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3 Days in Barcelona: The Best Itinerary for Your Visit
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Best Things to Do with 3 Days in Barcelona
Itinerary in Barcelona: day 1
The Sagrada Familia
Kick your Barcelona itinerary of 3 days off by paying a visit to the iconic La Sagrada Familia. This unfinished church is perhaps the most iconic work of the famed architect Antoni Gaudí, and it is one of the city's most recognisable locations. Prepare to be amazed by the exterior and the interior of this unique UNESCO World Heritage site that has been under construction since 1882. You will be struck by the building's 3 facades and its unique steeples. Once you go inside, take note of the 36 columns designed to represent a forest full of trees as well as the spectacular stained glass windows. Individual and group tickets are available, and the opening hours vary throughout the year.
The Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau
Sticking with the architectural theme for day one of your 3-day Barcelona itinerary, we recommend a visit to the hidden gem that is the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau. It is just a short 10-minute stroll from the La Sagrada Familia and was constructed between 1905 and 1930. This unique UNESCO World Heritage Site was designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, who is also known for works like the Palau de la Musica. You are sure to be wowed by the intricate tile work at this structure that originally served as one of the city's hospitals. You can also tour the on-site gardens. Opening hours run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
Itinerary in Barcelona: day 2
The Gothic Quarter
For the second part of your Barcelona itinerary of 3 days, it is time to explore several of the city's most iconic neighbourhoods. Start things off in the famed Gothic Quarter. Its narrow streets are home to a huge selection of art galleries, cafes, restaurants, bars and boutiques. You can easily spend hours just wandering around and people-watching in this area while conveniently stopping off for a bite to eat and something to drink whenever you feel like it. During your walk, make sure you look up so you can enjoy the architectural style that has helped to make this corner of the city so popular.
La Rambla
We now head to what is considered to be Barcelona's most famed pedestrian street. Known as La Rambla, this is an area that is lined with trees that stretches for 1.2 kilometres. It is home to a huge array of terraces, shops, flower stalls and kiosks. You may also want to check out the living statues during your visit. A couple of notable points of interest include La Boqueria Market, the Liceu Opera House and the Canaletes Fountain.
Itinerary in Barcelona: day 3
Sagrat Cor
If you are looking for some of the most spectacular views of the Barcelona area, you want to pay a visit to Sagrat Cor. It is also referred to as the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This iconic church is located on top of Mount Tibidabo. Upon reaching it, you will be greeted by panoramic views of the surrounding region. The best ones can be found when you climb the church's towers. Getting there is easy. You simply head to the local tram's Tramvia Blau - Tibidabo stop. From there, take the Blue Tram until you reach the Tibidabo Funicular Station, where you will take the funicular up the mountain.
Enjoy an unforgettable Barcelona dining and nightlife experience
What better way could there be to complete your Barcelona itinerary of 3 days than by going out for a world-class dining and nightlife experience? There is a nearly endless list of options you can check out. If you want a pre-dinner drink, head to Plaça Reial. A few restaurant recommendations include Ziryab Fusion Tapas Bar, Disfrutar and Lasarte. After your meal, it is time to head out for some great nightlife. You will find plenty of options for beer, wine and cocktails, as well as live bands and DJ sets. Hotspots to check out include Port Olimic, Moog and Sidecar.
Places to visit around Barcelona
Girona
An hour and 13 minutes to the north of Barcelona, you will find the iconic city of Girona. It is one of our top recommendations for day-trip excursions outside the city during your 3-day itinerary. The area is famed for its architecture and history that extends deep into antiquity. During your visit, you will want to check out the Jewish Quarter, Girona Cathedral and the Plaça Independencia. You will also want to spend plenty of time simply exploring the unique streets while discovering incredible views from atop the well-preserved medieval walls.
Tarragona
If you head down the coast an hour and 20 minutes to the southwest, you will come to the historic city of Tarragona. It is another one of our top recommendations for nearby places to visit during your Barcelona itinerary of 3 days. The city is synonymous with the Roman era of Spain and is also home to many iconic landmarks from the medieval period. While you are in the area, be sure to check out the ancient circus, walls, praetorium and amphitheatre. Must-see points of interest also include the National Archaeological Museum, the Mediterranean Balcony and Platja del Miracle.
Where to stay in Barcelona
1. InterContinental Barcelona
With 273 luxurious guestrooms, the InterContinental Barcelona is one of our top recommendations for your Barcelona itinerary of 3 days booked through Voyage Privé. It is a modern, sophisticated property that is close to popular points of interest like La Sagrada Familia and the Gothic District. During your stay, you will be comfortably accommodated in a Classic MNAC View Room or a City View Room.
This fantastic accommodation is home to an extensive range of facilities and amenities that include a spa, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a sauna, Wi-Fi, a concierge service and air conditioning. Restaurant and bar facilities include the Quirat Restaurant, the Boira Coffee Lounge, 173 Rooftop Terrace and Gebre Bar.
What we like: We like this property's idyllic location in the heart of Barcelona as well as its fabulous leisure and dining facilities. Fantastic city views from the rooftop are another thing you can look forward to for your stay.
