Barcelona, Girona & Figueres Spain
Travel Day One - 14 April 2024 - Leaving Nashville 🛬
I left Nashville at 1:28 PM and landed at Dulles at 4:10 PM. After landing, I accidentally headed the wrong way down the concourse towards the D gates. Realizing my mistake, I turned around and walked in the opposite direction until I found a water bottle refill station. After filling up my bottle, I made my way to gate C19. I waited there until about 5:20 PM when the boarding process began. Soon after, we were on our way to Barcelona.
Day One - 15 April - Barcelona - Arrival
I landed in Barcelona at 8:10 AM and smoothly navigated through passport control before hopping on the Aerobus headed for Plaça de Espanya. I checked into the Ofelias Hotel early, and since my room was almost ready, I waited for my room to be ready.
Once I settled in, I planned the day's adventures and headed to the Plaça de Espanya Metro Station. I decided to buy the T-Usual Metro Card instead of the Hola Barcelona card, since the latter is only valid for 72 hours and I would be returning to Barcelona next week.
My first stop was the bustling Plaça de Catalunya. From there, I wandered through the Gothic Quarter, soaking in its historic charm. I explored notable sites including El Pont de Bisbe, Plaça de Sant Jaume, the Monument als Castellers, the Jewish Quarter, the Cathedral of Barcelona, and the Palau de la Música Catalana. While "The World Comes to Life With Each Kiss" proved too crowded for comfort, the rest of the quarter was a delight.
Later, I took the Metro to Sant Pau Art Nouveau, a stunning example of modernist architecture by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, who also designed the Palau de la Música Catalana. After marveling at the art nouveau elements of the former hospital, I returned to the hotel.
Dinner plans were thwarted when the restaurant I had in mind had closed or relocated. Instead, I discovered a cozy café called Sandwichez nearby, where I enjoyed a tasty sandwich and a refreshing frozen lemon smoothie—a welcome meal after a long day of exploration. Back in my room, I unwound with some snacks before calling it a night.
Day Two - 16 April - Barcelona - Sagrada Familia
This morning, I started my day with breakfast in the hotel dining area before heading to the Sagrada Familia for my 9:30 AM visit. The basilica is just as breathtaking inside as it is outside, with only one or two towers remaining incomplete. After exploring, I stopped by the gift shop, then walked over to the nearby Sagrada Bistro for lunch. I enjoyed a creamy mushroom dish with salad; it was decent.
Post-lunch, I returned to the Sagrada Familia and strolled through the parks in front of and behind the basilica, taking the opportunity to snap more photos. Next on my itinerary was Casa Milà-La Pedrera. The architecture and rooftop terrace were incredible, and I also browsed through its gift shop. I then indulged in a small, albeit overpriced, two-scoop ice cream at the café attached to Casa Milà.
My final stop of the day was Casa Batlló. I explored the casa’s rooms and rooftop terrace, taking in the unique designs and intricate details. Afterward, I visited its gift shop before catching the metro back to the hotel, reflecting on a day well spent amid Barcelona's architectural marvels.
Day Three - 17 April - Barcelona - Park Güell
Like the previous day, I started my morning with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before heading out. My first stop was Park Güell, accessible via the metro. This remarkable park, originally intended to be a residential neighborhood envisioned by Gaudi, now stands as a stunning testament to his architectural genius. The park’s open spaces and the Hypostyle Room, with its breathtaking ceiling and column work, were particularly captivating.
After soaking in the sights at Park Güell, I strolled down to the Lesseps metro station. I paused for a moment, sitting on a park bench to plan out my lunch. My choice? Bodega Quimet, where I indulged in some delicious tapas and a tortilla dessert—both perfectly complementing the bodega's vibrant atmosphere.
Later, feeling nostalgic, I revisited Casa Batlló to pick up a magnet from the gift shop I had spotted but didn't buy the day before. With my new souvenir in hand, I then proceeded to the Picasso Museum. It was still a bit early for my scheduled visit, so I took the opportunity to explore the surrounding neighborhood. The museum itself was a treasure trove, showcasing an impressive array of Picasso’s works, including his remarkable ceramics.
