Gaudí Architecture Walk with Sagrada Família, Barcelona

Antoni Gaudí's and his architectural works aren't just a part of Barcelona—they are Barcelona. Join an expert private guide to find Gaudí's influence everywhere, from the city's streetlights and fountains to its parks, museums, and monuments. You'll start on the famous Passeig de Grácia, home to early 20th-century mansions built by the city's bourgeoisie. Stop to admire the Block of Discord, a set of three modernist buildings sharing the same facade. The first is Casa Lleò Morera, designed by Domènech i Montaner; next is Casa Amatller, designed by Puig i Cadafalch; and finally, Casa Batlló, by Antoni Gaudí.

Since this is a Gaudí walk, your attention is on Casa Batlló and its unique facade. The building is a modernist masterpiece of a residential building, often referred to by locals as Casa dels Ossos (House of Bones) for its skeletal design, with skulls for balconies and bones for pillars. Though you won't go inside the building, you'll learn all about its exteriors. Next, stroll down to Casa Milà. After admiring the facade, you'll head inside, where each room works as an exhibition of how the interiors looked under the Milà family. But the highlight is the rooftop, with its chimneys and ventilation towers turned into sculptures.

Of course, no Gaudí-themed walk is complete without visiting the architect's most famous masterpiece, the Roman-Catholic church, La Sagrada Família. Since this is a private tour, you can pay for a taxi or ride the metro, both about a 10-minute journey. Then, join your guide as you observe the exteriors and interiors of the structure, which is still under construction. The church has three outer facades: Nativity represents the birth of Christ and symbolizes the three stages of life; Passion signifies the stages of Jesus, including passion, death, and resurrection; and Glory is all about Christ's eternal life in heaven.

Follow your guide inside to observe Gaudí's signature design using geometric shapes, a love of colors, and natural elements. Notice the vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and the apse (the half-domed roof) in the shape of trees. Other highlights include places like the altar, organ pipes, chapels, and the Crypt Of The Expiatory Temple, where you'll find Gaudí's burial site. Afterward, you'll say farewell to your guide and have free time to continue exploring the church or enjoy its two parks. You'll find ideal spots for photos in Plaça de Gaudí, with its small pond reflecting the architect's masterpiece.