Explore Barcelona: Top 10 Activities Not to be Missed

Step out of the classroom and into a world of possibility. GBSB combines the pleasure of living by the seaside in a world-class city with studying in English at a top notch international university. Take time to kick back with your friends, explore the sights and enjoy your time at GBSB to the fullest.

Located along the stunning Mediterranean, Barcelona is a city that has it all. While studying at GBSB Global Business School take advantage of the vibrant culture that makes this city one of the most visited destinations in the whole of Europe.

Step out of the classroom and into a world of possibility. GBSB Global Business School in Barcelona combines the pleasure of living by the seaside in a world-class city with studying in English at an international business school that guarantees rigorous undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Life is not all work and no play. Take time to kick back with your friends, explore the sights and enjoy your time to the fullest.

1. Off the Beaten Path: El Born & El Gotico

El Born and El Gotico host some of the oldest and most beautiful streets in Spain and in all of Europe. A labyrinth of tiny passages and unique alleyways, a treasure-trove to be explored. Discover quaint cafes only the locals or the "in-the-know" expats frequent. Wander in and out of little artist studios, and stumble on Roman ruins. These charming barrios are a little dirty and somewhat smelly, but don't let that deter you. Whether you're new to the city or a seasoned veteran, canvassing these rustic ancient streets will turn into a regular pastime, if it not already is.

Grab a map, and check out these favorites while you wander: Indulge your taste buds, and sit down for some Vietnamese Street Food at Mosquito (Carrer dels Carders, 46). Sip a glass of wine in the quiet, yet very historic Placa de Sant Felip Nepal. Queue up for a cup of some of Barcelona's best coffee at El Magnifico (Carrer de l'Argenteria, 64).

Barcelona beach

2. Hit the Beach: Sun, Sand & Sangria

Pack your beach bag and call your friends. Take advantage of the warm sun and tranquil water. Barcelona is one of Europe's greatest beach escapes. Stop by any one of an assortment of chiringuitos (beach bars) for a bit of pica pica or slip on your board shorts or bikini and take a swim. Feeling sporty? There are volleyball nets and an open air gym to satisfy the fitness fans wanting to break a sweat and get a bit physical.

Where we suggest to catch some rays (if you can find a spot): Barcelona beaches are very popular among tourists, locals and pickpocketers, so watch your things! Barceloneta is the most frequented of all the beaches along the city's coastline. If you want to get away from the crowd, or at least have a little more space to spread your wings, walk a bit further, and you will find Nova Icaria and Bogatell beaches, a bit safer and a lot cleaner.

3. Reach for the Stars: Roof Top Terraces

Head out for a sophisticated "night out on the town". Take in the lights and glamour of the city on any one of a variety of hotel rooftops offering a place to sit back, relax and wind down from a hard day hitting the books.

Take the elevator up to these top terraces: Hilton Diagonal Mar (Passeig del Taulat, 262-264), Hotel W (Plaça de la Rosa dels Vents, 1), Hotel 1898 Terrace La Isabela (La Rambla 109) and Gran Hotel La Florida (Ctra Vallvidrera al Tibidabo 83-93).

Barcelona Casa Mila

4. Art Walk: Gaudi, Miro, Picasso and So Much More

A creative city, full of places to see. From the fine arts to modernist wonders, Barcelona showcases the works of some of the world's most notable artists and architects to have ever graced this planet. Check out the websites before heading out to satisfy your passion for the arts. Some museums offer free days, special offers or ticket sales online.

Works of creative genius that help define Barcelona: Casa Batlló (43 Passeig de Gràcia), Casa Milà (92 Passeig de Gràcia), Fundacio Joan Miro Museum (Parc de Montjuïc, s/n), MNAC - Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n)

5. Breathtaking Views

If you want to touch the clouds and take in some of the most spectacular views of the city, these destinations are sure to excite the eyes. Each landmark has its own unique character. You chose, which is your favorite?

Take a walk around Montjuïc, otherwise known as "the Mountain of the Jews," and home to Castillo de Montjuïc, an old military fortress dating back to 1640. Visit the facilities constructed for the Olympics Barcelona hosted in 1992 or just embrace the natural beauty that is so prevalent on what some would consider more of a hill, rather than a full fledge mountain.

At 512 meters, Tibidabo (Plaça del Tibidabo, 3-4) is the highest mountain in the Sierra de Collserola. With phenomenal views of the city, it also maintains an amusement park, opened in 1868, with 25 rides, restaurants and picnic areas.

