Start exploring Barcelona by walking through the winding streets of the Gothic Quarter, one of the city's most charming neighborhoods. Visit the Barcelona Cathedral, the impressive Gothic church located in the heart of the neighborhood, and admire the beautiful architecture. Take a break at Café de l'Opera, a historic coffeehouse where Picasso used to spend his mornings. In the afternoon, visit the Picasso Museum, which houses an extensive collection of the artist's works.
No visit to Barcelona is complete without a visit to the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudi. Start with a visit to the jaw-dropping Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece that has been under construction for over a century. Then visit Park Guell, an enchanting garden featuring whimsical structures and intricate mosaics. In the evening, enjoy tapas and drinks at Bodega La Palma, a cozy and traditional tapas restaurant.
After two busy days, take a break and head to Barceloneta Beach, located just minutes away from the city center. Soak up the sun, take a dip in the Mediterranean, and stroll along the promenade. For lunch, head to La Cova Fumada, a tiny and legendary restaurant in Barceloneta that offers some of the best seafood in the city. In the evening, catch the sunset at W Barcelona, a stunning hotel located on the beachfront with panoramic views of the city.
For your last day in Barcelona, take a day trip to the spiritual and cultural center of Montserrat, a spectacular mountain located just outside the city. Visit the famous monastery and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, head to Poble Espanyol, an open-air museum that showcases the art, architecture, and culture of Spain. Finish off your trip with a farewell dinner at Botafumeiro, one of the most popular and elegant seafood restaurants in the city.
For art lovers, consider adding a visit to the Joan Miro Foundation, a museum dedicated to the works of the famous Spanish artist. For foodies, try some traditional Catalan dishes like pa amb tomaquet (bread with tomato and olive oil) or crema catalana (similar to creme brulee). If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to Costa Brava, a stunning coastal region north of Barcelona.