Barcelona
My trip started with a $34 Amtrack train ride from Michigan to Chicago, followed by a flight to Barcelona for just $350 (yes, round trip)! I have to mention this to remind you just how accessible traveling can be. To find cheap flights I use Skyscanner, Hopper and Google Flights. Thankfully my soul sister Angie told me about this flight, so I booked immediately to celebrate her 30th with her. Though there were multiple methods of transportation involved; planes, ferries, trains, taxis and buses, it was definitely worth it. Our amazing journey included Barcelona, Malta and Italy.
Barcelona:
We arrived to Barcelona and it was Independence Day! The city was full of festivities and the streets were packed with locals wearing and waving their flag proudly. As soon as we checked into our hostel, we hit the streets to maximize our time since we only had 2 full days in Barcelona. Aside from the Independence Day festivities, I felt like Barcelona was pretty touristy with a younger population.
Need to know:
Currency is euro.
Credit cards are accepted in most places, however it’s helpful to have cash on hand in the event a taxi, smaller cafe or store doesn’t accept credit cards.
Primary language is Spanish, English is widely spoken as well.
Getting around:
WALK everywhere, I’m not sure if it’s just me, but I find it very easy and enjoyable to get lost down beautiful streets. It’s the best way to see and experience the city. Barcelona is very walkable.
Public transit system is very tourist friendly, easy to navigate and cheap. I would recommend buying a 10 trip pass because it is the cheapest option if you plan to take the subway (equates to a little over 1 euro per trip). Note: to/ from the airport requires a different ticket that is a little more expensive (5 euro).
Free Now is an app they use, similar to Uber. The cost is quite a bit more compared to public transit, but it is convenient if you are strapped for time. We did find that half of the drivers like to make up their own rules, for example running the meter in addition to paying through the app (the joys of traveling).
Things to see:
The works of Antoni Gaudi, the incredible Spanish architect with seven recognized buildings. There are tours available to see them all, we just happened to stumble upon one (Casa Batlló) while walking and was able to see the La Sagrada Familia from afar.
Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar - Beautiful cathedral in Gothic Quarter.
Gothic Quarter - Central area to walk through and get lost in the streets.
Parc de la Ciutadella - Beautiful park in the city where you can lay out a blanket and picnic or walk through. Keep an eye out of their bright blue and green birds!
Barcelona beach - Busy/ touristy, but still beautiful!
Yoga - Glow Yoga Barcelona
Food & Drinks:
Eat tapas and drink sangria!
Federal Cafe - For a healthy breakfast with plenty of juice and coffee options.
Bobby Free - Speak easy bar, from outside it looks like a barber shop then once you give the password (found on their IG) you’re granted access through the secret door wall. The drinks were wild, some with popcorn and chocolate! They had live music and a great vibe.
Be chocolat - Chocolate bar, best churros I have ever had, served with warm milk chocolate.
Where to stay:
Serennia Fira Gran Via hotel - great accommodations, very clean, friendly staff and good location.
Sending you love and travel bugs,
Anayat ❤