Barcelona is a city that is full of history, art, and culture. With its rich history and stunning architecture, Barcelona promises an experience like no other. There are many famous landmarks in Barcelona that tell the story of the city’s exciting timeline.
From the famous Las Ramblas to the iconic Sagrada Família, a visit to Barcelona is sure to leave you feeling inspired and awestruck. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking architecture, impressive landmarks, or fascinating history and culture, Barcelona has something for everyone.
Visiting Barcelona – Useful City Passes
When visiting Barcelona, there are some city passes and tickets which can be a good time and cost savers if you are planning to visit major attractions. Here are some things to check out.
- Barcelona Card: Access over 25 attractions and public transportation with a 3,4, or 5-day city pass.
- Barcelona Go City Explorer Pass: Entry to 2-7 selected attractions from over 45 options. Good for flexibility!
- Museum Pass: Skip-the-Line entry to 6 top art museums for the art lovers and museum nuts.
- Barcelona City Transport Pass: Unlimited access to the transportation networks in the city for 1-4 days. Great for moving around the city!
- Hop-on-Hop-off Bus: 1-2 days pass on the Hop-on-Hop-Off bus for convenient access to various touristic points.
- Private Airport Transfer: If you are coming in or leaving by flight, the most convenient option to travel between your hotel and Barcelona Airport.
With so many amazing sights and attractions to discover, this vibrant city is the perfect destination. Here are some of the famous landmarks in Barcelona you can visit on your trip.
Most Famous Spanish Landmark in Barcelona
La Sagrada Família
The most famous landmark in Barcelona has to be the La Sagrada Família, often considered to be the crowning achievement of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí.
Construction on this magnificent church began in 1882 and is still ongoing today. Although over 80% of the building has been constructed, it may not be completed until 2026. The architecture is an incredible combination of Gothic and Art Nouveau which is Gaudí’s signature style.
Despite the unfinished state of La Sagrada Família, it’s still a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Barcelona. The exterior is covered in intricate carvings and towering columns, while the interior features beautiful stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and breathtaking artwork that adorns every surface.
La Sagrada Família is a very popular attraction but you can get a fast-track ticket to enter; it’s well worth to see this incredible building up close. You can get a guided tour and even go up one of the towers for a breathtaking view of the city.
Religious Landmarks in Barcelona
Catedral de Barcelona (Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia)
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, also known as the Barcelona Cathedral, is a Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the city.
The construction of the cathedral began in 1298 on the site of an earlier Romanesque church, and it wasn’t completed until 1448. The main façade of the cathedral is known as the Porta dels Apostles, and it was completed in 1877.
As you explore the interior of the cathedral, you’ll be struck by its incredible size, soaring ceilings, and awe-inspiring artwork. The magnificent stained glass windows are a highlight, as are the intricate carvings and Chapels of the Virgins and Saints.
The Barcelona Cathedral is free to enter, though there is a charge for climbing the stairs to the roof terraces. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city.
Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar
The Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar is one of Barcelona’s most beautiful landmarks. The church, which is also sometimes known as simply La Marina, dates back to the 14th century and was built in the Catalan Gothic style.
One of the things that make the basilica so special is its location. It lies right on the edge of the medieval city center, offering sweeping views of Barcelona’s port.
Visitors to the basilica can appreciate its stunning stained glass windows, enormous rose window, and vaulted ceilings adorned with beautiful carvings. The church is also considered one of Spain’s finest examples of pure Gothic architecture.
Temple of Augustus
Located in the heart of Barcelona, the Temple of Augustus is another popular landmark that attracts visitors from around the world. This ancient temple was built in honor of Emperor Augustus and dates back to the 1st century AD.
The temple features a unique architectural style that blends Roman and Iberian influences, giving it a distinctive look that is unlike any other building in the city. Visitors can explore the temple grounds and admire its intricate stone carvings, or take a tour of the surrounding archaeological site to see the preserved ruins that have been excavated here.
