Magic Barcelona spots

by Harriet Freeman
(Barcelona)

Barcelona is famous for Gaudi's architecture, nice beaches, the 92' Olympic Games and, of course, FC Barcelona. However, there is a less famous place in Barcelona, but which is magic and one of my favorites. Have you ever heard of the magic mountain of Montjuic?

At the foot of this green hill, you can find Plaza Espanya. It is there where the main local, national and international trade fairs and congresses, such as the Mobile World Congress, take place. But the best of this area is the Magic Fountain.

At the weekends, the Magic Fountain of Montjuic wakes up and performs a magnificent show. It's a great performance which combines light, music and water. It is impossible not to make a stop there and take pictures of such a beautiful show.

Another Barcelona attraction you are going to love in Montjuic is the National Museum of Art of Catalonia, MNAC. You will recognize it immediately at the back of the fountain. The splendor of this magnificent palace does not go unnoticed!

If you are adventurous enough to go on walking up, your bravery and effort will be rewarded when you get to the Poble Espanyol and enter this wonderful village recreating the different regions of Spain with their typical architecture, food, drinks and shows.

Another magic spot of Barcelona is the neighborhood of Gràcia. Getting into this quarter is great! I like wandering around and getting lost in its streets. You can discover all kinds of little shops selling any type of goods: from crafts cards to typical Catalan sausages.

Gràcia is also a great area for nighthawks. Along its narrow streets there are cozy, little bars where you can have a drink and dance at the music played by amateur djs. You can go from one bar to the other and just pay for what you drink. Also, youngsters meet in the squares of the neighborhood and have their own party in the street.

The best time to visit Gràcia, though, is in mid-August when the Festa Major takes place. The streets of Gràcia are decorated by the neighbors and turned into impressive thematic streets. There are prices for the most original ones. It is a week full of activities, music, contests and fun for all ages!

So, if you ever come to visit Barcelona, you must get to my two magic spots. You won't be disappointed! Also, you will have the chance to stay in cozy, cheap Barcelona apartments in these areas with all the comfort and privacy you need.