The Buzz about Barcelona
The interlaced web of cobblestone passageways that thread through the city of Barcelona is easy to get lost in - and that's precisely what makes it so alluring. This Mediterranean seaside port city has an enchanting bohemian charm, yet is also vibrantly bold about its quirky art and architecture.
There's so much to see and you'll find the city to be buzzing with eccentricity.
An early morning jog along the Mediterranean seaside is a great way to start the day, followed by exploring the different neighborhoods scattered throughout the city. Take a moment to wander through the Gothic District, immerse yourself in basque-style tapas, and stumble upon fascinating encounters with Gaudi's whimsical masterpieces. There are some great places to watch the colors of the city change as sunset falls - Plaça Reial, the rooftop of Casa Milá, Park Guell, or from the dome of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. You won't need a roadmap to find your most memorable moments.
Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic)
At the heart of Barcelona is a maze-like area that with narrow streets that reveal picturesque views at every turn. The authentic architecture, vintage shops and boutiques, cafes, and bars make this a lovely area to get lost in and the perfect place to start your walking tour.
Las Ramblas
This colorful, tree-lined pedestrian walkway is Barcelona's famous main boulevard. It's filled with numerous shops, restaurants and lots of fun things to see and do.
Plaça Reial
Right off of Las Ramblas and tucked in the Gothic Quarter is a beautiful plaza filled with palm trees. It's a great place to wind down for a beer or wine, and be entertained from people watching or the various acts performed by the local street artists.
El Born
A mesmerizing web of small alleys and narrow streets make this artistic district a fantastic place to meander and explore aimlessly. Charming boutiques of artists and designers, art exhibitions, and small restaurants blend together the eclectic and contemporary character of Barcelona.
Parc de la Ciutadella
The beautiful fountain, ponds, waterfalls, and great monuments make this park a pleasant place to enjoy greenery and have a peaceful stroll. There is also a small lake where you can take out boats.
Passeig de Gracia
The famous shopping street of Barcelona is classy and elegant, with high-end designer stores and plenty of restaurants to choose from. It's also where two famous works of Gaudi are located.
Casa Batllo
The brave and crazy genius of Antoni Gaudi is prominently displayed in this masterpiece. The skeletal-like craftsmanship adorn the exterior walls and balconies of the dream house, and the fascinating details of the swirling ceiling vortex transports you to Gaudi's imaginary world. It's also quite a sight when the house is illuminated at night.
Casa Milá, La Pedrera
Just a 5 block walk from Casa Batllo is another fascinating masterpiece by Gaudi that demonstrates his bewildering imagination and workmanship. The undulating waves of the walls and balconies will capture your attention from all angles. The ambience of the rooftop at dusk is enchanting.
Park Guell
This magical park laid with colorful mosaic tiles and amazing structures also boasts a panoramic view of Barcelona.
La Sagrada Familia Basilica
Gaudi's stunning vision of architecture, brilliant imagination, and engineering genius is greatly celebrated here in this masterpiece. The basilica has entered its final stage of construction, after over 100 years since the foundation stone was laid.
Palau de la Musica Orfeo Catala
Catch the splendor of this grand place by watching a flamenco show here in the evening. The theater is spectacular with impressive mosaic work and decorative stained glass.
Camp Nou
Whether or not you are a fútbol fan, it's hard not to get caught up in the excitement and marvel at the passion for the beloved FC Barcelona team. Both the stadium and museum are massive and impressive.
W Hotel
This iconic tower structure that stands above Barcelona is in a superb location by the water. Higher floors grant better views, the pool area is pumping with music, and the lounges are a great place to absorb the energy.
Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
If it happens to be a rainy day, this is the perfect place to spend the day. This art museum has a fascinating collection of art that takes you on a trip through Catalunya history and religion. Head towards the rooftop terrace at the top of the magnificent dome around the evening to enjoy the sunset as it falls upon the city. It makes a magical ending to your Barcelona experience.
Photography Credits:
Nuzhat Aziz, Chuck Bandel, Nacho Martínez Barrio, Oscar Cardoso, Brandon Donnelly, Electrophile, Eugene Fedotenkov, Alexander Friedrich, Pavel Gonevski, Heidrun Homburg, Francesco Riccardo Iacomino, Visakhan Kattappuram, Andrzej Koliba, Pawel Lapinski, Miguel Martín, Andrea Mazzocchetti, Fan Meng, Adam Myszkowski, Andrey Omelyanchuk, Jimbos Padrós, Fede Ranghino, Greg Robinso, Roger, Randy Scherkenbach, Marc Schmittbuhl, Ammar Shaban, Andras Solyom, Alejandro Tejada, Isidre Marco Tuset, Warren Weinstein, Christos Zoumides
