The best way to visit and see Amsterdam: do a free walking tour

Discover this city by doing one of the free tours in Amsterdam that you’ll find on GuruWalk. A local guide will help you to get to know the culture and history of the local monuments and landmarks on your tour of the Netherland‘s capital.

If you haven’t had the chance to do one of these pay-what-you-please walking tours, you can read up on what it is here so you’ll know what to expect on this type of guided tour.

How can I visit Amsterdam in 1 or 3 days?

If you are planning on visiting the Venice of the North soon, here you have our list of must-see places and stops for your trip. When you are planning what to do and see in Amsterdam it’s important to take into consideration what are the most iconic or popular places in the city.

If you want to visit the city at a more relaxed pace but still see all those things that interest you, you can always reserve a guruwalk and not miss a thing.

1. Take a trip back in time to the Rijksmuseum

The National Museum of the Netherlands is an essential stop on your trip to get a general idea of the country’s history. Here you can do a quick rundown of the Netherlands’ history from the year 1100 up to today by way of the 8000 objects on display in its 80 exhibit halls. Among such a vast collection, we’d have to say that the Doll Houses and the Delft collection of fine porcelain stand out for their exceptional beauty.

The paintings by the master artists from the Golden Age of Dutch Painting, like Vermeer, Jan Steen and Frans Hals, are the most popular in the museum, especially the museum’s collection of masterpieces by Rembrandt, including The Night Watch.

The top must-see places to visit in Amsterdam

It not just what’s on exhibit at the museum that will attract you, the building itself which has recently been restored is a true architectural masterpiece on its own.

Since it is such a popular and transited museum, we recommend that you go first thing in the morning to avoid the rush and see all the amazing art at your own pace. It is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day and it has a cool audio-guide available in different languages that can you download on the museum’s application. The entrance fee costs €20 per person and people under 18 get in for free. Buying your ticket in advance can also help get you in faster and skip the line.

2. Take a boat ride or just walk along Amsterdam’s canals

How can you go to Amsterdam and not take the chance to visit its canals? Impossible! These wonders declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO can be visited by just walking on land and water.

A walk along the canals will allow you to discover the city and its most beautiful buildings on the Gouden Bocht, the stretch of the Herengracht canal between Leidsestraat and Vijzelstraat streets. At the corner of Reguliersgrach and Herengracht streets is the Bridge of the 15 bridges. From there, on the side of the street with the odd-numbered houses, you can enjoy one of the most romantic views of the city at dusk. If you don’t arrive then, you can entertain yourself by counting the fourteen bridges seen from there. The Magere Brug is one of the most picturesque drawbridges and is also a mandatory stop.

Without a doubt, the best way to get to know the channels is to take a boat ride in them. There are companies that rent water bikes or offer short cruises which are always an unforgettable experience!

The water bicycles have three stops on Stadhouderskade streets, 42; Stadhouderskade, 11 and Prinsengracht, 280. They cost around €15.50 per person and can be rented in summer from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and in winter from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Amsterdam boat cruises, which leave from in front of the Central station, cost €18 for adults and €10 for children 4 to 12 years old. Children under 4 travel free. Departure times are every 20 minutes between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM, and every 30 minutes between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

If being near the water is not your thing or you want to expand on the information you got about the canals, you can visit the Grachtenhuis. This museum informs you about their history with an interactive multimedia exhibition and numerous models. The building where it is located is also worth mentioning since bankers and merchants lived there since 1663, including Jan Willink, the famous supporter of the Americans in the Revolutionary War.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., while Mondays it is closed. General admission costs €15, children between 4 and 13 years pay €7.50, and retirees and students have a reduced admission of €12.50. For children under 3 years, access is free. There are also special discounts for families. You can buy your tickets in advance and avoid unnecessary lines.

3. Let yourself be dazzled by the Van Gogh Museum

This museum houses the largest collection of artwork by the Dutch Post-Impressionist master of the 19th century. It is curious how even though, in his life, Vincent van Gogh did not sell more than a painting, he had such a great influence on the art of the future, as he is considered today to be one of the great masters of the history of universal art. Proof of the importance of this artist is the high number of annual visitors to the museum itself, with about two million a year. The most outstanding masterpieces that are on exhibit there are the paintings: Sunflowers, The Potato Eaters, and his various self-portraits. The visit will shed some light on the life and times of the famous painter.

The museum is always quite busy, which is why we suggest you visit it first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds. Tickets can only be purchased online and it is better to do it well in advance to make sure you get the chance to visit at the time or date you want. It is open every day, except January 1. The 2019 schedules are from September 2 to October 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., from October 28 to December 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and from December 23 to December 31 from 9:00 a.m. to 19:00 p.m. Fridays it is open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tickets cost €19 and visitors under 18 are free.

4. Check out the surprising Houseboats

Nothing is more logical in a city full of canals, than having a lot of houseboats. They are authentic homes that are moored on urban waters. In the beginning, they were used as a method to reduce the housing problem after World War II and as a way to reuse cargo ships from the Dutch fleet.

If you prefer accommodation on land but you are still feeling curious, you can always visit one of these houses that has been converted into a ship-museum. The Houseboat Museum, located on a former cargo ship from 1914, offers you the chance to check one out that is full of traditional details.

This museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It costs €4.50, for children under 15 years, it’s €3.50 and it is free for children under 5 years. Tickets can only be purchased on the ship itself.

5. Feel like you’re in a Fairy Tale in Volendam

One of the most recommended excursions from Amsterdam is the fishing village of Volendam. Its isolated location has contributed to preserving its peculiar traditional character which can be seen in their homes, traditional costumes, their dialect and even in their own musical style.

It is best to discover this village walking through its streets, its squares, its port and visit the eel smokehouse. Here is the perfect place to do your souvenir shopping, as you will find numerous handicraft and gastronomy products: from typical Dutch wooden clogs to delicious cheeses. This day trip is really worth it and one you should include in your trip!

