24 hours in Barcelona: our hour by hour schedule

Our challenge: to show you that it is possible to discover the many different sides of Barcelona in one day and one night. On the condition, of course, that you are in good physical shape. If you have energy to spare follow our action plan for 24 hours of madness in Barcelona. On your marks, get set, go!

9am: Be amazed by the Sagrada Familia

Start your discovery of Barcelona in style with a visit to the Sagrada Familia, a real architectural wonder. We advise you to go around 9am as there are fewer people. Expect the visit to take between an hour and an hour and a half.

11am: Take a walk in Parc Güell

Stay on the Gaudí trail by exploring Parc Güell, another of the city’s incomparable monuments. You will get plenty of fresh air while admiring the magnificent unfinished garden city. It’s a real pleasure!

1pm: Refuel with tapas near the Rambla Catalunya

Take the time to lean against a bar while tasting the local specialties. The popular tapas bars recommended in this article are perfect for this: the products are fresh and varied and the service is often very efficient.

However, do remember to get there for 1pm (or even earlier) or else you may have to queue and lose quite a bit of precious time.

2pm: Stroll down the Passeig de Gràcia

These bars are located right by the Passeig de Gràcia, one of the city’s most beautiful avenues. You can stroll towards the Ramblas and discover on the way Gaudí’s Casa Batlló or Casa Milà, two superb examples of Catalan art nouveau.

2:30pm: Explore the Ramblas

After admiring the superb facades of the Passeig de Gràcia and crossed the Plaça Catalunya, you will find yourself on the Ramblas, where you will surely be struck by the level of activity: bird and flower kiosks, street painters…Do not forget to stop at the Boquería market where a veritable voyage for your senses awaits.

15h30:  Immerse yourself in the Gòtic district

On the other side of the Ramblas, you can take a trip through time. The narrow streets of the Gothic quarter will transport you to medieval Barcelona, a place full of mysteries. Allow yourself to be seduced by the old stones, the ancient palaces and little boutiques. You will not want to leave!

5pm: Discover the Picasso Museum

Your happy feet will then take you to the neighbouring district of the Born where the Picasso museum of Barcelona is located. There is often a queue but be patient because it is really worth the wait.

8pm: Have a drink on the beach

Recovered from all the emotional stimulation? After a potential nap in your hotel or apartment it is time for a drink. And since you’re in Barcelona you can relax after your long day, rich in discovery, by enjoying a drink on the sandy beach. From April to November, the ephemeral bars and restaurants are installed along the beachfront. Needless to say, it’s better in Summer…

9:30pm: Dinner in a warm atmosphere

If you’re in Barcelona during the Summer you can dine at the beach (notably at Gallito, at the foot of the hotel W). But off season, opt for la Fianna, where, in a very pretty setting, you can refuel and gather your strength for the night to come.

11pm: Take a tour of the bars

And yes! You’re here for 24 hours so you may as well enjoy it! Dive into the Barcelona nightlife and adopt the local custom of touring the bars. Atmosphere is guaranteed! The Born, Raval and Poble Sec are the best areas for moving easily from bar to bar!

2am: Finish in a night club

And to end the day in style, head to the nightclubs. Whether you are more into commercial music, electro or latin, there will be a club night that’s made for you. Don’t forget to check our Night Club section to find out more.

5am: A short night before leaving

Towards 5am, the atmosphere starts to calm down and the party animals start to head home. Head to the hotel to sleep a few hours before saying goodbye to Barcelona…you will come back, that’s for sure. And next time hopefully for a longer stay!