What to do, see, and eat in Barcelona
Other than being in the news for recent protests in the fight for independence, and four jailed Catalan separatist leaders currently on hunger strike, the capital of Catalonia, Barcelona, has the best of both worlds: it is located by the Mediterranean Sea and next to the Pyrenees mountains, which means it has sea and mountains as part of its scenery.
If you don’t know what to do, see, or eat, this list should help:
Gaudí galore
Antoni Gaudí played a huge role in Barcelona’s history. He was one of the most famous figures of Catalan culture and world architecture, and spent over 40 years designing the Temple of the Sagrada Familia – truly an astonishing piece of architecture which is still in the process of being completed.
Other marvellous Gaudí creations include Colonia Güell, La Pedrera and Casa Vicens, among others.
Parks and greenery
Though it has a beautiful city and architecture, Barcelona also has lush greenery that allow you to take a breather from the city chaos. Some must-see parks include:
- Park Guëll (another Gaudi jewel).
- Parc de la Ciutadella (in Born in the city centre).
- Laribal Gardens – complete with a staircase that leads down to the gardens of the Greek Theatre, an amphitheater dating back to the early 19th century.
- Parc del Laberint d’Horta, one of the city’s historic parks and the oldest of its kind in Barcelona, boasts a labyrinth made of a hedged maze of cypress trees as the central feature. There are also numerous sculptures that depict figures from Greek mythology.
Las Ramblas Street
Certainly a highlight on the famous 1,2km-long street in Barcelona, Las Ramblas Street, is La Boqueria Food Market. Get lost in all the colourful flavours, fresh produce, flowers, and more. Once you’ve had enough of food, take a guided walking tour down the street and discover lots of lost tidbits that tell the history of this renowned street.
Paella
You can’t visit Barcelona and miss out on it’s most famous dish – paella! Paella is made of rice, saffron, chicken, or seafood, and cooked and served in a large shallow pan. You’ll find a great paella easily, but one of our favourite spots is at La Palmera, close to La Boqueria Market.
Tapas
Tapas is small appetizers or snacks typical in Spanish cuisine. Though it is simple, it is delicious and actually easy to make: it can be whipped up from almost any ingredients (often left-overs) and can be served hot or cold.
FC Barcelona’s headquarters
FC Barcelona’s headquarters, situated at Camp Nou Stadium, is the heart and soul of the Catalonian people. You’ll be impressed – even if you aren’t a soccer fan.
