🇪🇸 Barcelona
Spain · Catalonia
Spain's vibrant, sea-facing capital of Catalonia, renowned for Gaudí's whimsical architecture and lively tapas scene.
Barcelona — dronepicr · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
🗓️ Best time to go
May to June or September to October when the weather is warm but not stifling, and tourist crowds are manageable.
🚆 Getting around
The TMB Metro is very clean, air-conditioned, and cheap. Walking is best for the Gothic Quarter and Eixample.
About
A Mediterranean metropolis that seamlessly blends urban beach life with Catalan modernist art, historic quarters, and world-class dining.
Interesting places to visit
Sagrada Família
Antoni Gaudí's unfinished cathedral; the towering interior forest columns and stained glass light are breathtaking.
Park Güell
A colorful public park system composed of gardens and Gaudí's mosaic-adorned architectural elements.
Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)
A maze of narrow medieval streets full of history, hidden plazas, and trendy bars.
Casa Batlló & Casa Milà
Iconic apartment buildings on Passeig de Gràcia showcasing Gaudí's organic curves.
What to eat
Tapas & Pintxos
Small plates like Patatas Bravas, Pan con Tomate, Padrón Peppers, and seafood croquettes.
Paella
Particularly seafood paella (Arroz Negro) along the Barceloneta harbor.
Crema Catalana
The Catalan version of crème brûlée, flavored with lemon peel and cinnamon.
Practical tips
Beware of pickpockets
Particularly on La Rambla, Barceloneta beach, and crowded Metro cars. Keep bags secure.
Buy tickets online weeks ahead
Sagrada Família and Park Güell do not sell tickets at the door.