3.5 Days: 87,861 steps
Barcelona was an amazing place to start my trip! I found the city really unique because of its mix of historic European buildings and palm trees/beach spread throughout the city.
Navigation was fairly easy. I had a lot of help because my dad knows the city inside and out. However, it didn’t take long for me to get my bearings. The subway system makes getting around the city a breeze. (You can purchase a 2, 3, 4, or 5-day metro pass) There are a lot of different quarters in the city, our favourites were the Gothic Quarter, El Borne, and Barceloneta.
We toured through the most iconic cathedrals and buildings:
Cathedral de Barcelona, 1298: We toured inside and took a lift up to the roof where we could observe the entire city and the beautiful church roof structures.
Casa Batlló: One of Gaudí’s masterpieces. We toured through the building with an audio guide and a device that produces and AR experience to display how the house was originally furnished. It was very interesting to learn the inspiration and thought process behind the design and architecture. We could also go up to the roof for a beautiful view and another perspective of the building.
Sagrada Família: The most iconic part of Barcelona. A Roman Catholic Basilica designed by Gaudí. It is still under construction and is set to be completed by 2026, the 100-year anniversary of Gaudí’s death. Inside and out, I was overwhelmed by the level of detail. I learned the reason behind every detail (and that every detail serves a purpose) from the audio tour. The interior of the basilica is the most unique and beautiful space I have ever seen. The space makes you feel so small as the vastness of the interior was designed to be the focal point. When the sunlight hits the surrounding stained glass, the entire space is light up with a rainbow of colour. Truly breath taking. We also took a lift to the top to see an amazing panoramic view of the city and the ongoing construction of the basilica.
In addition to amazing sights, we also had some amazing eats:
Bar Jai-Ca: A true authentic experience. The restaurant’s interior and energy were a clear since we stumbled upon a gem. We tried the Polpo Alla Catalana (Octopus), meat skewers, mushrooms, and a beer (Estrella). Local musicians cycled through to play live music which was truly the cherry on top! (@theathletesplate)
Patagonia Beef and Wine: Amazing food and fine dining experience. Enjoyed an authentic Argentinian Rib Eye Steak, empanaditas sampler, provoleta, and Cava (Catalonian sparkling wine) (@theathletesplate)
St. Josef Mercado de La Boqueria: Market in Gothic Quarter, sampled Iberian Ham and Cheese (@theathletesplate)
Pastisseria Hofmann: An amazing sugar dusted; custard filled croissant (@theathletesplate)
Cafés El Magnífico: Café recommended by Pastisseria Hofmann
La Pizza Pazza: Dad’s favourite pizza place for a slice to-go
Mercat de Santa Caterina: Local Market, tried a couple meat pastries
Best Views
Park Güell (don’t pay for special access, the public area is more than enough!)
In sum, Barcelona was amazing! My favourite part about this city was experiencing Gaudí’s work. You can find his unique designs like gems around the city. We had some good dining experiences, but I think we will find better foodie spots in the smaller cities/towns in Spain.
Comments