Whether you’re interested in ancient history or architecture, a visit to the Temple of Augustus is sure to be a memorable experience. Admission to the site is free, making it a great activity for budget-minded travelers.
Monasterio de Pedralbes
The Monasterio de Pedralbes is a former monastery that was founded by Queen Elisenda de Montcada in 1327. The monastery is home to a beautiful cloister, which is considered to be one of the finest examples of Catalan Gothic architecture in existence.
The monastery was converted into a museum in the early 20th century, and today it houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts. The museum is also home to many temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
The Monasterio de Pedralbes is located in the north of Barcelona, and it can be reached by taking the L3 metro line to Palau Reial. The entrance fee is €9.
Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Sagrat Cor)
The Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, or Sagrat Cor, is one of Barcelona‘s most recognizable landmarks. The white marble church, with its towering spire that seems to pierce the sky, is visible from many parts of the city.
Sagrat Cor is located on top of Tibidabo Mountain, which is the tallest mountain in the Collserola range that overlooks Barcelona. This makes it one of the highest landmarks in the city and offers visitors stunning views of Barcelona and the surrounding area.
You can reach Sagrat Cor either by car or by taking the historic Tramvia Blau tram line up the mountain. Once you’re at the church, you can explore the beautiful gardens and terraces, or just enjoy the peaceful setting as you take in the views of Barcelona and beyond.
Admission to Sagrat Cor is free, but visitors are encouraged to make donations if they wish to support its continued upkeep. Regardless of how much you donate, you’re sure to find the experience of visiting Sagrat Cor to be both serene and awe-inspiring.
Abbey of Montserrat
The Abbey of Montserrat, also known as Montserrat monastery, is one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona. The Benedictine abbey is located on the mountain of Montserrat, about an hour outside of Barcelona proper.
The monastery was founded in the 11th century, though the current buildings date to the 19th century. The abbey is home to the Black Madonna of Montserrat, a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary that is said to have healing powers.
The Black Madonna is one of the most revered religious icons in Catalonia, and the monastery draws visitors from all over the world who come to see the statue and pay their respects.
If you’re visiting the Abbey of Montserrat, be sure to stop by the basilica and check out the famous statue. There is no entrance fee to visit the abbey or monastery grounds. Montserrat is a great day trip from Barcelona.
Famous Landmarks of Barcelona – Museums and Galleries
Picasso Museum
Another must-visit landmark in Barcelona is the Picasso Museum, which was founded by the artist himself back in 1960. Located in the medieval Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, the museum is dedicated to showcasing Pablo Picasso’s work and his influence on modern art.
The museum currently houses over 3,500 works by Picasso, spanning the artist’s entire career. The collection includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, ceramics, and even some of his personal belongings.
Visitors can also take advantage of the museum’s various educational programs, which offer insight into Picasso’s work and life. The museum offers both guided and self-guided tours, making it the perfect destination for art lovers of all backgrounds and levels of experience.
Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya
Another famous landmark in Barcelona is the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, or simply MNAC for short. Located within the stunning Palau Nacional building overlooking Montjuïc, this museum houses artifacts and pieces of art from all over Catalonia. If you love art and history, then a visit to MNAC is a must.
From medieval Romanesque and Gothic works to modernist paintings and sculptures by famous Catalan artists, MNAC has something for everyone. Exhibits here change fairly regularly, so there’s always a new reason to return.
And with numerous interactive exhibits and educational programs designed to engage visitors of all ages, a trip to MNAC is the perfect way to learn more about Catalan art and culture.
Basic admission to MNAC is €12 for adults, with discounts available for students, seniors, and children. Admission is free for EU citizens under the age of 25.
There are also several different ticket options that include access to the temporary exhibitions, a guided tour, or an audio guide.
Barcelona Aquarium
Barcelona Aquarium is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and it’s easy to see why. Located in the Port Vell area of Barcelona, this large aquarium is home to over 11,000 different species of fish and other marine animals.
The aquarium has over 35 different tanks and pools, each filled with a wide variety of marine life. Here you can see everything from sharks and sea turtles to exotic fish and coral reefs, all in stunningly clear water.
