I have been spending quite a bit of time in Barcelona as of
late. I feel like I’ve really come to learn the city. I know where things like
the grocery stores and Laundromats are and I have favorite hot spots and
restaurants. I really feel like I know if better than I know Baltimore or DC
which Iived 30/45 minutes outside of for almost 10 years!
I can list off the best tourist sites and the slightly
hidden gems. I know the best fresh juice stand at La Boqueria (open air market
of La Rambla) and which one over charges you. I can get around the metro like
its my job (it kind of is haha) and I just feel comfortable. I can understand
super basic catalan signs and speak well enough Spanish to make dinner
reservations and coordinate with bus drivers and soccer team facility managers.
I have picked up tickets for concerts, tours and soccer games in various
locations around the city. I know which streets are a bit dodgy at night and
which sections aren’t so bad. It’s a really cool feeling to have a city so far
from home that I feel so comfortable in.
Some of my absolute must see spots are:
La Sagrada Familia – The massive church a little ways
outside the city designed by Gaudi (Who tragically died when he was hit by a
tram on one of his daily walks. They thought he was a homeless person for a few
days before he was identified as the city’s greatest artist). It’s beautiful
beyond all belief and MASSIVE. It’s still under construction and won’t be
finished for another ten years or so.
FC Barcelona’s Stadium Camp Nou – I love this stadium. I
love this team. Let’s go Barca! So much passion and history behind this awesome
place. Definitely a must see museum/tour. And holy gift shop! Three floors!
Park Guell – Another Gaudi influence. This park is so pretty
with tons of trails that you can hike for free. You can enter the main sector
for a small fee and the view is breathtaking! Though the line can be long so
buy tickets ahead of time!
La Boqueria – This is the open air market off La Rambla
(often referred to as Las Ramblas by the locals). It is so neat! There are tons
of fresh fruits, juices and candies. It’s also right next to La Rambla which
has some neat shops, street vendors and of course Crepes! The Crepes on La
Rambla are probably my favorite crepes I’ve ever had.
There’s so many sights worth seeing but those are probably
my top 4!
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