Curator’s statement
Barcelona is one of my all-time favorite cities. The ambiance and essence of the people, and the city itself, is so authentic and relaxing. It almost feels as if you’re not in a major city. Yet there are still some areas that do. There is so much to do and see, with its gritty, down-to-earth, yet vibrant culture. Barcelona is a must-see for every type of person.
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Where to stay in Barcelona
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Things to do in Barcelona
Tibidabo: An awesome amusement park on top of Mont Tibidabo, as well as a beautiful gothic-style church. It’s super fun for the family and for adults, not to mention the view of the city from up there is absolutely stunning.
Palau de la Musica Catalana: One of the most beautiful buildings I’ve ever seen! Inside and out! I highly recommend taking a tour of the inside of the theater, and if you can, catch a show there!
Ciutadella Park: Almost everyone knows this go-to park in Barcelona, but it truly lives up to its hype. The park itself is so peaceful to walk through, and there are some nice hidden gems to look for. The gorgeous fountain, the zoo, Arc de Triomphe, boating and a gorgeous castle.
Plaça Reial: Plaça Real is a plaza right off La Rambla (Look for Carrer de Colom). It’s super lively, a great hang-out spot, with lots of places to get food and drinks.
Piscina Municipal de Montjuïc: An Olympic pool, turned into a public swimming pool, that’s not too busy. Amazing vibes, super relaxing, with one of the best views of the city.
Beach day: When in Barca, you have to have a beach day! Barceloneta is great. You definitely have to see it, but so is Platja del Llevant or even Fòrum Playa, which are both a little further out.
Catch a sports game: Whether you are a sports fan or not, it's really worth it to go to either a soccer or basketball game when in Spain. The experience is unlike any kind of live sports event in America. The crowd and ambiance is totally different.
Tour of Camp Nou: I highly recommend going to Camp Nou, FC Barcelona’s home stadium. You can take a tour of the whole stadium. You see all the iconic spots of the team, such as the locker rooms, the media rooms and even the actual field.
Montjuïc: Monjuïc offers so much to do! There are many different museums, gardens, and parks, as well as the famous Montjuïc Castle. I recommend spending at least half a day there.
Day Trips:
Cadaqués: Town where famous Spanish painter, Salvador Dali is from. Cadaqués is the beach town where you can tour his house.
Figueres: Where Dali's main museum is located. Also a nice town to explore.
Sitges: A super-cute, beach town, not too far from Barcelona.
Places to eat & drink in Barcelona
Nevermind: A real cool, grunge, skate bar, with an actual skate bowl in the back that you can sit in and enjoy your drinks. It’s super close to the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Restaurante Salamanca: One of my all-time favorite restaurants. I’ve been coming here with my family since I was a kid. Super authentic, Spanish seafood, right on the edge of the beach. Definitely get some paella, and their homemade sangria!
Mercado de la Boqueria: The ultimate, authentic Spanish market, located right off La Rambla. There are so many diverse foods to try!
Rosa Negra: If you feel like Mexican food, my go-to place in Barcelona is Rosa Negra. Super good food and drinks!
Tapeo: They have a few locations, but my favorite is in Gracia. You can find Tapas anywhere in Spain, but Tapeo is by far the best place in Barcelona to enjoy some authentic Spanish food.
Elsa Y Fred: Super cute tapas bar in Gothic Quarter, with great food and ambiance. I recommend making a reservation, as they are often quite busy.
Monk: Highly rated cocktail bar in the Gothic Quarter. The decor is out of this world, along with their cocktails.
Pulpería Can Lampazas: Cool restaurant near Montjuic, specializing in amazing food from the North-West province of Spain, Galica.
Travel Advisor
Kamila Gomez
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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Barcelona. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Beginner's Guide to Brooklyn, NY