Barcelona Solo Travel Guide: How to Have More Fun Alone

Easily one of the most visited cities in the world, Barcelona is home to an array of amazing attractions that will leave your jaw permanently on the floor – especially if you Barcelona solo travel.

I mean, how could you not be awed by the blue waters of the Mediterranean, the stunning modern architecture, the delish food, the medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, and the cool shops of Gracia?

So, it’s no small wonder that Barcelona is popular as a vibrant travel destination among couples, friends, families, and solo travelers alike.

But, before you visit you might want to know certain things about solo traveling in Barcelona. Like, is it safe? Is it expensive? Will you be able to meet people?

Well, I am gonna answer all these questions and more in this guide to solo travel in Barcelona.

Not only have I been a solo traveler in Barcelona MANY times, but I have been solo traveling for well over 20 years.

So, I know exactly what you need to know before planning a solo trip to Barcelona. And I am about to reveal all my super secret tips right now!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Should You Travel Alone to Barcelona?

Yes, a thousand times yes! I loved traveling solo in Barcelona. There are so many things to do that I never once felt lonely.

I also had no problem meeting people since I based myself in a great Barcelona backpacking hostel that offered a lot of fun group activities.

That being said, I think your experience traveling solo in Barcelona will be different if this is your first solo trip versus if this is your 100th solo trip.

So, while people new to solo traveling will enjoy Barcelona, you will need to be extra cautious when it comes to pickpockets.

They are everywhere in the city. It would also be worth it to stay at a social hostel. This way you can meet people at group outings and don’t have to worry about loneliness.

Plus, friends can help you watch out for pickpockets who frequent touristy areas.

I would suggest staying in a centrally located hostel so that you are not spending your entire 3 days in Barcelona riding on the metro.

However, if you’re an experienced solo traveler then try staying in a more residential, non-touristy area so that you can fully immerse yourself in Catalan culture.

The Gracia neighborhood is great and is home to many hidden gems in Barcelona, as well as epic bakeries and tapas bars.

Why You Should Solo Travel Barcelona

There are many amazing reasons why Barcelona is great for solo travelers. I mean, I could literally write a book about the subject.

However, some reasons you might enjoy Barcelona solo travel are:

• English is Widely Spoken – If you don’t speak Catalan, don’t worry because plenty of people in Barcelona speak English. Just try and learn a few phrases in Catalan but Barcelona is used to tourists.

• Tapas Culture Makes Dining Alone Easy – You can easily dine alone and try a whole bunch of small plates without feeling uncomfortable. Lots of people also dine alone in this casual bar atmosphere so you feel way more comfortable going out to eat alone.

• Well-Connected to the Rest of Spain – If you plan to solo travel Spain after Barcelona then you’ll love that the city is well-connected by bus, plane, and train to other parts of the country (and Europe).

• You Won’t Feel Lonely With So Many Things to Do – Between visiting Parc Guell, La Sagrada Familia, Barceloneta Beach, and the Picasso Museum, you won’t have time to feel lonely!

• Great Infrastructure for Tourists – There are signs everywhere so you won’t have to worry about getting lost while trying to find La Sagrada Familia. The metro is also easy to use and features a ton of signage.

• Enjoy Fun Day Trips – You can enjoy loads of awesome, and super easy day trips from Barcelona. These include Girona, Figueres, Montserrat Monastery, Costa Brava, and more.

• Great Accommodations for Solo Travelers – Barcelona has lots of awesome hostels where you can meet fellow travelers who also want to explore the city. You can even book a private room at a hostel. This way you can get a good night’s sleep and still enjoy the social atmosphere of a hostel.

• Free Things to Do – There are tons of free things to do in Barcelona that will help you stay within your budget.

Safety Tips for Traveling Solo in Barcelona

I had my wallet stolen when I was walking to the metro in Barcelona. So, safety is real a concern when traveling alone to Barcelona.

That being said, you won’t have to worry about violent crimes since Barcelona is a safe city. Rather, petty theft is the real issue when traveling solo to Barcelona.

In fact, many thieves like to grab your stuff right as the metro doors close so that you can’t chase after them.

