Month: July 2022

If you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation, look no further than Barcelona. This vibrant city is home to a wealth of historical and cultural attractions, as well as plenty of opportunities for relaxation. With its stunning architecture, delicious food, and friendly people, Barcelona is the perfect destination for your next vacation.

To help you make the most of your time in Barcelona, we’ve put together this 7-day itinerary. This comprehensive guide covers all the must-see sights and experiences, from exploring Gaudi’s masterpieces to indulging in a traditional Catalan lunch.

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

You will be flying into Barcelona’s El Prat Airport (BCN), which is located about 12km from the city center. The best way to get to your hotel is by taxi, which will cost about €30. If you’re on a budget, you can also take the bus or train into the city.

Once you’ve settled into your hotel, take some time to explore the neighborhood and get orientated. Barcelona is a large city, but most of the main attractions are located in the center. The best way to get around is by foot or using the city’s efficient metro system.

Hotel: Mercer Hotel Barcelona

The Mercer Hotel Barcelona is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the city’s heart. This elegant property features a rooftop terrace with stunning city views, a restaurant serving Catalan cuisine, and a spa with an indoor pool.

Dinner: La Flauta

La Flauta is one of Barcelona’s most popular tapas restaurants. Located in the city center, this cozy spot is perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal with friends. The menu features a wide variety of traditional Spanish dishes, all of which are made with fresh, local ingredients.

Day 2: Exploring the City

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before heading out to explore Barcelona. Your first stop should be the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, one of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous works. This unfinished Catholic church is one of the most iconic buildings in Barcelona and a must-see for any visitor.

Next, make your way to Park Guell, another of Gaudi’s masterpieces. This public park is located on a hilltop in the city center and offers stunning views of the city below. The park is also home to several interesting sculptures and architectural features designed by Gaudi himself.

After spending some time at Park Guell, take a stroll through the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona’s historic old town. This charming neighborhood is filled with narrow streets, medieval buildings, and a lively atmosphere. Be sure to stop by the Cathedral of Barcelona, the city’s most important religious site.

For lunch, head to Barceloneta, Barcelona’s beachfront district. This vibrant neighborhood is home to many excellent seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh fish and paella overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration of Barcelona with a visit to Montjuic Castle. This former military fortress is now a museum dedicated to the history of Catalonia. The castle offers stunning views of the city below and is the perfect place to watch the sunset over Barcelona.

After a long day of sightseeing, unwind with a glass of wine and some tapas at one of Barcelona’s many bars.

Lunch: Can Maño

Can Maño is a seafood restaurant located in Barceloneta. This cozy spot offers a menu of traditional Catalan dishes, all of which are made with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant has a charming outdoor terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, making it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Dinner: Bodega Sepúlveda

Bodega Sepúlveda is a traditional Spanish wine bar located in the Gothic Quarter. This atmospheric spot is perfect for enjoying a glass of wine and some tapas with friends. The menu features a wide variety of traditional Spanish dishes, all of which are made with fresh, local ingredients.

Day 3: Day Trip to Girona

Spend your third day in Barcelona with a visit to the nearby city of Girona. This charming medieval town is located about an hour north of Barcelona and makes for a perfect day trip.

Start your day with a walk around the Old Town, exploring the narrow streets and historic buildings. Be sure to visit the Cathedral of Girona, one of the most important religious sites in Catalonia.

Next, head to the Jewish Quarter, where you can learn about the history of the city’s Jewish community. This vibrant neighborhood is filled with cafes, shops, and artists’ studios.

For lunch, enjoy some traditional Catalan cuisine at one of Girona’s many restaurants. After lunch, take a stroll through the Jardins de la Devesa, a large park located in the center of the city.

In the afternoon, visit the Museu d’Art de Girona, a museum dedicated to the history of Catalan art. The museum features various artifacts and works of art from the Middle Ages to the present day.

End your day with a walk along the banks of the Onyar River, admiring the views of the city before heading back to Barcelona.

Lunch: Cal Bolet

Cal Bolet is a restaurant located in the Jewish Quarter of Girona. This cozy spot offers a menu of traditional Catalan dishes, all of which are made with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant has a charming outdoor terrace overlooking the Onyar River, making it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Dinner: El Celler de Can Roca

El Celler de Can Roca is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in Girona. This spot is perfect for a special occasion, offering an inventive menu of modern Catalan cuisine. The restaurant has an elegant dining room with views of the city to enjoy a romantic dinner.

Day 4: Parks & Gardens

Spend your fourth day in Barcelona exploring the city’s many parks and gardens. Start your day with a walk through Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona’s largest park. This green oasis is home to a lake, a zoo, and various sculptures and monuments.

Next, head to the Botanical Garden, where you can see a variety of plant species from all over the world. After exploring the gardens, have lunch at one of the nearby cafes.

In the afternoon, visit Parc Güell, one of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous works. This colorful park is filled with unique buildings and sculptures. Be sure to walk to the top of the hill for stunning views of Barcelona.

End your day with a stroll through the Gracia neighborhood, admiring the charming streets and vibrant atmosphere.

Lunch: Café del Jardí

Café del Jardí is a cafe located in the Botanical Garden. The cafe is named for its location, nestled among the gardens. The menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The cafe also offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and pastries. The lunchtime rush can be a bit hectic, but the staff is always friendly and accommodating. Café del Jardí is a great place to enjoy a quick bite or a leisurely meal. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even spot a bird or two while you’re dining.

Dinner: Restaurante Els 4 Gats

Restaurante Els 4 Gats is a restaurant located in the Gracia neighborhood of Barcelona. This historic spot was once a favorite hangout of Pablo Picasso and other artists. The restaurant has a cozy, old-world atmosphere, with dark wood paneling and vintage furnishings. The menu features traditional Catalan dishes, such as paella and fideua, and Spanish classics like jamón ibérico and tortilla de patatas. The wine list includes both local and international options. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or a place to enjoy some good food and conversation, Restaurante Els 4 Gats is sure to please.

Day 5: Beach Day

Day five is spent relaxing at one of the city’s many beaches. Start your day with a swim in the Mediterranean Sea, then lounge on the beach and soak up the sun.

In the afternoon, enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the beachside cafes, then take a walk along the promenade. End your day with a sunset stroll along the beach before returning to your hotel.

Lunch: Can Paixanet

For a truly unique dining experience, head to Can Paixanet for lunch. This restaurant is located right on the beach, so you can enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea while you eat. The menu features traditional Spanish dishes with a modern twist, and there is something to suit everyone’s taste. Highlights include the fresh seafood paella, the succulent Iberian pork, and the mouth-watering Catalan cream dessert. With its incredible setting and delicious food, Can Paixanet is definitely worth a visit.

Dinner: La Plaja

La Plaja is the perfect place to enjoy a sunset meal in Barcelona. The restaurant is located on the promenade, so you can watch the sun dip into the sea while enjoying some of the best seafood in the city. The menu features a variety of traditional Catalan dishes, such as paella and fideua, and an extensive list of seafood.

The paella is cooked over an open fire, so it has a smoky flavor that pairs …