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Discover the top 10 points of interest of Barcelona

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Barcelona is one of those cities you can come back to a million times and never see it all. For those of you first-time visitors, and for repeat visitors, here are some of the top points of interest in Barcelona that you won’t want to miss!

THE BARCELONA CATHEDRAL

The Barcelona Cathedral is located in the Gothic District just after the famous shopping street, El Portal del Angel. Dating back to 1298, this cathedral is dedicated to one of the Patron Saints of Barcelona, Santa Eulalia. Wander around the inside and the lush cloisters and don’t miss going up in the elevator to the rooftop for awesome views.

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SAGRADA FAMILIA

One of the most emblematic buildings in Barcelona, Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s still unfinished masterpiece is a must when visiting Barcelona. Yes, entry is expensive, but yes it is a must; the inside is now mostly finished. We recommend taking an audio guide and wandering around the mystical building inside, also don’t miss going up in one of the towers for spectacular views of Barcelona.

Local tip: Book ahead of time to avoid lines

 

PEDRALBES MONASTERY

Located in one of the wealthiest areas of Barcelona, the Pedralbes Monastery is one of those points of interest that goes unperceived on the tourist trail, but we highly recommend it. The Royal Monastery of St Mary of Pedralbes is a unique historical and cultural remembrance of the Poor Clare community who lived there since 1327. More than 700 years of history make this monastery a fascinating window into the monastic life and the history of Catalonia and Barcelona.

BUNKERS EL CARMEL

Until recently the Bunkers in the Carmel neighborhood were a hidden local secret. Unfortunately, word has got out that these ex-civil war bunkers are the “it” place to see great views of the city and have a picnic or watch the sunset. It’s a bit of a trek from Barcelona city center, but taking the V17 bus to the last stop, you really can’t go wrong.

LA PEDRERA

Casa Milà, or popularly known as “La Pedrera” (the stone quarry), was built by Antoni Gaudí in the early 1900s. This UNESCO World Heritage site is spectacular both inside and out. Don’t miss walking around on the rooftop for great views of Passeig de Gracia and Sagrada Familia. You can also do a night tour where they do video mapping on the chimneys and end with a glass of cava inside. In the summer months, they also do concerts on the rooftop.

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Good morning Barcelona

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THE PICASSO MUSEUM

One of the most complete collections of Picasso in the world, after the museum in Malaga, the Picasso Museum in Barcelona, located at the eclectic El Born district, is a must-see for lovers of Picasso and modern art. Occasional temporary exhibitions make this a great point of interest even for repeat visits.

PLAÇA DEL REI

This is one of the most beautiful and historical squares in all of Barcelona and is also one of the architectural ensembles that best portrays Barcelona’s medieval past. The square is complete with the Palau Reial Major, and a watchtower on one side and on the other side remnants of the Roman wall of Barcelona, as well as the city’s history museum, containing archeological remains of Roman Barcelona. For history buffs and those wanting to get a historical overview of Barcelona, this square is a must.

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TORRE AGBAR

Visitors to Barcelona can’t help but notice this rather phallic tower that is so iconic to Barcelona’s recent skyline. This bullet-shaped tower was built in 2003 by Atelier Jean Nouvel and b720 architectural practice. At night the tower lights up. Entrance to the tower is free and you can take an elevator to the top to enjoy panoramic views while having a bite to eat at the tower’s restaurant. The tower is subject to long discussions by locals and visitors alike, a favorite in Barcelona!

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MONTJUIC FOUNTAINS

The Montjuic Fountains have a free show not to be missed! At sunset from Weds-Sunday during the summer months, the fountains come alive choreographed to music and a light show. A super fun thing to do in Barcelona for the whole family!

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TEATRO LICEU

Whether you see a show or take a guided tour of the Teatro Liceu, it’s definitely worth a visit. The theater was built in 1847 by Miquel Garriga i Roca and was the favorite gathering place for Catalan upper middle class. Nowadays, all kinds of activities and events are organized.

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As well, in case you fancy uncovering Barcelona´s hidden spots and its gastronomy, check out our culinary walks in the city of counts:

Author: Jessica Freedman is a travel blogger, Instagrammer and devoted foodie who dedicates her time to find the best foods while traveling. You can follow her adventures at Fanatical Foodies.