This Gaudí-designed park isn’t just any old verdant space with trees. Park Güell is one of a kind, home to famous mosaic park benches, a whimsical “Gingerbread” house, and a massive, colorful lizard fountain. The park can get crowded, especially during peak times and dates, so to avoid the waits, consider a skip-the-line tour to see the park and learn about its unique history.

The Barcelona Cathedral inspires awe with its intricate Gothic interiors, neo-Gothic facade, and charming, palm tree-lined courtyard. Located in El Born district, the Santa Maria del Mar church is a 14th-century construction that was built by local residents, and is home to a famous rose window. For more about its renowned history, read the book, Cathedral of the Sea by Ildefonso Falcones, which will make your trip to Barcelona even more special.

Barcelona’s distinct neighborhoods are fun to roam on foot, from the elegant boulevards of the sophisticated Gràcia to the winding cobblestone alleyways and artisan workshops of the more bohemian El Born. Don’t miss the Gothic Quarter, home to the city’s former Jewish neighborhood and many of the best bars and restaurants, or the grittier El Raval’s street art and cultural centers.

Undoubtedly Barcelona’s most famous sight, this church has been under construction for more than 130 years, yet still remains unfinished. The most iconic of Antoní Gaudí’s works, the Sagrada Familia is a vision both inside and out, complete with mosaic tiling, colorful stained glass, and forest-inspired columns, ascending to a number of massive spires. Because the basilica is so impressive, waits can be long, so plan well in advance.

Gaudí’s footprint on Barcelona is undeniable, featuring churches, buildings, museums, and natural spaces. Along with the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, make sure to check out the Casa Mila, a Modernist building with rounded stone curves meant to emulate nature. There’s also the Casa Batlló, where the facade’s slender columns and reflective mosaic tiles feel inspired by fishbones. Both houses are located on the fancy Passeig de Gràcia, making it easy to visit them on foot or by bike.

There’s much to do and see on Barcelona’s most prominent hill: Montjuïc Mountain. Start by taking the Montjuïc Cable Car up high. Or, walk up from Plaça d'Espanya. Once there, you can explore the Montjuïc Castle (Castell de Montjuïc) or meander through the Montjuïc Park (Parc de Montjuïc). If the weather is hot, cool off with a visit to the Palau Nacional, home to Barcelona's National Museum of Art of Catalunya (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya).

Barcelona’s most famous market, La Boqueria, is housed in a famous iron market hall, home to all sorts of different kinds of local and international food. Located along Las Ramblas, one of the city’s most emblematic streets, the market is worth a visit, so come hungry. For a less touristy, more local market experience, visit Santa Caterina, housed in a colorful hall, which is home to all different kinds of regional produce and cuisine.

To take a break from sightseeing, Barcelona’s city beach, Barceloneta, is the ideal place to relax and rest your legs. Just keep an eye on your belongings because pickpocketing is common on this beach (and all around Barcelona in general). There are plenty of restaurants and bars along the beach, and you can enjoy the sandy shores by whizzing along the seafront via e-bike, scooter, bike, or even by boat in the warm Mediterranean waters.

Whether you’re in the market for touristy knickknacks, high-end designer digs, or just a new swimsuit from H&M, Passeig de Gràcia has it all. The long, elegant boulevard is lined with shops, hotels, restaurants, and even the two aforementioned houses designed by Antoní Gaudí, the Casa Mila and the Casa Batlló. Architecture fans can also admire the art nouveau and modernista buildings that line the street, characterized by ornate decor, curves over lines, and bold color palettes.

Fans of FC Barcelona or anyone who enjoys soccer should head to Camp Nou, the city’s famous football stadium. Over the years, this particular stadium has hosted historic events such as the FIFA World Cup, Champions Cup, and UEFA Champions League Finals. Camp Nou also has an on-site FC Barcelona Museum, which you can see on a guided tour of the stadium. Tours also include viewing the players’ tunnel, commentary boxes, and locker rooms.