EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: BARCELONA

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN BARCELONA

A study abroad trip to Barcelona isn’t complete without tasting Spain’s famous paella. Paella originates from the Valencian region but is internationally recognized as Spain’s national dish. Paella valenciana is the traditional recipe, often made with rice, green beans, chicken, rabbit, sometimes duck, butter beans, and a hodgepodge of seasonings like saffron, rosemary, and more. Paella de marisco (with seafood) substitutes meat with seafood and shellfish like mussels, squid, shrimp, and clams. You might come across paella mixta as well, which is another version featuring meat, seafood, vegetables, and beans together. Whichever style of this plate you try, dig in because it’s not only a national staple, it’s delicious!

Top Cultural Foods To Try in Barcelona

Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Barcelona:

• Pa amb Tomàquet: Try this iconic dish that is a staple of Catalan cuisine. It consists of bread rubbed with tomato, drizzled with olive oil, and sprinkled with salt. You'll find it's served with almost every meal and shows off some of the best flavors of the region!
• Botifarra amb Mongetes: For a delicious comfort meal, try Botifarra amb Mongetes. This is a delicious meal of grilled Catalan sausage with white beans, often seasoned with garlic and herbs.
• Escalivada: This is a delicious vegetarian dish that is popular throughout the region. Escalivada is made from vegetables like eggplant, red peppers, and onions that are roasted over embers. The result is a smoky and tasteful dish that can be eaten on its own or served with meat. 

BEST DRINK IN BARCELONA

Spanish cafés are known for their first-class coffee, which makes it nearly impossible to find a bad cup of joe in Barcelona. Order yours con leche (with milk), solo (an espresso), con hielo (with ice), café (black), or cortado (short, with a dash of milk). If you prefer your coffee on the sweet side, order café bombón (espresso with sweetened condensed milk).

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Barcelona

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Barcelona:

• Cava: Cava is a sparkling wine that is produced in the Catalan region, and it makes a great alternative to Champagne. Cava is a huge part of the local beverage culture and you'll find it is often drunk for celebrations.  
• Vermouth: This is a very popular aperitif, often enjoyed with friends before lunch. Vermouth is a fortified wine, and Barcelona has a huge vermouth culture.
• Hot Chocolate with Xurros: In Spain, hot chocolate is a very thick and almost pudding-like drink. Traditionally, it’s served with fried xurros for dipping as well. It’s a delicious breakfast or afternoon treat that you’ll have to try!  

BEST PLACES TO EXPLORE IN BARCELONA

Barcelona is home to one of the most impressive public parks in the world: Park Güell. Designed by famous architect, Antonio Gaudí, Park Güell is an inviting attraction of vibrant and colorful mosaic structures, twisting rock pillars, and impressive stonework. The view from the top offers an unmatched perspective of Barcelona. Snap a photo with Park Güell’s symbolic lizard, El Drac; stroll through the plant nursery and terraced balconies of Austria Gardens and the Gaudí House Museum; and end your visit with a well-earned rest on the mosaic-tiled Serpentine Bench.

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Barcelona

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Barcelona:

• Sagrada Família: This is the iconic basilica designed by Antoni Gaudí that is a major landmark in Barcelona. The church's unique modernista architecture is a breathtaking sight to see in person.
• Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): The Gothic Quarter is a maze of narrow, winding cobblestone streets and hidden squares that you’ll definitely want to explore and discover. Get lost and enjoy the medieval history of the city in a unique way!
• Montjuïc: For a break from the city lights, head up to Montjuïc hill. The hill has a fortress, museums, and beautiful gardens with incredible panoramic views of the city and the nearby sea. Enjoy a hike, shopping or snap some truly amazing photos. 

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