2. H10 The One Barcelona 5*
You can choose from 88 luxurious rooms and suites when you book your stay at the H10 The One Barcelona 5*. It enjoys a premium location that is just minutes from the most iconic monuments and points of interest that you will find in the city. This includes Gaudí’s La Pedrera as well as the renowned Passeig de Gràcia.
A quick rundown of some of the key features and amenities that you can look forward to during your Barcelona itinerary of 3 days include a fitness centre, a sauna, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa, the Mood Rooftop Bar and the Somni Restaurant & Cocktail Bar. You will enjoy in-room facilities such as bathrobes, a coffee machine, air conditioning and a safe.
What we like: We love the fact that this property offers panoramic views that can be enjoyed from the 9th-floor plunge pool as well as its convenient location near top attractions.
3. Ohla Barcelona 5*
The Ohla Barcelona 5* is a boutique hotel that features 74 rooms as well as an impressive list of guest services you can enjoy during your Barcelona itinerary of 3 days. It is located in the heart of the city and features a gourmet restaurant that is the proud owner of a Michelin star.
During your stay at this luxurious accommodation, you will enjoy incredible city views from the rooftop as well as leisure facilities that include a fitness centre and an outdoor swimming pool. The property also has a 24-hour reception desk, air conditioning, a concierge service, babysitting and Wi-Fi.
What we like: We love this fabulous Barcelona property's location near many of the best beaches, museums, bars and shopping outlets in the city. This is complemented by the hotel's on-site Michelin-star restaurant.
4. W Barcelona 5*
The W Barcelona 5* is a fabulous property in the heart of the city that features 473 rooms as well as 67 suites. It is ideally located for a 3-day itinerary spent exploring the city's amazing architecture as well as its world-class beaches, dining and nightlife.
During your stay, you will be treated to amenities and services that include indoor and outdoor pools, a luxurious spa, a fitness centre, a rooftop bar, terraces with amazing views and an impressive lineup of on-site restaurant and bar facilities.
What we like: We love this property's luxurious Spa by W Barcelona, where you can take advantage of an extensive menu of rejuvenating treatments. You will also love the panoramic sea view you can take in from the hotel's terraces.
5. Ilunion Barcelona 4*
Home to 224 large guestrooms, the Ilunion Barcelona 4* is one of the city's top-rated booking options for the 3-day itinerary you are looking forward to. You will love the spectacular city views that are available from the hotel's outdoor rooftop swimming pool and will be comfortably accommodated in a Standard Room with breakfast served each morning.
Key amenities featured at this popular accommodation include a fitness centre, an on-site restaurant, a 24-hour reception desk and a laundry service. During your stay, you will enjoy in-room features like air conditioning, a TV, a safe and a hairdryer.
What we like: We love this hotel's excellent location in one of Barcelona's most vibrant neighbourhoods as well as its top amenities, such as the outdoor rooftop pool.
Practical tips for visiting Barcelona
A few top tips that we have for your Barcelona itinerary of 3 days include scheduling your getaway during the shoulder season to avoid the largest crowds and booking tickets to major attractions in advance to avoid missing out. Beyond this, you may want to bring your beach gear, sunglasses, sun hats and sandals or flip-flops. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for walking around between various points of interest. The official language in Barcelona is Spanish, and the local currency is the euro. If you plan to use any of your electronics that utilise a UK outlet, you will need a travel adapter. To save money getting around by avoiding taxi service fees, make use of the Barcelona metro. You can also purchase a City Pass that will make it easy to see the best sights and sounds that the area has to offer.
When to visit Barcelona
Spring and autumn bookings are highly recommended for your Barcelona itinerary of 3 days. While it is warm and the weather is nice during these months, you avoid the largest tourist crowds and the highest annual prices. Still, a visit during the summer months is perfect if you want to spend time soaking up the sun when temperatures are at their peak.
How to get to Barcelona
Booking your flights from the United Kingdom to Barcelona is easy, with regularly scheduled routes available daily from the country's leading travel hubs. The primary arrivals airport in the area is Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport. You can expect an average in-air time of around 2 hours and 10 minutes. Upon landing, you have a variety of options for getting to your hotel and around the area. There are plenty of train, tram and bus routes available, as well as a variety of taxi services that operate across the city. You might also consider hiring a car for an added level of convenience and the ability to take things at your own pace during your Barcelona itinerary of 3 days.
What to eat in Barcelona
Spain is a European destination that is famed for its world-class gastronomic offerings, and the city of Barcelona is no exception to this rule. During your 3-day itinerary, we recommend sampling local favourites like Jamon Iberico ham, gazpacho, patatas bravas and paella. Trying authentic Spanish tapas is a must during your visit. You can even find a few select locations that serve a free tapas dish with a drink order.
3 Days in Barcelona: The Best Itinerary for Your Visit, customer reviews
Hotel Miramar Barcelona (Barcelona - Spain)
Customers testify
Score
8.4
Review
- Very pleasant staff, very attentive (in English)
- Worthy of a grand hotel Services
- Catering: breakfast in varied buffet and good quality, very good restaurant (small menu but good products)
- Bedroom: Bedding + stunning views + cleanliness (premium room)
- Location on upper Barcelona, ??beautiful view
- Quiet (nearby gardens)
- Excellent Mojitos