Day 1: Raindrops and Ramblas
Our adventure in Barcelona began with a soggy Saturday morning arrival. Rainy day and the redeye flight: a match made in discomfort heaven. But for the promise of being in Spain for the first time and the Spanish sun on the horizon was enough not to damper our excitement.
Morning: Bleary-eyed and caffeine deprived, we stumbled into a cozy café next door to our Marriott apartment on La Rambla. Nothing like a strong cup of Americano to kickstart the day. Our early check-in was a breeze, the property management company very accommodating. While our digs were compact (as most apartments in Europe are), they were conveniently located – a stone's throw away from many of the tourist hotspots.
Afternoon: With raindrops tap-dancing on the pavement, we opted for a catnap to recharge our batteries. Once the clouds parted, we ventured to Passeig de Gracia for a spot of window shopping. Who needs cheap souvenirs when you can drool over the designer handbags?
Evening: Dinner at Bar Mut in the Gracia neighborhood was a seafood tapas extravaganza. We tried red vermouth (Yzaguirre) for an aperitif and what a charming surprise. For the remainder of our trip, red vermouth was our drink of choice with varying sweetness and redness. We dined on octopus, oysters, Paella and some more. On the way to the restaurant, we couldn't help but marvel at the Gaudí-esque architecture peppered throughout the neighborhood, including the striking Casa Villa La Pedrera. After dinner, we walked back and called it an early night
Day 2: Sunny Side Up
Sunday dawned bright and beautiful, a welcome change from the previous day's drizzle.
Morning: After a simple coffee and croissant breakfast, we embarked on a tour of Casa Battlo, Gaudí's architectural marvel on Rbla Catalunya. Equipped with handheld devices, we delved into the whimsical world of Gaudí. The house's undulating façade and dreamlike interiors left us feeling like characters in his fairy tale.
Afternoon: A leisurely stroll down Rbla Catalunya led us to Port Vell, where we soaked up the sun and people-watched by the pier. The juxtaposition of old and new, with modern yachts bobbing beside ancient buildings, was a sight to behold. When evening rolled around, we joined the rowdy crowd at Flaherty's Irish pub to catch an Arsenal game.
Evening: Our wanderlust led us through the labyrinthine streets of the Gothic Quarter, past the majestic Barcelona Cathedral. We indulged in hot churros with chocolate and savored tapas and paella in Eixample. The narrow alleys of the Gothic Quarter whispered tales of centuries past, while the bustling plazas echoed with the laughter of locals and tourists alike.
Day 3: Gaudí Galore
Monday was all about embracing Barcelona's Gaudí-infused charm.
Morning: After yet another breakfast of freshly baked croissants and cappuccino, we hailed a taxi to Park Güell. Despite the crowds, Gaudí's whimsical park was a charm. From the colorful mosaic benches to the lizard sculpture, every corner seemed to hold a very Gaudi (no pun intended) surprise.
Afternoon: We marveled at the ongoing masterpiece that is Sagrada Familia. Still under construction after 200 some years. What captivated me was the light filtering in from the stained glass windows, highlighting the stone forest Gaudi designed. Outside the richness of the sculptures and the facade really capture your attention and to be honest overwhelm the senses. From Sagrada Familia, we then meandered through Arc de Triomf and Parc de Ciutadella. The fruit topped towering spires of Sagrada Familia reached towards the sky, a testament to human creativity. As we wandered through Parc de Ciutadella, we were enchanted by its serene beauty, from the lush greenery to the shimmering lake.
Evening: En route to the Cathedral, we stumbled upon architectural wonders like Mercy de Santa Caterina and Mercy de Sant Antoni. A quick pit stop for café and snacks recharged our weary legs, allowing us to appreciate the cathedral's intricate glasswork. The Gothic Quarter glowed in the evening light, its ancient streets bathed in a golden hue, the marble fountains and metal ones too reminding that the area has been lived in for centuries and people live there still. We couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the richness that surrounded us.
Day 4: Market Marvels
Tuesday dawned with a visit to Mercado de la Boqueria, where we feasted on Oysters, fresh fruits, empanadas, and of course, jamón ibérico with aged manchengo cheese.
Morning: We explored the vibrant Eixample neighborhood, soaking in the authentic local vibe. From charming cafes to bustling markets, every corner seemed to hold a new discovery. The lively atmosphere was infectious, and we found ourselves drawn deeper into the heart of the neighborhood.
Evening: A must have is a sandwich from Bo de B (In Gothic quarter not too far from the Cathedral. Grab a sandwich (ask for all toppings and all sauces) and eat sitting on the steps of the cathedral for a lifelong memory. As our Barcelona escapade drew to a close, we reflect on how much more there is to see in Barcelona, a football game, the stadium, the olympic park perhaps.
Day 5: Adieu
Today we bid adieu to the bustling streets of Barca. We boarded the fast train to Madrid, carrying memories of Gaudí, tapas, and the warm Spanish sun. Adiós, Barca – until we meet again!