{"id":33162,"date":"2024-07-30T13:46:01","date_gmt":"2024-07-30T13:46:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/?p=33162"},"modified":"2025-12-28T19:21:40","modified_gmt":"2025-12-28T19:21:40","slug":"how-to-spend-48-hours-in-barcelona-according-to-4-locals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/how-to-spend-48-hours-in-barcelona-according-to-4-locals\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Spend 48 Hours in Barcelona According to 4 Locals"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and stunning architecture. With its beaches, landmarks, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder Barcelona attracts millions of visitors every year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But with so much to see, sometimes it can be overwhelming knowing what to prioritize. If you find yourself with just 48 hours to explore this enchanting city, fear not! This helpful itinerary will help you make the most of your limited time. I\u2019ll highlight the must-visit attractions, top experiences, tours, and restaurants you have to see while you\u2019re here. I\u2019ve also tapped a few other locals to share tips on what to do. Each recommendation comes from an on-the-ground guide (including yours truly) with ExperienceFirst tours in Barcelona<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know this city like a pro, and we\u2019re excited to share it with you. Have only two days in Barcelona? This is what you should see and do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day 1: Thursday in Barcelona<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You might start your 48 hours on any day of the week. For this itinerary, we\u2019ll begin on Thursday, but feel free to move things around as fits your schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Breakfast Mediterranean-style<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Breakfast<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

First off, start your morning late in true Mediterranean fashion with a light breakfast of croissant and coffee. I recommend the renowned Brunell\u2019s<\/a> on Carrer de Princesa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since 1852, they\u2019ve been serving the people of Barcelona with fresh pastries daily, and their award-winning croissants come in a range of seasonal flavors to match the freshest produce. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Follow in Picasso\u2019s footsteps<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Picasso
Photo by Cristina Carrisi<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Well-caffeinated and figuring out how many pistachio croissants you can stuff in your suitcase without TSA getting suspicious, you make your way over to Porta del \u00c0ngel to rendezvous with your guide for our Picasso in Barcelona Walking Tour<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This tour recommendation comes from Carlos Carrillo, who\u2019s been living in Barcelona for 10 years and a tour guide for most of that time. It\u2019s one of his favorite experiences to share with travelers. Here\u2019s why.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThere are few tours I\u2019ve run that give such a cohesive insight into an artist. You learn about the stories and traumas that inspired his stylistic fluidity. Then when you get inside the museum, you really get an extra layer of understanding.\u201d<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Get to know this groundbreaking artist from the perspective of the sites he haunted during his time living here in the Catalan capital. For an hour, your guide will lead you through the Gothic and Born quarters before dropping you off at the Picasso Museum where you get to explore one of the best collections of his works in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\t

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\n\t\t\t\"Picasso\n\t\t\t\"Picasso\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tA journey through Picasso\u2019s world in Barcelona<\/span>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Picasso in Barcelona Walking Tour<\/p>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n

Lunch and cava<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

By the time you\u2019re out, it\u2019s early afternoon. A barrage of smells wafting from lunchtime eateries invade your nostrils, and you wonder where best to grab a bite. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Callum Sellins, who moved here in 2019 and has been guiding with us for a year now, recommends lunch at the family-run El Xampanyet<\/a>. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI think there\u2019s not been a single time I\u2019ve had someone visiting and not brought them here \u2014 it\u2019s amazing. They\u2019re known for the best anchovies in town. Just make sure you\u2019re washing down your meal with their in-house cava. My God is it good!\u201d<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In spite of its central touristy location, El Xampanyet stays true to tradition with its tiled interiors and selection of tapas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The afternoon is by far the best time to check it out, as the evening is jam-packed with folks jostling for space, and with it located right across from the Picasso Museum entrance, you\u2019ve not far to go at all. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

An afternoon of architecture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Gaudi<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Afterward, it\u2019s time to explore some of Barcelona\u2019s famous architecture. A guide can help you make the most of your time by hitting all the best spots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the metro over to the Sant Pau Recinte Modernista. This former hospital is stunning even from the outside. You’ll want to take lots of photos, trust me. It\u2019s also the meeting point for our Barcelona Architecture Walking Tour<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tModernist gems and Gaudi\u2019s masterpiece, La Sagrada Fam\u00edlia<\/span>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Best of Gaud\u00ed: Barcelona Architecture Walking Tour<\/p>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n