My day concluded with a visit to the Joan Miró Foundation art gallery on Montjuïc, after which I returned to my hotel. For dinner, I opted for something simple yet satisfying—a Margherita pizza at a nearby pizzeria, a pleasant walk from the hotel rather than a longer metro journey. The day was a delightful blend of art, architecture, and culinary delights.
Day Four - 18 April - Girona
I checked out of the Ofelias Hotel and navigated my way through the underground labyrinth to catch the L3 metro line to the Sants Train Station. Once there, I paused to gather my bearings before heading to the Renfe AVE train area, passing through security and waiting for my platform announcement. Boarding the train at 9:39 AM, we arrived in Girona by 10:13 AM.
Emerging from the station via a series of escalators, I consulted Google Maps for directions to my next hotel. En route, I paused on the Pont de Sant Feliu to snap some photos over the Onyar River, capturing the picturesque views of Girona. I soon reached the Hotel Museu Llegendes de Girona, where the friendly receptionist kindly allowed me to store my luggage. As I was checking in, she also assisted another group with local dining and sightseeing recommendations, generously marking them on maps for us.
I ventured to the Plaça de la Independencia, soaking in the lively atmosphere before wandering down Passeig José Canalejas and crossing the Pont de les Peixateries Velles, a bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1876. Inspired by the hotel receptionist's suggestions, I dined at Sideria Txots, enjoying a meal of Patatas con Cheddar y virutas de jamón Ibérico and La Fresca salad, which featured a medley of lettuce, green asparagus, tomatoes, carrots, beetroot, radishes, and onions. I topped off the meal with a delightful cheesecake crowned with candy floss.
Post-lunch, I explored the Girona Cathedral, marveling at its stunning architecture, stained glass, and statuary. After soaking in the cathedral's splendor, I checked into my hotel and shortly after ventured out to find the entrance to the Basilica de Sant Feliu. Another round of awe-inspiring religious architecture followed, after which I meandered through Girona's streets and treated myself to a delicious scoop of strawberry and vanilla ice cream from a local gelateria. Content with a day well spent, I returned to the hotel for the evening.
Day Five - 19 April - Girona
This morning, I woke up early and treated myself to a delightful breakfast at 7:30 AM featuring pain au chocolat, a croissant, a donut, and a slice of tortilla de patatas. After a satisfying start, I took a brief nap before heading out to explore the Museu d'Història dels Jueus on Carrer de la Força, which was truly excellent.
From there, I continued to the Banys Àrabs to admire the ancient Roman bath house. My journey then took me along the Passeig de la Reina Joana, and I inadvertently walked past the entrance to Girona's historic city wall. Doubling back, I found the entrance and enjoyed a scenic walk from the Torre Girona to the Jardins de la Francesa.
Later, I wandered through Girona's charming streets and crossed the Eiffel Bridge to Rocambolesc Bikineria, where I savored an Iberica ham and mozzarella sandwich. Next, I indulged in a delicious ice cream with strawberry and caramel toppings at the Rocambolesc Gelateria—another fantastic treat.
My day concluded with a leisurely stroll down Passeig José Canalejas, through Plaça de la Independencia, and across the Pont d’en Gomez. Returning to the hotel, I relaxed for the remainder of the day, content with all the sights and flavors Girona had offered.
Day Six - 20 April - Figueres - The Salvador Dali Museum and Theater
I woke up a bit later than intended, as I forgot to set my alarm, but still managed to start my day just an hour behind schedule. After getting dressed, I headed to the hotel's breakfast area for a quick meal. Once done, I gathered my things and walked to the train station in Girona to catch the AVE train to Figueres. The journey was impressively quick, taking just 14 minutes thanks to the high-speed train.
Upon arriving, I found the train station was slightly outside the town center, but still within walking distance. I strolled into Figueres and headed straight for the Dalí Museum. The museum was fascinating but quite crowded with tour groups around 10:45 AM. For those visiting solo, I’d recommend booking a later time to avoid the crowds. It’s also wise to check tour sizes if you prefer a guided experience, as large groups might be restricted from some rooms.
After exploring Dalí's stunning artworks, I visited the gift shop and picked up some fridge magnets, then rested in the quaint courtyard outside. With time to spare before lunch, I wandered around town, eventually making my way to the bustling Ramblas. I spent some time there, sitting on a bench, sorting through my trip photos.
