Barcelona

Barcelona – excellent 3rd visit

At last a good visit to Barcelona

After three failed attempts to visit to Barcelona I had to plan an express trip to do it.

Barcelona is a large and beautiful city, at any time of the year full of tourists who not only swarm the best-known places, but also put permanent pressure on demand, inflating prices.

This is the first notable note – the high price of all visits, and the fact that in almost all of them it is essential to book entry in advance, under penalty of not getting in or spending hours in huge queues to buy tickets. The difficulty is predicting the day and time of each visit, as everything has a scheduled time.

I bought everything in advance on the GetYourGuide website, which was very well organized and functional without a big difference in prices.

Another important note is the dispersion of the attractions, recommending planning the visit in blocks, connecting them using good public transport. The Hola Barcelona card is very practical and allows you to install an extremely useful application.

Ciutadella Area

​Triumphal Arch

We started at the Arc de Triomphe, an imposing building from 1888 to enter the Ciutadella park, site of the Universal Exhibition.

The triumphal arch is 30 meters high and only serves decorative objectives.

After the fair it was moved to the actual location.

The visit continued through the well-kept park, which features an artistic lake, a precious image for the crowd of photographers who permanently surround it.

Ciutadella Park

Parc de la Ciutadella is a historic and expansive park established in the late 19th century and offering a variety of attractions. The park features a large lake, perfect for boating, and the impressive Cascada Monumental, a grand fountain designed by Josep Fontserè with contributions from a young Antoni Gaudí. Visitors can also explore the Barcelona Zoo, the Catalan Parliament building, and several museums within the park.

Near the main lake, there’s another one, more discreet but more playful.

Among the buildings built for the fair, remains the exotic original “Castelo dos 3 Dragões”, closed to the public. Greenhouses and statues are scattered throughout the park, which ends with the Zoo, which we didn’t visit.

Castle of the 3 dragons

The Castle of the Three Dragons is a modernist building designed by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner and constructed between 1887 and 1888 for the 1888 Universal Exposition. Originally intended as a café-restaurant, it seems to be useless today, just a beautiful building of Catalan Modernism.

Parliament palace

Still inside the park is the beautiful building of the Parliament of Catalonia. It is older than the surrounding constructions, coming from the 18th century.

Pergola de la transexual Sonia

Looking like a band stand, the Pergola de la Transsexual Sónia, also located in Parc de la Ciutadella, is a memorial dedicated to Sonia Rescalvo Zafra. Sonia was a transgender woman murdered by neo-Nazis in 1991. This pergola, formerly known as the Glorieta dels Músics, was renamed in her honor in 2013.

Monument to EXPO 1888

Located at the entrance to the park, a large and strange statue designed by Josep Llimona celebrates EXPO 1888, which changed the city.

South bus station

Still in the Arc de Triomphe area, more due to its size than its monumentality, the southern bus station stands out as an important transport hub.

Riverfront

Rambla del Mar

Rambla del Mar is a picturesque wooden walkway connecting the end of La Rambla with the Moll d’Espanya. Opened in 1994, this floating bridge extends over the water, leading to the Maremagnum shopping complex and the Barcelona Aquarium.

Plaza Colon

Located at the end of La Rambla, near the Port Vell, the square is famous for the towering Columbus Monument, which was erected in 1888.

Alfandega

Close to the square, the Alfandega Building, built in the early 20th century, shows a beautiful blending of neoclassical and modernist architectural styles. 

Duc de Medinaceli square

Continuing to stroll along the seafront, on the way to the Gothic Quarter, we come to the small but very beautiful square of the Duque de Medinaceli.

Mercè

Only a few meters ahead, we arrive at Mercè Square. It is named after the Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy (Basílica de la Mercè), which stands prominently in the square. The basilica, built in the Baroque style, is dedicated to the patron saint of Barcelona, La Mercè. 

Post Office

My walk along the seaside ended in front of the Central Post Office, a notable example of Catalan Modernism and Noucentism architecture. Designed by Josep Goday i Casals and Jaume Torres i Grau, it was completed in 1927.

