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2 Day Itinerary Barcelona: What to Do, See & Eat for an Unforgettable Trip

Welcome to Barcelona – a dazzling city where art, culture, and sunshine mix like a perfect cocktail. Whether you’re here for the whimsical designs of Gaudí, the laid-back beaches, or rich Catalan history, Barcelona offers a little something for everyone. With hop-on hop-off tours, like Barcelona Bus Turistic and Barcelona City Tour, you can see the city’s best bits at your own pace. Get ready for a 2-day itinerary in Barcelona that’ll leave you craving more!

Travel logistics: the simplified way to travel

Why stress over maps, tickets, or taxis when you can zip around the city with ease? The Barcelona Bus Turistic and City Tour offer the perfect solution for stress-free sightseeing. Hop on, hop off at your convenience and cruise between iconic landmarks like La Sagrada Família, Montjuïc, and Casa Batlló without breaking a sweat. You control the Barcelona 2-day itinerary – so you can soak in the sights, enjoy a meal, or take a break when needed.

Recommended tickets

Barcelona City Tour: 24/48-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Barcelona Bus Turistic: 1 or 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Find the perfect itinerary for you

Dive into a metropolis where medieval cloisters stand beside avant-garde museums and where the rhythms of Catalan and Spanish blend in bustling market halls. If you're a culture enthusiast craving world-class art museums, a food lover hunting for the perfect pintxos, or simply someone seeking the electrifying energy of a Mediterranean jewel, this city promises an unforgettable affair. So grab your walking shoes and let Barcelona's magic unfold before you with this 2-day Barcelona itinerary. 

Barcelona for families and kids

If your idea of a perfect vacation involves keeping the kiddos entertained while you actually get to enjoy yourself too, Barcelona's got your back! Think dragon-hunting in Park Güell (yes, really), chocolate museums that'll make Willy Wonka jealous, and beaches where sandcastle dreams come true. 

Day 1

Ciutadella Park Barcelona with fountain and lush greenery.

Morning (7am–11am)

Breakfast: Breakfast is a pastry paradise at Bubó! From flaky croissants to chocolate-filled delights, there’s a treat for everyone. The kids will love the intricate chocolate sculptures, while parents can pair their picks with top-notch coffee for the perfect start to the day.

Attraction: Ciutadella Park

  • Stop: Zoo Poblenou (City Tour) and Port Olímpic (Bus Turistic)
  • Ciutadella Park is Barcelona’s green oasis with a sprinkle of whimsy. Whether you’re paddling a boat on the lake or marveling at its grand fountain, it’s perfect for a chill day. Highlights
  • Boating on the serene lake
  • Quirky statues 
  • Ornate Cascada Monumental fountain
  • Pro tip: Rent a bike and cycle through the lush greenery, visit the monumental fountain, and take stunning pictures.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
  • Time to the next stop: Take a leisurely 5-minute stroll to your next destination.
Barcelona Zoo and Aquarium entrance with visitors exploring exhibits.

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch: Wander through stalls of Poble Espanyol offering everything from freshly made paella to regional cheeses and cured meats. It's a vibrant spot to graze with family while soaking in cultural vibes.

Attraction: Barcelona Zoo

  • Stop: Zoo Poblenou (City Tour) and Port Olímpic (Bus Turistic)
  • Set in Ciutadella Park, Barcelona Zoo is a wild day out featuring over 400 species. Say hi to cheeky monkeys, exotic birds, and cuddly penguins. Oh, and the kid-friendly activities? Spot-on.
  • Highlights: 
  • Dolphin acrobatics and shows 
  • Pandas and exotic animal exhibits 
  • interactive petting zoo for kids.
  • Pro tip: The Gorilla Experience: This unique exhibit allows visitors to observe gorillas in a naturalistic environment, offering a truly immersive experience.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
  • Time to next stop: 20-minute bus ride to Montjuïc Castle.
Montjuic Castle in Barcelona with panoramic city views.

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Attraction: Montjuïc Castle

  • Stop: Fundació Joan Miró (City Tour) and Telefèric de Montjuïc (Bus Turistic)
  • This 17th-century fortress doubles as a lookout spot with jaw-dropping views of the city and sea. Explore its ramparts, or just pretend you’re in an epic period drama. Either way, it’s history with a view.
  • Highlights: 
  • Stunning city and sea views
  • Historic 17th-century fortress
  • Dramatic photo opportunities
  • Pro tip: Don’t miss out the castle’s cannons, as a local legend goes – a dragon once terrorized the city from the castle and the cannons were built to defeat the beast.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
  • Time to next stop: 10-minute bus ride back to the city center.
Seafood being served at La Canota.

