Iconic European Cities: Barcelona

This Barcelona church is one of the most-famous works by architect Antoni Gaudi. Construction started on the Gothic-style church in 1882 and still continues to this day. Climb up the towers of the Sagrada Família to enjoy a magnificent view over the city. Those afraid of heights can keep their feet safely on the ground and visit Gaudi's tomb, which is located in the chapel of the Virgin El Carmen.

In addition to the Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudi was also responsible for designing the unique apartment buildings Casa Mila and Casa Batllo. Casa Mila (pictured) in the Eixample district is considered one of the most impressive buildings of the Catalan Modernism movement. The architect did an extensive rennovation on Casa Batllo in 1904, turning it into a work of art. Tickets start at €25 ($28).

The Palau Nacional, a neo-baroque palace located atop the Montjuic hill, is home to the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. Holding more than 260,000 works of art, it's a museum not to be missed. Among its treasures is the most important collection of Catalan art from the 19th to 20th centuries, offering museum-goers an introduction to the artists of Catalonia.

Antoni Gaudi designed spectacular Park Güell, located in the neighborhood of Gracia and covering more than 17 hectares. It's divided into two parts. One is the monumental area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has Gaudi's famous lizard sculpture and colorful benches decorated with ceramic mosaics. The other area is a forested nature reserve, perfect for enjoying on a day out.

Catalan cuisine offers many delicacies for foodies to delight in. Be sure to try butifarra, a Catalan white sausage traditionally made from lean pork. And no trip is complete without a glass of cava, Catalonia's famous sparkling wine; its name taken from the Spanish word for "cave," aka wine cellar. The production of sparkling wine is subject to strict regulations, so quality is ensured. Salud!

A "granja" or milk bar refers to a type of cafe primarily serving sweets and dairy products. Located in the labyrinthine streets in the neighborhood of El Raval, Granja Viader is a traditional locale that offers plenty of Catalan specialties to snack on — including churros and a creamy hot drink made with milk and cocoa called cacaolat, which was invented in the 1930s.

The flea market at Mercat dels Encants has been in action since 1300, although the location has changed somewhat over the years. Vendors set up shop Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday on the Placa de les Glories selling all manner of goods, from antique furniture to vintage clothing. Be sure to get there in the morning for the best finds. You never know what you might discover!

Skip large touristic streets like La Rambla and opt for taking the city's many small alleys, which beg to be explored without any particular goal in mind. The Gothic Quarter, El Born and bohemian El Raval — also home to the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art — are our favorites to get lost in. Stop for tapas or a coffee as you discover quaint squares, authentic eateries and unique shops.

In the middle of the neighborhood of El Raval lies the former Benedictine monastery of Sant Pau del Camp, the oldest church in Barcelona. Most likely built at the end of the 9th century, it's a restored complex sure to inspire architecture lovers with its mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Moorish elements. The hustle and bustle of the city feels far away while strolling through its cloister.

The climb up the Turo de la Rovira hill is a bit strenuous, but definitely worthwhile. At the top, you'll find the ruins of the former anti-aircraft Bunkers del Carmel and plenty of places to rest your legs and enjoy the sweeping views over Barcelona. We recommend packing a small picnic and heading up in early evening to watch the sunset, as many locals do.