24 Hours in Barcelona – A Perfect Day in the City
Airport to city
If you’ve got 24 hours like I did, getting from the airport to the city is quick and easy. Taxi, Uber, or Bolt all work well – around €25 and just 20 minutes to Barri Gòtic or El Born. Perfect for diving straight into Barcelona’s charm!
Hotel
I stayed at **chic&basic** in El Born – stylish, comfortable, and super convenient (90€ for a single room, no breakfast). They’ve thought of everything, from a water/coffee bar (dont trink the tap water here!) to essentials like toothbrushes in case you forgot something. You can even rent bikes, though you’ll hardly need them – everything, including the sea, is within walking distance. The vibrant El Born neighborhood is the perfect base to explore!
Late lunch
As an Austrian, adjusting to Spain’s late lunch culture is a pleasant change – locals typically eat around 2:00 PM, and most restaurants stay open for lunch until 4:00 PM. This schedule is perfect for a compact itinerary, giving you plenty of time to explore before settling down for a leisurely meal. It's a great way to embrace the relaxed Spanish lifestyle! (See restaurant recommendations below)
Afternoon activity
El Born area is rich in history, with landmarks like the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar and the stunning architecture of medieval Barcelona. Small cafés and tapas bars invite you to take a break and soak in the vibrant energy. Whether you stumble upon a quaint plaza or follow the aroma of fresh pastries, El Born feels like a mix of old-world charm and modern creativity.
Coffee
For coffee lovers, Barcelona’s 3rd wave coffee scene is a dream. Spots like **Nomad Coffee** and other specialty cafés serve up incredible brews that will wake you up and keep you fueled for the day. Perfect for starting your adventure or taking a quick break while exploring the city!
Cocktails
For cocktails, **Stravinski** is a must-visit. Known for its experimental approach, every ingredient is homemade. The drinks are a perfect balance of umami and fruity flavors – I tried the "Nikkai" cocktail with goat cheese, and it was unforgettable.
Afterward, I headed to **Bar Mariposa**, where the creative cocktails are served in hand-crafted ceramic bowls with colorful, artistic garnishes. They also offer small snacks, perfect for a light bite – I had skewers with artichokes and tuna, which paired perfectly with the drinks. Both spots are a treat for cocktail enthusiasts!
Special dinner
Breakfast for the next day
Gaudi
Barcelona is like an open-air museum of Antoni Gaudí's genius. His works range from the iconic **Sagrada Família**, an awe-inspiring basilica still under construction, to the colorful **Park Güell**, full of mosaics and whimsical designs. The **Casa Batlló** and **La Pedrera (Casa Milà)** showcase his innovative approach to architecture, blending nature-inspired forms with functional design. Dont forget to buy entrance tickets ahead!
Still have time?
Do some crafts!
VIsit the nightmare museum
Conclusio - love it!
Barcelona is a dream for explorers and food lovers – like Berlin with more sunshine. A city full of artists, vibrant culture, and fantastic food, it invites you to wander, savor, and discover at every corner.
The home for unique & authentic travel
