What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Barcelona?

Architecture, culture, food, Gaudí, Picasso, Barça?

All of the above?

The dynamic capital of Catalunya truly is amazing any time of day or night and all year round. It has so much to offer that you need at least a few days to take it all in and enjoy it to the max.

I had the wonderful opportunity to visit during my first European tour many years ago and was simply smitten from the moment I arrived. It won me over. It was as if I had returned home, a place where my heart belonged.

I can simply close my eyes and am transported there immediately. Barcelona, the jewel on the Mediterranean is absolutely one of my favorite cities in the world!

 

So what is there to see and do? So much! Opportunities abound 🙂

Let me show you some of my favorite places around.

 

Best view in town: El Tibidado

Whenever you are at a new location, always look for the highest point, mountain or building. In this case El Tibidado is where you can admire the city and the coastline from above. It will simply take your breath away!

 

The symbol of the city and unfinished masterpiece: La Sagrada Familia

This temple of the Holy Family is an UNESCO world heritage site as well as architect Antonio Gaudí’s most ambitious project which was never completed.

However, a century later, work and restoration has resumed and according to estimates, it should be completed in a decade from now.

No visit to Barcelona would be complete without a stop at La Sagrada Familia, a sacred and stunning construction.

Make sure you reserve some time for it. It will leave you in awe and remain in your memory, forever!

 

A walk in an extraordinary park: Parc Güell

Go for an urban adventure and wander through spectacular Parc Güell, another of Gaudí’s fantastic works of art. It is a real feast for the eye. Feel like a kid again and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city even if only for a little while 🙂

 

Barri Gòtic

The Gothic Quarter is located right in the center of the old city. Many buildings date back to the medieval ages and remnants of its past are still standing today including the Roman Wall.

The winding alleyways of Barri Gòtic open into squares where crowds gather or pass by.

There are many attractions found there among them are:

Barcelona Cathedral

Picasso Museum 

And beautiful architecture can be admired, such as the bridge on Carrer del Bisbe.

 

When in Barcelona, do as the locals: Walk down La Rambla

Start at Plaça de Catalunya at the north tip. Stroll through this pedestrian artery while browsing shops, smell fresh flowers, stop for coffee or drink at a local bar, have a bite at a restaurant and slowly make your way to the Port.

La Rambla ends at Columbus Monument facing the Mediterranean. Sit down at a bench to recharge batteries!

*A Word of caution* It is very important to mention that you should take necessary precautions and watch out for pickpockets as it is always crowded. Bring only what you need and leave valuables where you are staying. It is quite enjoyable to travel light! If you love people watching, then this is THE best place to go to!

 

Hungry? Feed your senses and eat your way through La Boquería

Its official name is Mercat de Sant Josep; however a local knows it as La Boquería and really is a foodie’s paradise.

All your senses will come alive and your taste buds will be tantalized once you enter this legendary and highly internationally acclaimed market.

There you will find anything under the sun, from fresh fruits and vegetables to succulent delicacies, specialties from and around the area such as meats, cheeses and more, so much more!

 

Travel back in time and reach the top of Montjuïc Park

Perched high above the city, Montjuïc Park can be easily reached via cable car or tourist bus. The pleasant ride offers visitors unforgettable views of Barcelona and the sea.

 

History and art lovers have to visit Montjuïc Castle

Built in the 17^th century, Montjuïc Castle is an old military fortress which played an important role in Catalan history. It guarded the city from invasions and attacks from troops sent by the King of Spain.

Ultimately, it resulted in the loss of the Spanish Forces before the proud Catalans who put an end to the Battle of Montjuïc. It makes you appreciate the city’s roots and what it stands for!

 

Palau Nacional

The Palau Nacional is a spectacular building which houses the Museu Nacional D’Art De Catalunya

One of Europe’s most extensive and amazing collections of paintings and sculptures from several time periods and also Catalan art are found here. Art and culture lovers will be delighted, inspired and impressed!

 

Poble Espanyol

Is an open air museum where recreations of full-scale, typical Spanish village buildings, houses and shops were built in 1929 just in time for the Barcelona International Exposition. Go back in time and wander through its narrow streets.

All are located within Montjuïc Park and definitely worth visiting! At least half a day is needed to explore this area.

 

Get your game on! Football and FCB Barcelona aficionados meet at one address: Camp Nou

The largest Football Stadium in Europe is home to one of the best and most loved teams in the world (as well as my favorite team): Football Club Barcelona or FCB or simply Barça.

Being inside this sports temple is just unbelievable. Being present during a match is even more exhilarating!

You can feel the energy, excitement and electricity in the air. A goal and triumph makes every single cell of your body vibrate along with those of nearly 100 000 other fans on location and around the world!

 

After a long day of sightseeing, there is no better place to relax and reenergize body and mind than the sea: La Barceloneta

When the sun goes down, the city comes alive and the place to be is definitely at the beach side, more specifically at La Barceloneta.

Get ready to live up and experience the legendary Catalan nightlife at some of the best seaside bars and restaurants 🙂

 

How to travel around town?

The Barcelona Card is the best option to travel to, from and around the city. It is available for 2 to 5 days which gives you access to unlimited rides on buses, subway and offers many discounts.

For more information and rates check out: www.barcelonaturisme.com

 

Where to stay?

Stay at a private property and experience Barcelona like a local! You can pick a GowithOh apartment in the district you like the most: in Barri Gòtic, close to Montjuïc or neighboring La Sagrada Familia.

 

Need more information to plan your visit, need more ideas for your itinerary?

Download a Barcelona free guide here.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact the friendly people at Go With Oh 🙂

You can reach them on the following Social Media accounts:

Website: http://www.gowithoh.com

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Now over to you!

Tell me,

Have you ever been to Barcelona?

If so, what are YOUR favorite places?

Or

Which ones would you like to visit?

 

If you have any fun stories to share I want to read all about it.

Just leave it in the comments section and include any links to photos. I’m really curious!

Fins aviat! (See you soon)

Love always,

Kay 🙂

 

I teamed up with Go With Oh, wrote and edited the entire article.

As always, opinions are and always will be my own.

By the way, Barcelona is very deep in my heart. I could talk hours upon hours nonstop about it and maybe even share a few hilarious stories, trust me I do have some. Please remind me to tell you the details 🙂