6. Be moved by visiting the Anne Frank House

Anne Frank was a Jewish girl who lived hidden in this house with her family and two others during the Nazi occupation from June 1942 to August 1944. But by this time, they were discovered and deported to different concentration camps. No family member survived except the father, Otto Frank. Anne was 15 years old at the time. The teenager’s experiences during that period were described by herself in a journal, or the famous Diary of Anne Frank. This moving personal account of the Holocaust was subsequently published and turned into a unique testimony of the Jewish persecution by the Germans.

In the house-museum, you can visit the apartment where the three families were hidden during those years. The furniture was confiscated when they were arrested, but fragments of the diary’s manuscript, photographs, documents, and personal belongings have been left on exhibit to give you a living idea of what happened in those rooms.

If you want to have the opportunity to visit the house, you have to buy tickets online well in advance because it is a very popular museum. Schedules are from April 1st to November 1st every day from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., from November 1st to April 1st every day from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. at 10:00 p.m. It is closed on October 9th by Yom Kippur. The ticket price is €10.50 for adults, €5.50 for children between 10 and 17 years old, and €0.50 for children under 10 years old.

7. Check out the Coffeeshops

The famous coffeeshops are coffee shops where you can buy and consume soft drugs. You can find them spread out across the whole city. In the Netherlands, these types of drugs were legalized in the 1970s to prevent and reduce the use of harder drugs. Although it seems like a very permissive country, in reality, the regulations are very strict, and you can only purchase and consume in these licensed coffee shops legally.

The entry of minors is not allowed and identification is required before entering. In most of the coffeeshops, they also serve non-alcoholic drinks and “normal” food, but they have a second menu in which they offer products derived from marijuana and cannabis. Even if you do not consume these substances you can always go in for a while just to check it out.

8. Breathe in the peace of Begijnhof

Begijnhof is a courtyard surrounded by modest homes where the Blessed Sisters, a community of women, lived under a vow of chastity without being nuns. After the prohibition of the Catholic religion in the sixteenth century, the Begijnhof continued to exist, since the houses were and still are privately owned, but the chapel was closed. Later, a clandestine church was built that still exists and can be visited today.

Legend has it that a devotee, Cornelia Arens wanted to be buried in the patio’s sewer. Despite her last wish, when she died she was buried in the church. The next day and then on, the coffin is reported to have mysteriously appeared in the sewer until the sisterhood gave up and left her buried there.

Nowadays, although the last devotee has died, the houses are still inhabited and the rest and privacy of the neighbors must be respected, so it is not allowed to take photos, leave the walking trails for visitors or make any unnecessary noise.

One of these houses stands out because it is the only wooden dwelling left in the city: the Houten Huys, built in 1528.

The patio can be visited daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

9. Get to know what’s up with the Red Light District

The history of the Red Light District, famous for having prostitution in showcases or window fronts, is very old. The neighborhood owes its name to the red lights that were formerly used as an attraction for customers between the curtains of the windows.

One of the most interesting things to do here is a visit to the Prostitution Museum, where you will learn a lot about this activity and you can even put yourself in these workers’ place- in one of the shop windows. The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. and is only accessible to those over 18. The half-day ticket (until 1:00 p.m.) costs €10 and the whole day ticket €12,50.

What to see and do in Amsterdam’s Red Light District?

It is important to know that in 2018 tourist visits began to be regulated with very strict rules to protect the privacy and safety of women workers. It is completely forbidden to take photos, stand in front of doors or windows, look between the curtains, display any aggressive behavior, go there drunk or knock on the glass of the windows. This regulation is part of a more extensive and thorough plan to regulate legal prostitution in the city.

10. Learn all about beer with the Heineken Experience

In the old Heineken brewery, closed since 1988, there is an exhibition where you can learn about the beer manufacturing process, the history of the brand and try some of its varieties.

This destination is open every day of the year, from Monday to Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and from Friday to Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The price depends on the type of visit you want to do. The most basic visit is 90 minutes with an audio guide and two beers, which costs €18 if you buy the ticket online. Minors must be accompanied by an adult and will receive, instead of the gift beer, a soda.

11. Stop and smell the roses at the Flower Market

This curious floating market originated in 1862, when growers went with their boats downtown to sell their flowers. Over time, these vessels became fixed in the Singel canal and even began to build small greenhouses on top.

It is local’s favorite place to buy fresh flowers at any time of the year. Currently, there are more and more souvenir shops, but there is no souvenir from the Netherlands more typical than a few bulbs of your favorite tulip.

It is open from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

12. Admire the monuments in Dam Square

This square is the most famous in the city and is where the Royal Palace and the National Monument are located.

The Royal Palace of the Netherlands was the old city hall. The imposing building that was built during the Dutch Golden Age was inaugurated in 1655 and it was not until two centuries later that it was converted into a palace. Currently, receptions and other events are held there, but you can also visit and learn about the life of ancient royalty among the marble galleries, numerous sculptures, and period paintings.

Visits can be made daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but it is better to check the calendar on the website to see the days on which it is closed. The price is €10 for adults and free for children under 18. Free audio guides are also available in many languages.

When you cross the square you find the National Monument, a memorial monument to the victims of World War II on which every May 4th, the Nationale Dodenherdenking, the royal family, present a floral offering in memory of the victims of war violence around the world and observe two minutes of silence.

13.Go treasure hunting in Spui Square

The attraction of this central square is its art and literature markets. Every Sunday from March to December the art market opens and, every Friday, the book market. It is a phenomenal opportunity to acquire works of art directly from the creators, as well as to find that special book in the piles of literature on offer.

The art market works with a rotation system, this way there is almost never the same artist each week. An authentic work of art purchased from a local artist is the best souvenir you can imagine. It is open every Sunday from March to December from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The book market is a meeting point for writers, readers, and collectors. The other days of the week there is also intellectual activity in the square as it houses three popular bookstores, an editorial house and a space for literary events. The cafes around are frequented by authors and other characters from the cultural landscape.

