Barcelona has an atmospheric medieval quarter, the Barri Gòtic, with an almost magical old-world ambience, but it’s even more famous for its Modernist architecture. Antoni Gaudí left an enduring mark on Barcelona together with his avant-garde Surrealist buildings; several are UNESCO listed.
Gothic Quarter
At the middle of the Gothic Quarter on the Monte Tabor is that the Catedral de la Santa Cruz y Santa Eulalia (Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia). This medieval cathedral may be a masterpiece of Gothic with an ornately sculpted facade and a powerful gilded altarpiece. Surprising many visitors, the cathedral’s cloister and garden shelter 13 live geese that symbolize the martyrdom of Saint Eulalia.
Tourists will enjoy wandering the maze of narrow cobblestone streets and atmospheric alleyways, and stopping to get the neighborhood’s quaint boutiques and restaurants. By getting lost here, visitors become immersed within the magical ambience of a traffic-free medieval world.
La Pedrera
Well designed to welcome tourists, Casa Milà has boutiques and a trendy restaurant on the building’s mezzanine, Cafè de la Pedrera, which offers gourmet meals for lunch and dinner. This restaurant also serves breakfast and tapas.
Barcelona’s Social Hub
During the day, many locals are found here doing their everyday shopping at the Mercat de la Boqueria and in the dark , groups of friends and families take their evening paseo (stroll) on La Rambla to enjoy the fresh air and lively ambience. On some days, onlookers could be treated to measure music, a mime show, or other impromptu street performances.
The Magic Fountain of Montjuic
The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc delights all ages with its choreographed light and fountain shows that are set to music. The shows happen Thursday through Sunday during the summer and Friday and Saturday within the off-season. The evening shows last for a couple of hours, with music sessions every half hour.
La Barceloneta
Adjacent to the cruise port, the neighborhood of los angeles Barceloneta borders the long, wide Sant Sebastià Beach, where locals attend sunbathe, surf, and socialize within the many seafood restaurants and tapas venues that overlook the ocean . an extended promenade lined with palm trees connects the beach area to marinas crammed with yachts.