Along with the dozens of different tanks filled with aquatic life, Barcelona Aquarium also has a number of educational exhibits and activities. These include live animal demonstrations, interactive touch pools, and even sleepovers where you can spend the night with the animals!
Whether you’re coming for a once-in-a-lifetime experience or you’re a lifelong fish enthusiast, Barcelona Aquarium is sure to be a highlight of your trip. Grab a fast track ticket to visit this popular Barcelona attraction.
Museum of Catalonia History
The Museum of Catalonia History is one of Barcelona’s most popular museums, and it’s also one of the city’s most famous landmarks. The museum is located in the Palau de Mar, a stunning 19th-century building that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.
The Museum of Catalonia History tells the story of Catalan culture and history, and it features an extensive collection of artifacts, artwork, and documents. The museum is divided into four main sections, and each section focuses on a different aspect of Catalan culture.
Famous Landmarks of Barcelona – Gardens and Parks
Park Güell
Park Güell is another one of Antoni Gaudí’s landmarks in Barcelona that should not be missed. This public park was originally commissioned by Eusebi Güell, a wealthy Catalan industrialist, as a private garden city for the upper-class families of Barcelona.
However, after only two families had bought plots in the would-be city, construction came to a halt.
The property was then turned into a public park, and today it is one of the city’s most beloved landmarks, drawing in tourists from all over the world. This public park is located on Carmel Hill and offers stunning views of the city below.
As with La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell showcases Gaudí’s distinctive architectural style. The most famous feature of the park is the Gingerbread House, a whimsical building that resembles an oversize house covered in colorful ceramic tiles.
Other landmarks in the park include the Grand Staircase, with its sweeping flights of stairs, and the Dragon Fountain, which depicts three enormous green dragons spouting water out of their mouths.
Park Güell is free for visitors, though you need to ticket to visit the main attractions – Gingerbread House and the Monumental Zone, which includes the Grand Staircase and Dragon Fountain.
Montjuïc Hill and Castle
Perched atop Montjuïc hill, this 17th-century fortress has a long and varied history. The castle was originally built as a defense for the city in 1640, and it has served many purposes over the years, including as a military prison.
Though it is no longer used for military purposes, Montjuïc Castle still draws in visitors from around the world with its commanding views of Barcelona and its fascinating history.
Today, tourists can explore this fascinating landmark either on their own or as part of a guided tour. Tour guides will walk you through the castle’s various exhibits, including its collection of paintings, sculptures, and antique weaponry.
Montjuïc hill provides a nice vista point and you can get up and down easily with the cable car which provides great view of the city and port.
To visit the castle, you can purchase tickets at the entrance for or you can use the Barcelona Card, which grants you free entry to many landmarks in Barcelona, including Montjuïc Castle. There are also guided tours which includes the cable car ride.
Ciutadella Park
In the center of Barcelona’s Ciutat Vella (Old City) lies one of its most beloved landmarks, Ciutadella Park. This 70-acre public park was once the site of a military fortress, which was demolished in the 19th century to make way for the sprawling green space we know today.
Boasting a large lake, an abundance of blooming flowers, and beautiful fountains, Ciutadella Park is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing afternoon or get some fresh air. It is also home to several landmarks within its boundaries, including the Catalan Parliament building and Barcelona Zoo.
Whether you are interested in exploring historic landmarks, getting some exercise, or simply taking in the beauty of nature, Ciutadella Park is sure to delight you. And best of all, it is free to visit and open year-round, making it a great option for travelers of all budgets.
Parc del Laberint d’Horta (Horta Labyrinth Par)
This is one of the oldest gardens in Barcelona and is a beautiful spot to stroll through while enjoying some peace and quiet. The garden was created in 1791 by Juan Desvalls and features a neoclassical design with symmetrical gardens, ponds, fountains, and sculptures.