14. Discover the Oude Kerk, Amsterdam’s oldest church

This church located in the Red Light District is the oldest in Amsterdam. Its origin can be traced back to 1213 when in the place where it is today there was a small wooden chapel used by sailors and fishermen in the area. Later, in 1306, he was officially consecrated to St. Nicholas, their patron. With the passage of time, the building has been changing and expanding to become the beautiful church that we can admire today. He considers that it was a Catholic and later Calvinist temple, so he has suffered all kinds of looting and destruction, but is part of the life and soul of the city.

The beauty of its stained-glass windows, the curious collection of miniature ships reminiscent of its sailor origins, the beautiful medieval paintings in the wooden vault and the decorative organs make this a very special church and worthy of a detailed visit.

In 2016, the Oude Kerk took a turn towards modernity and has become an exhibition hall where both local and foreign artists are invited to exhibit and create their works of art in this unique frame full of history.

Visiting hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The ticket costs €10 and has audio guides.

15. Live like a painter from the 17th Century in the Rembrandt House Museum

If you want to know how the genius of painting lived, this place is for you. Thanks to the fact that he was evicted in 1658 and an inventory was made of all the objects that were in the house, it has been possible to make a recreation quite faithful to reality. Entering there is like taking a little trip in time. In addition, you can see paintings by various contemporaries of Rembrandt, his master Pieter Lastman and his students, engravings of the artist himself and other temporary exhibitions.

It is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. General admission costs €14, for children 6 to 17 years it costs €5 and for children under 6 years is free.

Map with the essential places to see in Amsterdam

We hope you enjoyed this list of the essential places to visit in Amsterdam and remember that our gurus will help you to get the most out of your time in this amazing city. Enjoy it!

Barcelona is a city that can be tough to see in just a weekend, although if you only have two days, you can catch the most iconic places that represent the essence of Catalonia’s culture. The city is one of the most visited destinations in Spain and Europe by travelers from around the world

When choosing these points of interest, you should get some advice from local experts who really know the hidden charms and can see the world though in the eyes of the tourist. In fact, it’s ideal to visit the city of Barcelona with someone who knows it perfectly, both for the inside information you can get but also because of the time you can save by getting oriented quickly and effectively on a guruwalk.

The best way to visit and see Barcelona: do a free walking tour

At GuruWalk, we have a large community of local tour guides that offer the best free walking tours in Barcelona and in many other cities around the world. Thanks to them we can discover the city in a different, fun and more relaxing way.

If you have never done a free walking tour, let us explain what it is and how it works!

How can I visit Barcelona in 1 or 3 days?

Are you looking for the essential places to visit in Barcelona? This city, which is described as Mediterranean and cosmopolitan, integrates urban remains, medieval neighborhoods, and modernist avant-garde architecture from the 20th Century.

Barcelona is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with emblematic buildings and an incredible cultural, historical and artistic heritage. It is the perfect city to visit since it has multiple museums, shows, dances, historic buildings and parks with lots of colors as well as being famous for its exquisite cuisine.

1. Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is the symbol par excellence as it is the best known and most characteristic building in the entire Catalonian city. It is modernist architecture designed by the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí i Cornet. This is a temple that has not yet been finished that is visited by thousands of tourists every day. In addition, you can hire a guided tour to get to know this magnificent landmark in detail.

Monument history

The first stone that was laid was in March 1882 with a neo-Gothic style, later when the crypt was built and, when certain disagreements with the promoters occurred, the basilica came to Gaudí, who redesigned the entire concept. When the architect died (1926) the basilica was not finished, but thanks to the plans which have been preserved since then, they were able to continue building it.

Most outstanding elements

• The towers

So far 8 of the 18 towers that make up La Sagrada Familia have been placed, and an interesting bit of information is that Gaudí decided that they should be dedicated to the Apostles, the Evangelists, the Virgin Mary and the baby Jesus.

• The facades

The main facade or facade of La Gloria is the one that represents death, the day of judgment, glory and the abyss. The birth of Jesus Christ is embodied in the second facade which makes it full of life. The third and last outstanding facade is that of La Pasión, it is really a bit sober in reflecting the suffering of Jesus at the moment in which he was crucified.

• The interior

The interior of the Sagrada Familia is spectacular for its huge tree trunk-shaped columns made with volcanic rock of red porphyry combined with granite, in addition, you can see the street lights being reflected. The altar and the crypt deserve mention also, and in the latter, there are two angels and an image of Jesus hanging on the cross.

Beyond what we can tell you at the historical level, there are always details that can only be appreciated by being there. That is why we advise you to visit the Sagrada Familia with a local guide who can tell you all the interesting details about the place, in addition to answering any questions you may have.

2. Las Ramblas, Barcelona

Do you know that Las Ramblas is the most emblematic street in all of Barcelona? It is the most central avenue that crosses the down town. It is also characterized by being a pleasant walking area of ​​1.3 kilometers that connects the Plaza de Cataluña and the old port.

All the tourists who visit this landmark observe that the street is always lively, full of passersby, live performances, street performers, flower kiosks and large terraces for a drink. There are also permanent attractions and they are as follows:

Wax Museum

The Wax Museum is a great neoclassical building that has more than 200 wax figures of famous and historical figures inside. We must highlight that the most curious exhibit in the place that is the bank’s vault.

Boqueria

The Boqueria is the most famous market worldwide as it has more than 2,500 square meters and more than 300 stalls in which they offer you many different types of food, for example, sweets, Macedonian tubs, eggs, meat, fish, etc.

Christopher Columbus Monument

The Christopher Columbus monument was built in 1888 when this navigator landed in Barcelona to find the new world. It stands out for its towering height of 60 meters and being at the end of Las Ramblas, next to the port.

3. Gothic Quarter, Barcelona

One of the best-known neighborhoods is the Gothic Quarter, which has the greatest treasures in terms of Gothic buildings throughout the European continent. It is known for its medieval layout, its narrow streets, its hidden squares, and its ancient and modern buildings.

