Travel Journal

We really made the most of our time in Barcelona! By cramming as much as we could into each day, we soaked up the vibrant atmosphere and stunning sights the best way we knew how. 

Day 1: The afternoon started with a leisurely wander through the Gothic Quarter, a maze of narrow, winding streets filled with history and charm. The ancient buildings and hidden courtyards made it feel like stepping back in time. After getting lost in the magic of this medieval area, we hopped on the ‘red’ route of the hop on/hop off bus. This was a great way to see the city’s highlights and get our bearings. We ended our day with a peaceful stroll along the beach, where the sound of the waves and the salty sea breeze perfectly capped off our first day.

Day 2: Was just as action-packed. We switched to the ‘blue’ route on the bus, which took us to some of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks. Our first stop was the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia. Words and photos can’t fully capture its greatness; the intricate details and sheer scale of Gaudí’s masterpiece left us in complete wonder. Next, we headed to Park Güell, another Gaudí wonderland, with its vibrant mosaics and imaginative architecture set against the backdrop of the city skyline. We also visited Camp Nou, home of FC Barcelona, which was a must-see for any football fan. Exploring the funky Gràcia neighbourhood rounded off our day. Gràcia’s bohemian vibe, with its quirky shops, street art, and lively squares, made it feel like a city within a city.

Day 3: We took the cable car up to Montjuïc Castle. The ride itself was thrilling, offering panoramic views of the city sprawled out beneath us. Once at the top, the castle provided the best vantage point to take in Barcelona’s beauty. We then rode the ancient port cable car back down, giving us fantastic views of the marina and the cruise ships docked in the port. It was a unique perspective of the city, contrasting the old and the new.

Barcelona is truly a fantastic city. It combines the elegance of Paris with its wide, tree-lined boulevards and the charm of the narrow lanes in the Gothic Quarter and chic Gràcia. But unlike Paris, Barcelona also boasts lovely beaches and a laid-back Mediterranean vibe that makes everything feel a bit more relaxed.

The city is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, many of which are Gaudí’s masterpieces. The Sagrada Familia is undoubtedly the star attraction, but there’s so much more to see. Each building seems to have its own story and unique style, making wandering the streets a constant delight.

We happened to be in Barcelona during the Spanish Grand Prix, which brought in a lot of tourists. However, the city is large enough to absorb the crowds without feeling overly crowded. No matter where we went, we were always able to find local eateries and hangouts. At night, we enjoyed sampling tapas and sipping local wines in the city’s numerous plazas. The lively atmosphere, delicious food, and friendly locals made each evening special.

Barcelona has certainly won our hearts. Its mix of history, culture, and beachside relaxation makes it a perfect destination. Hasta luego, Barcelona – we’ll definitely be back!