Barcelona - Six Days, Two Trips, and Still Not Enough Time

My Time

Barcelona was the last stop on our European adventure. Our friend Julia was studying here and she showed us all the best places in the short two days we had. In my opinion, Barcelona is a tourist's paradise, offering an endless array of sights and experiences, each with its unique charm, and is a good depiction of culture and history of Spain. I knew I would be going to Spain for my study abroad the following year, and my short stay here validated my excitement of returning - to dive deeper into the language, culture, and adventures this country offers.

Day 1

Language Learning: Even on the flight from Dublin to Barcelona, I was transitioning from one culture to the next. I sat by two young girls who kindly interrupted me from my studying to learn more about me and where I was from. It was one of the sweetest encounters I had. They had gone to Ireland for a school trip to practice their english, and just like me, they were in the beginning stages of learning the new language. We talked for almost an hour, I asked them questions in spanish and they responded in english, the perfect way to practice for the both of us. It was also so cool that I was the first American they met and as our plane was beginning its decent, their other school friends were listening in on conversation and I had five girls all tuning in on what I had to say. They even asked if they could take a photo with me which warmed my heart! It was one of those moments that you'd never experience in the US, and how awesome to be able to help each other out and practice a language while getting to know each other. What a fun way to start my time to Spain!

Tapas: Once we did arrive in the city, we took the metro to our airbnb and as it was already late, it called for the perfect atmosphere for some late night tapas. Julia took us to a great spot and for dinner we split several small plates with big flavors, a true introduction to Spain’s vibrant food scene. I enjoyed some patatas bravas and pan con tomate. There were also drinks to be had and of course, per Spanish culture, the bill was split evenly between us all. It was the perfect welcome to the city, an unhurried, flavorful, and best enjoyed with conversation.

After our dinner, we headed back to the airbnb to hang out and call it an early night as the fatigue from Ireland was hitting and we had a packed next few days to take in all we possibly can in this large and bustling city.

Day 2

Plaça de Catalunya: To start off our new day, we made our way to Plaza de Catalunya, a bustling square at the city’s center, known for its pigeons that seem to have no fear of humans. We not only admired the buildings around us, but the animal interactions at hand. We didn't have any food with us to give the pigeons, but a kind person gave us some and soon enough the pigeons flocked to our hands and one even landed on my head! If you think you can withstand being surrounded by many many birds, this is a cool place to stop.

Gothic Quarter: From there, we wandered through the Gothic Quarter, which is truly the heart of old Barcelona and feels like stepping into a medieval time capsule. We walked the many narrow, winding streets, past the hidden courtyards, and around the centuries-old buildings. Within the quarter lives both the Barcelona Cathedral and Plaça Reial. This corner of the city felt like we were living and breathing the true Spanish experience. There were some vendors in the Plaça Reial and my friends and I picked up some memorable rings to forever remind and cherish this trip we went on together. We also stopped at a cafe to pick up a mid morning coffee and pastry, as you must in Europe.

Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria: This was another must stop. This market was so impressive, in both size and options. We saw both locals grabbing their groceries, hungry passers grabbing a bit to eat, or tourists like us wandering around and buying and trying all we could. What caught my eye was the juices and fruit smoothies they offered. There were also some spices that I picked up for a souvenir. And even if you are not hungry, there is much to admire with the setup and layout of the stalls, especially the colorful fruit displays, the vast amount of fresh seafood, and jamón hanging from market stalls.

La Rambla: This famous street was our next destination, and the first time the group split up to choose their adventure for the afternoon. I chose to wander and shop, as the street was lined with stalls selling all sorts of items. There was much to appreciate as you walked along the palm tree lined roads, and with the lovely Spain weather, this was a worthwhile activity. We wandered about for an hour, before regrouping and making our way to our reservations at an iconic restaurant per Julia's recommendation.

