Barcelona: A Short but Sweet 4-Day Stop
Where the Mediterranean breeze meets Gaudí’s masterpieces and tapas are a religion. Despite having visited this lively city more times than we care to count, it’s always a treat to return. With its vibrant streets, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, Barcelona never gets old. So, buckle up for a whirlwind 4-day adventure that’s sure to leave you wanting more!
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Time of the Year
We’ve had the pleasure of soaking up the Barcelona sun during various summer trips. The city enjoys an amazing ocean breeze, which makes the heat quite bearable for us sun-worshiping Portuguese. Just remember, sunscreen is your best friend, and hats are a must!
If you're considering other times to visit:
Spring (April to June): A fantastic time to visit with mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
Autumn (September to November): The weather is still pleasant, and the summer crowds have thinned out.
Winter (December to February): While it’s cooler, Barcelona doesn’t freeze. It’s a great time for fewer tourists and festive holiday lights, though swimming in the Mediterranean is off the table, unless you are a brave one.
Budget
Accommodation:
Budget Options: If you’re looking to save, consider staying at an Airbnb. We’ve had great experiences with places like Gracia Apartments or Apartamentos Rambla Catalunya, which range from €70 to €120 per night. These options are perfect for groups or families looking for a homey touch.
Mid-Range: For a bit more comfort, try Hotel Jazz or Hotel Catalonia. Prices are around €150 to €200 per night. Ideal for a mix of comfort and affordability.
Splurge: If you’re feeling fancy, the Majestic Hotel & Spa or Hotel Arts Barcelona are top-notch. Expect to spend €300 and up per night, but the views are amazing.
Food and What to Try:
Cheap Eats: Barcelona’s street food scene is fantastic. Enjoy a bocadillo (Spanish sandwich) or churros with chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés for around €5-€10.
Mid-Range: For a satisfying meal, head to Tapeo or El Xampanyet. Tapas here will cost about €20-€30 per person, but they offer a taste of traditional Spanish flavors.
Fine Dining: If you want to treat yourself to something special, choose the Cinc Sentits. Expect to pay €80 and up per person for a memorable dining experience.
Transportation and City Pass:
Public Transport: Barcelona’s metro and buses are efficient and cover most of the city (during the summer though they are a bit sticky and warm). A single ride costs around €2.40, while a T10 ticket (which offers 10 rides) costs about €11.35.
City Pass: The Barcelona Card offers unlimited public transport, discounts on attractions, and a hop-on-hop-off bus service. For 3 days, it’s about €46, which can be a great deal if you plan to visit many attractions. We definitely recommend seriously looking at this option.
Optional Activity for Families: If you’re traveling with kids (or if you are an adult with a friend group who loves theme parks like us), consider a day trip to PortAventura. This theme park, located about 1.5 hours from Barcelona by train. Tickets are around €50 per person and you can pay a ticket that includes the train ride as well.
Itinerary
Day 1: Gaudí and Gothic Splendors
Sagrada Familia: Start your trip with a visit to Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. Tickets cost around €26, and we recommend booking in advance to avoid long lines (which are a given at any time of the year).
Park Güell: Explore this whimsical park designed by Gaudí. Entry is €10. The views of the city are worth it, and the colorful mosaics are Instagram-worthy.
Gothic Quarter: Wander through the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, where you’ll find charming shops, cafes, and historical landmarks. This is probably one of Sara’s favorite parts of Barcelona.
Dinner at El Xampanyet: Enjoy tapas and a glass of cava for around €25. The lively atmosphere is a great introduction to Barcelona’s dining scene.
Day 2: Museums and Markets
Picasso Museum: Spend your morning exploring Picasso’s early works. Admission is around €12. The museum offers fascinating insights into the artist’s formative years.
La Boqueria Market: Head to this bustling market for lunch. Sample fresh produce, seafood, and tapas. It’s a feast for the senses and costs about €15-€20 for a hearty lunch.
Palau de la Música Catalana: Take a guided tour of this amazing concert hall if you get the chance. Tickets are around €20.
Evening Stroll and Dinner at Tapeo: Discover more tapas at Tapeo for around €30. The food is delicious and a great way to end your day by experience!
Day 3: Beach and Boulevards
Barceloneta Beach: Relax on the beach and soak up some sun. If you’re feeling active, rent a bike and ride along the waterfront. Free, but bike rentals are around €10 per hour. Keep in mind that in the summer the beach tends to be packed!
La Rambla: Stroll down this iconic boulevard, full of street performers and shops. Stop by La Boqueria for some fresh snacks or a refreshing drink.
Casa Batlló: Visit another Gaudí masterpiece. Tickets cost about €35, but we promise it’s worth it, even though it hurt our wallets as well. The unique architecture and design are fascinating and Vasco got out of there with some inspiration for a future house decor.
Dinner at Cinc Sentits: For a special treat, you can try the Tickets Bar. Prices start at around €80 per person, and it’s worth it for a memorable dining experience.
Day 4: Montjuïc and Farewell
Montjuïc Hill: Take a cable car up to Montjuïc for stunning views of the city. The ride costs around €12 round-trip. Explore the gardens, the castle, and the Olympic stadium (and snap some beautiful pics).
Magic Fountain Show: In the evening, catch the Magic Fountain show. It’s free and a beautiful display of lights and music.
Final Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy a last meal at a cozy local spot like Cal Pep. Expect to pay around €30 for a satisfying dinner and a toast to your Barcelona adventure.
Barcelona is a city that never fails to charm, whether you’re soaking in Gaudí’s genius, enjoying tapas, or basking on the beach. From its vibrant streets to its rich history, Barcelona offers something for everyone. Just remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and maybe bring an extra suitcase for all the souvenirs you’ll want to bring home. Bon voyage and ¡Hasta luego!
