Since hosting the Summer Olympics in 1992, Barcelona has been on the hot list of European destinations. It may be on YOUR bucket list of places to travel in Europe as well. Here’s a little of what you need to know.
Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain and definitely its most metropolitan. Barcelona has been breaking ground in art, architecture and style since the late 19th century. The variety of sites to be seen provide a feast for the eyes – with probably the most popular the La Sagrada Familia, an unfinished masterpiece of Antoni Gaudi.
This Spanish city is known to have one of the greatest concentrations of gothic architecture in Europe. So if that’s your preferred form of historical buildings….you’ll be in heaven!
While Barcelona is a large city with many districts, the sites that most tourists want to see are found in a handful of areas that mostly flow into one another. You can start on the waterfront at Port Vell (means Old Port), work your way towards La Rambla, Barcelona’s most famous boulevard and eventually end in the Barri Gotic, the oldest part of Barcelona containing many historic sites and museums.
A Sampling of Sites to See
- La Sagrada Familia – Start your visit in the church, then take an elevator that ascends one of the massive church spires for a great view of the city and the ongoing church construction. Also, don’t miss the Gaudi House Museum located in the basement of the Passion facade.
- Picasso Museum and walking tour - Picasso lovers, this is the tour for you. See the places the famous artist frequented in Barcelona during your walking tour before entering Barcelona’s most visited museum. This walking tour will show you the Bohemian Barcelona in which Picasso lived.
- Montserrat and the Monestir de Montserrat - This day trip from Barcelona will be your best opportunity to enjoy some awesome scenery. The monastery can be reached by a thrilling cable car ride up the mountain. Also, consider scheduling a hot air balloon ride for truly unique vistas.
- Las Ramblas- The heart and central hub of Barcelona, these tree-lined streets offer pleasant strolls past remarkably diverse architectural styles. Check out the statue of Christopher Columbus, relax in an outdoor cafe and take in a little shopping and street entertainment.
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Other Delights
I could go on and on with sites to see. As well as museums and architectural wonders, Barcelona has so much more to offer. It’s nightlife can’t be beat. While this city has the reputation as being a “party town”, Barcelona has morphed into a trendy scene of designer restaurants and clubs in more recent years. If you are a lover of the performing arts and theater, you won’t be disappointed. And if shopping is your style, you’ll find everything from quirky little traditional shops to larger, high-end options. Those seeking gastronomic adventures will enjoy delicious mediterranean fare, cocina de mercado (whatever is in season) and local specialties. Note: If you have a sweet tooth, crema catalana (a cinnamon- and lemon-flavored custard) is a must for dessert.
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So when you think about European travel, add Barcelona to your list of places to consider. It’s many layers are fun to “peel back” and discover. It can be visited in a few days as part of a European tour or unto itself with lots of time to really soak in the city and this amazing area of Spain.
