Written by Emily Elletson, (University of Minnesota – Twin Cities), CET Barcelona, Spring 2026
I want to give advice to anyone studying abroad in Barcelona and share what I truly think are the best things to do here. I have officially been in Barcelona for a month now, and I feel like I finally have a few things up my sleeve. From everyday coffee spots near CET to iconic sights and sunset views, these are the places that have made my experience so special so far!
Best Coffee Spot Near CET
My absolute favorite coffee place is Novella Coffee, which is right by my school, CET. This quickly became my go-to spot. The staff is incredibly friendly, the seating is perfect for getting homework done, and the coffee and food are genuinely some of the best I have had here. It is the kind of place you can stop at before class, stay for hours working, or meet friends in between lectures. If you are studying abroad in Barcelona, this spot is a must.
Must-See Sights in Barcelona
La Sagrada Familia
This is something everyone talks about, and for good reason. La Sagrada Familia is huge in person, and walking around it from different angles never gets old. Every side feels like a different view and photo opportunity. You can pay extra to go inside and do a tour, which I highly recommend doing at least once. Inside, you can visit the museum, learn about the history, and stop by the gift shop. Seeing it in person is completely different from pictures.
Ciutadella Park
Ciutadella Park is beautiful and such a peaceful escape from the city. There are ping-pong tables, open green spaces, and stunning architecture and fountains. It is a great place to walk around, read, relax, or just enjoy being outside. Being so close to CET makes it an easy spot to visit after class.
Analogin Photobooth
Analogin Photobooth is so fun and such a unique experience. You can take photobooth pictures with a friend, and it even includes coffee with your purchase. The photos make an amazing souvenir. They are printed with the date and location, which makes them extra special.
Park Güell
Park Güell is much bigger than I expected. It does get very busy, but the Gaudí art and architecture are unreal. There is music playing throughout the park, tons of paths to explore, and benches where you can sit and take everything in. The views overlooking Barcelona are incredible. I recommend going earlier in the morning or around sunset. Going with friends makes it even more fun!
Bunkers del Carmel
This is such a study abroad moment. Bunkers del Carmel gives you views of all of Barcelona, and the sunset from above is absolutely unreal. Many people come here, so the earlier you go, the better. You take a bus most of the way up, and the hike afterward is not bad at all.
Mercat de la Boqueria
Mercat de la Boqueria is so fun and definitely a must visit. There is cheap food, drinks, desserts, and anything you could imagine. The fresh juices are my favorite. They are so good and very affordable. This is also a perfect place to bring friends or family when they visit.
Arc de Triomf
Arc de Triomf feels like a welcome to Barcelona. There is so much happening around it, and it is surrounded by great spots to walk, sit, and explore. It is also close to places like Honest Greens, which makes it an easy stop for lunch after sightseeing.
Barceloneta Beach
Having the beach right there honestly feels unreal. It is so easy to walk to after class, whether it is to watch the sunset, grab pizza, swim, or just walk the boardwalk. Reading or journaling on the beach has become one of my favorite ways to slow down and enjoy being here.
Favorites
Food: Honest Greens
Honest Greens deserves a shoutout. You can go there to do homework, and the food is affordable, healthy, and filling. Their juices and coffee are also great, and there are many locations all over the city, which makes it very convenient for students.
Rooftop: Hotel Colón
Hotel Colón is a place I could not recommend enough. It has a beautiful rooftop overlooking the cathedral, and it only costs about four euros to get in. I definitely recommend going at sunset. The views are stunning, and it is a great spot to go with friends.
Final Thoughts
Barcelona makes studying abroad feel effortless. Whether it is grabbing coffee near CET, watching the sunset from Bunkers del Carmel, exploring iconic landmarks, or spending afternoons by the beach, there is always something to do. These places have already made my first month here unforgettable, and I cannot wait to keep discovering more.