Barcelona was put “on the map“ in 1992 when the Summer Olympics were held there. Now, it’s the third-most visited city in Europe after London and Paris.

While this is not the most professional photo, it's the only photo of me in Barcelona. (This is the struggle of solo traveling).

1. CATALAN

Because I’m an American who was only required to study 2 years of French in my schooling, I decided it was time to diversify and learn some Spanish. I fired up my Duolingo app in preparation for landing in Barcelona and began practicing my words— only to find that the primary language spoken in this amazing city is Catalan. Fail.

What is Catalan? It’s the language spoken in Catalonia—the region of Spain located on the northeastern corner of the Iberian Peninsula. Barcelona is the capital of and largest city in Catalonia.

2. Antoni Gaudí'

Who is Antoni Gaudí' and why should you care? Gaudí' is a Spanish architect from Catalonia who changed the course of architecture. Most of his works are located in Barcelona, including his main work, the church La Sagrada Familia. I was completely blown away by it and my trip wouldn’t have been half as amazing if I hadn’t experienced it first hand.

3. La Sagrada Familia (Cathedral)

Even if you are only in town for one day, you simply cannot visit Barcelona without touring La Sagrada Familia inside and out. Admittedly the teenager in me asked, “What’s the big deal with this Cathedral?!” And then as I neared the structure by foot it was as if the skies had parted and the most massive structure I had ever seen had been dropped down from another dimension. I stood there dead in my tracks, in complete awe, and was instantly schooled as to why people make a big deal about it. From several blocks away, some of the towers look like the wax drippings of massive candles.

Inside, there’s an incredible array of beautiful stained glass windows. As the angle of the sun changes, so do the colors and reflections of light which pass through each window. Truly spectacular! It’s the most breathtaking cathedral (now “minor basilica”) I’ve ever seen, and Gaudí's masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You must book tours in advance and I recommend touring it in the afternoon for the best lighting. Book here. Be sure to dress modestly and cover yourself upon entry. Security is not shy about refusing entry if they think you’re showing too much skin. Women, bring a scarf for an easy cover up.

Fun Facts: Gaudí' died before La Sagrada Familia was finished—it’s still under construction. Construction started in 1882, and there's hope that it will be completed in 2026 (100 years after his death). It’s original construction began with donations only.

4. Parc Güell

Parc Güell, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a garden complex that includes a number of “Dr. Seuss-looking” buildings by Gaudí', including his own house. Each structure incorporates Gaudí's theory that “form follows function.” Many of the buildings’ exterior surfaces are covered with irregular ceramic tiles, intricately placed to create broader designs. Book your tour to this second Gaudí' favorite early in the morning to avoid the large crowds.

5. CRAFT Free Walking tour

This excellent 2.5 hour walking tour starts at the Plaça Catalunya (the Square of Catalonia), the point from which all city roads begin (and the Aerobus from the airport ends). The tour then takes you through the heart of the Gothic Quarter, and offers a lot of history of the city. The same company offers other amazing tours which I plan to take when I return.

6. El Barri Gòtic, The Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter is the center of the old city of Barcelona, and absolutely stunning to walk around in. I highly recommend staying in and around this area for a more authentic old world feel. You’ll find some amazing hidden bars (see Dr. Stravinsky below) and restaurants by wandering.

Fun Fact: Gothic structures are built very tall, to symbolize their reach up to God.

7. Placa Reial

Soon after entering this plaza your attention will be drawn to the theatrical lamp posts. These were designed by Antoni Gaudí' and were actually some of his first works of art in the city.

I discovered this Plaza at the end of my Free Walking Tour and ended wandering around it for a few hours, popping in and out of different bars and eateries. Live music is usually playing and it's the perfect spot to sit and people watch. In the evening, locals hang out around the fountain.

8. Barcelona Cathedral

Because I stayed in the Gothic Quarter, I was just steps away from this Cathedral, and I visited it daily. Arrive before 11 AM (dressed modestly and covered) for free entry (otherwise it’s 7 euro) and enjoy being greeted by the 13 geese that live inside.
Fun Fact: It is believed that Star Wars character Darth Vader’s physical features were inspired by the gothic structures found on the entranceway of this Cathedral.

9. El Borne Neighborhood

El Borne is part of the old town of Barcelona, and close to Barceloneta beach (the beach closest to Barcelona center). It features some of the best bars and restaurants in Barcelona, many of which are tucked into medieval-looking alleyways on cobbled streets (See Dux Gins & Cocktails below). A Picasso museum is also located here, and displays one of the largest collections of his work in Europe.

10. Beaches

While there are stretches of sand along the Barcelona Port (like Barceloneta), I’d recommend traveling outside of the city for a slightly tamer and less dodgy crowd. I didn’t get to do this, but the Costa Brava beach tour is supposed to be great. If you fancy old men in the nude, go to Barceloneta.
Fun fact: The sand on Barceloneta is actually imported from Egypt.

11. Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is the famous main boulevard that runs 1.2 kilometers (.62 miles) through the lively heart of Barcelona, separating the quarters of Barri Gotic. Enjoy a walk along the tree-lined shopping strip if you have time to kill between excursions, or are needing to purchase some inexpensive local tchotchkes. (Do NOT book accommodations here—it’s way too loud and crowded!)

12. Aerobus

Transit from the Barcelona airport is convenient on the Aerobus if you are staying in the main areas of the city. It was an inexpensive, low stress, seamless way to begin my travel in Spain. You can buy your ticket upon boarding. The last stop is Plaça de Catalunya (the city’s main square).

For the Foodie/Guzzler:

13. 1881 per SAGARDI

I’m a sucker for a good rooftop eatery, and this one’s no exception. I enjoyed an excellent steak here, which the server paired with an even better glass of wine. Located above the history museum of Catalonia, it has great views overlooking the Port of Barcelona, and transitions to a lounge/club at night. If you eat dinner there, they’ll hook you up with a seating/couch area to make you feel like a VIP after your meal.

14. Dux Gins & Cocktails (El Borne)

For an amazing dark and swanky speakeasy with strong specialty cocktails and an even better atmosphere, you must visit Dux Gins. Cocktail making is a serious artform here, and there’s even a list of specialties for the Instagram obsessed! You can’t go wrong.

15. Dr. Stravinsky

No—I'm not sending you to the doctor's office. This is an amazing bar you'd likely find in the NYC underground scene. Recommended by a local, the inside looks like it's straight out of a bartender's laboratory. The ambiance, decor, and custom cocktails were right up my alley. Highly rated on TripAdvisor, you will love it too. My only regret it not discovering it earlier in my trip. (It gets packed so don't wait until the end of the night to go!)

16. Mercat de la Boqueria (outdoor market)

For a great lunch and sampling of anything you can possibly imagine, head to this massive indoor/outdoor market. It sells some of the freshest fruit, vegetables and seafood in Barcelona. You can wash it down with inexpensive local wine while people watching. Always go to local markets early for the freshest foods!

I didn’t have time to explore these, but other MUST DO’s include the Tibidabo church and amusement park, Casa Batlló, and Montjuic Mountain. As with every place I’ve traveled, I always need more time!

Barcelona: 2 Must Knows and 14 Must Dos...