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Barcelona — Art, Architecture & the Mediterranean
Barcelona is one of those cities that sweeps you up the moment you arrive — the energy, the architecture, the sea breeze, the sound of Spanish and Catalan mixing in the air. Whether you’re here for the art, the food, or just to soak up the Mediterranean vibe, a few days in Barcelona offers the perfect mix of culture, sunshine, and tapas-filled evenings.
Day 1: Wandering the Gothic Quarter & First Tastes of Barcelona
After landing around 4:30PM, we checked in, freshened up, and headed straight to the Gothic Quarter, one of Barcelona’s oldest and most atmospheric neighborhoods. It’s easy to get lost here (in the best way), narrow medieval alleys, hidden courtyards, and beautiful old façades around every corner.
We stopped at the Barcelona Cathedral, whose dramatic spires rise above the old town, then crossed under the picturesque Pont de Bisbe (Bridge of Sighs), a stone bridge that looks like it was made for photos. From there, we wandered down La Rambla, the famous tree-lined boulevard that leads toward the waterfront, passing flower stalls, street performers, and cafés buzzing with evening energy.
Dinner that night was at RAO Restaurant, a cozy spot known for its creative twist on Catalan dishes. Definitely worth making a reservation for; try the grilled octopus and ceviche. Afterward, we headed next-door to a little bar called Número Tres, where we toasted our first night in Spain with cocktails before heading back to our hotel for the night.
Day 2: Gaudí, Parks, and Paella
Our second day was all about Barcelona’s most famous artist — Antoni Gaudí. We started at Park Güell, one of his most colorful and whimsical creations. The mosaic-covered benches, winding staircases, and panoramic views over the city are unforgettable. We stopped into the Gaudí House Museum, where you get a peek into his life and design process.
For lunch, we had a table at Gats, a stylish restaurant tucked away in El Raval, perfect for a leisurely midday meal. From there, we hopped on the metro, passing the Arc de Triomf before heading into Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona’s most beloved green space. Make sure to take your time here and find the Cascada monumental, a beautiful historical monument surrounded by water. Locals picnic under palm trees, musicians play near the fountain, and the whole park feels like a calm escape from the city buzz.
By late afternoon, we were ready for a dip in the rooftop pool back at our hotel before heading to one of our favorite experiences of the trip, a cooking class at The Paella Club. We joined a small group to make a four-course meal (including, of course, paella!) paired with local wines and lots of laughter. It was such a fun, social evening that we ended up going out for drinks afterward with some new friends at Two Schmucks, a lively cocktail bar in the Raval area.
Day 3: Icons of Architecture and a Taste of Local Life
We saved our final day for Barcelona’s crown jewel — La Sagrada Família. Even if you’ve seen photos, nothing compares to seeing Gaudí’s masterpiece in person. We climbed one of the towers for sweeping city views, then wandered slowly through the colorful, light-filled interior.
Lunch was at Cervecería Catalana, a beloved local tapas spot where everything is delicious and always a little crowded (a good sign). From there, we passed La Pedrera (Casa Milà) and then visited Casa Batlló, another of Gaudí’s masterpieces, its wavy, colorful façade looks almost alive.
Afterwards, we walked along Passeig de Gràcia, home to Barcelona’s most famous modernist buildings and some of its best shopping. We each picked up a LV passport holder, my sister got hers hot stamped, which is a fun souvenir!
That afternoon, we took one last swim in the rooftop pool, soaking in the view of the city before dinner at Brugarol Barcelona, a stylish restaurant tucked away in the Gothic Quarter. The 9-course tasting menu and wine pairing ended up being one of our favorite meals of the trip. It was the perfect final meal, relaxed, local, and full of flavor.
Day 4: Onward to Seville
The next morning, we caught an early train to Seville, ready for the next chapter of our Spanish adventure — but not before one last coffee and pastry at a local café.
Final Thoughts
Barcelona is a city that truly has it all — beaches, art, food, and endless character. In just a few days, you can see its most iconic sights, taste its best tapas, and soak in that unmistakable Mediterranean rhythm.
Where to Stay
We based ourselves at 45 Times Barcelona Hotel, which turned out to be the perfect spot for exploring. The rooftop pool was a dream for afternoon breaks — especially after hours of walking through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.
H10 Madison – another hotel that came recommended to us. It’s a trendy upscale hotel located in the Gothic Quarter near the Barcelona Cathedral, amazing rooftop terrace lounge and pool.
