Barcelona is Spain's second largest city and simultaneously the capital of autonomous community Catalonia. It is an international economic and financial centre, especially known for its cultural scene and rich history. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona has a lot to offer, from famous Gaudí’s architecture, number of UNESCO landmarks, delicious cuisine, shopping opportunities to vibrant nightlife.
Must Visit Places
Barcelona is strongly associated with the work of Antoni Gaudí. His architectural designs are among the most famous landmarks of the city and most of them are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. See the list of the most renowned below.
- La Sagrada Família Basilica – Gaudí's most famous work and the undoubted symbol of Barcelona. This iconic basilica has been under construction since 1882.
- Park Güell – the most unusual public park in Barcelona, enchanting visitors with its vibrant mosaic sculptures, colorful architecture and panoramic views.
- Casa Milà "La Pedrera" - a visually striking and innovative architectural gem, celebrated for its unique stone facade and avant-garde design.
- Casa Batlló - an architectural masterpiece and an iconic modernist monument.
Besides Gaudí's architecture, you should not miss the following:
- La Rambla – undisputedly the busiest street in Barcelona, attracts tourists for its flower stalls, plane trees, street musicians, and living statues.
- Barri Gòtic - a quarter with medieval charm, narrow cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, offering a timeless journey through the city's rich history.
- Mercado de la Boqueria – located in the center of Barcelona, sells food and fresh products of high quality from all over the world.
Cultural life
Besides the large number of UNESCO landmarks, Barcelona is overflowing with museums, art galleries, exhibition centers and music halls.
- Museu Picasso - the three-storey building hides an extent collection of over 4,300 artworks by painter Pablo Picasso.
- Font Màgica de Montjuïc - the singing fountain of Barcelona entertains with a spectacular dancing show with music, water acrobatics, and light.
- Palau de la Musica Catalana – one of the most iconic examples of Catalonia's architectural and musical heritage, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nightlife
Barcelona after sunset gives you many options, from evening concerts, enjoying a museum night, dining out, dancing, or having a drink with friends:
- Balius Gastrococtelería (carrer Pujades, 196) - Concerts and cocktails in the heart of Poblenou.
- Cafè Vienes (Passeig de Gràcia, 132) - Steeped in history and full of inspiration.
- Ice Barcelona (Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, 38A) - The best place to stay cool on the beach.
- Libertine (Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 700) - Hotel Casa Bonay. An ever-changing, cool bar.
More places to explore are here.
Culinary specialties
Barcelona has a great gastronomic culture, ranging from street food, traditional restaurants to fine-dining options. Make sure to try the authentic Catalan cuisine, which is a great blend of heritage, produce, terroir, tradition, creativity and innovation.
- Pa amb tomàquet – this simple but delicious recipe is a staple of Catalan cuisine and identity.
- Escalivada - a traditional Catalan dish made of grilled peppers, eggplants and onions.
- Fricandó - a beef stew cooked with mushrooms. This traditional dish originated from an urban kitchen.
- Suquet de peix - this traditional Catalan fish stew consists of fresh seafood and monkfish served in a sweet, rich and nutty tomato-based sauce.
- Crema Catalana – a traditional dessert similar to Crème brûlée”, but lighter seasoned with lemon peel and a cinnamon stick.
To accompany the delicious food, you should try to below:
- Cava: Also known as Spanish sparkling wine, it is often the drink of choice for locals in Barcelona. Cava is generally quite a zesty wine with sharp citrus flavours making it ideal for a summer afternoon.
- Sangria: An iconic Spanish punch made with red wine and chopped fruits.
- Clara: Clara is another refreshing drink that is popular during the warmer months of the year. Clara is made by mixing beer and lemon soda. It can be made in numerous ways, but it is traditionally two-part beer to one-part soda.
You can explore Barcelona's gastronomy scene here.
