*My girls and I at Park Guell, Barcelona*

To all future girls trips: I’m sorry, but you’ve got some serious competition. Our week in Barcelona wasn’t just a vacation—it was a chapter of pure magic. I didn’t realize how transformative eight days with these incredible women would be until I looked back and saw how much we laughed, bonded, and grew together. It was one of those rare trips that etches itself into your soul. So if you're wondering whether to rally your closest girlfriends and book that flight—don’t wonder. Do it. You won’t regret it. Now buckle up for an insanely fun, wildly feminine ride through Barcelona: think La Sagrada Familia tours, sunny rooftop bars, a medieval day trip to Girona, Park Güell strolls, a rowdy Barça game, and more burrata than you thought humanly possible—all washed down with copious amounts of cheap and cheerful Spanish wine.

What Drew Us to Barcelona?

Girls’ trips are their own kind of magic. Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to take several, and each one has offered something unforgettable. There’s something about gathering with women—away from work, family, and everyday obligations—that invites deep connection, belly laughs, spontaneous adventures, and lasting memories. So when it came time to plan our next escape, we knew we wanted a destination that could match that energy. Enter: Barcelona.

In the lead-up to choosing a location, our group had a few meetups where we tossed around endless ideas—Amsterdam, Porto, Italy, the UK, even Peru. The list was long and dreamy. But then, one day, I got an alert for roundtrip flights from tiny Durango, Colorado to Barcelona for under $500 (a unicorn deal for our remote corner of the Southwest). I shot out a quick group text, and we all booked the tickets on the spot. From that moment, our planning took off—with tapas-themed dinners and late-night itinerary chats only fueling the excitement

Day 1-ish: From Takeoff to Touchdown: Our Journey to Barcelona

Fast-forward four months, and there we were—tossing our luggage into Cassi’s SUV, wrapped in cozy yoga pants and the kind of giddy energy only a long-awaited girls' trip can bring. We were officially en route, bound for European soil. I still remember the moment we floated through the Denver airport like we were starring in our own slow-motion movie—five wide-eyed women grinning ear to ear, chattering about the sangria we’d soon be sipping and all the “OMG, we have to do this” moments ahead. We were so ready.

The travel blur followed: boarding, takeoff, airplane wine (free, thank you very much), surprisingly edible pasta, half-sleeping through the Barbie movie, and then—boom—touchdown in Frankfurt. One more quick hop and suddenly, Barcelona! We had arrived.

With just enough time to check in to our dreamy 4-bedroom Airbnb near La Sagrada Familia, we dropped our bags, freshened up, and hit the streets. Neighborhood wandering led us straight to dinner: paella and a burrata salad served at a little spot directly across from the basilica, which, lit up at night, is nothing short of magic.

*These views just outside our dinner spot!*

Day 2: From Gaudí’s Grandeur to Rooftop Relaxation

Thanks to our strategy of staying up late the night before, we were surprisingly ready to hit the ground running. First stop: La Sagrada Familia.

Even in late October—technically the off-season—Barcelona buzzed with energy, and we were glad we’d booked tickets ahead of time. The city was alive, and so was the line outside Gaudí’s most famous masterpiece. Luckily, we had the earliest entry slot, beating most of the crowds. And let me tell you: the first glimpse of the basilica as you walk up is staggering. It’s not just the size (which is massive), but the way it rises out of the urban sprawl like something from a dream—or a fevered genius’s sketchbook come to life.

Three facades—each wildly different from the next—tell their own story. The Nativity Façade (1894–1930), full of ornate detail and natural symbolism; the Passion Façade (1954–1976), strikingly stark and angular in contrast; and the still-in-progress Glory Façade (begun in 2002), which aims to be the most elaborate of them all. The scale, the symbolism, the sheer imagination—there’s nothing like it.

For me, the visit carried an extra layer of meaning. I’d last seen La Sagrada in 2001, as a wide-eyed 18-year-old. Returning more than two decades later felt surreal. So much had changed—whole sections added, towers completed, the entire interior transformed. Yet the feeling it gave me? Still total wonder.

Inside, we spent a couple of quiet, awe-filled hours. The stained glass washed the walls in a rainbow glow. The tree-like columns reached toward the heavens. With our audio guides in our ears and jaws firmly on the floor, we soaked in every detail—the architectural brilliance, the spiritual symbolism, the way light and space were used to create something that feels almost… otherworldly. Balancing the urge to take a million photos with just being present was no small task. But if ever there was a place that demanded stillness, it’s this one.

