travel blog, minus the bull$hit

Barcelona is an incredible city that offers a unique mix of art, culture, history, and beautiful beaches. Here are some reasons why this gorgeous city should be on your bucket list:

Architecture

This city is known for its unique architecture, which includes the famous works of Antoni Gaudi, such as the Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and Casa Batllo.

Yes, my trips to Barcelona were absolutely inspired by the Cheetah Girls #IYKYK

Culture

Home to many museums, including the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miro Foundation, which showcase the works of some of the most important artists of the 20th century.

You can also book a guided walking tour at prices starting from $20USD per person! Since European cities are much more walkable than American cities, I always aim to squeeze in a walking tour. I highly, HIGHLY recommend booking a walking tour during your trip if you are physically capable to do so. Easy way to get your steps in, and learn about the history directly from a local. I would suggest booking via one of these resources (also using my affiliate links):

• Viator
• Tripadvisor

For my Americans out there- tipping after a walking tour is not required, but it is greatly appreciated!

On the flip side, you can also find some free walking tours that are tip based which means pay your tour guide what you think they deserve.

My favorite part of Spanish culture: SIESTA. In other words, my favorite thing our colonizers left behind for us Filipinos. It’s pretty much an afternoon/midday nap more so appreciated during hotter climates to eat, rest, and escape the heat. The difference between “siesta” in the Philippines and in Spain, is that in the Philippines it is more of an optional thing/feeling whereas in Spain the shops will literally close and office workers will go home for that little break.

Food and Drink

A city famous for its delicious food and drink, including traditional Spanish dishes like paella and tapas (small plates), as well as the local specialty, vermouth. And their bread is literally so good??? Like for what reason?? I could genuinely live off of bread and butter in this country.

• Warning: locals seem to prefer having dinner at 8-9PM, which is the type I prefer to start doing my skincare and getting ready for bed when I’m at home. This is most likely because they have to incorporate that siesta nap hour into their days. And when they drink, they they drink.

My favorite alcoholic beverages:

• Clara – a lemon beer that is one part Spanish beer, one part lemon soda
• Tinto de Verano – translates to summer’s wine. It’s very similar to the more known sangria

Beaches

Located on the Mediterranean Sea, the city has several beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Festivals

Barcelona is known for its festivals, including the famous La Mercè festival, which takes place in September and includes parades, fireworks, and concerts.

Sports

Just like the rest of Europe, Barcelona is HUGE on fútbol/football (soccer for some of y’all out there. you know who you are). If you end up traveling to Barcelona the same date as a game at Camp Nou- home to FC Barcelona, try to score some tickets! Fútbol is such a popular sport here, they don’t even allow the sale of alcohol inside stadiums due to how rowdy the crowd already gets sober. I’ve never seen a grown man cry more than I have inside this stadium. The vibes are immaculate.

I was lucky enough to see Messi score a goal back in 2019 during a home game!

Overall, Barcelona is definitely one of my favorite European cities to visit. I’ve already been back 4 times in the past 4 years!

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