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Introduction
Barcelona is one of the most Instagrammable cities in Europe with its stunning architecture, beaches, parks and vibrant culture. From Antoni Gaudí’s surreal buildings to the Gothic Quarter’s cobblestone streets, there’s no shortage of picture-perfect spots to capture unique photos for the ‘gram.
This guide covers some of the top Instagram hot spots to visit in Barcelona that are sure to impress your followers and rack up the likes. Whether you’re looking for colorful facades, panoramic city views, artsy alleyways or beachy backdrops, Barcelona has it all. Read on for the best instagrammable spots in Barcelona.
Park Güell
Park Güell is one of Barcelona’s most iconic and Instagrammable spots. Designed by famous architect Antoni Gaudí, this UNESCO World Heritage site features vibrant mosaics, colorful tiles, and whimsical architectural elements.
The park is set on Carmel Hill and offers spectacular panoramic views over the city. One of the main attractions is the long mosaic bench that snakes along the edge of the terrace. This is a perfect photo opportunity, allowing you to capture the bench’s colorful design with the cityscape in the background.
Another Instagram hot spot is the main entrance to the park, which has two gingerbread-house-style buildings covered in mosaics of flowers and shapes in every color imaginable. The buildings flank a grand staircase leading up to a tiled plaza surrounded by columns that resemble tree trunks.
In addition to the architectural details, the park’s gardens and winding pathways lined with palm trees provide endless picturesque backdrops. Park Güell is a feast for the eyes, making it a must-visit destination for Instagrammers looking to capture unique and artsy photos in Barcelona. This is one of the best instagrammable spots in Barcelona.
Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any first-time visitor. Designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, construction on this massive Roman Catholic church began in 1882 and remarkably is still not finished to this day.
The unfinished, eclectic exterior features towering spires that reach towards the heavens. The tallest spire will top out at 566 feet when complete, making the Sagrada Familia the tallest church building in the world. The elaborate facades depict ornate religious imagery and scenes from the Bible. Gaudí took inspiration from nature, evidenced by the tree-like columns branching upwards.
When you step inside, you’ll be amazed by the kaleidoscopic stained glass windows and extremely high vaulted ceilings. The interior almost feels like a forest, with columns styled like trees supporting the soaring arches. The brilliant colors from the stained glass windows bathe the space in an ethereal light.
Getting tickets in advance is highly recommended, as wait times can be hours long otherwise. For the best experience, splurge on access to the towers for panoramic views over Barcelona. Marvel at Gaudí’s grand vision up close during your visit to the iconic Sagrada Familia.
Plan Your Stay
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Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is one of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous works in Barcelona. Located on Passeig de Gràcia, this building is known for its unique and colorful undulating facade that looks like waves in the ocean.
Gaudi redesigned the exterior and interior between 1904-1906 for the Batlló family. He replaced the original facade with his signature organic style, using colors and shapes found in nature. The “bones” of the building are stone and brick, and Gaudi added the mosaic tile finishes in green, blue and ochre hues to create the wavy effect.
The wave-like appearance comes from the stone balconies that twist and curve around the outside of the building. The roofline also undulates and has colorful mosaic-tiled chimney stacks that look like creatures from the deep sea.
Inside, Gaudi used natural light to illuminate the spaces. He also incorporated surprising architectural elements like the skeletal interior courtyard draped with a colorful glass ceiling and the spiral staircase that looks like the spine of a mythical creature.
Casa Batlló demonstrates Gaudi’s incredible creativity and showcases his unique, nature-inspired architectural style. It’s a must-see when visiting Barcelona. The facade alone makes it an Instagram-worthy and iconic landmark.
Casa Milà
Known as La Pedrera (the stone quarry), Casa Milà is one of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous works in Barcelona. This apartment building was constructed between 1906 and 1912 with a stunning curved facade made of stone.
Gaudí was given complete creative freedom on the project by the Milà family who commissioned it. He took the opportunity to experiment with innovative architectural techniques, designing the building without any straight lines. The undulating stone exterior resembles waves on the sea and earned the building the nickname “the stone quarry.”
Inside, Gaudí created an equally remarkable space. The apartment interiors have curved walls and creative architectural elements like mushroom-shaped chimneys. On the roof, Gaudí added surreal chimneys and sculptures that look like warriors.