Brief history

Around Sant Jaume square, in the Gothic quarter, the Romans of Barcino settled, and it was established between the year 15 and 10 BC, becoming the economic and commercial center. In addition, there are remains of the Temple of Augustus and they were intact until the nineteenth century, at which time the walls were demolished.

Essential places to visit

There are many points of interest in the Gothic quarter, and the church of Santa María del Pi and that of San Felipe Neri should be mandatory stops on your trip. The Sant Jaume square is the emblematic place and in it there is the Generalitat building and City Hall, a place where many important events are held. Another of the places that should be mentioned is that of the King’s headquarters of the Royal Palace, which was built in the Middle Ages, and houses a group of buildings from that time which now house part of the Museum of History of the City.

4. Gracia

Another one of the obligatory places to visit in Barcelona is the Paseo de Gracia which has been described as an elegant and stately promenade out of the nineteenth-century Barcelona bourgeoisie. It is characterized by linking the Plaza Cataluña with the neighborhood of Gracia and those who walk around can admire the amount of enormous, modernist and nineteen-hundreds’ buildings. Two of the most outstanding cases are the buildings created by Antonio Gaudí, explained below.

Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló was designed by Gaudí for Josep Batlló and was built between 1904 and 1906. The facade is very original, since the balconies look like skulls and the pillars like bones, and all of this playing with optical illusions. The interior is fantastic and the audio-guide runs through the old family residence that lived there to see all the most interesting hiding places, as well as a patio full of lights and a roof with very original fireplaces.

La Pedrera

La Pedrera or Casa Milà was built between 1906 and 1912 by the Spanish architect and was commissioned by Pere Milà and Roser Segimon with the aim of living there. A civil building that stands out for its innovation when it comes to building it and for its aesthetic and decorative solutions since the facade is of undulating limestone with huge windows and convoluted balconies. During the visit, the most curious thing to see is the rooftop where different elements are found, such as stairwells, skylights, chimneys, and free-form ventilation towers.

Without a doubt, one of the essential places to see in Barcelona when you visit. We recommend this tour with a local guide with whom you can discover all the secrets of Catalonian culture.

5. Hospital of Santa Creu and Sant Pau

Thanks to a millionaire’s donation, at the beginning of the 20th century they were able to start building the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau by the hand of the modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner. It is a hospital that occupies 9 blocks of the neighborhood with a square plot of 300 meters each side and 27 pavilions and, today, is declared World Heritage by UNESCO.

The architect decided to give it a completely avant-garde style and for 80 years it was the place where the poor were cared for. This hospital can be visited freely, with audio-guide or hire a guided tour to learn all the details of this icon from a bygone era.

6. El Born, Barcelona

There’s no better way to fully enjoy one of the best-known neighborhoods in the city of Barcelona: El Born. The area has many essential places to visit in Barcelona that we strongly recommend.

Brief history

El Born was the core of the economy between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries as it was one of the trade routes, which led to increased wealth and made very distinguished buildings such as the palaces of Montcada street possible. Little by little, the famous Ciutadella, a military fortress that was located in the current Ciutadella Park, fell apart and was finally lost.

What to do in El Born in Barcelona?

One of the notable places in this neighborhood is the Santa María del Mar basilica built between 1329 and 1383 and with a Gothic style. We must also mention the Picasso Museum, since it is a cultural symbol of El Born and one of the most popular tourist destinations, the most famous Market in the neighborhood called Santa Caterina, the walk along Via Laeitana and Calle Princesa.

7. Park Güell, Barcelona

Park Güell is a public park with gardens and architectural elements located in Northern Barcelona. The design of the place was directed by the architect Antoni Gaudí and the construction took place between 1900 and 1914 in a natural environment that has some of the best views of the city. These are the park’s most famous sites.

The Nature Square

An esplanade that stands out for its natural beauty and is limited by a huge wavy bench lined with a beautiful mosaic; a site from which you can see views of the city.

The Dragon Staircase

An impressive staircase structured in 3 sections and made with stones, having the well-known salamander or the mosaic dragon above, which has been used as the park icon.

The Hypostyle Hall

This room is designed by 86 columns that collect rainwater and are intended to hold the Plaza de la Naturaleza, in addition, the roof domes are adorned with ceramic mosaics.

Top essential places to visit in Barcelona: Park Güell

We highlight Park Güell as one of the most important places in Barcelona. Gaudí’s work is reflected in a very particular way in every corner of the park, from the Hall of the Hundred Columns, through the Hypostyle Room, the viaducts, or the Calvario Monument itself.

Beyond Park Güell, Guadí’s work extends throughout much of Barcelona, ​​flooding the city with his art and way of understanding the world. If you want to see the best of Modernism and inform yourself with an expert in the field, we advise you to take a look at this tour with an official local guide of the city who will help you make the most out of your trip by uncovering the stories behind these iconic places.

8. Montjuic

Apart from Tibidabo, Mt. Motjuic is Barcelona’s other mountain, ​​in addition, it is one of the enclaves full of places and landmarks that used to play a key role in defending the city.

What to see in Montjuic, Barcelona?

For an ideal trip, visiting emblematic sites such as Montjuic Castle, the Joan Miró Foundation, the National Art Museum of Catalonia, the Greek Theater Gardens and the Magic Fountain of Montjuic, and many others is a must for you to get to know this unique place. Don’t forget some of the most important sports venues in the city such as the Olympic Stadium and the Palau Sant Jordi, host different types of events and are located in this vicinity.

9. Palau de la Música Catalana

The Palau de la Música Catalana was designed by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner between 1905 and 1908. It is a very particular modernist building because of its magnificent facade that is hidden between the streets of the La Ribera neighborhood.

It is open to the public and stands out for having a rehearsal room of the Orfeón Catalán designed in the modernist era and because of the concert hall with great lighting as it has a giant skylight in the middle. Finally, there is the Lluís Millet room, where you can see the spectacular colonnade formed by the facade’s ornate balcony.

