Eight places not to miss in Bacelona
The city of Barcelona is located in Catalonia. This region of northeastern Spain is known for its beaches and its mountains, and the city offers a variety of cultural and historical landmarks. Visitors will be able to explore the city during a guided trip, by bike and on foot, by following the Ramblas boulevards that link the city center to the Mediterranean sea.
The Sagrada Familia Cathedral.
The Sagrada Familia Cathedral is one of the city’s main symbols. This unfinished cathedral was designed by Gaudí. The cathedral’s interior has several naves with vaulted ceilings and thin bony columns. Each facade has its own theme, filled with stone carvings and sculptures, and most of the facade are yet to be completed. Visitors will be able to climb up two of the four completed towers to enjoy views from the top.
Casa Batlló.
Located in the Eixample district,steps away from the boutique-filled Gracia street, this private house was designed for a local family by Gaudí. There are skull shaped balconies and the sandstone facade is decorated with many small and colourful mosaic pieces, the traditional trencadis.
Casa Milá.
This large building has a wavy facade and is one of the most famous buildings in the Eixample district. The building was built without any straight lines. Tours are organized around the patio, one of the colourful apartments and the rooftops, which are large terraces with chimneys that have the shape of warrior statues from where visitors can enjoy the views towards the city center. There is a gallery dedicated to the architect on the top floor of the building where visitors will be able to see more of his designs.
Gothic Quarter.
This ancient neighbourhood is located close to the Ciutat Vella, the historical city center. The city’s Gothic Seu cathedral and the nearby cloister are the district’s most famous landmarks. The narrow cobbled streets are decorated with Gothic arches and lead to many plazas lined with churches, markets and terrace bars. Some of the city’s most visited hotels are located in this area, and there are a couple of affordable hostels and apartments near the Plaza de Reial square.
Boquería Market.
A short walk away from Las Ramblas main boulevards is the Boquería Market, one of the city’s most famous markets. The market has many colourful stalls where visitors can buy fresh fruit juice and a variety of fruit, meat and vegetables from the region.
Parc Güell.
This park is located on a hill farther away from the city center. It was designed by Gaudí and visitors will be able to visit the architect’s house, which was later transformed into a museum. The park has a large, tiled observation deck that has views towards the city and the sea.
Ciutadella Park.
This park is located closer to the city center. The park has a large territory with historical buildings that have been converted into museums, many fountains and a zoo.
Montjuic.
Montjuic is a hill located in the center of Barcelona. The National Palace is located at the top of the hill. The Magic Fountain of Montjuic is famous for its colourful lights shows that visitors will be able to enjoy during their stay in Barcelona.
