If you love the beach and the delicious Mediterranean food, then you are going to have the time of your life in Barcelona. It doesn’t matter if you are a history nerd or a party freak, the city will give you abundant of memories. Let’s get started and have an offbeat trip to this majestic Spanish city. So Muslim travellers… what to do in Barcelona?
Barcelona landmarks
Basilica of the Sagrada Familia
You got to start your trip by visiting this iconic Spanish landmark. It is one of the most astonishing structures in the world. The construction of the church started in 1882 and it is yet to be completed. Though, you should try to book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in queues.
Bogatell Beach
Most of the tourists visit the heavily crowded Barceloneta beach. Though Bogatell beach is not just a cleaner and less crowded version of it, it is also the city’s best-kept secret. It is the beach where the locals go to and have a great time with their friends and family. Simply sip your favourite drink while listening to the sound of the waves here.
Park Guell
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was created by Antoni Gaudi, one of the most renowned Spanish architects. The site consists of incredible sculptures and structures of various kinds. Stay there for a while to get an amazing view of the city.
Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
Simply sit nearby the “magic” foundation of Montjuïc and witness a spectacular view of changing colours and music. It is one of the best ways to end a hectic day. Make a wish here and it might come true! Some of the other famous places that you can visit are Picasso Museum, El Born, Jaldi Botanic, Casa Battlo, La Boqueria, Parc de la Ciutadella, and a lot more.
Places to eat
La Barca del Salamanca is one of the best places to eat modern renditions of traditional Spanish cuisine – try patatas bravas, Padron peppers and paella! The rule of thumb is to take anything vegetarian and seafood-based as just a few restaurants offer halal meat (though some upscale places can modify the dishes to be halal with a prior order).
Zinbar, Spice Bcn, Rajah, Rangoli and Omeia are a few other popular local places to eat. If you want to eat something light, then pay The Benedict cafe a visit. It is Barcelona’s favourite brunch spot!
Muslim-friendly hotels in Barcelona
If you want to stay in a budget-friendly place, then opt for staying in a hostel. There are countless of hostels in Barcelona that cost as little as $10-15 a night. If your budget is more flexible, then we suggest staying in halal-friendly hotels in Barcelona.
P/S Explore Barcelona, Madrid and Lisbon with this 7D5N Spain Itinerary.
Mosques in Barcelona
The most famous mosque in Barcelona is Masjid Tarek Ibn Ziyad.
A few last tips
1) Try to taste the local Spanish cuisine. Ditch the overly crowded tourist hubs and visit the local restaurants instead. Be sure that the place serves Halal food, you can always ask before ordering.
2) Spanish mealtime can be confusing to any visitors. Lunch is served from 1-4 pm while dinner is timed between 8-11 pm. Most of the restaurants remain closed from 4-8 pm (and Sundays as well).
3) Barcelona has a pretty extensive metro system which is both cheap and safe. It runs till midnight on weekdays and all night long on weekends.
4) Colette, Heritage, and The English Cut (El Corte Inglés) are some of the best places to shop.
5) If you don’t want to board the metro, rent a bicycle. It is one of the best (and cheapest) ways to get around.
6) Lastly, whatever you plan to do in Barcelona, make sure you have fun. Lots of fun!
Enjoyed this brief guide to what to do in Barcelona?
Let us know in the comments! If you are visiting Spain, visit our Spain country guide for Muslim travellers. Those who prefer to have all the travel arrangements are taken care of instead, visit our website for more info that includes a visit to Casablanca, Fes, Marrakech, Cordoba and Granada, among others, with an experienced guide. While the standard tour package doesn’t include a stop in Barcelona, drop us a message and we will arrange a customized tour for you!