At the end of this post you can download for free my Barcelona City Guide, an easy guide jam-packed with my top tips!
If you’re coming to Spain and would like to know what are the most Instagrammable places in Barcelona to fill up your social media pages, then you’re in luck, my friend. In fact, thanks to Antoni Gaudi, the architect who has transformed the city into what it is today, there are endless beautiful places to go in Barcelona (as a Barcelona blogger myself, I usually like to describe the city as an open-air museum).
Indeed, one of the best things that you can do if you’re new here is to simply allow yourself to get lost in town while admiring your surroundings. There is simply so much beauty to see in Barcelona that getting lost will be one of your favorite things to do here.
Related: Barcelona Ultimate City Guide (jam-packed with tips)
As a city with so much unique architecture, Barcelona certainly is filled with quirky and colorful places that guarantee great new additions to your Barcelona insta feed. With that purpose in mind, I have decided to write this post of the best instagrammable places in Barcelona.
Scroll down to find them all and follow me on Instagram for more travel inspiration!
Related: I have written an entire post with all the secrets bloggers and influencers use to take seemingly perfect travel pictures everywhere they go. If you wish to compliment this post of the most Instagrammable places in Barcelona with tips on how to snap a perfect shot, then you have to read this post.
Please note that some of the links below contain affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I make a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Table of Contents
A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE WE START
ANTONI GAUDI
Spoiler alert; there will be a lot of Gaudí artworks in this post roundup. If you haven’t heard of him yet, Antoni Gaudí was a genius who left a strong architectural influence in Barcelona (many calling him the father of Barcelona). His most iconic masterpiece rests unfinished to this day. Yep, you guessed it, I am talking about the extremely famous Sagrada Familia (but we will get there in a bit).
BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO VISIT BARCELONA
Don’t be fooled thinking that if you come during winter time the city will be empty. While it is certainly true that Barcelona gets busier during the hot summer months, the city is never considered quiet or empty. Quite the opposite, as the winter here is very mild (around 14 Celsius), it is no wonder people flock in herds literally any time of the year. With that in mind, rest assured that popular tourist places such as Sagrada Familia will be filled with people (same goes for free attractions, such as walking around The Ramblas, Barcelona’s most famous street).
RELATED: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO BARCELONA, SPAIN
Find below the Most Instagrammable Places in Barcelona Spain
Arc de Triumf
Like most European cities, you will be bound to find a majestic Arc of Triumph in Barcelona too. Located at the entrance of the Citadella Park, this spot is filled with children, elderly people and, of course, tourists, during the day hours. For that reason, if you want a picture that has no one in it, I strongly recommend going to this spot in the early morning hours. The best time to go for the light depends on the time of the year you visit (winter time the sun will come back later).
I took this picture from the park side, but I later found out that if you take the same shot from the opposite side (the street) you will have a beautiful path of palm trees leading to the park.
PRO TIP: If you get there and find it crowded, you can stand closer to the camera to stand out from the crowd.
Park de La Ciutadella
This place is a bit of a toss of a coin to me: sometimes I find this park beautiful, others it seems dirty and filled with filth. It might depend on the day if it had rained or whatever, but after living in Barcelona for almost 4 years I never really made a decision if I like Park de la Ciutadella or not.
HOWEVER, if you’re new to Barcelona, you simply HAVE to go. If you catch it on a city day, look beaten and admire the beauty of the park. Make your way inside and you will soon find the majestic fountain XXXXX
LOCATED AT: Passeig de Lluís Companys
Park Guell
Infinitely more beautiful thank Parc de La Ciutadella, the Parc Guell sits calmly above the hills of Barcelona and I bet you have ever seen a park as fascinating as this one. In fact, the most popular images you see of Barcelona in your social network are probably taken from this park.
Tip: If you go for sunrise before it opens, the entrance is free for all!
