Five days in Barcelona is definitely not enough time to see everything. But if you want to see most of it, it is doable. Let me share with you my trip not too long ago in Barcelona, Spain.
Attractions in Barcelona
One of Barcelona's most famous architecturer is Gaudi, and there are many places a tourist can go to see his work of art. My recommendation to everyone would be the following: Casa Batlo (http://www.casabatllo.es/en), La Pedrera (http://www.lapedrera.com/en/home), Sagrada Familia (http://www.sagradafamilia.org/en/), and Parc Guell (http://www.parkguell.cat/en/). An optional place to would be Guell Palau that is less touristy, but still an amazing place to go. For the places that I recommend, it would be wise to buy tickets online as these tickets are timed-tickets and could be sold out. I personally like Casa Batlo and Sagrada Familia the best when visiting. For the Gaudi attractions, I would definitely recommend everyone to spread it out in two days when visiting.
Shopping
Europe is definitely a place to shop! If you are a shopaholic like me, I would highly recommend you to shop along Passeige de Gracia. This is also where Casa Batlo and La Pedrera is located. It's a perfect place for a casual stroll after visiting some amazing attractions at Barcelona. Alternatively, there is an outlet just 1 hour drive outside of Barcelona called La Roca Village (http://www.larocavillage.com/). I was able to find some amazing deals at this place with heavy discounts. Comparing to other outlet malls, however, this one is less magnificent with fewer store selections, but definitely a fascinating and enjoyable place nonetheless.
Other Attractions
Aside from Barcelona, during the five days in Spain I have also joined tours with Viator (http://www.viator.com/) on some small excursions to Figueres, Costa Brava, and Montserrat. If you are an artsy person, you will probably be familiar with the artist, Dali. Figueres is the place where Dali grew up, and Costa Brava is his so-called "sanctuary" where all his inspirations comes to life. Of course, as most artists will know, Dali didn't become famous until he moved to New York. However, there are some interesting pieces of work you can check out at the Dali-Theatre Museum and Dali's "home" in Costa Brava.
To the end of my trip, I spent a day at the Montserrat (http://www.montserratvisita.com/en/index/html). I did book a tour with Viator as well. This place is a monk retreat, and is usually very very busy on a Sunday or holiday. My best advice is to go during a week day if you plan to go there. Things to do at Montserrat include: touching the Black Virgin Mary, going on a hike to see different view points, etc. On a good day, you will be able to see the Tibidabo from Montserrat. I did not have a chance to go to Tibidabo (http://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/attractions/tibidabo-barcelona.html), but apparently, it is a view point where you can see all of Barcelona.
Food
For delicious seafood, best in Barcelona, Botafumeiro (http://botafumerio.es/en/), is definitely on the top of my list. It is on the pricier end, but the food is fresh, top notch and the service is spectacular. I have never enjoyed seafood more. I would also highly recommend the seafood platter and the seafood paellas. If you can eat more, the grill fish is also delicious - not the typical grill fish - it is very juicy, fresh and just heavenly to my taste buds and tummy.
Second restaurant that I would recommend is El Asador de Aranda (www.asadordearanda.com). This place is famous for their fat black pork, but I'm not really a fan of pork. Don't worry! There are other options. I would highly recommend the volcanic hot stone cooked ox. It's an experience - trust me on this one.
Lastly, I would like to recommend the chain of restaurants in Spain called Grupo Tragaluz (http://grupotragaluz.com/). During my trip in Barcelona, I went to three of their restaurants including: Pez Vela (beside the W Hotel), Luiza (across from the Le Meridien Hotel), and Bar Lobo (beside Luiza). Several things you must try at Pez Vela would be their seafood tapas and their green pepper dish. I am not kidding! They are amazing! And with the view, it's just a great experience. At Luiza, I would highly recommend the wooden stove pizzas. And at Bar Lobo, the grilled shrimp.
And... Sangria is a must at all restaurants! After all, you are in Spain! Cheers! :)
