Jack & Lau
Things to Do
A Walk on La Rambla
La Rambla is the most famous street in central Barcelona. A tree-lined pedestrian avenue, it stretches for 1.2 kilometres (about 3/4 mile) connecting the Plaça de Catalunya in the city's center with the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell (Barcelona's main seaside marina). Start at Plaça de Catalunya and stroll seaward. Enjoy the street performers, colorful flower stalls, and vibrant kiosks selling souvenirs. Stop by La Boqueria market for a fresh juice or a tasty snack, and peek into the historic Gran Teatre del Liceu. Explore the narrow side streets for authentic tapas...and don't forget to keep an eye on your belongings :) Finish your 'paseo' with a dry 'vermut' on a terrace by the marina!
A Tale of Two Churches
Santa Maria del Mar and the Catedral de Barcelona are the two most important Gothic churches in the Old City (Barri Gòtic) of Barcelona. The city's Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia was built between the 13th and 15th centuries and serves as the seat of the Archdiocese. The cathedral is known for its elaborate façade, a spectacular Catalan Gothic choir in the middle of its nave, and a cloister housing 13 white geese. Just 500m east, you'll find the Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar. Built in the 14th century, the Basílica is known as the “people’s cathedral” because it was funded and constructed by merchants, sailors, and artisans. Its Catalan Gothic design is remarkably uniform, as it was completed in just 55 years. Start at the Catedral and proceed to Santa Maria del Mar. Make sure to take the Carrer del Bisbe on the southwest side of the Catedral, where you'll see remains of the city's old Roman wall and El Ponte del Bisbe, another of Barcelona's Gothic landmarks.
Museums
MACBA – A hub for modern and contemporary art in El Raval, featuring key works from the mid-20th century onward. MNAC – Housed in the Palau Nacional on Montjuïc, it showcases Catalan art from Romanesque frescoes to modernism—and offers an amazing lookout spot as well! Picasso Museum – Set in medieval mansions in Born (the Gothic Quarter), it explores Picasso’s early years and lifelong ties to Barcelona, featuring his Blue Period, early sketches, and ceramics. MOCO Museum – Showcasing Banksy, Basquiat, Warhol, and more, this funky modern and contemporary art museum in a historic palace blends street art, pop culture, and immersive digital installations. Fundació Antoni Tàpies – A museum dedicated to the Catalan abstract artist, featuring experimental works in a modernist building with a wire sculpture on top. CCCB – A cultural center with rotating exhibitions on contemporary issues, photography, and digital arts, plus film screenings, talks, and festivals.
Architecture
Sagrada Família (a must-see!) – Gaudí’s iconic, still-unfinished basilica, blending Gothic and Art Nouveau with intricate façades and a forest-like interior. Colònia Güell – A modernist workers’ village outside Barcelona, home to Gaudí’s crypt, an experimental structure with curved forms and colorful mosaics. Parc Güell – A whimsical park by Gaudí, featuring mosaic-covered benches, organic shapes, and panoramic views from its famous terrace. Fundació Antoni Miró – A contemporary art space dedicated to Antoni Miró, showcasing his politically charged works in a modern, indoor-outdoor setting. La Pedrera – Also known as Casa Milà, this undulating stone apartment building features Gaudí's signature wrought-iron balconies and surreal rooftop chimneys. Casa Batlló – A Gaudí masterpiece with a bone-like façade, flowing interiors, and a dragon-inspired roof. Temple Sagrat Cor de Jesús – A neo-Gothic church atop Mount Tibidabo, offering breathtaking city views.
Day Trips
Montserrat (1h by train) – A stunning mountain range with a famous monastery, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. *A Jack favorite!* Costa Brava – Camí de Ronda (1.5h by car) – A scenic coastal trail with turquoise coves, rugged cliffs, and picturesque villages. *A Lau favorite!* Girona (40min by train) – A medieval city with colorful riverside houses, well-preserved walls, and "Game of Thrones" filming locations. Sitges (40min by train) – A charming coastal town with sandy beaches, a vibrant old town, and a lively arts scene. Tarragona (1h by train) – A historic city with well-preserved Roman ruins, including a seaside amphitheater. Cadaqués (2.5h by car) – The hometown and eventual refuge of Salvador Dalí. A whitewashed seaside village just south of France, known for its artistic heritage and crystal-clear waters.
The Best Local Food and Coffee
If you’re on the hunt for trendy coffee shops or want to dive into local cuisine with a modern twist, reach out to the bride! She’s always discovering the coolest spots around the city and loves sharing her finds. She’ll make sure you experience Barcelona like a local—and a seriously stylish one at that.