Barcelona is a sunny and vibrant city associated with Gaudí's crazy creations. For a fleeting, but pleasant acquaintance with him, 1, 2 or 3 days are enough, but if there is an opportunity to allocate 4-5 days for a trip, then do it, it's worth it.
Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is a symbol of Barcelona, erected a century and a half ago with the participation of the most famous architect in the country, Antoni Gaudí. It is still being completed with funds raised by parishioners and travelers. In the idea, the building was supposed to be "openwork", "light" and "airy", and that is how it turned out. There is also a museum at the temple, which you should definitely go to.
Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is the heart of the Old Town, home to sights such as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, the main market square, the Bishop's towers and gates, the Bishop's Palace and many others. A visit to the Gothic Quarter is a journey into the Middle Ages. Narrow streets, paving stones and specific buildings make an impression and just ask to be captured in the photo. It is recommended to wander into small cafes, restaurants and shops to feel the spirit of this place.
Park Guell
On the Garcia Hill, there is the colorful Park Guell, where the construction of luxury housing was planned at the beginning of the last century. The unique park was created by the architect Gaudí; today there is a museum dedicated to his life and work. The unique park is ideal for long walks, active and passive recreation. While the adults enjoy the pillars, terraces and staircases made of colored shards, children can have fun on the large playground.
Mila House
Casa Mila, like most of the popular buildings in Barcelona, was built by Gaudí. In the past, it was home to a wealthy, distinguished politician by the name of Mil, and today it is a residential block of flats. When deciding what to see in Barcelona, you should definitely take a walk to Casa Mila to see with your own eyes the unusual shape of the building, decorated with intertwined iron algae on the balconies and abstract sculptures on the roof. The roof, by the way, is one of the best viewing platforms in the city.
Rambla street
Rambla is mostly pedestrianized, designed for comfortable walks from Plaza Catalunya to Portal de la Pau, in the center of which there is a monument to Christopher Columbus. On the way, the traveler sees cast-iron fountains, flower shops, the Quadras house, the Liceo Grand Theater, the Three Graces fountain. There are also small coffee shops and restaurants where you can have a delicious lunch and relax.
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is another masterpiece by Maestro Gaudí that was commissioned by the industrialist Batlló. The asymmetrical building, which strikes with its smooth lines and decorative multicolored ceramics, resembles a mythical monster. You can go into the house to see with your own eyes how the premises are decorated. It is rumored that many interior designers are inspired by Casa Batlló when creating their own projects. The house also houses a Gaudi style souvenir shop.
Mount Tibidabo
The list of "what to see in Barcelona" must include the highest mountain in the city of Tibidabo. It is covered with dense forest, has several equipped observation decks offering fantastic views of the whole of Barcelona. There are also important attractions: the Temple of the Sacred Heart, Luna Park, the CosmoCaixa Museum and the Fabre Observatory. Despite the abundance of points of attraction for tourists, the mountain is quiet and calm, it is suitable for a break from the bustle of the city.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross is not only proud of the whole of Barcelona, but the whole region. It took three centuries to build, now the Gothic cathedral makes you breathless and admire it for a long time in silent delight. Travelers are allowed inside, and if you're lucky, you can get into the monthly organ music concert. It is also important to look into the courtyard to look at the fountain of St. George the Victorious, stroll through the palm garden and admire the white geese that live there.
Palace of Catalan Music
The luxurious palace of Catalan music with a stained glass dome attracts the eye, and it is worth giving in to interest, coming closer and even walking inside. The interior decoration is no less striking. Tours of the palace are conducted in different languages, which allow you to see in detail the richly decorated concert halls and hear the history of the place. And it's a great success if you manage to get to the organ concert.
National Art Museum of Catalonia
The palace in the style of the Spanish Renaissance attracts the traveler, and for good reason, because it houses the National Art Museum of Catalonia. In order to get carried away with an excursion, you do not need to be an art critic, everything is popular and understandable. The halls showcase masterpieces of different styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance. During the excursion, guests are offered to spend time on the terraces, drink coffee, buy souvenirs and take memorable photos.
Spanish village
The list of “what to see in Barcelona on your first visit” must include a Spanish village. It was created in 1929 and is still active, the purpose of the creators is to acquaint visitors with a variety of architectural styles, so there are copies of many Spanish landmarks in life size. There are also craft workshops, shops, restaurants, cafes and bars.
Fountain of Montjuic
The Singing Fountain of Montjuïc is one of the symbols of the city; it is depicted on many postcards and even stamps. It was opened in 1929 as part of the International Exhibition, the creator is Carlos Buigos. The recommended time to visit is the evening, when music thunders all over the area, and powerful streams of water illuminated in different colors perform an amazing dance. And if you are lucky enough to be in Barcelona on September 26, then you should definitely visit the fireworks show.
Boqueria market
The old Boqueria market is invariably included in the must-see lists of "what to see in Barcelona". Despite the popularity of the location, food can be purchased there at reasonable prices. Meat, fish, vegetables, fruits - everything is available and pleases the traveler's eye. It is worth paying attention to delicacies and Spanish delicacies. You can also find ready-made food on the shelves.
Barceloneta
The oldest quarter of Barceloneta attracts lovers of visiting fashionable establishments, there are dozens of prestigious bars, clubs and restaurants. In addition to entertainment, the development of the area is worthy of attention. And, of course, on the coast of Barceloneta it is always pleasant to relax from the heart, enjoying the white sand and hot sun.
Grand Royal Palace
The Grand Royal Palace is an architectural ensemble that includes the following buildings:
- The Royal Palace, where the Aragonese kings lived;
- The Salo del Tunnel Palace, intended for receiving guests and meetings;
- Chapel of Santa Agata, next to which there is a monument to the Count of Barcelona Ramon Beregner III the Great;
- Watch tower;
- Lloctinent Palace;
- Clariana Padellas Palace, where the City History Museum is now located.
It is worth setting aside a whole day to visit the Grand Royal Palace.
By deciding in advance what to see in Barcelona, you will ensure yourself the opportunity to get to know this amazing city in a comfortable and leisurely way. In addition to visiting the main attractions, it is worth taking some time to walk the streets for locals to understand how they see their city. Once you get a feel for the spirit of Barcelona, you will definitely want to return.
