Barcelona: The Incredible Top Eight Sights You Must See
June 26, 2015
I didn’t think it was possible for a place to encompass such diverse beauty. While I had high expectations for Barcelona, I assumed its beach-y vibe would carry itself throughout every street. Oh my, a rookie assumption. Barcelona feels like a million different cities meshed into one. From the quaint cobble-stoned old towns and historic artistic villages all the way to the towering urban buildings lining a boardwalk surrounded by white sand, Barcelona is a mosaic of interest.
No wonder it’s such a highly rated vacation hot spot for Europeans and Americans alike! Whether you’re a museum-loving urbanite or a sun-tanned beach bum, you’ll be able to find it all here on the Mediterranean coast. Plan to spend a few days in this magnificent city, I would even go as far as a whole week. Although the public transportation system is fantastic, the city is still large and you’ll need more than 24 hours to explore every sparkling crevice and alley.
In fact, this was the first trip I’ve taken where I wasn’t ready to leave after a few days. I probably could have lived out of my suitcase another month or so if it meant I could cruise around this metropolitan for just a little longer. Alas, I arrived back home, sunburned skin and glowing heart, to share the not-to-be-missed attractions of this gem by the sea.
Gothic Quarter Treats
Gothic Quarter
Full of winding streets and historical architecture, the Gothic Quarter is known for quaint cafes as well as amusing street performers and interesting characters. Spend time meandering through the high end shops but also make sure to stop and view the astounding Catherdal in the center of the quarter. Dark chocolate is always the way to my heart!
Picasso Museum/Chocolate Museum
Get an early start to your day in the Gothic Quarter and head over to the Picasso Museum. This beautifully constructed museum which contains a collection of Picasso’s work through the decades as well as traveling exhibits, which currently includes Dali. If you’re looking for a little more history, head on down to the Chocolate Museum for a sweet snack and a brief look of the history of the cocoa bean!
Park Guell
This expansive art park is one of the major works of Gaudi, the artist who helped shaped the cultural presence of Barcelona. It includes numerous sculptures and mosaic designs that were to be enjoyed by the city’s inhabitants. Purchase your tickets ahead of time and explore the gardens surrounding the park before you enter. There is a gorgeous view of the city atop the mountain Park Guell sits on!
Casa Mila & Casa Batllo
Further creations of Gaudi, these two structures have a beautiful view from the inside and out! While you can purchase tickets for a tour through each building, the mosaic detail can still be embraced when viewing from the street.
The mosaic windows were breathtaking!
Sagrada Familia
This breathtaking church is an unfinished piece by, of course, Gaudi. Purchase tickets ahead of time and make sure to include the audio tour. The sculpted ceilings, gilded structures and detailed stained glass are not to be missed!
Parc de Montjuïc
Filled with fountains, museums, gardens, and the Olympic Stadium, this park is minutes away from the bustle of the city. Beware that this park is very large and it’s easy to get turned around. Keep track of the local bus stops and decide what landmarks you want to see ahead of time to plan a direct route.
Time to face my fear of heights.
Tibidabo
This large mountain that overlooks the city contains Sagrat Cor church as well as an amusement park. Make use of the local tram and funicular to arrive to the top of the mountain and explore the views from the church’s balconies. Don’t forget your camera for this scenic site!
Beaches
While Barcelona is known for their strong cultural and historical impact, the beach offers a perfect outlet to step away from the numerous tours and museum. People-watch on the board walk or pack up a blanket and relax on the beach. There are a myriad of restaurants and bars lining the sand for an afternoon sangria. (Bestial was one of my favorites!)
Adios de Barcelona!
What is your favorite city in Europe?
After this trip, I have to say Barcelona tops the list. I love the laid back vibe and that the beach is always within a few minutes of the metro. This is one of the only places I’ve visited where I wished I had planned a few more days (weeks!) to stay.
Stay up to date on Juliette’s adventures by following her on Instagram –julietteelise & twitter @JulietteElise_ !
I’ve only ever been to Madrid (when I was little). I’d love to visit Spain again and see Barcelona. As of now, I’d have to say my favourite city is Vienna because I spent so much time there growing up and it’s just generally amazing (okay, I might be a little biased). Love your photos too!
xx, Pia
Thank you! We’ll be in Barcelona for 2 days before our cruise and I’m trying to gather as much info as I can (I do the trip planning the fiance just does what I tell him we should do lol). I can’t wait to explore this beautiful city!
Gothic Quarter Treats
Dark chocolate is always the way to my heart!
Barcelona sounds amazing!! Ahh I want to go!
Her Heartland Soul
https://herheartlandsoul.com
Definitely worth the plane ride! A beach and city vacay in one.
I’ve only ever been to Madrid (when I was little). I’d love to visit Spain again and see Barcelona. As of now, I’d have to say my favourite city is Vienna because I spent so much time there growing up and it’s just generally amazing (okay, I might be a little biased). Love your photos too!
xx, Pia
https://gymbagsandjetlags.com
Adding Vienna to my list! I’ve heard it’s beautiful and rich in history.
Thank you! We’ll be in Barcelona for 2 days before our cruise and I’m trying to gather as much info as I can (I do the trip planning the fiance just does what I tell him we should do lol). I can’t wait to explore this beautiful city!
I hope you have fun!!