So, never leave your belongings unattended or put anything valuable in your pockets. Areas like Las Ramblas and La Boqueria are filled with them so be extra careful.

Always make sure that your valuables are safe/secure and locked up as you walk around the city.

I would also only pack what you need for the day in your day bag.

This way, if your money does get stolen, you still have cash/credit cards back at the hotel that you can use until you get everything sorted out.

I would also always put your valuables in a safe instead of leaving them lying around the hostel.

How to Get Around Barcelona Alone

Barcelona is an easy city to navigate on your own. After all, the metro has a ton of signage and is very extensive. Therefore, if you can’t walk or bike somewhere, you should be able to use the metro.

The metro also isn’t super complicated. So, even if you are new to international travel you should have zero problems figuring it out.

Now, if you are staying in Barcelona for 3+ days, definitely get the T-Casual ticket. It includes ten rides on the metro and is a lot cheaper than purchasing individual tickets.

That being said, I enjoyed walking around Barcelona solo. It’s a really pretty city and I enjoyed walking through El Born, the Gothic Quarter, and alone La Barceloneta.

Where to Stay in Barcelona Alone

One of the many things I love about this city is there are a ton of awesome, super-social Barcelona hostels that you can stay in when traveling solo to Barcelona.

• The Central House Barcelona Gracia – The Central House is a super posh place to stay in Barcelona. It still has a social vibe and is a great place to meet people. I love that it feels more like a boutique hotel than a hostel. It’s also near the Diagonal Metro Station and offers beds with lights, outlets, curtains, lockers, NICE pillows, and a blanket. Book now for an epic night’s sleep!

• Yeah Barcelona Hostel – This hostel is just a 10-minute walk from La Sagrada Familia. The bunk beds are also awesome and include privacy curtains. All the dorms also have their own bathrooms and a buffet breakfast is served each morning. There’s also a nightly communal dinner/on-site bar where you can meet people. Yup, this is an epic hostel for solo traveling in Barcelona.

• Casa Gracia – This modern hostel is well-located on Passeig de Gràcia and features rooms with excellent wifi/AC. You can also book one of their daily walking tours of the city before spending the night in a shared/private room or apartment. There’s even a communal terrace, a lounge, a kitchen, a dining area, and a 24-hour front desk.

• Jacob’s Inn – Just an 8-minute walk from Mar Bella Beach, Jacob’s Inn is a good place to go if you want well-priced rooms and a nice breakfast. Beds also feature linens as well as a privacy curtain and a personal light. There’s even a tour desk and luggage storage for your belongings.

Pro Tip: My fave place on this list for solo travelers in Barcelona is Yeah Barcelona Hostel. This hostel is well-located, the atmosphere is safe/social, beds are well-priced, and the buffet breakfast is on point.

What to Pack for Barcelona Solo Travel

My number one tip for traveling solo to Barcelona would be don’t overpack! It is easy to do but this major city will have everything you need should you forget something.

Plus, if you pack light, you won’t have to worry about excess baggage fees or the airline losing your luggage if travel carry-on.

• Adapter – Anyone from the US/UK/Canada will need a travel adapter to charge their electronics. I travel all the time so I have a universal adapter. It’s compact and includes outlets every part of the world.

• Pacsafe Bag – I bought mine right after my solo trip to Barcelona and have never looked back. There are lots of extra closures and the material is slash-proof. Plus, the bag is durable and has lasted well over three years with daily use.

• Portable Power Bank – You’re gonna take a ton of videos and photos. So, be sure to have a rechargeable power back to recharge your phone while you’re on the go.

• Barcelona Guidebook/Spanish or Catalan Phrasebook – I personally just use blogs. But, I know a lot of people like to have a guidebook to help them make the most of their trip. Just make sure the publishing date is recent since things change and you don’t want to go somewhere that is closed.

• Travel Insurance – You never know when you are gonna get hurt or injured. And if you don’t have insurance, those fees can add up quickly. So, give Safety Wing a try! They are a great company that I have used for years. Their rates also start at around $50.00 (USD) per month.