In fact, Park Guell’s Monumental Zone is the perfect spot for sunrise. Just as with my Tibidabo tip, the best way to go to Park Guell is to take a taxi to make sure we got there on time. The taxi ride would cost around 10 euros, which to me is totally worth it. The bonus of going to sunrise is that it is the least amount of people you will find inside.
Pro Tip: My advice would be to combine this visit with the Carmel bunkers (next item) – it’s just 20 minutes walking distance apart.
If you are not an early bird and you’re planning one going at normal human hours, make sure to buy your tickets ahead of time. If you wait to buy them at the gate, you may have to wait an hour or two to come in (or worse, risk them being sold out, which can happen).
LOCATED AT: 08024 Barcelona
Bunkers Del Carmel
The best views of Barcelona are in fact FREE!
A small walk uphill (or a quick taxi drive) will take you up to the Bunkers del Carmel, where you will enjoy the panoramic views of the city, its skyline and its most emblematic buildings, such as:
- Sagrada Familia
- Hotel W
- Torre Agbar
- Torre Mapfre and Hotel Arts
- Montjuic Castle
- Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón (Tibidabo)
TIP
This place is very popular, and if you don’t wish to share the view with other people, the best time to go up there would be for sunrise. As aforementioned, with its location being relatively close to Parc Güell it might be a good idea to combine both visits during the morning time.
PRO TIP
On the other hand if you don’t mind having a few other excited people around you, taking some pic Nic items and a bottle of wine up might not be the worst idea. I love enjoying the sunset with Cris and we’ve been there many times )it is a very popular activity among locals).
LOCATED AT: Carrer de Maria Labernia,
Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is probably Barcelona’s most iconic attraction, and for good reason. Because of that, I have written an entire post that is jam-packed with information and tips for your visit to the Sagrada Familia. Be sure to check it out here.
Don’t waste tour time with a selfie of a selfie stick trying to fit the entire structure in your picture right in front of it. It won’t look good, trust me. What you have to do is make your way to the little park that is located right behind the Sagrada Familia. The most iconic spot (such as the picture you see below) is taken in front of a little pond and you will usually see some people queuing to take turns taking their pictures there.
However, there are many other options of places for you to snap a beautiful picture with the Sagrada Familia in the background.
Option 1 – This park is probably one of the most famous Instagrammable places in Barcelonaa. If you walk along the edge of the pond just a little further, there are several spots for good pictures.
Option 2 – The little benches: These are trickier during the day time because there are so many people sitting there and walking around. However, if you go a little before the crowd, or even for sunrise, this little bench gives you an iconic picture with the Sagrada Familia in the background.
LOCATED AT: Carrer de Mallorca, 401
RELATED: 9 COMMON TOURIST MISTAKES TO AVOID AT LA SAGRADA FAMILIA
Barcelona from a rooftop: Hotel Ayre Rosellón
Option 3 – Feeling like a cocktail with a view? Then you gotta try the Aire rooftop, the terrace with probably the most envious view of Gaudi’s masterpiece. Honestly, the terrace is so close to the Sagrada Familia that you can almost touch it (not really, but still). There is nothing really like sipping margaritas while observing details of a masterpiece right before your eyes.
TIP
Of course, the Aire rooftop is just as famous as the Sagrada Familia itself as an attraction in Barcelona so rest assured you will have to queue in summer times to go up. If you want to enjoy the sunset from the terrace be sure to arrive a few hours before sunset so you are sure you won’t be queuing when the time actually comes.
PRO TIP
If you plan to visit Sagrada Familia in the summer especially, make sure to get tickets ahead of time, as they sometimes sell out ahead of time. You do not want to miss this architectural gem, so it is better to be safe than sorry with these tickets.
LOCATED AT: Carrer del Roselló, 390
Barcelona’s Gothic Cathedral
Every day seemingly thousands of people gather in front of the Cathedral’s facade to admire their structure, or to eat at the many restaurant options in front.
As for Instagrammable places in Barcelona, if you want a photo alone in front of the cathedral you need to go there for sunrise. See the photo I took below? It was very early in the morning yet still there were already many people around.
