Barcelona

Barcelona is a beautiful city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. You truly need a couple of days to adequately see the top sites that you hear about most: The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia; Gothic Quarter and Casa Batllo.

Photo Credit: Mal Moss

Sagrada Familia Basilica is an iconic basilica designed by Antoni Gaudí and is must-see. Its unique architecture and intricate details make it one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona. At any given time, you can see the Basilica from many different perspectives. Tours are available; however, I recommend the walking tour via your phone as you go through each area of the Basilica. The most exquisite part is on the inside of the basilica – the stained-glass windows. They project light at different part of the day that brings in a multicolor display that is breathtaking.

Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) is the oldest part of Barcelona, known for its narrow, winding streets and historic buildings. It is a lively area with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Casa Batlló is a stunning building in the center of Barcelona, designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. It is considered one of his masterpieces and is known for its unique and imaginative design. The building was originally constructed in 1877 and later remodeled by Gaudí. Casa Batlló is often referred to as the "House of Bones" due to its skeletal and organic appearance.

The building features irregular oval windows, flowing sculpted stonework, and a colorful mosaic made of broken ceramic tiles. The roof is arched and resembles the back of a dragon or dinosaur, with a turret and cross that represent the lance of Saint George, the patron saint of Catalonia. Casa Batlló is part of the Illa de la Discòrdia, a row of houses designed by notable Modernista architects in Barcelona.

Casa Batlló is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers various experiences for visitors, including nighttime visits, concerts, and escape room adventures. It also has a museum shop that offers a wide range of gifts related to Gaudí and Barcelona. The staircase is unique in that a projector illuminates animal footprints as if it were walking up the stairs. There is a magical show at the end that will surely bring you into another world of color, shapes, designs and lights. Lastly you can stop and shop at their expansive gift shop where you can find gifts for everyone, including yourself!

La Rambla, also known as Las Ramblas, is a famous and vibrant street in Barcelona, Spain. It's a lively thoroughfare, is one of the most visited areas in the city. It’s known for its bustling atmosphere, street performers, flower stalls, and terraces

Local markets like The Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria (La Boqueria), offers visitors a vast array of local food, and handcrafted goods.  It is considered one of the city's foremost tourist landmarks, with an entrance from the La Rambla. When strolling along the La Rambla, you will find many other opportunities to enjoy a café or sangria while you sit, and of course, people watch. One of my favorite things to do.

Lastly, one of my favorite places is The Cotton House, a boutique hotel by Marriott. The hotel back patio creates an ambiance with lush landscape that welcomes everyone in for a sangria and appetizers with friends.