Late Night (8pm – 12am)

Dinner: La Cañota serves up family-friendly Spanish classics – think croquettes, patatas bravas, and seafood galore – all in a lively atmosphere that keeps little ones entertained while parents sip on sangria.

Day 2

People carefully seeing the process of extracting chocolate from a machine in the Chocolate Musuem.

Morning (7am – 11am)

Breakfast: Miss Lys Brunch Cafe is where pancakes stack higher than your weekend plans, and the hot chocolate is basically a hug in a mug. Little foodies get their own tasty treats, so there is no need for sneaky bites off mom and dad’s plates. 

Attraction: Chocolate Museum 

  • Stop: Plaça Catalunya (both operators)
  • The Chocolate Museum takes you on a delicious journey through the history, artistry, and magic of cocoa, from ancient Mayan currency to mouthwatering masterpieces. Highlights: 
  • Famous characters recreated in chocolate
  • Historic tools and artifacts of chocolatiers
  • Animated chocolate-making exhibits
  • Pro tip: Little chocoholics can get hands-on with sweet workshops and fun activities – because who wouldn't want to play with chocolate?
  • Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: 15 to 20-minute bus ride to Barceloneta Beach.

Tourists enjoying a sunny day at Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona.

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at one of the beachfront eateries at Barceloneta Beach. Perfect for picky eaters. Kids can munch on fresh calamari or pizza while parents enjoy sangria with an ocean view. 

Attraction: Barceloneta Beach

  • Stop: Port Vell (both operators)
  • Barceloneta Beach is where sun, sand, and seafood meet. Pack your towel, grab a sangria, and let the Mediterranean vibes flow. Oh, and beach volleyball is a bonus workout.
  • Highlights: 
  • Sandy shores by the Mediterranean
  • Fresh seafood restaurants
  • Watersports like paddleboarding paradise
  • Pro tip: The beach is home to the city’s most famous tapas bars, so make sure to grab a bite before you head out. 
  • Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
  • Time to next stop: 20-minute bus ride to Poble Espanyol.
Visitors exploring art exhibition inside Poble Espanyol

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Attraction: Poble Espanyol

  • Stop: Poble Espanyol (both operators)
  • Time travel to Spain’s most charming villages in this architectural gem. From craft shops to tapas, it’s a mini Spain experience in one spot. Nighttime brings live shows and extra magic.
  • Highlights: 
  • Replica Spanish village vibes
  • Craft shops and tapas spots
  • Nighttime live performances
  • Pro tip: Elevate your evening with a Flamenco show, that’s as fiery as it is unforgettable.  Make sure to reserve your seat for a night of rhythmic brilliance.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
  • Time to next stop: 10-minute bus ride to dinner
Dining area at Tapas heaven with tables serving sandwiches and mini-hamburgers.

Late Night (8pm – 12am)

Dinner: Tapas heaven, but Cervecería Catalana is casual enough for kids. From mini hamburgers to crispy calamari, there’s something for everyone. The buzz and bustle keep the little ones entertained while the food keeps everyone happy.

Barcelona for art lovers & culture enthusiasts

Think Barcelona's just about Gaudí? Oh, you're in for a treat! This city is basically where Gothic meets graffiti, and every neighborhood serves up a different slice of artistic pie. From modernist masterpieces that look like they're melting in the sun to hidden galleries where the next Picasso might be hanging out, your camera is about to get a serious workout. 

Day 1

Casa Batllo facade with colorful mosaics and unique architecture in Barcelona.

Morning (7am – 11am)

Breakfast: Start your day at El Fornet with freshly baked croissants and ensaimadas, a flaky pastry, perfectly paired with robust coffee. This charming corner cafe is ideal for kicking off a Gaudí-inspired morning.

Attraction: Casa Batlló

  • Stop: La Pedrera (both operators)
  • Gaudí’s Casa Batlló is like a fairy tale in building form. Its dragon-inspired roof and colorful mosaics make it pure eye candy. Don’t just gawk outside – the interiors are equally trippy.
  • Highlights: 
  • Colorful, dragon-inspired rooftop design 
  • Sculptural and organic architecture throughout 
  • Stunning light-filled and curved interiors
  • Pro tip: Climb up to the rooftop terrace for stunning views of Barcelona and to admire Gaudí's unique architectural details.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
  • Time to next stop: 15-minute bus ride to Palau de la Música Catalana.
Palau de la Música Catalana concert hall interior, Barcelona, Spain.