The Four Cats: 4 Gats is a historic restaurant nestled in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter. The walls of the restaurant were filled with artwork, of which includes notable artists that display Barcelona's cultural movements. Making this spot even more special, Pablo Picasso held his first solo exhibition here and designed the very menu cover we were handed as we sat for our first meal of the day. This is the perfect place to try paella, enjoy a starter of salty olives, and spend your afternoon surrounded by art and culture.

For dessert, we went to Julia's favorite gelato spot, Dela Crema, which would soon be mine as well! I ordered a roasted apple sorbet and it was easily the best gelato I've had to this day. I loved it so much that when I returned to Barcelona in February 2023, I texted her to remind me the name and location of this place, and to my luck, the place I got dinner at was just down the street!

Playa de la Barceloneta: The weather had gotten a bit gloomy by this point in the day, so much so that I added a photo from my second trip to Barcelona, but we still made the most of our trip to the beach! Chasing waves and feeling the peace of the water is always time well spent in my books. Since it was March and around 40 degrees outside, we could not take full advantage of being on the Mediterranean, but in my opinion, beach access makes this city even more desirable to visit, stay, or live.

Before leaving the beach, we got ceviche for dinner at one of the restaurants that lined the coast. We headed back to the airbnb to regroup after a full day of sightseeing, but you know the night is never ending in Spain and this was certainly not the conclusion to our day.

Montjuïc: We visited this place at night for its panoramic views of the lit up city, seated on the steps of the Montjuïc Castle. Music played and we huddled up to admire the city of Barcelona. You could also visit during the day to see the lush gardens and walking paths.

McDonalds: No American can leave the country and not make a stop at the foreign McDonalds, so this we did. One could be impressed by the quality difference in both food and cleanliness of the location, and back to our roots we escaped here for a late night snack. I would certainly say this is not a must visit, but I have a feeling you might naturally find yourself in one like we did, even after swearing to not eat any American food on our trip.

Day Three

La Sagrada Família: I had been eagerly awaiting the chance to see Gaudí's La Sagrada Família, and today, my wish was finally coming true. Despite its grandeur and status as a landmark of the city, this stunning church is not technically a cathedral, but a basilica due to its cultural and historical significance. The scale and intricate details of Gaudí’s masterpiece left me speechless. Even though it was designed over 100 years ago, the interior still feels remarkably modern, showcasing Gaudí’s visionary genius. The level of detail and the fact that it’s still under construction today highlight the incredible craftsmanship behind this structure.

For a bit of history, construction of La Sagrada Família began in 1882, initially led by architect Francesc de Paula del Villar. However, it was when Antoni Gaudí took over in 1883 that the church began to take its unique and iconic form. Gaudí dedicated the last years of his life almost entirely to the project, working on it until his death in 1926. Since then, various architects have continued the work, with plans to complete the basilica by 2026, the centenary of Gaudí's passing.

Every angle of the basilica left me in awe, leaving me in a state of constant marvel at its sheer brilliance. Visiting La Sagrada Família is an absolute must for anyone in Barcelona, so be sure to book your tickets a few days in advance to secure the chance to experience this cultural phenomenon and step inside a true masterpiece of art.

Lunch with a View: There are many restaurants within the area that offer a view of the church and be sure to take advantage of that. To be in the presence of art for as long as you can. We stopped at a tapas place and sat outside to cherish our proximity to La Sagrada Familia. If you are feeling more up to a drink, Basilica Lounge is trendy rooftop bar offers a fantastic view of the basilica, especially at sunset. We returned to this square our last day in the city for coffee and breakfast, so no matter what time of the day you find yourself near La Sagrada Familia, you can easily pair the tour with a nearby drink or meal.

Park Güell: Today was truly our Gaudí day, as we journeyed from the awe-inspiring La Sagrada Família to the enchanting Park Güell. Another mini history lesson, Park Güell is a testament to Gaudí’s visionary approach to urban planning, where he sought to integrate nature, architecture, and community in a way that was groundbreaking for its time. Originally conceived in 1900 as a private residential project, the park was designed as a utopian space where architecture would harmonize with the natural surroundings. Gaudí's use of organic shapes, vibrant mosaics, and green spaces was unique and forward-thinking, blending beauty with functionality in a way that hadn't been seen before. Though the residential project failed, the park became a public space in 1926, and today it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, influencing modern urban planning and demonstrating the lasting importance of green spaces in cities.

