Feel the Vibes of the Catalan Capital: 3 Days in Barcelona
Mies van der Rohe Pavilion – Where Modernism Began
After landing and checking in, I headed straight to one of my favorite places in the city: the Mies van der Rohe Pavilion. There’s something deeply calming about this clean-lined, marble-and-glass structure. Even though it’s small, the space breathes. It’s like stepping into a quiet poem about modernism.
Castell de Montjuïc – A Fortress with a View
From there, I made my way up Montjuïc Hill. The air was crisp but sunny, and the walk to Castell de Montjuïc was worth every step. The views from the top—Barcelona sprawling out toward the sea—were incredible. I stood there a while, just breathing in the warmth and quiet, grateful to be away from grey skies and heavy coats.
Arc de Triomf – Gateway to Barcelona’s Charm
The next morning, I took a slow walk through the city, starting at the Arc de Triomf. It’s such a charming spot—less imposing than the one in Paris, and surrounded by palm trees and street performers. I strolled down the promenade toward Parc de la Ciutadella, then grabbed a café con leche nearby and just people-watched for a while. No schedule, no pressure. That was the whole point of this trip.
Parc Güell – Gaudí’s Whimsical Wonderland
Later, I headed up to Parc Güell. I’ve been before, but Gaudí’s playful chaos always puts me in a good mood. The colors, the mosaics, the way the architecture dances with nature—it’s like being inside a fairytale drawn by someone slightly mad in the best way. I climbed to the top viewpoint and let the sun hit my face. November sun is underrated.
Barcelona Sants – Your Gateway Beyond
Time to venture beyond the city via Barcelona Sants, the city’s main train hub. While the station itself is utilitarian, it offers access to one of Catalonia’s most surreal destinations: Figueres. Hop on a high-speed train and in just under two hours, you’ll find yourself in the hometown of one of Spain’s most eccentric artists.
Figueres & the Salvador Dalí Museum – Surrealism in the Flesh
Figueres is the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, and the town proudly honors its most famous son with the Teatre-Museu Dalí—a museum designed by the artist himself. It’s a flamboyant, bizarre, and utterly captivating place where melting clocks, optical illusions, and dreamscapes fill every corner. A visit here feels like stepping into Dalí’s subconscious, with each room challenging your sense of logic and reality.
Basílica de la Sagrada Família – A Living Cathedral
Back in Barcelona, end your journey with a visit to the city’s most iconic landmark: the Basílica de la Sagrada Família. Still under construction after more than a century, Gaudí’s magnum opus is unlike any cathedral in the world. Its soaring towers, organic forms, and intricate facades seem to stretch toward heaven. Step inside to witness stained glass windows casting rainbow light across vaulted ceilings—a final, divine reminder that Barcelona is a city where art and life merge beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Three days of sunshine, seafood, and beautiful spaces gave me the reset I needed. I returned to Prague with a full stomach, a clearer head, and a warm heart. Barcelona in November is chill, soulful, and still buzzing with life. I’ll definitely be back—again.