When our hearts and cameras were full, we made our way to the Passion Tower elevator. In seconds, we were whisked 90 meters into the sky. The doors opened to reveal narrow passageways and jaw-dropping views of the city, stretching to the sea. Gaudí’s whimsical spires, colorful mosaics, and—even the bright yellow construction cranes—somehow blended into the view like they belonged. It was part cathedral, part kaleidoscope.

From there, we tiptoed along tight corridors, crossed between towers, paused for more sweeping views, and then—cue the dramatic music—faced the infamous spiral staircase: 426 dizzying steps back down. With each turn, we laughed louder, arms grazing walls, legs wobbling, until we finally emerged at the base, slightly winded, a little woozy, but grinning ear to ear.

Feet Up, Glass Raised: Our Rooftop Recharge in Barcelona

After Sagrada, we walked. And walked. And then walked about eight more miles—because that’s how girls trip cardio works, right?

We marveled at Gaudí’s Casa Batlló from the sidewalk, ducked into a cramped H&M dressing room in search of wardrobe updates, admired the striking beauty of Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau while slurping down much-needed smoothies, and picked up a few delightfully kitschy souvenirs along the way. By mid-afternoon, our feet were screaming.

It was officially rooftop o’clock.

Barcelona is overflowing with rooftop bars, and honestly, choosing one felt like trying to pick a favorite tapas dish (impossible). But by some divine cocktail-fueled fate, we landed at B-Heaven Rooftop Bar, perched atop the Occidental Diagonal 414 Hotel. A total gem.

With 360-degree views of the city and not a crowd in sight, it was the perfect place to exhale. We kicked off our shoes—literally—and kicked back with cocktails in hand, swapping highlights from the day and soaking in the golden afternoon light. The breeze was just right, the playlist was vibey, and the drinks hit harder after all that walking. And those panoramic views? Chef’s kiss. You could see La Sagrada peeking through the skyline, modernist rooftops stretching in every direction, and the soft blur of mountains in the distance.

*Nothing like a beautiful rooftop terrace to sit at, relax, and giggle about all the fun things we did on this day!*

Day 3: Winding Streets & Flavor Feasts: Our Gothic Quarter and Time Out Market Adventure

Wow, wow, wow. The Gothic Quarter—Barri Gòtic—is like stepping into a storybook where every cobblestone has a tale to tell. This enchanting neighborhood, with its winding alleys, ancient architecture, and shadowy corners, was pure magic. Every twist and turn revealed something unexpected, something unforgettable. It was the kind of place that makes you slow down, look up, and whisper, “Are we still in the 21st century?”

From the moment we stepped off the train, it felt like we’d time-traveled. The streets narrowed, the buildings leaned in, and the city’s modern buzz faded into something softer and older. Our first stop—guided purely by morning hunger—was Granja Dulcinea, a charming and historic café tucked down a narrow stone corridor. Known for its piping-hot coffee and decadent chocolate pastries, it was the perfect place to fuel up and caffeinate for a day of exploring. (Let’s just say we didn’t not go back later in the week.)

Buzzing from caffeine and sugar, we set off wandering—and almost immediately stumbled into one of the day’s most magical moments. Drawn by music echoing through the alleys, we found ourselves in Pla de la Seu, the square outside the Cathedral of Barcelona. There, a circle of locals danced the Sardana—a traditional Catalan folk dance—while a live band played in the background. It was one of those unexpected travel moments that completely stops you in your tracks. The joy was infectious, and we stood there, completely captivated.

Tucked around the side of the cathedral, we entered the cloisters, where a peaceful courtyard offered a stark contrast to the bustle of the square. Gothic spires loomed above, fountains trickled gently, and thirteen resident geese waddled around as if they owned the place (and honestly, they kind of did). It felt like a little pocket of serenity.

We wandered on, letting curiosity be our guide. Next was the iconic Pont del Bisbe, a gorgeous neo-Gothic bridge connecting two buildings, with a dark twist: a small skull pierced by a dagger carved into the underside—a little mystery nestled into all that beauty.

Then came a true hidden gem: Temple d’August, a tucked-away courtyard surrounding towering Roman columns from the Temple of Augustus, dating back to the 1st century BCE. One moment we were on a typical side street, and the next we were in the presence of ancient history. No big deal.

We finished our Gothic Quarter stroll with a visit to El món neix en cada besada—“The world begins with every kiss.” Known more casually as the kissing wall, this vibrant mosaic appears from a distance to be two lovers mid-kiss, but up close, it’s made up of hundreds of tiny tile photographs, each one capturing moments of human emotion, intimacy, and life. Art within art.

