Family Adventures in Barcelona: A Journey Through Culture and Cuisine

Barcelona's Beating Heart and Gaudí's Early Masterpiece

Today was a day of exploration that truly captured the essence of Barcelona. From the bustling Plaça de Catalunya to the architectural marvel of Casa Vicens, every moment was filled with unique experiences and discoveries. The city's vibrant energy and Gaudí's genius combined to create a day that I'll cherish forever.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Plaça de Catalunya, Barcelona's iconic central square, perfect for shopping, dining, and cultural exploration.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Vida Mona. Jana had read amazing reviews of their rooftop terrace, and we were not disappointed. The views over the city were stunning, and the food was delicious. Maximilian particularly enjoyed his pastries, while Jana and I savored the strong coffee, fueling up for a day of walking and sightseeing. It’s these simple moments, sharing a meal and enjoying each other’s company, that make these family trips so special.


Discover the taste of Catalonia at Vida Mona – where culinary artistry meets Mediterranean charm in Barcelona's Eixample.

After breakfast, we made our way to Plaça de Catalunya, the city's central square. The energy there was palpable, a true reflection of Barcelona's vibrant spirit. There were people from all walks of life, tourists and locals alike, all converging in this central hub. Maximilian was fascinated by the pigeons, chasing them around the square with uncontainable glee. It was a joy to watch him, his laughter echoing through the open space. I took some photos, trying to capture the essence of the square, the hustle and bustle, the feeling of being right in the heart of it all. I even managed to capture Jana smiling serenely as Maximilian ran around her, a perfect family moment.

From Plaça de Catalunya, we strolled down Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona's most famous avenues. The street is lined with high-end shops and stunning architecture, a feast for the eyes at every turn. Jana, of course, was in her element, window shopping and admiring the designer displays. Maximilian, however, was less enthralled, so we made a deal: a quick stop at a toy store if he behaved himself for the rest of the walk. It worked like a charm. We passed by the iconic Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, marveling at Gaudí's genius. Even though we had visited them earlier in the trip, their beauty never fails to impress. The way Gaudí blended nature and architecture is simply breathtaking.


Discover the architectural beauty and vibrant culture of Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona's premier boulevard for shopping and dining.

The true value of travel lies not in seeing new sights, but in seeing with new eyes.

Our main destination for the day was Casa Vicens Gaudí, the first house designed by Antoni Gaudí. It’s a bit further out from the city center, but well worth the trip. The house is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's easy to see why. The architecture is unlike anything I’ve ever seen, a unique blend of Moorish, Oriental, and Catalan styles. The colorful tiles and intricate details are simply mesmerizing. Maximilian, surprisingly, was quite taken with the house, pointing out the different animals and plants he could spot in the decorations. We took our time exploring each room, admiring Gaudí's early vision and the innovative use of space and light.


Discover the enchanting Casa Vicens Gaudí, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the brilliance of Catalan Modernism in Barcelona's Gràcia district.

One of my favorite parts of Casa Vicens was the rooftop. From there, you get a panoramic view of the city, a perfect vantage point to appreciate Barcelona's urban landscape. The chimneys, decorated with the same vibrant tiles as the rest of the house, were particularly striking. I spent a good while up there, soaking in the views and reflecting on Gaudí's genius. It's incredible to think that this was just the beginning of his extraordinary career.

After our visit to Casa Vicens, we were all quite hungry. We decided to have lunch at Restaurant La Forquilla, a place Jana had found online. It was a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away on a quiet street. The restaurant had a cozy, intimate atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. The menu was full of traditional Catalan dishes, and we decided to try a bit of everything. The seafood paella was a particular highlight, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. Maximilian, surprisingly, devoured the grilled calamari, a testament to the restaurant's excellent quality.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean dining in Barcelona's Eixample district at Restaurant La Forquilla - where every dish tells a story.

In the late afternoon, with Maximilian's promise of good behavior still fresh, we ventured to Diagonal Mar for a bit of shopping. Jana was looking for a new handbag, and I was hoping to find a nice shirt. Maximilian, of course, was more interested in the toy stores. We spent a couple of hours browsing the shops, enjoying the air conditioning and the lively atmosphere. Jana eventually found the perfect handbag, a stylish leather tote that she had been eyeing for weeks. I managed to find a nice linen shirt, perfect for the warm Barcelona weather. And Maximilian, true to form, walked away with a new Lego set, his face beaming with joy.


Explore Diagonal Mar, Barcelona's premier shopping mall, offering a unique blend of retail therapy, dining, and entertainment in a stunning modern setting.

For our final meal of the day, we had dinner at Oria by Martín Berasategui, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in our hotel, ME Barcelona. It was a splurge, but we wanted to end our day on a high note. The restaurant was elegant and sophisticated, with impeccable service and a refined atmosphere. The tasting menu was an absolute delight, each course a work of art. The flavors were complex and nuanced, a true testament to the chef's skill and creativity. Jana and I savored every bite, while Maximilian, surprisingly, was quite well-behaved, enjoying the simpler dishes and the attentive service.


Experience Michelin-starred Basque and Catalonian cuisine at Oria by Martín Berasategui in Barcelona's elegant Eixample district.


Experience the vibrant heart of Barcelona at ME Barcelona, a 5-star hotel offering exquisite amenities, local cuisine, and unparalleled service.

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Barcelona had once again exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and family fun. From the bustling Plaça de Catalunya to the architectural marvel of Casa Vicens, every moment was filled with unique experiences and discoveries. And tomorrow, we're planning a relaxing day at Barceloneta Beach, followed by a visit to the Aquàrium Barcelona. I think Maximilian will be especially excited about that. We’ll end the day at Port Olímpic and maybe check out the Caribbean Club bar that Jana found. I'm looking forward to seeing what tomorrow brings, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of this wonderful day.

Reflecting on the day, I realize that it's not just about seeing the sights, but about experiencing the city with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. As we walked through Plaça de Catalunya, I remembered a similar square in Brno, náměstí Svobody, where I often go to clear my head. It struck me how every city has its own central point, a place where the rhythm of life is most palpable. And today, I felt that rhythm in Barcelona, a city that has captured my heart with its beauty, its energy, and its endless possibilities. It's the kind of day that reminds me why I love to travel, to explore, and to share these experiences with the people I love most.

I am so glad that Jana convinced me to take a break from work. It's easy to get caught up in the daily grind, but these family trips are a reminder of what truly matters. And as I look at Maximilian, sleeping soundly in his bed, I know that these are the memories he will cherish for years to come. Perhaps one day, he will bring his own family to Barcelona, to experience the magic of this incredible city. And I hope that he will remember this trip, the laughter, the discoveries, and the simple joy of being together.

Tomorrow is our last full day here, and while I am sad to leave, I am also excited to return home, to share our stories with friends and family, and to start planning our next adventure. But for now, I'm going to enjoy the peace and quiet of our hotel room, and dream of the colorful streets and stunning architecture of Barcelona.

Gute Nacht, Barcelona!