Things to do in…
Barcelona
Beaches
Three beaches to explore and lounge about are the Barceloneta, San Sebastian, and Bogatell. Explore the gardens of Mossen Costa i Llobera near the coastline. There are plenty of bars and restaurants if you get hungry and these beaches are in close proximity to the city center. It is a nice escape from the craziness of Barcelona and you might even forget you are in the city when staring out into the ocean horizon. Kick your shoes off and run out to the ocean for a nice relaxing swim!
City Charm
There are many walking and biking tours of Barcelona but I chose to brave the city on my own and take the twists and turns of the city streets as they came to me. I “followed my nose” as they call it and my google maps were of great help! The architecture of Barcelona is truly remarkable and unlike anywhere else in the world. You will definitely want to walk down La Rambla de Catalunya Street that begins within the bustling downtown of Barcelona and takes you all the way to the coastal beaches. Placa de Catalunya, Placa de Sant Felip Neri, the Cathedral of Barcelona, Placa de’Isidre Nonell (kiss wall), Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi, Placa Reial are all streets you will want to wander through.
Barcelona’s famous artist and architect Antoni Gaudi has many famous works throughout the city. Gaudi’s art serves as a staple to Catalan design and history. The art designed by are of Catalan Modernism designed by Gaudi who was a famous designer and architect of Catalan Modernism. His unique buildings serve as a staple to Catalan art and design.
The top two architectural sites to not miss are Parc Guell and La Sagrada Familia. Take in the colorful mosaics of Parc Guell and city views while you revel in the detail and precision of La Sagrada Familia. I could spend hours in this basilica, one of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous works of art. Near the basilica is the Placa de Gaudi to sit and enjoy the view in.
For nightlife and flamenco dancing check out El Duende by Tablao Flamenco Cordobes, Los Tarantos, El Bombon, Harlem Jazz Club, and Pacha Club; you will not be disappointed!
For an amazing sunset view hike up to Bunkers del Carmel or sit in Parc de la Ciutadella. There will be lots of people but it is fun to observe and soak up the normalcy of enjoying something mundane such as the sun setting in Spain.
Take your time with this city, she has a lot to offer!
Monserrat Mountains
Santa Maria de Montserrat is a must do day trip from the city. This 9th century AD monastery is a pilgrimage site to visit the famous Virgin Mary statue or “Black Madonna” that was discovered by shepherds in the early 9th century which led the cave to became a monastery and has become part of Catalan national identity. Light a candle and take a moment for yourself at this beautiful Gothic and Renaissance styled monastery. If you are lucky, you will hear the beautiful voices of the boys’ choir.
Take a visit to the “Oller de Mas” medieval castle and winery circa 964 AD. The unique wine is derived from the “picapoll tinto” grape and is harvested in clay pots instead of wine barrels. This family owned winery has been passed down for 36 generations and dates back over 1000 years.