With your guide, you\u2019ll discover the secrets hidden in the fa\u00e7ades of the monumental Sagrada Fam\u00edlia<\/a> and stroll down the Passeig de Gr\u00e0cia<\/a>, known for its collection of stunning modernist buildings. The tour itself is one of the most comprehensive on the market and gets your dose of Gaud\u00ed, as well as his cohorts and rivals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Barcelona\u2019s Instagram-ready modernist marvels<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

It wraps up within two hours so you still have the evening to wind down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A soir\u00e9e at the Pla\u00e7a Reial<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Plac\u0327a
Photo by Cristina Carrisi<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

By now, you\u2019re starting to think about dinner and a fresh glass of cava (again). It\u2019s a good time to relax while also getting to experience some of the city. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not to worry, just a leisurely 20-minute stroll down the famous Las Ramblas is the Pla\u00e7a Reial. Here you can kick back at any of the legendary terraces to people-watch while you nibble. Glaciar<\/a>, Bar Tomate<\/a>, or Oca\u00f1a<\/a> come to mind as fantastic options for both food and drinks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

From within the square itself, you have a host of options on how to continue your night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For those of you looking to socialize, Sidecar<\/a> and Jamboree<\/a> in the square are two popular bars that offer a little dancing and mingling for travelers and locals alike. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Or maybe you\u2019re ready to hit your hotel. You\u2019re also close to two major metro lines, buses, and taxi rinks that can bring you towards your bed so you can be fresh for the day ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day 2: Friday<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This is your last day in the city before you head home or to your next destination. Let\u2019s make it count! Here\u2019s what we recommend for your final 24 hours in Barcelona.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A breakfast of Catalan champions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"A<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Wakey-wakey, rise and shine! It\u2019s another glorious day in Barcelona.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ve got to check out the Barcelona markets while you\u2019re here, so you head to La Boqueria market for breakfast to beat the crowds. Pick up a bite to eat, maybe the typical Barcelona on-the-go breakfast, an entrepan with Iberian ham and brie, or for a sweet tooth, a chocolate neapolitan or pistachio eclair. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is also a good spot to pick up a culinary souvenir with institutions like Olives Francesc<\/a>, who with his wife run one of the most important suppliers of olives in the Old Town. Their vacuum packed options and array of locally produced oils make the perfect gift and travel well even across a long haul. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Barcelona Wax Museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"picture<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Now it\u2019s time to hang with the legends of Barcelona throughout history. You\u2019ll find them all at the Barcelona Wax Museum. The museum opens at 10:30 a.m. daily, so I recommend going first thing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For an exclusive experience, try our Behind the Scenes: Barcelona Wax Museum VIP Tour<\/a>. It\u2019s at the same Liceu metro as La Boqueria, which is nice and convenient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHobnob with Catalan celebrities and drink champagne in their honor<\/span>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Barcelona Wax Museum VIP Tour<\/p>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n

