Planning the perfect girlfriends getaway can be tough. It’s hard to accommodate for everyone’s taste, travel style, and budget. Yet there are some places that just seem to have it all, and Barcelona tops that list. The city has history, culture, nature, and beaches that will suit pretty much everyone’s personality. Here are 10 fun things to do in Barcelona with your girls.
Drink wine on a sailboat
Sipping great Spanish wine with the Barcelona skyline as your backdrop? Yes, please! Sailing the Mediterranean Sea as the sun goes down would be perfect anyway, add a mini wine lesson and plenty of vino for “tasting” and you have yourself an amazing excursion. My girlfriends and I went on this Wine & Sea Airbnb Experience and it was the perfect way to kick off our trip.
Share paella and tapas
No girls’ trip would be complete without plenty of time around the table, sharing laughs and amazing food. Mealtime in Spain is all about spending quality time with your dining partners so take your time and linger over shared tapas and paella. Check out Sensi for delicious tapas in a cozy, intimate space in the Gothic Quarter. Just don’t forget to make reservations!
Go gaga over Gaudi
Architecture fans or not, it’s definitely worth it to spend a day exploring Gaudi’s work. Touristy, yes, but inspiring all the same. La Sagrada Familia is truly mind-blowing. The sheer scale and attention to detail are moving even for the non-religious. Make sure to buy tickets before you go.
Casa Batlló is another great stop. You can’t miss it while walking down Passeig de Gràcia, but a tour of the inside is a step into a dream world. Get there early because it definitely gets crowded. Buy tickets in advance to skip the line and save money.
If you like your Gaudi paired with sweeping views of Barcelona, head to Park Güell. I was a little underwhelmed by the sights there, but the grounds are lovely (and free).
Hit the beach
For a chill (or active) day put on your swimsuits and sunnies and head to Barceloneta. Hang out on the beach and boardwalk or venture to the sea on a stand-up paddleboard. For a delicious and healthy brunch plus SUP session, book a spot at Surf House.
Wander (and shop) different neighborhoods
There are so many tiny alleyways, boutiques, gelato stands and coffee shops to explore that you simply must take to the streets and stop at as many as possible. The best neighborhoods for this are Gracia, El Born and the Gothic Quarter.
Catch a flamenco show
While Barcelona isn’t exactly known for flamenco (that nod goes to southern Spain) you can still catch a great performance. We started a night out with a show at Los Tarantos in the Plaça Reial which was great for a larger group. If I were to go again with a smaller group, I’d definitely go for something more local and intimate like 23 Robadors.
Cheers over gin and tonics
Besides wine, of course, Barcelonans love their gin & tonics. In fact, you can find bars completely dedicated to the cocktail and many that feature unique varieties of infused gin. These aren’t your average short cocktail glass either, they’re two-handers so be ready to sip for a while. Don’t miss Dux in El Born.
Hike Montserrat
Get out into nature together with a stunning trek up Montserrat. Visit the monastery and take in the views, or camp overnight if you’re extra adventurous.
Eat your way through La Boqueria
Sure it may be touristy, but La Boqueria is a must for any food-loving group. From jamon and manchego to seafood and fresh juice, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a market that’s a bit more local, try Santa Caterina Market in El Born.
If you’re looking for a destination for your next girlfriends getaway (or any getaway) Barcelona’s a great choice with something for every kind of traveler. Have you been? What’s your favorite thing to do in Barcelona?
Do you have any recommendations for best areas in Barcelona to stay? We are hoping to rent an apartment. We will be there 4 or 5 days.
Hi Anne. I think central is the way to go. Las Ramblas is the most central location but also the most touristy. I like staying in the El Born neighborhood because it’s still central but has a bit of a more local vibe. Plus there’s great shopping, dining and drinking in the area.