In This Blog
About Barcelona
Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, is a city that effortlessly blends the old and the new. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. In this guide, I will take you through our unforgettable 4-day trip in this enchanting city, sharing the best places to see, the hidden gems we discovered, and, of course, the mouthwatering food we could not resist.
Things to Do in Barcelona
Barcelona’s Prettiest Neighbourhoods
Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter, located in the heart of Barcelona, is a captivating maze of narrow medieval streets and historic buildings. A standout discovery is Carrer de l’Allada-Vermell 12, home to one of the prettiest doors in Barcelona. The blend of lush greenery and intricate architecture showcased the seamless integration of nature and design. The Gothic Quarter itself serves as a living testament to Barcelona’s medieval past, while El Born and Barceloneta add modern artistic flair and vibrant colors to the exploration.
Gem: Pont del Bisbe
Our exploration led us to the gem of Pont del Bisbe in the Gothic Quarter. Despite its medieval appearance, this architectural masterpiece was crafted in the 1920s. The bridge’s intricate details and the fusion of Gothic and Neo-Gothic elements made it a fascinating find.
El Born
Nestled within the heart of Barcelona, the vibrant district of El Born pulsates with history, culture, and a captivating energy that effortlessly marries the old with the new. Steeped in medieval charm, this neighborhood exudes a unique character, inviting visitors to wander through its charming streets and uncover its many treasures.
Additionally, El Born is not only steeped in medieval charm but also offers a vibrant atmosphere, and is a haven for art enthusiasts and foodies alike. The streets are dotted with eclectic art galleries showcasing works by local talents, while hidden squares host bustling tapas bars and cozy cafes serving up a tantalizing array of Catalan delicacies.
Sant Pere & Santa Caterina
Sant Pere and Santa Caterina are vibrant, historic neighborhoods that offer a unique blend of old-world charm and modern life. Wander through the narrow streets, where you’ll discover hidden gems like the iconic Palau de la Música Catalana, an architectural marvel.
Whether you’re into history, architecture, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, this neighborhood is a must-visit in Barcelona.
Barcelona’s Charming Pharmacies
Barcelona’s pharmacies are not just places to pick up essentials; they are works of art. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire their stunning facades while wandering through the city. You can find my favourites below:
Barcelona’s Beautiful Doors
Additionally, Barcelona boasts a wealth of stunning doors for those with a fondness for architectural details. From the rich Catalan Modernisme architecture of Casa Comalat to the modernist gem of Casa Pere Brias, each door tells a unique story:
Barcelona’s Stunning Passages
Moreover, one of the things I love most about Barcelona is the abundance of beautiful passages that wind through the city’s historic neighborhoods. These passages, known as ‘passatges’ in Catalan, provide charming glimpses into Barcelona’s history and contemporary life, offering peaceful retreats from the busy streets.
Culinary Delights: Must-Try Foods in Barcelona
Of course, no visit to Barcelona is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Below, you can find some must-try foods:
- Tapas: Above all, a Spanish classic. Enjoy a variety of small dishes, my favourites including patatas bravas, albondigas (meatballs), or Padrón peppers.
- Paella: Try the traditional rice dish with seafood, chicken, or rabbit.
- Jamón Ibérico: Savor the finest Spanish ham, thinly sliced and full of flavor.
- Pan con Tomate: Delight in simple yet delicious bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes and drizzled with olive oil.
- Seafood: Being on the coast, enjoy the fresh seafood dishes.
- Churros with Chocolate: Indulge in crispy churros dipped in thick, velvety chocolate sauce.
- Crema Catalana: A creamy dessert, similar to crème brûlée.
- Cava: Pair your meal with cava, a Spanish specialty similar to champagne.
- Deep-dish pizza: In short, for mouthwatering deep-dish pizzas that even thin-crust enthusiasts can’t resist, head to Pizzeria del Born.
Barcelona Map
Make sure to save this map to explore the best sights in Barcelona more easily!
How To Visit Barcelona
Find flights to Barcelona
Getting Around Barcelona
Barcelona is a large city, but we decided to explore it mostly on foot. This choice let us dive into the local culture, find hidden spots, and enjoy the city’s unique vibe.
Barcelona’s public transport is very good. Buses and the subway are well-connected, and you can buy a 10-trip ticket (T-casual) at any subway station. Use Google Maps to find the best routes and consider renting a bike. Just remember, Barcelona is on a hill, so biking might involve some uphill climbs.
Where To Stay in Barcelona
We chose to stay near Plaça de Catalunya, and it turned out to be the perfect spot for our Barcelona trip. This central location made it easy to get around with various public transport options, including buses and the metro, and it was also convenient for walking around the city. The bustling square, full of shops and cafes, set a great mood for our Barcelona adventure.
I edited all images with the Vibes Preset – or check it out on it on Etsy.
