Walking from Passeig de Gracia to the Sagrada Familia you will find the stunning Casa Terrades, more commonly known as the Casa de les Punxes (loosely translated from Catalan as the house of needles). One glance and you’ll see why.

Barcelona's Casa de les Punxes, an urban fairytale castle

It occupies an entire (triangular) block in the Eixample Dreta area of Barcelona and while not exactly a hidden gem, is a delightful surprise for determined tourists and students of architecture alike.

It is a working building, with a bank, a upmarket specialist bookstore, a kitchen design centre on the ground floor, and offices and residencial apartments above. In early 2012 it is underwent some maintenance and was covered up but it is no back in its full glory.

The building is private and cannot be visited, but the portero (concierge) is usually friendly and if asked nicely I imagine would let you in to see the foyer.

Before continuing on to the Sagrada Familia there is a great coffee shop next door. La Danesa (the Danish woman) is right on the corner of the intersection of Avenguda Diagonal, Carrer de Rosellon, and happily just a fews step back from la casa de les Punxes. They do snacks and light lunches and it’s all prepared there in the kitchen. The staff are friendly and obliging and speak English. Highly recommended.

The outside terrace of La Danesa is beautifully located but can be noisy from the traffic of Diagonal wizzing past just inches away, or inside is a gorgeous mid-morning suntrap. I recommend the chocolate-chip cookies.

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If you are considering a romantic getaway then Barcelona is the ideal choice. Just look at all the activities there are to enjoy in this bustling Spanish city.

Barcelona is perfect for a romantic break

Hot Air Balloon Ride

What could be more romantic than a trip in a hot air balloon? There is nowhere better to enjoy this once in a lifetime experience. The journey provides you with breathtaking views of Barcelona and the surrounding countryside. The trip includes pick up and drop off from your city centre accommodation too so it couldn’t be easier to arrange. You can find out more about this trip here.

Visit to The Magic Fountain

At night time this incredible fountain is lit up beautifully and displays some incredible water formations too. There is even accompanying music too that makes witnessing the event truly magical. It is a real spectacle and for a romantic getaway to Barcelona it’s an absolute must see. It is situated near the the Palau Nacional. There is more information and a bit about the history of the fountain available here.

A Night at the Opera

If you enjoy Opera then don’t miss out on seeing a production in the world renowned venue of The Gran Teatre del Liceu. This venue is lucky to still be standing in light of the two fires that have broken out there and a bombing during the war. It is a legendary theatre among Opera goers from around the world so take advantage of it if you can while visiting Barcelona.

As well as these activities and trips there are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy as well as beaches to stroll along. Barcelona is a fantastic place for a romantic weekend – it certainly gives Paris a run for its money!