Where to Stay
I would recommend staying in the Gothic Quarter, but this is based solely on personal preference. I enjoy the narrow, medieval streets that lead to hidden tapas bars.
H10 Cubik: The location is wonderful and the hotel itself feels luxurious on a budget. The rooms were clean, spacious, and included all of the amenities that I appreciate while traveling (I love a high-quality robe and some slippers but throw in some fancy toiletries and I am SET).
What to Do
- The Paella Club: The Paella Club is not your typical cooking class. There is music, there is dancing, there is a never-ending flow of cava (what they call champagne in Spain), and I suppose there is also a bit of cooking. I danced, I drank, I met interesting people from all over the world, and I ate several types of delicious Paella. You will also receive an email with the recipe in case you want to give it a go at home.
- Park Guell: One of Gaudí’s architectural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Park Guell has architecture that reminds me of gingerbread houses. The park is a beautiful fusion of nature and art that feels like stepping into a storybook.
- Aire Bath House: The Aire Bath House is an exquisite spa experience. The spa has several types of baths that you can move through at your leisure, such as thermal, salt, and cold ones. You can also book spa experiences, such as massages, and there is tea and cava available (one free glass of cava is included depending on your booking type).
- La Sagrada Familia: Throughout my travels, I have visited more churches than I can recall, but none like La Sagrada Familia. The church feels like a story that is still being told (hopefully, with the long-awaited conclusion coming in 2030) as building has not yet been completed. La Sagrada is a masterpiece and I cannot stress the importance of wandering inside. The vibrant colors and attention to detail feel like being inside of a kaleidoscope.
- Mercat de la Boqueria: One of my favorite parts of Spain- and many European cities- is the markets. Shopping is not a chore, it is a social endeavor filled with laughter and a glass of wine. The Mercat de la Boquera had everything one could want: meats, cheeses, seafood, wine, cava, and Spanish olive oil- of which I brought 5 bottles home.
- Mr. Robinson: While waiting to try to get into Paradiso (which we did not succeed in), we stumbled across the street to Mr. Robinson and we were not disappointed. There was laughing, music, and impressive Latin dancing that made for a surprising nightcap.
Where to Eat
- La Alcoba Azul: Located near the Cathedral of Barcelona, La Alcoba Azul is a quaint tapas bar with amazing food (I highly recommend the octopus). The restaurant is small so expect a wait. The tapas are priced around 10-15 euros per plate.
