What to Do in Barcelona in 4 Days
Introduction
If you are going to Barcelona for your vacation, then by all means, prepare yourself for quite an amazing experience! This exceptional city is colourful to the highest standard with various aspects that include the historical, architectural, gastronomic, as well as the nightlife. This can be very tasking due to the numerous events and things that one would like to enjoy during the event. In this guide, we will show you how to spend four days in Barcelona without missing significant sights and other tourist attractions that are left out in most travel recommendations.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center
On the first day of your Barcelona visit you should go to the historic district of the city which is called the Gothic Quarter. This is somewhat a maze of the buildings with narrow streets, beautiful squares, and excellent medieval buildings.
1. Visit La Sagrada Familia
Every travel and tourism guide for Barcelona would include this temple as a must-see site, and with proper reason. Constructed by the most well-known architect the world over Antoni Gaudí it has been arising for more than hundred years. It is also worth to take a guided tour with the aim to make the most of the magnificent stained glass windows and carvings.
2. Stroll Along Las Ramblas
Stroll down Las Ramblas while it is the number one pedestrian street in Barcelona where you can also find the famous Las Ramblas. As this street is filled with cafes, shops, and street performers it is ideal for that purpose. It will also be useful to go to the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, a busy food market where it is possible to try various dishes.
3. Explore the Gothic Quarter
Stroll around the Gothic Quarter and be captivated by the spirit of the medieval age of this part of the city. Explore one of the most iconic buildings of the city – Barcelona Cathedral, walk the area of Plaça Sant Felip Neri, and marvel at the building of Palau de la Generalitat.
Day 2: Gaudí’s Barcelona
Talking about architecture, it is necessary to note that many buildings of Barcelona were designed by the world-known Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. On the second day, I recommend you to pay homage to the world of Gaudí and get to know more about his masterpieces.
1. Park Güell
A very good suggestion for the beginning of the tour is Park Güell, the area that is now recognized as World Heritage site by UNESCO and one of the best examples of Gaudí’s works. This park showcases the splendid view of the city and also has various mosaic structures as well as fanciful architecture and structures of organic forms. The activity may only allow a limited number of entries; therefore, it is advisable to book the tickets beforehand.
2. Casa Batlló
Then, go to the unique building that is located on Passeig de Gràcia Casa Batlló, also known as Casa Amatller. This church is another work of Gaudí which is very famous for its wave-like exterior and colorful tiles. So step into this site to have a feel of it and appreciate the efforts in its making.
3. Casa Milà (La Pedrera)
Casa Milà, most popularly referred to as La Pedrera, should complete your Gaudí tour. This architectural structure designed as one of the outstanding examples of the modernist style features wavy forms, the shape of the roof in the form of chimneys and a courtyard. These can be done by visiting the sections of the museum and the further parts of the museum exhibitions where visitors can extend the knowledge about the life and work of Gaudí.
Day 3: Beaches and Montjuïc
Barcelona boasts beautiful coastlines of beaches as well as marvellous areas of parks. For your third day’s activity, you can opt to spend your time at the water’s edge of the sea or visit Montjuïc, a hill on the Maresme coast.
1. Barceloneta Beach
There is no doubt that the place worth to visit is Barceloneta Beach, which is one of the most famous beaches in the city. Sunbathe, swim in the Ionian Sea, or dine on a beach using fresh seafood and dish up a mountain of Spanish paella. The beach is also edged with nice restaurants and bars where one can grab a casual lunch.
2. Montjuïc Castle
Make sure to take a relaxing walk up to Montjuïc and visit the Montjuïc Castle which is located there. This 17th-century fortress will let you enjoy the scenic view of the city and the sea. Enter the halls of the castle and read about its history in the exhibitions placed there. Another excellent attraction can be witnessed in the evening, the Magic Fountain of light is water and music show.
3. Explore Park Güell
In the afternoon, return to the Park Güell to get an understanding of the attractiveness of its gardens and trails. Spend your time to learn and observe how Gaudí was able to perfect the combination of nature and designs. It is also important to visit the great dragon fountain which is among the popular enshrinement of the park.
Day 4: Museums and Local Cuisine
Your last day in Barcelona will be as informative as it can be largely spent discovering the famous museums in the city accompanied by delicious food and wines.
1. Picasso Museum
Your first visit should be to Picasso Museum situated in the district of El Born, famous for being an old bohemian quarter. This gallery contains many of Picasso’s pieces meaning that one is able to follow the changes in his work over the years. However, do not rush through the pieces as there is beauty to be admired in each one of them.
2. Gothic Quarter
Taking this guide back to the Gothic Quarter and get to know more details. There are several interesting museums in Barcelona, one of which is the Museum of the History of Barcelona, or in Catalan MUHBA. Take a tour into the underground Roman Barcelona at the Barcelona City History Museum and learn more about the long past of the city.
3. Try Local Cuisine
As the curtain draws to a close, it is time to go to an authentic fish restaurant and taste thesumptuous meals the city offers. Try going to a regular tapas bar and order some of the tapas such as the patatas bravas, the Jamón ibérico and croquetas. Finish it with a glass of sangria or any local beer that you prefer to drink. Do not forget to have a dessert on that – it can be crema catalana or churros con chocolette.
Conclusion
Barcelona is an astonishing city with the best things that one can only imagine: history, culture, architecture, sea and sun, tasts. Here are some details of what the group would be able to see and do in the four days that have been set aside for the tour of Barcelona. Remember to find the tempo and regulate your working tempo by taking breaks when possible and to enjoy the atmosphere of this incredible city. ¡Disfruta tu viaje (Enjoy your trip)!
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