Music is a fundamental part of the culture of any city. That is why we are choosing the Palau de la Música Catalana as one of the essential places to visit in Barcelona.

10. MACBA: Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona

The MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona) is a space that opened its doors in 1995 and, since then, has become a national and international reference for art from the second half of the 20th century, recognized as a Museum of National Interest.

It is located in the Plaza dels Angels, next to the CCCB and the Faculty of Geography and History of the University of Barcelona. This esplanade is characterized by being a place in constant motion, with groups of skaters out under the sun and hanging out in its pleasant terraces.

The building was designed by Richard Meier. Its facade is accentuated by the pieces of glass while its white color and strong luminosity stand out and highlight its beauty. Inside. Here, you can visit permanent exhibitions, composed of a collection of more than 5800 own works, and also check out some of the featured temporary exhibitions.

Barcelona is a city to get lost and stroll through its streets throughout the day. Its endless cultural and gastronomic options have made it one of tourist’s favorite destinations in the Mediterranean. If you visit Barcelona, ​​try doing it with a guide so you can get to discover the best places.

11. Labyrinth Park

You will find the park of the Labyrinth of Horta (Labyrinth Park) in the northwest of the city, in the district of Horta-Guinardó. It is the oldest preserved garden in the city and one of the essential places to visit on our list.

Of course, this is a lesser-known spot that is in a more remote place where many tourists looking for what to see and do in Barcelona don’t usually get the chance to visit.

The history of its gardens

This park combines Neoclassical and Romantic styles. Its construction began at the end of the 18th century as a private garden for the Desvalls family. The design was commissioned by the important Italian architect Domenico Bagutti, who together with the French gardener Devalet and the builder Jaume Valls, created this incredible landmark.

In 1961, the Desvalls family donated the gardens to the city of Barcelona, ​​and today it is recognized as a museum garden and Cultural Property of Local Interest.

Tour the park

The biggest attraction you will enjoy in this magical-looking park is, without a doubt, its enormous maze of Cypress trees, in which getting lost is a game for both children and adults. However, throughout its gardens you will also come across spaces with different styles and influences, with sculptures, fountains and small buildings such as the Temple of Danae or the Pavilion of Carlos IV.

12. Raval neighborhood, Barcelona

Raval neighborhood is located in the center of Barcelona, ​​next to La Rambla, within the Ciutat Vella (old Town) district. This unique enclave, known as Chinatown decades ago, stands out for its rich multiculturalism. In fact, more than 50% of its residents come from other countries around the world.

History and origin of the neighborhood

Originally, the neighborhood of El Raval was just a combination of settlements that were at the entrances of the city of Barcelona but outside its fortified walls. After the fortification reforms were initiated in the fourteenth century, the neighborhood was brought inside the wall. Interestingly, this wall was not completely demolished until the nineteenth century.

At the end of the 18th century, a strong industrialization process began in El Raval that changed the neighborhood’s history completely, making it the largest working-class neighborhood in the city and the densest in Europe. From this time period, there are factory houses that have been preserved to protect their relevance to the city’s history and its heritage.

Best things to do and see in Raval, Barcelona? Essential places

The neighborhood of El Raval is full of streets full bustling with activity, small shops and establishments with culinary delicacies from around the world.

La Rambla del Raval is a pedestrian avenue that divides the neighborhood. Here you will see a large bronze sculpture which is the work of the artist Botero, Nice, which is a figure of a fat cat that has turned into a neighborhood symbol.

This district houses some of the most important cultural spaces in the city: the MACBA, the CCCB and the Filmoteca.

From El Raval you access the La Boqueria market and the Sant Antoni market, two essential places to visit in Barcelona, especially when you are accompanied by an expert guide on a free walking tour of Barcelona.

13. Tibidabo

Tibidabo is a mountain located approximately 500 meters above sea level that is part of the Sierra de Collserola. Beginning in the 19th century, Tibidabo hill began its urban development. There were distinguished buildings and houses in the modernist style, making the neighborhood home to Barcelona’s upper class.

There are different ways to get to the top of Tibidabo, where you’ll be able to enjoy spectacular views of the city. One of the most interesting ways to get there is to take the funicular from the bottom of the hill.

Tibidabo highlights

One of the biggest attractions is the Tibidabo Amusement Park. Opened in 1901, it is the oldest operating amusement park in Spain. It has more than 30 attractions, and has been the filming location chosen for many popular movies including Vicky, Cristina, Barcelona by Woody Allen.

The Expiatory Temple of the Sacred Heart is another place worth seeing if you make it to the top. It is an imposing neo-Gothic construction, designed by the architect Enric Sagnier i Villavecchia, and is composed of a lower crypt with a church built on top.

14. Encants Market

The Encants market is a paradise for collectors, bargain lovers, second-hand items and auctions. It is the largest market in the city and in its stands you can find everything you can imagine.

Its origin dates back to the thirteenth century, being one of the oldest markets in Europe. Throughout its history, it has changed location many times. In 2013, its definitive space was released, an open-air structure that is also protected from sun and rain, designed by the architecture studio B720.

It is located in the Eixample district, in what was the former Bosquet dels Encants, near the Glories, Monumental or Encants metro stops. It has several floors full of stands that are all accessible by way of elevators and stairs, and different dining options await its visitors.

In Barcelona, you can find other markets that are also worth seeing and visiting, such as the Boqueria Market or the Mercat de San Antoni. It is always interesting to see such places (essential in any city) full of people, and the stories that and day-to-day experiences there every day.

15. The Barceloneta

La Barceloneta is one of the best known seafaring neighborhoods in Spain and is located in the Port Vell district. Until the 18th century, it was an area where many people did not live, but that changed, in 1754 when fishermen began arriving when the sea was next to them. Currently, it has a modern feel that is mixed with the special charm of that time, with its narrow streets and its timeless facades stained by the salty sea breeze.

