Itinerary #2: Barcelona...
There's plenty to see here, and this is only written from time spent during a long weekend. We do try to see as much as possible, so here's a guide for 2-3 days in Barcelona...
Where to stay:
We stayed at the HCC Regente (there are other HCC hotels throughout the city as well), in the neighborhood of Eixample. It was a great location -- walking distance to Las Ramblas, and around the corner from Cervesería Catalana, the restaurant I raved about in my post about our trip. Anything around that area would be great, Gràcia is similar, or I'd suggest Ciutat Vella to be closer to the Gothic Quarter and nightlife... depends on what you're looking for!
Hop On / Hop Off
Would definitely recommend using the Hop On/Hop Off bus to tour the city. You can walk most places in the city, but there are a couple areas that are a little far, unless you're looking for a hike! The rail system is great too, but the bus provides transportation AND audio commentary. There are a couple different lines to take: red and blue are the best; green is just OK, but is good transportation to Port Olímpic. About €20 for a two-day pass, pick it up in Plaza Catalunya.
What to see:
Las Ramblas - pedestrian street, filled with street vendors - very cool place to walk through - watch for pickpockets, as it is a touristy area!
Gaudí works: Casa Milà, Caso Batlló, Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Colònia Güell... MUST sees! Park Güell was probably my favorite of our trip. The architecture is so interesting, the park is beautiful, and there are great views of the city from the top.
Port Vella: Las Ramblas ends in Monumento a Colón and Port Vella. Pretty area, has the Museu D'Història De Catalunya.
Barceloneta: neighborhood in Ciutat Vella district - next to the beach, also has a market to check out - good place to stop for lunch or dinner
Barri Gòtic: neighborhood with medieval architecture, narrow pedestrian streets, opening up to little plazas
Montjuïc / Museo Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC): art museum - we actually didn't go in the museum, but the building is gorgeous and the steps of Palau Nacional provide one of the best views of the city
Also, Fuente mágica de Montjuic, "magic fountains," with an impressive lights display at night, and the Olympic village (from 1992 Olympics) are nearby...
Cable car to Montjuïc: We didn't do this and I want to next time!! Take a cable car up to Montjüic to see Castle Montjüic and 360 views of Barcelona
FC Barcelona: Lastly, I would recommend seeing a Barça game at Camp Nou - they weren't in town while we were there, but it's definitely on the list for next time!
Of course, mix in stops for food to try tapas (huevos fritos, jamón iberico, patatas bravas.. to name a few favorites), black paella, mojitos, sangría, good house wines, etc.... suggestions from the locals are always the best!
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