Travel Tuesdays: Top Ten in Barcelona | Spain

Before we had Dahlia, my husband and I had done much traveling.  Two Summers ago, we traveled to France + Spain & also decided to try for a baby.  The following Summer, we had our little Dahlia.  Spain was always on my bucket list as I had missed my opportunity in college to study abroad.  I hope it is on Dahlia’s bucket list too, because I plan to take her someday.  Below is our Top Ten List of Must Do/See.

Here is our List of the Top Ten Must Do or See in Barcelona:

1.  La Sagrada Familia

Cliche, but this has been one the most impressive landmarks I still have seen to date.  In person, it is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

Tip:  Buy tickets in advanced online to get you through the lines at the door & get there early!

2.  Park Guell 

Above are the famous Hanzel & Gretel homes.  Park Guell is amazing for all to enjoy, not just art lovers.  There is so much to see and the views from atop are amazing!

Tip:  Wear comfy shoes!  This is quite a hike from any bus stop.

3.  La Boqueria 

This market is amazing from top to bottom.  There is so much to see and try.

Tip:  Be aware of your surroundings!   Pick-pockets can happen here so keep everything close and don’t let anyone stand behind you.

4.  Barceloneta Beach

When the sun is out, so are the people!  This is an amazing beach right in the heart of the city.

Tip:  There are many restaurants that line the beach so plan on coming here for a nice lunch with the best views!

5.  Barcelona Olympic Village

A great place to hang out at night.  There is a lot of places to hang out, lounge, dance and shisha (hookah).  A bit touristy, but a lot of fun and great for people watching!

Tip:  Dress to impress!  Most places for dinner require more dressy attire.

6.  Other Gaudi Buildings

Casa Mila & Casa Batllo

 

Antoni Gaudi’s work can be seen throughout the city, but these other two are worth seeing!

Tip:  Grab a map!   These along with other Gaudi work can be seen on foot via map.

7.  Have Paella, Pintxos & Tapas

 

If you’re going to be in Spain, eat!  Paella is always great to have.  Pintxos are the little bites that you can pick from around the bar area.  Lastly, Tapas to share are a staple in Spain.  We tried the blood sausage with egg on top and patatas bravas among other things.

Tip:  Each restaurant has their own take on tapas.  So, it’s best to try different restaurants to see their interpretations of the same dishes.

8.  People Watching & Walking  Las Ramblas

 

Las Ramblas is where you want to be and where you want to be seen.  There are many shops, restaurants and street entertainment here.  Also, depending on where you end or begin, you’ll find this statue (right) of Christopher Columbus.

Tip:  Much like La Boqueria, Las Ramblas has been known for pickpockets.  Again, keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings.

9.  Dinner in the Gothic Quarter

There are so many areas, alleys and streets of the Gothic Quarter that it would be easy to get lost, but what you will find here are many great little shops and restaurants that you can’t go wrong!

We ate at Les Quinze Nitz & ordered the Paella and patatas bravas (among other things) which look different from the same dishes we ordered at another restaurant, but both delicious!

 

Tip:  There are long lines here, so be patient!

10.  Eating Jamon Iberico 🙂

Jamon Iberico is not easy to come by here in the United States which is why you MUST have some while in Barcelona.  It is everywhere and readily accessible – so why not!

Tip:  Eat it often and as much as you like 🙂

There you have it!  I hope you enjoyed my Top Ten of Barcelona and oddly enough, I’m hungry now!  Enjoy!