The peppy beach city of Barcelona embraces everybody, be it first-timers or repeat tourists, young or old, solo or group. It is like a theme park in itself with a variety of
Here is a quick guide to the best bit of Barcelona, Spain, so that you can visit these landmarks and make the most of this city.
Plaça d’Espanya
This is where the 1992 Olympics were held in Barcelona. The large
Best time to visit is in the evenings. You can catch a bus to go to the top of Montjuic hill. There is Fort Montjuic here but there is nothing interesting to see inside the fort. Instead walk to the side of the fort towards the side of the sea and you will find the sprawling port of Barcelona. As the sun sets, you can see the lights of the port come to life and the whole place starts glowing in the sea.
While returning, take the bus back to Plaça d’Espanya. Every night, 9 pm onwards there is a spectacular display of musical fountain at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. Look up the timings as it depends on the season of the year.
Plaça Catalunya
This is a popular plaza where a lot of economic activity happens. On a lazy afternoon, you can feed pigeons in the centre of the plaza or indulge in shopping as there is a multitude of shops. There are also, a lot of eateries ranging from doner kebabs, cafes, fast food restaurants and more. From here, walk down the famous La Rambla.
La Rambla
La Rambla is a tree-lined street starting from Plaça Catalunya until the pillar of Christopher Colombus at Port Vell. There are museums, cafes, restaurants, clothing stores, and souvenir shops on both the sides of the street. There are artists drawing caricatures, painters, and realistic street statues which make the atmosphere fun. Do not forget to visit the famous market called La Boqueria.
Barri Gotic
As you walk down La Rambla, you will find cobblestoned alleys to your left. This network of streets is the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. This medieval era neighbourhood has residential buildings, pubs, bars, open air cafes, restaurants, boutique shops and more. It is a very pleasant experience to spend your time here in the evenings. I strongly recommend eating in any restaurant or café of your choice here.
You must visit the Barcelona Cathedral in Barri Gotic. Another fine example of gothic style architecture.
In one of the maze-like alleyways is the Picasso Museum. If you are an art enthusiast, then you should visit this place. Check their website before hand to see when there is free entry.
Sagrada Familia
This basilica has been under construction since 1882. It is one of Antoni Gaudi’s masterpieces. The architecture of this basilica is one of a kind and the two exterior façades of the cathedral are different from each other. Inside the basilica as the architecture is equally marvellous.
If you
Barceloneta
The seaside promenade here is perfect for a stroll or cycling. The beach is lined with cafes and luxury hotels. You can play beach volleyball, go paddle boarding, sunbathe, take a dip or just watch the turquoise blue water of the Mediterranean. If you have the time and money, rent a yacht and chill in the sea.
Torre Agbar
Torre Agbar is a multi-storey building famous for the colourful display of lights on its wall. There are 1000s of LED lights that are built in to the exterior façade of the building which changes colours and patterns. Every night at 8 pm this place comes to life all through the night!
Right beside Torre Agbar a few metres away is a place called BruumRuum. Here, you can scream in to a sensor. Based on the intensity of the noise produced, LED lights installed in the floor change colours and patterns.
Tibidabo
This is an amusement park perched on top of the Tibidabo hill overlooking the city of Barcelona. Go on a ride in the roller coaster or Ferris wheel and experience edge of the seat action.
The church that you see here is the Sagrat Cor church. The statue of Jesus Christ on top of the church is beautiful and the view of the city from the walls of the church is awesome.
You can easily cover all these places on a short holiday in Barcelona. In case you have more time in your hands, then refer to this guide to know more landmarks to visit in Barcelona.
A great city like Barcelona definitely deserves week-long love rather than a quick visit. Even if you are there for a few days, I am sure, you will be waiting to return to make the most of everything that Barcelona has to offer.
What are you Barcelona highlights? Let us know in the comment section below. Or book your beachside Barcelona escape here.
