The Perfect 10 Days in Barcelona Itinerary with Insider Tips

Planning 10 days in Barcelona?

You’re about to have a trip you’ll be talking about years from now!

Ten days give you the rare chance to do more than scratch the surface. You’ll see the famous sights, explore local neighborhoods, enjoy a few easy day trips, and still have time to relax.

I live here and have helped countless travelers make the most of their time in the Catalan capital. This is the exact 10-day Barcelona itinerary I’d give a friend visiting for the first (or even fifth) time.

Let’s plan your perfect 10 days in Barcelona now!

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Why Follow My 10 Days in Barcelona Itinerary

Most 10-day plans either try to squeeze in everything or barely scratch the surface.

Some jump from one side of the city to the other without thinking about your feet, your time, or your energy.

This 10 days in Barcelona itinerary is not like that.

I live in Barcelona and built this itinerary after helping tons of people — friends, readers, clients — plan smart, stress-free trips. It’s shaped around real travel days, not some idealized sprint.

Each day sticks to one area or theme. You’ll explore without cramming, discover places most tourists miss, and still hit the big attractions.

The pacing is real. Some days move slower. Others pick up the pace. That way, you won’t burn out halfway through your trip.

I’ve also laid it out with clear routes and realistic timing, so you won’t waste half your day figuring out what’s nearby or how to get there.

And I’ve kept it honest. If a place is skippable or overpriced, I’ll let you know. If something’s worth going out of your way for, it’s in here, too.

By the time you leave, you’ll feel like you’ve actually experienced Barcelona, not just taken pictures of it. 😉

💡Tip: You don’t have to follow every stop. This 10 days in Barcelona itinerary is flexible, so you can easily swap things in or out without wrecking the flow.

What to Do in 10 Days in Barcelona

Ten days in Barcelona gives you the freedom to see the big sights and dig deep into the city’s authentic side.

The itinerary mixes iconic places with lesser-known spots, relaxed walks, great food, and a few easy day trips. Everything’s laid out in a way that makes sense. No backtracking or wasted time!

Day 1: Iconic UNESCO Sites and Panoramic Views

Start your trip with Barcelona’s most iconic sights and skyline views. Today’s route includes two UNESCO-listed landmarks, a famous boulevard, and a scenic hilltop to end your day.

1. Visit the Famous Sagrada Família

Kick off your trip with one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Barcelona, Sagrada Família.

The world-famous basilica is Gaudí’s masterpiece and the city’s most recognizable symbol. Even if you’ve seen photos, nothing compares to standing beneath its massive towers.

The stonework is full of surprising details. Snakes, fruits, sea creatures, and entire biblical scenes are all carved into the walls.

Step inside, and the mood shifts.

Sunlight pours through the stained glass, washing the interior in deep blues, greens, and golds. The ceiling soars like a forest canopy, with columns that stretch and split like tree branches.

It’s awe-inspiring, dramatic, and completely unique.

I recommend you take the lift up one of the towers. You’ll get a closer look at the textures and shapes that make Gaudí’s work so different. Plus, you’ll be treated to sweeping city views!

💡 Tip: It’s no longer possible to buy your Sagrada Familia ticket in person. The only way to enter Barcelona’s most famous attraction is to get your ticket online!

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 2.5 hours. Enough for a full visit inside and out, plus the tower if you book ahead.

2. Discover Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau

Just a 10-minute walk from Sagrada Família down Avinguda de Gaudí, you’ll find one of Barcelona’s most underrated landmarks, Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau.

It was a working hospital in the past, but you’d never guess it from the design. With its spires, mosaics, stained glass, and bold brickwork, it looks more like a royal palace than a medical center.

Created by modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the complex is a true architectural treasure. The layout is open and peaceful, with landscaped walkways connecting a series of bright, detailed buildings.

Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits, beautifully restored interiors, and underground tunnels that once helped staff move between wards.

💡Tip: Before heading to your next stop, grab lunch in this part of Eixample. It’s packed with low-key cafés and tapas bars, with way fewer crowds than the touristy areas.

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 3 hours. Enough to explore the complex, photo stops, and a relaxed lunch break.

3. Enjoy the Best Views from the Bunkers del Carmel

After the buzz of the city, head up to the Bunkers del Carmel for the most unforgettable views in Barcelona.

