Travel Talk Back: 48 Hours in Barcelona?

Travel

Audio By Carbonatix

By Kevin McCullough, Editor in Chief

At That Passport Life, we love nothing more than helping fellow travelers plan their best trips. For this week’s Travel Talk Back a traveler asks how to make the most of 48 hours in Barcelona before embarking on a cruise.

Traveler's Question

Carol writes:

“Hi Kevin, We are going on a cruise this May leaving from Barcelona. We will arrive a couple days early to explore before getting on the ship. Do you have a recommendation of where to stay while we are in Barcelona?
Thank you,
Carol M.”

Kevin's Answer

Carol, what a fantastic choice. Barcelona is one of those rare cities that feels both historic and cosmopolitan at the same time—perfect for easing into vacation mode before boarding your cruise. Since you’ll have a couple of days, where you stay matters as much as what you do, because location in Barcelona shapes the experience.

If it’s your first time, I suggest basing yourself near the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). It’s the heartbeat of the city—narrow medieval streets, tapas bars tucked into courtyards, and a short walk to the cathedral, Las Ramblas, and the waterfront. A favorite here is Hotel Colón, directly across from the Barcelona Cathedral. You’ll get old-world charm with modern comfort, plus a rooftop terrace that delivers one of the best views in town. It’s central, safe, and puts you right in the middle of Barcelona’s soul.

If you’d like something a touch more upscale and polished, consider the El Born district, slightly trendier and full of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The Grand Hotel Central is a gem here, with sleek rooms and one of the city’s most photographed infinity pools overlooking the skyline. Staying here gives you easy access to both the Gothic Quarter and the waterfront, but with a more stylish, contemporary feel.

On the flip side, if relaxation is the goal before you set sail, you can’t beat a stay near Barceloneta Beach. The iconic W Barcelona rises like a sail at the edge of the Mediterranean. It’s modern, luxurious, and puts you directly on the sand. In May, you’ll be able to enjoy ocean breezes and beach walks, then head back into the city center in just a few minutes by cab.

A practical tip: Barcelona is wonderfully walkable, but traffic can be heavy. Staying central (Gothic Quarter or El Born) means you’ll maximize sightseeing without wasting time. Since you’re heading to the port afterward, all these areas are within a short ride to the cruise terminal, so convenience is baked in.