Barcelona is not just an ancient city with centuries of history, it is also a popular cruise port in the Mediterranean. When taking a cruise day in this magnificent city, it can be daunting making the most of your limited time. To help you decide what to do during your stop, we’ve got a few iconic tourist destinations that are perfect for an afternoon stop. Here are our picks for the best attractions to visit during a cruise day in Barcelona.
Montjuïc Mountain
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Montjuïc, a broad hill overlooking Barcelona’s harbor, blends history and culture with sweeping views of the city. Crowned by the 17th–18th century Montjuïc Castle, it was transformed for the 1929 International Exposition, which left landmarks like the Palau Nacional—now the MNAC—and the Magic Fountain. This attraction enjoyed renewed fame during the 1992 Olympics with the popularity of venues such as the Olympic Stadium and Palau Sant Jordi. Visitors can wander botanical gardens, ride the funicular and cable car, and explore museums, including the Joan Miró Foundation.
Barceloneta Beach
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While it may seem a bit obvious, there’s nothing wrong with heading to the most popular beach of any major port city. For Barcelona, that would be Barceloneta Beach, right next to the old fishermen’s quarter. This is a major hub of activities and excitement for locals and tourists alike, with volleyball, paddleboarding, kayaking, and plenty of options for food and drink. Should you happen to be in Barcelona over night, this is also a great spot to experience the local nightlife, with plenty of places to grab a drink.
Port Vell
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Barcelona’s old working docks were transformed into a people‑friendly waterfront during the 1992 Olympic makeover, and now serves as a major tourist attraction. Here you will find the Barcelona Aquarium, famous for its 80 meter long shark tunnel, as well as the Maritime Museum in the medieval shipyards. There are plenty of opportunities to get some great photos here, especially if you are fortunate enough to be here at sunset. Grab a drink and a bite to eat at one of the waterfront terraces, then sit back and enjoy the view!
Montserrat Monastery
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The 11th‑century Benedictine abbey built right into the side of a mountain is a truly spectacular sight to see and well worth a visit for any tourists who are interested in history. The basilica enshrines a statue of Catalonia’s patroness La Moreneta, or Black Madonna, making this site a common pilgrimage stop. Being built into a mountain means there are also plenty of places for nature lovers, with trails and scenic panoramic views. The Monastery is about an hour’s drive from the cruise port, so you will have to get a taxi to get there, but it is well worth the additional travel time.
La Boqueria Market
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Whether you are looking to do some souvenir shopping, sample the local cuisine, or just interact with the culture of Barcelona, Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria is the place for you. Like much of Barcelona, this lively market with over 300 stalls is deeply tied to the history of the city, as it has been operating since the 13th century. Here you can pick up local produce, fresh seafood, Iberian hams, artisanal cheeses, spices, sweets, and fresh juices. Market bars also serve up drinks and tapas, so grab a bite to eat while you are here.
