10 Things to Do in Barcelona: A Solo Female Traveler’s Guide
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For me, Barcelona is one of those cities that really has it all. Form incredible gothic architecture, to the incredible food, to the insane beaches, that will never make you want to leave. Barcelona has it! As someone how has explored Barcelona, and cannot wait to go back, I always come prepared with a list of day trips I want to take, new neighborhoods to stay in while in Barcelona, and things I want to see. In this guide, I will be showcasing all of things to do in Barcelona, tips I have learned along the way, and everything you need to know for your next Barcelona adventure.
Introduction: Things to do in Barcelona
Whether you are planning your first solo adventure or your 10th, I feel like every time you come back, it’s just as exciting as the first time that you arrive. The city is ever-changing, and there are always news things to see and do and of course eat, regardless of the time of year! I am excited to share my curated list of all of my favorite things to do in Barcelona in hopes you find something new to see, or these adventures get you excited as you plan your next trip. Now, let’s dive in!
Best Things to do in Barcelona
1. La Sagrada Família
So, of course, at the top of my list, is none other than the La Sagrada Familia. This is a perfect example of gothic architecture in Barcelona that has been ever-changing. This basilica is truly one of a kind. I can remember this day, and it was probably about 15 years ago, the first time I laid eyes on this incredible building. It was truly breathtaking, and even more so when I got inside. The ceilings, the glass, the lights, the pillars, the coloring, everything about La Sagrada is grand and quite stunning.
This structure is a Barcelona icon and should be at the top of your list of the top things to do in Barcelona. I would recommend getting tickets ahead of time as well, since this is such a popular place to visit. I promise you an incredible experience of astonishment, and you will leave feeling grounded, calm, and maybe even a little emotional just from stepping inside.
Pro Tip: It’s a very crowded area, so keep your belongings secure, book your tickets in advance, and if you want spectacular photos outside, visit at sunrise or near sunset.
2. Gothic Quarter
One of my favorite neighborhoods to not only stay in while I am in Barcelona, but also just wander around and get lost in, is the Gothic Quarter. There is something about the narrow alleys that are fun to walk through, the incredible architecture, and the fun little shops, that make me love visiting this neighborhood every time I go to Barcelona.
If you are a solo traveler like I am, then staying in the Gothic Quarters is safe by day and night. I would recommend, however, if you are out at night, staying on the busier walkways where more people are, versus taking some of the smaller more secluded alleyways.
Pro Tip: Always take a picture of the hotel business card so you know the address and always keep your belongings in front of you when walking around busier areas.
3. Park Güell
If you are looking for a storybook moment and something unlike you’ve ever seen, then you absolutely need to at Park Guell to your list of things to do in Barcelona. This UNESCO world heritage site is truly one of a kind in my opinion.
If you do plan to visit, I would highlight recommend visiting with a guide, so that you can get the complete history and commentary regarding this site. While they tell you everything you need to know, you can marvel at the entire garden, the modernist structures, the colorful mosaics, and the views of Barcelona. This is one of Gaudi’s masterpieces in my opinion.
This is a great place for solo travelers, families, and really anyone wanting to experience this incredible site.
4. La Boqueria Market
Ok, so, if you have read any of my other blog posts, then you know by now, that I love to eat my way through every city/country that I visit. And of course, Barcelona was no different. Visiting the La Boqueria Market is a great way to try all sorts of local foods at great prices. I tried some amazing seafood tapas, and this was actually my first oyster shooter experience (I am not a fan)!
This market is a one-stop shop of all of your food needs and is really a haven for all of us foodies to experience everything that Barcelona has to offer food-wise.
Pro Tip: Try and go early when they open before the crowds show up, as the lines are much shorter.
5. Barcelona Bike Tour
One of my favorite ways to explore a city is to either do a walking tour or a bike tour, especially my first full day in the city. A bike tour is a great way to get an overview of the city, see some highlights, and know what areas to come back to. It’s also a great way to get some movement in, particularly after a long flight.
My Barcelona bike tour that I did was about 3 hours of riding and stopping, and commentary, so it was a perfect blend of seeing the highlights, getting around town, and learning about some of the iconic attractions. There is also something super free about riding along the coastline or in the city, with the breeze, admiring all of the architecture, and smelling all of the amazing foods.
One the bike tour I did, which was great, we went through downtown Barcelona and say the Palau, visited the harbor, Barcelona Cathedral, La Sagrada, the Arc di Trionfo, some off the beaten path neighborhoods like El Born, and through several popular squares.
