Editor's Note: As we continue to practice social distancing (opens in new tab), we encourage readers to check the Centers for Disease Control website (opens in new tab) for the latest information on how to travel safely. In the meantime, bookmark this Instagram travel guide, you'll love it. [Barcelona is one of Spain's most iconic cities, known for its breathtaking Gaudi architecture, vibrant nightlife scene, and picturesque beach boardwalk. Whether you prefer fine dining or a more casual sangria and tapas experience, Barcelona's rich culinary scene can be savored late into the night. Culture lovers can spend their days touring museums and architecture and their nights spending weeks in some of the hippest nightclubs in Europe. Surrender to the laid-back lifestyle of the Catalan capital and explore the gorgeous streets of Barcelona. If you're "not sure where to start," how about the following not-to-be-missed activities.

[poll id='b0d0187a-3eb1-4a80-881b-b825e3b50788_f2a9fec3b24cf' type='text' question='Are you preparing for another trip? answer1='Yes, I have already booked my next trip. answer2='Nope, I'm still waiting it out.'][/poll]

Barcelona's most famous landmark is the Sagrada Familia (open in new tab), an unfinished masterpiece by Antoni Gaudi. You will be amazed by the architectural complexity and the impressive height of the building, supported by double twisted columns. If you want to avoid the crowds and admire Gaudi's work, visit Palau Güell (open in new tab). This palace (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a fascinating example of Gaudí's talent for combining functional innovation with his trademark grand design.

Tapas originated in southern Spain, but they fit well with Barcelona's easygoing lifestyle. Down the historic Passage de la Paz is the tapas bar Paz19 by Sensi, a cozy place to share small plates while enjoying music and cocktails. Order delicious dishes such as patatas bravas, saffron mussels, truffle ravioli, and more.

The funky El Born neighborhood is a great place to escape the tourists and enjoy gallery-hopping, vintage shopping, and casual dinners. Take a stroll through the Santa Caterina market and the tree-lined Pasey del Born in the Gothic Quarter to browse through a wide variety of stores. Historically, this street was the site of medieval jousting. Today, El Born is a serene neighborhood with the Picasso Museum (open in new tab) and numerous modern art galleries.

Barcelona boasts great chefs who turn cooking into an art form, like Artur Martínez, who runs the pristine kitchen at Aürt, which was awarded a Michelin star this year. Martínez and his team cook tableside and serve up to 15 people. Watch as the chefs meticulously prepare each dish, such as using tweezers to place microgreens on top of smoked duck. Choose your wine pairing. (Who knew a dry white port wine would go so well with onion royale? .......) 16 courses (......) for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Grab a picnic lunch and head to Parque Güell (open in new tab) to relax on the grass and take in the stunning views over the city. Some attractions in Parque Güell require paid tickets, but most areas are free. Walk to the main terrace and sit on the Sea Serpent bench. Fascinating rock pillars support layers of walkways, so it's easy to get lost after lunch.

Ramblas Avenue is a tree-lined street with a lively crowd. The pedestrian street is crowded with street performers, flower stalls, and street-side cafes. The promenade's central location makes it a great place to stay during your visit to Barcelona. A few steps from La Boqueria (opens in new tab), a popular open-air market with Catalan cuisine, is Le Meridien Barcelona (opens in new tab), a tasteful, modern hotel. Stay in a room overlooking Las Ramblas and you can enjoy the chaos of the promenade while sipping a café con leche in your slippers.

Barcelona's beaches are packed with eateries and sunbathers, and the promenade is often crowded with the azure backdrop of the Mediterranean. Take action by securing a spot at one of the many "chiringuitos" that offer seating, music, food, and drinks. [Barcelona's nightlife is notorious. Don't forget to enter the siestas. Clubs and discos don't open until around midnight, so start with a late dinner at a trendy restaurant like Mr. Porter (opens in a new tab). In addition to mouth-watering steaks and wood-fired sides, the restaurant has an extensive seasonal cocktail menu and a DJ who plays house music. As the night progresses, the music gets louder, providing the perfect transition into the nightclub. As the night goes on, the music gets louder, providing the perfect transition into a nightclub. La Terrazza (open in new tab), an open-air club overlooking the city, has long been a favorite.

If you fall in love with Barcelona, book your trip here (opens in new tab).

For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.

Click here to sign up (opens in new tab)