Barcelona struck us as an architectural awe, exemplified by Gaudí’s Park Güell, Sagrada Família, and Casa Batllo. The Gothic Quarter engulfed us within narrow streets consisting of hidden gems, cafés, and artisan shops. The vibrant atmosphere of Las Ramblas surrounded us with street performers, markets, and flagship stores. We were most impressed by the ‘Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya’, a more obscure and underrated tourist attraction with priceless art collections and views of Barcelona.
In Madrid, we marveled at the vast grounds and interior of the Royal Palace of Madrid, decked with endless rooms of excessive wealth. The Royal Collections Gallery and Museo Nactional del Prado presented masterful art by the likes of Caravaggio, Goya, Raphael, Velázquez, and Bosch. The local tapas scene was a highlight; we indulged in patatas bravas and paella at local taverns.
Granada was enchanting, highlighted by our visit to the Alhambra; remarkable due to its intricate, Arabic design and architecture. The interiors feature stunning tile work, stucco carvings, and beautifully arched doorways – all reflecting the sophistication and uniquity of Islamic art.
Finally, Sevilla captured our hearts with its flamenco culture and stunning Plaza de España. The warmth of the people and the delicious food made every moment special.
Beside exploring: Our rooftop pools in Seville and Granada helped compensate for the 42 degree heat. We watched films, met new people, travelled by e-scooters, and ate a lot of ice cream. We burnt off the calories with our Viva Gym memberships at gym chains across Spain, where we benched new PRs!
