Things To Do in Barcelona & Barcelona Airport Layover Ideas

BCN Barcelona International Airport is a main hub for Spanair and Vueling Airlines, and is located roughly 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) from Barcelona which makes the city an accessible destination for those stuck on long layovers.

Parc Guell

Another fantastic attraction of Barcelona, the Parc Guell was also designed by Gaudi. It’s a beautiful and intricate garden of stairs, sculptures and viaducts, and was named a monument of world interest by UNESCO (Bus 24, 25, 31, or 74. Metro; line 3. Lesseps Station, then follow the street signs.)

Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is in the center of old Barcelona and runs from the Placa de Catalunya, a squarein the center of the city full of shops and restaurants, down to the Columbus monument on the waterfront. Keep your guard up and bags and wallets close (especially when eating) as there are lots of pickpockets around.

Temple de la Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Familia, formally known as Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, is the work of surrealist architect Antonio Gaudi and a must-see in Barcelona. He was said to have spent 40 years building this structure and was considered his passion. (Metro: Line 2 or 5 Station: SagradaFamilia)

Casa Mila, La Pedrera

The Casa Mila was commissioned by Pere Mila and his wife, and built by Gaudí between 1906 and 1910. Temporary exhibits are regularly held on the first floor, the furnished apartment, and don’t miss the exquisite roof and views.

As always, make sure you leave plenty of time to get back to BCN Barcelona International Airport in time for your connecting flight and enjoy your transit city rather than whiling away the time leaning up against your backpack in the departures lounge.