In this part, I share what’s sights in Barcelona are worth seeing if you enjoy the quiet grandeur of religious spaces — along with a few extra ideas to round out your itinerary.

In the previous posts, I cover how to plan a trip to Barcelona, where to stay, and how to navigate the city by public transport. I also explore art and architecture highlights. Catch up with them too.

Barcelona Travel Series – Part 3 | Reading time: 1 minute

Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar

Santa Maria del Mar is an outstanding example of 14th-century Catalan Gothic architecture. It was built entirely with donations from local sailors and merchants, giving it a deep connection to the city’s maritime history and spirit.

Fun fact: Unlike many medieval churches that took centuries to complete, this basilica was finished in just 55 years.

That rare architectural unity gives it a harmony often missing from Gothic buildings. Some of the stained-glass windows were added later, especially after a devastating fire during the Spanish Civil War that burned for eleven days.

https://www.tiktok.com/@placescases/video/7519513213730360578

Tip: Climb to the rooftop. You’ll get sweeping views over the sea, Montjuïc, and the rooftops of the old city.

Barcelona Cathedral

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia sits at the heart of the Gothic Quarter. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, it’s dedicated to the city’s patron saint — the young martyr Saint Eulalia.

Fun fact: The cathedral’s cloister is home to 13 white geese — one for each year of Eulalia’s life, according to legend.

https://www.tiktok.com/@placescases/video/7522801109484702978

Carrer del Bisbe и Pont del Bisbe

As you step outside, take a moment to notice the neighborhood surrounding the basilica and the little street behind it. This is Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, and the street is called Carrer del Bisbe (Bishop’s Street).

Pay attention to the neo-Gothic footbridge known as Pont del Bisbe (Bishop’s Bridge). Its purpose is to connect two historic buildings. It was built in 1928 by architect Joan Rubió i Bellver, a student of Antoni Gaudí. Although it looks medieval, it’s actually relatively new and part of the effort to revive the Gothic style during the restoration of the quarter.

Fun fact: A popular urban legend says that if you walk under the bridge and touch the skeleton with a dagger carved into the underside of the balustrade, it will bring bad luck. That’s why many locals avoid looking up when passing beneath it.

Beyond the Churches: A Look at Montjuïc

If you head up Montjuïc Hill, you’ll discover a different kind of peace and inspiration. You can get there by cable car from the port. At the top, you’ll find castles, botanical gardens, panoramic viewpoints, and shaded paths — perfect for a walk, especially on a cooler day.

For Kids (and the Young at Heart): The Barcelona Aquarium

One of the best places to visit with children is the Barcelona Aquarium, located by the harbor. With its glass tunnels and diverse marine life, it’s a magical experience even for adults. Sharks, exotic fish, and underwater wonders swim just inches above your head.

Where to Stay in the city of Barcelona?

I recommend booking your stay directly here. For your convenience, I’ve included a map box showing available rooms in hotels, apartments, and other accommodations. You support the blog at no extra cost and still get all your Genius and other discounts!

Personal recommendation: Leonardo Royal Hotel Fira – a business hotel with a rooftop pool, located in a more peripheral district near administrative buildings and the exhibition center. The word Fira means “fair” in Catalan.

Although it’s not in the city center, the area is well connected to the main tourist attractions via public transport.

You can read more in the post: “Leonardo Royal Fira – Business Hotel with Rooftop Pool in a Peripheral Neighborhood of Barcelona.”

How to get to all these places?

I’ve created a special map just for you, where I’ve marked all the locations mentioned in this 6-part travelogue. You can easily use it to navigate your way to them.

Follow the blog and my social channels Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, X, TikTok so you don’t miss the next post, where I’ll share advice on what not to do in Barcelona — and what to watch out for as a visitor. These are details you won’t often find in a travel guide.