Bites, Sips, and Endless Flavor Inside Time Out Market

After all that wandering, it was officially time to refuel. Allyson, our resident Time Out Market enthusiast (she’d fallen in love with the one in Lisbon), had been hyping up the Barcelona outpost since day one—and spoiler alert: it absolutely delivered.

Time Out Market is a foodie’s dream—think a bustling, high-energy hall filled with the city’s best bites all under one roof. Renowned chefs, up-and-coming locals, traditional Catalan fare, fusion dishes from around the globe—it was the kind of place that makes you panic-order because everything looks too good to skip. We came hungry (and thirsty) and dove in with zero hesitation.

What was supposed to be a “quick bite” turned into a full-blown feast: pillowy pizzas topped with creamy burrata, truffle oil, and a medley of mushrooms; plates piled high with crispy patatas bravas; golden croquetas that melted in our mouths; and—no exaggeration—five bottles of chilled Spanish white wine that just kept appearing. (Who was ordering all that wine? We'll never tell.)

We claimed an outdoor table on the terrace and ended up staying for three, maybe four hours—we lost count somewhere between bottle three and uncontrollable laughter. What started as a casual lunch became one of those slow, joy-soaked meals that you never want to end. The kind where conversation flows from ridiculous stories to deeper life stuff without missing a beat. Sightseeing is great, but this—the laughter, the toasts, the bread-breaking with your people—was the real highlight of my day.

*Walking along Port Vell, a modern walkway stretching over the sea, and leading to Time Out Market Barcelona*

Day 4: Chasing Sunset, Losing the Menu Battle

After a rainy morning spent relaxing and recharging, we were ready to embrace the evening. As the skies cleared and the sun began to set, we took a leisurely stroll to the majestic Arc de Triomf, its warm glow setting the perfect tone for the night. From there, we wandered through the lush Ciutadella Park, breathing in the fresh air and soaking up the peaceful vibe as the city slowly shifted into evening mode. As darkness crept in, we made our way along the breezy Barceloneta Beach, kicking off our shoes to feel the cool sand beneath our feet and even colder ocean washing over our toes. The day’s grand finale? Finding a place to eat—which turned into a hilarious group debate, thanks to everyone’s indecisiveness! We finally settled on a spot, but, spoiler alert: the food didn’t quite live up to our expectations. You win some, you lose some.

Day 5: Montjuïc Cable Car & Barcelona Football game!

After a relaxing day wandering, we traded cobblestone streets for the skies—hopping aboard the Montjuïc Cable Car en route to the Barcelona vs. Espanyol football match. And let me tell you: this ride was a whole moment. Gliding above the city, we were treated to sweeping views of Barcelona’s rooftops, the glimmering Mediterranean, and lush green hills of Montjuïc. There was something so calming—and a little surreal—about floating quietly above such a bustling city.

Then, in true girls-trip fashion, we made a spontaneous detour. Hunger hit (again), and we spotted a cozy restaurant perched above the wharf, calling to us like a siren song. With no reservations and no expectations, we landed an outdoor table with a perfect view of the water. Cue drinks, , and the kind of easy laughter that only comes when you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

Recharged and buzzing, we made our way to Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium—Barça’s temporary home turf while Camp Nou undergoes renovations. The energy? Next level. The stands were packed with fans decked out in the iconic blue and garnet, and the fact that they were playing Espanyol, their city rival, only added fuel to the fire. We could feel the intensity crackling in the air before kickoff even began.

As the match unfolded, we got swept up in the chaos—the synchronized chants, the collective gasps and roars, the pure, unfiltered passion. Barça won (!!!), and by the time the final whistle blew, we were giddy and completely in love with the city’s fútbol spirit. It wasn’t just about the game—it was about feeling part of something bigger, something deeply rooted in Barcelona’s identity. An unforgettable night, start to finish.

*Wow! An incredible game in an incredible stadium - Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium*

Day 6: Girona Day Trip

*Welcoming us to the city, Girona’s colorful buildings along the Onyard River*

Early on, we agreed: one day had to be dedicated to escaping Barcelona’s buzz and soaking up the slower pace of a quieter Spanish town. With endless day trip options, Girona immediately stole our hearts. Known for its impeccably preserved medieval architecture and a lively cultural scene, it promised the perfect blend of history and charm. So, bright and early, we hopped a high-speed train, and just an hour later, stepped off ready to explore every cobblestone by foot.