As a solo traveler, this was a great way to see a lot of attractions and areas I may have missed, I was able to go back and explore areas I really like, and I was able to meet other solo travelers on my bike tour. I really felt like I was a part of Barcelona instead of just another tourist.
6. Casa Batlló & Casa Milà
Another masterpiece by Gaudi is the Casa Batllo and the Casa Mila. Visiting here you literally feel like you are visiting an outdoor museum. Between the incredible stonework, balconies that are made from iron, and just the meticulous details that you are surprised with around every corner, this is truly an incredible experience.
My first visit here was in 2014, and I just remember how mesmerized I felt just watching the lights shine through the stained glass like they were dancing and how excited and emotional you feel. I am pretty sure it’s a one-of-a-kind experience, from what I have seen, and there is truly nothing like it anywhere that I am aware of.
This is great spot to add to your things to do in Barcelona itinerary if you can and just be ready to be completely mesmerized and prepared for a visually enchanting experience and enjoy the incredible architecture.
Pro Tip: If you are solo travel like me, this area is very safe, it’s well lit, and there are lots of fun shops and cafe to pop into either before or after your visit.
7. Barceloneta Beach & the Waterfront
You absolutely cannot go to Barcelona and not visit their iconic beaches. My favorite beach in Barcelona is Barceloneta Beach. Between just laying out and enjoying the sunshine, reading my book, and people watching, the vibe in this coastal city is super laid-back, and one of the main reasons I feel in love with it.
My first trip to Barcelona, I stumbled upon during my bike tour and thank goodness I did. I was able to go back the next day and thoroughly enjoy everything it has to offer. The boardwalk has tons of things to do and there is always lots of street entertainment. You can see anything from jugglers, to musicians, all while you have families walking around, roller skaters, and just tons of people buzzing around, enjoying the boardwalk and waterfront views.
Now, this area is very lively and busy, but if that’s not your jam, then head to Bogatell or hope on the train and head to Ocata for less crowds and more of a local’s type experience.
8. Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
I know a lot of cities have this, and some people find them super cheesy, but I absolutely love seeing a water show. The Magic Fountain of Montjuic is beautiful choregraphed with the music the water, and the lights, and watching it was absolutely memorizing.
The best part of this activity is that it is absolutely free! It’s a great spot to come before or after dinner, and if you are a solo trawler, also meet fellow solo travelers.
Pro Tip: The fountain show is occasionally close, especially in the winter, during water conservation, and maintenance periods, so always check the schedule before going to ensure it is operational.
9. Bunkers del Carmel
Now, if you love city views like I do, and want to know where the best views in Barcelona are, then I would highly recommend visiting Bunkers del Carmel. The sunset views here are unmatched, and you have 360-degree views of all of Barcelona. From the towering La Sagrada to the incredible costline, and everything in between, you can see it all from here!
Plan to visit right before sunset, pack some snacks, and just sit and enjoy the views. You can capture some incredible Instagrammable views that you will remember for a lifetime. I feel like a lot of locals’ hangout here, so you will see a variety of people all enjoying the views soaking in every moment.
Pro Tip: Make sure you get there early to get a great spot and wear comfortable walking shoes as the up can be quite steep.
10. Montserrat Day Trip
If you want to take a break from the city, and enjoy some day trips from Barcelona, I have tons of recs, but one of my favorite day trips is to Montserrat. Visiting here literally makes you feel you are in a completely different world. Between the incredible mountains, the culture, and the natural wonders, you will visit and leave feel like you were in a spiritual retreat.
Between the fresh air, visiting the museum, basilica, and taking the funicular up the trails, Montserrat just instantly gives you this feeling of calmness and peace every time I visit.
I highly recommend if it’s your first time visiting to do a tour for the commentary and the convenience of being picked up at your hotel in Barcelona. However, if you have visited before and/or are good navigating cities, then you can also get here directly via a train from Place Espanya.
Pro Tip: Bring layers for weather changes and comfortable hiking shoes so that you can explore some of the trails while you are here.
Conclusion: Things to Do in Barcelona
Barcelona for me is a city I can visit multiple times. Between the beaches, the basilicas, the food, the neighborhoods, there is no shortage of things to do in Barcelona. Even though I am a solo traveler, there is honestly something to do for every traveler type and for every budget and is a destination that I feel like you can visit year-round. I hope this guide on the best things to do in Barcelona has helped you with your Barcelona itinerary. If you have questions, need planning help, or any tips, reach out to me anytime!