Around noon, I headed to the restaurant I had been looking forward to trying. After a satisfying lunch, I returned to the Ramblas to relax a bit more before catching my train back to Girona. Once back, I went straight to the Bakery Casamoner where I indulged in two delectable Xuixos—one torró flavored and one with chocolate. Satisfied with my culinary adventure, I returned to the hotel to enjoy my treats.
Day Seven - 21 April - Girona - Rambles around the city add the City Wall
Today, I chose not to set my alarm but still found myself waking up early at 6:30 AM. After getting ready for the day, I headed down to the breakfast area around 7:30 AM for a morning meal. Post-breakfast, I returned to my room for a short rest, then ventured out around 9:30 AM for a stroll through the bustling city streets, carefully navigating around enthusiastic bicyclists.
My walk took me to the Pont de Pedra, and from there, I continued to Carrer de la Força, where I discovered a charming souvenir shop called Recorda-te’n Souvenirs and picked up a fridge magnet. I then revisited the Torre de Girona and walked along the ancient city walls towards the General Peralta Tower before exiting. Feeling slightly under the weather, I decided to forego lunch and returned to the hotel for some rest, hanging the “Do Not Disturb” sign on my door.
After some much-needed downtime, I felt rejuvenated enough to visit Casamoner, where I indulged in two chocolate and two Torró Xuixos, which were just as delicious as yesterday’s. Satisfied with my treats, I spent the remainder of the evening recuperating at the hotel.
Day Eight - 22 April - Back to Barcelona
This morning, I woke up early at 6:00 AM, energized and ready to make my way to the train station later in the day. By 7:30 AM, I was downstairs enjoying my usual breakfast, before heading back to my room to double-check my packing. I lingered there until 9:45 AM, then checked out and strolled on the walkway underneath the raised rail tracks, now repurposed into a charming bike and walkway, to the train station.
The train departed Girona at 11:53 AM and, true to the punctuality of the railways, we pulled into Barcelona Sants at 12:32 PM. After arriving, I made my way to the hotel where, to my pleasant surprise, my room was ready for an early check-in. Once settled, I ventured across the street to Out of India and savored a delicious Shahi paneer dish.
Later, I took a leisurely walk down Carrer de Tarragona to time my morning commute to Plaça Espanya, where I planned to catch the Aerobus. With all preparations complete, I returned to my hotel room to relax and recharge for another day of travel tomorrow.
Day Nine - 23 April - Travel Day 🛫
I woke up at 5 AM, ready to tackle the travel day ahead. After a brief moment of stillness, I prepared and repacked my bags. By 7 AM, I had checked out of the hotel and made my way to the Aerobus stop at Plaça Espanya. The bus journey to the airport was quick, about thirty minutes, and soon after, I was maneuvering through security. Managing my belongings and hoping my pants wouldn’t betray me as I removed my belt, I quickly put myself back together post-security.
I found a seat and rested a bit before moving closer to my gate, which required boarding a bus to reach the plane. Boarding was efficient, as the small groups merged quickly, and we took off for Dulles International Airport (IAD), landing there on schedule.
Upon arrival, I experienced the new Global Entry kiosks that use facial recognition, speeding up my entry process without needing a passport scan. After confirming I had nothing to declare, I proceeded to the TSA Pre-Check. Notably, at IAD, the Pre-Check is conveniently located in front of the check-in counters on the main level.
The Capital One Lounge was at capacity, so I opted out and took the AeroTrain to gates C and D. The walk to my gate seemed endless, but I stayed hydrated using the water refill stations, following the advice to avoid the drinking faucets.
My flight to Nashville boarded around 4:25 PM and landed at about 5:45 PM. The flight was smooth, despite some turbulence, and the sparse booking afforded me an entire row to myself. After landing, I made a beeline for the restrooms and then walked the lengthy distance to the Ride Share area at Nashville International Airport (BNA). My Lyft ride was promptly arranged, and I was soon on my way home.
Using points from my Capital One Venture X card, I managed to offset some travel-related expenses, which significantly reduced the overall cost of the trip.