A city with its own unique identity, Barcelona continues to mesmerize visitors from all over the world with its incredible architecture, food and culture. Gaudi’s influence has spread all over the city and exploring his exquisite structures are some of the best things to do here. The additional draw of the Barcelona football team is that they have arguably the best player to ever play the game in Lionel Messi. If that’s not enough, the world class beaches and nightlife on offer here are plenty to keep young couples busy for a while. There is truly some amazing activities on offer here for all visitors.

Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do, especially for first time tourists is to walk down the charming Las Ramblas that originates from Plaça de Catalunya all the way to the Columbus Monument. The promenade is full of food-stalls, monuments as well as shopping centres etc. It is literally the heart of Barcelona and serves as the focal point for young families and couples visiting the city for the first time.

An architectural masterpiece from Antoni Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia continues to capture the imagination of all visitors who come across it. Nearly 140 years after he began work on it, only 3 quarters of the structure has been completed. The design style is an amalgamation of Catalan Modernism, Art Nouveau and Spanish Late-Gothic techniques which gives it a unique vibe. A trip to this magnificent structure is one of the best things to do in the city.

Another world-renowned structure from the genius mind of Gaudi, the Casa Batllo this space originally started off as an apartment which was then modified by him in 1904. Also known as the House of Bones, it serves as yet another glowing example of the Art Nouveau Movement that Gaudi was one the starts of. The outside of the building was constructed using fragmented, multi-coloured mosaic overlaying that is sure to delight art and design enthusiasts.  

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage listed site in 1984, the Casa Mila was completed by Gaudi (1906 to 1912) and is considered to be his final construction and crown jewel. Famously known as La Pedrera or the Stone Quarry based on its outward design and appearance, it continues to draw visitors from all over the word in appreciation of his unique modernist design.

Stretching for miles on end, the boardwalk in Barcelona is filled with outstanding bars, restaurants, hotels and shopping centres. Barcelona is considered to offer some of the best nightlife in the world and its beachside energy is not to be missed. Visitors flock to Barcelona to enjoy the many spectacular beaches on offer and to soak up some sun. Sant Sebastià Beach continues to draw massive numbers of tourists throughout the year. Barceloneta Beach offers more stylish shopping centres and charming cafes.

Arguably one of the oldest and most famous local markets in the world, La Bouqeria’s ceiling itself was created in 1914 and hasn’t changed since. The market itself is a whirlwind of colours and flavours, offering fruits, vegetables, wines, meat and cheese of the highest quality. Being Barcelona’s trading hub for 200 years and counting, this is a great place to grab a drink and some tapas for visitors looking to unwind.

Home to FC Barcelona, one of the world’s most celebrated football teams, a trip to this iconic stadium is truly one of the most enjoyable things to do, even for visitors who aren’t football fans. Seating over 98,000 fans the stadium’s historic relevance is synonymous with the city and if visitors get the opportunity to watch an actual game here, they shouldn’t think twice!

Located on Carmel Hill, a trip to this iconic public park is an ideal way to wrap with Gaudi’s brilliant structures. His House-Museum is also located in the park itself, for visitors keen to know more about his life and times. Arcades, fountains as well as monuments in his trademark style can all be found here. It is equally fun to have a picnic and spend the day here for kids as it is for art connoisseurs.