By GETTING THERE
After less than 48 hours in La Rioja, my friends and I headed to Barcelona. We arrived in about four hours on the Renfe train, which is apparently the mode of transportation to use when exploring Spain.
WHERE TO LAY YOUR HEAD ON A PILLOW
We stayed at an Airbnb in Catalonia. The Airbnb was nice, but definitely pricey compared to my pre-Spain accommodations. It was located in a safe neighborhood, spacious, modern technology, so I guess a splurge is nice every now and then…I say that now, but wait until I get to the budget section.
GETTING AROUND BARCELONA
Up to this point, I’ve relied heavily on my own two feet to get around — good for my wallet and my waistline. When traveling with others, majority rules. So in Barcelona, I found myself in quite a few taxis. At times, we found it difficult to find open cabs in Catalonia. So if this is your transportation of choice, be prepared to wait. One day I insisted we walk and we stumbled upon Park Güell. Great views, architecture by Gaudí, a quick workout…what’s not to like?
WHERE TO EAT
Do yourself a favor and make your way to La Boqueria. You won’t be disappointed! Located in Las Ramblas, you can eat until your heart’s content then explore the area. You can snack on fresh fruits, nuts, enjoy a smoothie, or sit down for a larger meal. I was super hungry when I visited La Boqueria, so I did the latter. I ate at El Quim de La Boqueria. I waited for a seat at the bar for at least 30 minutes, but it was well worth the wait. I had the salmon, second only to the salmon I had in Porto (I swear I still think about that salmon from time to time). As I ate my food, I eyed all of the other options, which looked equally delicious. If I return, I’ll definitely eat there again.
THINGS TO DO
Barcelona has so much to offer, so deciding what to do depends on your interests. Explore Catalonia, Las Ramblas, Gothic Quarter…like I said, options.
My friend and I decided to get tickets to La Sagrada Familia. We were able to get same-day tickets online, but options were limited, so if you’re interested in going inside try to secure tickets at least a day in advance to be on the safe side. In my opinion, going inside wasn’t worth the 15 € entry fee. Don’t get me wrong, when you step inside, it’s breathtaking. But after that first breath, that’s about it.
I didn’t make it to a fútbol match (blasphemy). I just couldn’t bring myself to spend 200 € on a ticket for a sport that I don’t particularly enjoy…or was it $200? Either way, I didn’t partake. My friends went and they had a great time. So if this is your goal (see what I did there), sounds like it’s worth the price tag.
BUDGET
Here’s a breakdown of my budget for six days in Barcelona. I lost track of some expenses (especially transportation) so I just rounded up here and there. Better to overestimate than under. Don’t be too alarmed by the cost of food and drinks; a lot of our meals paired well with wine…bottles of wine. Remember earlier when I said I was fine with an occasional splurge? After looking at this breakdown, I’m not.
| Item | Cost |
| La Rioja → Barcelona | 25 € = 30 USD |
| Accommodations | 330 € = 396 USD |
| Getting Around | 30 € = 36 USD |
| Food and Drinks | 200 € = 240 USD |
| Activities | 15 € = 18 USD |
| Total | 600 € = 720 USD |
*I used an exchange rate of 1 € = 1.2 USD
Ciao for now,
Marissa
This gave me flashbacks to my trip to Barcelona years ago. Except we went in winter but it was just as beautiful! Great post! I don’t think we got to the market though.
Thanks Katherine! I might have to visit Barcelona in the winter, when it’s less crowded.
Wow, wonderful weblog layout! How lengthy have you been blogging for? you made blogging glance easy. The entire glance of your web site is wonderful, as smartly as the content material!
Thanks Alex!! That made my day 🙂 I’ve been blogging for about a year now.
La Sangrada looks huge and amazing enough for me to visit. I would like to see Gothic Quater as well. Thanks for sharing your recommendation 🙂
It’s huge!! I’m curious to see what it will look like when it’s finished.
You really make it seem so easy together with your presentation however I in finding this topic to be really one thing which I feel I might by no means understand. It sort of feels too complex and very huge for me. I’m looking forward on your next put up, I will try to get the dangle of it!
Thanks for reading, Janette! I think I get what you’re saying about it feeling huge…but once you do it, you won’t look back. Just finished my post about my time in Amsterdam, feel free to check it out.
I do believe all of the concepts you have introduced on your post. They’re really convincing and can certainly work. Nonetheless, the posts are too brief for newbies. May just you please extend them a little from next time? Thank you for the post.
Thanks for reading, Jasmine! I’ve had some people tell me my posts are too short, others say they’re too long…So I just write until it feels right 🙂
We prefer lots of walking as well because that’s when you find the hidden gems like the park! And how can you not have Spanish food with plenty of wine? That is one splurge that I would have to take as well. Barcelona looks gorgeous. It’s on our list but we haven’t made it quite yet. Happy Travels.
So true, Heidi..walking can lead to uncovering hidden gems!! Spanish food and wine do pair quite well. Hope you make it to Barcelona soon!
Barcelona is one of my favourite cities in the world. Funny I had almost the same experience in la boqueria ❤️
I’d go back just to try more food at la boqueria!
I’ve heard so many mixed reviews about going inside La Sagrada Familia! I didn’t go inside (per the recommendation of a friend) the last time I was in Barcelona. But, then there were a bunch of people who said you HAVE to go inside lol. I think I may just check it out the next time I visit #fortheculture
One time for the culture…that makes sense 🙂