Exploring the Pearl of Iberia - Barcelona | So Beautiful It Leaves You Speechless!
Barcelona Travel Guide | Encounter Gaudí's Fantasy World
Hey everyone 👋, today I'm sharing a travel guide for Barcelona, a city brimming with artistic charm and romantic vibes, especially Gaudí's architecture, which is utterly mesmerizing. I'll mainly focus on three amazing attractions: the Sagrada Família, Casa Vicens, and Park Güell.
🏰 Sagrada Família
The Sagrada Família is the soul of Barcelona, designed by Gaudí. Construction began in 1882 and is still ongoing, with completion expected in 2026. The cathedral features three facades: the Nativity Facade, the Passion Facade, and the Glory Facade (still under construction). Its eighteen towers represent the Twelve Apostles, the Virgin Mary, the Four Evangelists, and Jesus Christ, with 13 completed so far.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours. It's highly advised to book tickets in advance on the official website to skip the line and choose your preferred time. Ticket prices:
- Basic ticket + audio guide: €26 (adults), €24 (students and under 30), €21 (seniors), free for children under 11.
- Tower access: €36 (adults), €34 (students and under 30), €28 (seniors), free for children under 11.
Opening hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
Transport: Take Metro Line 2 or 5 to Sagrada Família station.
🏡 Casa Vicens
This was Gaudí's first private residential project and the work that launched his fame. Unlike the surrounding ordinary houses, it may lack the complex curves of the Sagrada Família, but it showcases thoughtful considerations for practicality and light. The house features vibrant green-and-white tiles and an ornate wrought-iron gate, making it eye-catching.
Ticket: €20 (no reservation needed), includes a web-based audio guide (available in Chinese) to better understand the building's history and culture.
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM.
Transport: Located in the Gràcia district, take the metro to Diagonal station and walk.
🎠 Park Güell
Originally designed by Gaudí for wealthy businessman Eusebi Güell, the plan was to build 60 villas, but only 3 were sold due to the remote location, so it was later converted into a park. The park features broken tile mosaics adorning walls, stairs, and benches, and the adorable gingerbread house at the entrance serves as the security office. It feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
Ticket: €18 (advance booking recommended).
Opening hours: Daily, 9:30 AM - 7:30 PM.
Transport: Take Metro L3 to Lesseps station, then walk uphill for about 15 minutes.
❗ Travel Tips:
- Barcelona has excellent public transport. Consider buying a T-Casual (10-ride pass, €12.15, Zone 1, valid until year-end) or T-Familiar (8-ride pass, €10.70, Zone 1, valid for 30 days) for cost savings.
- Many attractions like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell require advance tickets to avoid delays.
- Spanish dining hours are late; restaurants usually open around 8:30 PM.
- Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
These three attractions each have their unique charm—the grandeur of the Sagrada Família, the elegance of Casa Vicens, and the whimsy of Park Güell—all worth experiencing firsthand. Pack your bags and embark on a journey to encounter Gaudí's fantastical architecture! 🧳💕