Barcelona is one of Spain’s hottest attractions and since the city has plenty to offer its guests, it is wise to be able to plan your visit wisely and be able to experience this passionate city to the fullest. Here are highly recommended suggestions on how to enjoy your holiday in Barcelona.
1. Explore Barcelona on foot.
The best thing about being in a European city like Barcelona is that the attractions are very close to each so you can see a lot without having to travel miles. Exploring the city on foot can help you see a lot of the locale at your own pace. This can work whether you are travelling alone, with friends, or with family. So once you’ve found a place to stay and the jet lag has worn off, get out of your room. Stroll along the city’s historical streets, go people watching at some of its parks, explore its cathedrals, and get lost in its nooks and crannies. An informal walk tour has a more relaxed feel and will help you focus more on the attractions that tickle your fancy.
2. Take advantage of Barcelona’s free attractions.
Travelling can be sometimes pricey so it is highly recommended to always start with free city attractions if there are any. With a city that is so rich in culture and history, almost every bit of it is an attraction in itself. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to see some of its best offerings. One of the free sights in the city is La Rambla. This walkway extends to about a kilometer length and is a good venue to get a glimpse of Barcelona’s general atmosphere. Come here for a relaxing stroll and take in the beauty of some of the city’s most admirable buildings. Another way to enjoy Barcelona for free is to visit the beach. The country’s warm weather always makes a beach trip fun and pleasant.
3. Shop with the locals at Mercat de la Boqueria.
Visiting Barcelona’s markets is a nice way to warm up to this destination quickly. Being in a local market will not only give you an idea what products are available locally. It can also help you mingle with the locals and see how they live and how they usually spend their day. Markets like Mercat de la Boqueria should be on your list of must-see places in Barcelona especially if you are planning for an extended stay. Taste the street food, be familiar with the manner of trade, and be amaze by local products that are offered by merchants.
4. Soak in the local art and culture.
While at the city, you have plenty of chances to see live music, dances, and parades. Most of these attractions are free as well. Take in the local music, watch flamenco performances, and take advantage of street art on display.
5. Visit in time for the Festes de la Mercè (Festival of the Virgin of Mercy).
Barcelona, like the rest of Spain, is known for its extravagant festivities. If your holiday happens to be scheduled in September, you’d be lucky if you are in the city in time for the Festival of the Virgin of Mercy. This is a 4-day long event and is really a much awaited celebration. Fun runs, fireworks display, parades, and street spectacles happen during the event.
6. Spend some time at the famous chocolate factory.
Sweet tooth lovers and kids will definitely have a wonderful time at the blissful smelling Museu de la Xocolata. Here one can learn about the history of the chocolate and may even learn some delectable recipes based on everyone’s favorite culinary ingredient.
7. Be swept away by the beauty of La Cathedral.
This place of worship is definitely one of Barcelona’s most frequented landmarks. Intricate work on the interiors and its majestic façade make this a really stunning visual treat. The Gothic concept that is used for this church is something to be admired. For a price, you can have the opportunity to see a magnificent view of Barcelona from the roof of La Cathedral. This opportunity should not be missed.
8. Discover the city while burning some calories.
Bike tours is a good option for those who want to get to know Barcelona and at the same time engage in some mild physical activity and socialize with other people. Book for a bike tour and be ready for a fun and knowledgeable ride that will take you to some of the city’s notable tourist magnets such as La Sagrada Familia, Parc de la Ciutadella, Basilica de la Santa Maria del Mar and so much more.
9. Check out goodies at Fantastik.
If you love to shop and are interested in unique finds, not necessarily local, you can shop at Fantastik. This store offers various products from different parts of the world. You can avail of trinkets from India, souvenirs from Russia, and practical goodies from China. This is a great place to kill some time if you are bored and would want to find interesting stuff that you can give to friends and family.
10. Get to know Poble Espanyol.
This is another attraction for those who want a true visual treat. This is an architectural museum and is a show of Spanish workmanship and grand design. The atmosphere here is very peaceful and the experience is something that you will enjoy as it is informative, enriching, and will help you appreciate the structures found in Spain. Poble Espanyol was built in 1929. Among the notable buildings featured here are Las Arcadas, Casa Barreda, Calle Cuna, and El mirador. The museum is a home to 117 buildings.