There’s no shortage of sights to behold, experiences to have, and tastes to enjoy in the sprawling metropolis that is Barcelona, Spain. Barcelona, which is in the region of Catalonia, has very distinctive markers that differentiate it from other cities and regions in Spain, creating a unique culture and flavors that can only be found here.
Barcelona is one of the most attractive tourist spots in Western Europe, and for good reason. The city by the sea allows you to soak up rays on the beach, cheer on FC Barcelona at Camp Nou, enjoy myriad cultural attractions, and so much more.
When to go:
It’s recommended to go in early summer and fall to beat the hot weather and hoards of people during the high tourist season. If you’re fine to brave the cold, it’s okay to go in winter, yet don’t count on seeing any snowflakes.
Where to eat:
Boqueria Market
Purchase fresh produce and meat from Barcelona’s most famous market. You can also book a cooking class to take the magic of tapas and Catalan cuisine back home with you.
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Cerveseria Catalana
Highly recommended tapas spot on Carrer de Mallorca. Indulge in anything from mini hamburgers to seafood and more. Worth the wait.
Where to drink:
Bar Marsella
One of the city’s most famous bars on account of its prior big-name visitors, including the likes of Picasso and Hemingway, plus its otherworldly absinthe cocktails such as the “Green Fairy.”
Calle Parlament
Trendy street with no shortage of cool bars and restaurants. Tip: Go on a Sunday to indulge in its special vermuteo (vermouth) culture, the likes of which typically comes with sides like seafood, olives, and thick fried potatoes.
Where to visit:
Camp Nou
Cheer on storied football team FC Barcelona on their majestic home turf. Try the “Camp Nou Experience,” which includes a tour of the 99,000-seat stadium plus the FC Barcelona Museum.
Park Guell
A UNESCO World Heritage site designed by Catalan master Antoni Gaudi.
The Magic Fountain
A supremely romantic sight to behold, and the best bet for an Instaworthy post.
Tibidabo Amusement Park
A quaint amusement park atop a hill; perfect for some afternoon fun with great views. It’s the oldest amusement park in Spain, and the third oldest in Europe; featured in the Woody Allen film Vicky Cristina Barcelona.
Where to hang out:
Plaça del Sol
One of the prettiest squares in the city conveniently tucked away from traffic and other markers of city noise. Try making your way here from Carrer Verdi, one of the coolest streets en route to the square.
Poblenou
Poblenou is an up-and-coming industrial neighborhood that’s slowly but surely gentrifying and attracting young artists and designers to set up shop there. It’s a hip area akin to NYC’s Meatpacking District and London’s Shoreditch.
