Beautiful Barcelona
When Nate and I finally decided on our Mediterranean cruise this year, I was thrilled to embark from Barcelona, Spain, because I love visiting new places I haven’t seen yet and exploring the world more.
I must admit I didn’t know a whole lot about Barcelona before our trip because it had never quite made it to the top of my “must visit” bucket list. But now, after experiencing the romance of the city and the warm hospitality of the people, Barcelona is one of my favorite cities!
I’m so glad we chose to fly in early so we could have a little extra time discovering all the beauty Barcelona holds.
If you have followed along with my Europe adventures at all, you know that I experienced unexpected and unseasonable precipitation throughout the whole trip, and Barcelona was no exception. It rained all three days I was there!😂 However, I was blessed with some pockets of sunshine, and I took full advantage of them.
At the top of my must-see list was La Sagrada Família. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, construction began over a century ago in 1882, but the structural work isn’t scheduled to be completed until 2026! I can’t wait to return then because this incredible, unique cathedral is unlike any I’ve ever seen.
Unfortunately, there was quite a prolonged rainstorm the day of my visit (fun fact: “the rain in Spain does not actually stay mainly on the plain” 😉) but even in the rain, La Sagrada Família is a sight to behold.
When the rains finally let up, I had the opportunity to walk through the Gothic Quarter and visit the Picasso Museum.
I loved walking the cobblestone streets and perusing the local artisan goods. The Picasso Museum holds over 4,200 pieces of art in five interconnected Medieval palaces. On the day of my visit, there was even a local performance group putting on a show. I enjoyed walking through Citadel Park (where the Barcelona City Zoo is located) to the Arc de Triomf, which was built as the main entrance gate for the 1888 Barcelona Worlds Fair.
I loved to people-watch here…from local artists, to families out for a walk, and bicyclists zooming by. But my favorite had to be catching an impromptu cyr wheel performance by Pedro Benavides, who is a wonderful artist and skilled athlete.
On my last morning in Barcelona, I got up early to visit Park Güell…and while it was raining off and on, when the sun came out I spent as much time as I could soaking up the rich colors and natural beauty here.
From the intricate and bright mosaic tile work throughout, to the bird nests built into the terrace walls, Park Güell took my breath away with sweeping views of Barcelona all the way to the bay.
Park Güell was the only attraction I didn’t walk to from my hotel, Hotel Casa Fuster (See my recent post for a full overview of my wonderful stay here).
I delighted in the many dining options throughout Barcelona, and one of my favorite spots was just a few blocks from our hotel…La Pepita/La Cava. I felt like a local as I stuffed myself with the delicious tapas. When it was time to board my cruise ship, I was sad to say goodbye and I sailed away with a new love for this city. Barcelona is a city filled with life, beauty, and music. The streets sing and the people are warm and welcoming. I can’t wait to return again soon!
