Start your trip in the heart of Barcelona at the Gothic Quarter, also known as Barri Gotic. This charming neighborhood features winding streets, beautiful architecture, and historic buildings such as the Barcelona Cathedral and Placa Reial. Get lost in the maze of streets, take in the atmosphere of the cafes and shops, and stop at the Mercat de la Boqueria for some local food.
Today, experience two of Barcelona's most iconic landmarks. The first on the list is La Sagrada Familia designed by Gaudi, which is still under construction since 1882. Admire the impressive exterior and step inside to see the intricate details of its stained glass windows and spiral staircases. Afterward, head over to the whimsical Park Guell, featuring the works of Gaudi, muse to those walking by and the breathtaking view of the city from the hill's edge.
Begin your day by focusing on history and tradition by walking through some of the early works of the world-renowned artist Picasso at the Picasso Museum. The museum is housed in a historic building, providing a contrast to the displays of modern art found within. Continue your itinerary by heading to the Montserrat Monastery, nestled amidst the mountains outside Barcelona. This unique monastery is over 1,000 years old, and the views of the surrounding countryside are spectacular.
Public transportation in Barcelona is highly accessible with a comprehensive metro and bus system. A T-10 multi-person ticket can be purchased for €10.20 for ten trips, and single rides cost €2.40. Taxis can be hailed off the street or using apps such as Cabify or Uber, costing €1.33/km (day) or €1.56/km (night) with a minimum fare of €2.50. If you are flying in, Barcelona El Prat Airport is well-connected to the city center via the metro or taxi, costing €12-€15 and taking around 30 minutes.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to picturesque Sitges or indulging in some beach time at Barceloneta. For days with shorter daylight hours, you may want to plan some indoor activities such as visiting the stunning Palau de la Música Catalana or the traditionally furnished rooms at the National Art Museum of Catalonia. In addition, be aware of typical Spanish mealtimes, as many restaurants serve lunch from 1 pm to 3 pm and dinner from 8 pm to 10:30 pm.
Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) is the main airport, located around 10.2 km from the city center. It is a busy international airport and is served by various airlines such as Iberia, Ryanair, and Vueling. There are various transportation options to get to and from the airport, such as metro, bus, and taxi, all of which are easily accessible and relatively affordable.