Ah Barcelona…capital of Catalonia, older than Rome, home of Europe’s largest football (soccer for North Americans) stadium. Myth has it the city was founded by Hercules. 22 times bigger than NY’s Central Park, Barcelona’s Parc de Collserola is the largest metropolitan park in the world. There are 55 museums, 28 Michelin Starred restaurants, 12 ghost subway stations (no trains, but you can take a tour) and the city will hold the title World’s Capital of Architecture in 2026. Picasso referred to Barcelona as his muse, Joan Miro was born and lived here much of his life and Lionel Messi still owns a home. Whether artistic or athletic, the city has so much to entice the modern traveler. Some ideas:
Go to the Beach…deemed the best in the world by National Geographic, they didn’t even exist until 1992. Before the Olympics this 4.5 km of coastline had been overrun by industry. Things were cleaned up, sand was brought from Egypt; now it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Pop into the icebarcelona bar for a chilly cocktail
Snack at La Boqueria an incredible market which began life in 1217…with over 300 stands selling the finest foods there’s a reason top chefs come every morning to get the best ingredients. This is THE place to pick up local cheeses and Jamon. Wine & cooking classes are highly recommended
Play football…in a bubble…so it’s not FC Barcelona but if you are looking for a giggle and a bit of exercise this is a fun way to burn off a few calories and get some Instagram-able snaps…
https://barcelonabubblefootball.es/
Visit Gaudi’s Crypt…not where he’s buried, his remains are housed in his masterpiece Sagrada Familia …instead, this intimate church is a practice run for that Cathedral. This is where his style comes together for the first time. Planned as a church for the workers in this progressive factory compound, it was never finished. But what was completed is absolutely fantastic.
Go Clubbing…Barcelona is renowned for its late-night innovative club scene…nothing gets going before midnight but once the bell strikes it’s just a matter of choosing where you want to go… Too cool for a website Sala Toro is home to the most cutting edge & creative DJ’s. For new music in a vintage space La Paloma is a must. This historic dance hall started life in 1903. If Keith (As in Richards) is more your thing and you want a little rock and roll there is no better spot that the Magic Club.
Tuck into Tapas at Bar de Pla…a local’s local with old school wooden tables & bar stools; informal & crowded. The staff won’t be chatting, they are just too busy. But they take the food & wine seriously and the prices are fare. Daily specials are a must as are perennial favorites like squid-ink croquettes, mushroom carpaccio and Iberian pork blade.
Can’t wait to go back! A great list!
Great place to visit – Thanks