A PERFECT COMBINATION
Barcelona is a gem of a city. Set right on the coast of the Mediterranean, it offers an urban culture, a beach scene, mountains, and all the romance of a Spanish city. Perhaps the best place to go to immerse yourself in Barcelona’s culture is La Boqueria. La Boqueria really is one of the best markets in the world. You can easily spend a day getting lost in all the sights, tastes, and smells here. It is the starting point for many of the city’s Catalan restaurant menus, and you will not be disappointed by all the market has to offer.
After your taste buds have been awakened at La Boqueria, get prepared for the visually astounding architecture of Antoni Gaudi. Many people are aware of his Sagrada Familia church – a part prehistoric, part fantasy, part science fiction building that is a key point of interest to almost every visitor to Barcelona. If this type of architecture is what you’re looking for, you can also visit some of his lesser known (but still amazing) buildings like the Casa Mila and Casa Batllo. A museum is now open in Gaudi’s honor, and showcases more of his work. It is in a former mansion called Palau Guell.
If architecture is not your thing, just head down to the beach. There are accessible beaches all along the coast of Barcelona. You will find people of all ages sunbathing, doing a bit of swimming, and enjoying the idyllic Mediterranean weather.
If you travel during the winter months, you can head to the mountains around Barcelona for some amazing skiing. It’s hard to picture snow so close to the Mediterranean, but the elevations produce some great opportunities to enjoy winter sports. They’re not right in Barcelona – you will need to take a car or train, but it’s worth noting that you can add some skiing to your Barcelona vacation!
A GUIDE TO BARCELONA’S CUISINE
For a relaxing change, considering getting a food tour in Barcelona. You can hire a guide who will drive you to all your destinations, and ensure that you have a chance to enjoy the best in cuisine that Barcelona has to offer. Two well-rated tours are the tapas tour, and the nighttime food lovers tour. Tapas are small snacks, canapes, and food bites that originated in Spain. Traditionally, tapas were included when you went out for a drink in a Spanish town. Now, they have taken on a life of their own, varying from region to region, in style, serving portion, and pricing. What hasn’t changed is that they’re still enjoyed all over Spain with a favorite alcoholic beverage.
You can also enjoy the very common practice of eating along the streets. Many cafes and restaurants in Barcelona have tables on the sidewalks. Be sure to enjoy a true Spanish churro. These fried and sugar covered pastries have become common in many places, but you’ll want to enjoy an authentic one in Barcelona. Perhaps have it with a perfect cup of coffee, or even a cup of chocolate to dip it in. You’ll also want to cool down if you’re visiting Barcelona during the hotter months. Iced fruit drinks and coffees are welcome refreshments, or you could try a local favorite drink – the Horchata.
Enjoy your time in Barcelona!