Barcelona is one of those cities that I keep coming back to—and for good reason. I’ve been here so many times that my trips usually revolve around socializing, shopping, and eating rather than sightseeing. This time, though, was different. Adam and I brought my parents along for their first visit to the city, so it turned into a more tourist-focused trip. We managed to fit in so much over the weekend, and it was wonderful seeing the city through their fresh eyes.

Vespa Tour

Adam and I kicked off the trip with a Vespa tour around Barcelona. It’s such a fun and dynamic way to experience the city. We cruised past the major Gaudi attractions, soaked in the views from The Bunker, zipped down to the beach, and had a scenic lunch on top of Montjuïc. There’s something exhilarating about cruising through the streets on a Vespa, taking in the city’s vibe while snapping some amazing photos along the way.

La Boqueria & Las Ramblas

No visit to Barcelona is complete without stopping by La Boqueria. Yes, it’s a tourist hotspot, but the vibrant market still delivers—whether you’re sampling fresh fruits, indulging in tapas, or grabbing a quick lunch at one of the bustling stalls.

We also wandered down Las Ramblas and explored the Gothic Quarter, strolling through its maze of narrow streets and browsing the eclectic shops. The combination of history, culture, and energy in this area is unmatched.

Park Güell

From the colorful mosaics to the whimsical architecture, it’s like stepping into a dream. We entered from the top of the park and worked our way down, making it seamless with my parents. Pro tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially if you’re visiting in August, and aim for the first tour of the day to beat the heat and crowds.

Sagrada Familia

Each time I visit the Sagrada Familia, I’m struck by its grandeur. Even with ongoing construction, it remains one of the most awe-inspiring buildings I’ve ever seen. The light streaming through the stained glass windows is simply magical. Be sure to book tickets far in advance; we learned the hard way and could only secure a late Sunday afternoon slot.

Picasso Museum

For art lovers, the Picasso Museum is a must. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Picasso’s earlier works and artistic evolution. The museum has free admission hours, so it’s worth checking their website for details to plan your visit.

Swimming and Sailing

We took both a daytime and a sunset sail during our trip. While we hoped to swim off the boat during the day, the sea was too choppy. The bright side? Perfect wind conditions made for an excellent sailing experience.

To make up for the missed swim, we headed to the beach next to the W Hotel after our daytime sail. The water was a perfect 81 degrees, and we enjoyed a leisurely lunch before taking a dip in the ocean.

Eating and Drinking

Barcelona’s food scene never disappoints. Highlights from this trip include:

De La Crem: Hands down the best ice cream we’ve had in the city. It’s located on a charming, quiet street and has outdoor tables, making it a perfect spot to relax.

Ziryab: A unique twist on tapas that we thoroughly enjoyed.

Plaza del Sol in Gràcia: We loved wandering around Gràcia, especially stopping at Plaza del Sol for drinks and tapas. Though we visited on a Sunday when most shops were closed, the area still felt vibrant. Tip: Go on a weekday if you want to explore the boutiques.

Summary

Barcelona never fails to deliver, whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fifteenth. This trip was particularly special because I got to share the city I love with my parents. If you’re planning a visit, be prepared to eat well, explore endlessly, and leave already dreaming of your next trip back.