Easter weekend in Barcelona: our 3-day holiday plan
Easter weekend is part of holy week. Friday 19th of April and Monday 22th of April 2019 are holidays in Barcelona.
At this time, hotel prices shoot up but it is still possible to find a room at a reasonable price, as long as you book well in advance.
Catalan Easter weekend specialties
Coming to Barcelona for Easter weekend is a chance to discover some of its traditions.
Torrijas
One of the advantages of an Easter trip is the chance to taste the seasonal culinary specialties. It is, of course, the season of eggs and chocolate, but not just that! Torrijas, a sort of fried French toast are also very popular during this period.
Mona de Pascua
This is also true for Mona de Pascua, an almond cake filled with jam and covered in melted chocolate. And as if that wasn’t enough, the Catalan people add chocolate eggs to the icing and decorate it with little figures and brightly coloured feathers. It’s not ideal if you’re on a diet, but it’s very nice to look at in a window.
Tortell de Rams
Tradition has it that godparents give their godchildren the Mona de Pascua, in the same way as the Tortell de Rams: a circular brioche filled with cream and a cooked pumpkin and honey mixture known as angel hair, and covered in preserved fruits.
Saturday: Discovering Barcelona’s historic centre
Saturday 20th of April 2019 is not a holiday so shops are open. It’s therefore a perfect day for discovering the historical centre of Barcelona and wandering down its little streets.
Walking through a market
Start by walking down the Ramblas from the Plaça Catalunya to the Boquería market among the colourful displays, the fresh produce and the lively atmosphere.
Keep going all the way down to the Raval to look around this alternative and original neighbourhood.
Wander through hundred year old streets
Then, cross back over the Ramblas and continue your walk in the Gothic quarter. Do not omit to check out Barcelona’s iconic shops around the Ramblas, and let them take you back in time.
If you feel in need of a drink then Bliss has the perfect terrace for you. Then, swing by for tapas before wandering through the Born area, to soak in its charming, bohemian atmosphere.
Sagrada familia and tapas
In the afternoon, do not miss the Sagrada Familia, it’s jaw-dropping.
- Good idea: book a guided tour in English to help you uncover all Sagrada Familia’s fascinating secrets. Click here for all the details!
In the evening, head to a bar near the Rambla Catalunya to raise a glass and try some different types of tapas!
Sunday: a day outdoors
A morning by the sea
Sit yourself down at one of the many Barceloneta terraces, before taking in the beach on the Passeig Maritim. After lounging in the sun, head to Xiringuito Escribà to enjoy a delicious paëlla by the beach. If it’s not too strenuous.
An afternoon in nature
In the afternoon take cover in the shade of Parc Güell’s palm trees. Or, if you prefer not to spend 8 euros on the entry, then Parc de la Ciutadella is also available and well worth a visit.
And if you’re looking for more action
- why not hire a Vespa?
- or take a spin in a Gocar. For a very fun way to get around Barcelona!
Farniente and tapas
After this, head to the farniente: choose one of our favourite hotel terraces and enjoy a drink while admiring the view and reflecting on how much you love holidays.
For a beautiful end to the day, enjoy the parade of flavours that is tapas at cervecería Moritz. Your taste buds will thank you!
Easter Monday: architecture and museums
A stroll along Passeig de Gràcia
Easter Sunday is a holiday and many places are closed. But that doesn’t mean there is nothing to do! Far from it…
Head out to the Passeig de Gràcia to see some of Barcelona’s architectural marvels from the 1900s. We even suggest a free walking tour on the heels of Catalan Art Nouveau. On the way, if your budget allows it, visit Casa Batlló and/or the Pedrera, two of Antoni Gaudí’s jewels.
Stop at Montjuïc
Next head to Montjuïc for a picnic in Joan Brossa park, where you can enjoy magnificent views of the city. Between the Catalan National art Museum, the Olympic stadium, Montjuïc castle and the Joan Miró foundation, there is plenty to do!
Can’t be bothered to make a picnic? No problem! Go and grab a bite at cervecería 100 montaditos, a chain of little restaurants specialising in mini-sandwiches at low prices.
Heading back down the hill toward Plaça Espanya, do not miss CaixaForum, a magnificent Modernist building that holds superb exhibitions. A great way to end the day!
