Barcelona
The Catalan capital is the second most populous Spanish city and the most beautiful (we think). From its Mediterranean beaches, Iberico ham, tapas, sparkling Cava wines and dreamy, Gothic architecture, it is a European gem well worth a weekend or extended visit.
The Barcelona airport is just 12 kilometers south of the city and an easy and affordable 25 minute taxi ride. Check out the MyTaxi app, an easy way to call rides. It is also possible to take the A1 or A2 bus to Plaça de Catalunya (Pl. Catalunya - Andana Central). It is about a 40 minute trip.
EAT
Bar Castells Casual, late night tapas just off La Ramblas.
Delicious Barcelona Consider hiring a private chef through Delicious to cook dinner at your AirBnb or apartment. This is a great option for a group or family planning a special night.
El Nacional A renovated, 19th century factory with four specialized restaurants and bars. Make a booking.
Pla Restaurant Romantic restaurant in the Gothic Quarter. Go for dinner.
Restaurant Mirabé Food is pricey but the view is amazing and overlooks the entire city. Recommended by a friend.
Sensi Tapas Amazing tapas in the Gothic Quarter. Reservations a must.
DRINK
Alaire Terrace Bar Located on the 8th floor of the Hotel Condes de Barcelona, this bar overlooks La Pedrera and the Sagrada Familia.
Bo Kaap Nice, little spot for beachside drinks.
Carrer de Joaquín Costa Lots of bars on this narrow street west of Las Ramblas and just past the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Penedes Wine Region Organize a day trip wine-tasting in any of the surrounding wine regions with The Wine Colours. We enjoyed Penedes which is well known for its cava production. Definitely request a visit to Pares Balta, a bio-dynamic, family-owned winery with incredible wines!
PLAY
Ciutadella Park The green heart of Barcelona, this park has a small lake and fountain, lovely architecture and the zoo.
FC Barcelona Check out a game at Camp Nou, you won’t regret it!
Gothic Quarter Traverse the winding, medieval streets of the old city. Lots of bars, restaurants and clubs here.
La Rambla It’s touristy but worth a walk down Barcelona’s most famous street.
La Sagrada Familia Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí’s most famous work, this Roman Catholic church is so exquisite that construction started in 1882 and is still unfinished. Book tickets in advance!
Mercado de La Boqueria La Boqueria is one of the most famous markets in the world. Closed on Sundays.
Museu Picasso One of the largest collections of Pablo Picasso’s works.
Park Güell Another Gaudi creation, this park overlooks the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Plaça de Catalunya Considered Barcelona’s city center.
Platja de la Barceloneta White, sandy beach. The perfect spot for a siesta.
STAY
Stay within walking distance of Plaça de Catalunya and the Gothic Quarter and you will be just fine. We enjoyed the three-star Hotel HCC MontBlanc.