Built during the Spanish Civil War as a defense from Fascist air raids, the Bunkers del Carmel have a magnificent viewpoint set on the 'Turó de la Rovira'. This site Belongs to the heritage of the city, one of the destinations attributed to the Barcelona History Museum (MUHBA).

Barcelona Parc Güell

6. Picnic in The Park

Pack your basket with an assortment of local meats and cheeses, and head to the park. Take a stroll under the Arc de Triomf down to Parc Ciutadella, Barcelona's most popular hangout or head up to Gaudi's Parc Güell for a tranquil stroll through a very lush landscape, beautifully manicured. If you want a view at Gaudi's renown, undulating bench covered with vibrant colored, tile-shard mosaic planned by Josep M. Jujol, you'll have to buy a ticket. Hordes of tourist flock to this destination every year to catch a glimpse at the iconic lizard.

Barcelona Arc de Triomf

Other great escapes are Parc Laberint, Jardines del Palacio de Pedralbes and Parc de Cervantes.

7. Tantalizing Tapas

Go for it, live vicariously through your belly. Indulge in the flavors and aromas of Barcelona and the Catalan region as a whole. There's no doubt you will be impressed. Stop by LLamber, Carrer de la Fusina 5, for a selection of modern tapas just steps away from the Mercat del Born, once a public market, is now one of Barcelona's most important buildings housing archeological ruins from the times of the Romans. Fancying something more traditional? Try El Xampanyet, Carrer de Montcada, 22, named after the homemade sparkling wine that they serve! One of our all-time favorites based on quality, price and service is Cerveseria Catalana, Carrer de Mallorca, 236. You know the food is good when there is always a wait out the door!

8. Put Your Game Face On: Support FC Barcelona

Calling all sports fans! Dress in your red and blue, and head to Camp Nou. No Barcelona experience will be complete without a few cheers from the crowd for one of the world's top football teams.

Check for tickets and more information at www.fcbarcelona.com.

9. Do You Believe in Magic?

Check out the lights and sounds at the Fuente Mágica de Montjuic, Plaça de Carles Buïgas, 1. The fountains first performance was on May 19, 1929 during the Great Universal Exhibition and still draws visitors, memorizing them with an orchestrated show, like no other in town. Performance times change based on the season. For the most up-to-date information, check out their website, https://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/albums-en/magic-fountains-montjuic.

Barcelona Montserrat

10. Religious Wonders

Quiet time and peaceful reflection are often overlooked. Your studies are rigorous and your social life is buzzing, but it is important to take a time out, before you hit burn out, and what better way to take a breath then to check out one of these architectural wonders. You don't have to be religious to appreciate these magnificent structures. Just enter and leave all your stress and worries at the door.

Basílica de la Sagrada Família, 401 Carrer Mallorca
The Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, is a large Roman Catholic church in Barcelona, Spain, designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926).

Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar, 6 Carrer Sombrerers
Santa Maria del Mar is an impressive gothic church that was built between 1329 and 1383 at the height of Catalonia's maritime and mercantile preeminence.

Plus, Plus…The Great Escape: Day Tripping

Don't forget Barcelona is only a part of the greater region of Catalonia. There are many sights to see and places to go during your short time with us, and we want you to get the most out of your experience.

Venture out of town and wander the Old Quartier, also known as Barri Vell in Girona. Known for its medieval architecture, the Roman remains of the Força Vella fortress and picturesque gardens. A single day may not be enough to take in the splendor of this city that was a site for the filming of the "Game of Thrones".

Further afield, journey up the coast to Cadaques and find Portlligat Museum-House, Salvador Dali's home, nestled next to the Mediterranean. Wanting to see more of his works, head inland to Figueres, Dali's hometown and spend a few hours contemplating his unique works at the Dalí Theatre and Museum. Dali is actually buried in the crypt just below the stage.

Your education doesn't end when you leave the classroom. Barcelona is full of exciting places to see and events to take part in. Your time at GBSB Global Business School Barcelona is limited, and we want you to take away a well-rounded experience, from engaging in your rigorous studies to exploring the Catalan region, your life will be shaped by this moment.

GBSB Global Business School is a fully accredited private educational institution in Barcelona, Spain that teaches business in English and is dedicated to preparing students for the careers of the global economy. Our degrees in the fields of Business, International Management, Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship and Operations Management prepare students to operate with ease across borders and cultures – in an environment that prizes diversity and the ability to bring a worldwide perspective to the study of international business. GBSB Global Business School in Barcelona is an excellent place for students who are looking for high-quality, innovative business degrees in Europe in the heart of a trendy metropolis offering both tradition and modernization.

By Emily Dawn Szajda, GBSB Global Business School

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