Choose from 121 Fun Things to Do in Catalonia
Palau Sant Jordi
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Sant Joan Funicular Railway
Not to be confused with the Cremallera train service that transports people up the slopes of Montserrat to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria, Barcelona’s Sant Joan Funicular Railway runs from the monastery itself up to the very peak of the mountain. It was built back in 1918 for monks wishing to pray at the Hermitage of Sant Joan, and today it still trundles up the 65% gradient to 1,000 meters(3,280 feet) above sea level for stupendous views across the wild, arid landscapes of Cataluyna. From this vantage point, signposted walking trails lead into one of Catalunya’s most spectacular natural parks; the peaks of Montserrat have been protected since 1987 for their dense forests, in which more than 1,250 species of plants flourish. Animals to be spotted on the mountain slopes include wild goats, foxes and occasional wild boars as well as lizards of all sizes and colors; for wildlife fans there is a small natural history museum at the foot of the Sant Joan Funicular, which shares its opening times with the railway. Four historic villages – El Bruc, Monistrol, Marganell and Collbato – also lie in the Montserrat Natural Park, packed with monasteries, churches, hotels and restaurants.
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The funicular is close to Montserrat Monastery. It runs roughly every 20 minutes between 10am–4.50pm in winter, 10am–7.10pm in summer. Single tickets: adult €6.50; seniors €5.85; children under 18 €3.60. Return tickets: adult €10; seniors €9; children under 18 €5.50. Journey time is seven minutes.
Parc de la Ciutadella
- The park is a must-see for first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on a variety of surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as many areas of the park lack shade.
- See the park on a walking, cycling, or Segway tour.
Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya
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St. Mary of the Sea Cathedral
- The cathedral is a must-visit for architecture buffs and spiritual travelers.
- Remember to dress respectfully, with clothing covering shoulders and knees.
- The ground floor areas of the cathedral are wheelchair-accessible.
Parc de Montjuic
- Parc de Montjuic is a must-visit for art lovers, architecture and history buffs, and photographers.
- Wear comfortable shoes and plan to do a lot of walking; the park is huge.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Salt Mountain Cultural Park
- Salt Mountain Cultural Park is a fun day trip for foodies, families, and those interested in geology.
- Tours of the salt mine and its processing facilities last about an hour.
- Tour sizes are limited, so it’s a good idea to book ahead of time.
- Wear comfortable shoes and a light jacket, as temperatures inside the mine can be cool.
- The cultural park offers tours in Spanish and Catalan, as well as an audio guide in English and French.
- The Salt Mountain tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Mountain of the Jews (Montjuïc)
- Montjuïc ranks among Barcelona’s best spots for panoramic views.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a fair bit of walking.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection for exploring Montjuïc’s parks and outdoor areas.
- The Montjuïc cable car and funicular are both wheelchair accessible.
Sant Sadurni d'Anoia
- Sant Sadurni d’Anoia is a must-visit for wine lovers and foodies.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for time spent walking through town or in the vineyards.
- Wine tasting day trips typically last five to eight hours, or longer if a stop at Montserrat is included.
- Most tours of the area include hotel pickup and drop-off in Barcelona.
Torre Agbar
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Teatre Poliorama
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Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA)
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Sant Pau Recinte Modernista
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Tibidabo Mountain
- Tibidabo Mountain is a must-visit for couples and families.
- Book your tickets in advance to skip the line at the amusement park.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat; some areas on the mountain lack adequate shade.
- Public transportation to Tibidabo, as well as many of the amusement park attractions, is wheelchair accessible.
St. Benet Monastery (Món Sant Ben)
- St. Benet Monastery is a must-visit for foodies, spiritual travelers, and those looking for an escape from Barcelona.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Free Wi-Fi is available.
- Guided tours of the monastery typically last about one hour.
Tibidabo Amusement Park
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Parc del Forum
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Museu del Modernisme Catala
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Santa Caterina Market
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Santa Maria del Pi Basilica
Both the church, the square, and the nearby street Carrer del Pi are named for a tall pine tree that once stood in the square. Though it was partially destroyed in a fire in 1936, it was fully restored and reopened in 1940. The basilica has high vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows and lattice work. Its enormous rose window placed at the entrance is of particular note; it is one of the largest of its kind in the world.