While studying in Madrid, I visited Barcelona one weekend in February with friends and another weekend in April with my family, so I have collected up a list of my favorite spots! Barcelona has a fun energy, and is definitely more laid back than Madrid. I love being by the beach and everything Gaudi!!!

To do and see—

Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Gaudi houses- all can get tix online in advance!

Vintage shops- Le Swing, Madame Melon

Moco Museum- a must if you like contemporary art! Basquiat, Banksy, KAWS, Damien Hirst, Kusama, Murakami, Warhol, and more

Barceloneta Beach

Gothic Quarter

Parque de la Cuitadella

La Rambla

Cathedral

to eat—

Casa Lolea- I love this restaurant I went on both trips! They make all the sangria in-house, and supply to many of the surrounding restaurants. Must order the truffle risotto, patatas bravas, and pesto burrata salad.

Casa Rafols- delicious tapas with a speakeasy in the downstairs

Mar I Terra- Mediterranean/tapas

Sensi Tapas- didn’t try but looks amazing

Bo de B- famous sandwiches SO GOOD, get in line right before 12 and it’s cash only. We got the falafel and chicken both with all the toppings and sauces, so cheap and big, can eat there or bring by beach

La Boqueria- famous big market, great to walk around and look/snack/lunch

Gocce di Latte- AMAZING artisanal gelato, best I’ve had in Spain. Everything housemade and the flavor options are so interesting, went 2x in 24 hours!

La Papa Cafe- brunch spot very LA menu, good iced matcha and breakfast toasts etc

Syra Cafe- great for on-the-go, pain au chocolate also did not disappoint

Demasie- specialty cinnamon rolls