Contrasting with its classical image, looking across the avenue we see the big statue of El Cap de Barcelona, built to celebrate the Olympic Games of 1992.

Santa Maria del Mar

Before turning to Barrio Gótico, a small detour to Santa Maria del Mar. Located in Ribera district, it is a stunning example of Catalan Gothic architecture. Constructed between 1329 and 1383, this basilica is renowned for its harmonious and elegant design (closed, while I was there).

Sagrada Familia area

Sagrada Familia – the best of best of Barcelona

Under construction for almost 160 years, what is considered Gaudi’s masterpiece stands out clearly in the noblest area of Barcelona.
With plans to complete the structure on the centenary of the architect’s death, in 2026, the expensive ticket paid by the millions of visitors is financing the work.

In 1976 I only had a quick external look. In 2023 we joined the thousands of the daily visitors, and entered. If you want to see the details, even the external ones, it is the only solution.

Entering the church, is a fabulous experience, A kaleidoscope of lights, respects and enhances the tradition of stained glasses, but everything is different and new.

Santa Creu i Sant Pau complex

A few hundred meters from the church you may visit this modernist complex, a fabulous project of Lluis Domenech i Montaner. Our time was short, and we only could see it from outside.

Gloriès tower

Also at short distance but in a different direction, in Diagonal Avenue, there´s a famous tower, whose more distinctive detail is the illumination

We may see it when approaching the Sagrada Família, but to see the lights, we needed to make an express trip.

Not difficult, because there’s a metro station nearby, so, with a Hola Barcelona card we just had to select the line, exit, enjoy the view, make a couple of pictures and return to Ramblas, where life goes on at night and we were installed.

Ramblas area

Plaza Catalunya

Plaça de Catalunya serves as a major hub where the old city meets the modern Eixample district. The square is surrounded by important streets like Passeig de Gràcia, La Rambla, and Portal de l’Àngel. Notable for its fountains, statues, and flocks of pigeons, Plaça de Catalunya is a popular gathering spot always full of tourists.

Rambla

La Rambla is one of Barcelona’s most famous streets, stretching 1.2 kilometers from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell. This tree-lined pedestrian boulevard is a bustling hub of activity, filled with street performers, cafes, and shops. It divides the Gothic Quarter and El Raval, two of the city’s historic neighborhoods.

Ramblas by night

Although with different programs, the Rambla maintains the same movement at night as it does during the day, with tourists competing in every bar, cafe and centimeter of the central promenade. It is clear that, from 11 pm onwards, people are reduced and risks increase.

Bethlehem church

The Church of Bethlehem is a Baroque Catholic church located on La Rambla. Constructed between 1680 and 1729, it originally served as a Jesuit church until their expulsion in 1767.

La Boqueria

La Boqueria, located by our hotel, and announced as one of the city’s highlights, should be our first visit. Well, several hundreds of heads made us skip it, reserving for the afternoon. It dates back to the 13th century, with more than 300 stalls and the afternoon visit was calm and pleasant.

Plaça Boqueria

I passed by this discreet square so many times that I created some intimacy with it. It was our entrance to the rambla and the Gothic Quarter, and, although not stunning, it is really pleasant.

Teatro Liceo

The Gran Teatre del Liceu is a historic opera house also located on La Rambla. Established in 1847, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious opera houses in Europe.

Pitarra statue

Almost facing the theater, the Pitarra Statue inaugurated in 1906 celebrates. Frederic Soler, better known by his pen name Serafí Pitarra. He was a prominent Catalan playwright and poet.

Erotic museum

Still on the Rambla we find the Erotic Museum. We didn’t go in, but I had fun with ChapGPT who modestly refused to give me information.

Barrio Gótico

Palau de la Musica Catalana

The Palau de la Música Catalana is a stunning concert hall in Barcelona, designed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner and completed in 1908. This architectural gem is a prime example of Catalan modernism and is fairly recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. 

Cathedral

The old cathedral is a magnificent Gothic structure located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. Construction began in the 13th century and continued into the 15th century, with the neo-Gothic façade added in the 19th century. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Eulalia, a co-patron saint of Barcelona, whose remains are housed in the crypt. 

