My three days in Barcelona, Spain started near La Ramblas as I witnessed a crime in progress. No traveler is really prepared for such things. Even when you are aware of the risk you will face while travelling in foreign countries, you always think it would never happened to you.  After such an experience, somehow I am still able to develop an adoration toward Barcelona. There is something endearing about this city. If every city has its own personality, then Barcelona’s would be lively and warm. Not to mention that almost every time   you look around you can spot Gaudi Architecture. So if you are into architecture, beautiful landscape, food, and history, Barcelona is a place to be. Just keep in mind to hold you bag a little tighter.

Did I mention that Barcelona is absolutely stunning? At the same time it is also very diverse. It offers a little bit of everything. So whatever it is your thing, you surely can find it in Barcelona. If you have three days in Barcelona, Spain to spend, here is a guide on how to maximize your time and experience in Barcelona.

• Pick a hotel/ accommodation by the sea. Preferably within a walking distance so you can walk to the beach from your hotel. Even during early fall season, Barcelona is warm enough to visit the beach. If you are thinking about getting around the city by the subway/metro, then pick the one by metro station. Even after the first night incident, surprisingly the metro is very safe. Tips to save money with metro: buy the 10 trips ticket instead of the 3 days ticket. Since you only have three days in Barcelona, Spain, the 10 trips ticket will take you to all the places you want to visit.
  

  Preferably with this kind of view

• Take a cable car ride to Montjuic castle

You can drive to Montjuic castle or walk up the hill. But you will miss the sweeping view of Barcelona from the cable car. Surely this is the most fun way to visit Montjuic castle. You can buy one way or return ticket for cable car ride. The beautiful view from a cable car is one of my favorite things during my three days in Barcelona, Spain. For a cable car ticket, click this link.

cable car

• Explore Montjuic castle

Montjuic castle is located on the top of the hill. You can explore its beautiful ground and inside the castle. From here, you can also see Barcelona port.

Montjuic catsle

Port of Barcelona

• Try tapas as many as you want

You are in Spain after all. The best place to try tapas. My favorite gastropub is La Taverna De Barcelona by Placa De Catalunya. Let me tell you, the tapas is to die for. That how good it is. Tapas and Paella are all I ate in my three days in Barcelona, Spain.

• Climb to the top of Parc Guell and admire Gaudi Architecture

Parc Guell is packed with beautiful, unique and highly individualized design of Gaudi’s works.  Antoni Gaudi was a practitioner of Catalan Modernism and one of the most famous Spanish Architects. If you have strong affinity toward Catalan Modernism, you should also see other Gaudi’s buildings such as  Casa Mila and Casa Batllo in Barcelona.

Gaudi Architecture

• Pay a visit to Sagrada Familia

This probably the most well- known building in Barcelona. This iconic landmark is a signature of Gaudi Architecture, sitting right across the park. You can take a lift to the top of the tower to have a panoramic experience.

Sagrada Familia

• Get lost in the Gothic Quarter

I did get lost here unintentionally. Between the crowd of protestors (Catalans are yearning for independence) and recovering from jet-lag, i got lost and ended up in the cafe. Finally found my way out to check out the Gothic Quarter.

Gothic Quarter

• Stroll along la Ramblas

It is such a treat to stroll along La Rambas especially at night. The place seems more lively at night. While the place can be packed sometimes, it is worth an experience.

La ramblas

• Check Arc de Triomf

There are many famous arches in the world such as Washington Square Arch in New York City or Arc de Triompe in Paris. Just like those two, this one is worth the trip. It was built as gateway to 1888 Barcelona World Fair.

• Explore Parc de la Ciutadel

This park is sitting right across Arc de Triomf. You can hit these two spots on the same day. The sculptures, the water fountain and well manicured lawn are treat to your eyes.

• Visit Placa de Catalunya

This is the center of Barcelona. There are tons of things to do around here, from people watching, shopping, trying food at the gastropub, and admiring the sculptures and water fountain.

Last but not least, keep an eye on your belonging especially your wallet and ID. While Barcelona   is unarguably a stunning city, just like many other big cities in this world, thieves are lurking around and ready to prey on unsuspecting tourists/travelers or even residents of Barcelona. There’s no discrimination when it comes to crimes. As I actually witnessed a thief in action on my first night in Barcelona. A young thief about 15 years old was lurking around my airport shuttle and trying to grab a driver’s wallet. Luckily my loud voice deterred him since I was screaming on the top of my lung out of shocked. All in all I still adore Barcelona. Hey, what’s an adventure without a little mishap?

If you want to explore other part of Spain that offer stunning view of beaches, check Mallorca.