Originally built during the Spanish Civil War, the bunkers sit high above the city and give you a clear 360° panorama. You’ll spot everything from the Sagrada Família and Torre Glòries to the beaches, Montjuïc, and the distant mountains.

Getting here from Sant Pau takes about 30 minutes on foot. It’s peaceful, but some sections are steep. If you’d rather skip the trek, take Bus V23.

💡Tip: Bring water and a snack. There’s nothing at the top, and the climb can be tiring.

🕒 Time needed: 1.5 hours. That gives you time to get there, rest, take in the views, and get back down.

4. Wander the Gothic Quarter After Dark

From the bunkers, take Bus #24 down to Plaça Catalunya and spend your evening in the Gothic Quarter.

At night, the historic area feels calm and mysterious. With fewer crowds, the quiet lanes and soft lighting make it perfect for a slow stroll.

Start near the cathedral and head toward Plaça Reial, where palm trees and glowing lamps set the mood.

Want to see a flamenco show? Tarantos is a small venue with intense, live performances. Afterward, grab dinner at Bodega La Palma. It’s a quiet local spot serving Catalan classics.

💡Tip: Tarantos often sells out. Book tickets online in advance.

🕒 Time needed: 2.5 to 3 hours. Enough for a walk, show, and dinner.

Day 2: Stylish Streets and Creative Corners

Today is all about design, charm, and local character. You’ll walk elegant streets, spot bold architecture, and explore the Modernist heart of Barcelona before winding down in one of its most vibrant neighborhoods.

1. Start at the Central Plaça Catalunya

Begin your second day in Barcelona at Plaça Catalunya, the city’s central crossroads.

The busy square connects nearly every part of town. To the south is the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla, and to the north are the elegant streets of Eixample.

Locals meet here, tours depart from here, and many metro and bus lines pass through.

You’ll see fountains, sculptures, flocks of pigeons, and a constant flow of people.

🕒 Time needed: 20–30 minutes.

2. Explore the Best of Modernism on Passeig de Gràcia

Next, stroll up Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona’s most iconic streets.

You’ll see high-end shops mixed with some of the city’s best architecture. Look out for mosaic benches, elegant lamp posts, and details hidden in rooftops and façades.

The highlights? Casa Batlló and Casa Milà!

The Gaudí-designed homes look like they’ve been pulled from a dream. Even if you don’t go inside, the façades are worth the stop.

Nearby, Casa Amatller and Casa Lleó Morera show off more of the city’s Modernist charm, with colorful tiles and ornate windows.

💡Tip: Only touring one? Go for Casa Batlló. It’s creative and immersive. Book ahead to skip the lines.

🕒 Time needed: 1.5 to 3 hours. That gives you time for a full walk and a visit to one or two buildings.

3. Soak Up Village Vibes in Gràcia

Keep heading uphill and you’ll land in Gràcia, a laid-back neighborhood that still feels like an independent town.

The pace is slower here. Locals fill the squares, indie shops line the narrow streets, and the cafés are relaxed and low-key. Walk along Carrer de Verdi or Carrer d’Astúries to get a feel for it.

If you’re up for a quieter Gaudí stop, Casa Vicens is nearby. It’s colorful, bold, and often overlooked, so you’ll have it all to yourself.

💡Tip: Lunchtime here is ideal. Many places offer great set menus at much better prices than in the city center.

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 3 hours. Enough for a stroll, a relaxed meal, and a quick visit to Casa Vicens.

4. Walk Through the Whimsical Park Güell

After lunch, head to Park Güell, where Gaudí’s wild imagination comes to life.

The park blends nature with bold design. Think candy-colored mosaics, curving benches, and playful buildings.

The grand terrace is the highlight, offering postcard views over Barcelona.

Wander beyond the main area to find shady paths, stone arches, and peaceful spots to rest. It’s a climb from Gràcia, so consider Bus #24 or a taxi if you want to skip the steep hill.

💡Tip: Book tickets ahead online. Entry is timed and often sells out.

🕒 Time needed: 1.5 to 2 hours. Just right for both the terrace and quieter paths.

5. Wind Down in the Cool El Born Area

From Park Güell, hop on Metro L4 to Jaume I and step into El Born’s mix of history and creativity.

This neighborhood blends old stone streets with buzzing bars, unique shops, and hidden galleries. Don’t miss the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar and the energy along Passeig del Born as evening sets in.