The highlight of the park is definitely the labyrinth, a maze of hedges that has been called the “most fascinating” in Europe. It is said to have been created after Daedalus and Icarus from Greek mythology, as an homage to their famous escape from Crete using wings made of wax.
Visiting Parc del Laberint d’Horta is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of Barcelona, and spend some time outdoors surrounded by nature.
Famous Landmarks of Barcelona – Districts and Streets
El Raval
El Raval is one of the most historic and well-known landmarks in Barcelona. This neighborhood was once the site of a medieval walled city and has since become a vibrant cultural hub, home to art galleries, theaters, museums, and some of the city’s most popular restaurants.
With its bustling street life and fascinating history, El Raval is a must-visit for any traveler to Barcelona. With landmarks like the Palau Güell and MACBA art museum, there’s plenty to see and do in this vibrant neighborhood.
El Raval is also home to some of Barcelona’s best nightlife, with clubs and bars that stay open until the early hours of the morning. If you’re looking to experience the true energy and excitement of Barcelona, El Raval is the place to be.
Las Ramblas
No visit to Barcelona would be complete without taking a stroll down Las Ramblas, the city’s most famous street. This tree-lined boulevard runs for over a kilometer from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus Monument.
Along the way, you’ll find an abundance of street performers, cafes, and shops selling everything from souvenirs to fresh flowers. Be sure to stop by the famous La Boqueria food market for a bite to eat and some people watching.
At the end of Las Ramblas is the Christopher Columbus Monument, which commemorates the explorer’s journey to the Americas. From here, you can get a great view of the harbor and see the ships that still come into Barcelona today.
Plaça de Catalunya
The Plaça de Catalunya, located in the heart of Barcelona, is one of the city’s most popular gathering spots. It’s a large square that serves as a hub for locals and tourists alike, with its many shops, restaurants, and cafes.
The square is also home to some of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks, such as the old town hall building and the Fira de Barcelona exhibition center.
At its center is a beautiful fountain surrounded by spectacular wrought-iron lampposts, which makes for a picturesque scene no matter what time of day you visit. Whether you’re looking to grab a bite to eat, do some people-watching, or simply take in the sights and sounds of Barcelona, the Plaça de Catalunya is the perfect place to start.
Passeig de Gràcia
One of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks is also one of its most iconic streets: the Passeig de Gràcia. Located in the heart of the city, this picturesque tree-lined boulevard is known for its stunning architecture and elegant buildings.
The Passeig de Gràcia is lined with iconic landmarks such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, both of which are great examples of the architect’s signature style. Other landmarks along this famous street include Casa Ametller, Casa Lleó Morera, Casa de Les Punxes, and many more.
Whether you want to simply stroll along the Passeig de Gràcia and take in the sights, or you want to go on a self-guided architecture tour, this famous street is sure to inspire and delight.
Natural Landmark in Barcelona
Tibidabo
For a truly unique experience, head to Tibidabo – one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks. This mountain is home to an amusement park, a church, and some of the best views in the city.
The amusement park, which dates back to 1905, is the oldest in Spain and one of the oldest in Europe. It’s filled with vintage rides like a wooden roller coaster and a Ferris wheel, as well as more modern attractions.
The real star of Tibidabo, however, is the views. From the top of the mountain, you can see all of Barcelona stretched out below you. On a clear day, you can even see the Mediterranean Sea in the distance.
To get to Tibidabo, you can take the Tramvia Blau from Avda. del Tibidabo. The tram ride up the mountain is an experience in itself.
Being next to the natural ocean, a boat trip and cruise is also a popular activity in Barcelona.
Other Landmarks in Barcelona
Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau
The Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau is a stunning collection of Art Nouveau buildings that served as a former hospital complex. The site was designed by Lluís Domènech I Montaner and was built between 1902 and 1930.
The hospital complex was one of the first in Europe to use natural light extensively, and its unique architectural style is the perfect representation of Barcelona’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
The Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau is one of the city’s must-visit landmarks, especially for those who are interested in architecture or history. Visitors can explore the site on their own, or join a guided tour.
