Top 4 Itineraries in Barcelona

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Barcelona.

If you only have a few days, Barcelona weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Barcelona offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Barcelona are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Barcelona offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover Spain's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

For sun seekers, beach vacations in Barcelona offer the perfect escape. Whether 5, 7 or 10 days, spend them unwinding on sandy shores, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the coastal beauty.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Barcelona truly unforgettable!

If you’re as convinced as we are that Barcelona belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Barcelona are just a quick search away.

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Discover the perfect Barcelona itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Barcelona for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 4 itineraries will help you experience the best of Barcelona without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Barcelona!

A scenic 10-day road trip through Madrid, Bilbao, València, Barcelona, and Burgos is one of the best ways to experience Spain. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 10-day itinerary means that Barcelona can easily be combined with other top destinations in Spain without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Madrid, Bilbao, València, Barcelona, and Burgos by public transport, renting a car in Spain opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 10 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Bilbao

• Arrival city: Bilbao
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Bilbao, e.g., Hotel Gran Bilbao
• Sightseeing: Parque Doña Casilda Iturrizar

Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Bilbao. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Bilbao

• Destinations: Bilbao
• Driving distance: 22.61 km, approx. 48 minutes
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Bilbao, e.g., Hotel Gran Bilbao
• Sightseeing: Europa parkea, Zubizuri, Funicular de Artxanda, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, and Puppy
• Recommended tour: Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Bilbao

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Europa parkea, Zubizuri, Funicular de Artxanda, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, and Puppy. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Bilbao, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest.

Day 3: Discover Burgos

• Destinations: Burgos
• Driving distance: 409.57 km, approx. 4 hours and 26 minutes
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Madrid, e.g., Hotel Riu Plaza España
• Sightseeing: Burgos Cathedral, Saint John's Monastery, and St. Mary's Bridge
• Recommended tour: Day Trip from Madrid to Segovia and Avila in Spain

Spend the day exploring Burgos Cathedral, Saint John's Monastery, and St. Mary's Bridge. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace. End the day by checking into a new hotel, conveniently located in central Madrid.

Day 4: Experience Madrid

• Destinations: Madrid
• Driving distance: 370.25 km, approx. 4 hours and 22 minutes
• Accommodation: hotel in Valencia, e.g., Ramirez Flats & Bar
• Sightseeing: Museo Nacional del Prado, El Retiro Park, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, and Plaza Mayor
• Recommended tour: Valencia Private Walking Tour with Official Valencian Guide

Continue your journey through Madrid, where you can explore Museo Nacional del Prado, El Retiro Park, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, and Plaza Mayor. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot. Wrap up the day by checking in at a hotel in the heart of Valencia.

Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in València

• Destinations: València
• Driving distance: 359.91 km, approx. 4 hours and 17 minutes
• Accommodation: hotel in Barcelona, e.g., Ramirez Flats & Bar
• Sightseeing: Mercat Central de València, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, and Serranos Towers
• Recommended tour: Park Guell Guided Tour with Skip the Line Ticket

Drive through València, stopping to visit Mercat Central de València, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, and Serranos Towers. Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way. Conclude your day by settling into a centrally located hotel in Barcelona.

Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Barcelona

• Destinations: Barcelona
• Driving distance: 19.56 km, approx. 1 hour and 12 minutes
• Accommodation: hotel in Barcelona, e.g., Ramirez Flats & Bar
• Sightseeing: La Pedrera - Casa Milà, Mercat de la Boqueria, Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Montjuïc Castle, and Casa Batlló
• Recommended tour: Complete Gaudi Tour: Casa Batllo, Park Guell & Sagrada Familia

Spend time discovering La Pedrera - Casa Milà, Mercat de la Boqueria, Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Montjuïc Castle, and Casa Batlló, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture.

Day 7: Spend Time in Barcelona

• Destinations: Barcelona
• Driving distance: 16.44 km, approx. 1 hour and 13 minutes
• Accommodation: hotel in Barcelona, e.g., Ramirez Flats & Bar
• Sightseeing: Ciutadella Park, Plaça de Catalunya, Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, Palau de la Música Catalana, and Aquàrium Barcelona
• Recommended tour: Barcelona Tapas, Taverns, and Gothic Quarter History Walking Tour

Explore Ciutadella Park, Plaça de Catalunya, Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, Palau de la Música Catalana, and Aquàrium Barcelona at a relaxed pace. Make spontaneous stops for sightseeing, photography, or lunch at a family-run restaurant.

Day 8: Explore Barcelona

• Destinations: Barcelona
• Driving distance: 314.84 km, approx. 3 hours and 40 minutes
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Zaragoza, e.g., Hotel Diagonal Plaza
• Sightseeing: Cathedral of Barcelona, Arc de Triomf, Park Güell, and CosmoCaixa Museum of Science
• Recommended tour: Private custom tour with a local guide Zaragoza

Continue your road trip through Barcelona, enjoying the flexibility to explore Cathedral of Barcelona, Arc de Triomf, Park Güell, and CosmoCaixa Museum of Science and nearby points of interest. As the day winds down, arrive at a new hotel in central Zaragoza.