Our first stop was the imposing medieval fortress, Força Vella—and walking its ancient walls was like stepping into a living history book. The stones beneath our feet seemed to murmur tales from centuries ago, while narrow cobbled streets beckoned us to wander aimlessly and get wonderfully lost. We navigated a labyrinth of twisting alleys, soaking in the gorgeous mix of Roman arches and soaring Gothic details. My absolute favorite moment? Striding along the fortress walls, where breathtaking views unfolded over terracotta rooftops and the surrounding rolling hills—a perfect blend of peaceful countryside and timeless cityscape.

But Girona’s magic doesn’t stop at the fortress. The city’s maze-like streets lead to treasures like the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria, home to the widest Gothic nave in the world. Bonus: Girona is a Game of Thrones filming hotspot, and we found ourselves retracing some of the iconic scenes. We loved strolling along the Onyar River, with its kaleidoscope of colorful houses lining the banks like a storybook come to life. We even crossed the striking bright red iron bridge designed by none other than Gustav Eiffel—built just before he crafted the Eiffel Tower!

When hunger struck, we ducked into Cafe Le Bistrot for what turned out to be one of the trip’s absolute best meals. Picture this: we were seated just inside two deep maroon doors, opening onto a tiny terrace overlooking a quaint plaza—another subtle nod to GoT fans—bathed in soft, golden light. The ambiance was pure charm. And the food? A love letter to authentic Catalan cuisine. We opted for the three-course menu, and every bite was packed with fresh, traditional flavors that made our taste buds dance. From the first spoonful to the last crumb, it was an unforgettable feast that perfectly captured the spirit of Girona.

Day 7: Park Guell + A Bonus Sunset Sailing Trip

Visiting Park Güell is like stepping into a dream painted with vibrant colors and whimsical shapes—a joyful celebration of nature and creativity intertwined. We once again snagged the earliest tickets to beat the crowds, giving us the rare luxury of wandering the park with a sense of calm and wonder.

Designed by the legendary Antoni Gaudí, every corner of the park bursts with imagination. From the famous multicolored serpentine bench—my absolute favorite spot, where you can soak in sweeping panoramic views of Barcelona—to the playful, mosaic-covered salamander that seems almost alive, the park is a feast for the eyes. The colonnaded pathways curve and twist like something out of a fairy tale, inviting us to lose ourselves in their undulating forms.

The vibe was the perfect mix of playful and peaceful, a space where you can marvel at Gaudí’s artistic genius while feeling completely relaxed. Spending a couple of hours exploring felt like a must—it’s truly one of a kind, a magical world that simply doesn’t exist anywhere else on earth.

*My favorite view in the park - I could sit here and admire the views all day long*

Come Sail Away!

On our very last night in Barcelona, spontaneity took the wheel. With a burst of excitement (and zero planning), we booked a sunset sailing trip and raced to the dock just in time to catch the golden hour magic. As the boat slipped away from the dock, the sky exploded into shades of pink, orange, and lavender — the perfect backdrop for our final evening together.

We kicked back with cocktails included in the trip, the kind of drinks that taste even better when you’re surrounded by your best girlfriends and the open sea. Norah Jones played softly in the background, and before we knew it, we were all singing along—off-key and carefree.

At one point, a group of younger travelers from Germany joined our boat, and naturally, we couldn’t help but share a bit of our “40-year-old wisdom.” Between laughs (and maybe a glass or two of wine), we gently reminded them— and ourselves—how fast time flies, and how important it is not to waste a single moment. Life’s too short to hold back, and every second is meant to be lived fully, with joy and fearless curiosity. They seemed to appreciate it—or at least humored us!

The rest of the night was pure joy: salty air, soft waves, laughter echoing over the water, and the warm glow of the setting sun. It was the perfect, unscripted send-off to a trip that had brought us closer, made us smile wider, and left us with memories to last a lifetime.

Seven Days, Five Friends, One Trip We’ll Never Forget

If you’ve ever wondered whether you should plan that girls’ trip you’ve been talking about for years—this is your sign to do it. This post is a love letter to the week I spent in Barcelona with four lovely friends. It’s the story of how we traded routines for rooftop bars, to-do lists for tapas, and squeezed every bit of joy out of seven days in a city that completely stole our hearts. It wasn’t just about seeing Barcelona—it was about slowing down, soaking it in, and remembering how good it feels to be surrounded by people who really know you.

And if there's one thing I hope you take away from this, it’s this: time moves fast. Don’t wait. Book the trip. Live it big. And bring your girls with you.