You could spend hours walking around the park, or make a few stops to the highlights of the park. We arrived at the park around 6pm and raced to see as much as we could before the sun set. I adored this park and appreciated it for all it was. I could only imagine how lovely this park would be to explore on a sunny day, so if you are given the opportunity, leave yourself enough time to cherish the beauty this park brings to this corner of the city.

Parc de la Ciutadella: Although the sun was down, there was still more to see. I would recommend visiting this park in the daylight and if you need an escape from the bustling city. Make sure to find your way to the ever beautiful fountain for a picture perfect background. This city never fails to impress and this park speaks to that very notion.

Arc de Triomf: You cannot miss checking out the Arc, a grand red-brick structure standing proudly at the entrance of the park. Common in many European cities, this arch was built for the 1888 Universal Exposition, showcasing the city's architectural style. This stop will not require much of your time but just one more wonder that makes up this city.

Avocado: My friends and I elected for a vegetarian dinner at Avocado, a trendy café with fresh, healthy dishes that accommodated to all diets. We surely have some lasting memories of our night's meals here, such that I'd say there are many other finer options to choose for dinner, but I was grateful for the multiple of vegan options offered here.

Day Four

Breakfast by Sagrada: This was our last day in Europe, and we had some time to kill before hopping on our flight that night to head back to the States. Julia had class so we were left without much direction, so of course we went somewhere we knew would provide a good experience, back to La Sagrada Familila. We found a small bakery and cafe on the square with an incredible view of the basilica, but other great options include Brunch & Cake, Buenas Migas, and MIAM.

The rest of the day we spent getting ready for our journey home, some recovering from the taxing trip, and others playing catch up on homework before returning back to UW-Madison. I loved my stay in Barcelona and it made me ever more excited for studying abroad. This whole trip was the perfect precursor to life and travel in Europe, of which you will soon learn I took full advantage of when I returned a year later for Madrid.

My Second Trip to Barcelona

Speaking of my time studying abroad, Barcelona is the only European city I've traveled to twice, which having missed a few destinations on this trip, I was just as excited to head back and check more off the list. I will highlight what I saw the second time around, which goes to show you could easily spend 4-5 days in the city and still not run out of things to do.

Montserrat: Montserrat is a breathtaking mountain range located just outside of Barcelona, known for its dramatic rock formations and stunning views. Hiking Montserrat was what convinced me that it was worth revisiting Barcelona. What further makes this stop so unique is that there is a Monastery perched high in these mountains. I felt the spiritual power of the Monastery when I stepped inside and sat in a pew to admire. Also make sure you check out the Black Madonna, a revered statue of the Virgin Mary housed inside the monastery.

What I enjoyed most about this perfect day adventure is that it takes out of the city and into nature. There are many incredible hiking trails to chose from, all of which provide an overview of the incredible landscape and panoramic views of the surrounding Catalonia region. My friend Nolan and I left for Montserrat around 10am, carefully making our way out there as the transport was multi-stepped. Here are the following ways to get there from the city center:

1. Take the train from Plaça Espanya station on the R5 line of the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) toward Monistrol de Montserrat, which takes about 1 hour.

2. Once you arrive at Monistrol de Montserrat, you have the option to take the Aeri de Montserrat cable car up the mountain for stunning views (I took this and would highly recommend), or the Funicular de Sant Joan for an even higher vantage point.

3. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Estació Sants or Plaça de Catalunya to Montserrat, which takes about 1.5 hours.

There is a giftshop and restaurant on the top of the hill, which we grabbed a quick meal before starting our hike. We chose the Sant Jeroni Trail, this trail leads to the highest point of Montserrat for a 360-degree view of Catalonia. I thought it was of modest difficulty, there are a lot of stairs but very manageable. Another great trail is Montserrat Monastery Loop. This loop starts and ends at the monastery, taking you through various scenic viewpoints, hermitages, and rock formations. The hike took a handful of hours and we didn't make our way back to the city center until 4pm. If you have extra time in Barcelona, this is a great way to spend it.

