Two Days in Barcelona

📍 Barcelona · 👁 1055 reads

On October 17, 2013, I flew from Rome, Italy to Barcelona, the most romantic city in Spain.

First, I arrived at the pre-booked accommodation. The elevator in the old building was still a traditional mechanical one: you had to pull open the iron grille, open the elevator door, turn back to close the iron grille, then close the elevator door before the elevator could run. The elevator was very small, but its clanking sound felt like going back to the old times.

Right downstairs from the accommodation was a famous TAPAS restaurant. The two of us ordered many varieties along with red wine. By noon, we were already drinking until our faces were flushed, then we set off for the Sagrada Familia.

The Sagrada Familia is said to be completed only in 2026. Although not fully built, it doesn’t affect its beauty at all. Standing in the hall of the Sagrada Familia, sunlight pours through the colorful stained glass, spreading to every corner of the hall, soft and bright. Being inside feels like being in a kaleidoscope—very beautiful, an absolute visual delight.

Going back the same way, I arrived at Casa Milà. Casa Milà is the last private residence designed by Gaudí. Currently, six floors, the top floor, and the rooftop are open to visitors. The chimneys on the open terrace are very distinctive, each one like a small piece of art.

After exiting Casa Milà, not far away is Casa Batlló. This is definitely another unmissable wonderful place, also designed by Gaudí. It features a completely wave-like design with no sharp edges; every detail is rounded and aesthetically pleasing. There are Chinese audio guides available, so you can follow the introduction to tour.

In the evening, I strolled on the commercial street, tasting tapas and Barcelona's signature fruit wine. At first taste, it was very sweet, but it had a strong aftereffect. Soon, I felt a bit tipsy.

In the morning, I continued exploring Barcelona. This time I went to La Rambla in the city center. On the avenue, there is La Boqueria market, colorful and with carefully arranged ingredients. I bought a box of mixed fruit, fresh and juicy. There were other places to visit along La Rambla, though not famous, their interiors were also extremely exquisite and magnificent, giving a glimpse of the elegance of the original owners' lives.

Walking uphill to Parc de la Ciutadella. From here, you can see the Olympic Port and also gaze out at the Mediterranean Sea. The blue of the Mediterranean was serene and peaceful, yet powerful. We enjoyed the breeze on the castle. When we were there, we saw a few foreign tourists jumping around, having a great time by themselves, which was really funny. You always encounter amazing people and amazing things on the road—that's the charm of travel.

Descending from the castle, I headed towards the port. Sitting at the port, you could see all kinds of sailboats. Walking along the port, there was a grassy slope ahead. We rested there; many families were playing on the grass. We saw a father play-fighting with his son, a couple taking their baby out to bask in the sun, and a young couple repeatedly throwing a bottle for their child to run and fetch (their casual play style was something else). Nearby, a freelance artist was singing and playing guitar. When a song ended, everyone applauded to show appreciation. It all felt very harmonious.

Back on the main street, it was bustling with people. I bought macarons, ate Spanish seafood paella, ordered the finest cured ham, and had red wine—perfect.

In the evening, I booked a Spanish art show at a small tavern theater—a Flamenco dance performance. It combined live percussion music with passionate Spanish dancers stepping to every beat of the classical rhythms. The dancers performed with dazzling footwork, giving us a feast for the eyes and ears.

Spain is one of my favorite cities. Every building seems to have a story. Gaudí has brought endless vitality to the whole city. The entire city is like a fairy tale world, romantic and full of charming imagination.

I want to record my memories of the 18 countries and over 80 cities I've visited, one by one. I will recall these wonderful experiences and share them with you as detailed as possible. Please support me! :)

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