Like the Locals
Foodie Fav: Crema Catalan & Esqueixada
Must See Site: Parque Guell & Sagrada Familia
What to wear: Comfy sneakers, sandals, jeans, sundress, sunglasses, romper, booties, & a leather jacket
Know Before You Go
Language: Spanish & Catalan
Currency: Euro
Visa Needed: None
Best Season to Visit: April to June
Fun Fact
On April 23, Barcelona celebrates one of its biggest festivals, La Diada de San Jordi, in honor of love and literacy. It is tradition to give loved ones roses and books.
Transportation
Getting There – TAP Portugal – a low cost airline that has frequent flights from the USA to Spain & Portugal. (NYC => Barcelona $315 R/T)
Getting Around – Walking is a great way to see the city, but make sure you have a map, its not exactly a grid. If you get tired you can always take the Metro, which can get you to all the major sites pretty quickly. Choose individual rides or the T10 travel card if you are staying for a while. Need some wheels and fresh air? The Hop On Hop Off bus is your bet bet and you will definitely be able to see all the top sites while you’re at it.
Accomodation
This award winning hostel is great to make friends, see the city and stay on budget. They offer everything from pod beds and daily activities to free dinner and entertainment. If that isn’t enough to make you stay the location is close to the beach & major sites.
Private rooms and a rooftop patio means enjoying the comforts of your room after a long day of exploring or catching a sunset with some wine overlooking the city. With the Sagrada Familia and a train station close by, you’ll be able to see all the major sites in no time.
City Guide
Day 1 - Art & Architecture
- Parque Guell – aka “the city of Gaudi” is well worth the mini hike, because it has an amazing view of the city and is surrounded by colorful and whimsical art.
- Sagrada Familia – One of Gaudi’s greatest pieces, this church is ornate and timeless. Historic preservation blocks some of the artistry but it’s still a beauty. Definitely buy tickets in advanced.
- Avinguda Diagonal – one of the most important avenues in the city – full of shopping, museums & entertainment.
- Casa Mila – a UNESCO site that was designed by Gaudi
- Passeig de Gracia – This street which was once the center of the city displays opulent works like Gaudi’s Casa Batillo and Casa Amatller as well as Domenech i Montaner’s Casa Lleo-Morera.
Day 2 - City Center
- Placa de Catalunya – the city’s main square where 9 major roads meet. The plaza id lined with historic buildings and monuments
- Museums – depending on what you like there is a museum for everyone – art at the Museo Picasso, music at Palau de la Música Catalana, food at Museu de la Xocolata or culture at Museu d’Història de Catalunya
- Barcelona Cathedral – in the heart of the Gothic district this opulent church is known for its architecture and history
- La Rambla – another prominent street in the city that’s full of street performers, local vendors and historic sites.
- La Boqueria – this 100 year old market has everything from fresh fruits and veggies to wine and bull tails
DAy 3 - History & Culture
- Placa De Espana – another important sqaure in the city that is decorated with fountains, venetian pillars and a bell tower
- Parque Montjuic – take a stroll through the botanical gardens, watch light show at the Magic Fountain or ride the cable car
- Museu Olimpic i de l’Esport – if sports & the Olympics are your thing this museum will give you all the highlights of the past
- El Raval – a historic neighborhood with lots of character which can be experienced at lively bars, art galleries, boutiques & cafes
Day 4 - Relax & Unwind
- Santa Caterina – between the mosaic exterior and the rainbow of produce this market is like a kaleidoscope dream
- Barcelona Fish – created for the 1992 Olympics, this epic art piece overlooks the ocean and glimmers of glass, steel & stone
- Nova Icària and Bogatell Beach – take a break from the city life and play volleyball or relax on some warm sand while sipping some sangria.
- Parc de la Ciutadella – after the beach have a picnic in the park, visit the zoo or rent a boat on the lake
Eat It & Weep
Gaslamp District
Most Spaniards have coffee and a Spanish Omlette for breakfast. It’s not quite the affair like brunch in America, which is why 2 Californians decided to try the concept in Barcelona. Popularity has grown because of the relaxed vibe and great food.
Menu Must: Eggs Benedict & Bloody Mary
Montjuïc
Sometimes its nice to get out of the main streets and foot traffic to enjoy a good meal. This restaurant near Montjuic Park offers a view of the city and port while you sip wine and eat some classic tapas. All the ingredients come from Boqueria Market or local vendors, so you can taste the freshness.
Menu Must: Senorito Paella
Villa De Gracia
Spain was a hard place for us vegetarians because they love seafood & jamon Iberico. Luckily, vegans and vegetarians can eat their hearts out at this little bakery with treats like cookies, cakes, pies and croissants.
Menu Must: Dark Kiss – chocolate
Tours & More
Montserrat Monastery Tour W/ Cable Car & Lunch
Get Your Guide
Barcelona: Tapas Experience
Get your guide
Seafood Paella, Sangria, & Boqueria
AIRBNB EXPERIENCES
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