Port Vell: Known also as Old Port, Port Vell is Barcelona’s historic waterfront, home to luxury yachts, seafood restaurants, the iconic Maremagnum Shopping Mall, and Aquarium Barcelona. I walked along Port Vell early Saturday morning and had it all to myself. I was walking to the beach and could not help but admire the boats that filled the port. I sat on the sand and enjoyed the sea, but if you’re looking to explore the harbor, consider taking a boat tour for a different view of the city.

Picasso Museum: The Picasso Museum is one of the most important cultural institutions in Barcelona, dedicated to the works of the legendary artist Pablo Picasso. The museum houses a massive collection of Picasso’s early works, showcasing his artistic evolution from a young prodigy to a revolutionary force in modern art. There were pieces of his scribbles at 4 years old to his more developed later works. It’s a great visit for anyone interested in Picasso’s life and works, and its central location makes it a perfect stop while exploring the vibrant El Born neighborhood.

Casa Batlló: Another Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece, located on the bustling Passeig de Gràcia. Even if you chose not to go inside, it's worth walking past and appreciating the colorful façade and mosaic tiles that makes Casa Batlló look like something straight out of a fairytale. Inside, you can explore the beautifully designed rooms and innovative features that demonstrate Gaudí’s talent. The rooftop, with its dragon-scale tiles and stunning views of the city, is another highlight of the experience. Visiting Casa Batlló offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the creativity and uniqueness of Gaudí’s architecture, and it’s one of the highlights of Barcelona’s modernist heritage.

El Carmel: A lesser-known gem in Barcelona, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city. Perched on one of the highest hills of the city, El Carmel is a quiet, residential neighborhood that’s home to the Turó de la Rovira viewpoint, which is one of the best spots to see the city from above. The viewpoint is famous for its 360-degree views of Barcelona, including landmarks such as La Sagrada Família, the Mediterranean Sea, and the sprawling city below. From this point of view, you can appreicate the size and layout of the city. Bring some snacks and drinks and enjoy watching the sunset with a group friends whilst enjoying one of the best views of the Barcelona.

Quadrat d'Or: Lastly, make sure you find your way to the Quadrat d'Or, an area brimming with stunning architecture, where every building seemed like a work of art. The Quadrat d'Or is often regarded as an open-air museum, offering plentiful views of intricate facades, ornate balconies, and elaborate ironwork that epitomize the Modernista movement. 

Day Trip: La Costa Brava

A day trip to Costa Brava offers a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich history. Start in Tossa de Mar, exploring the medieval Vila Vella fortress with panoramic views of the sea. Next, head to Calella de Palafrugell, a picturesque village with crystal-clear waters and scenic coastal trails, where you can enjoy seafood by the beach. In the afternoon, visit Begur, known for its medieval castle and beautiful beaches, offering breathtaking views. Finally, end your day in Cadaqués, a town renowned for its artistic heritage and connection to Salvador Dalí, where you can explore its narrow streets and visit his former home. Costa Brava is a must-visit destination, combining natural beauty, history, and culture for a memorable experience.

Next Stop: Madrid, Andorra, or Southern France

After your time in Barcelona, there are many great options for a next stop on your trip. If you want to compare the two most popular cities in Spain, head to Madrid for its rich cultural scene, world-class art museums, grand boulevards, and beautiful parks (Madrid is my personal favorite as it was my home for 5 months, and will be the next blog post!). Alternatively, for a change of pace, you could venture to Andorra, a tiny yet stunning country nestled in the Pyrenees, known for its ski resorts, scenic hiking trails, and unique blend of French and Spanish culture. Or, if you're in the mood for a taste of southern Europe’s charm, head to Southern France for its lavender fields, Mediterranean coastlines, and historic towns like Carcassonne, Montpellier, and Nice.