With a large population of 1.5 million people, Barcelona is Spain’s second largest city.
Of the northeastern coast of Spain, is where this artistic city located. Meaning it has one of the most beautiful beaches that I have ever seen. The hundreds of other people who are tanning on the Barceloneta beach would have to agree.
Barcelona is under constant renovations, but somehow the charms of the old city still remain and are the highlights of the city. Many tourists, notice the crisp and modern public building, yet this the here and now 21st century influence. The real gems are the historic architectures.
Looking for the most iconic “European destination”? Search no more. Barcelona is packed with beaches, outdoor markets, restaurants/shops, cultural activities, museums and churches. With an extensive easy-to-navigate METRO system, it is easy to travel through the city. By using the public transportation, it will allow you more time to see the stunning masterpieces of Antonio Gaudi, Flamenco dancers, large outdoor markets, and more.
Plaça de Catalunya
You can’t avoid the Plaça de Catalunya. It is located at the start of the most famous street in all of “La Rambla” (the city’s center). You might recognize this square in many films, and with good reason. Due to the charming arcitiexture of the square, interesting street vendors, and its local feathery inhabitants (pigeons) it attracts a plethora of visitors. VIsit Plaça de Catalunya to take part in the bird feedings! But, if this is not your forte, you can also shop, eat, and watch a Flamenco performance, Spain’s traditional dance.
Flamenco Dance
Flamenco dance is a passionate and expressive, traditional Spanish dance. The flamenco is usually performed by one dancer. He or she uses repetitive hand clapping and detailed body movements, along with percussive footwork, that echoes through the room. The dance is usually complemented by a singer and guitar player, as seen in the photo above.
Although Flamenco is a traditional Spanish dance has be influenced by Indian and Arabic cultures. Because of the quick and rhythmic body and foot movements, it is not uncommon for a Flamenco dancers to burn over 800 calories per performance! It takes years of hard work and practice to become a professional Flamenco dancer. You can feel the power and emotions that come from the dancers bodies and facial expressions.
During the performance expect the tempo and emotion to change with each song, be prepared to leave your jaw on the floor and your money in the tip jar. Located inside the Plaça de Catalunya, is Tarantos Barcelona an excellent Flamenco Dance performance center. Tarantos Barcelona is the oldest tablao flamenco in Barcelona (since 1963) and their performances show their authentic. You will not be disappointed. Tickets are about $17 per adult and can be purchased in advance online at https://tarantosbarcelona.com/en/.
Market- Mercat de la Boqueria
Fresh fruits, candies, pastries, souvenirs, and more! The Mercat de la Boqueria (Boqueria Market) has something that everyone will like. It is one of the most iconic locations in Barcelona. If you are a food lover, be sure to come with an empty stomach. This market is located off of the most famous street in Barcelona, yes you guess it, Las Ramblas.
This large market is the perfect place to buy fruit and vegetables for the locals, yet with an increase tourism there are more venders selling souvenir items as well. “The colorful market is a 2,500-square meter labyrinth home to approximately 300 stands.”
Barceloneta Beach
Which beach should you go in Barcelona? Well Barceloneta Beach of course! This beach is not by any means a destination for those who want a quiet swim and an undisturbed tan. If you enjoy live scenes with bars, restaurants, street performers, and perhaps parties on the beach, then look no further.
Gaudi- Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Família is a enormous Basilica in the heart of Barcelona. This masterpiece was created by Antoni Gaudi, a famous architect that had one most brilliant minds in history. The construction Sagrada Familia start in 1882, yes that’s correct over 130 years ago.
“Gaudí played an active role in directing the construction of the Sagrada Família until his death in 1926. He would often request that work be modified and adjusted until it was exactly what he had in mind. However today, because of the nature of the existing designs, his work is partly open to interpretation.”
When walking into the majestic basilica, you are greeted by 10 feet Ivy leaf brass doors. After passing thought these mighty doors, the ceiling opens up to what seems to be a kaleidoscope dream. The infrastructure is decorated with intricate stained glass windows and soring columns.
Parc Güell (Park Güell)
This is another masterpiece by Gaudi that is equally as beautiful as the Sagrada Familia is the Parc Güell. This neighborhood was uniquely created by Gaudí for one of his biggest clients, Eusebi Güell i Bacigalupi. In these buildings you can see the true style of Gaudi and what influences inspired his work.
Take a scenic walk through the trails and become surround by nature, art, and history, This place is a triple threat
“Most buildings have the “trencadis” (surfaces covered with irregular ceramic pieces) that is characteristic of Gaudí and Art Nouveau.” The colonnaded hall (as seen in the picture below) is the most famous places in this park.
SagradaFamilia.org
Lonelyplanet.com
The Wayward Explorer 