Barcelona

Alright this is unbelievably overdue but I'm determined to catch up on all my blogs. Starting with giving an overview to the best places to see in Barcelona. Here we go.

Gaudi.

The mastermind to Barcelona's unique urban landscape, a man who is recognized by his last name only. The guy was on acid. Or something. I don't know. But as an aspiring architect myself, I hope to find out what it was. He creates buildings and spaces that are completely in their own league and as architecturally unique as they come. Deriving inspiration from nature, he composes buildings derived from his surroundings, allowing mother nature to be the driving force behind his insane designs. Its messy, yet elegant. Abrupt yet flowing. Grand yet intimate. Its perfect.

His most lauded and world-renowned work is the still-unfinished Sagrada Familia. Touristy as it may be, this place is beyond worth it. The beauty of its exterior is only surpassed with its unbelievable interior, which is so awe-inspiring, many are left with a tear on their cheek. So whatever you do in Barcelona, make sure it includes a visit to this amazing church. Getting a guided tour is worth it for the information provided, but at the same time, you want to be able to just sit and spend as long as possible in the space without worrying about following a guide.

Additionally, there's the Park Guell, another one of Gaudi's masterpieces. This beautiful park is home to many great photo-ops, viewpoints, and interesting detailing. Well worth a couple hours, especially if you want to walk around the gardens and take it all in.

Besides those two, you can find many other examples of Gaudi architecture, including the Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, Guell Palace, and Bellesguard. Honestly, not sure if there's a full day Gaudi tour option or not, but that may be worth it.

There is, in fact, more to Barcelona than Gaudi. I've already gone through my favorites restaurants, bars, clubs and day trips, so be sure to check those out soon. I'll have my two favorite hotel reviews coming up shortly as well.

Where to go to see the best football in the world: Camp Nou

If you're lucky enough to be in Barcelona when there's a match, you absolutely have to take advantage of it. Seeing the world's best players in an environment like this is second to none. Just don't get scammed with tickets like I did on my first try and buy through FC Barcelona's website.

Where to see the entire city on a roller coaster: Tibidabo

Tibidabo is more than the centerpiece to one of my all time Friend's scenes (look it up, it'll give you a laugh for sure). It’s a beautiful area in the back hills of Barcelona that provides hiking, churches, amusement parks, and fantastic churros with THICK hot chocolate. And the views over Barcelona are stunning.

Where to see the entire city from a slightly closer location: Bunkers

You've seen the Instagram photos from here, no doubt. Take a blanket, get there at sunset, and enjoy one of the most scenic outlook spots in the city. And maybe haggle for a 5 euro bottle of wine while you're at it.

Where to be a tourist: Las Ramblas

I had to include it. Its one of the most iconic streets in Barcelona, if not the most. Aside from people trying to either sell you weed and drugs or take your wallet, the place really is beautiful. Strolling down Las Ramblas on a temperate afternoon is about as touristy as it gets, but frankly, there's a reason for the popularity of it, as the tree-lined avenue is home to some of the most well-known shops in the world, running from the massive Placa de Catalunya down to the marina.

Where to go if Las Ramblas becomes too much: Plaza Real

This quickly became my unquestioned favorite public space in Barcelona. Its right next to the bustling Las Ramblas and yet never failed to feel like an independent oasis. Palm trees and cafes are strategically littered around this perfectly orthogonal plaza, where you can also find Gaudi's first work-a wacky lamppost! Additionally, this is kind of a medium between Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter, so it serves as a good break point.

Where to go to get a nice tan line: Playa de Barceloneta

Walk through Barceloneta and get to the man-made beaches of Barcelona for a perfect day in the sun. Sure, the beaches here aren't quite as nice as in Sitges or up in the Costa Brava, but frankly, it does the job. More than once, I jumped into the Mediterranean Sea and soaked up the sun, surrounded by thousands and thousands of tourists.

Where to get some art culture: Picasso Museum

This museum is a beautiful home to the even more beautiful artwork of Pablo Picasso-arguably one of the greatest and most creatively diverse artists the world has ever seen. Located in the Gothic district in refurbished homes, this is a must visit regardless of whether or not you are an art person.

Where to go when you just want to stroll: Parc de la Ciutadella

Probably Barcelona's most beautiful park, Parc de la Ciutadella lures you in with stunning landscaping, fountains and architecture, and keeps you hanging out for longer with its frequent art and food events, so be sure to check if there's anything going on while you're in Barcelona.

Where to see seriously old ruins for free: El Born Centre Cultural

A beautiful modern building built over the ruins of this area from centuries ago, this is a great place to learn about part of Barcelona's past. Its free, and its in one of the best areas of Barcelona, El Born, so definitely worth a quick visit.

Where to see a church that isn't Sagrada Familia: Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar

Sagrada Familia steals the show when it comes to Barcelona churches, but this place is definitely no ho-hum church either. It's enormous, and will surely take your breath away. And its also free, and within a five minute walk from the El Born Centre Cultural

Where to go to hang with locals at night: Gracia

Gracia has a unique combination of local flare and international influence. Walking around here at night is a joy, with locals and tourists hanging out in the numerous plazas, enjoying beer and live music around every turn.

Where to see modern and classic architecture, while checking out views of the entire city: Montjuic

Walk up this hill to a gorgeous, neo-classical Art Museum with views out over the city. On your way up (or down) stop by at the Barcelona Pavilion, one of the most iconic examples of modern architecture. And if you time things correctly, you can also catch a fountain show at the Magic Fountain. A lot to see in a small area.

Pro tip: take a stroll through the gardens (dealing with some intense elevation changes) and get to the cable car to take you over to the beach. It’s a beautiful ride and totally worth the views, and not to mention the convenience of making a complete day between Barceloneta and Montjuic.

Honestly, this list goes on and on and on and on and…you get the point. Barcelona is the best city in the world, and there is no questioning it. There's something for everyone here. Nature? Yes. Food? Absolutely. History? You got it. Modern architecture? Oh yeah. Culture? Yep. You name it, Barcelona has it. I miss it, so much.