Spain has always held a special place on our travel bucket list. With its rich culture, stunning architecture, world-renowned cuisine, and laid-back Mediterranean charm, it seemed only fitting that we celebrate our 5-year anniversary in the heart of one of its most vibrant cities — Barcelona. What better way to get a first taste of Spain than with a romantic weekend break in a city that balances history, art, and modernity with effortless elegance?
Where to Stay
Barcelona is surprisingly compact, which makes it a dream for city explorers. The public transport system, particularly the metro, is efficient and well-connected. Most journeys to central Barcelona take just 10–15 minutes, and even if you’re staying on the outskirts, no metro ride is longer than 45 minutes. In other words, you don’t need to be in the exact center to be part of the action.
Top Central Areas to Stay
- Plaça Catalunya: This is Barcelona’s unofficial “city center” and a great starting point for any adventure. All major roads seem to lead here, and it serves as a hub for public transportation. From here, you can walk to many of the city’s main attractions or hop on a bus or metro to explore further afield.
- Las Ramblas: Buzzing with activity at all hours, Las Ramblas is the beating heart of Barcelona’s tourist scene. Street performers, flower stalls, markets, and restaurants line this bustling promenade. It’s energetic and lively, perfect for travelers who enjoy being in the middle of it all.
- Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): A stark contrast to the modern city, this neighborhood transports you back in time with its labyrinth of medieval alleyways, historic churches, and quiet squares. Many streets are pedestrian-only, making it a tranquil base to return to after a busy day of sightseeing.
- El Born: If you’re looking for something trendy yet steeped in culture, El Born is a fantastic choice. With boutique shops, hidden bars, and the stunning Santa Maria del Mar basilica, this area blends old-world charm with a contemporary edge.
- Eixample: This grid-style neighborhood is best known for housing some of Gaudí’s masterpieces, like Casa Batlló and La Pedrera. It’s quieter than the Gothic Quarter but still centrally located and filled with upscale hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
Getting Around
Barcelona makes it easy to get around. Whether you prefer the metro, a sightseeing bus, or private ride-hailing apps, the city is designed for convenience.
- Metro: With 12 lines connecting nearly every neighborhood, the metro is a fast and affordable way to travel. We used the Citymapper app to navigate the system with ease — the layout is intuitive, especially if you’re used to larger systems like London’s.
- Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Highly recommended for first-time visitors. This is not only a great way to get your bearings but also a practical mode of transportation between attractions. We bought the 2-day pass, which gave us plenty of flexibility to explore at our own pace.
- Cabify: In place of Uber, Spain uses Cabify, which works almost identically. It’s user-friendly, reliable, and generally cheaper than local taxis. We used it mostly for early-morning and late-night trips.
- Walking: Barcelona is a pedestrian-friendly city. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially if you’re staying in the city center. Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes — those cobbled streets can be tough on your feet!
Where to Eat
You could spend an entire trip to Barcelona doing nothing but eating, and it would still be a worthwhile experience. From rustic tapas bars to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city is a culinary wonderland.
- Tapas: You can’t visit Spain without indulging in tapas. Try dishes like patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, croquetas, and pimientos de padrón. Head to Ciudad Condal or Tapeo for an unforgettable tapas experience.
- Seafood Paella: For a special occasion, consider a seaside paella dinner. Can Majó in Barceloneta offer delicious, authentic paella with views of the beach?
- Local Bakeries: Don’t skip breakfast! Grab a flaky ensaimada or xuixo from a local bakery, along with a café con leche. Favorite near Passeig de Gràcia became our go-to spot for coffee and a light bite.
- Churros and Chocolate: A late-night snack of churros dipped in thick, rich chocolate is the perfect sweet end to a day of exploring. Granja Dulcinea is a historic cafe that’s been serving churros since 1941.
What to Do
Barcelona is packed with cultural, historical, and fun activities. Here are just a few highlights from our trip:
1. Explore the Gothic Quarter
This is where the spirit of old Barcelona comes alive. Spend hours wandering its narrow alleyways, discovering hidden plazas, ancient churches, and quirky shops. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a history lover’s dream.
2. Visit the Gothic Cathedral
The Cathedral of Barcelona, officially known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, is a Gothic masterpiece. Its spires reach toward the sky, and the interior is just as breathtaking. Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience.
3. Coffee at Faborit
Next to Casa Batlló, Faborit is not just a coffee shop, it’s a stylish urban oasis. Its natural juices, smoothies, and wide pastry selection make it ideal for a relaxed breakfast before a day of sightseeing.
4. Camp Nou Experience
This was a personal favorite — especially for Peter. The FC Barcelona Camp Nou tour takes you behind the scenes of one of the world’s most iconic football clubs. Even if you’re not a hardcore fan, it’s hard not to be impressed by the scale and energy of the stadium.
5. Enjoy Cocktails at a Beach Bar
Barcelona’s beachside chiringuitos (beach bars) are the perfect place to unwind. We sipped cocktails as the sun went down at Vai Moana, a Polynesian-inspired bar right on the sand. The sea breeze, relaxed music, and ocean views made it a highlight of our weekend.
6. Parc de la Ciutadella
Whether you’re into nature, photography, or just relaxing under the sun, this park is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Don’t miss the grand Cascada Monumental fountain — it’s the perfect backdrop for a romantic photo.
7. Sagrada Familia
It’s impossible to overstate how impressive this basilica is. Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia is unlike any other religious structure in the world — ornate, bold, and full of symbolism. We booked tickets in advance to avoid queues and opted for the audio guide to appreciate the details.
8. Take in the Views from Park Güell
Another Gaudí masterpiece, Park Güell offers panoramic views of the city and is filled with colorful mosaics, whimsical architecture, and peaceful gardens. It’s a bit of a walk uphill but worth every step.
9. Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
End your night with a dazzling display of music, light, and water at the Magic Fountain. Located near Plaça d’Espanya, the show runs several nights a week. Check the schedule in advance as it changes seasonally.
10. Stroll Passeig de Gràcia
This upscale avenue is not only home to high-end boutiques but also architectural gems. In addition to Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, you’ll find elegant façades, cozy cafés, and some of the city’s best people-watching.
Final Thoughts
Barcelona exceeded all our expectations. From its enchanting Gothic Quarter and architectural wonders to the incredible food and seaside charm, it was the perfect city for our anniversary getaway. What makes Barcelona truly special is its blend of old and new — a city where history and innovation walk hand in hand.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to uncover more hidden gems, Barcelona offers something unforgettable at every corner. We left feeling inspired, rejuvenated, and already planning our next visit.
If you enjoyed our Barcelona city guide, don’t miss our Guide to Greece for another romantic travel adventure filled with sunshine, culture, and unforgettable memories.
Hey Travel Babes. I’m Hayley a.k.a Ms Blissness – Adventurous dreamer and free spirit. I’m on a quest around the world with my husband, Peter. Join us on our journey for some travel inspiration and a lot of Love and Light xx. More about me…