Barcelona, Catalonia’s capital and Spain’s second largest city, offers so many things to do that you could spend weeks uncovering its highlights. This city of culture attracts millions of tourists with its interesting architecture, delicious food and popular art scene.
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When in Barcelona:
1. Visit Sagrada Familia. Still in the making, this iconic landmark in the center of Barcelona is a must visit. It is one of renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi’s most famous works and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Truly an architectural wonder, the church was also consecrated and proclaimed a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI. It features a museum which showcases the history of and the future plans for the church.
2. Visit the Casa Batll. Another remarkable Gaudi work, it is an excellent example of Modernisme or Art Nouveau architecture. It is located in the affluent district of Passeig de Gracia and was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005.
3. Have a stroll in Park Guell. This public park is said to be one of Gaudi’s most outstanding masterpieces. Commissioned as a garden-city, the park showcases Gaudi’s attempt to integrate architecture into the natural setting through imagination, fantasy and color.
4. Walk La Rambla. Your visit to Barcelona wouldn’t be complete without wandering up and down this 1.2 kilometer boulevard. See landmark buildings and experience the busy street culture. There are newspaper and souvenirs kiosks, street performers, cafes, restaurants, shops of painters and local markets that will surely pique your interest from end to end.
5. Go to the Beach. Barcelona’s 4.5 kilometer stretch of golden sand beach allows you to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea all year round. You can bathe in the shallow waters, enjoy some watersports, ride a bike, just laze around or simply enjoy the view from a cafe.
6. Visit La Pedrera. Another sample of Gaudi’s genius, the La Pedrera is also known as the Casa Mila . This unique building was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984 and currently houses the headquarters of the Fundacia Catalunya Caixa. It features an exhibit of Gaudi’s work and an apartment of period design with original layout and features.
7. Visit the Picasso Museum. See the permanent collection of over 3800 works of the great Picasso from his formative years and from different periods.
8. Eat Paella. You should definitely try traditional  Spanish Paella while in Barcelona. There are a number of decent Catalan restaurants in the city.
9. Take in a Futbol Game. Futbol has become a symbol of Catalan culture. Thus, watching a futbol game while in Barcelona should enhance your cultural exposure.
10. Drink wine. Have a taste of authentic Spanish wine. You can also take a Wine Tasting and/or Winery tour while enjoying the countryside just a few minutes from Barcelona.
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Photo credits:
Park Guell – john.purvis
Picasso Museum – Cea