🍴 Grab dinner nearby. Try Puertecillo Born for seafood or Orvay for modern tapas. For drinks, head to Dr. Stravinsky or keep it simple at Creps al Born.

🕒 Time needed: 1.5 to 3 hours. Just enough for a relaxed walk, dinner, and a drink.

Day 3: Day Trip to Magical Montserrat

Trade city life for fresh air and towering cliffs on a day trip to Montserrat.

The jagged mountain range feels like from another planet.

At its heart is the Montserrat Monastery, where visitors come to see the Black Madonna and listen to the famous boys’ choir.

But even if you skip the religious sites, the mountain itself is the star. The views are incredible, and there are plenty of trails if you feel like hiking.

💡Tip: It’s easy to visit on your own, but it takes some coordination. You can follow my step-by-step Montserrat guide. Or skip the logistics and book a guided tour instead.

🕒 Time needed: Full day. Set aside 8 to 10 hours total, including transport and time to explore.

Day 4: Old Town Charm Meets Mediterranean Breeze

This day takes you through some of the city’s most atmospheric corners and sunniest shores. Start in the maze-like streets of the old town, then follow the sea breeze past beaches and boardwalks into a laid-back neighborhood by the water.

1. Get Lost in the Gothic Quarter

Start your day in the heart of old Barcelona.

The Gothic Quarter feels completely different in the morning. It’s quieter, calmer, and full of hidden gems.

Wander the maze of narrow streets and don’t miss these highlights:

• Barcelona Cathedral. Admire the Gothic arches, then visit the cloister with 13 white geese.
• MUHBA. Walk through underground Roman ruins, including streets, homes, and a winery.
• Temple of Augustus. Four impressive columns from the 1^st century, hidden in a courtyard.
• Museu Frederic Marès. A mind-bending collection of sculptures and odd treasures.
• Carrer de Petritxol. Also known as Chocolate Street, it’s an unmissable culinary stop.

💡Tip: Want more spots nearby? Here’s my full list of activities in the Gothic Quarter for easy add-ons.

🕒 Time needed: 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Enough to explore key sights and enjoy a treat.

2. Stroll Down the Lively La Rambla

From the Gothic Quarter, it’s a short walk to La Rambla, Barcelona’s most famous pedestrian street.

It’s busy, chaotic, and yes, touristy. But it’s still worth seeing.

The avenue starts at Plaça Catalunya and heads toward the sea. Shady trees, performers, and kiosks selling flowers and souvenirs line the promenade.

Along the way, look for:

• Joan Miró mosaic. A bright design underfoot. It’s easy to miss, so keep your eyes down.
• Casa Bruno Cuadros. Covered in umbrellas and a big dragon. Quirky and fun.
• Gran Teatre del Liceu. The city’s historic opera house with a grand façade.

Don’t skip La Boqueria Market. It’s loud, colorful, and full of delicious things to try. Pick up a fresh juice, a paper cone of jamón, or something sweet instead of sitting at a pricey La Rambla café.

💡Tip: Watch your bag! This area is a magnet for pickpockets, especially near the market.

🕒 Time needed: 45 to 60 minutes. Enough for a relaxed stroll and a quick bite.

3. Join a Boat Ride from Port Vell

After the buzz of La Rambla, head to nearby Port Vell.

The historic harbor opens to sea views, salty air, and a long, peaceful boardwalk.

Stroll along the palm-lined promenade. You’ll see yachts, locals relaxing, and musicians playing soft tunes. Depending on the season, you might catch a pop-up market or a local festival by the water.

Ready for a change of scenery?

Join a boat tour. You’ll find everything from classic sailboats to catamarans with lounge seating and soft music. It’s a relaxing way to see the skyline from the sea.

💡Tip: Most boat rides last around 2 hours. In warmer months, they fill up quickly. Book ahead if you want the best option.

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 2.5 hours. That gives you time to stroll the port and enjoy the cruise.

4. Follow the Shoreline to Bogatell Beach

After your boat ride, walk toward Barceloneta. Once a fishing village, it’s now one of the liveliest beachside areas in the city.

The narrow streets are packed with character. Observe neighbors chatting from balconies, scooters zipping past, and the smell of grilled seafood in the air.

Once you reach the beach, follow the wide promenade. Barceloneta Beach is busy and full of energy, but the vibe softens as you keep walking.

Bogatell Beach is quieter and more spacious, with more locals than tourists. It’s a good spot to sit, read, or just enjoy the breeze.

