Barcelona, You Take My Breath Away...

Can you even think of Barcelona without hearing Freddy Mercury and Monserrat Caballé belt out their passionate rendition of the unofficial anthem of the Barcelona Olympics? The drama of the song is a perfect fit for a city with so much going on.

Barcelona holds a special place in my heart, it’s a vibrant city that demands you explore its alleyways and facades with time on your hands in the incomparable Gothic Quarter and pulls you to new appreciation of the irrepressible joy in Gaudi’s works. Barcelona is what happens when we honor and preserve buildings of old, and let creative genius have its unpredictable way…

What To Do in Barcelona

Wander Through the Gothic Quarter

You must, and I can’t stress this enough, wander aimlessly through the Gothic Quarter. Wander up and down the alleyways, in and out of shops, across little squares, and gaze up at the buildings around. You must notice live music playing in the distance and follow it to its source. You must give in to temptation and eat the pastries. You must take a table outside a little eatery or bar, drink the sangria and people-watch with delight.

The famous Pont del Bisbe in the Gothic Quarter - don't look up!

The Gothic Quarter marks the old centre of the town, but is just as vibrant with commerce as it ever was, yes you will encounter tourist traps, yes you will encounter Barcelona at its most authentic too. Keep your wits about you for iconic details such as the human skull sunk into the underside of the ornate little bridge of Pont del Bisbe. Is the skull real? No-one seems too sure, but legend has it that bad luck will strike those who look directly at it! But, for those of you not hampered by superstition, it’s simply fascinating.

Just how old is the Gothic Quarter? You’d be forgiven for incorrectly assuming that it is, well, Gothic. I won’t say more as to shatter the romantic illusion of ancient roots, but regardless of its age, it’s a treasure, and a pleasure to behold.

Gaudi’s Architecture

Gaudi’s mark is indelibly left on Barcelona’s landscape, and his influence is still unavoidable in the buildings and landmarks as well as the gift shops. Barcelona is one of many places where the omnipresent On-Off tourist bus really comes into its own, and is a great way to see most of Gaudi’s buildings.

Park Güell, the famous and unformed subdivision up on the hill over looking the city is well worth your time and the ticket price – be sure to book ahead as this one does sell out well in advance. Explore the strange and beautiful sights here such as Gaudi’s own home, remarkable staircases, walls, gardenscapes and a remarkable, strange, and beautiful structure meant to be a marketplace. Marvel at the imagination and determination of a man who could create such strange beauty, and at a city willing to let him do it!

Sagrada Familia

The stunning interior of Sagrada Familia

The incredible design and detail of Sagrada Familia has to be seen to be believed. Don’t make the mistake of classifying this as ABC (Another Bloody Church) on your travels, if you see one church in your life, choose this one.

Stare at the exterior walls for hours, and you won’t take it all in. While I’m sure Gaudi’s master plan is genius, some of it looks wonderfully non-sensical to me: Towers of fruit? Could that be Storm Troopers over that ornate door? An absolute masterpiece of design, you likely know that Sagrada Familia has been under construction for over a century, and is in use as a consecrated church.

Its well worth the ticket price for a tour through the interior, where the juxtaposition of ancient and modern collide gloriously among the pillars, arches, stairways, and towers. But, if you miss the chance to get inside – go anyway, the exterior is a treat to look at on its own.

What To Eat and Drink in Barcelona

Try the sangria of course, and look out for the white sangria as well as the classic red, its more refreshing on a hot day.

Tapas, tapas, tapas! You’ll find establishments that serve it the old way, with simple, classic, dishes they’ve been serving for generations, and newer places that give it a modern twist with elegant updates and more creative inclusions – do enjoy both styles when you can!

Although not the birthplace of paella, you’d need to travel south to Valencia for that, you’ll find lots of opportunities to sample this classic, hearty, dish – make sure you do!

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Try the fabulous Hotel Colon, in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, for a unique, pretty, and very comfortable stay!