“Let’s pretend we’re dancing in the streets of Barcelona…” –Ed Sheeran
Barcelona is definitely one of our favorite cities we have been lucky enough to visit! It is full of history, unique architecture, and delicious food. What more could you want? In this post, we will be sharing the top 10 sights that you should NOT miss on your visit to this beautiful city. We can't wait to visit again someday!
The Sagrada Família is one of the most popular sights in Barcelona for a reason. Book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment because time slots often sell out. Honestly, it is hard to describe this place in words…It is simply magnificent and something you need to experience with your own eyes. While it opened in 2010, the project is not yet complete! Construction started nearly 150 years ago and they are aiming to finish the long-stalled project by 2026. Do you think they will make that deadline?
2. Park Güell
Park Güell looks like some kind of crazy gingerbread village come to life, and it’s so much fun to explore! Gaudí lived in his house at Park Güell with his family until he died in 1926.
Fun Fact: It originally wasn’t going to be a park, it was going to be a modern housing development away from the craziness of the rest of the city. Clearly, that plan was unsuccessful!
3. Casa Milà (La Pedrera) and Casa Batlló
These architectural works are different because they make up Gaudí's most famous civic creations. Influenced by nature, they have no straight lines (because they don’t exist in nature according to him).
Fun Fact: Some individuals, like writer Ana Viladomiu, refused to be paid to move out when the buildings became tourist hot spots. She still lives there today! Check out her story, here.
4. Old bull fighting arena (La Monumental)
This is a cool place to visit since it was the last operational bull fighting arena in the city, but it has now been turned into a shopping mall. However, the best feature is the view from the roof! You can enjoy amazing panoramic views of Barcelona, including the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya right across the way.
*There are some nice restaurants on the roof! We had delicious pasta at La Tagliatella.
5. Las Ramblas
Las Ramblas is a tree-lined pedestrian street connecting Plaça de Catalunya with the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell. There are many restaurants, hotels, and street performers of all types! It's sometimes referred to as "the heart of Barcelona."
*Tapas time? We stopped at Louro and they had great gourmet tapas.
6. The Gothic Quarter
We absolutely LOVE exploring the historic gothic quarters of European cities. We don’t say this lightly, but Barcelona’s gothic quarter is our favorite to date. The narrow, winding medieval streets are full of trendy shops, restaurants, bars, and much more! The beautiful Cathedral of Barcelona is also in this part of town. It’s easy to get lost in the labyrinth, so be sure to take breaks in some of the peaceful squares.
*Want a pizza break? Check out Pizzeria Da Nanni Barcelona.
*Visit Manna Gelats for crepes, gelato, and other delicious treats!
The architecture of this museum is worth seeing on its own! However, the museum also has the largest collection of Romanesque art in the world.
This is an amazing market to check out if you are looking to buy some local items! They sell some of the freshest fruit, vegetables and seafood in Barcelona.
9. The Magic Fountain
The magic fountain is a spectacular display of color, light, music, and water effects. If you have ever seen the Bellagio fountains in Vegas, this is similar! It’s located in front of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. On days that the fountain is operating, there are several shows to choose from. Make sure to confirm that the schedule matches your plans before you go!
10. Barceloneta Beach and the boardwalk
If you manage to knock all of these off the list, stop by this beautiful beach for some relaxation time!
Do you have a favorite place in Barcelona we didn't mention? Let us know in the comments!
Thanks for reading!
-Nikki + Pam
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