Three Days Solo in Barcelona: A City of Sun, Art, and Caution
If there’s one thing Barcelona knows how to do well, it’s leave a mark—whether that’s from the sea breeze on your skin, or the quiet tap on your pocket from a street pickpocket. It’s vibrant, bold, chaotic in parts, and occasionally too charming for its own good.
Day 1 – Beach Breezes and Bravas Regret
I landed late morning and dropped my bag before heading straight to Barceloneta Beach. It was warm but not scorching, the sea breeze kept things fresh, and walking past beach gyms and volleyball courts gave me a dose of very toned local motivation.
I ate at a bar near the beach that had glowing Google reviews. Big mistake. It was the first time on this trip I couldn’t finish a meal. Something about the sauce—too creamy, too sheepy? I’m blaming myself and the algorithm equally.
Day 2 – Art, Architecture, and... That Toilet Situation
The Museu Picasso was more impressive than expected. Highly recommend renting the audio guide—unless you’re fluent in early 20th-century art criticism.
Toilets? Well, don’t be surprised if the entrance is down a side alley and shared with a few local cats. Afterward, I wandered to Taperia Princesa and finally found the kind of broken egg dish I’d hoped for—simple, peppery, and satisfying.
In the afternoon, I took the metro and tram combo up to Tibidabo. Be warned: if you're changing between metro and the free funicular, there's an awkward waiting point with no signage. Once at the top though, the view makes up for the fuss. The wind was wild—bring a layer if you’re heading up late in the day.
Day 3 – Street Art, Tapas Redemption, and Tourist Chaos
The Gothic Quarter was crowded, but still magical. I stumbled upon a chocolat-bar with house-made churros that weren't overly sweet and just right with a morning espresso.
Later, I made my way through a maze of indoor eateries and spotted one with Cantonese-style soup listed. Turns out, it was run by a woman from Guangzhou who moved to Spain 15 years ago. Comfort food really does travel well.
I did get stopped for ID check in the metro (Barcelona’s way of keeping everyone “safe”), but thankfully nothing was stolen. Solo travel is thrilling—but keep your phone zipped and your wallet deeper than your decoy pocket.
FAQ: What backpack did I use for this solo trip?
I packed everything into an expandable backpack designed for short solo travel. It fit under the hostel bed, was light enough for tram hopping, and big enough for a change of shoes, camera gear, and emergency snacks. If you’re city-hopping alone, an expandable backpack for travel is a game-changer.
Looking for a backpack that keeps up with you?
