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.
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Plaça Catalunya |
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 some window shopping. Who needs cheap souvenirs when you can drool over the designer handbags? Passeig de Gràcia is the famous boulevard in Barcelona, that starts from the lively Plaça Catalunya, the historic city centre to the neighbourhood of Gràcia. Most of the luxury store brands, restaurants and Bars, the Gaudi house and many tourist hotspots are located along this main boulevard or close to this boulevard. Highly recommend staying in one of the hotels/apartments close to Passieg de Gracia or La Rambla.
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Casa Villa La Pedrera |
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 tapas that included octopus, oysters, Paella, peppers and 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.
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| Casa Battlo |
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. Strongly recommend getting tickets in advance during peak season. Access to "Special areas" is not worth it.
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 football rowdy crowd at Flaherty's Irish pub in Gothic Quarter 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. The narrow alleys of the Gothic Quarter, and balcony's decorated with flowers whispered tales of centuries past, while the bustling plazas echoed with the laughter of locals and tourists alike.
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| La Rambla |
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| A Gothic Quarter alley |
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| Port Vell |
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.
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| Mercy de Santa Caterina |
Afternoon: On way back from the park, we took a taxi ride to the ongoing masterpiece that is Sagrada Familia. We marveled at the still under construction church going on for 200 some years. What captivated me most was the abundance of natural light filtering in from the stained glass windows, highlighting the stone forest Gaudi designed. Outside the richness of the sculptures and the facade really captures 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.
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| Barcelona Cathedral |
Evening: En route to the Cathedral, we stumbled upon architectural wonders like Mercy de Santa Caterina and Mercy de Sant Antoni. A quick stop for some wine (red vermouth) 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, discovering the many marble fountains and metal ones too reminding that these common areas and water fountains were where the people congregated socially for centuries and people that live there still do. We couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the richness that surrounded us.
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| Gothic Quarter alley |
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| Parc Guell |
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| Sagrada Familia |
Day 4: Market Marvels
Tuesday dawned with a visit to Mercado de la Boqueria (not too far from Placa Catalunya), where we feasted on Oysters, fresh fruits, empanadas, and of course, jamón ibérico with aged manchengo cheese.
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| Mercado de la Boqueria |
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 near University of Barceloa and walking along the Rbla Rambla.
Evening: Before leaving Barsa, a sandwich from Bo de B (In Gothic quarter not too far from the Cathedral is a must have. The lines are long, mostly exchange students. Grab a sandwich (ask for all toppings and all sauces) and potato fries. Sit by the steps of the cathedral and enjoy this meal to make a lifelong memory. As our Barcelona escapade drew to a close, we reflect on how much more there is to do in Barcelona, a football game, the stadium, the olympic park..next time perhaps.
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| Mercado de la Boqueria |
Day 5: Adieu
Today we bid adieu to the bustling streets of Barca. We boarded the fast train to Madrid, carrying memories of Gaudí, red vermouth, tapas, and the warm Spanish sun. Adiós, Barca – until we meet again!
