Beaches, parks, architecture, and flamenco are all wrapped up into one breath-taking city. Barcelona is one of those places that you need multiple days to fully see all of the highlights and to only begin to delve nooks and crannies of.
I spent three days there and barely scratched the surface. As a city that is located on the beach and is pretty close to the Mountains of Montserrat, there is a ton to do! Not to mention all of the history and architectural wonders to explore.
Facts:
- The language spoken in Barcelona is Catalan though most everyone also speaks Spanish
- Antoni Gaudi played a huge role in the city’s architecture scene
- The 1992 summer Olympics were held in Barcelona and many of the sites used are still attractions or venues used today
- Barcelona is considered one of the best beach cities in the world, although it’s beaches were artificially made.
- Barcelona was almost home to the Eiffel Tower but was rejected for being “too radical”
- It’s home to the largest soccer stadium in Europe
- About 10% of Barcelona consists of parks, 68 to be exact. And they’re beautiful!
What to do:
- Eat at Mercado de la Boqueria. This market is a gallery of all things Spanish cuisine. Grab a few tapas as you make your way through the market or find a chair at one of their small little restaurants inside. Don’t forget to get a pitcher of sangria!
- Marvel through Park Guell, another Guadi masterpiece. This time the famous artist tried his hand at a more naturalist approach.
- See a Flamenco show. The music, the colors, the passion, seeing a flamenco show was one of my favorite things that I did in Spain. Flamenco isn’t as popular in Barcelona as it is in other parts of Spain, but it’s still a must!
What to eat:
- Paella: a dish of rice, saffron, meat or seafood, cooked in a large pan. One of my favorite dishes ever!
- Seafood is prevalent in the Spanish diet and since Barcelona is right on the coast, theirs is divine. Eat your fill!
- Tapas are essentially a variety of appetizers or small portions, meaning you can eat a little of a lot of things! Many venues in Barcelona and across Spain provide tapas in which you choose as many as you want and then “pay by sticks” later. One stick equals one tapa. Basically the honor system. Not sure if I’d trust that in the U.S.
Best views:
- Tibidabo: a bit of a trek but worth the journey. On your way up you’ll pass through one of Barcelona’s wealthiest neighborhoods before feasting your eyes on one of the most comprehensive views of Barcelona.
- Eclipse Bar at the W Hotel: one of the swankiest of spots to take in Barcelona, grab a (pricy) drink and take in the view. Try not to over indulge yourself at this luxurious and modern space, your wallet will thank you.
- Montjuic Park is one of the largest parks in Spain and renders one of the best views of the city. It’s a little tricky to get to, but worth it.
Tips for enjoying the city:
- Barcelona is best seen on foot so get your comfy (but cute) shoes on and get to walking!
- Avoid Las Ramblas, the most famous street in Barcelona, full of over-priced souvenirs, sub-par restaurants, and WAY too many people. #notworthit
- Eat like the locals eat. Bar hop and enjoy some tasty tapas before setting out for your actual dinner around 10pm. Although this is a little later than I’d usually like to eat dinner, this is a great way to enjoy the vibrance of the city
Where to stay:
- The Gothic Quarter: a mix of old and new with a labyrinth of quaint narrow streets. Highlights of the area are the Barcelona Cathedral, Roman architecture, and fantastic restaurants and bars.
- El Born: a little touristy but a true gem of a neighborhood in the heart of the old city. Check out the local little shops, artisan crafts, and street art and you’ll be sure to fall in love.
- Barceloneta: a prideful little neighborhood never too far from the sand and surf. Barceloneta has a great local vibe and wants to keep it that way. If you stay in this area, respect the locals and support the small family run businesses and don’t act too much like an obnoxious tourist!
How to get around:
- Taxis are easy to snag and all use a meter
- Uber isn’t a thing
- The metro is safe and easy to use