Best Things to do Alone in Barcelona

1. La Sagrada Familia

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (49518 Reviews) Price: $37.09 per person Duration: 1 day📍Meeting Point: Entrance to Sagrada Familia Operator: GetYourGuide Tours & Tickets GmbH Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Can you visit Barcelona without seeing La Sagrada Familia? The answer is no, always no. Because if you’re traveling to Barcelona alone and only see one thing, this has to be it.

And yes, La Sagrada Familia lives up to all the hype, and then some.

But I’ll admit it. When I first ascended the metro stairs (take metro Lines 2 or 5 to Sagrada Familia Station) and set eyes upon this architectural masterpiece, I was super disappointed.

Only later would I find out that the cranes and other, unattractive building instruments surrounding the church, were actually there because, after over 130 years,  the building is still unfinished.

And while the outside is impressive in scale and stature, you only experience the true beauty of this building once you step inside and see the pure awesomeness of Gaudi’s genius.

“It really helped to have the audio guide as we went through the church. It would have helped to have a map and clear instructions as to where to start and how to follow the numbers posted on the wall. We wandered around slightly lost outside the church until we happened to see numbers corresponding to our guide.”

Derina (read more reviews now)

Everywhere you turn, you’ll see vibrant facades that depict a multitude of religious motifs.

Add in some swirling lines and bulging towers, inspired by the irregularities of nature, and you get a modernist masterpiece that is perfect for Barcelona solo travelers.

Yeah you’re not really supposed to talk inside a church anyway. So, it’s not like you’ll miss having a travel buddy.

So even if you hate churches, you’ll love this one. Because between the building’s color scheme, creativity, and modernity, this place really is unlike any building that I have ever seen.

But, if you’re planning to visit La Sagrada Familia, I highly recommend purchase a ticke in advance.

Not only will you avoid a long queue, but if you book an audio tour you’ll get a better understanding and appreciation for the architectural beauty that you are looking at.

2. Park Güell

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5.0 (36,431 Reviews) Price: $14.26 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Parc Guell Operator: GetYourGuide Tours & Tickets GmbH Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

This sprawling, urban center of nature, is where Gaudí experimented in the art of landscape gardening; creating a unique green space that enchants the mind and intrigues the senses.

Somehow, Gaudi’s passion for natural forms transforms the artificial into something more natural than anything actually found in nature.

“My experience was amazing! I was so impressed to see how Bonita the park is. It is a place I would recommend anyone who is coming to visit Barcelona. Be prepared to walk about 20 minutes to get to the park entrance. It depends on which metro and bus you take to get to the entrance. Wear comfortable shoes.”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

The park is also heavily wooded, with intimate pathways that connect you to a multitude of buildings and museums that are worth a visiting, making Park Güell one of the best things to do in Barcelona alone.

Highlights as you Barcelona solo travel include Turó del Calvari for the best views of Barcelona, the Centre d’Interpretaciò in the Pavelló de Consergeria (porter’s house with exhibitions), Sala Hipóstila (a Doric temple with 88 stone columns), Casa-Museu Gaudí (Gaudí final home), and more.

Plus, if you’re nervous about eating alone in Barcelona, you can pack a picnic and eat amidst the gorgeous views from Parc Guell.

Also, per usual, book your tickets well in advance to avoid long lines with you solo travel Barcelona.

3. La Pedrera (AKA Casa Milà)

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (9408 Reviews) Price: $30.72 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: La Pedrera Colosseo 24 Operator: Casa Milà – La Pedrera Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

As you emerge from the Diagonal metro station, La Pedrera will appear to undulate, like a series of waves lapping up against the shore.

Upon closer inspection, this combined apartment and office building is yet another optical illusion of that architectural trickster, Gaudi.

Formally known as Casa Milà, after the businessman who commissioned the building, this top Barcelona attraction is now known as La Pedrera.

After all, the rippling, grey, stone facade of the building resembles a rock quarry more than it does the dignified office and home of a Spanish Aristocrat.

Today, the top-floor apartment, attic, and roof is open to visitors. Personally, though, my favorite part is the roof.

