10 Magical Experiences to Have in Barcelona
Indulge in the Tastes, Sights and Intoxicating Experiences of Barcelona
Barcelona is the kind of city late afternoon daydreams are made of. While you’re trapped at your desk or stuck in rush hour traffic, your mind might wander to thoughts of a town where tapas are abundant and delicious, people express themselves through dance, and sunsets cast golden rays over unique architecture.
One day you’ll make a trip to this magical city a reality — and when you do, you should be sure to tick off these top things to do in Barcelona.
Stroll Around the Dreamy Parc Guell
Parc Guell is one of the many spaces in Barcelona where Antoni Gaudi let his imagination run wild. The whimsical park is what happens when a boundlessly creative architect takes up landscape gardening. The original concept was to build a small city for rich people, however the project was a commercial failure and was eventually reincarnated as a major tourist attraction.
The Hansel and Gretel houses, mosaics and twisting stoneworks all bear Gaudi’s signature flair and make visiting the park a charming and slightly surreal experience.
Feast — Literally and Visually — at the Mercat de la Boqueria (Boqueria Market)
Right in the heart of Barcelona, this food market overflows with sights, smells and taste sensations waiting to be had. Sausages, cheese and gigantic hams are bookended by produce stalls displaying the colorful fruit and vegetables from the region.
Some stalls provide a modest place to eat lunch, and grabbing a meal here is one of the best ways to sample some of Catalonia’s gastronomical specialties.
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Get Lost in the Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter)
Just off the large pedestrian strip of Las Ramblas is the atmospheric Gothic Quarter, one of the best places to visit in Barcelona. The narrow, cobblestone lanes will take you on a walk down history lane. The area is full of historical delights, from 14th century Gothic churches to remnants of Roman times.
There are also bars and restaurants on nearly every corner, so you won’t have to look far to find somewhere to rest your feet after exploring.
If you’re visiting Spain on a budget, one of the ways you can save money in expensive Barcelona is by taking a free walking tour of the Gothic Quarter.
Pay a Visit to the Picasso Museum
Topping lists of what to see in Barcelona is the Museu Picasso, which houses one of the most extensive collections of Pablo Picasso’s works – 4,251 pieces in total. The permanent collection pays homage to the formative years of the Spanish artist, with the vast number of works revealing Picasso’s developing genius. The artworks also display Picasso’s deep and enduring relationship with Barcelona.
Marvel at La Sagrada Familia
As one of the most famous and unique sights in Spain, taking a peek at the Sagrada Familia is one of the most interesting things to do in Barcelona. The church was Gaudi’s obsession, and one of the final buildings he worked on before his death. He poured his own funds into the project in an attempt to complete it, but never succeeded.
It still stands unfinished today — work has been going on for nearly a century now, and estimates say it may not be complete until 2040.
The church is distinctive for its ambitiously high towers and curved silhouette (Gaudi had a strong dislike of straight lines). Whether you like it or not, you won’t be able to stop yourself from gawping in awe at this building.
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Be ‘Sea’duced by Seafood
From vibrant red Palamos prawns to delectable Galician mussels, Barcelona’s cuisine takes the bounty of seafood offered up by the Mediterranean sea and turns it into dish after outstanding dish. There are a plethora of fine seafood restaurants in Barcelona — some of the best are Botafumeiro, La Paradeta and La Barceloneta.
Alternatively, you can ask a local for a recommendation and you’ll be pointed straight to the nearest restaurant serving up tasty seafood and distinctive Catalan flavors.
Take a Dip in the Mediterranean
Barcelona features several beautiful beaches. During any Barcelona holiday, it is almost mandatory to take some time out to bask on the golden sand and take a dip in the blue Mediterranean waters.
Nova Icaria is one of the more peaceful spots, ideal for families or visitors who prefer a more low key environment, while la Barceloneta has an upbeat party vibe and plenty of restaurants where you can feast after swimming.
Join in the Party at a Local Festival
Barcelona loves a good party, which may be why there are so many exciting local festivals to take part in. Time-honored traditions such as building human castles (castellers), dashing through fire (correfoc) and the Sardana dance make each festival a spectacle. And then, of course, there’s free-flowing sangria, calimocho and cerveza that keeps the party going until sunrise.
The Festa de la Merece in September and the Festival of Sant Joan that takes place on the shortest night of the year are two events not to be missed.
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Enjoy an Evening Cocktail on a Terrace
The many outdoor bars and cafes in the city are ideal for enjoying a cold drink in the evening light, after a long day of exploring. This is also great chance to sample pinchos, mouth-sized tapas. Mercat Princesa, 360 Terrace and Palau Dalmases Espai Barroc are all top spots for a glass of cava or a cocktail and a bit of people-watching.
Follow Your Nose, and See Where It Goes! (As in, Explore on Foot)
Strolling around Barcelona on foot will take you off the well-trodden tourist trail beaten down by tour buses. Each district of Barcelona has its own distinct charm. Wandering through the streets will allow you to savor the steady thrum of life taking place in the picturesque lanes and squares.
The Parc de Joan Miro and Parc de la Ciutadella are both great pit stops, and it’s worth passing by the Montjuic Castle. The Gracia neighborhood has some spectacular views of the city, while El Born’s tangle of cobblestone streets hide some stylish boutiques where you can get your shopping fix. There’s plenty to discover — just put on your most comfortable pair of shoes and set off!