Day 9: Wander Through Zaragoza and Portugalete

• Destinations: Zaragoza and Portugalete
• Driving distance: 338.01 km, approx. 3 hours and 57 minutes
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Bilbao, e.g., Hotel Gran Bilbao
• Sightseeing: Stone Bridge Zaragoza, Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta, Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, and Vizcaya Bridge
• Recommended tour: Gaztelugatxe, Mundaka and Gernika Tour from Bilbao

Visit Stone Bridge Zaragoza, Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta, Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, and Vizcaya Bridge as you navigate scenic routes. Take time to enjoy local markets, trails, or viewpoints that catch your eye. At the end of the day, check-in at a comfortable hotel in central Bilbao.

Day 10: Bid Farewell to Bilbao

• Departure city: Bilbao
• Driving distance: 0.0 metres, approx. 0 seconds
• Sightseeing: Federico Moyúa enparantza

Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Bilbao. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along this route is around 894 EUR, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Barcelona.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Barcelona for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

Enjoy a 3-day city break in Barcelona with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 3-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Barcelona without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Barcelona

Arrive in Barcelona and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like La Pedrera - Casa Milà.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. 2254 Barcelona Restaurant is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!

Day 2: Discover Barcelona's Most Iconic Attractions

Enjoy your first full day in Barcelona by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Mercat de la Boqueria, Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló.

One of the best ways to quickly learn how to navigate the city is to join one of the many great city sightseeing tours in Barcelona. Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Barcelona in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 3: Savor Your Final Moments in Barcelona

Spend your last few hours in Barcelona soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.

We recommend booking your transfers from Barcelona in advance.

For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Barcelona, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Barcelona travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.

A 5-day beach vacation in Barcelona offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Barcelona:

• Beaches: Spend your days at Playa de Bogatell, Platja de la Mar Bella, and Playa Barcelona.
• Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Ramirez Flats & Bar for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
• Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at 2254 Barcelona Restaurant, Porteño Bar, and Restaurant Maui Beach Club, and other nearby dining spots.
• Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like Rock Island Bar, Liverpool Pub, and Speakeasy “The Pharmacy”, and more.
• Cultural experiences: Explore Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Plaça de Catalunya, Mercat de la Boqueria, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera - Casa Milà, Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, and Arc de Triomf, local markets, and souvenir shops.

With a well-planned 5-day beach vacation itinerary in Barcelona, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Barcelona

Arrive in Barcelona, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 5 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Playa de Bogatell or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Barcelona.

Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach

Enjoy a day under the sun at Platja de la Mar Bella, a top beach in Barcelona. In the afternoon, make sure to visit Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, and Park Güell for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.

Day 3: Embark on a Sailing Adventure

Start your day with one of the best sailing adventures in Barcelona, where you'll explore hidden coves and beautiful bays. After a day on the water, take a peaceful sunset stroll along the beach, or enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

Day 4: Ride the Waves with Thrilling Water Sports

Enjoy a fun-filled day of water sports at Playa Barceloneta. Alternatively, try out popular activities in Barcelona to add some adventure to your day. End the evening with a meal at a local restaurant and soak up the unique atmosphere.

Day 5: Say Farewell to Barcelona

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Barcelona. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye. Then, choose from many convenient transfers in Barcelona to make your departure easier.

For more beach vacation ideas, explore all beach vacations in Barcelona. Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Barcelona's coastline.

A 3-day weekend getaway in Barcelona offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life. But with so many things to see and do in Barcelona, fitting it all into a short visit can easily feel overwhelming.

However, with a well-planned Barcelona itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 3 days to spend, this is the perfect Barcelona weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Barcelona

Arrive in Barcelona around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.

• Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
• Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, for example, visiting La Pedrera - Casa Milà, and soak in the surroundings.
• Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.
• Tip: Book an airport transfer to Barcelona in advance for a smooth journey. End the day with an evening stroll for an enchanting first glimpse of Barcelona by night.

Day 2 - Discover Barcelona’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Barcelona with sightseeing, food, and drinks.

• Morning: Visit Mercat de la Boqueria early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
• Afternoon: Continue to Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, stopping by Basílica de la Sagrada Família for a break and some photos.
• Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.
• Tip: Use part of the morning to join one of the many city sightseeing tours in Barcelona and get a guided journey through the top attractions in the city.

Day 3 - Depart from Barcelona

Make the most of your last few hours in Barcelona before your departure.

• Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
• Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.
• Tip: Schedule an airport transfer from Barcelona in advance to enjoy a stress-free end to your trip in Barcelona.

For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Barcelona. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Barcelona itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

As you explore Barcelona, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered. For those curious about the city’s highlights, our guide to the best things to do in Barcelona offers plenty of inspiration.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Barcelona for you.

If you're unsure of when to visit, don't forget to check out our insights on the best time to visit Barcelona. We'll share everything we know about weather, crowd levels, and price fluctuations throughout the year.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Barcelona in a way that feels truly unforgettable!