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The art nouveau buildings of Antoni Gaudí, the 19th-century architect whose works are some of Barcelona’s most iconic sights, can be seen throughout Catalonia, but Barcelona has the best examples of his genius at work. Former residences of upper-class families, the Casa Milà (or La Pedrera), at 261-265 Provença, and Casa Batlló, at 43 Passeig de Gràcia, have their fair share of intricate wrought iron balconies and striking mosaic work to catch the eye. They can’t compare, however, with Gaudí’s imposing, and to date unfinished, church, the Sagrada Família. At a minimum, take a tour of one of these buildings—we recommend making time for all three.

Located on the National Mall, the Smithsonian Institution’s only modern art museum boasts the United States’ most comprehensive collection of 20th-century art, with more than 12,000 paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The spectrum and evolution of contemporary art are reflected in works from a diverse array of artists, including Matisse, Picasso, de Koonig, and Warhol. Adjacent to the museum, the 1.5-acre multi-terraced Sculpture Garden creates a tranquil area for viewing more than 60 sculptures, such as Rodin’s “Burghers of Calais,” which was nearly confiscated by the Nazis during World War II.