The best thing to do in this neighborhood is to get lost in its streets and enjoy the atmosphere as you try its rich cuisine. There are also places of interest to visit, such as the Museum of History of Catalonia or the Clock Tower, which was built in 1772 to act as a lighthouse for the port. Last but not least, there is the Barceloneta beach, one of the largest in Spain, stretching 578 meters along the coast. It also has extensive sports and leisure equipment to enjoy a magnificent afternoon at the beach.

Map with the essential places to see and visit in Barcelona

The list of places to see in Barcelona could be endless because it is a city full of monuments, streets, and buildings that would take weeks to visit completely. Therefore, local guides have made a selection of essential places in Barcelona so you can check out what most interests you and decide what you want to check out on your trip to Barcelona on your free walking tours.

Overall, Barcelona is one of the most popular places for tourists to visit because of its rich cultural, historical, artistic and natural attractions. If you plan on traveling to this beautiful city, which stands out as one of the most cosmopolitan and avant-garde cities in Europe, make sure you check out these the essential places on our guides’ list.

Rome is one of those cities they say you should visit and explore at least once in a lifetime. The ‘Eternal City’, is capital of Italy and, not long ago, it was the most important city in the world. Roman culture is present in every neighborhood and city street, and there are hundreds of iconic places that you are not going to want to miss.

In addition, it is currently one of the most popular destinations for tourists and travelers from all over the world. Every year Rome receives thousands of foreigners on its doorstep who seek to get to know every corner of Rome on their trip.

The best way to visit and see Rome: do a free walking tour

We recommend if you want to see Rome and not miss all those essential places, that you should do it with a local guide who can accompany you and teach you about all the hidden charms of the city. On GuruWalk‘s online platform you can find a wide variety of free walking tours in Rome so you can choose a tailor-made, enjoyable and cultural tour that’s best for you.

Once you know what a free walking tour is, it’s very likely you’ll understand why more and more travelers are doing a guruwalk in all the cities they visit.

These are the top 20 essential places in Rome that our gurus (local guides) have recommended for you so you can get to know the city in depth. Take notes and update your travel itinerary with our list of what to see in the Eternal City!

1. St. Peter’s Basilica & Square

St. Peter’s Basilica is the most important church in the Catholic religion, in addition to being the largest cathedral in the world and the place where the tomb of the apostle San Pedro rests. It is attached to the Vatican, the papal headquarters where the highest Catholic figure, the Pope, usually resides. Inside you can see the Pieta by Michelangelo or Bernini’s Baldachinno, as well as giving tourists access to one of its domes that gives a unique viewpoint of the entire city.

San Pedro’s Square brings thousands of travelers and visiting parishioners together every day. In the center of the square, stands the Vatican Obelisk which originated from the Circus of Nero. In addition to this structure, there are different entrances and points of interest that we can find throughout the entire square.

Also, if you want to see the Pope, there are audiences on Wednesdays or you could also attend the brief Angelus ceremony on Sunday. Arriving before 12 noon in the square should be enough to see for the Angelus and for the audience, an entry is needed but it is relatively easy to get them.

If you want to know all the details and secrets about one of the most emblematic places in Rome, we recommend this free tour. The local guide will tell you everything you need to know about the Vatican’s history and culture.

2. Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are a mandatory stop in Rome for any art lover. Located within Vatican City, they house a large number of artworks, highlighting the Sistine Chapel above all.

This great extension of artwork represent the artistic heritage of the Popes. They are called ‘Museums’ in the plural because it is a collection of collections divided into different areas: Museum of Archeology, Pinacoteca, Fresco Cycles, the Collections of Ancient Art, Documents and Historical Objects and a Collection of Contemporary Art.

In addition, the museum structure itself is formed in a spectacular architectural framework with stairways, galleries and rooms designed by some of Italy’s most iconic architects like Bramante, Rafael, Pirro Ligorio or Simonetti and all in a 7-kilometer route.

In the same way as St. Peter’s Square or the Basilica, there is the option to visit the Vatican Museums in the company of a local guru from Rome. A new and exciting way to get to know one of the most beautiful and artistic places in the world.

3. Roman Colosseum

The Roman Colosseum is this city’s most famous monument. It is considered one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World and its state of conservation with respect to its construction is amazing. In addition, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site for being the largest Amphitheater of Antiquity, and one of the symbols of the Roman Empire’s splendor.

Formerly called the Flavian Amphitheater, it served as a type of distraction for the people (Panem et Cirsenses – Bread and circus), performing all kinds of gladiatorial fights as well as public executions. Currently, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world, with entry lines sometimes exceeding a kilometer long!

One of the alternatives to just visiting the Roman Colosseum is by doing a guruwalk (free tour) that includes this monument in your tour. This way you can get to know one of Rome’s essential places with all its hidden charms and interesting anecdotes.

4. Roman Forum

The Roman Forum, formerly considered the nerve center of the city, was considered the central / main square where people gathered. It was the place where trade, business, administration of justice and religion took place. There is a road called the Via Sacra that crosses the Roman Forum and connects it with the Colosseum.

In its current state, you can see the remains of several centuries due to the Roman custom of building on ancient ruins. The excavation that has made it possible to see how the forum is right now was completed at the beginning of the 20th century.

The Roman Forum’s main points of interest are the Via Sacra, The Arch of Titus, The Arch of Severe Seventh, the Temple of Antonio and Faustina, the Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine, The Curia or the Seal Column. All these places are part of the common structure of the forum, having been built at different times.

5. Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is considered one of the most representative fountains of Rome as well as being one of the largest (almost 40 meters long) of the Baroque period in Italy. The source itself connects three main streets of the city marking the point of the Aqua Virgo, which was one of the old aqueducts that supplied water to the city.

In this monument, there is a tradition of throwing coins at the fountain with various theories about why it is done and what benefits it brings. The number of coins thrown has been growing year by year, and now it is being used to finance a supermarket for Romans in need.