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch: Tucked away in a romantic courtyard, La Lluna offers Catalan classics like fideuà (noodle paella) and tender roast lamb, creating an enchanting atmosphere for cultural buffs.

Attraction: Palau de la Música Catalana

  • Stop: Urquinaona (Barcelona City Tour & Barcelona Bus Turistic)
  • This concert hall is a kaleidoscope come to life. From its stained glass ceiling to intricate details, it’s pure eye candy. Even if you’re tone-deaf, this place hits the right note.
  • Highlights: 
  • Stunning stained-glass ceiling
  • Ornate concert hall interiors
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Pro tip: Attend a concert or performance to experience the incredible acoustics of this renowned concert hall.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
  • Time to next stop: 30-minute bus ride to your next stop.
Visitors enjoying rides at Tibidabo Amusement Park in Barcelona.

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Attraction: Tibidabo – Magic Mountain and Amusement Park

  • Stop: Tibidabo (both operators)
  • Perched high above Barcelona, Tibidabo Amusement Park is where little adventurers can twirl on the classic carousel, giggle through the funhouse, and meet playful puppets. Families can soak in breathtaking views, snack on treats, and enjoy a day of old-school magic. 
  • Highlights: 
  • Vintage rides with stunning city views
  • Spain's oldest amusement park experience
  • Family-friendly puppet shows
  • Pro tip: Don’t miss out the vintage Avió ride – a plane-shaped ride that's been delighting visitors since 1928. It’s a slice of history you can’t experience anywhere else. 
  • Suggested time to spend: 1.5 to 2 hours
  • Time to next stop: 30-min bus ride to dinner.
Avant-garde tapas bar by the Adrià brothers serving edible masterpieces like liquid olives

Late night (8pm – 12am)

Dinner: Treat yourself to creative tapas at Tickets Bar. This avant-garde tapas bar by the Adrià brothers serves edible masterpieces like liquid olives, Iberian ham air baguettes, and whimsical desserts. Perfect for those who crave art on their plates as much as on the walls.

Day 2

Sagrada Familia facade in Barcelona showcasing intricate architectural details.

Morning (7am – 11am)

Breakfast: Just steps from Gaudí’s masterpiece, Farggi Café is a deliciously convenient choice. Sip on smooth coffee while indulging in chocolate croissants and refreshing juices. 

Attraction: La Sagrada Família

  • Stop: Sagrada Família (both operators)
  • Gaudí’s magnum opus is a jaw-dropper. This basilica’s intricate facades and kaleidoscopic interiors will make your Instagram pop. Over a century in the making, and it’s still a work in progress.
  • Highlights: 
  • Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece
  • Stunning stained glass interiors
  • Iconic facades
  • Pro tip: For breathtaking views, climb one of the towers. Note that there are different tower options with varying heights and accessibility.
  • Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
  • Time to next stop: 20-minute bus ride to Park Güell.
People on the stairs of Park Guell

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch: Make a quick stop at El Nacional, a gastronomic ode to Spain’s regions, served in a dazzling art deco hall. Sample Catalan seafood zarzuela, Iberian ham, and Asturian cider in a setting so stunning, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a painting.

Attraction: Park Güell

  • Stop: Park Güell (both operators)
  • It’s like stepping into Gaudí’s mind – colorful, quirky, and surreal. Think mosaic lizards, candy-like structures, and epic views. You’ll feel like you’ve entered a Dr. Seuss book.
  • Highlights: 
  • Mosaic-laden architecture
  • Iconic salamander sculpture
  • Hilltop city views
  • Pro tip: Visit Gaudí's former residence within the park for a glimpse into his personal life.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
  • Time to next stop: 25-minute bus ride to Casa Milà (La Pedrera).
Casa Mila rooftop with unique chimneys in Barcelona, Spain.

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Attraction: Casa Milà (La Pedrera)

  • Stop: La Pedrera (both operators)
  • Casa Milà is all about curves and waves, thanks to Gaudí’s avant-garde design. Wander its flowing interiors and rooftop chimneys that look like Star Wars extras. It’s weird and wonderful.
  • Highlights: 
  • Curvy, wave-like design
  • Surreal rooftop chimneys
  • Interiors with unexpected angles and natural light interplay
  • Pro tip: Observe the iconic "smoking chimneys" from different angles and appreciate their unique shapes and designs.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
  • Time to next stop: 10-minute bus ride to dinner.
Michelin-starred dishes serving tender delicious food.

