Barcelona on a Budget: 5 Days of Gaudi and Fun

Experience the vibrant sights and flavors of Barcelona without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Barcelona on a limited budget is still possible with a bit of planning and sticking to a budget. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or Airbnb, and take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system to save money on getting around. Visit free attractions like Park Guell or stroll through the Gothic Quarter to experience the city's architecture and history.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Gaudi and the Gothic Quarter

  • Check in at Hotel Curious, a budget-friendly hotel with a central location
  • Begin the day with a stroll through the Gothic Quarter, admiring the medieval architecture
  • Marvel at the whimsical Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, designed by Gaudi
  • Visit the stunning Sagrada Familia, a masterpiece still under construction after 138 years
  • Enjoy some tapas and sangria at El Xampanyet, a popular local spot in the Gothic Quarter
Day 2

Beach Day and Park Güell

  • Take a short metro ride to Barceloneta Beach and spend the morning soaking up some sun
  • Cool off with a dip in the Mediterranean Sea before lunch at one of the beachside restaurants
  • Head to Park Güell for an afternoon of exploring the colorful mosaics and stunning views of the city
  • Catch the sunset over Barcelona from the top of the park before heading back to the hotel
  • Try some traditional Catalan cuisine at Can Culleretes, the oldest restaurant in Barcelona
Day 3

Art and Architecture

  • Start the day at the Picasso Museum, home to many of the artist's early works
  • Admire the stunning Palau de la Música Catalana, a concert hall with an intricate mosaic façade
  • Visit the stunning Joan Miró Foundation, which showcases the works of the famous Catalan artist
  • Stroll through the gardens of the Monastery of Pedralbes, one of Barcelona's hidden gems
  • Have dinner at La Flauta, a cozy restaurant serving up tasty Mediterranean dishes
Day 4

Montjuïc and the Magic Fountain

  • Take a cable car ride up to Montjuïc Castle for breathtaking views of the city
  • Explore the Montjuïc Castle and the nearby Museum of National Art of Catalonia
  • Visit the Olympic Stadium, built for the 1992 games, and enjoy a picnic in the surrounding gardens
  • Catch the sunset at the famous Magic Fountain while enjoying a spectacular water and light show
  • Treat yourself to some delicious churros at the nearby Xurreria Trebol
Day 5

Markets and Nightlife

  • Start the day at the lively La Boqueria Market, filled with colorful produce, meats, and seafood
  • Explore the trendy El Raval neighborhood, home to many boutique shops and street art
  • Enjoy a late lunch at Quimet & Quimet, known for their mouthwatering montaditos
  • Visit the Gothic-style Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar, a stunning church with a rich history
  • Experience Barcelona's vibrant nightlife at a local club or bar such as Razzmatazz or Opium.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Barcelona by plane is to fly into Barcelona-El Prat Airport, the main international airport in the city, served by many major airlines from all around the world.

Car

The best way to get to Barcelona by car is to drive on the AP-7 toll motorway that runs all along the eastern coast of Spain, passing through cities like Valencia and Alicante before finally reaching Barcelona.

Train

The best way to get to Barcelona by train is to take a Renfe Train from Madrid to Barcelona. The journey takes around two and a half hours and the train station in Barcelona is called Sants Station.

Boat

The best way to get to Barcelona by boat is to take a ferry that runs from several cities along the Mediterranean coast, such as Rome or Palma de Mallorca, to Barcelona Port. There are several companies that provide this service including Grimaldi Lines and Balearia.

Bus

The best way to get to Barcelona by bus is to take a Eurolines coach that runs from major European cities to Estació del Nord Bus Station in Barcelona.

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A trip to Barcelona on a limited budget is still possible with a bit of planning and sticking to a budget. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or Airbnb, and take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system to save money on getting around. Visit free attractions like Park Guell or stroll through the Gothic Quarter to experience the city's architecture and history.

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