If you are passionate about Rome’s squares and public places, as well as all the stories and interesting stories that surround them, you can take a look at this guided tour where you will be accompanied by an official local guide who can shed some light on all that!

6. Maximum Circus

The Circus Maximus is located between the Aventine and Palatine mountains and was considered the largest public place in the city. The shape of the venue is elongated and had a capacity of more than 300,000 spectators, in addition to being the place where public games were held, with charriot racing being the highlight of the show.

All the action took place in the arena, which was 600 meters long and 225 meters wide, giving it the title as the largest in Rome, followed by the Flaminio Circus and the Maxentius Circus. In horse-drawn charriots, racers gave their all for victory, even men (slaves) competing for their freedom.

Currently, it is difficult to see the remains of the Circus’ structure, since the esplanade on which it stood is barely there anymore. It can be disappointing if you don’t have enough imagination to build a mental image of the Circus. It may be paradoxical that we place it as one of the places to see in Rome when there is hardly any trace of its structure, but the site radiates Roman history and gives you a good idea of what the city was like in the age of the Roman Empire.

A new and exciting way to get to know a place like this is by doing it in the company of a local guide who can fill you in on all those interestsing details.

7. Trastevere Neighborhood

Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood is one of the most beautiful places in the city because of its bustling bohemian streets. In fact, we can find some of the most impressive churches in the Italian capital like the Basilica of Santa Maria. The fountain in front of the temple offers a perfect place to rest, have an ice cream or just serve as a meeting point.

The narrow streets of Trastevere where every corner has a story to tell, small medieval churches and facades seem like they have been taken from another page in history, will enchant you with all this and a thousand other things. Additionally, if you are looking to eat well, you are in one of the best culinary areas in Rome with a wide variety of traditional taverns, family restaurants and more modern premises.

The best things to do and see in Trastevere, Rome

If you want to know more details about the most emblematic neighborhood of the Eternal City, don’t hold back and take a look at this free tour in Trastevere:

8. Catacombs of San Calisto and Via Appia

The catacombs of St. Callisto were considered the official cemetery of the Church of Rome in the third century. Nearly half a million Christians lie buried in them, including a dozen martyrs, as well as sixteen Popes along its corridors which stretch more than 20 kilometers in length.

Access to the catacombs is done through the Appia road, and is possibly the point of interest that is furthest from the city center. If we enter, we can see how there is a great symbology along the route, being one of the ways that ancient Christians were able to show their faith without being discovered.

9. Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is possibly one of the most beautiful and emblematic squares in Rome. It is located where the old Domitian stadium (Circus Agonal) dating from the year 86 was located, having a 30,000 spectator capacity where Greek athletic games were once played.

The fountains that are found in the square are this place’s real attraction: Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, Fontana del Moro and Fontana del Nettuno. In addition, the Palazzo Pamphili and the Church of Santa Agnes also stand out as buildings that are worth seeing during a visit. As an interesting fact, until the 19th century, summer was used as a time to close the drains of the fountains and turn the whole square into ‘The Lake of the Navona Square’.

Without a doubt, this is one of the essential places to see in Rome accompanied by an official local guide to show you all about its secrets:

10. The Pantheon (of Agrippa)

The Pantheon of Agrippa is the best-preserved architectural work of Ancient Rome, in addition to being considered as one of the architectural masterpieces present in the Italian capital. It was finished in the year 126 A.D., in the time of Adrian and received that name when it was built on the remains of the old Pantheon of Agrippa that burned in a fire in 80 A.D.

Its amazing state of conservation is due in large part to the fact that in the seventh century it was donated to Pope Boniface IV, who ended up transforming it into a church. The façade of the monument is composed of 16 columns that are 14 meters high. The dome has a diameter of 43.30 meters (higher than the Basilica of St. Peter) with an Oculus that allows natural light to enter the building.

11. Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Steps)

The Plaza de España is the perfect meeting point for any traveler. Located between the streets of Via dei Condotti, Via Frattina and Via del Babuino, it received that name because of the location of the Spanish embassy which has been there since the 17th century.

One of the most important parts of this square is the Staircase of Piazza de Spagna itself. It is a staircase consisting of 135 steps and was built at the beginning of the 18th century to create a link between the square and the Trinità dei Monti Church.

In addition, it also highlights the Fontana della Barcaccia which is located in the center of the square and was designed by Pietro Bernini for Pope Urban III. The fountain is based on the shape of a ship and the Bernini motifs can be seen in the structure: bees and suns. If you go to the Eternal City, without a doubt, the Plaza de España is one of those places worth checking out in Rome.

All the squares in Rome have their own history, always with a lesser-known part that only the locals know. That is why if you are going to visit this place in the capital of Italy, you should do it with a local guide who will enrich your vacation so much more.

12. Castle Saint Angelo

Sant’Angelo Castle (also called Hadrian’s Mausoleum) is located on the right side of the Tiber River, very close to St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican. The building dates from AD 139 from the time of Emperor Hadrian who initially intended it to be a mausoleum for his family. However, in 403 it became a military building and was integrated into the Aurelian Wall.

In 1277 an 800-meter long, walled corridor was built connecting the castle with the Vatican to protect the Pope in case of danger. The building is composed of five floors with a spiral ramp that serves as access to the different heights. There is a terrace on one of the upper floors that gives you a privileged position to get some amazing pictures of Rome.

It is one of the most representative places in this part of the city, and it is almost mandatory to put it on the top 20 list of what to see and visit in Rome.

13. Altar of the Fatherland

The National Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II was innaugurated in 1911 as a tribute to Victor Manuel II himself, the first king of Italy after the country’s unification took place. Within the enclosure, itself you can find the Institute for the History of the Italian Risorgimento and the Central Museum of the Risorgimento.

The monument measures 70 meters high by 135 meters wide supported by dozens of Corinthian columns and countless stairs built in white marble. In the middle, you can see the bronze statue of Victor Manuel, escorted by two chariots guided by the goddess Victoria on top of the 16 columned portico structure.

