Parc Guell

A pleasant bit of greenery for the city-dweller in need of rest, this park was designed by the legendary architect Antonio Gaudi and named after the wealthy commissioner of the project. There's plenty of room for strolling but there's also opportunities to see fanciful structures designed by Gaudi and his assistants Josep M. Jujol and Francesc Berenguer. The original vision of Guell called for the area to be development into a rendition of an English village but when projected sales of the houses failed to materialize, the local government purchased the site and eventually recommissioned it as a city park.

Gran de Gracia

This thoroughfare offers abundant proof of Barcelona's love of architecture and design. The early 20th century buildings straddle several styles. Of course, architecture is best appreciated on foot rather than zooming past in a vehicle but exercise caution when walking. This avenue has a high traffic flow.

Placa del Rei

Legend has it that it was here that Christopher Columbus had an audience with the King and Queen of Spain after his return from the New World but scholars believe the royal couple were not in Barcelona when Columbus first arrived. The legend need not be true to enjoy time in the plaza. Ancient historical monuments in the area make the square a worthwhile destination.

Placa Rius i Taulet

Historically, this is where politically-active residents of the independent-minded Gracia rallied for various causes. Gracia, now a district of Barcelona but once a small town, tried in vain to secede from Spain on several occasions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A special attraction is the clock tower dating from the 19th century. It was designed by Berenguer.

Las Ramblas

This group of thoroughfares were once part of a riverbed. The streets still flow but this time with people. This is one of the chief areas to walk and linger if you want to see and be seen. The area has shops, markets, street performers and restaurants. When you want an unstructured afternoon with a hint of the impromptu this is the place to go.

The Beach at Barceloneta

Run away from the traffic noise and stick your toes in the sand. There are plenty of sun-worshipers, weekend athletes and musicians to keep the scene lively. The area is also ringed with restaurants and cafes. Like any beach near an international city it can get crowded in the summer.