Barcelona is a city like no other; it’s very Spanish in routine and design but completely Catalan in flavor and feel. There is truly something for every adventurer in Barcelona—from quiet walks in the park and incredible art to bucket-list attractions, and flavorful foods and bold wines. Here are a few of our favorite things that you can only do in beautiful, vibrant Barcelona.
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1. Visit Spain’s most famous unfinished building
Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain
It’s no secret that La Sagrada Familia is one of Europe’s favorite basilicas. Construction began on Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi’s quirky masterpiece in 1882, and since then it’s drawn daily crowds so big that they drown out the sounds of constant construction. Few ever make it inside, and even fewer have the opportunity to make it inside quickly. If you’re pressed for time and want to secure some priority tickets, take a Fat Bike Tour of Barcelona, or book a guided tour via Travlocity. You’ll be able to skip the line and enjoy plenty of time to explore the colorful, ethereal interior.
2. Fall into a mosaic wonderland
View of Park Guell, the creation of architect Antonio Gaudi, now an UNESCO world heritage site
From its elite beginnings as a luxury subdivision in the early 1900s, Parc Guell has become a UNESCO site famed for its rich, artistic history. Dotted with eclectic architecture and adorned with mosaic tiles, it isn’t difficult to see why people come from all over the world to try and gain entrance into Parc Guell. Only a certain number of people are allowed in per day, and much of the park is restricted to allow the natural areas to flourish. If you’d like to visit, we suggest booking a Skip-the-Line Tour in advance via Travelocity!
3. Brunch like a local
Spanish tapas and sangria on wooden table
One of the best things about Spain is the availability of small tasting dishes, or tapas. Tapas provide an excellent opportunity to sample local flavors without having to commit to a several-course meal when you aren’t hungry, but on the flip side, you can easily stuff yourself on sheer variety. If you’d like to start your tapas journey early (and for Barcelona, early means 10:30AM), book a Tapas Brunch tour for delicious churros, jamon, and foods that just don’t taste the same when you’re not in Catalonia. If you prefer, add a little dance to the mix with a Tapas & Flamenco Evening, available via Travelocity.
4. Sip some rare, robust wines
Sip local wines right in the vineyards where they were grown
Spain is famous for producing full-bodied, aromatic wines, but the Priorat region is known for churning out some of the more powerful reds. Most common is the local Grenache, and most recognizable is the Cabernet Sauvignon. If you are somewhat of a wine connoisseur (or want to become one) then experience an 11-hour wine immersion along the rugged, mineral-rich countryside of Priorat. You’ll visit three different wineries and have your fill of perfectly-paired dishes. If you prefer a more casual day trip, opt for the Local Wine & Cava with Tapas 4WD Vineyard Tour, bookable via Travelocity.
5. Stand next to a woolly mammoth
The Parc de la Ciutadella, established during the mid-19th century
Okay, it’s not a real one, but this sculpture is worth a visit because it requires a stroll through Parc de la Ciutadella. This is probably one of Barcelona’s best urban green spaces, and it’s full of flowers, music and life. The park encompasses several of Barcelona’s attractions such as the zoo, the Catalan Parliament building, the Geology Museum and the Museum of Modern Art.
6. Spend the night in a 12th-century palace
Hotel Neri, Barcelona
Boutique property Hotel Neri, in Barcelona’s old Jewish Quarter, is housed in two historic aristocratic houses, one of which is a medieval palace. The five-star property is loaded with attractive features like a rooftop terrace, a library, balconies, in-room murals and beautifully preserved original touches like rustic stone architectural elements. You’ll feel just like the royalty who once walked the hallways.
7. Gather your own ingredients in Gracia
The Gracia district is familiar to anyone who has visited Barcelona because it’s where Parc Guell is located, but there are pockets of Gracia that few outsiders ever find. If you would like to hunt down some local eats, book a neighborhood food tour and visit local owner-operated delis, cafes and bars. Boost small businesses in Gracia while sipping on some bubbly Cava, and make sure you wear your stretchy pants for this one!
8. Ride through back alleys
Cyclist under the Forum of Barcelona
If you’re not one for large crowds, we recommend taking a ride with Steel Donkeys for a behind-the-scenes city tour. With Steel Donkeys, you’ll be headed to old neoclassical cemeteries and impressive buildings of the Gothic Quarter while getting in on favorite local inside jokes and enjoying tasty snacks along the way. It’s an intimate, close-knit look at everyday Barcelona.
Caroline Lupini
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