“It was amazing to see the rooms with the actual furniture and daily items that would have been used by the people occupying the Casa Mila in those days. The display of the miniature of the building on the top floor and basis for Gaudi’s architecture and designs were really well done. Would recommend taking the elevator for those who don’t normally climb lots of stairs.”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

It features awe-inspiring chimney stacks that resemble medieval, multi-colored knights, who appear to be warding off some unknown, invisible foe.

There is also an enchanting room, near the edge of the roof that contains a light and a small water fountain, both of which create a mesmerizing cascade of light that dances across the room’s interior.

So, be sure not to miss this when you solo travel Barcelona.

Once you’ve finished exploring the roof, go downstairs and enter a museum which will give you a better understanding of who Gaudi is and why he has this insane affinity for parabolic arches.

The next floor down is an apartment that contains the furnishings of a well-to do, Spanish family in the 20th century.

Again, this is one of the best things to do alone in Barcelona that is MEGA popular. So, book your tickets well in advance.

4. Casa Batlló

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (7862 Reviews) Price: $38.40 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Pg. de Gràcia, 41, L’Eixample, 08007 Barcelona Operator: Casa Batllo SLU Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

This residential building, designed by Gaudi obviously, stands out because it mimics a sensational, aquatic hallucination, with explosions of blue, mauve, and green tiles along the exterior.

Wave-shaped window frames and balconies compliment this ocean-like motif, as the entire structure rises to an uneven, blue-tiled roof.

“The architecture was amazing…I’ve never been in a building like it! The only downside was the extra cost to enter the furnished apartments. The price was already quite high so it surprised me that they wanted even more money. However the audioguide was fab and defo worth getting – it really brought the house to life and explained Gaudi’s vision well.”

Louise (read more reviews now)

Inside the building, you’ll see light shimmer against the many, deep sea blue tiles, complemented by a staircase that winds you up and around to the main floor, to a salon that overlooks the streets below.

Swirls or blue and green mesmerize you as everything twists into a sunlike lamp; an aesthetic that makes it appear as though the entire room is being sucked into a giant ball of light.

Pretty cool right? Yeah, that’s why Casa Batlló gets REALLY crowded. Like, you and a hundred of your closest friends packed in one room crowded.

Therefore, buy your tickets online to avoid long lines or tickets selling out.

5. Museu Picasso

⭐️ Rating: 4.2/5.0 (78 Reviews) Price: $31.72 per person Duration: 1 hour 📍Meeting Point: See tour Operator: WeGoTrip Inc. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Just looking at the exterior of the building, with it’s five contiguous medieval stone mansions, you get the sense that the Museu Picasso is something special that deserves to be noticed.

And it is. Between the scenic courtyards,  open galleries, and ornate staircases, this building is as interesting as the art collection inside.

“This was a good experience for an overview of the Picasso Museum. It covers the main points, but there is also much more to be discovered. While the audio tour took about an hour, we found ourselves spending an additional one and 1/2 hours. The technology worked well for our family of 5. Good value for the money and day before purchase of tickets.”

Kristin (read more reviews now)

However, the art collection here does contain some of Picasso’s best work from his formative years. So, don’t be disappointed if you don’t see his later, more famous works.

If nothing else, you’ll leave with a better appreciation of Picasso’s unique style and his never-ending search for innovative forms of artistic, self-expression.

Pro Tip: The museum’s permanent collection is housed in Palau Aguilar, Palau del Baró de Castellet and Palau Mecca, while the temporary exhibits are kept in The Casa Mauri and the Palau Finestres.

6. La Catedral

Now is this church Sagrada Familia?

No. It’s definitely has a more classical style that is less innovative than La Sagrada Familia. But, it’s still worth a look so that you can admire the stunning neo-gothic architecture of the exterior.

So, you’ll see a lot of domed ceilings, giant pillars, and a cloister with palm trees/orange trees/geese.

As you solo travel Barcelona, aim to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it is FREE!

Afterward, visit the suoer charming, medieval Barri Gòtic quarter that this museum is housed in. There are some cool bars and shops here.

7. Las Ramblas

Word of warning, Las Rambla is crowded and touristy, with people constantly in your face who are trying to get you to buy something or go somewhere.

It’s also one of the most popular places in Barcelona. So, it’s brimming over with tourists and isn’t super cultural.