The walk between beaches is easy, with a few relaxed spots to grab a drink or just pause by the sea.

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 3 hours. Ideal for a coastal walk, a break on the sand, and a quick swim if the weather’s warm.

5. Visit the Creative Hub of Poblenou

After your beach walk, head inland to Poblenou, a former industrial zone turned local favorite.

This part of the city blends old warehouses with cafés, art studios, and design spaces. It feels modern but still very authentic.

Start your evening along La Rambla del Poblenou. It’s tree-lined and relaxed, perfect for a stroll.

🍴 For dinner, El 58 serves creative tapas in a cozy space. Up for a longer walk? Cabo Nou is a hidden gem with homemade dishes and great vermouth.

💡Tip: Poblenou is great for a slower-paced night. Skip the tourist zones and enjoy the local scene here instead.

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 3 hours. Enough to explore, eat well, and end your day on a chilled note.

Day 5: Day Trip to Historic Tarragona and Sitges

On Day 5, I suggest you take a full-day escape from the city. This combo tour to Tarragona and Sitges hits all the right notes.

Start with Tarragona, once one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire.

Explore the old forum, walk along ancient walls, and stand in a seaside amphitheater where gladiators once fought.

The ruins are impressive, but the town itself — full of quiet plazas and hidden lanes — is just as rewarding.

Next, change pace in Sitges.

The coastal town is all about charm and color. Think whitewashed buildings, laid-back cafés, small art galleries, and soft-sand beaches. It’s a great place to unwind after a morning of ancient history.

What makes the day special is the contrast. One half is about time travel, the other is a breezy break by the sea.

💡Tip: Want to skip the train transfers and tight schedules? This small-group tour makes it easy to see both towns in one relaxed day.

🕒 Time needed: Full day. Plan for 9 to 10 hours to enjoy each stop without rushing.

Day 6: History, Culture, and Culinary Finds

This day brings together history, modern culture, and some of the city’s best food spots. You’ll explore hilltop views, visit museums, and finish with a walk through the foodie-friendly streets of Sant Antoni and Poble-sec.

1. Begin at the Bustling Plaça Espanya

Start your sixth day at Plaça Espanya, one of the city’s grandest and busiest squares.

It marks the entry point to Montjuïc and connects several transport options.

You’ll spot the twin red towers right away. They’re modeled after St. Mark’s Campanile in Venice and stand guard over the avenue leading uphill. Behind them, Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina stretches toward Montjuïc, framed by fountains and steps.

Check out Las Arenas, too. The former bullring has been turned into a shopping center. Head to the rooftop for a 360° panoramic view.

🕒 Time needed: 30 to 45 minutes. Take in the views, snap a few photos, and head up the hill when you’re ready.

2. Head Up Montjuïc for Art, Views, and History

From Plaça Espanya, follow the wide avenue flanked by fountains (still dry for now) and head toward Montjuïc.

You can walk, but the escalators built into the hill make it an easier climb.

Your first stop is the impressive Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC). The gallery holds a huge collection of Catalan art, from Romanesque frescoes to modern pieces. Even if you don’t go inside, the view from its front steps is worth the climb.

After that, continue exploring Montjuïc.

• Poble Espanyol. A model Spanish village built for the 1929 Expo, with craft shops, quiet squares, and architecture from all over Spain.
• Olympic Stadium. Walk around the grounds where the 1992 Summer Olympics took place.
• Montjuïc Castle. At the highest point of the hill, an old military fortress offers panoramic views and a quiet break from the city buzz.

💡Tip: You can skip the walk and take the funicular from Paral·lel metro station, then connect to the cable car to the castle for sweeping views.

🕒 Time needed: 3 to 4 hours. Enough to visit one or two sights, roam the gardens, and enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

3. Snack on Pintxos in Poble-sec

After Montjuïc, walk down or take the funicular to Poble-sec for a laid-back lunch.

Head straight to Carrer de Blai. It’s a pedestrian street with great food at local prices.

The buzzing street is packed with pintxos bars serving tasty bites stacked on bread. You grab what you like, then pay based on how many toothpicks you’ve collected.

🍴Try Blai 9, La Tasca del Blai 12, or Bar La Bota. They’re all solid picks, but honestly, it’s hard to go wrong here.

🕒 Time needed: 1 to 2 hours. Enough for a relaxed lunch and a quick stroll around the neighborhood.

