This is for those who have been to Barcelona prior. Otherwise, go explore that city, get lost. Barcelona is one of my favorite cities, so first things first, go experience that. Butttt, if you’ve been a few times and want to expand your horizons, here’s the perfect itinerary for your first twenty-four hours in Catalunya.
My recommendation:
Land in Barcelona, pick up your rental, and hit the Mediterranean Highway*, Figueras-bound. *Yes, it’s actually called that 💜
On the way, when you’re hungry and realize you need to see the sea stat, stop at one of the lovely rest stops along the way and refresh from the flight.
Then, find a little town along the Costa Brava. There are many, but I love Empuriabrava and the restaurant where the Muga River meets the Mediterranean in the Gulf of Roses. Look at that last sentence. Muga River, Mediterranean, Gulf of Roses. I love Catalunya…Perhaps there are better options in town food-wise, but Restaurant Ams has a gorgeous patio and view, and their gambas al ajillo are great, with enough spice to make you sneeze twice. Pair it with some Cava, breathe deep, and write something.
Jet lag is the ultimate daylight savings time. One minute you’re in NYC, then bam, set your clocks forward six hours. And then you live like that until you fall back.
For all the time lost and gained, the moments I’ve not felt quite sane. It’s worth it.
I can’t help but grin as the sun douses warmth, the beautiful blue in plain view.
I’m opting for me. May I remember this moment when lonely or spending my with a man undeserving. Let the sea and fresh breeze turn me on. Let exploration blow my mind. These memories a kiss you’ll never forget….
And then you carry on because your ticket time is less than an hour. There is parking right by the museum. Pull in and go have your mind blown by Dalí.
THE MAN WAS A GENIUS…I knew that already, but now I have a whole new appreciation for the breadth and depth of his mind. He is a master of revolution, of Surrealism, Cubism, Impressionism, Futurism, sculpture, video, audio, jewelry…all the things!
Then check in to the Hotel Plaza Inn which takes cues from the man who just blew your mind. There’s a sensation already that you’ll be back.
A shower and change of clothes, alas, hunger rising. First walk down Passeig Nou before it gets too late, as vendors line the edges with all kinds of treats. You could get lost in all the cheap vinyl, but it’s time to drink some wine.
Head over to Granada Vins. Eventually, when you look at your maps and the route you were given, you’ll realize you could have gotten there in three minutes instead of 13, but the walk was fun.
This Figueres wine bar hits all the spots: ambiance, attentive and friendly staff, a decent wine list featuring locals, and a fun take on Catalunyan food.
I believe in eating and drinking local. That which grows together goes together. Therefore, I highly recommend just-made croquetas con mariscos (seafood croquettes) alongside a bottle of the Celler Mas Llunes Marajda Empordá. I had the 2023, a blend of sunny, voluptuous Macabeo with munchy Garnaxta Blanca. And for the main event, a lightly breaded and grilled octopus tentacle over a bed of kimchi slaw with some type of cream that tied everything together. I must get better at noting the actual dish. I was too concerned with eating it. SO GOOD.
Admittedly, I like the wine more because I know it’s from where I’m connecting. Third-party terroir.
The acidity is handsy and salty. Ripe melons give the melody while minerality and body sing the chorus. And it pairs perfectly with the octopus!
Get a cork, throw the bottle in your bag, and go pass by the museum to catch it at night before checking out Eglésia de Sant Pere. The hotel is right by and you’re ready to sleep alas. After all, big adventures await! To Penedés!
