Ahh. Barcelona. How I miss you so. If you’ve ever been to Barcelona, you’ll understand the beauty and warm feeling you get while staying there. There is something about Barcelona that keeps me wanting more. So, in order to persuade you, the reader, I’ve compiled a list of recommendations on what to do in Barcelona.
Here we go:
1. Spain has naptime (siestas)!
Who doesn’t like nap time during the weekday after lunch?? Although, in modern times, siestas have become less and less popular with most people just skipping it entirely. It’s sad considering college students live off of naps, but that’s the adult world for ya!
2. The FOOD!
I’ve been to Barcelona in the summer of 2012 and I must say the food was delicious. I live for tapas. Tapas are almost like appetizers you get to share since it comes in small portions. Plus they’re extremely cheap and EVERYWHERE! Tapas for life. Besides tapas, there is plenty of good seafood! Seafood is everywhere in Barcelona and it makes sense. Barcelona is a huge port city and being right next to the Mediterranean, access to seafood is easy. Check out this list of places to eat! I dream of the food from Spain…
3. The Beaches
The beaches in Barcelona are to die for. Warm water, nice sand, great views, beautiful people, with good food, and good drinks! C’mon, doesn’t that sound like paradise? Then if you’re hungry, tired or want to go shopping, just take a nice walk through the alleys of Barcelona!
4. Shopping
The wonderful thing about Barcelona was the narrow alleyways full of shops. From antique to modern, art to stationary, whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find. And if the alleyways aren’t your thing, head to the main streets of La Rambla and you’ll find plenty of goodies there. La Rambla is a huge tourist attraction and if you go, you’ll know why. Looking for something else? Check out this list of places to shop.
5. The Attractions
When I say attractions I don’t mean Disneyland, instead, I mean experiences, things to do, things to see, etc. There was a man named Gaudi and his influence over Barcelona can be seen throughout the streets and the skyline. Park Guell, La Sagrada Familia, and La Pedrera are just a few building Gaudi has created in Barcelona. I definitely recommend La Sagrada Familia because that building is truly breathtaking and the fact that it’s taken more than 100 years to finish is remarkable. A MUST DO! If it’s Gaudi overload, there are plenty of beautiful museums spread throughout the city and some have spectacular views. I say it’s a must do if you want some fuego Instagram photos. #justsayin
6. GOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAL!
Like futbol? GOOD! FC Barcelona is the primary team and have some of the best players in the world. So don’t worry, each game will be an exciting one. Ticket prices vary, depending on the season, team, post season, etc. Just be prepared for some good times, shouting and the occasional drunk person strolling through.
7. Nightlife
The nightlife in Barcelona was crazy. There are people all over the world in the city who are there for work, leisure, students, international students and backpackers. For example, I found an Irish pub in the middle of a busy street and when I walked in I was surprised to the see the diversity. If you’re going to Barcelona, I would suggest going out at night! It’s a great time and everyone is out!
8. R&R
If you’re looking to getaway for the weekend or just want a relaxing day, it’s easy to get around and it’s easy to find a coffee shop to people watch. Barcelona is a beach city and you can travel along the coast to other towns or fly to Madrid for the weekend. Whatever you choose to relax and unwind, you will find it. Whether you find that one special coffee shop or a means of transportation to a neighboring town, you will find whatever you need in Barcelona. Just make sure you enjoy the journey!
9. Live music!
If you’re a fan of live music, there is plenty of good spots just for that! Personally, I haven’t been to any live music venues or hotspots and I regret doing so, but that doesn’t mean you should miss out! Finding live music isn’t hard, all you have to do is listen. But if you’re looking for a more specific genre, this list will be a good place to start.
Regardless of what you choose to do in Barcelona, it’s a wonderful city that has activities for anyone looking for an adventure. The activities I recommended were things I’ve done or wished I had done and are must do. Happy Siesta!
About Our Contributor:
Drew is Adelante HQ’s Fall 2017 Social Media & Marketing intern and is currently a Public Relations major at Cal State Long Beach. He has participated in a youth exchange program in Dakar, Senegal and an international basketball tournament in Japan. One of his many traveling goals is to step foot on every continent on this big blue planet, and yes, even Antarctica.
