2024 Barcelona Breakdown

You won't find many cities with a more authentic history and culture than Barcelona. Known for it's beautiful architecture, scenic Mediterranean beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Barcelona ranks among the very best cities to visit in Europe.

In fact, there is so much to do here that it can be overwhelming to the traveler who has not done enough research. To remedy this we've put together a list of some of the top tourist attractions, tips for getting around the city, and general best practices.

Top Tourist Attractions in Barcelona

1. Explore the Gothic Quarter

Barcelona's Gothic Quarter is actually the oldest part of the city. With that comes a rich history that spans back centuries. Here you can see architecture such as cathedrals, a medieval palace, and even walls from Roman times! It's a great area to walk around with lots of shops, cafes, and things to do. Don't skip out on this iconic part of the city.

2. Visit the Pablo Picasso Museum

The Pablo Picasso Museum (Museu Picasso Barcelona) is a mandatory stop for anyone interested in the art or life of Pablo Picasso. The museum houses an impressive collection of thousands of the artist's sketches, drawings, and paintings. It's a great way to take a look into his formative years and see firsthand the influences Barcelona had on his art.

3. Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is one of the famous architect Antoni Gaudi's masterpieces. Construction began in 1882 and it still isn't finished, making it the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world! Even though it isn't finished it is still undeniably beautiful. The Sagrada Familia is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important cultural landmark in Barcelona.

4. La Rambla

La Rambla is a perfect area to explore when you first arrive to Barcelona. The pedestrian boulevard passes famous historical landmarks, tapas bars, and kiosks. Expect an entertaining walk, as Las Ramblas is lined by a multitude of human statues and other street performers. The famous street runs from the water into the heart of the Gothic Quarter.

5. La Boqueria Market

Easily accessible from La Rambla, Mercat de la Boqueria is one of the most popular markets in all of Barcelona. This traditional market is home to hundreds of stalls selling everything from cold cuts and meats to drinks and sweets. The market has been around since the 13th century, and anything that's withstood the test of time for that long has to be worth a visit! The market can also be reached via Barcelona's metro.

Barcelona FAQs

1. When is the best time to visit Barcelona?

The best time to visit Barcelona is between May and June when the weather is warm but not too hot. Spain can really heat up during the Summer, but being on the coast benefits Barcelona. Keep in mind, May - September is high season so you will encounter the most tourists then.

2. How can I get around Barcelona?

Barcelona offers a very robust transportation system that allows tourists to navigate the city with ease. One of the best options is the metro, which gets you right in front of or within walking distance of the major tourist destinations. You can also take the hop-on hop-off tourist bus, which will take you right to some of the city's most iconic landmarks.

3. Is Barcelona safe?

Yes, Barcelona is generally a safe city to visit. Serious crimes among tourists and travelers are rare. Unfortunately, pickpocketing has become common to the point where Barcelona has been labeled "the pickpocketing capital of Europe." Be wary in crowded areas and while taking public transportation.

Definitely pack your Aviator Best Travel Jeans for this trip! The hidden zipper pockets will help you navigate crowded areas with confidence.

4. What should I wear in Barcelona?

If you are visiting during the warmer months, definitely pack for hot weather. Men will get a lot of use from Aviator Jeans but should definitely bring shorts, which are actually gaining popularity in Europe so you won't stand out as much as you would have years ago. Consider trying out the Non-Stop Travel Short 3.0 to save space if you're planning on going to the beach as well.

Women should pack one pair of indigo jeans as well as a pair of non denim pants. The Aviator Women's Jean Collection has many great options. Women should also consider packing a dress or skirt to blend in with the local style. The Chambray Dress is a great choice for day or night. 

If you are planning on enjoying Barcelona's nightlife, pack clothes that are on the nicer side as well. You likely won't be turned away from most places, but it is a good idea to dress with a bit of style and comfort. It's also good practice to dress nice and respectful while visiting the city's cathedrals as well.

Our goal here at Aviator is to help you travel with confidence. We hope that this guide and our travel clothing have been helpful in planning for your next adventure. Safe travels!