Barcelona travel - Spain

Home to soccer enthusiasts, architecture geeks, and food fanatics, Barcelona is a lively city that has something for everyone. With several museums, interesting buildings, and parks, one can hardly get bored of the city.

Barcelona was home to famous architect Antoni Gaudi, and most of the famous structural works in the city can be attributed to his vision. In a way, the genius architect helped shape Barcelona’s vivid and peculiar skyline that is globally famous today. His concept involved using flowing lines and curves with the incorporation of nature in his designs.

Places to Visit

Most of the major attractions in the city are the magnificent monuments designed by Gaudi.

1.    La Sagrada Familia

This is where your Barcelona exploration feat begins. This cathedral looks straight out of a fairytale due to its magnificent tall towers. The chief architect of the monument, Antoni Gaudi, was inspired by natural temple architecture and designed the monument accordingly. The construction of the cathedral is, however, not completed yet. To avoid long queues, buy tickets online and reach early in the morning. 

2.    Park Güell

When in Barcelona, you cannot miss visiting Park Güell, which is a former residential park designed by Antoni Gaudi. Almost a sixth of the hill’s green patch was used to build the park and is spread over a huge area. The park consists of flowy structures, colorful mosaic tiles, and stone pergolas that are peculiarly inspired by nature. The residential neighborhoods are inspired by Britain, and the park offers a panoramic view when you reach the top.

3.    Picasso Museum of Barcelona

If you are an art enthusiast, you must make a stop at this museum that showcases over 4,000 artworks of the famous painter. Located in the district La Ribera, this museum covers three storeys and is one of the most popular tourist attractions.

4.    Casa Mila and Casa Batllo

These buildings are also designed by Antoni Gaudi and are located on the main roads of the city. Both are residential flats that were designed in different styles. However, both retain the signature style of Antoni Gaudi, which comprises flowing lines and a modernist architectural style. Casa Batllo was commissioned by a rich textile merchant named Josep Batlló i Casanovas. Casa Mila is comparatively curvier and a masterpiece by Gaudi.

5.    Camp Nou Stadium

The famous soccer stadium, Camp Nou in Barcelona is unmissable. Since many international matches and leagues are held in this stadium, it is one of the main attractions for soccer enthusiasts who wish to watch a Barca match or at least visit the stadium once in life. You can book a tour of the FC Barcelona stadium, where you can see the trophies, dressing rooms, and the inner parts.

Getting Around Barcelona - Transportation

The transportation system in Barcelona is well-organized and connected to the farthest points of the city. The best way to get around in Barcelona is by taking the metro, train, tram, or bus. These fall under the “Autoritat del Transport Metropolità”, which is also the main transportation service of the city. If you are visiting the city for just a few days, the best option is to buy the “Hola BCN” day ticket. Depending on the validity you choose, you will be charged 7.60 to 8.10 euros per day.

Food and Famous Dishes

Barcelona offers some of the best Spanish food you can eat in the country. When in the city, you cannot miss out on Spanish tapas, which are a range of mini appetizers often served with alcohol. You can choose between various types of tapas in a bar, some of which include bombas (tiny potato croquettes), montaditos (open sandwiches), and pulpo a la Gallega (octopus and potatoes).

Don’t miss out on the delicious paella, which is a famous traditional Spanish dish. Originally from the Valencia region, this dish comprises rice, seafood, vegetables, and saffron. Next, look for churros that are sold as street food; you can easily find a vendor at every crowded corner. Finish your day by sipping on sangria, which is a sweet alcoholic drink mixed with fruits and quite famous in Spain.