Today Casa Milà is open to visitors who can explore the imaginative apartments as well as the rooftop, which provides panoramic views over Barcelona. The building’s fluid design makes it one of the most instagrammable spots in the city. It’s especially photogenic at night when the stone facade is illuminated.
Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Barcelona. Located in the heart of the city, it contains a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets and medieval buildings that will transport you back in time.
As you wander the atmospheric alleys, you’ll discover Roman ruins, grand plazas, and the magnificent Barcelona Cathedral. The Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia, was constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries in the Gothic style. Its towering spires, gargoyles, and ornate details make it a striking backdrop for photos.
In addition to the Cathedral, the Gothic Quarter is home to many other historic sites like the Roman Temple of Augustus and the Plaça del Rei square, part of the Palau Reial complex. The square features palm trees, fountains, and intricate lampposts that add old-world charm.
For Instagram-worthy photos, head to the picturesque Carrer del Bisbe bridge. The single-arch bridge connects the Gothic Quarter to La Ribera neighborhood over a small canal. Capture the bridge’s graceful lines and reflections in the water below.
No trip to the Gothic Quarter is complete without simply getting lost in its maze of atmospheric alleys and hidden corners. Let your camera guide you to the most photogenic spots while soaking in the medieval atmosphere. With its timeless beauty and romantic charm, the Gothic Quarter is one of Barcelona’s most Instagrammable destinations.
Barceloneta Beach
Barceloneta Beach is one of Barcelona’s most famous and picturesque urban beaches. Located in the lively Barceloneta neighborhood, it stretches for over 1 kilometer along the coastline.
The beach is lined with golden sand and features rows of palm trees, creating a tropical vibe unusual for a city beach. Gentle waves lap at the shore as you gaze out over the glittering Mediterranean Sea. In the background, you can see some of Barcelona’s iconic buildings like the W Hotel which tops the list for the the best instagrammable spots in Barcelona.
Barceloneta Beach is a hub of activity, especially in summer. Sunbathers stretch out on towels to work on their tans. Children build sandcastles and splash in the shallow waters. Volleyball and soccer games take place on the sand. Surfers ride the small waves, while stand-up paddleboarders gracefully glide across the surface.
The beach is conveniently located near many shops, restaurants, and bars. After a swim, head to one of the chiringuitos (beach bars) along the promenade for tapas, sangria and people-watching. The soft sand, swaying palms, and sweeping city views make Barceloneta Beach one of Barcelona’s top spots for Instagram-worthy photos. It’s a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike.
Montjuïc
Montjuïc is a large hill overlooking Barcelona that offers some of the best views of the city. At the top you’ll find extensive gardens, museums, and attractions.
The most iconic spot is the Montjuïc Magic Fountain (Font Màgica) which puts on an incredible music, light, and water show on summer nights. The fountain features intricate choreography with jets of water shooting as high as 70 meters in the air, all perfectly timed to music. Seeing the colorful fountain illuminated at night with the city in the background is an unforgettable experience.
In addition to the fountain, Montjuïc’s sprawling gardens are a highlight. Jardins de Joan Brossa and Jardins de Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer offer lush greenery and tranquil walking paths with more excellent views over the city and harbor. The botanic garden Jardí Botànic de Barcelona is also located here with over 40,000 plants.
With its vantage point over Barcelona, hilltop location, and magical fountain shows, Montjuïc is one of the most photogenic and Instagrammable spots in the city. It’s a must-visit, especially at night when the Magic Fountain is running. Grab your Montjuïc Cable Car tickets here.
Rooftop Bars
Rooftop bars are some of the most Instagrammable spots in Barcelona for stunning city views while enjoying a drink. With panoramic vistas of Barcelona’s skyline, iconic architecture, and the Mediterranean sea beyond, these sky-high bars are the perfect place for sunset drinks.
Some of the top rooftop bars include:
- La Isabela at Hotel 1898 – This sophisticated rooftop bar sits atop the Hotel 1898 right near La Rambla. Enjoy 360 degree views of the city while sipping cocktails next to the small pool.
- Mirablau – Located near the Tibidabo mountain, this bar offers breathtaking views over the city and coastline. The ideal spot for sunset drinks as the city lights up at dusk.
- Hotel ME – This rooftop bar has a gorgeous pool and upbeat music. Enjoy the night under the stars with glittering city views all around.
- Eclipse Bar at W Hotel – Dramatic views over the sea from this ultra-modern bar atop the sail-shaped W Hotel. Sit out on the terrace for sunset while sipping creative cocktails.
