The city of Barcelona is located in the northeastern region of Catalonia, in Spain. The city has many landmarks, from buildings built by Gaudí to beaches with promenades decorated with sculptures.

Explore Gaudí’s buildings and the city’s architecture

The city of Barcelona is known for Gaudí’s architecture. The Sagrada Familia cathedral was built by Gaudí and is now one of the city’s most famous symbols. The unfinished cathedral has several towers, and visitors will be able to climb up two of the towers to enjoy views towards the city. Another one of Gaudí’s buildings is Casa Batlló. This house is known for its colourful facade, covered in trencadis, mosaic pieces. The iron balconies have the shape of skulls. In the Eixample district visitors will find Gaudí’s Casa Milá. This building has a wavy stone facade. Guided tours are organized around the buildings, which has no straight lines and a rooftop decorated with statues.

The Gothic Quarter is another one of the city’s centric neighbourhoods. This area is known for its Gothic buildings and narrow streets filled with cafés and shops. The city’s main cathedral, the Gothic Seu Cathedral, is located here. Next to it visitors will find a cloister with geese. After visiting the cathedral visitors will be able to enjoy a drink at one of the terraces on the Plaza de Reial square.

Grab some local food at one of the markets

Barcelona is a destination for foodies, reason enough to book a flight to this city. The city has many markets where visitors will find local products, the city center is filled with tapas bars and there are several Michelin star restaurants. There are several famous markets in this city. The Boquería Market, located off the Las Ramblas, is the city’s most visited market. Known for its colourful stalls selling iced drinks, fresh fruit and local delicacies, this market is a place for those who enjoy food. Visitors will be able to enjoy authentic tapas in one of the market’s traditional tapas bars. A typical breakfast consisting of coffee and fresh bread drizzled with olive oil and tomato is served at the stalls. There are many stalls selling fish and jamón ibérico. Another, more authentic, market is the Sant Antoni Market. There are tapas bars in the center of the market.

Wander around this city

Barcelona is a city than can be explored on foot and by bike. Bikes can be rented along the beach promenade, and guided bike tours can be organized. To be able to enjoy views towards the city’s architectural landmarks and the city life visitors can explore the city on foot. Las Ramblas is a set of main streets that joins the centric Catalunya square to the seashore, where a statue of Columbus is located. These streets form a large boulevard that has many flower stalls and street performers.

Spend an afternoon taking in the city’s culture

After exploring and getting lost in this city, visitors can join the locals at the Barceloneta beach. This area has many cafés and restaurants, and the promenade is decorated with sculptures and statues. The city has several parks where visitors will be able to enjoy a stroll. Parc Güell, which was designed by Gaudí, is one of the city’s most famous parks. Located on a hill, this park has a large tiled observation deck that has views towards the city and the sea. Visitors will be able to explore the Gaudí museum, which can be found on the park grounds. Another main park is the more centric Ciutadella park. This large park has several museums, a lake with rowing boats and a zoo. The Laboratory of Nature Museum is located on the park grounds.

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Photo by melissadelzio on Flickr