Sunday 13 August 2017

Barcelona

I recently went to Barcelona for the first time, and I have to say it is an amazing city. My two friends who I went with have both been before, so it was great as they had a whereabouts as to where everything is. We did so much whilst we were there I have had to make a list so that I don't forget anything. Our hotel was called The Moderno, it was a three star hotel and I have to say it was in the perfect location. It was situated half way up La Rambla, which is where a lot of shops and eateries are. We all said that we would recommend the hotel to friends and family. The hotel staff were very accommodating and gave us lots of useful information about the city and transport.

The transport links within Barcelona are fantastic. The hotel receptionist told us all about the different transport services available. There is a large underground system, and we had a stop situated across the road from our hotel. It takes you across the 5 zones of the city, and is easy to use once you get the hang of it. I bought a fabulous mini guidebook before I went which contained an underground map, which was great as we could plan each days journeys before setting out. They also have a great bus service all around the city. Heads up, if you are staying on La Rambla are heading to the beach, the number 59 service takes you straight there. When when first arrived at the airport in Barcelona we got the train from the airport into the centre of the city, and then an underground to our hotel. The hotel receptionist also told us that you are able to buy a ticket called a T-10 which you can use ten times on all public transport for 10 euro. This is such a great buy, and a little tip is that more than one of you are able to use one ticket. We would put it through the barrier and then pass it back, this means that if you are a family you can all use the same ticket. We bought four T-10 tickets between us during our four day trip.

There is so much to see and do, and if it is your first time visiting then it is definitely great to try and plan your visit.

We went to the Barcelona Pavilion which is famous for its fabulous architecture and fountains. This was such an incredible view as you walk up the road to get to the fountains. Heads up, if you are heading here the fountains come on at 11am as we got there just before and we had to wait for them to come on! Once at the top where the waterfall is placed, you can look out across Barcelona and it is such a great view.






Before visiting Park Guell I did not know very much about it at all. I am so glad I visited as Gaudi's work is exceptional. The colours and mosaics which he used within the park are outstanding. We booked tickets before we went as they are super busy, it costs seven euros and it is definitely a must see attraction.



On the last day, we wanted to ensure that we visited Sagardia Famila. It is one of the main attractions in the city and it is definitely worth a visit. They are constantly working on this building and you can see that as there was building work going on. However, this has been going on for hundreds of years as they are trying to finish it in it's original ornate style. It was so beautiful to look at, and I was actually surprised by the size of it, it is huge. You can go inside but it costs nearly 30 euro and I was able to take everything in by just standing outside and staring at all of its glory.



I love going to the zoo, and Barcelona Zoo did not disappoint. We thought as we went on a Saturday it would be super busy, but to our surprise it was half empty. They had all of the big animals which you expect to see including a dolphin arena. I thought the zoo was spread out nicely and we spent three hours in the zoo looking around. You can also book your tickets in advance for this online, which was very easy to do.

Depending on where you are staying it is definitely worth a trip to La Rambla which is where we was staying. It is easy to find and contains lots of your favourite shops and eateries. The Gothic Quarter is also worth a visit, we spent a lot of time eating and drinking in this area as it has a lot of choice.


The beach was also really lovely. What made this such a great trip was that we had the best of both. We were able to see the sights but also go the beach in the afternoon to relax and top up our tans. The beach was very busy with both locals and tourists. The view was stunning and the beach was well maintained. Overall, I had a fantastic time in Barcelona and since coming home I have highly recommended visiting to all of my friends and family.

I have also put up a post this week all about my food recommendations whilst in Barcelona. I ate a lot, and I have a day to day guide of the best places which I would recommend.

Lucy
xoxo
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