Serving as the capital of Catalonia, one of the autonomous regions in Spain, Barcelona is a city steeped in art, culture, history, and romance. It’s a cultural hub close to the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea. A Barcelona honeymoon offers the perfect backdrop for an ultra-romantic getaway with your new spouse.
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Is Barcelona a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
As one of Europe’s most romantic cities, Barcelona sets the stage for an unforgettable post-nuptial vacation. Its magic and charm lie in its mix of breathtaking architecture, great outdoor spaces, and excellent cuisine.
Whether you want to embark on cultural sightseeing, try adventurous outings, or enjoy a glass of wine (or cava!) while watching the sunset by the beach — this honeymoon destination is an ideal choice. Its welcoming people will make the experience even more memorable.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Barcelona?
- See art masterpieces in person. Barcelona’s art scene is one of its most beloved aspects. If you want to see works from Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, and other Spanish artists, hit the city’s museums. Picasso Museum, Joan Miró, Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, and Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art are some of the best art hubs to visit.
- Admire architectural gems. Antoni Gaudi, the most famous architect the city has produced, is the brilliant mind behind some of the best structures in Barcelona: La Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, and Park Guell. Apart from Gaudi’s opuses, you can check out the Barcelona Cathedral, the Palau de la Música Catalana, and The National Palace of Catalonia.
- Enjoy magnificent views of the city. Park Guell is a popular park with lush greenery, beautiful mosaics, and caves where couples can enjoy quality time. Its terrace is one of the best places to see panoramic views of Barcelona.
- Explore Las Ramblas. Las Ramblas is an iconic thoroughfare from Port Vell to Placa Catalunya. It’s celebrated for its lively ambiance, captivating flamenco performances, human statues, trendy cafes, and dining options.
- Relax at Barceloneta Beach. Want to unwind and soak up the sun? Barceloneta Beach boasts golden sands and turquoise waters where you can take refreshing dips and enjoy beachside activities.
- Dive into the city’s colorful nightlife. Visit a rooftop bar or terrace and enjoy stunning views, pulsating music, and, most importantly, great drinks. Port Olympic, Gothic Quarter, and El Raval are the best places for nightlife.
- Make day trips. Go beyond Barcelona for a richer experience. Travel to San Sebastian and explore its beaches; to Figueres and be immersed in the surreal world of Salvador Dali at the Dali Museum; to Stiges for a charming coastal town experience; and to Montserrat for exquisite wine tours.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Barcelona?
The ideal months to visit Barcelona are May to June and September to October. These fall outside the peak travel period (from July to August) and offer temperate and pleasant weather.
Is a Honeymoon in Barcelona Expensive?
For a one-week honeymoon in Barcelona, you should allocate a budget of $2,000 to $3,000. Plan to spend at least $6,000 if you aim for a luxurious experience.
How To Plan a Budget Barcelona Honeymoon
- Travel during the abovementioned shoulder months.
- Opt for affordable lodging, or stay outside the city center, where rates are generally lower.
- Utilize Barcelona’s public transportation.
- Buy food at local markets and eat where most locals grab their food.
- Check which attractions offer free visits.
- Take free walking tours. Many reputable businesses offer tours of the Gothic Quarter and Gaudi’s works.
- Enjoy street performances.
7 Best Areas to Stay In Barcelona
El Born
Want to have a glimpse of Barcelona’s culturally rich past? El Born is the area to stay. It has a medieval atmosphere, thanks to its winding narrow streets and well-preserved buildings. To get a closer look at essential artworks, visit the famous Picasso Museum and the Santa Maria del Mar Basilica (known for its ornate stained glass). Its old market now houses El Born Cultural and Memorial Center.
If you want to be surrounded by greenery, head to Ciutadella Park. Meanwhile, Arc de Triomf is another architectural wonder to behold. El Born is near Barceloneta Beach, so if you want to spend a day sunbathing and swimming, you’ll have a fantastic place to do it.
El Raval
El Raval is another cool neighborhood to be in. If you want to taste the city’s incredible gastronomics, you won’t be disappointed by this area’s selection of cafes and restaurants. The best places to visit for a great culinary experience are the La Boqueria Market along La Rambla and Rambla del Raval.
If you and your new spouse are particularly art enthusiasts, you’ll have a memorable time exploring the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art and Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona. Another work of art to admire is the Palau Guell, which is considered the first actual commission of Gaudi.
Eixample
L’eixample is also an excellent choice for a Barcelona honeymoon base if you want to be immersed in the city’s stunning architecture. It’s home to Gaudi’s most known works, including Sagrada Familia and Casa Mila.
This neighborhood is split into two sections, with Passeig de Gracia as the dividing line. This bustling thoroughfare is your gateway to Placa Catalunya, which brims with boutiques, restaurants, and bars. If you want to do more shopping, visit the Mercat Els Encants, a flea market where you can find unique antiques.
Gracia
Gracia is a former independent entity outside Barcelona. Today, it’s a bustling neighborhood that serves as a melting pot for the creative and the free-spirited. This area offers something for every type of couple. It has hip cafes, vintage boutiques, art galleries, and arthouse cinemas. Gaudi’s stellar architectural creations, such as Casa Vicens and Park Guell, add a touch of sophistication.
