Barcelona: Catalonia's Jewel

Prepare your walking shoes, this is a city to be explored by foot

SPAIN

As you roam around Europe, you'll notice a striking similarity in the architecture and landscapes, especially in the sunny southern countries like Portugal, Spain, and Italy.

Yet, despite these commonalities, each country possesses a unique magic thanks to its distinct language, delectable cuisine, and diverse culture.

Spain, in particular, has a knack for giving every traveler a one-of-a-kind experience in each city they visit. It might not have been a deliberate plan, but the renowned Barcelona, exudes a completely different vibe compared to the capital Madrid.

BARCELONA

Barcelona sets itself apart from other Spanish cities and indeed, from any other city in Europe, fueled by the Catalan pride, with aspirations for their region to become its own country.

It's hard to predict where this will lead in the future, but for now, Barcelona proudly maintains its original language, Castellano, along with its unique culture.

It's perhaps the most famous and sought-after town in Spain, and it lives up to the hype. But let's get a few things straight:

If you speak Spanish and assume you'll be just fine, remember that they prefer to use their native Castellano, which can be a bit different from standard Spanish, but it won't be a problem communicating with the locals, just a little distinct.

This city home of so many stories, has one of the most breathtaking tourists sites I've ever seen, and the most vibrant energy of any European town.

WHAT TO DO

Barcelona truly lives up to expectations. I vividly recall arriving in the city, hopping on the underground subway to reach my Airbnb, and as I stepped out of the station, I was met with the grandeur of La Sagrada Familia.

I definitely didn't expect to encounter one of Barcelona's most iconic sights within my very first minute in the city.

What other city in the world can boast a church that's been under construction since 1882 and is still a work in progress?

La Sagrada Familia is nothing short of awe-inspiring. This colossal structure, in the making for years on end, is a sight to behold and a treat for the eyes.

trigitip: There's a wealth of history and intricate details about La Sagrada Familia that make investing in a tour guide well worth it. It adds a whole new layer of understanding and appreciation to the experience.

I didn't have the funds set aside for a tour guide, so once I settled into my room, I dove into some quick research about the history and delved into Antoni Gaudi's visionary mind.

However, merely reading about it left me wanting more, and in hindsight, I should have splurged on a guide. While tourists can purchase tickets online to explore the cathedral from the inside, let me share a golden tip.

trigitip: For the ultimate experience, aim to schedule your trip to Barcelona on a Sunday. Plan to arrive at the church by 7 am, or even better, by 6 am if you can manage it.

Head straight to the line. On Sundays, visitors can enter for free to attend mass. However, once the chapel reaches its capacity, no more people can enter for free. By 8 am, the line is usually already quite long.

MUST DO

Barcelona offers a whirlwind of experiences. The old town alone can keep you captivated for days. The ever-changing history and architecture by neighborhood are a treat for history buffs.

And for shopaholics, the charming local stores and their tales might just tempt you to splurge. If you're on a budget, consider steering clear—those little shops can be a bit pricey.

The Gothic neighborhood is a real eye-opener. Unlike many European cities where Gothic style is confined to the churches, it seeps into the very streets, houses, and shops. It's no wonder this area steals the hearts of countless tourists.

trigitip: Consider grabbing a tour guide for the Barcelona old town. Among all the cities in Spain, Barcelona is the place to do it. Madrid and the others? Not so much.

Barcelona is eminently walkable, being a flat city. You can easily rack up your daily steps without a hitch. This way, you can indulge in the delectable food and fantastic wine without feeling too weighed down.

trigitip: If you're a wine lover, Spain is your haven. The bottles at the supermarket are a steal, and the quality is consistently top-notch. Don't forget to find a cozy spot to savor some sangria al fresco.

THE BEACH

The beach is pleasant, though not exactly world-class. Maybe I'm just comparing it to the beaches in Brazil or Mexico. If you're looking to catch some waves, I'd recommend a short train ride to the beaches near the city. They're less crowded, cleaner, and all-around nicer.

trigitip for the LGBTQ+ Community: In close proximity, you'll find a host of other cities easily accessible by train, like Sitges. This town, a favorite among the LGBTQ+ community, offers a blast for everyone, no matter their gender or sexual orientation. It's a vibrant, lively place.

For the seasoned traveler, especially those who've explored other parts of the Mediterranean, you'll quickly notice that the beaches on the eastern side of the sea don't quite measure up in terms of water and sand quality.

Nevertheless, they promise a great time. These beaches may not be ideal for a swim, but they come into their own later in the day.

It's the perfect spot to gather with friends or fellow travelers, savor some wine, and soak in the breeze.