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Are you heading to Barcelona and want to see some of the most picturesque spots in the city, as well as maximize your Instagram likes? Your followers are going to be green with envy after seeing some of these snaps. We’ve rounded up the best places to Instagram in Barcelona, from its vibrant markets, through to its winding streets, 19th-century specialty stores and its most photo-worthy food stops. We’ve also thrown in some photography tips. Happy snapping!
El Born
Explore the narrow, winding streets of the El Born neighborhood and you’ll be spoilt for choice with things to Instagram. The area was once a seaside vacation spot for the Medieval aristocracy, and it’s filled with eerie alleyways and historic buildings. The winding streets are packed with quaint cafes and bars perfect for an artsy snap. It’s worth bearing in mind that the best time to photograph Barcelona’s streets is in the morning or the evening before the sun is high in the sky and shadows are created from its tall buildings.
Raval
The Raval neighborhood has a controversial reputation, in the past, it was fairly seedy, however, today it’s known for its cool crowd and colorful graffiti splashed across shop door shutters. The graffiti designs are bright, some are political and others have an artistic message. It’s best explored in the morning before the shops have opened when the door shutters are still visible. Check out this popular Barcelona Street Art Instagram account to get some more ideas.
Gothic Quarter
Similar to El Born, the Gothic Quarter has narrow winding streets and centuries-old buildings. Its streets are packed with tiny cafes and bars, and you’re guaranteed to stumble across several picturesque squares. If you’re interested in architecture, check out Barcelona Facades Instagram page for some inspiration.
Passeig de Gracia
No round-up of the most Instagrammable places in Barcelona would be complete without mentioning the work of Antoni Gaudi. While Gaudi’s Sagrada de Familia is probably one of the most photographed sites in Barcelona, why not mix things up and impress your Instagram followers with some photos of the stunning Gaudi buildings on Passeig de Gracia. The Casa Batlló is a majestic building, built by Gaudi in 1904, and the La Pedrera building features a quirky sealife theme, with stunning, underwater-styled tile work and a wave-like exterior.
Food
Brunch & Cake
Arguably the most Instagrammable food you’ve ever seen, Brunch & Cake in the Eixample district is the picture-perfect brunch. Colorful, and artistically displayed plates include elegantly designed pancakes and granola served in a coconut bowl. It almost looks too good to eat!
Eyescream & Friends
An unforgettable ice cream experience (and definitely worthy of posting on your feed) can be found at Eyescream & Friends. The unique ice cream comes in a paper box and is a bed of shaved gelato, topped with googly eyes. It’s gimmicky, delicious and makes a great photo. The store is located in the Barceloneta neighborhood, near the sea, so why not scoop up your very own and walk along the water’s edge.
Mercado de La Boqueria
An explosion of colors, from tropical fruits to candy, to enormous legs of jam, there’s so much to see at Mercado de La Boqueria. These days it’s packed with tourists, so get there early and make the most of the photo opportunity.
Barceloneta Beach
Not many of us are lucky enough to live by a beach, so it’s no surprise scenic beach shots are some of the most popular things to Instagram in Barcelona. If you want to get off the beaten track and check out some other less crowded beaches in the area, check out the Best Beaches in Barcelona.
Casa Gispert
Walking into Casa Gispert is like taking a step back in time. It’s one of Barcelona’s oldest specialty stores, founded in 1851, and today very little has changed. The store specializes in selling overseas products and retains its 19th-century charm with a rustic interior and wicker baskets. Today it sells dried fruits, coffee, cocoa, spices, saffron, and many more. If you want to take a photo, you’ll need to ask very nicely for permission.
Antic Teatre
Antic Teatre is a former abandoned theatre that was renovated by a group of artists in 2003. The theatre retains much of its original charm and features a cool, shabby-chic design. It’s best known for its beautiful courtyard, with trees dotted around haphazardly and is the perfect place to unwind with a beer.
Hotels
There are some incredibly picturesque hotels in Barcelona, from opulent hotels housed in the buildings of former Catalan Bourgeoise families, through to hotels with beautiful, spiral staircases. Check out the Best Places to Stay in Barcelona for some inspiration.
Photography Tips
Photos are best taken in the morning, (7 am – 9 am) or at dusk (around 6 pm), which is when the light is softer and more atmospheric.
If you’re taking photos of the streets in Raval, the Gothic Quarter or El Born, take the photo from a lower angle to make the shot more dramatic.
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