We’re back with another edition to our ‘Things to Do in… ‘ posts, this time; Things to Do in Barcelona.
With our personal digital nomad family dynamic all of us are fairly spread out location wise. So we don’t actually all see each other too often. Therefore, we always try and pin each other down twice a year (usually Christmas, and some point in the Summer) to have spend time together. One of Dad’s recent ideas was to get an Airbnb somewhere for 10 days or so, and then have everyone fly in when they can. Since all of our schedules are pretty manic, it seemed to fit.
So our first attempt was this Summer, last week in fact, in Barcelona. Clearly we still haven’t quite mastered it as Lara was unable to fly over, and my flights were not too compatible with Sam & Peter’s. But, we’re still learning and we’ll get there eventually!
Things to Do in Barcelona
Anyway, the Airbnb Dad picked was actually in Badalona – a small harbour town(?), maybe 15-20 minutes outside of Barcelona. It is a great place to stay if you’re heading to Barcelona for a longer period of time, and don’t want to spend all of your time in the Barcelona itself. Seeing as we were there in the middle of a European heatwave summer, it was pretty nice to be steps away from the beach.
Badalona
In Badalona itself, there are plenty of bars and restaurants all the way up the beach and around the harbour. Enough for you to probably decide on one yourself. However, Peter’s favourites were; Wayru and Karumba.
One of Dad’s favourite restaurants was an Argentinian, Baires – so with checking out if you’re heading to Badalona!
The beach is pretty long so, unless its a national holiday, you’re almost guaranteed to find a spot to set up camp at.
Speaking of the beach, there’s a supermarket close by so picnics on the beach are another great thing to do – and super easy!
If you head to the area of the beach nearest the Badalona train station, there’s also a number of water sports based activities places. I went out and did some kayaking which was delightful! I was meant to go paddleboarding with the sea was a bit choppy, unfortunately.
Barcelona
In Barcelona itself, my number one recommendation would just be to amble around. Have a wander, see what there is. I find it’s the best way to explore the city and find things and places you otherwise wouldn’t.
That being said, there’s no way Dad would’ve let us do a Euro city break without getting on one of the double decker tour buses. As kids we used to love them, as pre-teens/teenagers not so much, but now I think we can all appreciate them a bit more. They’re actually pretty good for getting around the city, especially if you have no set plans on what to do, and limited time. As well, you get to find out all the facts – it’s a win win.
I 1000% would recommend going to the Sagrada Familia. Obviously its still not finished, so the cranes are a bit of an eye sore, but even still, it is pretty epic. I was pretty taken a back when I first walked in, partly because I had no idea what to expect, but also the building is just insane. PLUS, the money from your tickets goes towards the funding for the build. So, its nice to know you’ve put a little something towards this epic building.
One thing I am truly gutted about, was not being able to go to Park Güell. As a result, I think I’ll be heading back to Barcelona fairly soon. We went when we were younger, but I don’t remember much. I have it on good authority from Dad, siblings and friends, that is an absolute must if you’re in Barcelona.
Honestly, there’s so much to do in Barcelona. Even Dad says that every time he goes back to Barcelona he finds more and more things to do.
This is why I would say, if you have the time, to just wander around.
HOWEVER.
One place you, absolutely, must go to is El Nacional. It’s essentially a food court I guess you could say, but it’s a super nice one. The interiors are stunning, and the food is incredible. There’s about 4 restaurants; one tapas, one steak etc. – and a couple of bars too. It’s not too loud, despite all being open plan, and it’s just a good atmosphere.
It’s also very central to Barcelona, about 5 minuets from Catalunya Square.
If you’ve been to Barcelona & have any more recommendations, please let us know! We’d love to know!
If you missed our last post, Lara was discussing work environments, especially as digital nomads, and how they can effect you. Be sure to go and take a look!
Thank you for taking the time to read & I hope you have an amazing day!
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