Welcome to Barcelona, city of cultures, history and a myriad of good smelling foods. Regardless of whether one is planning a trip there, or has already arrived, it is important to learn about the largest sections that comprise this pretty city. However, in this guide, we shall present to you an outline of the main area in Barcelona, the most important places of interest, the districts and the outstanding buildings, monuments and structures.
1. The Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter better known in Catalan as Barri Gòtic is one of the oldest parts of Barcelona. Small and twisted, the streets of the town are lined with impressive architecture which proved to originate from the Middle ages. Here, the more curious tourist will find himself in front of the famous Gothic church of Barcelona – the Cathedral, the unique and famous square squared Reial, and the Square of St. James, which is one of the most important in the Barcelona’s architecture.
Visiting Gothic Quarter is like traveling through time, firstly due to theRoman and Gothic architecture. The old town itself contains dozens of plazas, numerous exclusive shops and cafes, so it is the best place to wander and absorb as much history of Barcelona as possible.
2. La Rambla
La Rambla, also referred to as Las Ramblas, is a pedestrian market street running from Plaça de Catalunya down to Port Vell. This colourful road is full of musicians, flower sellers, and more, and outdoor cafes, making it very lively and full of energy.
And as you walk around La Rambla, there are other interesting places that one can marvel at; some of the places include the Boqueria Market which offers fresh fruits and other foodstuff products. Do not leave without seeing the theatrical stage of the Gran Teatre del Liceu, the opera house in Barcelona, and the Mirador de Colom – a height at which you can bow to the genius of Christopher Columbus.
3. Eixample
Eixample is a district of Barcelona famous for its monumental Modernist buildings for which Antoni Gaudí is most famous. The district is divided into two parts: The two barrios within the Eixample district include Eixample Esquerra (or Left Eixample) and Eixample Dreta (Right Eixample).
Eixample is still rich in sights, but the most famous of them is undoubtedly the Sagrada Família – a work of Gaudí, which is a must see when in Barcelona. The district also boasts of other Gaudí masterpieces; Casa Batlló and Casa Milà/ La Pedrera. Eixample’s broad avenues are lined with fantastic and diverse architecture that is immensely enjoyable for tourists interested in this discipline.
4. Barceloneta
If you are in the mood for the beautiful sandy coastline and the amazingly fresh sea air then Barceloneta is the main beach area. This is Barcelona’s beach front area with an array of seafood restaurants, pubs and an excellent promenade by the beach.
It is a perfect place to take a walk along the sandy shoreline or to sun bathe, or even go water skiing. Seafood Paella should be on your list of food that you must consume while in Valencia’s beachfront restaurants.
Room Service & Meals Nightlife & Entertainment
5. Gràcia
Gràcia is an artsy neighborhood where people are cheerful and loud. This area boasts quaint piazzas including Plaça Sol and Plaça Vila de Gracia tha offer an opportunity to make the best of tree shade and enjoy a cup of coffee.
Different festivals are celebrated in Gràcia all year round but the biggest is La Festa Major de Gràcia which displays the most beautiful street-focused illuminations. But if you are the kind of tourist that wants to escape the buzzing tourist crowds and get closer to the real life – Gràcia is the district that you have been looking for.
Conclusion
I think everybody knows Barcelona is a city of districts and all of them distinguish from others. Everything beginning from the old world vibe of the Gothic Quarter to the highly modern Barceloneta beach, to the lauded blocks of Eixample, Barcelona has places for everyone.
However, it is advisable to devote some time to each large area and, perhaps, get lost in the wrinkles of the colorful passways to meet the unique heartbeat of this fantastic city. You will find that Barcelona’s main areas are virtually begging to be explored by newbies – so get going!
Table of Contents