This was my second trip to Barcelona, and it was just as good as the first time. I really don’t think you can tire yourself of Barcelona. As I still haven’t had enough. ( Which means I’m definately planning to go again. Just have to sweeten the hubby up)
The first time I went with hubby and the kids, and we watched a game and had the tour of Camp Nou- (which was amazing. I need to do a blog on this!) And this time I went with Sabina, and we did…well….. Everything I wouldn’t do with the men in my life.
And that’s the beauty of Barcelona, it caters for all. I loved both my trips as much as each other.
The tickets were brought in advance from skyscanner- flights with Ryanair for £ 44. If you know you want to go, it’s best to book in advance and wait for the prices – as they fluctuate daily. And we were lucky that Ryan Air didn’t have any delays either. Bonus
As soon as we landed we went straight to the Aerobus located outside of the airport. Having been here before- we had already worked out getting around without the use of expensive taxis. For 2.15 euros we got dropped off outside Las Rambles within 30 minutes. The centre and hotspot of Barcelona. From here we walked down to our hotel which was a 15 minute walk away and located in Placa Reial. This is actually a popular square in the ‘Gothic’ part of Barcelona. Our stay for the 2 nights was at Hotel Roma Reial.
It is an actual square with a fountain in the middle, and surrounded by restaurants, coffee shops and clubs. Making it a tourist attraction and a very busy location especially at night.
Placa Roma Reial is a functional and basic hotel set In the best location. I couldn’t have asked for a better location. Rooms are clean and comfortable, the bathroom is clean, open and towels included.For our short city break, this was just perfect.
Breakfast is served in a cove at basement level, and it is quite cool, for breakfast we are given muffins, rolls, butter and jam, yoghurt, cereals, and hot drinks and cold juices. Exactly what we needed, and what we have for breakfast generally.
When leaving the square on the left a five minute walk away we have the cruise port, and on the right we have Las Ramblas. Could we get a better location? (Repeat that in Chandler’s voice from friends, it’s funnier.)
So what did we do?
La Boqueria Market / Las Ramblas Market
Known to be one of the most famous markets in Europe, this has to be visited when in last Ramblas.
This market is bursting with colours and smells and scents, it’s definately an experience not to be missed. It has all that a market has to offer- from the hustle and bustle, the bargaining and the pickpockets, and it tends to be busy no matter what time of day you go.
And the food is so enjoyable. The fresh fruit drinks are not to be missed.
Casa Batllò
From my first visit to Barcelona with the family- this building was always on my list of priorities to visit.
And it truly was everything that I expected it to be and more. This historical landmark/museum was bought and decorated by Antoni Gaudi, a Spanish architect. His work is known to be very individualistic, and one of a kind.
On entrance we are given a smart guide and headphones. The audio keeps us informed of all the rooms and how and why this famous landmark was decorated in the way it was. what textures were used, materials used, and general idea behind the structure of the whole building.
In the middle of a grand stairway, you start to see blue tiles making its way up in waves. This is intended to make you feel as though you are underwater. The skylight from above feeding it’s light through, making the tiles glimmer.
The whole building was a chaos of colours and contrast of materials. Then we went to the top floor and the ‘Servants quarters’ . Am I weird if I say that this was my favourite area? The colours stopped- and we had blank white walls, long corridors with arches, and it felt quiet spiritual, almost heavenly vibes .
This trip is not for feint hearted, the stairs do tire your legs out, but all in all, it’s a beautiful experience and a masterpiece. A must go in Barcelona.
Lasoglondrinas Boat Trip
Whilst walking down to the cruise port, we booked ourselves in for the boat trip. It’s a 40 minute boat trip out to the port and back for 7.70 euro each.
In these 40 minutes we get to enjoy the air, the sea and get a glimpse of few icons, and the harbour
And yup that’s Sabina in the middle holding on to the pole, because she decides to tell me at this point she’s sea sick. I do love this woman and all she does for me.
Shopping
The main attraction of Las Ramblas is the shopping! And with a Zara in every corner we were in heaven. From high street shops to designers, it’s a paradise. I’m glad we were only there for the 3 days- because if it had been longer we’d definately need to consider another suitcase on way back home.
Next up I’ll be telling you about all the food places we visited.
Stay tuned.
Hope you enjoyed- if you did, click the like and leave a comment
Love and regards.
M11bna