4. Find Incredible Street Art Murals

Your next adventure during your 10 days in Barcelona is totally different from the previous stops. You’re going to discover some of the best street art in Barcelona.

Start at The Three Chimneys Urban Park in Poble-sec. It’s a legal graffiti zone, so the walls are always changing. Then, walk over to El Raval, where you’ll find two highlights:

• A long graffiti wall at Nou de la Rambla and Paral·lel.
• Keith Haring’s “Together We Can Stop AIDS” near MACBA.

🎨 Bonus: Snap a photo with El Gat de Botero, a giant bronze cat lounging on La Rambla del Raval.

🕒 Time needed: 1 to 1.5 hours. Go quickly or take your time, it’s up to you.

5. Taste Your Way Through Sant Antoni

Just across from El Raval, Sant Antoni feels more local but still full of flavor.

Start at Mercat de Sant Antoni, a huge iron-framed market where you’ll find fresh fruit, jamón, cheeses, and a few hidden tapas counters. Downstairs, you can even spot sections of the medieval city wall.

After the market, walk along Ronda de Sant Antoni. It’s a wide, easygoing street where locals run errands and relax at outdoor cafés.

A block over, Carrer del Parlament has a livelier feel, packed with small bars and cozy spots for food and drinks.

🍴 Grab a vermouth at Bar Calders, try hearty dishes at La Bodega d’en Rafel, or sit down at Pepa Tomate if you’re after something more polished.

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 3 hours. Just right for market browsing, a stroll, and a good meal.

Day 7: Day Trip to the Medieval Gem Girona

If you’re in the mood for history, Girona is worth visiting. It’s only 40 minutes by high-speed train, but it feels like stepping into another era.

Start in the Old Town, where cobbled streets twist past stone arches and quiet courtyards. The Jewish Quarter is one of the best-preserved in Europe, narrow, quiet, and full of character.

Make your way up to Girona Cathedral. Its grand staircase is steep, and the church itself is massive. The Gothic nave is the widest of its kind.

For a great walk and views, climb the ancient city walls. You’ll see red rooftops, church spires, and the hills beyond.

Back down by the Onyar River, the row of pastel houses and the iron Eiffel Bridge are a must for a quick photo.

🎥 Bonus: Game of Thrones fans will spot a few familiar backdrops throughout the city. Join a themed walking tour of Girona to discover the best filming locations.

💡Tip: Trains leave regularly from Barcelona Sants. For fewer crowds, go early in the morning and return by late afternoon.

🕒 Time needed: 7 to 8 hours. That covers the main sights, a relaxed lunch, and time to explore at your own pace.

Day 8: Heights, Science, and Modernist Energy

Start your day with sweeping views from Barcelona’s highest ridge, then dive into hands-on exhibits at the city’s top science museum. In the afternoon, wind down in Eixample, where wide avenues, local cafés, and classic architecture set the scene.

1. Ride Up to Tibidabo for Top Views

Kick off your day with a trip to Tibidabo, the highest point in Barcelona. The views stretch across the city and out to the sea.

Getting there takes a bit, but it’s part of the fun. Take the S1 or S2 train from Plaça Catalunya, switch to the funicular, then hop on Bus #111 for the final climb.

At the top, you’ll see the Temple of the Sacred Heart with its giant Jesus statue. Next to it is the Tibidabo Amusement Park, full of retro charm. Even if you skip the rides, it’s worth wandering around for the views alone.

💡Tip: Grab a bite before heading up. Food options at the summit are limited and a bit overpriced.

🕒 Time needed: 3 to 5 hours. Just right for the journey up, the viewpoints, and a quick look around.

2. Get Hands-On with Science at CosmoCaixa

After Tibidabo, make your way to CosmoCaixa, Barcelona’s top interactive science museum.

It’s in the Sant Gervasi neighborhood, and easy to reach by taxi or a 45-minute downhill walk.

Inside, you’ll find cool exhibits about physics, geology, and the environment.

The highlight is the Flooded Forest. It’s a living and breathing mini Amazon rainforest with real plants, fish, birds, and mammals.

💡 Tip:  Grab a bite at the museum’s cafeteria. It’s not fancy, but it’ll save you time and replenish your energy.

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 3 hours. Plenty of time to explore, enjoy the forest, and grab a snack at the café.

3. Wander through the Stylish Eixample

After CosmoCaixa, take Bus V13 straight to Esquerra de l’Eixample, known for its wide streets and elegant buildings.

