Among Europe’s many lovely portside cities, Barcelona might offer the most to do and in one of the prettiest settings as well. Fans of fine architecture will have a field day ogling the countless age-old cathedrals and Gaudi works, and seafood, shopping and even some excellent beaches are just a taste of the metropolis’ diverse bounty.
7 Steps to visit Barcelona, this magnificent city is definitely worth visiting!:
The most quintessential ‘don’t-miss’ Barcelona attraction has to be La Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s fantastical temple that rises above much of the city. The towering spires seem as if they were created by dripping sand, the views are wonderful, and Gaudi’s final resting place is well worth a stop here as well.
Step 2:
Take a stroll along the waterfront to savor the city’s seaside flavors. The old fishing district of La Barcoleneta is particularly charming, and the newer ‘Port Vell’ marina is also an attractive meander.
Relax in at least one of the city’s numerous pretty parks, which range from the old and traditional Parc del Laberint, rich in statuary and cypress trees, to the bustling Parc de Joan Miró, featuring a prominent statue by the legendary artist and an attractive esplanade.
Step 4:
To enjoy the best of the region’s wonderful seafood treats, splurge for a memorable meal at Botafumeiro on Gran de Gracia. The attractive restaurant serves everyone from local business people to Spanish royalty, and offers an endless array of marisco (seafood) that includes lobster, mussels, scallops, crayfish and more.
Step 5:
Visit the bustling avenue Placa de la Seu and its staggering gem, the Catedral de Barcelona. Dating back to the mid 1400s this is one of Europe’s most eye-catching cathedrals, a mix of Renaissance-medieval design with numerous impressive details--including a beautifully sculpted choir and serene central pond and fountain.
Step 6:
For an unforgettable night of drinking--if you can remember it--visit the legendary Bar Marsella on Saint Pau. A local favorite for a century-and-a-half, the throwback tavern specializes in serving absinthe, illegal in many nations due to its supposedly psychedelic effects; Picasso is supposedly among the tavern’s famous past patrons.
Step 7:
Savor the works of one of the greatest painters in history at Museu Picasso on Montcada, where five medieval homes display creations from the longtime Barcelona resident. From simples sketches of city scenery to impressive portraiture, a diverse trove of wonders is here for the viewing.