However, it is a fully pedestrianized street where you can walk and admire all the shops as you travel Barcelona alone.

So, take a stroll down this tree-lined, pedestrian highway and enjoy a nice 1.2-kilometer walk through the heart of Barcelona.

8. Montjuic

Montjuic is a famous hill in Barcelona that is home to a wide variety of things to do. You could start by taking a cable car up to Montjuic Castle.

Take in some of the best views in Barcelona before visiting the site of the former Olympics and checking out the Joan Miro Foundation.

Learn about one of Catalonia’s most famous artists before watching a fun show at the Magic Fountain.

It’s right near Plaça Espanya and features several 15-minute shows that are held Thursday through Sunday in the summer and Friday/Saturday in the winter.

The water and lights will go crazy while some epic pop tunes play in the background. It’s nothing masterful but just a whole lot of fun.

9. Enjoy Catalan Cuisine

Barcelona has no shortage of restaurants that have done an exceptional job of recreating traditional, Catalan cuisine, with a distinctive, modern twist.

In fact, eateries throughout the city have reinvented such classic dishes as Pa amb tomaquèt (bread with tomato on top), Canelons (pasta roll stuffed with codfish/minced meat/spinach), Escudella (sausage, pasta, and vegetable stew), and more.

So, meander around Barcelona and discover some modern interpretations of Catalan classics.

Restaurants like Moments, Cera 23, and Tickets Bar are all great examples of cuisine in Barcelona done right.

But what if you if feel awkward about dining alone in Barcelona? Not to worry because Paco Meralgo and La Taverna de Clinic are two great places for dining alone in Barcelona.

Just sit at the bar and you’ll feel a bit less awkward about eating tapas alone as you Barcelona solo travel.

Another option for dining alone in Barcelona is to eat at one of the city’s many food markets!

Not only do you get a taste of local Catalan culture, but dining alone at a market is never awkward since you can either eat on the go or take your food with you back to your hotel.

Some of my favorite food markets in Barcelona are Mercat de la Boqueria, Mercat de Sant Antoni, Mercat de Santa Caterina, and Mercat de Sant Andreu.

10. Palau de la Música Catalana

This concert hall is known for its nightly flamenco performances and its unique Modernist architecture.

In fact, when you first see Palau de la Música Catalan, you’ll be amazed by the building’s principal facade.

It has a series of mosaics, floral capitals, and sculptures that come together to create an exceptionally beautiful representation of Catalan music.

As you enter the main foyer, you’ll be wowed by an assortment of tiled pillars and a richly colored auditorium that is adorned with blue-and-gold stained glass.

The ceiling sparkles from above as it reflects the sunlight shining through the skylight. It’s a great place to take in a show.

Best Things to Do in Barcelona Alone Map

Barcelona Solo Travel FAQs

Is Barcelona Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Yes, Barcelona is super safe for solo female travelers. It’s a vibrant, vivacious city where you can enjoy cool architecture and meet people when you visit epic bars and amazing clubs.

Is Barcelona Good for Solo Travel?

Barcelona is great for solo travel! Not only are there a ton of great things to do alone in Barcelona, but it is a safe city.

Just watch out for pickpockets on the metro and in touristy areas and you should be just fine.

Is Madrid or Barcelona Better for Solo Travel?

Madrid and Barcelona are both great places for solo travel. Both feature a ton of amazing things to do and have many affordable places to stay if you are traveling on a budget.

I prefer Barcelona solo travel since I find the city to be a bit more social and an easier place to meet people.

What are the Best Bars in Barcelona for Solo Travelers?

The best bars in Barcelona for solo travelers are Eclipse Barcelona, Opium, Pacha Barcelona, and Razzmatazz. These places are super fun and offer you the opportunity to meet locals and tourists.

How Many Days Do You Need in Barcelona for the First Time?

If you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time I recommend spending at least four days in the city. This way you can see all the major Barcelona attractions and some Barcelona hidden gems without feeling rushed.

That wraps up this guide to Barcelona solo travel.

Did your fave things to do alone in Barcelona make the list? If not then let me know now.

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to join our Facebook group and email list for even more expert travel tips.