Video in Youtube

San Jaume

Plaça de Sant Jaume has been the city’s political center since Roman times, where the ancient forum once stood. Today, the square is flanked by two significant buildings: the Palau de la Generalitat, the seat of the Catalan government, and the city hall.

Plaza Real

Plaça Real was completed in the mid-19th century, with elegant arcades, palm trees, and central fountain. The lampposts in the square were designed by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí.

Pont de Bisbe

The famous Pont del Bisbe, or Bishop’s Bridge, is a neo-Gothic bridge constructed in 1928 for the Barcelona International Exposition.

Plaza del Rey

Plaça del Rei (not to be confused with Plaza real), seems to be much older, surrounded by medieval buildings. Key structures include the Saló del Tinell, a grand hall used for royal ceremonies, and the Capella Reial de Santa Àgata, a Gothic chapel. The square also features the Palau del Lloctinent and the Mirador del Rei Martí, a watchtower.

Palau del Lloctinent

The Palau del Lloctinent was constructed between 1549 and 1557, as the residence for the Spanish viceroy of Catalonia. The palace is an excellent example of Renaissance architecture, featuring a beautiful courtyard and a grand staircase. 

Monument to the Martyrs of Independence

The Monument to the Martyrs of Independence, inaugurated in 1929, commemorates the eight individuals executed after a failed attempt to expel French troops during the Peninsular War.

El Raval

Palau Guell

Entering Raval from the Rambla, we find Palau Guell. Palau Güell is a magnificent mansion, designed by Gaudí and constructed between 1886 and 1888. to the industrialist Eusebi Güell. It is an early work of Gaudí, blending Gothic and Art Nouveau elements. 

San Agusti

A few meters ahead, the Church of Sant Agustí, was built in the 14th century, blending Gothic and Baroque styles. Its façade, one of the few remaining Baroque examples in Barcelona, features intricate carvings and statues. Despite the still visible damages of Civil War, it has been restored and continues to serve as a place of worship.

Holy Cross hospital

The old Hospital de la Santa Creu is a significant example of Catalan Gothic architecture. Founded in 1401, it served as the city’s main hospital for centuries. The complex includes several historic buildings and today it houses the Biblioteca de Catalunya, the Royal Academy of Medicine, and other cultural institutions. 

Rubiol and Lluch gardens

The hospital’s courtyard is a peaceful oasis, featuring a central fountain and lush greenery. The Jardins de Rubió i Lluch are nestled within the courtyard of the hospital.

Rambla of Raval

Raval also has its rambla, equally wide and well designed, but different in that it has less monumentality and 50,000 fewer tourists per day.

Gato Botero

The most notable feature in Rambla de Raval is the large sculpture of a cat in bronze by the Colombian artist Fernando Botero, installed in 1987.

Gracià area

Passeig de Gràcia is one of Barcelona’s most iconic and elegant avenues, stretching from Plaça de Catalunya to Carrer Gran de Gràcia. Known for its upscale shopping, the street is lined with luxury boutiques, high-end fashion stores, and renowned brands. It is also famous for its architectural landmarks, including several masterpieces by Antoni Gaudí and other.

Battló house

One of these gems, this building was originally constructed in 1877 and later remodeled by Gaudí in 1904. Casa Batlló is known for its unique, organic architecture, featuring flowing lines, colorful mosaics, and a roof that resembles the back of a dragon. The façade is adorned with intricate details, including bone-like columns and stained glass windows. Inside, the design continues with a central light well and innovative use of space and light. Casa Batlló is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit landmark in Barcelona, demanding reserve.

Bonet and Amatller houses

All the block of casa Batllo is famous, under the name of “Block of Discord. All the houses are wonderful, But I appreciated especially two of them:

Casa Bonet was originally built in 1887, and remodeled in 1915 by architect Marcel·lí Coquillat in an eclectic Neo-Baroque style.

Casa Amatller was designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, in 1900, combining Gothic and Flemish styles and featuring a unique stepped gable roof.