Start on Carrer del Consell de Cent, a calm, pedestrian-friendly street. Then, head to La Rambla de Catalunya, where locals sip coffee and shop in cute boutiques.

🍴 If you want to eat here, try La Flauta for seafood, Cervecería Catalana for a lively atmosphere, or Moritz Brewery for casual drinks and big tables.

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 3 hours. Enough to walk around and enjoy a relaxed meal. You can also enjoy the nightlife here in the clubs and bars.

Day 9: Andorra, France, and Spain in a Day

Ready for something totally different?

On Day 9, leave the city behind and cross three countries in one unforgettable day. This small-group day trip from Barcelona takes you into the Pyrenees, where you’ll visit a charming French village, a scenic mountain pass in Andorra, and a historic Spanish town along the way.

You’ll start early with a drive through Catalonia’s countryside before stopping in Baga, a medieval village tucked into the mountains.

Then, it’s off to Ax-les-Thermes, a peaceful spa town in France where you can dip your feet in thermal waters and browse local shops.

After crossing into Andorra, you’ll head up to a high mountain pass with jaw-dropping views, then visit Andorra la Vella, Europe’s highest capital.

💡Tip: Bring your passport! Andorra is not in the EU like Spain and France, so let’s make your day trip smooth.

Day 10: Funky Art, Green Spaces, and Local History

Wrap up your 10 days in Barcelona with bold art, peaceful parks, and stories from the past. From El Born’s museums to the waterfront’s historic corners, it’s a laid-back final day with plenty of character.

1. Explore El Born’s Art Scene

Start your final day in El Born, a charming area full of narrow streets and small plazas.

This neighborhood hosts many great museums, but these two are the highlights:

• Museu Picasso displays Picasso’s early work and his link to Barcelona.
• Moco Museum offers modern and street art, including pieces by Banksy and Warhol.

Take your time to wander nearby shops and cafés between visits.

💡Tip: Book tickets online early to skip the queues.

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 2.5 hours. Enough for one museum, a relaxed stroll, and a coffee break.

2. Stroll from Arc de Triomf to Ciutadella Park

It’s a short walk from El Born to the red brick Arc de Triomf, built for the 1888 Universal Exhibition.

This lively spot often hosts markets, festivals, and street performers.

Walk through the Arc and into Ciutadella Park. You’ll find the impressive Cascada fountain, a peaceful lake with rowboats, and shady paths to explore.

💡Tip: Grab snacks before you enter. The park has few food options but plenty of nice picnic spots.

🕒 Time needed: 1 to 2 hours. Enough for a relaxed walk and some photos.

3. Discover Catalonia’s Past in Barceloneta

Next, head to Barceloneta. Skip the beach and visit the waterfront Museu d’Història de Catalunya instead.

The interactive and fun history museum is tucked in the Palau de Mar by the sea. It covers Catalonia’s story from Roman times to today’s independence movements.

After exploring the exhibits, head up to the rooftop terrace for great views of Port Vell and the marina.

🕒 Time needed: 1.5 to 2 hours. Enough time for the museum and to enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere.

4. Visit the Maritime Museum of Barcelona

A short walk from Barceloneta, near the bottom of La Rambla, is the Museu Marítim de Barcelona.

It’s set in the old royal shipyards, built in the 13th century, with huge stone arches and vaulted ceilings. Inside, you’ll find model ships, navigation tools, and stories of Barcelona’s seafaring history.

The highlight is the full-size replica of a 16th-century royal galley. You can walk on deck and see the museum from above.

🍴 The museum’s cafeteria is a budget-friendly and quick option for lunch. If you’re not in a hurry, head to the nearby Buenissimo for the best burgers and craft beer in town.

💡Tip: Your ticket also lets you board the Pailebot Santa Eulàlia, a historic schooner docked nearby.

🕒 Time needed: 2 to 2.5 hours. Enough to explore the museum and the ship.

5. Finish at the Wax Museum on La Rambla

End your 10 days in Barcelona by crossing La Rambla to the Barcelona Wax Museum, hidden inside a 19th-century palace with a slightly eerie feel.

Inside, explore rooms full of wax figures. You’ll meet everyone from famous faces to local legends. Some look very real, others are a bit quirky.

Afterwards, stop by El Bosc de les Fades next door. This forest-themed bar feels like a fairy tale and is perfect for a last drink before ending your Barcelona trip.

