Grab a map, and set forth to see Barcelona as the locals do, on foot. By walking, visitors to Barcelona have the opportunity to really immerse themselves in the city. Perhaps best known for its impressive modernist architecture and the works of Antoni Gaudi in particular, strolling through the city streets allows visitors to take in the city at their own pace. There are a handful of buildings that are an absolute must-see: Sagrada Família, Park Güell, La Pedrera, Casa Amatller and the Palau de la Música.
Visiting some of the city’s churches is another must, even for those who do not have a religious background. The Sant Pau del Camp with its fantastical façade is the city’s rare example of Romanesque architecture. But the city’s most famous church is the gothic Cathedral dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Santa Eulalia.
If architecture is not really your passion, Barcelona is host to some of the best live music venues. From the spectacular Gran Teatre del Liceu to the sleek L’Auditori to the celebrated The Palu de la Musica Catalana, Barcelona offers music aficionados an experience like no other place on Earth. If you are lucky to be in town for one of the cities music festivals like Primavera Sound or the Festival Internacional de Jazz de Barcelona, you would be amiss to ignore it.
For the history buffs, the Museu d’Historia de Barcelona sponsors exhibits at locations across the city providing visitors insight into the city’s past. For tourists looking to get a clear understanding of Barcelona’s history they must visit the Plaça del Rei, the Call, the Temple d’August, and Refugi 307.
If you are a fan of Picasso, Barcelona is where he spent his youth. Take a moment to retrace the steps of this famous artist and witness firsthand the inspiration he received from the city’s beauty and vibrancy. Or stop by the Els 4 to soak up the artistic energy left by artist including Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso. Additionally, for the true Picasso lover, a visit to the Museu Picasso is a must.
Get a sense of the local flavor by heading down to Raval, where local business and culture thrives. Known as the backdrop for some of Spain’s literary classics, Raval is the place to absorb the city’s greatest cultural exhibitions like the Barcelona’s Contemporary Culture Centre, MACBA and the Filmoteca.
Did you know that Barcelona is home to the “Best Urban Beach in The Word” according to National Geographic? If you happen to be traveling to Barcelona in the warmer months, a stop by the gorgeous golden-sand beachfront along the Mediterranean coastline is sure to invigorate your senses.
After running around all day, absorbing every morsel of beauty, you can really whip up an appetite. Whether you grab a bite at the La Boqueria market or you want a taste of authentic Catalan cooking, Barcelona offers some of the most delicious plates from outstanding restaurants.
With the delicate mix of old and new, Barcelona is a city unlike any other in the world. Your Time & Place concierge will make sure you don’t miss out on anything you’ve made a priority on your itinerary. So when you visit, be sure to take plenty of pictures, as this is one adventure you will want to remember forever.
