What should you do in Catalonia?
A trip to Catalonia takes you to the beautiful north-east of Spain. One highlight is of course Barcelona: the vibrant metropolis captivates travelers with its special flair and unique architecture, which is characterized by the works of Gaudí, such as the Sagrada Família or Casa Batlló. Take a stroll through the old Barri Gótic district to discover Barcelona's one-of-a-kind history. However, Catalonia has much more to offer than just Barcelona. There are great beaches, the iconic Dalí Museum or the Montserrat Monastery, which is located in a breathtaking mountain landscape.
Sagrada Família
The unique work of the visionary Dalí
Barri Gotic
Immerse yourself in the history of Barcelona
Casa Batlló
A house as a work of art
Top attractions on your Catalonia itinerary
Sagrada Família
No trip to Catalonia is complete without visiting Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Família. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, this masterpiece captivates with its soaring columns, intricate stained glass, and extraordinary blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau influences. Construction began in 1882 and continues to this day.
View more details
Barri Gòtic
Barcelona’s Barri Gòtic, or Gothic Quarter, is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, where winding alleys reveal centuries of history. Many buildings date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, while remnants of the Roman Empire still remain. A private guided tour offers a deeper look into this historic district, which is also known for its vibrant dining and boutique shopping scene.
Casa Batlló
Built between 1904 and 1906, Casa Batlló is one of Gaudí’s most distinctive works. Often called the “House of Bones” for its skeletal columns, the building’s colorful facade depicts the legend of Saint George — the rooftop represents dragon scales, and the cross symbolizes the knight’s lance. Step inside to explore undulating walls and uniquely designed furnishings on a private tour.
Dalí Museum
Located in Figueres, Salvador Dalí’s birthplace, the Dalí Theatre-Museum offers an extraordinary collection of his work. Built on the site of the former city theater, which was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War, the museum showcases paintings, holographic art, jewelry, and more. Dalí himself is buried in a crypt beneath the museum.
Monastery of Montserrat
Perched over 2,200 feet above sea level, the Benedictine Monastery of Montserrat sits on the uniquely jagged Montserrat mountain. Accessible by cable car or bus, it’s one of Catalonia’s most significant pilgrimage sites, home to the revered “Black Madonna.” The monastery’s museum features works by masters such as Monet, Dalí, and El Greco, all set against breathtaking natural scenery.
Practical information for your trip
The most important airports in Catalonia are Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) and Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO). Reus Airport (REU) is also a smaller airport near Tarragona and is mainly used by low-cost airlines.
The ideal time to visit Catalonia is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds make for a more relaxed travel experience compared to the busy summer months.
