Barcelona is a city known for its vibrant life and culture, as one of the best tourist destinations in the world. It is home to a number of impressive attractions that showcase its unique atmosphere. With so much to see and do, you may be wondering where to start your trip. If you’re short on time, but want to make the most of your stay in the Catalan capital, we recommend you take a look at this route we’ve prepared for you so you know what to see in Barcelona in two days.
El ParK Güell
Park Güell was designed by Antonio Gaudí and is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic places of the Catalan capital. It is steeped in history and is one of the most famous and touristic sites in the city.
Its admirable staircase, columns, sculptures, colorful mosaics and lush vegetation are worth admiring.
The park is named after Eusebi Güel, a wealthy businessman who commissioned Gaudí to build a luxury residential complex. Once this project was abandoned, Gaudí designed the park, which has been open to the public since 1923. In 1984, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
La Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is the best known and most characteristic monument of the Catalan capital as the maximum exponent of modernist architecture created by Gaudí. Undoubtedly, it is one of the representative symbols of the city and one of the most famous in Europe.
The architect Francisco de Paula del Villar initiated the work of the Sagrada Familia, and it was the master Gaudí who continued it.
This monument is famous for its architecture and for the numerous statues inside the church. Its construction style is unique and it is worth visiting its exhibits.
If you decide to visit La Sagrada Familia we advise you to get your tickets early, as it is difficult to get them at the last minute.
La Rambla and La Boqueria market
La Rambla and La Boqueria market are two emblematic places in the city of Barcelona that offer a unique experience to visitors.
La Rambla is an iconic boulevard that has witnessed the history of the city of Barcelona for more than 200 years. It is home to some of the city’s most important buildings and monuments, such as the Palacio de la Virreina or the Statue of Cristobal Colon, and is also an ideal place for shopping, with a wide range of fashion stores, souvenirs and typical products of the region. Meanwhile, La Boqueria market is a place full of tradition dating from the thirteenth century, where you can learn about the gastronomic culture of the region.
Both places offer a vibrant and lively atmosphere that will allow you to get to know the lifestyle of the locals.
Colón Viewpoint
The Colon Viewpoint in Barcelona is a tourist attraction that is definitely worth a visit. This historical monument is a tribute to Cristóbal Colon and his discovery of America, and offers breathtaking views of the port of Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea.
Located at the end of the Rambla, the Columbus Lookout is easily accessible from any point in the city. From the top of the column, which is more than 60 meters high, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, including the Rambla, the Gothic Quarter and Montjuïc.
Paseo de Gracia: The Batlló and Milá Houses
Paseo de Gracia is one of the most important avenues in Barcelona, and is home to two of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous buildings: Casa Batlló and Casa Milá, also known as La Pedrera.
Casa Batlló and Casa Milá are two masterpieces of Catalan modernist architecture, and are considered two of Antoni Gaudí’s most representative works. Both buildings stand out for their surrealist style and their use of organic materials and shapes. Both houses were built in the early 20th century and are part of the architectural legacy of the city.
Hospital de la Sant Creu i Sant Pau modernist site
The Art Nouveau Site of the Hospital de la Sant Creu i Sant Pau is a masterpiece of the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, who built it between 1902 and 1930. The complex is an exceptional example of Catalan modernist architecture, characterized by its artistic style and attention to detail. It has a large number of gardens and interior courtyards that are a true marvel. The gardens are full of exotic trees and plants, as well as fountains and sculptures that make the atmosphere even more pleasant. On the grounds, we find a museum where you can see exhibits and historical objects.
The Bunkers of Carmel
The bunkers of Carmel is a viewpoint located at the top of the Turó de la Rovira from which you can see all of Barcelona, with a height of 262 meters. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city, including the main tourist attractions such as the Sagrada Familia, the Port of Barcelona, the Agbar Tower, Park Guell and Tibidabo.
The Bunkers are a vestige of the Spanish Civil War, as it is an old military structure that was used as an anti-aircraft bunker during the war. The site has been restored and can now be visited to appreciate both the history and architecture of the structure.
Gothic Quarter
The Roman Barcino, which gave rise to the city of Barcelona, had its origin in what is now known as the Gothic Quarter.
The Gothic Quarter is the historic heart of Barcelona and is full of buildings and monuments from different periods and architectural styles, ranging from Roman times to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Here you can admire ancient walls, churches, palaces and squares that will take you back in time. A real beauty for any self-respecting visitor.
The Monastery of Pedralbes
The Pedralbes Monastery is a historical and religious monument located in the Pedralbes district of Barcelona. It is one of the best examples of Catalan Gothic architecture and has an impressive set of buildings and gardens. It was founded in 1326 by Queen Elisenda de Montcada as a monastery for nuns of the order of the Poor Clares and has been very well preserved to the present day.
The monastery houses an impressive collection of works of art, including paintings, sculptures and liturgical objects. It also has a library with a collection of manuscripts and antique books dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries.
In conclusion, Barcelona is a unique and fascinating city that offers a wealth of tourist attractions for all tastes. Although two days may seem like a short time to explore it, with good planning it is possible to see the most emblematic places and discover some lesser-known corners. If you don’t know where to stay while visiting the Catalan capital, take a look at our accommodations in booking hotel, we are waiting for you!