Barcelona is known for its phenomenal food scene, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches. But it could be argued that what Barcelona does best is art and architecture. Inject some culture into your trip by adding these six sights to your itinerary. You will be sure to cultivate your artful eye and be inspired!
BARCELONA MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
Barcelona’s Museum of Contemporary Art, also know as MACBA, in the El Ravel neighborhood is a stunning work of architecture known for housing provocative exhibitions. Outside in Plaça de l´Àngel you can find street art on facades and skateboarders doing ollies. Inside, if you linger long enough, you can watch the museum transform as the incoming sunlight dances on the walls.
DESIGN MUSEUM OF BARCELONA
Off the beaten path is the Design Museum of Barcelona. Opened in 2008, this museum is now home to Barcelona’s Institute of Culture and hosts an array of design-centered exhibitions. The museum also maintains beautiful public spaces on all sides so be sure to pack a meal and lunch al fresco!
PICASSO MUSEUM
Tucked away in the Gothic Quarter is the Picasso Museum, a space dedicated to 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. While you’re in the neighborhood you can take in the exquisite gothic architecture including the beautiful townhouses and courtyard of the museum itself.
BARCELONA PAVILION
The Barcelona Pavilion is a stunning structure by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe that defined modernist architecture. You don’t have to be a minimalist to appreciate this serene and elegant space.
THE NATIONAL CATALAN MUSEUM OF ART
The National Catalan Museum of Art or MNAC in Montjuïc is home to massive collections spanning historical time periods from the Roman era to the 20th century. The museum is located atop Montjuïc hill; an excellent vantage point of the city and an exquisite place to watch the sunset. If you find yourself there for sunset stay a bit longer for the spectacular Magic Fountain show at the base of the museum steps!
THE WORKS OF GAUDI
Architect Antonio Gaudi and Barcelona go hand in hand. Some of the Gaudi’s greatest works are strewn about the city including Park Guell, Casa Batallo, La Pedrera, and the still under construction Sagrada Familia. His modernist works are known for being surreal, intricate and organic in design. It would be hard to see the city without one of them catching your eye so make sure that doesn’t happen by putting a few on the schedule!
By We Are Travel Girls Contributor Gina Stovall of SeeSooMuch.com
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Olivia says
Love this post!!!
We Are Travel Girls says
Glad you enjoyed reading this Olivia!