Barcelona is definitely one of the cities I enjoyed the most during our European summer trip. For some reason, it felt closer to home. I love that there is actually a beach (Barceloneta) amidst the city! I guess I am really an island girl at heart. Another reason why I enjoyed Barcelona so much is because the gastronomy there is just AMAZING. We were having Paella and Sangria every.single.day!!! In addition to all of that, there are so much picturesque sites to see there! The architecture, especially by Gaudi, is beyond amazing! There are just so many things to love about Barcelona!
We were worried when we arrived because the airline left our baggage in Paris, but we did not let that dampen our traveling spirits! When we arrived at our hotel, we asked the concierge to lead us to a good place for lunch, and he suggested this restaurant called 7portes! They serve really delicious Paella!! Look at our table – my husband and I had one pallera each, probably good for 4-6 people! lol!
lunch at 7portes
Winner Paella!!!
After having a feast, we decided to walk around and explore. The summer vibe here is so fun and carefree!
The next day we booked a segway tour from viator.com. Segway tour is a great way to explore the city! It is easy and fun to ride. Also, you are less tired because you get to reach farther places as compared to exploring on foot!
Segway tour with Leslie and her husband, lovely couple from USA.
My Christopher Columbus and navigator
Behind me is a street art replica of one of Picasso’s early works entitled “The girls of Avignon.” This area is the actual place where Picasso stayed and painted during his stay in Barcelona when he was 14 years old. Happy we got to visit the Picasso Museum here also!
Barcelona segway tour with Diego! We experienced a brief history of Barcelona and saw old roman walls and sites dating back to hundreds of years ago.
After our fun segway tour, we ate at El Ray De La Gamba! We really enjoyed eating here!!!
Seafood Paella
Seafood Platter
Oh Barcelona cuisine, I want to eat you everyday!!! haha!
The next day, our Filipino tour guide residing in Barcelona took us to Tibidabo – there is a church and small amusement park in that mountain. We climbed to the top of the sacred heart church and reached the highest point of Barcelona. What a fantastic view from the top!
What a beauty!!!
This was taken before climbing to the top. In the next photo, we will be near Jesus at the top!
How amazing it is to be up here! God is awesome!
I love these pretty coloured tiles inside the church! Remember to thank God for your blessings and to make 3 wishes when you enter a church for the very first time!
The view from the top! Beautiful!
Experiencing all of this with my life partner!
After that, we went to Park Guell, one of Antoni Gaudi’s works here. 
A picture with Gaudi’s house and also the view of Barcelona behind us.
The following day, being the tropical dwellers that we are, we decided to spend some time at the beach.
Barceloneta – beach by the city!
After chilling at the beach, our tour guide led us to Sagrada Familia. It is the most beautiful church I have ever seen. Construction started in 1882, and is projected to be finished by 2026. Even if it is still unfinished, it is already a UNESCO world heritage site.
Remember to look up: this is the ceiling design of Sagrada Familia by architect Antoni Gaudi. It is inspired by trees and nature.
The exterior of the church has intricate details and symbolisms, while the interior is very light, serene, and peaceful!
The next morning, we started our day by ordering churros at Granja M Viader. It is an old school cafe established in 1870. Aside from the churros, the cafe is also famous for their Cacaolat, hot chocolate, and other pasties. It is tucked in an alley near the La Boqueria market.
Classic Catalan Xurros! Delicioso!
I wiped out the churros in the car while we were on our way to the beautiful Montserrat! It is a Benedictine monk mountain retreat with breathtaking views. Visiting this place is one of the highlights of our Barcelona trip. We got to pray, reflect, and enjoy the picturesque mountain views in Barcelona.
The basilica at Montserrat.
After visiting the basilica, we decided to walk to the Santa Cova Holy Grotto, the holy place where the image of the Virgin Mary was discovered.
On our way to the Santa Cova
Enjoying the breathtaking mountain view while walking to the holy grotto at Montserrat.
While walking to the holy grotto, one will see sculptures of the 15 mysteries of the rosary. I liked this one the most – resurrection.
We finally reached the Holy Grotto! It is a privilege to be able to visit this holy place.
The Lady of Montserrat
Some people have offered their personal belongings such as photos, wedding dresses, letters, and helmets here, perhaps as thank you gifts for answered prayers and miracles.
We would not have reached as many beautiful places here without Emil Maravillas of LimeBuns Adventure Travel. You may contact him at info@limebunsadventure.com if you need a tour guide in Barcelona.
We ended our trip by paying a courtesy call on the Philippine Honorary Consul General in Barcelona, Jordi Puig.
What an incredible experience visiting Barcelona! It is a place I can see myself living.. i mean, eating in, everyday. lol! But seriously, it was a real beauty! See you next time! Adios!!!
xoxo
