Are you looking for the ultimate destination for a weekend getaway with friends? Look no further than Barcelona! With its stunning architecture, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife, Barcelona has everything you need for an unforgettable trip. Here’s how to have the perfect girls weekend in Barcelona.
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As someone who lives in Spain, I’ve been fortunate enough to not only have come here a number of times but have actually had my own amazing weekend getaways with friends to the city. So I’m thrilled to be able to share this tried and tested itinerary with you!
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in history, relax on the beach, indulge in delicious food and drinks, or dance the night away, the Catalan capital has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.
Table of Contents
The Ultimate Itinerary for a Girls Weekend in Barcelona
Day 1: A Taste of Barcelona’s Charm
Get ready, as we’re kicking off our weekend getaway with an action-packed first day!
Morning
Ah, the excitement of landing in a new city with your friends. After arriving in Barcelona, dash over to your cozy accommodation to quickly drop off those bags. Freshen up and get ready to seize the day, because the vibrant city awaits!
Hotels We Recommend in Barcelona
- Majestic Hotel & Spa – 5* hotel near La Rambla and Gaudi sites, rooftop restaurant, bar, and pool
- Hotel Arts – 5* resort on the beach, gorgeous spa and great city views
- Seventy Barcelona – close to Casa Mila and Passeig de Gràcia, indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
- H10 Metropolitan – near Plaça Catalunya with rooftop bar and pool.
Now, let’s talk about the most important meal of the day: brunch. Barcelona’s brunch scene has really come alive in recent years, so it’s time for you to take advantage of this exploding new aspect of the city.
Saunter over to one of the trendy cafes, where the scent of fresh coffee and the sight of colorful plates is pure bliss. I recommend trying pan con tomate (bread with tomato) or perhaps a Spanish omelet, paired with some freshly squeezed orange juice.
Full and satisfied, it’s time to stretch those legs. Take a leisurely stroll down La Rambla, Barcelona’s famed pedestrian street. This bustling boulevard is lined with shops, cafes, and the glorious La Boqueria Market.
As the most famous market in Barcelona, make sure to give yourself time to properly wander through this market.
You’ll witness a rainbow of fresh fruits, gourmet treats (cheese and olives, anyone?), and possibly the most Instagrammable vegetable arrangements you’ve ever seen!
Afternoon
Post-Ramblas, let’s get a little medieval by wandering into the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic).
This place is like stepping into a history book with a touch of fairy dust. The narrow, cobblestone streets of Barcelona’s Old Town wind through centuries-old buildings and quaint squares that seem to whisper tales of the past. Every corner here begs for a group photo!
Head to Plaça del Rei, where you’ll find a stunning medieval square surrounded by regal buildings. If the walls could talk, they’d tell you tales of knights and aristocrats.
Now, it’s time for the majestic Barcelona Cathedral. Take a moment to appreciate its intricate façade. The stunning stained glass windows and high vaulted ceilings inside will leave you breathless. If you’re feeling up for it, ascend to the rooftop for a sweeping view of the city – it’s like being on top of an ancient world.
Next, Picasso is waiting! The Picasso Museum in Barcelona is home to an extensive collection of the artist’s work. Don’t miss the ‘Las Meninas’ series, where Picasso’s ingenuity reimagines Velázquez’s masterpiece. This place is a creative soul’s paradise.
You may also need to keep an eye on the clock to see if you have enough time in the end for the Picasso Museum – if you can, great! And if you can’t, guess you’ll just have to plan a follow up trip to Barcelona!
Plan your lunch time wisely
It’s also worth keeping in mind that lunch is the biggest meal of the day in Spain, with the Gothic Quarter being dotted with incredible lunch spots. Lingering over a paella (and some amazing wine, of course) is a great way to spend the first lunch of your weekend getaway.
Take note as well that Spaniards eat lunch later than most other countries, with many lunch places not opening until 2pm at the very earliest (and many don’t start to fill up until well after 3pm).
If you need a snack to help you last until then, pop into any of the incredible tapas joints you see in your wanderings.
Evening
As the sun starts to set, our appetites are just warming up. El Born neighborhood is calling you with its enchanting streets and cozy restaurants.
