Off to Barcelona... any tips?

[Mike Jones]

Right, we've booked a little city break for October ( we were going to do London, but Barcelona was cheaper and should be warmer! ).. 5 nights, staying on the Ramblas... we're keen walkers, and will cover between 15 - 20 miles on most days. So far we've digested the Rough guide and have highlighted most of the 'popular' attractions for our itinerary (le Seu, Sagrada Familia, Barceloneta, the harbour area, Parc Guell, and more..) but just wondered what were your magic moments in the city? Any little known must-do's?

Mike & Amanda

 

[florida sun]

Hi Mike

I went to Barcelona for my 40th birthday and had a blast, its a fab city and you will love it. One tip if your staying on the Ramblas as we did, is that it is very very expensive to eat and drink on the main street so to speak, but we found some wonderful resturants and bars down at the back and side streets which were half the cost, however it is lovely to sit in the sunshine on the Ramblas watching all the street entertainers with a large cold beer! Ive listed below a few of our highlights:

• Gothic Quarter
Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, which lies at the heart of the city, is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and remnants of the past. Here visitors will find several of Barcelona’s most esteemed museums and monuments, as well as a plethora of art galleries, artisan boutiques, shops, and restaurants.

• Cathedral of Barcelona
This impressive structure is the gem of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. The cathedral, which was built mostly during the 14th century (the façade is from the 19th century), lies on the remains of both Roman worship grounds, as well as an ancient basilica, and is dedicated to Saint Eulalia, patron saint of Barcelona. Its giant lacework steeples overlook a plaza, which is always filled with street performers, antique markets, and artists

• Casa Batllo
Another one of Gaudi’s amazing creations, Casa Batllo was built for the private residence of a wealthy textile industrialist, Joseph Batllo. The house is a modern interpretation of Barcelona’s medieval roots, with a rainbow of dragon scale shingles on the roof, and skeleton-like railings for the balconies. The inside is open to visitors, and displays some of Gaudi’s furnishing creations as well

• Casa Mila
Casa Mila, also called “the Quary” because of its rock-like façade, was Gaudi’s last private commission. Although the apartment building still maintains some residences, most of the structure is open to visitors. There is a special exhibition housed in the attic of the Casa Mila, which includes models and explanations of all Gaudi’s projects. Especially interesting, is the wonderland of rooftop chimneys and staircases that visitors can traverse, while circling a large opening to the building’s central courtyard.

Picasso Museum (Museu Picasso), Barcelona
This museum is dedicated to the work of legendary painter Pablo Picasso, showcasing over three thousand six hundred paintings, sculptures and drawings.

Fantastic Market
Mercat de Sant Josep/ La Boqueria
La Rambla de Sant Josep
Metro: Liceu, (Green Line, L3)
Mon-Sat 8am-8pm

Probably Barcelona’s best-known market, ideally situated just off the Rambla this market is a must whether sourcing ingredients for a fine meal or just wandering through. It´s an assault on the senses with smells coming from the fish to fruit. The food sold ranges from ready-made fresh fruit salads for the tired tourist, to literally fresh out of the sea still moving crabs and lobsters Not to mention the bright sweet counters that will act like a magnet for any child (or adult!).

We also took an open top bus ride around the city, which was great, and the harbour, esp if the cruise ships are in are def worth a look. There is also a fabulous fountain with a laser/Music show right in the heart of the city.

Hope this helps

 

[Mike Jones]

Ta Sue.... loads to go on there!

 

[Cyrano]

Barcelona is a great city. We eat often in Place Reial http://www.virtualtourist.com/trave...654/Nightlife-Barcelona-Placa_Reial-BR-1.html

Miro Foundation up on the hill is a lovely afternoon out

 

[Mike Jones]

Thank you!

 

[mandymouse]

Sorry no tips ~ Just have a great time

 

[Minniespal]

Looking forward to another great trip report Mike

 

[wideeyes]

Barcelona is a wonderful city and La Rambla is excellent for atmosphere, when we ere there they had a lot of street entertainment.
however they are some really annoying people selling stuff who find it hard to understand "No, I don't want to buy anything!" they are very persistent and it is very bad for picket pockets, though I suppose most cities are.
I love the Sagrada Familia as it is very unusual especially as it has a Christmas tree at the top of it.