Colorful Barcelona is a vibrant city filled with tons of history, culture, nightlife, and art; it’s no wonder that it is one of the most popular European destinations for tourists. The heart of the city is La Rambla, a broad street that stretches from Placa de Catalunya in the city’s center, to the water’s edge. Walking down this street you will find plenty of street vendors, performers, cafes, restaurants and night entertainment. Just off of La Rambla is Barri Gotic, or the Gothic Quarter. This medieval district has winding streets where you will find small cafes, shops, museums, and restaurants to explore.
Antoni Gaudi was a major architect in Barcelona, and his influence is felt throughout the city. His most famous work is Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, a basilica commissioned in 1883 and is still unfinished today. Sagrada Familia has 18 soaring towers, bright stained glass windows, and is one of the best examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Several other buildings by Gaudi are in the Eixample district. Spend the day touring the Casa Mila, resembling a stone quarry, and Casa Batllo, which resembles a fairytale castle. Another must-see site by Guadi is Park Guell, a cheerful, whimsical park filled with gardens, winding staircases, grottoes, and sculptures.
For a spectacular view of the city and Mediterranean Sea, head to Montjuic. This hilltop park features several museums, gardens, fountains, and the Tibidabo Amusement Park. The park was the site of the 1992 Olympics, and you can still see the stadium here. Be sure to wander the Poble Espanyol, a recreated village that was built for the 1929 International Exhibition.
A great day trip form Barcelona is the Salvador Dali Museum in his hometown of Figueres. Less than two hours away by high-speed train, this museum houses the largest and most diverse collection by Dali, including many pieces from his own private collection.