Late night (8pm – 12am)

Dinner: Elevate your evening at Roca Moo with Michelin-starred dishes like tender suckling pig or dive into a creative tasting menu. The blend of culinary artistry and stylish ambiance is perfect for culture enthusiasts.

Barcelona for budget travelers

Listen up, savvy spenders, and experience Barcelona without selling a kidney! This city's got more free views than your social media feed, markets where samples count as lunch, and enough affordable tapas bars. Get, set, and roll as we're about to show you how to rock Barcelona without breaking the bank. 

Day 1

Barcelona Zoo entrance with a Barcelona Hop-on Hop-off bus in the foreground.

Morning (7am – 11am)

Breakfast: Enjoy Federal Café’s minimalist vibe with affordable brunch staples like creamy avocado toast, fluffy pancakes, and perfectly brewed coffee. The ideal start to a budget-friendly day in the city.

Attraction: The Glasshouse

  • Stop: Zoo Poblenou (City Tour) and Port Olímpic (Bus Turistic)
  • The Glasshouse (or La Daurada) is a stunning Victorian-style greenhouse filled with exotic plants and ornate glass walls inside Citudella Park. It's like stepping into a tropical oasis right in the middle of the city. 
  • Highlights: 
  • Tropical plants in a stunning setting
  • Exotic flora displayed in intricate design
  • Perfect spot for plant lovers’ photos
  • Pro tip: Lookout for any events – the place occasionally hosts floral exhibitions or gardening workshops during your visit.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
  • Time to next stop: 10-minute walk to Museu Picasso.
Picasso's Les Demoiselles d'Avignon exhibit at the British Museum, London.

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch: Step into this lively El Xampanyet where locals gather for cava and an array of tapas. Anchovies with thinly sliced Iberian ham all served in a buzzing atmosphere that feels like home.

Attraction: Museu Picasso 

  • Stop: El Born (Barcelona Bus Turistic & Barcelona City Tour)
  • Dive into Picasso’s evolution, from doodling prodigy to artistic legend. This museum showcases his lesser-known gems in a gorgeous Gothic mansion. 
  • Highlights: 
  • Picasso’s artistic journey
  • Gothic mansion location
  • Hidden masterpiece collection
  • Pro tip: Don't miss Picasso's famous reinterpretation of Velázquez's "Las Meninas" – showcasing his fascination with the interplay of form and space.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
  • Time to next stop: 10-minute walk to Poble Espanyol.
Tourists exploring Poble Espanyol in Barcelona with Skip-the-Line Tickets, admiring the unique architecture and vibrant streets

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

Attraction: Poble Espanyol

  • Stop: Poble Espanyol (both operators)
  • Time travel to Spain’s most charming villages in this architectural gem. From craft shops to tapas, it’s a mini Spain experience in one spot. 
  • Highlights: 
  • Replica Spanish village vibes
  • Craft shops and tapas spots
  • Nighttime live performances
  • Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
  • Time to next stop: 15-minute bus ride to Montjuïc.
Elegant table setting with wine glasses and candles in a cozy restaurant, perfect for fine dining in warm lighting.

Late night (8pm – 12am)

Dinner: Famous for its legendary patatas bravas, Bar Tomás serves crispy potatoes smothered in zesty aioli and brava sauce. Add a refreshing beer and the unpretentious charm of this local favorite, and you’ve got a must-visit spot for a true taste of Barcelona.

Day 2

Jardins de Miramar overlooking Barcelona skyline in Montjuic Park, Catalonia, Spain.

Morning (7am – 11am)

Breakfast: Head to Chök and indulge in innovative delights like cronuts, artisan truffles, and decadent donuts, all crafted with love and a splash of creativity. Their rich hot chocolate? Pure liquid happiness.

Attraction: Montjuïc Park

  • Stop: Plaça d’Espanya (City Tour) and (Telefèric de Montjuïc (Bus Turistic) 
  • A sprawling mix of nature, culture, and jaw-dropping views. Think botanic gardens, Olympic landmarks, and hidden art. It’s where a lazy day and sightseeing meet. 
  • Highlights: 
  • Lush botanic gardens
  • Olympic landmarks
  • Scenic, quiet picnic spots
  • Pro tip: Check out the Cactus Garden (Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera), home to hundreds of exotic and spiky plants – a surprising blend of desert vibes in a Mediterranean park. 
  • Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
  • Time to next stop: 15-minute bus ride to La Rambla
Palau Guell facade in Barcelona with intricate ironwork and stone arches.

