W E L C O M E TO TH E
G O O D L I F E
I N
B A R C E L O N A
P L A N N I N G
Barcelona is a city that rewards both structured exploration and spontaneous wandering. Its diverse neighborhoods each offer something distinct, from the Gothic Quarter’s medieval maze to Eixample’s grand boulevards, and the city’s compact but bustling layout means that a bit of thoughtful planning helps avoid backtracking.
While Barcelona is walkable, the hills of Montjuïc and Park Güell, as well as the distances between certain neighborhoods, make private transport or the strategic use of taxis and public transit a smart choice.
Barcelona is best visited in spring (April–June) or autumn (September–November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner. Summer is hot and lively but packed to the gills with tourists, while winter is quieter but still offers plenty to see.
For accommodation, staying near Passeig de Gràcia or in El Born balances convenience and charm, while Eixample offers a more polished, residential feel.
Barceloneta, right by the sea, is great for a more laid-back, beach-oriented experience.
M U S E U M & S I T E B O O K I N G
Sagrada Família: Gaudí’s masterpiece is Barcelona’s most visited attraction—pre-book skip-the-line tickets to avoid long waits. A visit with one of our guides enriches the experience with details of Gaudí’s vision and symbolism—and without spoiling too much, tells you a lot about the craziness of his obsession.
Park Güell: Another Gaudí highlight, this colorful park requires advance booking, especially for the Monumental Zone. As is usual, morning visits offer softer light and fewer crowds.
Picasso Museum: Housing one of the most extensive collections of the artist’s early works, the museum is best explored in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak hours.
Casa Batlló & La Pedrera: These two Modernist marvels on Passeig de Gràcia offer immersive experiences into Gaudí’s imagination. Nighttime visits at La Pedrera, with rooftop light shows, are a special way to experience the space.
Boqueria Market: While entry is free, arriving early (before 10 AM) lets you see it at its liveliest, before it fills with crowds. That said, maybe the madness is an experience in its own right.
Montjuïc: A mix of museums, gardens, and historic sites, including the Joan Miró Foundation,
MNAC (Catalonia’s National Art Museum), and the Magic Fountain light show in the evening.
Penedès Wine Region: For those interested in Catalan wine & cava, a day trip to the vineyards of Penedès is a worthy escape.
S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A R Y P O I N T S
DAY I
Gaudí & the Gothic Quarter
Morning: Begin at Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s extraordinary and perpetually-unfinished basilica. A guided tour offers insight into its intricate symbolism and ongoing construction.
Walk down Passeig de Gràcia, stopping at Casa Batlló for a visit, & La Pedrera to admire its surreal facades.
Lunch: Dine at a classic Catalan eatery in the Eixample district, trying dishes like escudella i carn d’olla (Catalan stew) or suquet de peix (fisherman’s stew).
Afternoon: Explore the Gothic Quarter, winding through its narrow medieval streets. Visit the Cathedral of Barcelona and Plaça del Rei, where Columbus was received by the Spanish monarchs upon returning from the New World. Stop by the Picasso Museum, which focuses on the artist’s early works.
Evening: Head to El Born, a lively neighborhood known for its tapas bars and vibrant nightlife. Try pintxos (small bites on skewers) alongside a glass of vermouth or cava.
DAY II
Markets, Montjuïc & Mediterranean Views
Morning: Start at Boqueria Market, where you can sample fresh fruit, Iberian ham, and local cheeses. Take the funicular or cable car up Montjuïc, where you’ll find the Joan Miró Foundation, MNAC, and beautiful panoramic views of the city.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch on Montjuïc, perhaps at a spot overlooking the harbor.
Afternoon: Relax at Barceloneta Beach, or take a sailing excursion along the Mediterranean.
Evening: Dine at a contemporary Catalan restaurant, where chefs reinterpret traditional flavors in innovative ways.
DAY III PLUS
You might also wish to stay longer, and here's why we think you should:
For those with more time, consider a day trip:
Penedès Wine Region: Sample Catalan wines & sparkling cava at vineyards just outside the city.
Costa Brava: Explore the rugged coastline, charming fishing villages, and crystal-clear waters.
Montserrat: A stunning mountain retreat with a centuries-old monastery and breathtaking views.
M E E T Y O U R G U I D E
All of our guides can offer you a spectacular experience. As each person has a slightly different look at the world, due to their own unique interests and specialties, we'd encourage you to read a few profiles.