Another option for a picture would be from the rooftop, such as the below picture:
Use the elevator inside the cathedral for one of the most unique views in Barcelona.
LOCATED AT: Pla de la Seu
TICKET TO GO UP COSTS 7 EUROS
Pont del Bisbe / The Bisbe Bridge
Just next to the Gothic Cathedral is probably the most photographed street in Barcelona. The street itself is nothing special, however, what makes it special is a small bridge that connects two buildings which makes a beautiful photo setting.
As this street is not very wide, it gets very crowded very soon, so the best way to take an Instagram-worthy picture is to wake up early (ahem, before all the other tourists).
LOCATED AT: Carrer del Bisbe, 1
La Boqueria Market
The Boqueria Market is without a doubt the most famous in Barcelona (and conveniently located right in the center of Barcelona’s busiest city, Las Ramblas). This place not only is charming, delicious, loud and cheap but also extremely Instagrammable (at least its entrance).
TIP
The closer to the entrance, the more expensive things are to eat. Take your time and go in and buy the exact same things for half the price.
Recommended: Book here a Paella cooking experience and Boqueria market tour.
LOCATED AT: La Rambla, 91
Palau Macaya
Designed by the modernist architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch, this is a beautiful building (decorated with white stucco and stone sculptures) that not many tourists know about. A modernist building, with gothic influence, that speaks for itself, built in the 20th century. Its internal features are 3 large stone arches, a breathtaking courtyard, and a stairway decorated with floral motifs (formerly used to access the main house).
Carrer de l’Allada-Vermell
Close to Born area, Carrer de l’Allada-Vermell is a pedestrian street with a great vibe. You’ll find cool cafes and eateries and lots of trees.
What is famous about this address is, in fact, one tiny building’s facade. Building number 12 stands out from the crowd with its vertical garden boasting heaps of plants. Being so green and cute it is no wonder it has quickly become part of the Instagrammable places in Barcelona.
LOCATED AT: Carrer de l’Allada-Vermell, 12
Palau de La Musica Catalana
Theatre lovers, unite! Did you know that the Palau de la Música Catalana (which translates into Palace of Catalan Music) is the only concert hall that has ever been declared a UNESCO heritage site? The Palau de la Musica is another modernist architectural jewels of Barcelona, and even though its colors and motifs of nature can recall Gaudí’s works, it was actually designed by Domenech I Muntaner as a commission for the Catalan Orfeo (not many people know this and assume it was made by Gaudi itself since it is so quirky).
Here you will find one of the most popular Instagram place in Barcelona: the Palau de La Musica’s infamously famous colorful balcony.
The interior of the building is also extremely insta-worthy and definitely worth going in. Keep in mind to not only focus on the picture but to take a moment to admire with your own eyes the majestic details beyond you. Let yourself fall in love with the colorful mosaics that illuminate the interior of the building like nothing you’ve ever seen before.
Certainly, the insta-famous balcony is usually closed for concerts (which I recommend going if you have time). The only way to visit its interior is either by going to a concert (recommended, since this way not only you can see the interior, but you can also enjoy some good music) or by joining an organized tour.
LOCATED AT: Carrer del Palau de la Música, 4-6
It’s often sold out, so I highly recommend booking your ticket in advance .
CASA BATTLO
Casa Battlo is probably my second favorite Gaudi attraction in Barcelona. I remember the first time I was inside I was simply in awe with its details and what it represented from nature. The whole house is a marvel that has to be admired and if you had to choose between paying to go inside Casa Battlp or la Perdra (further in this post), there shouldn’t be any doubt in your mind that you should go to Casa Battlo.
It is hard even to put in words why it is so special. This is really the type of place you have to see with your own eyes.
Once inside, The best Instagram spots in Casa Batlló are the windows in the main living room, the white hallway that leads to the storerooms and its colorful rooftop. As you can expect from any other touristic attraction, getting a picture anywhere onside Casa Battlo on your own is virtually impossible (you are bound to have one or two visitors in the background of your photo listening to the audio guide).
