I’m staring…staring at my empty word document, my pictures from days past and I’m wondering, how do I even begin writing about this city? Barcelona. Just saying that word evokes both an emotional and physical reaction that causes my head to tilt to the right and a smile to spread across my face. I’m certain if someone where in the room with me right now they would have to ask, “What on earth are you thinking about”? My response would vary based on the audience but likely something along the lines of “I’m thinking about a place that has been the host to a few of my favorite memories of all time.” The details of those memories will remain hidden in my heart but I’m excited to share about a city whose beauty and culture create an environment where “those kinds of memories” could be born!
Like most major European cities, Barcelona has seen its share of conflict and occupation over the years. And while there are several legends about its origin ranging from Hamilcar Barca, the father of Hannibal, to Hercules himself, what we do know is that in 15 BC the Romans redrew the town as a military camp and from there it grew in wealth and consequence.
Most recently, the end of the Franco era in 1975 brought a government of republic that initiated two critical events that shaped Barcelona’s future and positioned it to be the 4th most prosperous and the 5th most visited in Europe. The Spanish ascension in the European Community and the 1992 Summer Olympics. Between these two events, infrastructure was transformed, industrial complexes removed from the shore and replaced with beaches, UNESCO World Heritage status placed on several sites and the construction of some of the largest exhibition halls in the world hosting 100+ major events a year. I won’t even comment on the FC Barcelona sports club. For my American readers, it’s one of the best soccer teams in the world with a long list of championships that include three FIFA World Cup wins.
So, let’s jump right into my Top 10 things to do in the smile evoking city. Before we start, as with any big city, be mindful of pick pockets in the crowded touristy places. Don’t let it keep you from going places and seeing things, just be smart. I’ve also included a tourist map link for your reference.
One ~ Stroll La Rambla: You absolutely have to walk the 2 kilometers connecting Placa de Catalunya and the Christopher Columbus Monument known as La Rambla. It might to surprise you to know that this amazing pedestrian walkway filled with shops and pavement cafés was once the principle sewage drain for the city. As the Spanish poet Federico Garcia Lorca once said, “La Rambla is the only street in the world which I wish would never end.”
Two ~ Be amazed at Sagrada Famlia: I’ve visited some of the most beautiful churches in the world but the experience at La Famlia left me speechless. The original architect was Fancisco Villar, who resigned only a year after starting to which, Antoni Gaudi took over. It became his passion project for the remainder of his life until he “relocated” in 1926. Because the build has been/and is today, funded exclusively by donations it is still not completed. When you visit, take the steps up one of the spires. If memory serves, it’s 426 steps to the top!
Three ~ Hang out at Placa Reial: Think of this as the Spanish equivalent of the Italian Piazza. It’s a large open square with tons of restaurants and night clubs and plays host to festivals and celebrations of all kinds.
Four ~ Eat Paella and Drink Cava: When you think of Spain and the regional beverage, I bet you think Sangria. And you would be right in terms of southern Spain, but in Barcelona, its Gava. Gava is a sparkling wine like champagne and is produced only 50 miles from the city. You might want to consider a Wine Tasting day trip to the region. And Paella…what can I say…it’s AMAZING here! Stay away from the Paellador Paella on the signs along La Rambla. It’s a frozen pre-made version that will likely disappoint.
Five ~ Selfies at Arc de Triomf: This is not a traditional arc in that it was built to celebrate a victory in battle but rather as an entrance to the 1888 Universal Exhibition. It’s more of a gateway to the future. (See featured image)
Six ~ Visit the Beaches: Barcelona has 4.2 kilometers of gorgeous sandy beached with water front “beach bars”. Because the weather is so mild you can typically count on the restaurants being open year round.
Seven ~ Shop at Mercat St Josep: This beautiful market is easy to find right off La Rambla. I found the most amazing Rioja wine there that I’ve never been able to find again. So tip being, if you taste it and you like it, buy as much as you can because you won’t find it once you get back home!
Eight ~ See the city from Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus church and the Tibdabo Amusement Park: This is a bizarre combination of basilica meets roller coaster on top of the tallest peak in Barcelona, the Tibidado Mountain. The views are amazing and if you are an amusement park sort of person, I would imagine riding the rides hanging off this perch would be mind-blowing.
Nine ~ A Gaudi tour: Take a walking tour of all things Gaudi including, Parc Guell aka: Gaudi’s Park, Colonia Guell, Casa Calvet, Cascada Fountain in Park de la Ciutadella which was inspired by Fontana de Trevi and Casa Batllo during Magic Nights.
Ten ~ Ride the Motijuic Cable Car and visit the Castle: I don’t know that it’s a castle as described by its name, but it’s actually a fort that served as a prison. For those with military interests, the museum is worth going into.
I hope that your experience in this amazing city is like mine….The kind of trip that leaves an indelible mark on your heart and gives you smiles that never fade!
You forgot Camp Nou and a Barca match⚽
I did, you are right! I didn’t just forget to write it, I forgot to do it…next time! 🙂
Hi Kim, just came back from Barcelona, been there a couple of times and absolutely agree on your top 10. Curious have you been to Portugal? I visited Lisbon and Porto and was absolutely delighted, so beautiful, colorful, affordable and the best-looking people.
Thanks Claudia!
I’ve not been to Portugal but it’s on my list. When I’m ready to go I’ll look to you for tips!! 🙂
Welcome home,
Kim
One cannot go to Barcelona and miss the Best Tapas in all of Spain at Ciudad Condal, just of the Plaza the España!!!
Great tip!! Thanks Joseph!!