Noon (12pm – 3pm)

Lunch: A sensory overload of colors and aromas awaits at La Boqueria Market. From fresh fruit juices and empanadas to sizzling seafood skewers, each stall offers a bite-sized adventure. 

Attraction: Palau Güell 

  • Stop: Colom (Barcelona Bus Turistic & Barcelona City Tour)
  • This Gaudí-designed mansion is a gothic-meets-modernist dream. From its whimsical chimneys to intricate interiors, it’s architectural eye candy. A treasure trove for design lovers.
  • Highlights: 
  • Gaudí’s gothic-modernist fusion
  • Whimsical rooftop chimneys
  • Luxurious, detailed interiors
  • Pro tip: Free entry every first Sunday of month – is there any better news for penny-pinching travelers? 
  • Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
  • Time to next stop: 10-minute bus ride to El Raval.
Barcelona cityscape with Barcelona Bus Turistic hop-on hop-off bus near Sagrada Familia.

Evening (4pm – 7pm)

  • Attraction: El Raval District
  • Stop: El Raval (Barcelona Bus Turistic & Barcelona City Tour)
  • Barcelona’s artsy soul, brimming with street art, trendy cafés, and offbeat museums. Perfect for a hipster wander or foodie adventure. Watch out: its edgy charm is contagious.
  • Highlights:
  • Edgy street art
  • Hip cafés and bars
  • Quirky museum finds
  • Pro tip: Discover the vibrant street art scene in El Raval. Take a guided tour or explore on your own to discover hidden gems.
  • Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
  • Time to next stop: 15-minute walk to Ciutadella Park for the evening.
Fine dining restaurant interior in Las Vegas with elegant table settings.

Late night (8pm – 12am)

Dinner: Tucked away in a rustic corner, La Cova Fumada serves authentic bombas – crispy potato croquettes with a spicy meat filling. Pair these gems with grilled sardines or hearty chickpea stew, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the flavors of old-world Barcelona.

Alternate stops to customize your journey

Arc de Triomf: This glorious arch isn’t just for parades – it’s your Instagram moment waiting to happen. Stroll through the park and pose by this Parisian-inspired landmark that’s as grand as it is photogenic.

  • Stop: Arc de Triomf (both operators)

Tibidabo: A hilltop amusement park with a killer view. Ride a vintage Ferris wheel and feel on top of the world – both literally and figuratively. Oh, and don’t forget the jaw-dropping church at the top. 

  • Stop: Tibidabo (both operators)

Fundació Joan Miró: A place where you can lose yourself in the surreal world of Miró. Explore his colorful, quirky works in a museum set against the backdrop of the city – what’s not to love?

  • Stop: Fundació Miró (both operators)

Camp Nou FC Barcelona: Step into the legendary world of FC Barcelona at Camp Nou, where soccer dreams come alive. Tour the massive stadium, check out the player's locker room, and feel the energy of the Champions League glory. 

  • Stop: Estació de Sants (City Tour) and Camp Nou (Bus Turistic) 

La Boqueria Market: Step into this vibrant food market, where the smells of fresh fruit, seafood, and spices will make your taste buds dance. It’s a true feast for the senses—and your stomach.

  • Stop: Plaça Catalunya (both operators)

Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA): When modern art calls, you answer. At MACBA, contemporary pieces beg to be admired and interpreted. Plus, the architecture is a modern marvel in itself.

  • Stop: Plaça de Catalunya (both operators)

Santa María del Mar: A gothic masterpiece tucked away in the El Born neighborhood. Marvel at its soaring arches and intricate details—this church isn’t just for praying, it’s for inspiring awe.

  • Stop: Port Vell (both operators)

Passeig de Gràcia: Shopping heaven? Absolutely. But this upscale street also offers an art-and-architecture adventure. Stroll along the sidewalk, and you’ll pass Gaudí’s famous buildings and boutique stores like it’s no big deal.

  • Stop: La Pedrera (both operators)

Museum of Perfume: You’re in for a “scent-sational” adventure – dive into the world of fragrances with interactive exhibits, sniff your way through the history of perfume, and even try your hand at creating your own signature scent. 

  • Stop: La Pedrera

Olympic Museum: A tribute to the city’s transformative role as the host of the 1992 Summer Olympics, the museum celebrates the spirit of Olympism with iconic athlete memorabilia, interactive sports challenges, and the rich history of the Games. 

  • Stop: Fundació Joan Miró (both operators)