Parc Guell Barcelona
This 50-acre (20 hectare) greenway was originally conceived as a "city within a city" for Barcelona's elite. Gaudi himself intended to build a fairytale world, which would provide an escape from the city. 60 homes were to be built along with a market place and other community buildings. The vision was never realized and in 1927 the city converted Gaudi's dream into a park. It is best to enter the park from the rear and ascend to the top of the hill via the outdoor escalators.

What awaits you can only be described as a whimsical experience. No stuffy statues here; what you will find are mosaic covered dragons, benches that undulate like waves and bright colorful ceramics everywhere. The magnificent double staircase is the centerpiece of the park, leading you to the columned marketplace. This is a great place for a stroll or to see more of the creative genius of the man who left his mark on so much of his beloved city.