Have you ever traveled to an exciting new city for a stopover but were too tired to go sightseeing? Even though I was jetlagged and my body thought it was the middle of the night, I was excited to be in Barcelona for 2 days to see this incredible city before embarking on a Mediterranean cruise. I enjoyed the city so much that it hardly mattered that I was super tired. Here’s my list of 11 interesting things to do in Barcelona in 2 days — even if you’re zonked!
1. Visit Sagrada Familia (Sacred Family). This is possibly Barcelona’s most popular place to visit. Begun in 1882, construction of this basilica is ongoing so this is Barcelona’s unfinished masterpiece with expected
completion in 2026. Carved nativity figures are set in the stone of the exterior just above the east door entrance. Designed by architect Antoni Gaudi, the church was clearly inspired by nature. The stunning ceiling of the nave
looks like treetops while the windows add brilliant colors to the scene. You’ll want to book your time-specific tickets in advance to avoid the long
lines. (And there’s more interesting work by Gaudi in Barcelona, if time allows, including Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, and Park Güell.)
2. Visit the Barcelona Cathedral. This Gothic-style church is beautifully maintained, including the organ and choir seats. We took the elevator to the
catwalk on the roof and enjoyed the upclose view of the spires (and of the city!). We also visited the cloister and saw the enclosed garden and pond
that is home to 13 white geese in honor of Saint Eulàlia who was martyred and died at age 13.
3. Take a stroll down La Rambla. Enjoy this popular pedestrian street with its sidewalk dining and shops. As you follow La Rambla to the sea, check out
the side streets for plenty more food and shopping options. The wavey walkway was making me crazy!
4. Walk through La Boqueria. Don’t miss this wildly popular, covered outdoor marketplace that’s lined with fresh produce, meats, fish, cheese,
sweets, bread, and even small bars and restaurants. Locals and tourists alike converge on La Boqueria.
5. See the Christopher Columbus Monument. At almost 200 ft tall, the statue of the Italian explorer stands on the place where Columbus first returned from the Americas. He’s looking over the Mediterranean but pointing away from the New World. Hmm.
6. Visit Barcelona’s port, Port Vell. The harbor is busy with shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. The boardwalk is a great place to walk and see boats, the sea, and the cable-car riders high above.
7. Experience the Gothic Quarter. Enjoy the winding streets of the oldest section of Barcelona. The area dates back to the Roman period, and you can see part of the old Roman wall that still stands. While you’re exploring,
you’ll likely see the Pont del Bisbe (Bishops Bridge) that resembles the Venice Bridge of Sighs. I was most interested in the small figures sticking out on the sides of the buildings.
8. See an indoor excavation of ancient ruins. Examine the old ruins that are on display at El Born Cultural Center. We discovered this exhibit (while looking for the Picasso Museum) and were amazed at how interesting it was. I wrote a post on the preserved ruins that you can see here.
9. Go for a bike ride through Barcelona. Barcelona is a pedestrian-friendly city with bike lanes galore. It’s a great way to see the city. Include a ride through the central park, Parc de la Ciutadella, and see the fountains, gardens, waterfall, and beautiful green space.
10. Find the Arc de Triomf! Not massive like Arc du Triomphe in Paris, but you’ll want to see it. This beautiful red stone arc was built as the gateway to the 1888 World’s Fair. As you pass through, it takes you to the Parc de la Ciutadella.
11. Explore Barcelona! The city is filled with interesting architecture, statues, gardens, fountains, plazas, shops, and restaurants. Even if you
don’t have much time to spend in Barcelona, walk through Barcelona’s older neighborhoods. Stroll through the narrow streets in the heart of the city and reflect on the history there.
With so many interesting things to do in Barcelona, I pushed through my jetlag and REALLY enjoyed my 2 days there. Glad I did!
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