Parc Guell aka Gaudi Park, Barcelona, Spain

A part of the staircase leading to the park

One of my absolute favorite spots in Barcelona is the Parc Guell designed by Antoni Gaudi. Originally envisioned as a housing development for wealthy Catalans, it became a park when there was little interest in the housing.

Built on a hill, the centerpiece of the park is the magnificent staircase that leads to the park and gives spectacular views of the city.

On the day we went, the park was jammed with teenagers enjoying the beautiful weather. As we wandered the grounds of the park, we would often hear one of the teenage boys randomly shout "Happy Hour!" I have no idea if he knew what happy hour means, if he just liked the sound of the phrase, or if he was genuinely happy to be at the park on a sunny day. Whatever the reason, I still smile when I think about it.

Teenagers enjoying a day at the park

Unfortunately, many of the pictures I took at the park were lost. That's a shame because the structures designed by Gaudi are jaw dropping. The mammoth curved mosaic bench is particularly beautiful.

If you go: The park is on the northern edge of town, rather far from the center (1.3 miles from La Sagrada Familia) so your best bet is to take the bus. We walked, and it was a long walk. Then, you climb the massive staircase, then you walk around the park. Save your energy, take the bus. 

There is a small fee to enter the park. There's also the Gaudi Museum at the site. You will pay a separate admission for the museum.
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