- La Caseta del Migdia – An open-air terrace bar nestled in the Montjuic gardens with panoramic views over the city, port, and sea. Relax amidst the greenery during the day or stay for evening drinks as the lights sparkle below.
No matter where you choose, Barcelona’s rooftop bars let you soak in the city’s beauty over drinks in the sky. Just don’t forget your camera for those Instagram-worthy views.
Why You Should Consider Hiring a Local Photographer for a Photoshoot in Barcelona
Barcelona is brimming with breathtaking spots perfect for capturing unforgettable photos, from the enchanting Parc Güell to the historic charm of the Gothic Quarter. Hiring a local photographer not only elevates your experience but also ensures you capture the city’s hidden gems with an insider’s eye. These professionals know the best angles, lighting, and times of day to snap those picture-perfect shots, helping you create memories that authentically reflect Barcelona’s essence. Plus, you can leave the technicalities to the expert and simply enjoy soaking in this vibrant city!
Conclusion
Barcelona is a city full of visually stunning architecture, colorful neighborhoods, and picturesque parks, making it a top destination for Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. From Gaudi’s fantastical buildings like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell to the beachside neighborhood of Barceloneta, there are countless places to capture unique and artistic photos. The Gothic Quarter’s narrow alleys and historic buildings provide the perfect Old World backdrop, while the hilltop views from Montjuïc showcase the cityscape. Rooftop bars also offer elevated vantage points for panoramic photos. With its vibrant culture and variety of photogenic locales, Barcelona has secured its place as one of Europe’s most Instagrammable cities. Visitors looking to fill their Instagram feeds with eye-catching content will find no shortage of inspiring backdrops across this iconic Spanish city.
FAQs: Photography Spots in Barcelona
Where do influencers go in Barcelona?
Influencers in Barcelona often frequent popular landmarks, trendy cafes, and scenic viewpoints to capture stunning photos for their social media channels. Some places where influencers may be spotted in Barcelona include:
- Park Güell: Known for its colorful mosaic tiles, whimsical architecture, and panoramic views of the city.
- La Boqueria Market: A vibrant and bustling market with colorful stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
- El Born neighborhood: A trendy area with narrow streets, boutique shops, and charming cafes perfect for capturing the essence of Barcelona’s hipster scene.
- Barceloneta Beach: An iconic spot for sunbathing, people-watching, and snapping photos of the Mediterranean Sea and beachgoers.
- Rooftop bars: Trendy rooftop bars and terraces offer stunning views of the city skyline, making them popular spots for influencer photoshoots.
Where is the Instagrammable spot in the Gothic quarter of Barcelona?
The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) of Barcelona is filled with picturesque alleys, historic buildings, and hidden squares that provide plenty of Instagrammable opportunities. One particularly photogenic spot in the Gothic Quarter is Plaça Sant Felip Neri, a charming square with a tranquil atmosphere, a beautiful fountain, and the historic Sant Felip Neri Church as a backdrop. The narrow alleys and medieval architecture of the surrounding streets also offer plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Where to take pictures in Barcelona?
Barcelona offers numerous photogenic locations for capturing memorable photos. Some popular photography spots in Barcelona include:
- Sagrada Família: Gaudí’s iconic masterpiece with its intricate facades, towering spires, and stunning stained glass windows.
- Park Güell: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring colorful mosaic tiles, whimsical architecture, and panoramic views of the city.
- Montjuïc Hill: A scenic hilltop offering panoramic views of Barcelona, as well as picturesque gardens, fountains, and cultural attractions such as the Montjuïc Castle and the Magic Fountain.
- Barceloneta Beach: Capture photos of the golden sands, turquoise waters, and bustling promenade of Barcelona’s most famous beach.
- Bunkers del Carmel: A former military bunker offering panoramic views of Barcelona’s skyline, including the Sagrada Família, Tibidabo, and the Mediterranean Sea.
Where is the best place to take pictures of the Sagrada Família?
One of the best places to take pictures of the Sagrada Família is from the Plaça de Gaudí, located directly in front of the basilica. This spacious square provides an unobstructed view of the Sagrada Família’s impressive facade, allowing you to capture the full grandeur of Gaudí’s masterpiece. Additionally, the nearby Avinguda de Gaudí offers another vantage point for capturing stunning photos of the basilica’s intricate details and soaring spires against the Barcelona skyline.
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