If you could imagine your ideal summer abroad experience, what would come to mind? While there are surely a number of must-see places flooding your thoughts, you may find that visions of soccer and flamenco dance in your head. If that is the case, then participating in one of these programs has the potential to make your dreams come true, enabling you to stop by Barcelona as part of your educational itinerary.
A creative take on your excursion
There are a number of sites that you could see in this seaport city, easily squeezing them in between studies. Barcelona offers a mixture of opportunities to immerse yourself in Spain's past. With a diverse selection of attractions and activities, you will be able to strike the perfect balance of old and new during your stay in this port.
When you're not hitting the books and studying up on international business and foreign affairs, do you fancy yourself an art connoisseur? If that is the case, then you have plenty of chances to explore the aesthetic riches of this city.
For instance, you can dedicate a day to viewing modernista buildings typical of the Catalan region. Why not take a look at the Casa Amatller, designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch? Or perhaps the Casa Lleó Morera, an exemplar piece of Spanish architecture? Both of these intricate houses are prominently featured on the Passeig de Gràcia, allowing you to pass by as you take an effortless stroll.
Get your fill of Gaudì
If you truly are an art fan, then you are most likely looking to see the architectural works of one famous artists who adorned Barcelona with his designs. That's right, chances are you have written visiting the buildings of creative genius Antoni Gaudí at the top of your must-see list – complete with exclamations points and all. From the Casa Batlló to the Sagrada Família basilica to the Pedrera stone building, you can take in the numerous sights designed by Gaudì, which is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
While traipsing around the city is undoubtedly enjoyable, especially if you take occasional breaks for sipping some coffee and engaging in serious people watching, you may want to take a bit of shelter from the warm Spanish sun and head indoors. Luckily, there many museums at your disposal, and you can take your pick of which types of artwork you would like to survey.
Even after venturing to the many architectural feats created by Gaudì, you may still feel like you can't get enough of his work. If that's the case, then you should hit up the Casa Museu Gaudì. This museum was constructed in 1904 and was home to the famous architect. It stands today surrounded by gardens and filled with all of the artist's personal belongings.
Touring the gardens, you will be able to walk along the arched pergola envisioned by Gaudì himself. On top of that, there are pieces from some of his other works, such as the Casa Milà and the Finca Miralles, set out on display. If you take a spin inside, you can view everything from a library containing materials about the artist and his contemporaries to a bronze bust of Gaudì that is kept in the hall.