🕒 Time needed: Around 2 hours. Enough time to enjoy the museum, take some fun photos, and relax with a drink.

Where to Stay in Barcelona for 10 Days

When you’ve got a full 10 days in Barcelona, comfort and location matter a lot. You’ll want a base that lets you explore all corners of the city without spending half your time on the metro.

These three spots offer great comfort for every travel style. Plus, they’re all perfectly placed for optimal exploration.

🛏️ Catalonia Passeig de Gràcia

A sleek, stylish hotel just steps from Plaça Catalunya. You’re right by Gaudí landmarks, top shopping streets, and easy transport links. Yet, the vibe inside is calm and polished. With a rooftop pool, cozy rooms, and great service, it’s a perfect home base if you want modern comfort in the city center.

🛏️ Hotel Neri

Hidden inside a quiet Gothic Quarter square, Hotel Neri feels like a secret retreat. The stone walls and romantic balconies give it an old-soul charm. The interiors are all modern elegance. It’s ideal if you love boutique stays with character. Plus, you’ll be just minutes from El Born, the cathedral, and the waterfront.

🛏️ Hotel Lloret Ramblas

For easy access everywhere, this one’s hard to beat. It’s simple, central, and surprisingly quiet for a spot right on La Rambla. If you’re planning to spend most of your time out exploring and just need a clean, comfy place to crash, this budget-friendly pick gets the job done without draining your travel funds.

Insider Tips for Your 10 Days in Barcelona

💡 Book key attractions early. Popular spots like Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the Picasso Museum fill up fast. Get your tickets in advance so you’re not stuck with odd hours — or worse, no ticket.

💡 Get the Barcelona Card. It covers unlimited public transport and gives you free or discounted entry to museums, attractions, and tours. If visiting Barcelona for 10 days and planning to hit a lot of sights, it can save you both time and money.

💡 Choose solid shoes over stylish ones. Barcelona’s streets can be tough on your feet, with uneven stones, steep hills, and long distances between stops. Your feet will thank you if you skip the sandals and go for something supportive.

💡 Bring layers. Barcelona’s weather can shift fast. It’s often sunny in the morning, breezy by late afternoon. A light jacket or scarf helps you stay comfortable. In summer, don’t forget sun protection, even in the city.

💡 Don’t try to do everything. Ten days give you time to slow down. Leave space for a long lunch, a beach nap, or a detour through a side street.

💡 Be smart with your stuff in busy spots. Places like La Rambla and the metro can get crowded, and pickpockets know it. Keep your phone out of back pockets, zip your bag, and carry it in front when it’s packed.

💡 Dine early if you hate waiting. Locals eat late, around 2 PM for lunch and 9 PM or later for dinner. Go earlier and you’ll often get a table without the rush.

💡 Tuck a snack and a water bottle in your bag. Some cafés and shops close in the late afternoon, so it helps to carry water and a bite just in case hunger strikes between meals.

💡 Take a beach break mid-trip. After days of walking, a slow afternoon by the sea is the perfect reset.

FAQs About the Best 10 Days in Barcelona Itinerary

Is 10 days too much for Barcelona?

Not at all. Ten days in Barcelona give you time to see the famous landmarks, explore different neighborhoods, try local food, and still take a few day trips without rushing. Most travelers wish they had more time, not less, in a beautiful and diverse city like Barcelona.

How many days should you be in Barcelona?

If you just want the highlights, 3 to 5 days works. But if you want to really get to know the city, dive into local life, and explore beyond the center, 7 to 10 days in Barcelona is ideal.

Can I do Barcelona and day trips in the same itinerary?

Yes. This 10-day Barcelona itinerary includes built-in time for top day trips like Montserrat, Sitges, or even a quick hop into France and Andorra. You’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy Barcelona itself.

Now You’re Ready to Discover Barcelona in 10 Days

And that’s your full guide to 10 days in Barcelona, packed with landmarks, local gems, coastlines, and day trips that are worth taking.

You’ve got a clear plan that mixes big sights with quieter moments, busy days with slower ones, and enough flexibility to make it your own.

Whether you’re here to check off the icons or soak up the city vibe, this 10 days in Barcelona itinerary gives you the structure without the stress.

No rushing.

No backtracking.

Just a smooth, well-paced trip through one of Europe’s most fun, beautiful, and walkable cities.