Barcelona, a sprawling city in the Catalonia region of Spain, offers everything from gourmet dining, architecture and a classic beach holiday. It’s a city with a lot to offer and my recent trip with Jet2 uncovered some new gems that I’m going to share with you too.
Fly to Barcelona with Jet2
Getting to Barcelona is quick and easy. If you follow the itinerary we took, book flights from Manchester Airport; 8am flight out and a 12:30pm flight back gives you 3 days and a lazy breakfast before heading back to El Prat. The airport is 15km from the city and you can get the train, bus or taxi.
Flights are available year round, so if you want to avoid the summer heat, opt for an autumnal break, or visit in spring. I don’t know about the Christmas markets there, but if you’ve been for this, leave some thoughts in the comments.
Where to stay?
We stayed at H10 Marina Barcelona, which was ideally located. Less than 15 minutes walk from the beach (quicker if you run down, like I did) close to the metro and within walking distance to key attractions like La Sagrada Familia too. Check out Jet2Holidays and browse a selection of hotels in Barcelona.
H10 Marina Barcelona had all the essential requirements for me for a city break. The spacious, airy rooms with huge windows and a seriously comfy bed. The shower was good and I liked the touch of the toiletries available too, handy if you’ve forgotten a toothbrush (which has happened to me in the past) and don’t realise until bedtime! The restaurant offers a great breakfast buffet, plus five different fruit juices – the important details here! Then the best to last, the rooftop pool and terrace. There’s also a gym room, plus spa facilities which I’m a little sad I didn’t have time to use!
What do I need to see?
Chances are if you’ve landed on this post, you’re either planning your first visit to Barcelona or you’re looking for some of the less touristy spots. I’ve got suggestions for both.
If it’s your first time visiting Barcelona, then I recommend the following itinerary:
- La Sagrada Familia
- La Rambla is a lively tree-lined pedestrian street. It is very touristy, so I’d recommend keeping belongings safe and if you want snacks/drinks, go to La Boqueria.
- Parc Guell – Tickets are required for Parc Guell with slots available from 9am to 7:30pm, but once you’re in you can stay as long as you like until closing (which is 10pm in the summer)
- Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria – marvel at the fresh food and take in the smells and sights in the most famous Barcelona market.
- Casa Batllo or Casa Mila – You could visit one or more of the Gaudi buildings but if you’re pushed for time then they’re impressive enough to walk past and appreciate. I’d favour Parc Guell over the casas if you’re trying to decide.
If you’ve been before, why not check out Montserrat? This hilltop monastery boasts stunning views and gets you away from the bustling city and out in nature. There’s hikes up here or a funicular if you want to take in the views but save your legs. Due to the location, the weather can be changeable here (it’s a mountain) so be prepared. You can book Montserrat tours with Castle Tours, the one we did involved wine tasting too (at a castle) which was so fun. Alternatively, hire a car or take public transport.
Whether you’re a Barcelona novice or an expert, a great way to see the city is through a tapas and wine tour. We went along to one on our first evening which took us to four different spots around the Gothic Quarter. I definitely left well fed (and wined).
Bonus tip here – check out one of the many rooftop bars in the city. Sercotel Rosselon offers a fantastic view of La Sagrada Familia, but another nice one is Hotel Pulitzer, see my section on drinks with a view, further down this post. If you want to see more behind the scenes (and more food and drink photos) then check out my instagram highlight on @tashajsteel.
Where to eat?
Well this is a fantastic question and the short answer is; so many places! I’ve narrowed this down to three places we visited during our visit. Though you do have the bonus option of the tapas and wine tour, that’s a great way to sample some of the local delicacies.
El Tribut
This restaurant offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Catalan dishes. The space is stunning, with warm friendly service, truly fantastic food and it’s somewhere you can enjoy a slower meal, taking in the views with the turquoise sea lapping the sandy shoreline.
Try the anchovies, croquettes, burrata with sweet potato. Then treat yourself to any of the main dishes.
Fonda Pepa
This charming, cosy restaurant in Gracia is immediately welcoming. Sit out on the patio at the back in the summer months, or cosy up at a table inside. They offer traditional recipes with a modern twist.
Try the ceviche and the lamb. You honestly can’t go wrong with any of the dishes on their menu.
Babula
This restaurant in Eixample boasts a strong cocktail menu and some tasty tapas to pair perfectly.
Try everything – but especially the eggplant (aubergine) dish, what a triumph. The Catalan cheesecake is a delightful way to round off the meal and the added drama of the blowtorch is fun.
Fancy a drink with a view?
Rooftop bars are everywhere in European cities and are often popular. Barcelona is no different! If you want to visit Sercotel Rosellon for example, you need a reservation. Some might let you walk up, but to avoid disappointment, always check and book in advance.
Need a caffeine fix?
Check our Warung for the smoothest flat white and it was £2.61 which is just unbelievable value.
Don’t expect to see the whole city in 72 hours. It’s worth picking a few places, exploring them and booking a return trip. Just don’t leave it 9 years like I did. Go browse Jet2holidays for city breaks to Barcelona and get booked up!
There’s Jet2 flights to Barcelona taking off from Newcastle in May 2026 and I must say, I’m very tempted to book a return trip, or check out the options for Jet2CityBreaks. Have you been to Barcelona?
Looking for some further travel inspo? Why not check out this Halkidiki blog post?
This was a press trip with Jet2, though all thoughts are my own.
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