins. Beneath the center, you’ll find a medieval village preserved under glass.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A short 15-minute ride to Montjuïc.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: Montjuïc Castle
Perched on a hilltop, Montjuïc Castle is a fortress with views that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous. From history to panoramas, this castle has seen it all – wars, fireworks, and some seriously scenic sunsets.
Stop: Fundació Joan Miró (City Tour) and Telefèric de Montjuïc (Bus Turistic)
Highlights:
- Historic fortress with a military past
- Panoramic city and harbor views
- Former prison with a dark history
Pro tip: Take the cable car up—no hiking required—and you'll get a sky-high view of the city.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: Take the cable car down for a scenic descent and a 10-minute ride to dinner.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Can Culleretes is Barcelona’s oldest restaurant, dishing up Catalan stews and roasted meats in a charming, vintage space. A true time capsule for history lovers.
Day 2
Morning (7am – 11am)
Breakfast: Granja La Pallaresa is a century-old café where you can sip rich hot chocolate and dunk in melindros, a sweet sponge cake while soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere
Attraction: Barcelona Cathedral
A cathedral so majestic it’s practically shouting “I’m a must-see!” Barcelona Cathedral’s gothic architecture and breathtaking details make it feel like you’ve entered a fairytale.
Stop: Plaça Catalunya (both operators)
Highlights:
- Rooftop city views
- Medieval tombs and stained glass
- Cloister with resident geese
Pro tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and see the morning light streaming through the stained glass.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: A quick 15-minute ride to your next stop.
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch: La Vinateria del Call is a tucked-away wine bar in the Gothic Quarter, perfect for savoring traditional tapas like Iberian ham and local cheeses in a dimly lit, medieval-style setting.
Attraction: Museu d’Història dels Jueus (Jewish History Museum)
This museum sheds light on Barcelona’s Jewish heritage through centuries of history, artifacts, and heartwarming stories. It’s a deep dive into the past with a hopeful message for the future.
Stop: Port Vell (both operators)
Highlights:
- Ancient synagogue remains
- Artifacts from Jewish medieval life
- Stories of Jewish scholars and merchants
Pro tip: After your visit, wander the Jewish Quarter for local kosher treats, as there’s a legendary bakery nearby.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: A scenic 30-minute ride to the Royal Palace.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: Royal Palace of Barcelona
This royal palace was once home to Barcelona’s kings, and it's dripping with history. Stroll through its grand halls, marvel at the architecture, and imagine life as a king or queen for a day.
Stop: Camp Nou (City Tour) and Palau Reial – Pavellons Güell (Bus Turistic)
Highlights:
- Great Hall of medieval monarchs
- Underground Roman ruins
- Barcelona’s maritime history
Pro tip: Skip the crowd and book a guided tour for easy access and insider royal gossip.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 10-minute walk to your dinner spot.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Ca l’Isidre blends history with fine dining, offering market-fresh dishes like truffle-stuffed cannelloni in a warm, elegant space filled with old-world charm.
Day 3
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Forn Mistral is a family-run bakery known for its ensaïmadas, a type of sweet bread and flaky croissants, making it a must-visit for a traditional Catalan breakfast.
Attraction: Sagrada Família
Thought you could leave Barcelona without seeing Sagrada Familia? That’s impossible. Gaudí’s masterpiece is a cathedral so unique it looks like something out of a dream or a really colorful storybook.
Stop: Sagrada Família (both operators)
Highlights:
- Nativity and Passion facades
- Stained glass light spectacle
- Gaudí’s architectural vision
Pro tip: Gaudí embedded hidden symbols into the architecture. Take a scavenger hunt to find them, and there are plenty!
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: Hop back on the bus for a 10-minute bus ride for lunch.
Noon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: La Fonda serves hearty Mediterranean dishes like seafood paella, cuttlefish and rice, and slow-cooked meats in a cozy, rustic setting perfect for those craving a traditional taste of Barcelona.
Attraction: Casa Batllo
Gaudí’s colorful creation, Casa Batllo, is all about curves, colors, and quirky designs. It’s like walking through an enchanted house that’s been designed by someone who really loves everything whimsical.
Stop: Casa Batllo (both operators)
Highlights:
- Wave-like facade inspired by the sea
- Nature-inspired interiors
- Rooftop chimneys resembling dragons
Pro tip: The lighting inside changes depending on the time of day, so every room feels different at different hours. It's great for those Instagram pics!
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A quick 10-minute ride to your final stop.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Hospital de Sant Pau
The Hospital de Sant Pau is more than just a hospital – it’s a modernist architectural wonder with vibrant mosaics, soaring ceilings, and intricate details that’ll leave you in awe.
Stop: Plaça de Catalunya (both operators)
Highlights:
- Stunning Art Nouveau pavilions
- History as a healing center
- Mosaics and domed ceilings
Pro tip: The gardens surrounding the hospital are perfect for a peaceful stroll. Be sure to visit the stunning Central Pavilion.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: A 20-min ride to your dinner spot.
Late Night (8pm - 12am)
Dinner: With a history dating back to 1836 and a timeless, elegant atmosphere, 7 Portes is a legendary spot for oysters and lobster cream, cannelloni with truffle, and traditional paella.
Day 1
Morning (7am – 11am)
Breakfast: Café Godot is a chic, relaxed breakfast spot with fluffy omelets and buttery croissants, making it perfect for a slow morning with your partner.
Attraction: Park Güell
Gaudí’s garden of wonders is full of whimsical tiles, serpentine benches, and panoramic views. Whether you’re holding hands or letting your imagination run wild, this park is romance personified.
Stop: Park Güell (both operators)
Highlights:
- Colorful serpentine bench
- Iconic dragon staircase
- Stunning hilltop views
Pro tip: Everyone flocks to the main terrace, but for a quiet, romantic moment, head to the lesser-known Viaduct dels Enamorats (Lovers’ Bridge).
