As one of Europe’s most popular cities, it’s safe to say that Barcelona is high up on everyone’s list when it comes to travelling. From Gaudi delights to pristine beaches, there’s quite literally something for everyone in the Catalan city. To help you decide on where to visit first, we’ve put together this list with five places you should visit the next time you find yourself in la Ciudad Condal (the City of Counts).
1) Sagrada Familia
If it’s your first time in Barcelona then you should definitely visit Sagrada Familia. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Spain and is a Catholic basilica designed by legendary architect Antoni Gaudi.
Gaudi’s influence can be seen throughout the city, but it’s at Sagrada Familia where his style of Catalan Modernism is most recognizable. The basilica has been under construction for more than 100 years, and, even though it’s unfinished, Sagrada Familia still attracts over three million visitors per year.
2) Port Olimpic
Fully regenerated in 1992, when Barcelona held the Olympic Games, Port Olimpic adds a touch of modernity to a city that mostly features older buildings. Made of whale bronze, you can stroll around visiting the numerous shops, enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants and dip your toes in the water.
Port Olimpic adds another layer to what is already a diverse city with many attractions. There’s always a buzzing atmosphere here, and, for many, it’s a gateway to tons of the fantastic beaches in the city. There’s also a sailing centre if you fancy setting sail with a qualified instructor.
3) Bogatell Beach
Named after an old stream that ran from the uptown area of Vilapicina down the avenue of the same name, Bogatell Beach is one of the most popular in the city. Once home to local fishermen, this beach enjoyed an overhaul in the 1980s to become the place to catch some rays in the city.
Around thirty percent of visitors to the beach are tourists, or on a day trip, so much is it in demand. Interestingly, it has the oldest average age of beach-goers, with a median age of 38. Whether young or old, Bogatell is the place to soak up some sun.
4) Casa Batllo
Casa Batllo is another modernist marvel designed by Gaudi and was constructed in the 19th century for the Balto family, acting as their townhouse. Its prominent looks catch the eye, thanks to an unusual appearance with plenty of curves.
It also has a quasi reptile-like tile facade which has earned it the nickname Casa del Drac. Or, in English, House of the Dragon. Casa Batllo gets over one million visitors per year and, next to Sagrada Familia, is perhaps Gaudi’s most well-known building in Barcelona.
5) Park Guell
One of Barcelona’s most popular attractions, Park Guell is another Gaudi footprint in the city. Initially designed as a housing estate, it was donated to the local council when there was no investment. It was then transformed into the popular park it is today.
Park Guell is one of the largest green spaces in Barcelona, spanning more than 17 hectares. It still features tile works designed by Gaudi, with the dragon fountain being a particular point of interest and a great photo op for your Instagram account.
Your Barcelona adventure
Barcelona is a magical city, whether you’re staying for a few days or a few weeks. Using the Ferryscanner website you can find and book ferry tickets easily. There are loads of things to check off your itinerary, but you can’t go wrong by starting with one of the fantastic attractions on our list.