In 1921 the tomb of the unknown soldier was officially set here, a place where the “eternal flame” can always shine, in addition to always being guarded by two soldiers. It is one of the monuments in Rome that has been most criticized by citizens because of its location (clash of styles with the surrounding buildings) as well as for the excessive costs to build it.

14. Piazza Campidoglio and Capitoline Museums

The Campidoglio Square or Capitol Square is located at the top of the Capitoline Hill, being the first place in the city that broke with the classical style of Rome. It was Pope Paul III Farnese who commissioned Michelangelo to design a square with a modernist style, orienting it towards St. Peter’s Basilica.

In the center of the square you can see an equestrian statue of Marco Aurelio made in bronze. The original is kept in the Palace of the Counselors. However, an exact reproduction of the same statue has been left in its place to honor the original design of this characteristic Piazza.

The Capitoline Museums had their origins in a donation made by Pope Sixtus IV in 1471 from a collection of bronzes. These museums consist of two large buildings: Palace of the Conservatives (Palazzo dei Conservatori) and the New Palace (Palazzo Nuovo) that are joined by Galleria Lapidaria.

We advise you to sign up for a guided tour by a local guru who can show you this essential spot in Rome. This guru can share more info on both the square and the museums that it connects.

15. Market and Trajan Forum

Trajan’s Market is considered the first covered shopping center in history. It was built between 100-110 AD and currently is the location of the Imperial Forum Museum. The building is made of brick and has a total of six floors which housed more than 150 stores.

On an architecture level, it still retains an important part of its visual appearance, only surpassed by the state of conservation of the Colosseum. It is one of the monuments in Rome that is worth visiting since it is considered an essential stop on any city tour.

16. Campo dei Fiori

One of the most emblematic squares of the city both for its market and for its terraces and premises is Campo dei Fiori (Field of flowers). It was Pope Calixto III who commissioned to build it in an open part of the city where there was a field of flowers, thus giving the name to the current square. After several renovations and the construction of important buildings such as the Orsini Palace, it became a popular place for Rome’s most important and iconic citizens.

However, this public space wasn’t always flowers and smiles, since it was also used for public executions. There is a statue of Giordano Bruno who was burned at the stake here in 1600 when he was accused of heresy, only to late have a monument in his honor erected here in 1889.

It is an ideal place for a little distraction from the monuments and to rest, being a little less cultural than other places of interest in Rome, although it is generally very crowded with tourists.

17. Palatine Hill

The Palatine Hill is located 40 meters above the Roman Forum and is the most central hill in the city. You could say that this place is the cradle of Rome as it is believed that it could have been inhabited ever since 1,000 BC. As far back as the Republican era, some of Rome’s wealthiest citizens settled on this mountain, building palaces whose remains are still preserved.

The mythology of this culture states that Luperca, the wolf that protected Romulus and Remus, had its cave located on the Palatine Hill. After arguing, Romulus killed Remus and founded the city of Rome on the banks of the Tiber River.

These are the main points of interest: the Domus Flavia Palace, the House of Livia, the House of Augustus, the Farnesian Gardens, the Domitian Racecourse, and the Palatine Museum.

The best way to get to know the Eternal City is by learning about some of the hidden charms and secret spots that only locals know. Therefore, if you want a more complete view of the Palatine, we recommend that you take a look at this free tour:

18. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is an old Catholic church that is the largest in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary, as well as being one of the four largest basilicas in the city. It was Pope Liberius who in the mid-fourth century ordered this Basilica to be constructed on top of the pagan temple that worshiped the goddess Cibeles.

Over the years different names have been attributed to him, such as; Santa María de las Nieves, for the snowfall that inspired the shape of the basilica, Santa María Liberiana, in honor of Pope Liberio, or Santa María del Pesebre after receiving a relic of the Holy Manger. However, in the end it has remained as that of Santa María la Mayor, because it is the largest church of worship for the Blessed Virgin Mary in Rome.

Inside, we can see a wide variety of architectural styles with the Baroque prevailing over the rest. The building was restored and completely renovated in the 18th century, maintaining the façade and internal decoration of this period

19. Hot Springs of Caracalla

The Baths of Caracalla were completed in 216 under Emperor Caracalla (Marco Aurelio Antonio Basiano), and were one of the largest hot springs of his time. At present, there are hardly any brick walls and vaults, but much of the splendor that made this a treasured Roman landmark can still be appreciated.

These hot springs were a popular place of leisure for Roman society, which, in addition to providing hygiene, also helped strengthen social relations. In addition, in the enclosure one could also practice sports, go to the library or worship the god Mithras or other pagan deities featured in the temple.

20. Galleria Borghese

The Borghese Gallery is located in Borghese Gardens, and is one of the most important museums in the world. The gallery’s name corresponds to the great collection that Cardinal Scipione Borghese (Pope Paul V’s nephew) started in 1633 and which is now on permanent display in the gallery.

Scipione Borghese is considered to be one of the greatest collectors of Caravaggio’s work, in addition to being Bernini’s first patron. In the museum, you can see a wide collection of works by both artists.

To be able to book a reservation at the Borghese Gallery, you have to do the paperwork or do it by phone or online, through its website. We advise you to do it a few days in advance due to the large quantity of visitors that this museum has every day. We have left this museum at the end of our list of what to see in Rome precisely so you do not forget to book your ticket.

Map with the essential places to see in Rome

So, that wraps up our top 20 list for Rome. We know… we have definitely left out some of Rome’s charms. That’s the worst part about these ‘Top’ lists, having to leave so many out. However, if you have one that is your favorite, leave a comment and let the community know about your essential spots to visit in Rome, and see if you can book a guru walk to check it out and get the inside story to travel like a pro!

In addition, there are always new destinations to visit where you can do free walking tours to get to know the place like a local and start sharing some more authentic experiences.