If you’re thinking of heading to Uzès this summer or anywhere else in the south of France, check out flights to and from Barcelona. Then grab a train.
When friends talk about visiting the south of France, I always suggest they look at airfare and consider coming in through Barcelona. It’s only a short train ride to some of the most visited places in France. I will emphasize the idea now that I’ve spent a couple of days in Barcelona. The city and the Catalan area of Spain shouldn’t be missed. In just two days, I sampled some of my favorite things — astonishing architecture, food, and shopping.
“Modernisme” at its best
I first visited Barcelona in 1966 with two college girlfriends from the University of North Carolina. We were on a “Europe-on-$5-a-day” tour in my new “fastback” VW. We’d picked up the car in London and traveled for nearly two months before arriving in Barcelona. Our mission was to attend a bullfight and eat paella. That’s all we knew about Spain, even though I had picked up some of the language in university Spanish classes.
Little did I know I would return to Barcelona 50 years later and find the city almost unrecognizable.
Who knew the Arena where we watched the famous matador Jesus Cordobés reign supreme would be a shopping center in 2016?
What a shame we didn’t do some homework before our 60’s tour and learn about Antoni Gaudi and his magnificent architecture. On the other hand, I was thrilled 50 years later to discover some of his most famous masterpieces.
Basílica de la Sagrada Família
The Basílica de la Sagrada Família is a large Roman Catholic church in Barcelona that started construction in 1882 under the auspices of the Spiritual Association of Devotees of Saint Joseph. Architect Francisco de Paula del Villar y Lozano began the project but resigned and turned it over to Catalan-Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi. The Spanish Gothic/Modernisme/Art Nouveau structure has been steady work for architects and builders since its first stones were laid. The centuries-old basilica and adjoining rooms, still being executed according to Gaudi’s plans, are expected to be completed in 2026.
I hope to be around to see it!
Casa Batlló, also known as Casa dels osseous (House of Bones) is a landmark building in the center of Barcelona. The house was remodeled by Gaudi in 1904 as part of a trend in modernism in the city’s wealthy residential district during the late 1800’s. The revitalized downtown area, known as “mansana de la discòrdia” or “block of discord,” features three re-constructed houses, each of contrasting designs — Casa Batlló by Gaudi, which is next door to Casa Amatller by Puig i Cadafalch, and down the street is Domènech i Montaner‘s Casa Lleó Morera.
Casa Milá in Barcelona
Not one to “stay within the lines,” Gaudi had a vision for Casa Batlló that included a rounded version of everything — from windows to hallways.
Perhaps the most breathtaking parts of the house, to me, was the “servant’s quarters” on the top floor, the stairway to the rooftop … and the incredible views.
“Servants quarters” at Casa Batlló in Barcelona
Unique ventilation system designed by Gaudi for the upper level of Casa Batlló
The theory about the rounded features Gaudi created for Casa Batlló is that he envisioned Saint George, the patron saint of Catalonia, plunging a dragon with a lance.
Rooftop at Casa Batlló
View of Barcelona from the rooftop at Casa Batlló
Barcelona from the rooftop at Casa Batlló
Casa Amatller was the first of the homes to be updated by neoclassical architects in Barcelona’s “mansana de la discòrdia” section. Owned by chocolatier Antoni Amatller Costa, the mansion was built in 1875 and redesigned in 1898 by Antoni Puigi Cadafalch, one of the most prolific Catalan architects and town planners of the early 20th century. Inspired by traditional Catalan and Gothic styles, Puig was influenced by European trends of the time — exposed bricks, tile, and wrought iron.
Casa Amatlier by Josep Puig i Cadafaich
Antoni Amatlier was a renowned industrialist famous for introducing a revolutionary system that allowed for the quick and large-scale production of chocolate. He was also an avid collector. The home still contains original family furnishings and collectibles. Antoni Amatller died in 1910. His daughter, Teresa, continued the business of chocolate until she sold Chocolates Amatller S.A. After she died in 1960, the home was turned into a museum under the guardianship of the Barcelona City Council. It became the Fundació Institut Amatller d’Art Hispànic (Amatller Institute of Hispanic Art).
Casa Amatlier
Casa Amatlier
If you aren’t familiar with Chocolates Amatller, a lovely store is on the ground floor of the museum — complete with all types of chocolate treats to enjoy on the spot or to take out. Need I say that some of that sweet chocolate for the hot chocolate found its way into my suitcase?
Casa Lleó i Morera was refurbished in the late 1800’s by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, commissioned by wealthy divorcé Francisca Morera Oritz. Unfortunately Oritz died before living in the mansion. Her son, Albert Lleó I Morera, and his family took charge of the house, hence the name. Just recently opened to the public, I only viewed the mansion from the outside. Next time I won’t miss it!
