Barcelona in Three Days: From Beaches to Basilicas on a Solo Trip

Sunshine, seafood, and the sound of waves — Barcelona has its own rhythm, and travelling solo made me tune into it even more.

Day 1

 I started the trip the way any solo traveller should — by getting a little lost. Barceloneta Beach was the perfect place to land, with its breezy sea air and muscular locals using the beachfront gym like it was a stage. I wandered past four of those pastel-coloured blocks you see all over Instagram and watched the light change with the waves.

Later, I tried a highly rated seafront restaurant. Let’s just say the first meal didn’t go so well — bravas with overly creamy sauces and strong lamb flavours just weren’t my thing. But I reminded myself that solo travel is about trying, not perfecting.

Day 2

 Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) was my first proper stop. If you’re into old-school drama — wide-brimmed hats, velvet capes, and religious symbolism — this place delivers. I recommend getting the audio guide. And yes, the toilets are open to the public. You're welcome.

Lunch was at Taperia Princesa near the museum, with roasted aubergine and broken eggs — nothing fancy, but honestly delicious.

Later, I headed up to Tibidabo Mountain, which involved metro changes, a free shuttle, and a bus that felt like it might fall off the hill. Bring a jacket — the church at the top can get surprisingly chilly.

Day 3

 The Gothic Quarter and La Rambla made the last day feel like walking through a film set. Gaudí’s buildings, street performers, and local scams (don’t flash your wallet) are all part of the experience.

Lunch was a bit of a gamble — some churros and hot chocolate at a place by the wall of kisses, then a Cantonese-style steamed soup at a food hall downtown. As a Brit raised on Chinese takeaways, it hit all the right notes.

Solo trips like this remind me how good it feels to walk a city at your own pace — no negotiations, no compromises. My expandable backpack carried just enough for all three days — light, neat, and never in the way.

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