The most vibrant city of Spain, Barcelona conjures up thoughts of tapas, sangria, and a lively vibe. Here are some of the top things to do –
Las Ramblas
The most famous street for shopping, it has a lot of restaurants and eateries, touristy shops, branded clothes stores, performing artists, etc. Walk down the street, eat a gelato, enjoy the hustle and bustle. This is a street performer below.
Sagrada Familia
The most famous monument of Barcelona. This basilica is built by the famous architect Antonio Gaudi, he died before he could finish it. It is supposed to be completed in 2030, so if you haven’t seen it, come when it’s done! It means ‘Holy Family’. TIP: long lines to go inside, buy a ticket in advance. or just take photos from outside for free!
Park Guell
Another of Gaudi’s creations, it was a housing complex. Entry is free to the general areas of the park, but all the good stuff is in the monument zone which costs 7 eur to enter. (I suggest you shell out for this). You can climb up the stairs to the top for good views of the city.
Gothic Quarter
This is a good area to walk around and take photos. there are free walking tours at 10am and 4pm from Plaza Catalunya if you are interested to know more of the history. There are singers and musicians in the squares.
Montjuic mountain and cable car
Good views of the city and a cable car ride. There is Montjuic castle but not much to see inside, save your 5 eur. Montjuic is good for walking trails.
Barceloneta beach
Its got a really long promenade to walk, cycle or skate. Nice place for an evening stroll and people watching. Lots of restaurants along the boardwalk.
7. Maritime Museum
I’m not a big fan of museums, but this one turned out to be quite interesting. Very well- designed audio visual tour. A whole ship inside the museum. EUR 7 tickets. TIP: Sundays after 3pm is free entry!
8. Other Gaudi buldings
If you like Gaudi’s architecture, do what I like to call a self Gaud-ed tour. Other famous buildings by Gaudi are Casa Milo and Casa Battlo. I saw Casa Battlo from the outside, didn’t want to pay EUR 25 to go inside, plus there was a long line. It’s called ‘dragon house’ because of the scaly roof.
‘Hola’ is hello and ‘Gracias’ is thank you in Spanish… Enjoy your visit!
Gypsea Trip 