El Born is a trendy neighborhood in Barcelona, known for its tapas bars and boutique shops. It’s also home to the stunning Santa Maria del Mar church and the Picasso Museum.
If you can, I’d recommend taking a stroll through the winding streets to soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant neighborhood.
Once you’re done exploring, grab a seat at a tapas bar and relish in traditional Spanish cuisine. From patatas bravas to gambas al ajillo, don’t forget to share plates and stories amongst friends. Pair these delights with a glass of red Rioja or a frosty Clara (beer mixed with lemon soda), and you’ve got magic on a table.
And when you’re done eating…is it even a trip to Barcelona if you don’t dip your toes into the nightlife? This city knows how to party! Whether you’re in the mood for laid-back vibes or all-out dancing, Barcelona has it all. Explore areas like El Raval, Gràcia, or Port Olímpic for endless options.
Take a sip of local cava, embrace some vermouth or groove to the music at one of the hundreds of bars and clubs you’ll find around the city – tonight, we celebrate Barcelona style, which has something for everyone.
And that wraps up an unforgettable day one. Rest up because tomorrow, the adventure continues!
Day 2: Gaudí Galore and Beach Bliss!
Good morning, adventurers! Day 2 is here, so grab your shades and let’s uncover the wonders of Antoni Gaudí and the delights of the Mediterranean Sea. ¡Vamos!
Morning
Parc Guell
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast because we’re starting the day in the fantasy world of Park Güell. This public park is Gaudí’s playground, with colorful mosaics and undulating structures that seem to be plucked from a dream.
Make sure you climb up to the terrace for a panoramic view of Barcelona with the iconic serpentine bench. It’s selfie heaven!
Sagrada Familia
Next, we’re off to Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s unfinished symphony. Opt for a guided tour to fully grasp the history and symbolism behind this architectural marvel.
The forest-like columns and the play of light through the stained glass windows offers a quintessential blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, creating an architectural language that feels like poetry.
(Make sure you book a tour in advance as they regularly sell out, especially on weekends.)
Afternoon
Here comes the classic dilemma: beach bum or culture vulture? You decide!
Option 1: Beach It Up
Craving the sea? Barcelona’s beaches are definitely calling your name.
Head to Barceloneta for lunch. Stop in to Can Maño, a no-frills seafood haven. Order the fried anchovies or the grilled squid, and let the flavors of the ocean dance on your palate.
Post-lunch, it’s beach time! At Barceloneta Beach, dip your toes in the Mediterranean, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try paddle boarding.
If you prefer a quieter ambiance, Nova Icaria Beach is your go-to. Either way, the sand is soft and the waves are inviting.
Option 2: All About the Culture
For the explorers at heart, let’s venture into the neighborhood of Gràcia. This bohemian paradise is home to tree-lined squares and an artsy crowd.
The Mercat de l’Abaceria is a treasure trove of local products – I’d definitely recommend sampling some Catalan cheese at the very least!
The Gaudí journey continues on Passeig de Gràcia. At Casa Batlló, observe how the façade resembles a dragon’s scales. Meanwhile, Casa Milà (La Pedrera) boasts undulating walls and sculpted chimneys that seem to narrate tales of the sea.
Evening
As dusk adorns the city, it’s time to dive into the culinary potpourri of El Raval. This neighborhood is a melting pot of cultures. Head to Bar Cañete for modern Catalan cuisine, or Wok to Walk if you’re craving Asian flavors. Mix and match, the world’s your oyster!
With content bellies, let’s amble along the Port Vell waterfront promenade. The sea breeze, the yachts, and the twinkling lights create a symphony of serenity. Share stories, laugh, and make promises to do this again.
What’s that? The night’s not over! Elevate the evening, quite literally, at a rooftop bar (my pick is Sky Bar at Grand Hotel Central).
Sip a signature cocktail as you toast to an unforgettable day and to friendships that make life beautiful – and don’t forget to take the opportunity to plan your next trip – a weekend in Barcelona!
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About the author: Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire visitors to explore Spain like a local. Now living in Valencia, Anna’s made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country – with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!