If you’re looking for the best places to take pictures in Barcelona, you’ve just found your ultimate photo checklist. I’ve spent days wandering through the winding alleys, bright beaches, and architectural marvels of this vibrant city, camera in hand, chasing perfect light and angles.
Whether you’re snapping shots for Instagram, your blog, or just for memories, these 15 spots will light up your lens and your feed.
Here’s where to take pictures in Barcelona, Spain:
La Sagrada Família
This iconic basilica seems to change with every hour of sunlight. The best time to photograph it is during the late afternoon when the sun hits the nativity facade, giving it a rich, honey glow. Inside, get cool shots of the light reflecting across your face, and wait patiently to get (mostly) people-free shots of the Sagrada’s interior.
Tip: Use your phone’s wide-angle lens from Plaça de Gaudí across the street to get the whole structure with its reflection in the pond.
Short code:
Bunkers del Carmel
Want panoramic views with a touch of adventure? Hike up to Bunkers del Carmel.
Built in 1938, during the Spanish Civil War, the bunkers atop the hill of Turó de la Rovira overlook the entire city. Today, they have some of the most breathtaking sunset shots in Barcelona, so get there early to claim a spot.
Something to keep in mind: There are often parties at the Bunkers after dark, and the authorities have been cracking down on them recently.
Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter)
If you’re serious about capturing the best places to take pictures in Barcelona, this one’s a must. Lose yourself in the Gothic Quarter’s ancient stone alleys, archways, and hidden courtyards.
Early morning is best here, as the soft light makes the old stones glow, and the streets are nearly empty. Getting here between 7-8 AM would be the best time to avoid people.
The Top Photo Spots in the Gothic Quarter (with Tips & Addresses)
Pont del Bisbe (Bishop’s Bridge)
Address: Carrer del Bisbe, 08002 Barcelona
- Use your phone’s ultra-wide lens to frame the full bridge with the narrow alley.
Barcelona Cathedral
Address: Pla de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona
- Capture the main façade in golden hour for dramatic light on the details.
- Shoot from the cloister for peaceful, symmetrical courtyard photos.
- Sunset will make it difficult to get panoramic shots here because the tall buildings let in very little light.
Plaça Reial
Address: Plaça Reial, 08002 Barcelona
- Head here at night when the street lanterns glow for magical lighting.
- Use your phone’s grid lines to keep the palm trees and lamps lined up.
Carrer del Call (Jewish Quarter)
Address: Near Carrer de Sant Honorat, 08002 Barcelona
- Go during midday when the light filters softly through the narrow lanes.
- Great for shadow-y pics.
Plaça Sant Felip Neri
Address: Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, 08002 Barcelona
- This quiet, hidden square is best visited early for peaceful, contemplative shots.
St. Josep La Boqueria
If you’re after bold lifestyle pics, the St. Josep La Boqueria in La Rambla is a must.
The fruit stands and candy displays are picture-perfect. Arrive right when the market opens to avoid crowds and catch vendors setting up their vibrant displays.
I know I’ve said this a lot, but this place is BUSY, like, you might not be able to move much busy. Beware of pickpockets.
Tip: Use your phone’s zoom feature to capture tight compositions without disturbing the displays or blocking shoppers.
Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
Casa Milà might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re wondering where to take pictures in Barcelona.
But it should be, and here’s why: Another Gaudí gem, Casa Milà wows with its wave-like facade and cool rooftop chimneys. There’s really nothing like it.
Your phone’s night mode can capture the building’s glow after dark. From the street, try shooting upward with a wide lens to emphasize the curves and height.
This tour takes you inside Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, Casa Vicens:
Casa Batlló
Gaudí does it again.
Casa Batlló’s vibrant tiles and organic shapes look like something out of a dream. Stand on the opposite sidewalk for a full view. Around midday, when the sun is directly above, the details pop beautifully.
Tip: Walk across the street and tap to focus on the building’s surface (this helps bring out the textures).
Passeig de Gràcia
This boulevard contains some of the city’s most stunning architecture, including Casa Milà and Casa Batlló. Also a great spot for street shots.
Park Güell
Park Güell is a color explosion that never disappoints. Gaudí’s iconic mosaics and sweeping views over the city make this one of the absolute best places to take pictures in Barcelona.
Tips: This is one of the most popular things to do in Barcelona, so don’t expect to get the benches for yourself, even at the opening. Instead, respectfully approach your desired spot and wait patiently for it to be clear.
Barceloneta Beach
The beautiful Barceloneta Beach also happens to be one of the best places to take pictures in Barcelona!
Great for golden hour magic, when you can capture silhouettes of surfers and joggers with the setting sun behind them.
Tip: Use your phone’s live photo or burst mode to catch dynamic shots of waves, bikers, or beachgoers. A clip-on polarizer filter can reduce glare and deepen colors.
Learn how to take full advantage of golden hour with my Travel Blogger’s Guide to Taking Pics on Your Phone.
Montjuïc
Take the cable car up to Montjuïc Castle for a mix of history and sweeping sea views.
The best photos come during the golden hour or just after sunset. Capture the fortress walls with the ocean in the background or shoot from the terraces looking down over the city.
Tip: Shoot down from the terrace for a layered look.
Palau de la Música Catalana
Barcelona’s main concert hall is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. My advice is to take a tour to get the best shots of the stained glass ceiling and gorgeous ornate interior.
The morning light filtering in through the windows makes everything sparkle. Try shooting from the upper balcony for a dramatic angle.
Arc de Triomf
Barcelona’s version of the triumphal arch is a striking photo subject.
The long promenade leading up to it gives you perfect symmetry. Capture wide shots with people for scale or close-ups of the lovely stonework.
Tip: Pop an ultra-wide lens over your phone (I use this one), and go low-angle to exaggerate the size of the structure and cut out the swarms of people who surround it at all hours.
Montserrat
While not technically in Barcelona, Montserrat is only a short bus or train ride away, and many day tours include it on their itineraries. If you’re up for a short hike, you’ll find scenic points along the trails.
Tips for taking pics with The Black Madonna at Montserrat:
- If taking a selfie or portrait near the statue, switch to portrait mode to softly blur the background while keeping the Black Madonna in focus. You’ll need to plan out your shot and move fast because you only get a few seconds with the Madonna.
- Avoid using flash, both out of respect for the sacred atmosphere and to prevent glare on the glass that protects the statue.
I took this guided tour of the Black Madonna, which included the entrance to watch the Boys Choir and and admission to the cog wheel train, although there was an option to use the cable car instead:
Wrapping It Up
These are truly the best places to take pictures in Barcelona, Spain!
From sunrise at Park Güell to the glowing fountains of Montjuïc, this city gives and gives. I hope my guide helps you make the most of Barcelona and delivers a fresh perspective on what to see and shoot!
