I have traveled to Spain three times so far, in addition to some extensive travel throughout Western Europe for both leisure and business, but there are just some locations that I can’t get enough of. Barcelona has so many fascinating attractions that I think I could live there for a year and still be curious. Nothing is more exciting than experiencing the beauty of history and culture that is different than your own and there is something for every one in these majestic ancient cities.
The first stop in Barcelona that you must make is obviously to La Sagrada Familia. It is the most well-known masterpiece in the area gets the most tourist traffic due to it’s grandeur and massive scale that you can’t help but be amazed by. On my first visit to this historic site, I was not aware that construction on the building was still in progress until I read a pamphlet from the city stating that work would most likely continue for another 25 years! This building has been around for nearly 130 years and just keeps on getting better.
For those tourists interested in shopping around the city, you must frequent Calle Feran. This street connects with Las Ramblas, the other extremely famous area in the city that you won’t want to miss. Both streets feature local restaurants, bars and shops and some of the most fabulous fashion shopping you could ask for, especially if you want to bring back a bit of the local look. When strolling through these areas it is not unusual to encounter street performers and local folks there to entertain tourists and they give such an old-world feel to the entire experience. However, I must warn the ladies out there, if you are headed to a restaurant or bar and wearing heels, beware of areas of cobblestone. I nearly lost a shoe on a cobblestone street one night and found myself walking on my toes the rest of the evening.
And you can’t forget the Gothic Quarter. This is the old quarter of the city where those cobblestone streets seem to be everywhere, but they really do set a reminiscent tone. Those who have an interest in art will want to check out this region since Picasso lived and worked there for many years. Many other local artists have come from a background in this particular region of Barcelona and the site of an artist in the street painting one of the city’s historic landmarks makes you truly appreciate the beauty and history of Barcelona. There are many other incredible scenes to behold along way, so don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path and find some new treasures to explore.