Tours are available in a variety of languages and run every half hour. Tickets start at €12 for adults, and €6 for students and seniors.
From exploring the gorgeous buildings of the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau to reveling in jaw-dropping views from
Palau de la Música Catalana
Another must-see landmark in Barcelona is the Palau de la Música Catalana. This stunning building, with its curved walls and delicate arches, was constructed following an intricate Catalan Modernist design by famous architect Lluis Domenech I Montaner.
Located in the heart of the city, the Palau de la Música Catalana is one of the most beautiful concert halls in the world and a true masterpiece of Modernist architecture. With its ornate design and dramatic curved walls, it truly embraces the spirit of Catalan culture and is a must-visit for any traveler looking to experience all that Barcelona has to offer.
Whether you want to visit the concert hall and explore its intricate design up close or simply enjoy the view from the outside, a visit to the Palau de la Música Catalana is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
You can get guided tours in various languages, or audio guides to explore yourself. Concert tickets are also available for purchase, so you can enjoy a truly unique experience.
Mercado de La Boqueria
Located in the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic district, the Mercado de La Boqueria is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. A bustling food market that attracts both locals and tourists alike, this vibrant space is known for its colorful displays of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, meats, and much more.
Dating back to the 13th century, the market originally started as an open-air space where farmers would come to sell their wares. In 1826, it moved indoors to its current location and has been a staple of Barcelona ever since. Many Barcelona food tours will visit this iconic destination.
Whether you’re looking to do some shopping for fresh ingredients or just want to browse and take in the sights and smells of this vibrant space, a visit to the Mercado de La Boqueria is a must. The market is open Monday through Saturday from 8 am until 8 pm.
For experiential travelers and foodies who likes to cook, you can even do a Boqueria market tour with a cooking class.
Camp Nou
Located just a short distance from the center of Barcelona, Camp Nou is one of the city’s most popular landmarks. The stadium, home to the renowned football team FC Barcelona, draws visitors from around the world for its impressive architecture and unbeatable atmosphere.
Constructed in 1957, Camp Nou was originally designed to seat just over 90,000 spectators. However, following a series of expansions and renovations, the stadium now has a capacity of over 99,000. This makes it the largest football stadium in Europe.
In addition to its size, Camp Nou is famous for its modern and innovative design. The stadium features a sleek glass facade, which is perfectly complemented by the surrounding natural landscape. Inside, you’ll find a wide range of amenities, including restaurants, bars, retail shops, and even an on-site museum dedicated to FC Barcelona’s history.
Visiting Camp Nou is truly a must for any football fan. Tickets for a match start at just €25, and behind-the-scene stadium tours are available year-round.
Commemorative Monuments in Barcelona
Arc de Triomf
The Arc de Triomf is one of Barcelona’s most famous monuments, and it’s also one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. The Triumphal Arch was built in 1888 to serve as the main entrance to the Barcelona World Fair.
Today, it stands as a monument to that event, and it’s also a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. The Arc de Triomf is located in the beautiful Ciutadella Park, and it’s surrounded by fountains, gardens, and sculptures.
The arch itself is quite imposing, and it’s decorated with stone carvings that depict scenes from Catalan history. The Arc de Triomf is free to visit, and it’s the perfect place to take a break from exploring the city.
Columbus Monument
Located in the bustling city center of Barcelona, the Columbus Monument is another one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built to commemorate Christopher Columbus and his voyage to America, this 139-foot tall column was constructed in 1888 by a Catalan civil engineer named Gaietà Buïgas I Monravà.
Featuring a traditional Neoclassical style, the column is topped with a statue of Columbus pointing out towards the ocean. And from there, visitors can take in sweeping views of the city and its famous landmarks.
Whether you want to admire the bustling street life below, or simply enjoy a moment of peaceful reflection under the soaring column, a visit to the Columbus Monument is a must-do when traveling to Barcelona.
The Catalan city is not just filled with landmarks but also offers tons of activities and experiences for travelers.