The museum covers several centuries of history, and the space itself is full of unique characters that have their own tales to tell about the nature of Catalan people, culture, and identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A lot of tourists miss out on learning about the nature of Catalan identity and how it helps to make Barcelona such a distinct experience to those visiting Spain. This tour sheds some light on the most culturally relevant characters from throughout Catalan history, so it\u2019s a great opportunity to get to know what Catalonia is really about. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are a few other famous folks, too, and plenty of fun photo ops. You\u2019ll brush noses with everyone from Wilfred the Hairy and Chewbacca to Barack Obama and Brad Pitt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After becoming acquainted with the museum\u2019s residents, you and your guide will go toast them at the Bosc de les Fades<\/a>, the iconic bar hidden between the Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter with a forest growing inside it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Monumento
Photo by Carlos Carrillo<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you want to, you can even get the add-on a visit to the Columbus Monument. This includes a ride up the elevator inside the tower, the oldest in Barcelona, offering amazing views of both sea and city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An afternoon of curiosities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"plac\u0327a
Photo by Eoghan \u00d3 R\u00f3n\u00e1in<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s time to move on and grab a bite to eat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cristina Carrisi has a great recommendation for you to fill up the fuel tanks. She\u2019s been here for over two years now, has worked all around the city as a guide, and now also runs operations over at our Barcelona headquarters. In short, she knows this city pretty well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s where she suggests to go for lunch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNear the Wax Museum, there\u2019s this square called Pla\u00e7a de George Orwell, and it\u2019s famous in the Gothic Quarter as a spot to grab a drink in the sun. The energy in this square is amazing. The range of options is endless, and restaurants here are always being updated with fresh and seasonal produce. Me and my friends love to grab a spot out on the terraces and order a few tapas to go with our drinks.\u201d<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Palosanto is Cristina\u2019s top recommendation. She says the aubergine in honey and balsamic is delicious, and their pa amb tomaque<\/em>t is the best in the neighborhood. If you can\u2019t get a seat there, then don\u2019t be afraid to swing \u2019round to Oviso<\/a>. They have a terrace right next door. Both places are chock-full of mouth-watering delights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once fed and watered, head over to another square, the Pla\u00e7a de Sant Miquel. This is located by the political heart of the city and is a good place to explore a little deeper. Wander on your own, or follow a guide to see the best spots in two of Barcelona\u2019s most distinctive neighborhoods: El Born and the Gothic Quarter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"casa
Photo by Carlos Carrillo<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Our Catalan Traditions Walking Tour<\/a> lets you dive into Barcelona\u2019s peculiar world of festivals and traditions. Discover how they celebrate throughout the year, meet a few giants, and make a wish under a bridge decked with gargoyles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Party like it\u2019s D\u00eda de Sant Jordi<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Both the Gothic Quarter (or Barri G\u00f2tic) and El Born will give you a taste of local culture, so they\u2019re a great way to wind down your second day in Barcelona. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But you still have a fun evening ahead of you enjoy a classic Spanish experience \u2014 tapas!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tA one-of-a-kind journey through Barcelona\u2019s wildest celebrations<\/span>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Catalan Traditions Walking Tour in the Born and Gothic Quarter<\/p>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n

Seaside dining at Little Barcelona<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Seaside
Photo by Carlos Carrillo<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not the start of the evening. You follow the Via Laietana and make your way across to the portside of the city. It\u2019s time for tapas!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are loads of places to have tapas in town. We visit some of the best on the Barceloneta Tapas Food Tour<\/a>. As a bonus, this tour also offers a special look at the neighborhood of Barceloneta. The district is a man-made island meets fishing village with a distinct character. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Share what you\u2019ve learned from your time in Barcelona, and create new memories as you take in the salty air at seaside eateries. Learn about each unique restaurant and discover the secret of el tapeo<\/em>, the art of eating tapas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\t

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\n\t\t\t\"Seaside\n\t\t\t\"Seaside\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tA cultural journey through the finest flavors of Catalonia<\/span>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

La Barceloneta Tapas Food Tour<\/p>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n

Personally, this is one of my favorite experiences in the city because not only do you get to discover the world of food with someone who knows how to order (as a local would) but also because of the friends made and stories shared. There are few experiences truly as intimate and engaging as this tour. It really is a glimpse into life as a local inside a quintessentially Catalan neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Good night, Barcelona<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Good<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Now it\u2019s 10 p.m. The heat of the day has given way to the warm, humid winds of the coastline. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You have a choice to make. Maybe go back and get some rest. You have to be up early to catch that flight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Or stay out a while longer and wander further around the enchanting paths this city has carved out for those willing to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can probably guess which I\u2019d choose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We look forward to welcoming you to Barcelona with a Barcelona tour<\/a>!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and stunning architecture. With its beaches, landmarks, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder Barcelona attracts millions of visitors every year.  But with so much to see, sometimes it can be overwhelming knowing what to prioritize. If you find yourself with just<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":67,"featured_media":33163,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[785],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33162"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/67"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=33162"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33162\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":38437,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33162\/revisions\/38437"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/33163"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=33162"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=33162"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exp1.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=33162"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}