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 10-minute bus ride to La Pedrera.
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch: Gresca offers an intimate experience with inventive small plates like cured sardines and duck confit with a great wine menu, all served in a sleek, modern space.
Attraction: Casa Milà
This architectural masterpiece by Gaudí is as unusual as it is beautiful. Casa Milà is an art lover’s dream come true with its undulating stone facade and surreal chimneys.
Stop: La Pedrera (both operators)
Highlights:
- Wavy stone facade
- Sculptural rooftop chimneys
- Hidden interior courtyards
Pro tip: Look for the hidden courtyards, which offer a glimpse into the life of Barcelona’s elite in the early 1900s.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 15-minute bus ride to the Gothic Quarter.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: El Pont del Bisbe & Barri Gòtic
Wander the narrow, winding streets of the Gothic Quarter and cross the iconic Pont del Bisbe. This medieval bridge and the surrounding alleyways make for a dreamy, romantic stroll through Barcelona’s past.
Stop: Plaça Catalunya (both operators)
Highlights:
- Stunning Bishop’s Bridge
- Hidden courtyards and archways
- Atmospheric historic streets
Pro tip: Cross the bridge together. As legend says, crossing the Pont del Bisbe guarantees eternal love and good luck.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A short 5-minute walk to your dinner destination.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Pla is a dimly lit, romantic hideaway known for creative Mediterranean dishes like charcoal-grilled octopus, ideal for a cozy dinner date.
Day 2
Morning (7am – 11am)
Breakfast: Churrería Laietana is the perfect stop for a sweet morning treat, serving up crispy churros with thick, velvety hot chocolate in a nostalgic setting.
Attraction: Palau de la Música Catalana
Music lovers, this one’s for you. Palau de la Música is an architectural masterpiece with spectacular stained-glass windows and a concert hall that feels like a dream.
Stop: Plaça Catalunya (both operators)
Highlights:
- Magnificent stained-glass skylight
- Ornate concert hall
- Sculpted floral balconies
Pro tip: Book tickets for a performance. There’s no better way to experience the magic of Palau de la Música.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 10-minute ride to your lunch stop.
Noon (12pm – 3pm)
Lunch: Miramar pairs stunning panoramic views with refined seafood dishes like lobster rice, creating a luxurious yet intimate lunch experience.
Attraction: Fundació Joan Miró
Get ready for a whirlwind of creativity at the Joan Miró Foundation. Located on Montjuïc Hill, it’s full of bright, playful art that will spark inspiration and maybe even some romantic sparks.
Stop: Fundació Joan Miró (both operators)
Highlights:
- Playful surrealist paintings
- Sculptures in a sunlit courtyard
- Rooftop with panoramic city views
Pro tip: The museum’s terrace offers beautiful views of the city, ideal for a quiet moment or a romantic selfie.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 10-minute ride to the Magic Fountain.
Evening (4pm – 7pm)
Attraction: Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
End your day with a splash, literally. The Magic Fountain puts on a dazzling light and water show to music. It’s a perfectly enchanting experience for couples to enjoy together, especially as the sun sets.
Stop: Plaça Espanya (both operators)
Highlights:
- Mesmerizing water choreography
- The romantic backdrop at sunset
- Music-themed light shows
Pro tip: The fountain’s colors shift with the music, so make sure to arrive early to experience the full effect.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: A short 5-minute walk to your dinner destination.
Late night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Tickets brings a playful twist to fine dining with whimsical tapas like liquid olives and truffle air baguettes, making every bite an experience to share.
Day 3
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Can Dendê is a cozy brunch gem with Brazilian-inspired dishes like pulled pork eggs Benedict, perfect for couples who love a flavorful morning.
Attraction: Ocata Beach
If you’re craving some sand between your toes, Ocata Beach is perfect for a relaxing, low-key day with your partner. It’s not as crowded as the main city beaches, giving you both space to enjoy the waves in peace.
Stop: Barceloneta (both operators)
Highlights:
- Scenic beachfront promenade
- Cozy seaside cafes
- Stunning sunrise views
Pro tip: Rent a tandem bike and cruise along the scenic coastal path, because nothing says "relationship goals" like couple pedaling.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: A 10-minute ride to a crowd-favorite Spanish restaurant.
Noon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Salamanca offers classic Spanish seafood in a vibrant, bustling atmosphere – think grilled prawns, fresh clams, and perfectly seared fish by the beach.
Attraction: Port Vell & Cable Car Ride
For a scenic, relaxing experience, take the cable car from the port up to Montjuïc. Along the way, you’ll get incredible views of the sea and city, making it perfect for a romantic date.
Stop: Port Vell (both operators)
Highlights:
- Aerial views over Barcelona
- Romantic ride above the sea
- Panoramic cityscape photography
Pro tip: After the cable car, take a stroll around Port Vell, there are cool restaurants and bars for a post-ride drink.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: A 30-minute bus ride to your final evening attraction.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Bunkers del Carmel
For a unique and panoramic view of the city, head to Bunkers del Carmel. It’s an old military site turned chill spot, offering an incredible bird’s-eye view of Barcelona and beyond.
Stop: Park Güell (both operators)
Highlights:
- 360-degree city views
- Best sunset spot in Barcelona
- Intimate, off-the-beaten-path vibe
Pro tip: Hike up together – It’s a bit of a hike, but the views and photo ops are totally worth the climb.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: Take a 30-minute ride to your dinner spot.
Late Night (8pm - 12am)
Dinner: Wrap up your trip with a final toast at Disfrutar, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering decadent caviar-filled donuts and gazpacho sandwiches. Thai-style cuttlefish, and more.