Famous Buildings in Barcelona
Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
This famous building was designed by Antoni Gaudí and is one of Barcelona’s most unique landmarks. Nicknamed “La Pedrera,” or the “stone quarry,” it was constructed between 1906 and 1912.
Casa Milà features a distinctive wavy facade made up of limestone blocks and draws from a variety of architectural styles including Catalan modernism, Art Nouveau, and Cubism. One of the most notable features of the building is the roof, which is adorned with waving chimneys that resemble the sails of a ship.
The building now houses a museum dedicated to Gaudí’s life and work, as well as a rooftop terrace with stunning views of Barcelona. Guided tours are available, but visitors can also explore the museum at their own pace and enjoy the exhibitions on their own.
Agbar Tower (Torre Glòries)
Agbar Tower, or Torre Glòries as it’s known in Catalan, is one of Barcelona’s newest landmarks. The striking structure is actually an office building that was completed in 2005.
The curvaceous tower stands 150 meters (492 feet) tall and is covered in more than 4,500 glass panels. From the outside, it has a spiral shape that rises and twists as it reaches towards the sky.
Inside, there’s an open-air observation deck where you can get incredible views of Barcelona, spanning over three floors with 360-degree panoramic views.
Whether you want to learn more about the city’s landmarks, or just want a great place to take in the views of Barcelona, the Agbar Tower is a must-visit.
Casa Batlló
This unique building on Barcelona’s Passeig de Gràcia was designed by Antoni Gaudí and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The facade is decorated with colorful mosaics, undulating stone waves, and strange organic shapes that resemble sea creatures.
The roof is equally as impressive, with its multi-colored ceramic tiles and beautiful chimney stacks with snarling dragon designs.
While the outside of Casa Batlló is definitely worth checking out, the real treat is taking a tour of the building’s interior. Here you can see how Gaudí took inspiration from nature and the sea when designing this fascinating home.
And be sure to step out onto the balcony for stunning views of Passeig de Gràcia below.
Fundació Joan Miró
This world-renowned museum is dedicated to the life and work of Joan Miró, one of Catalonia’s most famous artists. The museum is located in the Plaça de Espanya area of Barcelona and was designed by Miró himself.
The building is made up of two different structures: a rectangular base that houses the exhibition space, and a circular tower that contains an auditorium and library.
The museum’s permanent collection features over 14,000 works by Miró, spanning his entire career from 1920 to 1981. Visitors can also see temporary exhibitions of work by other artists, as well as Miró’s own personal art collection.
If you’re interested in art, or just want to learn more about Barcelona’s history and culture, the Fundació Joan Miró is a must-visit.
Casa Vicens
Casa Vicens is yet another example of Antoni Gaudí’s genius, showing off his talents as an architect. This stunning building was constructed between 1883 and 1888 and is one of the first buildings that Gaudí designed as an independent artist.
The facade features a mix of Arabic, Islamic, and Moorish influences, while the interior is bright and colorful with plenty of tile work.
Today, you can visit Casa Vicens as a museum, and explore every corner of this historic building. Located in Barcelona’s Gracia neighborhood, Casa Vicens is a must-see for anyone interested in Gaudí or Catalan history and architecture.
W Barcelona
Another must-see landmark in Barcelona is the W Hotel, located right on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. This modern hotel is known for its iconic design and spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea, making it a favorite with travelers who want to enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Opened in 2009, this luxury hotel boasts some of the city’s most spectacular views and features sleek modern architecture that perfectly complements its coastal surroundings.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay, or just want to take in the city’s stunning coastline and dramatic architecture, the W Barcelona is sure to impress. From its glowing blue facade, which lights up at night like a beacon, to its sophisticated interior design, this hotel is a true work of art.
Discovering Spanish Monuments and Landmarks in Barcelona
These are just some of the famous landmarks in Barcelona. With its breathtaking landmarks and stunning natural beauty, this is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Whether you are visiting Barcelona landmarks like La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell or exploring the city’s rich history at places like Montjuïc Castle, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this vibrant and beautiful city.