CASA LLEÓ I MORERA
Entrance showing wooden carriage lift
Food to die for!
Tapas, pizza, and cafes galore fill the streets of Barcelona. My quest was to try as much of it as possible. What better way than to go for tapas? These were some of the best.
Shop in style
You don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy shopping in Barcelona. (Although I’m sure you will find something you love if you’re like me!) The shops are a treat in themselves.
Shopping in Barcelona
Louis Vuitton
Logistics for a 2-day visit to Barcelona
Arriving at the airport in Barcelona, there are several means of transportation into the city. The article linked here describes several choices. I suggest taking a train from the airport terminal and coming to the Barcelona-Sants train station (Sants Estació) in the town center. You can board the train directly in front of Terminal 2 at the airport. If your flight arrives at Terminal 1, there is a free shuttle to Terminal 2. When you arrive at the downtown station, dozens of taxis can take you to your Barcelona destination. The bonus is that it’s the same station where you’ll take your train when you take off to France. You already know your way!
Santa Railway Station in Barcelona
Barcelona city tour
One of the first things I do when traveling, especially in a large city, is take a city bus tour. You can go about it in several ways, from a scheduled van or bus tour to a hop-on-off bus. I prefer the hop-on-off variety. Barcelona is such a big and varied city that some bus companies offer a one-day ticket with three routes. My hotel was in the middle of a central downtown area, within close walking distance to the sites I most wanted to see, so I chose the two-hour Red route — to the former Olympics Games site, the beaches, and the port of Barcelona. Next time I visit, I’ll see more.
Barcelona Bus Turistic Routes
Hostel Casa Gracia’s friendly reception
Where to stay in Barcelona
Depending upon the length of your visit to Barcelona and the Catalan area, there are many options for places to stay. I was thrilled with my choice in Barcelona – Hostel Casa Gracia Barcelona on this short visit. The hotel/hostel is on Passeig de Gràcia, in the center of a bustling business, tourist, and restaurant section. Except for the hop-on bus tour, I walked everywhere!
Trains to the South of France
Perpignan, Narbonne, Carcassonne, and Toulouse are some destinations you can visit along the way to France from Barcelona. Stops include Béziers, Adge, Sète, Montpellier, Nimes, Avignon, Aix en Provence, Marseille, Valence, Lyon, and París. Stops you might want to make in Spain are Girona and Figueras. Go by train!
Bon Voyage!
Categories: Around France, Blog, Chapter 1: The First Visit
Well I did make it to the Picasso museum, but darn, I missed so many of your recommendations. Judging by your fantastic photos, I must go back, not the least for all the architecture (and yes, the Gaudi) I missed (though the Sagra Familia held me spellbound. Thanks for two great Barcelona posts.
I’m heading back to Barcelona again next week… but just to the airport. Another visit is definitely needed… for us both! The Gaudi houses are a must see!
Barcelona is a wonderful city and you did a great job with this overview!
Thank you, Paula. I know you and Rich had a great time with the grands in Barcelona. We should catch a train and go down there again this summer. Can’t wait to see you!
I was last in Barcelona in 2015 (guess what … after 50 years!) and absolutely loved it too. I agree with all of your comments but am a little ticked that your photos are SO much better than mine! Beautiful post!
Isn’t it amazing how Barcelona has changed in 50 years — like we haven’t! I’m loving your photos of Antibes on FB. A little jealous, too! See you soon, I hope!
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I was in Barcelona over a year ago, in November. My one word of caution would be to avoid the summer. Three different friends who were all there at some time during the summer said it was awful. Very, very crowded and not enjoyable. I will say that November was perfect! No crowds at all, even at restaurants by the water. We stayed out of the down town area, up by the National Museum and it was perfect. But oh yes, indeed, Barcelona is a really wonderful city!!!
December was a great time to be in Barcelona, too. During the summer it’s much like the south of France — warm and busy with tourists. I can’t wait to explore the city and Catalan area more and more. Thanks for your advice!
Deborah Barcelona is truly a wonderful city to visit and explore. We were there with our grand kids for New Years last year and just had a wonderful time. the Picasso Museum is also a wonderful place to visit as is the port and its aquarium.
I missed the Picasso Museum and the aquarium but I’ll put them on my “to do” list for the next visit. It’s so close to us by train!
Fabulous photos Deb and lots of great info, thank you for sharing!
So glad it might be helpful. I loved it! Thanks for the note, Caroline.