However, it is possible to visit Casa Battlo at earlier hours and have a more private experience. This will allow you to snap instagram-worthy shots at ease.
Tip: You can only buy tickets online in case you wish to access Casa Battlo before the general public.
LOCATED AT: Paseo de Gracia, 43
CASA AMATLLER
A less famous spot, yet just as stunning, the Casa Amatller rests timidly next to the impotent Casa Battlo. If I can be honest the reason I found out about Casa Amatller is that just next to it they have a wonderful and healthy (and cheap) salad bar called Faborit, where you build your own bowl. I go there all the time and always noticed the stunning details of Casa Amattler.
By the way. the best part of Casa Amatller (besides the jaw-droppping architecture) is the chocolate tasting.
Jardins de Rubió i Lluch
A little hidden gem in the heart of Raval. I love this little place so much. They also have a beautiful little bar, with a stunning setting. If you wish for a little aperitif, a quick bite to eat, you should check this place out.
LA PEDRERA / CASA MILA
La Pedrera is another epic Gaudí creation, however far from my favorite (in fact, if you have to choose one attraction to cross off your list, I would say it is the Pedrera). Why is that, you might be wondering? Simply put, the Pedrera building is absolutely stunning from the outside and the rooftop. However, the whole interior is nothing special, just a kind of architectural museum filled with maquettes. It is quite boring=, rally, and honestly not worth paying 20 euros for (unless you really want to see the rooftop, which granted, is jaw-dropping).
I don’t know. I’ve been there =, done that. Yes the rooftop is beautiful but is it worth it paying 20 euros just for that? That’s up to you.
PRO TIP
Visiting in the summer months? You will be happy to hear you can enjoy the rooftop with a private jazz concert. During busy summer months, organizers create events at the Pedrera rooftop for visitors to toy the views with awesome music in the background, all the while enjoying some drinks. It honestly can’t get better than that
TIPS
If you’re looking for something different, you can also visit it at night.
LOCATED AT: Provença, 261-265
Related: EVERYTHING THERE IS TO SEE IN BARCELONA
Sant Pau Recinte Modernista
Whoever thought a hospital would be so attractive? Leave it to Barcelona to take care of it.
The Art nouveau is the former hospital that was designed by Domenech Muntaner. There you will find a stunning collection of colorful buildings inspired by nature around a harmonious garden.
I know what you’re thinking: who the hell goes to a hospital to take a picture for Instagram, right? I know, I thought the same and I couldn’t believe this was a thing./ However, I quickly found out that the building does not work as a hospital since 2009 when it was renovated to look like a museum and a cultural center (a.k.a. gram’ worthy shots)
If you haven’t seen it yet I 100% recommend it.
PRO TIP
Snap some Instagram worthy shots of its beautiful architecture, then go inside and learn about Catalan history.
LOCATED AT: Carrer de Sant Antoni Maria Claret, 167
Carrer Padua
Even though this building is quite big and not exactly discreet, unless you have the right address this can be a tricky place to find.
Tip: the street is quite narrow, so if you want to try and get the entire building in one shot, I recommend you taking with you a wide-angle shot.
LOCATED AT: Carrer Padua, 75
CASA VICENS
Casa Vicens is another multicolor house designed by (you guessed it) Gaudí. Located in the popular Gràcia neighborhood, it has many stories to tell and, like every other Gaudi construction, you can expect to marvel its many surprising details. It is a UNESCO Heritage Site and recently it was opened to the public.
LOCATED AT: Carrer de les Carolines, 20
Barceloneta Beach
Be it winter, be it summer, you have to go check Barcelona’s artificial beach if you’re visiting for the first time. In fact, to me, this beach and the W Hotel skyline are one of the most emblematic images of the city.
PRO TIP
if you’re around during summer times, you can enjoy parties at the W on Sundays (free entrance).
Looking for a sport?
