How to Spend a Layover in Barcelona
Oh, Barcelona! City of leafy streets, gothic architecture, and really great food.
I had a layover in Barcelona for less than 24 hours, but I still managed to see quite a lot! Fortunately I had been here previously, so I didn’t feel pressured to see everything, and I had a short list of sites I wanted to see again. So if you find yourself short on time too, I have a couple recommendations that will definitely fill half a day!
A few tips before you go:
Like with any major city, try to visit the popular places as early in the day as possible. It’s much more pleasant before the crowds, and you can appreciate the sites without feeling like you’re in a zoo.
Barcelona is walkable! The streets are really safe, and strolling is a great pace to take in a city rather than zipping past things on a bus. Plus, you’ll save money.
La Sagrada Familia
What is a trip to Barcelona without a visit here? The best view point is in the park across the street, where you can get a beautiful reflection in the pond. Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior has enough detail and interest that you could stare at it for hours and not get bored. I actually still haven’t been inside!
Arc de Triumf
A lot of major cities have an Arc de Triomphe (Paris, New York, Delhi, etc) but this one is unique in the red brick color and carvings that feature bats and agriculture symbols. The promenade towards the beach is also really fun to walk, especially at sunset. It was interesting to watch rollerskaters, skateboarders, workout groups and picnics going on. Continue south to Ciutadella Park for more people watching.
Gothic Quarter
The perfect place to get lost. Take whatever turn suits you, and see what you stumble upon. Make sure you stop by Bishop’s Bridge and Cathedral of Barcelona. Walking around sunset or even after dark makes a great atmosphere.
Casa Batllo
I passed here on my walk to La Sagrada Familia, and while there of course is so much to see inside, just looking at the facade is a treat in itself. Make sure you get a look from across the street too!
That’s about all I had time for on my short layover. As I said, I’d already seen some other big sites (Parc Guell, Playa de la Barceloneta, Montjuic) that are definitely worth checking out if you have more than 24 hours! But this itinerary is doable all on foot, even at a rambling pace.
Where to Stay
I loved Hotel Regina. The staff was so friendly, and they upgraded me to larger room at no cost! It felt luxurious but was actually really affordable. The location right off La Rambla sets you up for so many dining and shopping options, but is still quiet enough.
Where to Eat
Honest Greens was my favorite for healthy, clean food. Lots of vegetarian options, and lush decor. Brunch and Cake had an amazing acai bowl that I enjoyed for breakfast after walking to La Sagrada Familia. I had so many more restaurants on my list that I wish I could have stayed longer just to try them! I was really impressed with the food scene in Barcelona.
