I’ve had a ton of people reach out recently as they or their friends plan trips to Barcelona. Now that we’ve been here for a few months, I have a pretty good feel for the city and can finally share some recommendations. And exciting news! Aside from just sending around my recos, I’ve decided to launch my own mini workout tour!
Have you guys heard of Airbnb Experiences? You can sign up to be a experience host in your city, sharing your unique perspective with visitors. My “experience” is now live and I’m so excited to share it with you (and hopefully you will share it with friends that are planning a trip to BCN!).
My Airbnb Experience is a guided run and bootcamp, making stops at the most notable Gaudi spots around the city. After the workout, I’ll host a little brunch as we chat about Barcelona. You can read more about the experience and book your spot HERE.
To celebrate the launch of my experience, this week on the blog is all about Barcelona! I’m breaking down all my recos into categories and will be sharing them over the course of this week. I actually shared my first Barcelona-focused post last week, the cutest Barcelona coffee shops you need to visit.
Coffee is great and all, but when you think Barcelona, you probably think of Gaudi. And if you don’t, you should! Gaudi’s crazy architecture is scattered all over the city. I’m not super into architecture or museums, but I love visiting Gaudi’s houses and parks and find it all so interesting. If you’re also not into architecture, visiting some of Gaudi’s works may change your mind.
For the below spots that offer tours, I recommend buying your tickets in advance online. You’ll be able to skip the long lines and the prices tend to be cheaper then when purchased at the door.
Must-See Gaudi Spots Around the City
Casa Batllo
This was the first Gaudi experience I had in Barcelona a few years back. This beautiful house is located on Passeig de Gracia and is a must. Take the audio tour and wander around this unique house to get a real feel for Gaudi style. Even though I live 3 blocks from Casa Batllo, I stop and stare at it (and usually snap a picture) every time I pass it.
Casa Mila
Just about 5 blocks north of Casa Batllo, this is another cool house with a great audio tour. The rooftop is definitely the most interesting part.
Park Guell
In the northern part of the city is a huge park designed by Gaudi. It was meant to be a private community with 60 houses but there wasn’t much interest and only two houses ended up being built. You can walk through some of the park for free, but it’s worth paying the admission price to see the most interesting spots.
La Sagrada Familia
You can’t visit Barcelona and not see La Sagrada Familia, the giant church that has been under construction since 1882 (it’s nearing the end of the construction though!). If you don’t have time for a tour, at least walk by to see the exterior. If you do have the time, take a walk inside. As long as you aren’t afraid of heights or climbing down stairs, tour one of the towers.
Cascada Fountain at Park de La Ciutadella
La Ciutadella is a pretty park that you’ll see as you near the water. Within the park is an ornate fountain designed by Gaudi that’s worth walking by. There are long stairways along the fountain which are great for a little park bootcamp action.
Placa Reial
Within this lively plaza are lanterns designed by Gaudi. Stop here for a drink or coffee outside. Excellent for people watching and taking in some vitamin D.
If you’ve been to Barcelona, which Gaudi spot is your favorite? I think Casa Batllo takes the lead for me.
(pin this and save it for later!)
On Wednesday I’ll be back with my favorite healthy restaurants around Barcelona. See you then!
