This modernist masterpiece is the first work that Gaudí made in Barcelona and has been recently refurbished and more open to be visited.

Explore the wonders of the garden designed by Gaudí. Visit the dragon staircase with its surface covered in broken shards of trencadis mosaic and the Hall of One Hundred Columns.

Built by the modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, this UNESCO World Heritage site combines sculpture, mosaic, stained glass and wrought iron on its magnificent façade.

Houses on Passeig de Gracia from architects such as Casa Batlló and La Pedrera also called Casa Milà by Antoni Gaudí, Casa Lleó i Morera by Lluis Domènech i Montaner, Casa Amatller by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, or his Casa de les Punxes on Diagonal Street.

The over four kilometres of urban beach is perfect for a walk, a run, or a bike tour. Stop by one of the chiringuitos such as Escribà, Can Majó o Pez Vela for a tasty paella.

Built between 1905 to 1930 and designed by Lluis Domenech i Montaner, this was used as a hospital for a century and has been newly refurbished.

Barcelona’s iconic building and Gaudí’s masterpiece, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, began construction in 1882 and is slated for completion in 2026.

This has remained an important cultural centre and symbol of the city. Its private club, El Circulo del Liceo, possesses a rich artistic heritage, including paintings by Ramón Casas.

Discover the flavours and colours of Barcelonian markets. Stop for a bite or a tasty dish of gambas con huevos fritos at El Quim de la Boqueria or Pinotxo where Juanito will suggest you his dishes of the day.

Get lost and walk through history, from the Romans to the present by visiting the Cathedral, the Plaça del Rei or its charming squares Plaça Sant Felip Neri or Plaça del Pi.

Housed in five medieval palaces and inaugurated in 1963, this museum holds a collection of more than 4,000 pieces. Do not miss its temporary exhibition, “Picasso’s Kitchen,” which runs until 30 September, and discover the master's relationship with cuisine.

Whether you take a walk through the Carretera de les Aigües or visit the Tibidabo church or an amusement park, here you will get the best views of the city.

This is the Champs-Élysées of Barcelona where you will find most of the luxury brands and high-end local boutiques. Drop by Santa Eulalia or visit the famous local designers.

A unique show of water, music and colours, Montjuïc is also home to museums such as the MNAC in the National Palace, the Fundació Joan Miró, the Pavilion Mies van der Rohe, CaixaForum and the Olympic Stadium.

Mónica Homedes is the director of communications at Mandarin Oriental Barcelona.

See also: 48 Hours In Beirut