During summer times you also have the option to rent a stand-up paddle and practice some SUP with an iconic view of the city.
Tibidabo Mountain and Amusement Park
I must admit I haven’t been up there yet, even though it has been on my Barcelona bucket list since I moved here in 2016.
Tibidabo is a mountain and is one of the highest points in Barcelona, boasting as well one of the best views of the city. There’s also a very beautiful church and a charming amusement park.
In fact, If you want to get the view from above Tibidabo that is commonly shown online, you have to pay to go to this amusement park.
Tip: Make sure you visit at the right hours and on a clear day though. Sometimes in the morning the park is closed. Because of that, I don’t think it is worth it going there only for the sunrise (the Bunkers would be a much better sunrise alternative).
LOCATED AT: Plaça del Tibidabo, 3
HOW TO GET TO TIBIDABO: Tibidabo is located a bit outside of town, so the best and fastest way to get there is with an Uber. You will spend about $25 to get there from the Diagonal area.
SOME EXTRA TIPS ON BARCELONA
If you don’t have much time in Barcelona try to make the most of it with just a little bit of planning.
I understand that when we travel we don’t always have time to see everything we would have hoped, so if you absolutely have to choose what to see, I’d recommend places like Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, and Parc Güell to start with. In addition, as these places are quite popular, a great way to save time is to book your tickets in advance.
An extremely important tip for visiting Barcelona: Beware of pickpockets, especially in touristy areas as Las Ramblas, El Born and Gothic quarter and believe me, don’t underestimate how good they are at robbing people without you even noticing it.
Don’t be scared though. It is never violent and there’s always undercover police watching over your safety, but do stay alert at all times just in case.
RELATED: 12 COMMON MISTAKES TOURISTS MAKE WHEN VISITING BARCELONA
Brunch and Cake
If you like food for the gram, then you have to eat at Brunch and Cake.
I have one that is located just next to my house and for years I refused to eat there because the food looked extremely made for Instagram (to my mind it couldn’t possibly be good, it must be popular just because of the quirky food presentation).
However, one day I was ‘’forced’’ to try it out because m favorite brunch place just in front was extremely busy and I didn’t have time to wait’s o my friend suggested Brunch and Cake as it seemed emptier (even though finding brunch and cake empty is not always a given).
To my surprise, I actually loved what I ate. It was a sort of chicken sandwich with avocado and some nachos. I can’t even explain, so take a look at the picture below.
You can probably see what I mean with ‘’Instagramable food’’. But yes, after trying it out I am happy to say the food is also very tasty.
You can’t book in advance eat Brunch & Cake, so I suggest arriving with time to spare if you have a tight schedule.
RELATED: MY TOP RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS IN BARCELONA FROM LIVING HERE 4+ YEARS.
INSTAGRAMMERS WHO ARE IN THIS POST (well-worth following)
Brigitte Dessane (@brigittedesanne)
Karen Alexandra (@karenalxeandra_)
@Barcelonatravelgirls
Farah Cuyvers (@farahinthesun)
Sol (@ssolalessa)
Soledade Abella (@thebarcelonadiaries)
Sara Kirstine (@sarakirstine)
Gill (@gilzvacay)
Ana Palombini (@labellesociety), yours truly!
Planning a trip to Barcelona any time soon? That’s so exciting! To help you get started, check out Get Your Guide’s top-rated tours and activities.
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- Get Your Guide – for fun tours and attractions tickets
Have you ever been to Barcelona? Did you manage to see all of the above locations? Leave me a comment below!
GOING TO BARCELONA SOON?
- A Complete Guide to Barcelona
- All of Barcelona’s Must-See Attractions (with helpful tips)
- Perfectly Easy 2 Days Self-Walking tour of Barcelona
- Mistakes tourists Always Make When Visiting Barcelona
- 9 Mistakes You’ll Want to Avoid Inside the Sagrada Familia
- Top Places to Eat (recommendations from locals)
- First Time in Spain? Here is a Useful Guide.
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