Long Weekend in Barcelona

Long Weekend in Barcelona: A Curated Itinerary

Arrival & Transportation

• El Prat Airport (BCN) to city options:
  • Aerobús (€6.75) to Plaça Catalunya.
  • Taxi/Uber: 25-min ride (~€30-40).
  • Metro/Train: L9 Sud metro or R2 Nord train (budget-friendly).

Accommodation Suggestions

• Luxury: Hotel Arts (Barceloneta) or Majestic Hotel (Passeig de Gràcia).
• Boutique: Hotel Brummell (Montjuïc) or Casa Camper (El Raval).
• Budget: Hostal Grau (Gothic Quarter) or Generator Hostel (Gràcia).

Day 1: Gaudí & Modernist Barcelona

• Morning:
  • Sagrada Família: Book timed tickets online (€26+). Opt for a tower tour.
  • Park Güell: Visit early (€10). Explore mosaics and city views.
• Afternoon:
  • Casa Batlló (€35) and Casa Milà (La Pedrera) (€25). Stroll Passeig de Gràcia.
• Evening:
  • Dinner in El Born at Els Quatre Gats (historic) or Mosquito (tapas).
  • Drinks at Paradiso (world-class cocktail bar).

Day 2: Gothic Quarter & Beaches

• Morning:
  • Gothic Quarter: Visit Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça Sant Felip Neri, and El Call (Jewish Quarter).
  • Picasso Museum (€12; book ahead).
• Afternoon:
  • Lunch at La Boqueria Market (try El Quim de la Boqueria).
  • Barceloneta Beach: Relax or rent a bike.
• Evening:
  • Sunset at Montjuïc (Magic Fountain show if on Thu-Sun).
  • Seafood dinner at Can Solé or Can Maño (budget-friendly).
  • Nightlife in El Raval (Bar Marsella for absinthe) or Poble Sec.

Day 3: Montserrat Day Trip or Local Exploration

• Option 1: Montserrat (½ day):
  • Train + Cable Car: FGC Line R5 from Plaça d’Espanya to Montserrat Aeri (1 hr). Hike or visit monastery.
  • Lunch: Dine at Restaurant Abat Cisneros.
• Option 2: Barcelona Highlights:
  • MNAC (National Art Museum) or Fundació Joan Miró.
  • Explore Gràcia (Parc Güell nearby) or Poblenou (street art).
• Evening:
  • Last-minute shopping on Passeig de Gràcia or in Gràcia.
  • Farewell dinner at Tickets (avant-garde tapas) or local spot in Gràcia.
  • Rooftop drinks at La Isabela (Hotel 1898) or Terraza Martínez.

Dining & Entertainment Tips

• Tapas: Cervecería Catalana, Quimet & Quimet.
• Paella: 7 Portes (historic) or Xiringuito Escribà (beachfront).
• Flamenco: Tablao Cordobes or Palau de la Música Catalana.

Essential Tips

• Transport: T-Casual ticket (10 rides, €11.35) for metro/buses.
• Safety: Beware pickpockets in crowds; use anti-theft bags.
• Local Etiquette: Dinner starts post-8:30 PM; tip 5-10% if pleased.
• Language: Basic Catalan phrases (e.g., “Bon dia” for Good morning).

Flexible Extras

• FC Barcelona: Camp Nou tour if time allows.
• Alternative Art: MACBA (contemporary art) or Street Art Tour in Poblenou.

This itinerary balances iconic sights, cultural immersion, and local flavors, adaptable to your pace and interests. Enjoy your Barcelona adventure! 🌆🇪🇸