Going back to places I’ve been to and where I hold onto great memories is always good. Each trip is always unique and reflects a different moment of life. Therefore, even if the eyes look at places we have seen before, our perception is different. We traced other corners and have the privilege of reviewing those places that have remained in our memory. Returning to Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is always a pleasure! The Spanish city exudes art from every corner. It is cheerful, daring, eccentric and full of sunshine.
Walking along the Ramblas is often my starting point whether it’s going to Barceloneta or sighing with Gaudi’s masterpieces scattered around the city. I can’t resist the genius of Casa Batlò inspired by nature. Do you know that place that hypnotizes? The facade is surreal. And this time it was lit up in various colors, which made me sit and spend more than an hour staring open-mouthed. Still on Passeig de Gracia is another striking Gaudi building, Casa Milá. Imagine that at the time it was considered a work of terrible taste and today is a tremendous work of art. Its curvy contours are reminiscent of sand dunes, and the roof vents are wonderful giant sculptures. And the Sagrada Familia church? One of the most amazing religious temples in the world. The project is fantastic, all in organic forms and remains unfinished to this day. On the other hand, Park Güell is a little far from downtown, but it’s a must. Considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Other places I love in Barcelona are the Montjuic Fountains, the Palau de la Musica Catalana, the Barcelona Cathedral in the Gothic Quarter and the Picasso Museum.
For a good meal, head to the Mut Bar and don’t miss out on the scallops, traditional egg carpaccio and French toast called “torrija”. The Paco Meralgo tapas bar is my favorite in town. It is unpretentious and wonderful. Eat all the tapas you feel like. Don’t miss the tomato bread, croquettes and Iberian jamón. Two markets I love are La Boqueria and Santa Catarina. To enjoy the sunset, I recommend the rooftop La Dolce Vitae, of the classic Majestic hotel with a super view of the city. A cool place for brunch or lunch is Café Jaime Beriestain, with elegant décor and delicious dishes..
I recommend you stay in a well located hotel and you can explore a lot on foot. Some of my favorites are The One, Almanac and Mandarin Oriental Barcelona.
I wish you a very pink October.
XoXo and see you next week.
