How to Spend 3 Days in Barcelona
- Charlotte Cuddihy
- Aug 7, 2019
- 5 min read
Barcelona...where to start? Barcelona is entirely mesmerising in every sense of the word. From famous architecture unlike anything else in the world to some of the best dining in Europe and not to mention the fashion. If you've an interest in culture and architecture, Barcelona may very well become your favourite city. Even if you couldn't care less, trust me you'll be blown away by what you'll see.
What to See
Works of Gaudí - La Sagrada Familía & Casa Batlló
The inspiring ancient stone pathways leading you from Gothic corners through stunning plazas and monuments of masterpieces. Antoni Gaudí is often referred to as one of the greatest descendants of Catalan creativity. His designs and creations are stand alone, one of a kind. Each piece of Gaudí's works is simply incomparable among all else. If you're in Barcelona for even a day, be sure to add his main work 'La Sagrada Familia' to your itinerary. Gaudí worked on the cathedral right up to his death on June 10, 1926. As it stands, the unfinished work is set an estimated completion date of 2026.
Casa Batlló, another Guadí masterpiece you shouldn't miss out on. The locals refer to this particular artwork as 'Casa dels ossos' or 'the house of bones', with it's shape familiarising skeletal qualities. Located on Passaig de Grácia, you'll spot it a mile away, as with all Gaudí's other creations, Casa Batlló is remarkable identifiable.
Parc de la Ciutadella
Looking to impress your partner? Take them to Parc de la Ciutadella, for a romantic stroll. I for one was blown away with the views, which were complemented by the evening sky as the sun was setting. Making this trip around 8 p.m. - 8.30 p.m. by the time you make you're way around the park the sun will start setting, and the scenery is automatically enhanced by the vast multitude of pinks and reds in the sky. The 70 acre park is filled with the city zoo (we did not schedule enough time for this in our three days, but would certainly make time on our next visit), a small lake (where you can make the experience even more memorable by renting a small boat), museums, and a large fountain designed by Josep Fontserè (with possible contributions Antoni Gaudí - can you tell I'm obsessed with Catalan architecture?).
Arc de Triumf
Following this, take a stroll 2 minutes directly down the street to witness the Arc de Triumf. Earlier in the year we visited the famous Arc de Trioumph in the beautiful Paris, it felt only right to visit her sister in the following trip. It was built by architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas as in 1888 with the purpose of becoming the main access gate for the Barcelona World Fair. Ectending across the promenade of the Passeig de Lluís Companys, You'll find this at the beginning of the promenade, facing the Passeig de Sant Joan. Filled with live entertainment at all times of the day, from skateboarders to artistic footballers, to characters in dress up. There's so much to see here.
What to Do
Follow the Sun
One things for sure, you won't run out of things to do in Barcelona. For those, like myself, that enjoy chasing the sun. Good news, Barcelona is full of sun drenched beaches and rooftop pools. Our first day brought us to Barceloneta beach. The beach is great if you want to chill out completely with a refreshing swim, rent a bike or even just go for a stroll. Our hotel Catalonia Barcelona Plaza Hotel, located directed on Plaza d'Espana was fitted with a rooftop pool, offering the most gorgeous scenery inclusive of the plaza, the Montjuïc area, the magic fountains etc. I could lie there all day, looking at the scenery, of course the rooftop bar next to the pool helped too!
Go to A Match at Camp Nou
Another experience I completely recommend. Even if you aren't a big football fan, which I wouldn't really be. I'd have a general interest in all sports, where as I could watch a match and have interest but I couldn't watch multiple matches a week. But, the atmosphere in Camp Nou, is incredible and something everyone should experience, and we just attended the friendly between FC Barcelona & Arsenal. Seeing how much respect and love the people of Barcelona have for their team, especially for Messi, is so lovely. It feels like the community is brought together by it like one big family. I loved every second of the game. The stadium, being the largest in Europe and the third largest in the world, is a must-see regardless if you attend a match or tour. Although, the match was for my boyfriend I would 100% go again next time.
Las Ramblas
While the match tickets were for my boyfriend, I got to do my favourite past time too, shopping. Las Ramblas is certainly up the with the likes of Champs d'Élysée in Paris. Everything you could imagine and or want is located on this street, from Prada to Tiffany's to H&m and Zara. Prepare to spend some serious cash in very little time. It was incredible though and the fashion is so sophisticated, which is my favourite style.
Where to Eat/Drink
Barcelona has an abundance of choice in regards to dining. A few places stood out for me over the trip though. Firstly, for the best Paella, take a trip to Lez Quinze Nits. Prepare to be mislead though. The sophisticated, fancy design and overflowing crowds would lead you to believe this restaurant is out-of-the-budget. You would be sadly mistaken, epsecially if you skipped out on this experience based on those preconceptions. I had some of the best food I've ever eaten on completely reasonable prices. We ordered a Mediterranean hummus to start, while selecting the Chef's choice of the Paella del Mar (seafood paella) for the main. I had chosen this restaurant as it had reviews of the best Paella in Barcelona, they weren't wrong, and all for €14 per person. What a bargain, I could not eat for nearly a day after I was so full too.
If you're interested in authentic Catalan gastronomy, take a trip to Mercat la Boquería. One of the most famous markets in the world. Located on Las Ramblas, another street worth checking out if you have any interest in fashion! As ou can imagine I was pulled away from here. La Boquería dates back to 1217, offering everything from cured Iberian hams, fresh fruit, coconut milk (directly from a coconut, bombas (balls of chicken and rice) and most importantly CHURROS.
Hope you enjoyed this post, and it may help if you find yourself in Barcelona. It was definitely my favourite trip of 2019, if not my favourite ever.
Thanks for reading,
Char
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