We recently returned from a wonderful trip to Barcelona, Spain. We loved everything about Barcelona — the food, the sights, the kind people, the architecture… Oh, and the cava! Definitely the cava for me. There is so much beauty at every turn in Barcelona, from the old-world feel of the narrow streets in the Gothic Quarter, to the colorful mosaic tiles of Parc Guell. Today I’m sharing some of the sights from this lovely city (you’ll see I have a thing for doors and balconies). Pour yourself a cup of coffee (or a cava!) and enjoy.
in the gothic quarter
The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic) is in the oldest part of the city, with narrow streets going every which way. It is home to the Cathedral of Barcelona, La Rambla, City Hall, and the Picasso Museum (located in the Aguilar Palace), among others. Our hotel was located in the Gothic Quarter, just two blocks from the Cathedral, and we enjoyed exploring the old city and walking to La Boqueria Market on La Rambla each morning for breakfast.
in eixample
In contrast to the Gothic Quarter, Eixample is known for its straight streets laid out in a grid. It is a residential area with luxury shopping on the Passeig de Gracia and architecturally-significant buildings, including Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, and Casa Batllo. Not to mention some tasty tapas restaurants! As a design lover, I soaked up the charming building features throughout Eixample.
appreciating gaudi
The work and influence of Antoni Gaudi (1852-1926) is all over Barcelona. Gaudi was an architect and designer who pioneered the Catalan Modernism style. The style draws inspiration from natural elements and geometrical forms. Gaudi was a religious man, and his passion project, the Sagrada Familia, is one of the most iconic structures in Europe. Photos cannot do it justice — it is truly awesome in person.
I hope you enjoyed these images of Barcelona! I loved putting this post together, as it allowed me to relive the trip and think about what inspired me. That said, this is in no way a complete insight into our experience. Let me know in the comments if you’d like me to write a post outlining where we stayed, ate, and played in Barcelona!