6 Best Places to Visit in Catalonia

Get excited for the top 6 must-see places in Catalonia and discover why each is so distinctive and deserves to be on this list!

Best known for Spain’s second-largest city, Barcelona, the medieval old town of Girona, and the picturesque coastal area of the Costa Brava, Catalonia is a great region to explore. Feel the vibrant atmosphere of Barcelona city, and explore the emblematic monuments of architect Antoni Gaudí.

Sample the region’s famous sparkling cava wine, or go hiking at Montserrat, known for its curious rock formations and monastery. Explore the top 7 must-see places to visit in Catalonia.

#1 Barcelona

It is no wonder that Barcelona attracts millions of tourists yearly and is one of the most visited cities in Spain! The vivid capital has a lot to offer its visitors and is undoubtedly one of Catalonia’s best places to visit!  

The cosmopolitan city is famous for its magical quaint atmosphere and Modernist architecture. Here, you can explore the artworks of renowned architect Antoni Gaudí and enjoy the beaches and outdoor terraces.

Get to know the city’s history on a 3-hour Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking tour, where you will walk along the famous La Rambla and shop at La Boqueria, with over 300 stalls offering various local and imported products! 

Also, explore the neighborhoods like La Barceloneta, Eixample, Poble Sec, and Gracia. All of them transmit a different, yet fantastic, atmosphere! Another fun way to explore Barcelona’s main sights is on a 2.5-hour E-Bike Tour.

Must-See Places in Barcelona: Sagrada Familia / La Rambla /La Boqueria Market / Gothic Quarter / Park Güell / Casa Battló / Casa Milà / Barcelona Cathedral / Picasso Museum / Magic Fountain of Montjuïc / Barceloneta Beach / Barceloneta neighborhood / Gracia neighborhood / Palau de la Música Catalana / Camp Nou (football stadium)

#2 Girona

Girona is a beautiful small city in northern Catalonia with a well-preserved medieval old town worth exploring.

It is also a perfect day-trip destination from Barcelona! However, I recommend staying at least one night to enjoy and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful city. Stroll the narrow, cobblestoned alleys of the old town and visit eye-catching monuments, all within easy walking distance.

Discover the filming locations of season 6 of Game of Thrones and the history of this old city on a fun Game of Thrones Small Group Tour. Highlights of this tour include comparing shots from the series with the actual shooting location and strolling through Girona’s medieval and Jewish quarter.

Must-See Places in Girona: The Colorful Houses of Girona / Eiffel Bridge / Girona Cathedral / Arab Baths / Jewish Quarter “El Call” /Independence Square, City Walls

➜ 7 Best Things to Do and See in Girona

#3 Tarragona

Located on the Costa Dorada in the south of Catalonia, Tarragona is one of the most visited cities in the region.

The Spanish town, also known as “Tarraco”, is well-known for its historical past, and travelers can see the city’s famous Amphitheater (Tarragona’s iconic Roman theater) and many other ancient ruins.

In Tarragona, you can enjoy exquisite Catalan cuisine and explore the beach and the charming squares.

Must-See Places in Tarragona: Roman Amphitheater / Tarragona Cathedral / Mediterranean Balcony / Monument to the Castellers / Devil’s Bridge / Roman Forum / Fishing Village El Serrallo / Milagro Beach

#4 Montserrat

The stunning mountain of Montserrat is the most important in the region for scenic and historical purposes. It is a must-see and, therefore, one of the best places to visit in Catalonia!

The mountain got its name from the rounded rock pillar formations. So, Montserrat translates to “serrated mountain” in the Catalan language.

Being only an hour’s car drive from Barcelona, it’s a popular day-trip destination and the perfect place to be in nature and admire the beautiful landscape.

Must-See Places in Montserrat: Funicular / Monastery / Montserrat Mountain / Black Madonna Statue / Choir at Montserrat / Montserrat Art Museum

#6 Sitges

The lovely beach town of Sitges is located on the Mediterranean Sea and only a 45-minute train journey away from Barcelona, making it very easy to visit and escape the busy city life.

There are many nice things to do and see, from beaches, bars, restaurants, culture, and museums. For example, did you know you have more than 15 beaches to explore?

If you are a big fan of Carnival, you should know that Sitges is well-known for its lively and colorful Carnival. Yes! It is listed in the top 20 of the world’s best places to celebrate Carnival.

Sitges is also one of Europe’s most LGTB-friendliest places. So you may want to relax at the beach, party with friends, or get to know the culture and history better. Sitges always has something exciting to offer no matter the time of the year!

Must-See places in Sitges: Church of Sant Bartomeu I Santa Tecla / Fonollar Street / Maricel Palace / San Sebastian Beach / Balmins Beach

➜ 7 Best Things to Do and See in Sitges

#6 Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is a rocky coastline stretching from Blanes to Portbou and, unquestionably, one of the best places to visit in Catalonia! 

The area is well-known for its beautiful beaches, magnificent cliffs, countless coves, and turquoise waters in summer. But the charming seaside town with white-washed houses (like Cadaqués) along the Costa Brava is also well worth exploring!

You can enjoy long walks along the promenade, relax at the beach, or take a break sitting on a terrace facing the Mediterranean. A road trip along the picturesque coast should be on everybody’s travel list!

Must-See places at Costa Brava: Blanes / Tossa de Mar / Calella de Palafrugell / Tamariu / Begur / Roses, Cadaqués

➜ 6 Best Things to Do and See in Tossa de Mar