Barcelona – the Gaudi city

Barcelona is a colourful and vibrant city in the Catalonian region of Spain. With only four days at our disposal, I chalked out an eventful schedule to soak in the delights of this city in a short time.

We arrived in Barcelona during the week of the Merce Festival. It was a festive time as we discovered later. There was drumming and music while people formed human pyramids (or Castellers). On nearby streets, there was a parade of giant figures of kings and queens.

Walking around the city

Our hotel was just off the central square, Plaza de Catalunya. It was in the vicinity of the action, but sheltered from the noise and crowds. We covered a lot of the surrounding areas on foot, checking out the famous tree-lined La Rambla and the Gothic Quarter.  There’s much to see and you can discover an interesting building or carved façade in every laneway.

About halfway down La Rambla, the Boqueria Mercado (Market) is a colourful display of the freshest food. I drank a variety of fresh fruit juices everytime we were out. There are plenty of tapas bars and restaurants along the main walking strip. However, if you venture into one of the side lanes, you can get some pretty good food at a lower price.

If you keep walking south, you will arrive at the Rambla de Mar. The tall column of Christopher Columbus points towards the sea, perhaps in the direction of America? As we strolled along the Maremagnum bridge to the harbour, I was alarmed when a siren sounded and people started running back or forward. It took me a while to figure out that this mobile bridge swings open to let through sailing vessels with high masts. Phew!

There are several hop-on hop-off buses starting in the Plaza and you can interchange to different routes. The architect Antoni Gaudi’s works of art are dotted around the city. Among his well-known works are the Casa Batllo, Park Guell and his masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia (Holy Family) Basilica.

Sagrada Familia

To visit the Sagrada Familia, buy tickets online in advance as daily numbers are limited. You will be astounded at the creative detail in every section, the carved porticos, stained glass windows, altar, ceiling and staircase. Every area is a stunning work of art. Building commenced in the early 19th century. Gaudi did not live to see his ambitious project completed. Due to the complex designs and the high cost, contributions from commercial and religious organizations are funding the project. They anticipate it will be finished in 2026.

There are several concert venues around the city if you are interested in flamenco dancing. The Palau de la Musica Catalana is one of the more opulent venues. The dancers were animated and dramatic, swishing their skirts with flair. Make sure you view the outside of the building and admire the intricate carving and floral artwork.

The Magic Fountains of Montjuic are pretty especially at night when they are lit up.

If you like sports or soccer in particular, you will enjoy a tour of Camp Nou, the famous football stadium and home of the Barcelona Football Club.

Montserrat

Montserrat (serrated mountain) is about an hour out of Barcelona. You can visit the Monastery which is known for its Black Madonna statue.  A funicular train takes you to the peak. Follow the walking trail for sweeping views of the city below.

Valencia

There are several seaside towns just out of Barcelona for a day trip, within an hour or two by train.

Valencia is a bit further away, a 3-hour train journey. You can do a day trip if you start early. It’s a small but amazing city with plenty of attractions and known for:

• its oranges of the same name
• the gothic Cathedral supposedly housing the Holy Grail
• La Miguelette Bell Tower (around 200 steps to the top) 
• sunny beaches
• street art  
• unconventional events like the tomato-throwing festival and bull-fighting.

Barcelona … the Gaudi city … is one of my favourites in the world and I would go back there any time. I have yet to meet anyone who said they did not absolutely love it.