We set off on the 25 hr sail from Menorca to Barcelona with a beautiful sunset at our backs, and finished with the sunrise lighting up the horizon. The lights of Barcelona ahead of us were absolutely spectacular, painting the perfect backdrop for the beginning of our next adventure.
Legend has it that Barcelona was founded by none other than the Greek hero Hercules. On one of his many expeditions, a storm struck, and while eight of his ships escaped unharmed, the ninth was lost at sea. Days later, Hercules discovered his crew safe and sound on a stunning coastline. Captivated by the beauty of the landscape, they decided to stay and founded a city they named “Barca Non,” meaning the “Ninth Ship.”
Once settled in and showered, we hit the city. Barcelona instantly charmed us — clean, vibrant, with jaw-dropping architecture and cuisine that hits the spot.
Day 1 Highlights:
- Arc de Triomf: The one in Barcelona, not Paris … A grand entrance to the city, with its intricate design.
- Palau de la Música Catalana: A stunning concert hall, designed in the Catalan modernista style with a colorful, ornate facade.
- Gothic Quarter: A maze of narrow, medieval streets, perfect for getting lost. We loved wondering its streets!
- Plaça Nova: A bustling square in the heart of the Gothic Quarter – parents beware of the clowns as you’ll need to have your purse ready when a balloon is thrust into your child’s hands!
- Catedral de Barcelona: An awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral with spires reaching for the sky.
- Roman Wall: Ancient remnants of the city’s Roman past.
- Bishop’s Bridge: An enchanting, almost fairy-tale-like structure – the street musician’s adding to the magic of the scence.
- Mercat de la Boquería: A lively market overflowing with fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. A must see!
- Mirador de Colom: A towering monument to Columbus (a special site for us prior Buckeyes from Columbus, OH!) with panoramic views.
- Parc de la Ciutadella: A lush park with a beautiful fountain and lots of green space to relax. The greenhouse reminded us of Hoggwart’s greenhouse.
Gothic Quarter
in Plaça Nova
Pablo Picasso
we found in the park
We finished the day off enjoying fantastic tapas and drinks at Perikete, a spot a fellow Tulanian and good friend Maddie Speicher highly recommended, and it did not disappoint!
