4-Day Itinerary for Barcelona, Spain

Day 1: Exploring the City Center

Morning:

• La Rambla: Start your day at this iconic street, filled with shops, street performers, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the famous bird market (Mercat dels Ocells) and Wanderflower Market (Mercat de la Boqueria).

Afternoon:

• Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): Discover the historic heart of Barcelona, visit Barcelona Cathedral, Pont del Bisbe (Bishop’s Bridge), Plaça Sant Jaume, and the City Hall.
• Plaça de Sant Felip Neri: A peaceful square with a beautiful church and an interesting history.

Evening:

• El Raval District: Explore this trendy neighborhood with street art, independent shops, and great eateries. Try Tapas at “Bar Cañete” or “Cervecería Catalana”.

Accommodation:

• Hotel Casa Fuster, a beautiful modernist building in the Eixample district.

Day 2: Modernista Barcelona

Morning:

• Casa Milà (La Pedrera): Discover Gaudí’s masterpiece, a unique apartment building with undulating stone facade.
• Passeig de Gràcia: Stroll along this elegant boulevard, home to several Gaudí buildings including Casa Batlló.

Afternoon:

• Sagrada Familia: Visit Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Família basilica.
• Parc Güell: Enjoy stunning city and sea views from this hillside park designed by Gaudí.

Evening:

• El Born District: Dine in one of its numerous restaurants, such as “Cercle Céleri” or “Can Paixano (La Boqueria)”. Explore the nightlife at “Jamboree”, a classic jazz club.

Day 3: Montserrat and Gaudí’s Nature

Morning:

• Montserrat: Take a day trip to this spectacular mountain range, home to a Benedictine monastery and a sanctuary of the Black Madonna. You can reach Montserrat by train from Barcelona (Aeri de Montserrat cable car is an option for better views).

Afternoon:

• Colonia Güell: Visit another Gaudí’s unfinished work, the crypt at Colonia Güell, a fascinating example of his early modernist style.

Evening:

• Return to Barcelona and rest.

Day 4: Beaches and Parks

Morning:

• Barceloneta Beach: Soak up the sun on one of Barcelona’s most famous beaches, try fresh seafood at “El Quim de la Barceloneta”.
• Port Vell and Aquarium: Explore the old port and consider visiting the Oceanarium, if time allows.

Afternoon:

• Parc del Laberint d’Horta: Visit one of the oldest gardens in Europe, a beautiful labyrinth and romantic landscape.

Evening:

• Gòtic Quarter: Relax at one of the many terraces in the Gothic Quarter or enjoy a farewell tapas dinner. “41º” is a popular choice for its rooftop terrace with city views.

Transportation:

• Metro (TMB): Barcelona’s metro system is extensive and efficient, ideal for getting around the city. Get a T-10 or Hola Card for unlimited travel within a certain period.

Tips:

• Pickpocketing: Be aware of pickpockets, especially in touristy areas like La Rambla and the beaches. Keep your belongings secure.
• Language: Catalan is the local language, but Spanish and English are widely spoken too.
• Hours: Shops close for siesta between 2 PM and 5 PM. Restaurants typically open for lunch around 1:30 PM to 4 PM, then reopen for dinner from 8 PM onwards.

Enjoy your stay in Barcelona!