Fuster house

Located at the top of Passeig de Gràcia and designed by the renowned architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, Casa Fuster was completed in 1908, and it houses today a hotel.

Milà house

Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, is another top modernist building in Barcelona designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. Constructed between 1906 and 1912,the building is famous for its undulating stone façade and wrought-iron balconies, which give it a unique, organic appearance. Inside, Casa Milà features innovative architectural elements, such as a self-supporting stone structure and a free-plan floor. Casa Milà is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with several visiting programs, included to the roof.

Comalat house

Designed by architect Salvador Valeri i Pupurull and completed between 1906 and 1911, the building is heavily influenced by Antoni Gaudí’s organic forms. Casa Comalat features two distinct façades: the main façade on Avinguda Diagonal is made of stone with elegant, monochrome decorations, while the rear façade on Carrer de Còrsega is more colorful, adorned with polychrome ceramics and green blinds.

Coliseum

The Coliseum is a historic theatre and cinema opened in 1923, and one of the largest film theatres in the city. The building was inspired by the French Beaux-Arts movement and the Paris Opera.

Plaza de España and Montjuic area

Montjuïc, is a prominent hill in Barcelona, rising 173 meters above sea level. It is known for its cultural and recreational attractions, enriched by several beautiful adding to the exposition of 1929.

Plaza Espanya

Plaça d’Espanya is one of the city’s most significant squares, constructed for the 1929 International Exposition. The square features the iconic Venetian Towers, which lead to the Magic Fountain and the National Palace. The central fountain is a notable attraction, especially when illuminated at night.

Pueblo Español

Pueblo Espanyol is an open-air architectural museum, built for the 1929 International Exposition. It features 117 full-scale buildings representing various regions, including Andalusian, Catalan, and Galician architecture.

Montjuic palace

The Montjuïc Palace is a grand building constructed also for the 1929 International Exposition, blending Spanish Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. Since 1934, it houses the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC).

Fountain

The Magic Fountain is a spectacular display facing the palace and also built for the 1929 International Exposition. The fountain is renowned for its impressive light and music shows, which combine water, color, and sound to create a mesmerizing experience, but we were unlucky – it was under maintenance when we were there. 

Parc Miró

Parc de Joan Miró, near palza de Espanya, is a green spaceo riginally the site of a municipal slaughterhouse. It was transformed into a park in the early 1980s, and got the name of the famous Catalan artist Joan Miró displaying his striking sculpture, Woman and Bird, which stands 22 meters tall. 

Ouskirts of town

Guell park

Park Güell, designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, is a unique public park originally intended as a residential project, it was transformed into a public park in 1926. The park showcases Gaudí’s distinctive style, blending natural forms with intricate mosaics and organic architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the city’s most popular attractions, but when we reached it, we were tired, failed the main door, and had to cross all the wild and boring part of the park.

Tibidabo

Even further from the center and with more complex access, Tibidabo was in our plans, however Fernanda got sick in the last day, and we had to skip it. We had a distant look and reserved it for the next visit.

Personal Memories

Promotional tricks

One of the city’s highlights is Ocaña, a restaurant in Praça Real, promoted as a meeting point for drag queens. We had to go to dinner there one day, we went, we had fun with the friendly extras, and we ate a reasonable dinner, a little more expensive than the competition, to finance the show.

​Shopping Malls

If you tell Fernanda I wrote this I’m a dead man. I’ve been in Barcelona more than 30 years ago, in a rush to proceed to France and Germany.

I got an excellent idea of the town, but, for one reason or another, I never went back – even when we went to Andorra, and Salou, visiting Montserrat, we skipped Barcelona.

Last year I decided It was time, and convinced Fernanda to spend a week in the beach (near Barcelona…), after returning from Croatia.​

It just happened that we made some Spanish friends in Croatia, and, after 2 days in Gava (as previously booked) we decided to move to Roses to meet them.

​That gave me only 3 hours to visit the city. Now the secret: I spent 5 of those 3 hours… standing and waiting at the door of El Corte Inglês!