Mediterranean Travel Series - Part 3
 |
| Barcelona - View from the National Art Museum of Catalonia |
After days of exploring Italy, Monaco, and the south of France, our Viking cruise arrived in Barcelona—a city where art, culture, and energy seem to radiate from every corner. We checked into the charming Hotel Roger de Llúria, our home base for the next few days, and set out to experience the best of this vibrant Catalan capital.
Day One: Montserrat’s Serenity & Gaudí’s Whimsy
Our Lady of Montserrat
We began our Barcelona adventure with a journey outside the city to the breathtaking mountaintop monastery of Montserrat. The winding drive and dramatic rock formations made the approach feel like entering another world.
At the monastery, the air was peaceful and cool, and the views stretched endlessly over the Catalonian landscape. Inside, we visited the famed Black Madonna, surrounded by golden light and hushed reverence. Sharing this spiritual and scenic experience with my parents made it even more meaningful.
Park Güell
From mountain peaks to Gaudí’s playful imagination, our next stop was Park Güell. With its mosaic-covered terraces, curving benches, and candy‑colored details, the park felt like stepping into a living piece of art. We wandered its twisting pathways, paused to take in sweeping views of the city, and admired the architect’s whimsical style.
It was the perfect contrast to Montserrat—a reminder of how diverse and dynamic the region truly is.
Day Two: Masterpieces & Markets in the Heart of Barcelona
Walking Las Ramblas
First, we made our way to Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s iconic pedestrian boulevard that’s usually known for its flower stalls, lively cafés, street performers, and nonstop energy. Unfortunately, this part of our trip turned out to be a letdown. Much of the area was under heavy construction, and the crowds made it difficult to enjoy what little there was to see. Instead of the vibrant atmosphere we had hoped for, we found clutter, noise, and more tourist traps than charm. It was disappointing, but we reminded ourselves that every trip has its imperfect moments—and the rest of Barcelona more than made up for it.
La Sagrada Família
No trip to Barcelona is complete without seeing La Sagrada Família, and walking up to it feels like approaching a cathedral carved from dreams. Its soaring towers, intricate facades, and dazzling interior are unlike any other church in the world.
Inside, colored light from the stained‑glass windows bathed the space in blues, greens, and ambers. Taking in Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, was one of the most memorable moments of the entire trip.
Day Three: A Tuk Tuk Adventure & A Musical Jewel
Tuk Tuk Tour of the City
For our final day, we hopped into a Tuk Tuk for a unique, open‑air tour of the city. It turned out to be a great way to see the city. Our guide was quite knowledgeable and shared unique history and views with us.
With the breeze in our faces and the city unfolding around us, we zipped through neighborhoods, along the waterfront, and past famous landmarks. It was a refreshing way to see Barcelona from a different perspective.
 |
| Casa de les Punxes |
 |
| Venetian Towers |
 |
| National Art Museum of Catalonia |
 |
| National Art Museum of Catalonia |
 |
| Olympic Stadium |
 |
| Olympic Stadium |
 |
| Columbus Monument |
 |
| Casa Milà |
 |
| Casa Batlló |
 |
| Casa Batlló |
 |
| Casa Amatller |
 |
| With our Tuk Tuk and Guide |
 |
| The Face of Barcelona |
 |
| Castle of the Three Dragons |
 |
| Castle of the Three Dragons |
 |
| Arc de Triomf |
Palau de la Música Catalana
Our last major stop was the stunning Palau de la Música Catalana, a modernist masterpiece filled with stained glass, ornate sculptures, and rich mosaics. The concert hall’s skylight—shaped like an inverted drop of sunlight—was absolutely breathtaking.
It was the perfect farewell to Barcelona: a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and the city’s deeply rooted artistic soul.
We ended our final day with dinner and dessert at Ginos Ristorante.
A Perfect Ending
Our days in Barcelona were the ideal ending to an unforgettable Mediterranean journey. From sacred mountaintops to Gaudí’s fantastical creations, from lively boulevards to elegant concert halls, the city welcomed us with beauty, energy, and warmth.
Traveling with my parents through Rome, across the Mediterranean, and finally into the heart of Catalonia gave this trip a richness I’ll carry with me. Barcelona wasn’t just our final stop—it was the perfect crescendo to our adventure.
I hope you have enjoyed seeing the Mediterranean through my camera lens...and if you are over the travel posts, don't worry I'll be back to regularly scheduled creative content soon!
