BARCELONA - City Guide

A few days in Barcelona.

The idea of going to Barcelona was always appealing to us, but to be fair, we didn’t actually plan for it. When we were in Europe, having friends living in this country opened the door for us to visit — so we packed our backpacks and made our way to Barcelona.

The city itself was beautiful. The architecture, the trees lining the streets, the scenery — all of it felt incredibly inviting.

Here are some of our favorite spots to visit in Barcelona.

La Boqueria

One of the craziest and coolest mercados we’ve ever been to. Fresh fruits and vegetables, candies, canned goods, and best of all — dry meats everywhere (one of the most popular things in Spain, and we completely understand why).

If you’re going to this market, know that it will be busy — not just with tourists, but also locals who come here for groceries.

In some of the stalls inside the market, you can try meats and other small tastings of various things — of course, only if they’re offered.

Tip: There are a lot of people, so try to keep your money and purse close and securely closed or locked.

A beautiful and vibrant arch created by architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas for the first Spanish World Fair in 1888, designed as the main entrance to the fair.

Built in 1888 as the main entrance to the Barcelona World Exposition, the Arc de Triomf stands as a symbol of openness and celebration rather than victory. Its warm red brick, detailed carvings, and Moorish-inspired design already make it a magnificent structure — but what truly brings it to life is the energy that surrounds it every day.

We loved walking by and through it in both the mornings and evenings, when the light changes and the atmosphere shifts. There always seemed to be something happening around it — people strolling toward the park, musicians filling the air with sound, small performances unfolding naturally, and families, couples, and friends enjoying the wide promenade beneath the arch.

Standing there, watching life move through this historic gateway, made it feel less like a monument and more like a living part of the city — a place where Barcelona’s past and present meet in the most joyful way.

Arc de Triomf

La Sagrada Familia

Designed by the Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, combining Gothic and curvilinear Art Nouveau forms, its design is absolutely stunning — incredibly diverse and beautiful. The carved figures on the exterior stone are impressive from far away and breathtaking up close.

On Sundays, you can attend the International Mass Service at 9:00 a.m. for free.

Now let me talk about this stunning church from a more emotional place, with fewer technicalities.

There’s something truly magical about this space. All the figures and scenes on the exterior walls are so beautiful and powerful — you can feel that they’re trying to tell you something, showing you the story behind them. The color of the stone gives you this sense of warmth right in your chest, and as you wait to go inside, that feeling just settles deeper.

The interior is very different from what you see outside. Sunlight pours through the stained-glass windows, the massive columns draw your eyes upward toward the marvelous ceiling. I’d even say it feels more serene — simpler, more polished — and yet still incredibly beautiful. But, as they say, there is so much beauty in simplicity.

Things to Know Before You Attend

• Free Entry: No tickets needed for these specific services
  
  

• Arrive Early: Capacity is limited; aim to arrive by 8:30 a.m. to secure a spot
  
  

• Security: You’ll go through security and exit promptly after Mass
  
  

• Dress Code: Dress respectfully (no see-through clothing; skirts/trousers to mid-thigh)
  
  

No Photos: Photography is prohibited before and during Mass

Parc de la Ciutadella

Another fun place to explore is Parc de la Ciutadella. You can visit museums, walk around the small lake, admire the fountain, or even venture into the city’s zoo.

Parc de la Ciutadella is one of those places where Barcelona slows down just enough for you to notice it breathing. Originally built in the 19th century on the grounds of a former military fortress, the park was transformed into a public space meant for gathering, leisure, and beauty — and you can still feel that intention as soon as you step inside.

We loved wandering through the park at different times of day, watching it shift with the light and the people passing through. The wide paths, palm trees, and shaded corners invite you to linger, whether that means sitting on the grass, walking hand in hand, or simply people-watching for a while. There’s always life unfolding around you — musicians playing softly in the background, locals reading or picnicking, children running freely, and couples enjoying the calm away from the city’s faster pace.

The fountain, inspired by classical architecture, feels almost theatrical, while the lake and open green spaces add a sense of openness and ease. Being there felt grounding — a reminder that even in a vibrant city like Barcelona, there’s space for quiet moments, connection, and unhurried time. Parc de la Ciutadella became one of those places where we didn’t feel the need to rush, but instead let the city meet us where we were.

Jon Cake

This might seem random, but we absolutely love cheesecake — and we were genuinely surprised when our friends took us to try blue cheese cheesecake. To be fair, it didn’t sound very appealing at first.

But believe us when we say: this is the most incredible blue cheese cheesecake you’ll ever have — if not the best cheesecake, period. It’s a little pricey, but so, so worth it… whether you love cheesecake as much as we do or not.

Jon Cake quickly became one of those places we were genuinely excited to try — and it did not disappoint. Known for their incredible cheesecakes, especially the blue cheese one, it was so delicious that it didn’t even make it into our photos. Sometimes the best bites are the ones you’re too busy enjoying to document.

It was rich, surprising, and unforgettable — the kind of treat that stays with you long after you’ve left the city and keeps calling you back in memory.

Chocolate Amatller

Another place we absolutely have to mention when talking about food and drinks is Chocolate Amatller. Brutally honest — it’s some of the best chocolate we’ve ever had. Rich, thick, and perfectly sweet, every bite felt intentional and indulgent without being overwhelming.

What made it even better was that they guide you toward the perfect combinations, turning something simple into a full experience — like enjoying it alongside two pieces of warm, buttered toast, lightly salted, on the side. It wasn’t just chocolate; it was a moment we slowed down for and truly savored.

El Corte Inglés

El Corte Inglés is a department store located in Plaça de Catalunya, and on the top floor you’ll find La Rotonda, the store’s restaurant and café.

We know how it sounds — who really wants to eat at a store restaurant? But here’s the deal: this place offers an incomparable view of the city, almost a full 360-degree panorama.

You can enjoy a meal, grab a coffee, get some work done, and take in an incredible view — all for a reasonable price. You could honestly spend the entire day up here if you wanted.

Barcelona welcomed us without expectations and gave us exactly what we didn’t know we needed — beauty in the everyday, moments of stillness between busy streets, and places that invited us to slow down and look a little closer. From wandering markets and tree-lined avenues to standing quietly inside spaces that felt deeply meaningful, this city left an impression that stayed with us long after we left. Barcelona reminded us that some of the most memorable trips aren’t the ones we plan down to the detail, but the ones we allow to unfold naturally — one walk, one conversation, one unexpected moment at a time.

Day Trips From Barcelona

If you find yourself with an extra day (or two) in Barcelona, stepping just beyond the city can completely change the way you experience the region. Some of our most memorable moments happened on spontaneous day trips along the coast — charming seaside towns, medieval streets, crystal-clear water, and slower rhythms that felt worlds away from the city. We visited both Sitges and Tossa de Mar, and each offered something uniquely special. If you’re curious to explore further, we’ve put together a full guide to our favorite day trips from Barcelona.

Google maps with all the places mentioned in this blog post

You didn’t come this far to stop