Head to Plaça de la Vila de Gracia, the original town square, to learn more about its exciting history. Plaça de la Virreina is also a beautiful square to explore and people-watch. If you’re visiting in August, don’t forget to participate in the Festa Major de Gracia.
Gothic Quarter
Characterized by narrow streets and trendy establishments, the Gothic Quarter serves as the historic heart of the old city of Barcelona. El Call, the city’s old Jewish quarter, is one of the most historic and beautiful areas.
In this neighborhood, you can also find one of Gaudi’s first projects: the Placa Reial. To travel back in time by way of food, include Can Culleretes in your itinerary. First established in 1786, it’s hailed as the city’s oldest restaurant.
Barceloneta
Carefree sunny days await you in Barceloneta. It’s a strategic place to be if you want to experience the waters of Barcelona. At Barceloneta Beach, you can soak up the sun to your heart’s content — just be ready to be in the company of a vast crowd (this beach is that popular). Sant Sebastià Beach, a neighboring nudist beach, is another option. Offering a Mediterranean ambiance, it’s a good spot to surf and sunbathe.
Additionally, you can stroll around the Port Olimpic complex and enjoy beach views and luxurious yachts. If you want to see unparalleled vistas of the city, hop on the Port Cable Car, whose endpoint is the iconic Montjuic Hill.
Montjuic
A former fortress, this hill is a neighborhood located in the southwest of El Raval. Montjuic literally means “Jew’s Hill” or “Jewish Mountain,” and it’s the second-highest mountain in Barcelona at 173 meters above sea level.
Apart from the historic castle on this hill, you must also visit the Joan Miro Foundation, which has thousands of works from the celebrated Spanish artist. Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya is another art institution to visit. Meanwhile, Poble Espanyol is an excellent place to explore, as it has many artisan shops, bars, restaurants, and flamenco tablaos.
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Barcelona?
Your Barcelona honeymoon is within easy reach from the US, as many operators offer direct flights to the Barcelona-El Prat Airport. If you’re in the middle of your Spain honeymoon and coming from other renowned cities like Madrid, consider taking a high-speed train.
Traveling Within Barcelona
You and your loved one can rely on the city’s metro, trams, and buses to get around Barcelona. They also offer city and suburban rail services to help you reach your destination. Consider taking a taxi or renting a private vehicle if you prefer convenience.
What Types of Accommodations Are Available in Barcelona?
One of the best things about Barcelona is the wide-ranging options for lodging. Whether you’re looking for a boutique hotel or a luxurious one, a cheaper hostel or bed and breakfast, or traditional and unique rental properties — the city has something for you.
You can also find hotel offers that appeal to couples seeking a honeymoon package. Some of the most known honeymoon hotels in the city are Mandarin Oriental and Serras.
What Type of Food Should You Try in Barcelona?
- Tapas. These small dishes serve as appetizers and are best paired with sangria, a cocktail originating in Spain. Tapas range from fried potatoes with tomato sauce to bread with tomato and olive oil.
- Paella. This traditional rice dish is cooked with vegetables, meat, and seafood. It’s originally from another Spanish city: Valencia.
- Croquettes. Crispy and bursting in flavor, this dish features a mixture of mashed potato, ham, and bechamel sauce. Each croquette is coated in breadcrumbs and then fried.
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include in a Barcelona Honeymoon?
Newlyweds can enjoy various cultural adventures in Barcelona. Apart from free walking tours, you should also have a food and winery tour. This will help you familiarize yourself with the city’s bustling gastronomy culture.
For a history tour, consider taking Gaudi, Barcelona Civil War, or Jewish Quarter tours.
Also, consider taking advantage of Catalan language classes. If you’re into dancing, why not take flamenco classes?
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Barcelona
The city has a generally casual vibe, but it’s important to pack clothes that balance comfort and style. You don’t want to be underdressed when visiting towering architectural marvels. You must also opt for breathable fabric to keep you comfortable. A reliable pair of walking shoes is also essential.
When enjoying Barcelona’s nightlife, prepare dressier outfits. Be sure to bring light layers for cooler evenings as well. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock to protect yourselves from the sun.
Is Barcelona Safe to Visit?
Barcelona is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe and one of the safest. However, you must still exercise caution for the best honeymoon experience possible. Keep the following tips in mind:
- Tourists are targets of snatchers and pickpocketers. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring crowded areas or taking public transportation.
- Only use licensed taxis.
- Be cautious of scams and street vendors selling fake commodities.
- While Barcelona has a thriving night scene, be careful when wandering around at night. Stay in well-lit areas and avoid certain areas like El Raval and southern Las Ramblas.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Barcelona?
For a romantic getaway in Barcelona, US couples don’t need to get a visa. They can stay for up to 90 days.
Bonus Barcelona Honeymoon Travel Tips
- Tap water, including the public drinking fountains in Barcelona, is safe.
- Tipping isn’t required but is always welcome and appreciated.
- The currency accepted in Barcelona is the Euro. As of writing, $1 is about €0.94.
- The official languages are Catalan and Spanish. However, many locals speak English.