Casa Mila

Built as a vast private residence for wealthy developer Pere Mila and his even-more-minted missus, Rosario Segimon, Casa Mila is Gaudi's second most famous structure after La Sagrada Familia. The house's cliff-like walls immediately earned it the nickname La Pedrera, or 'The Quarry', amongst locals; and, although some may scoff, this rocky undulating facade is undoubtedly one of the most recognisable anywhere in the world. It's well worth braving the queues and forking out the ticket admission (around 11 euros) to take a look inside the Casa Mila with its two beautiful internal courtyards, the reconstructed 'La Pedrera apartment' and - best of all - access to the rooftop with its surreal chimneys (typical Gaudi!) and views over Barcelona. Find La Pedrera on the Passeig de Gracia along with other Modernista masterpieces Casa Battlo, Casa Lleó-Morera and Casa Amatller.

The Casa Mila is probably my favourite of the Gaudi experiences in Barcelona because you really get a feel of what apartments would like during the Modernista era. The interior of the flat which visitors are shown into is really well preserved and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. On the roof you can get up close to Gaudi's chimneys and there is also one floor devoted to the architect's models etc. for a more technical insight into his work.

Phenomenal building. The outside of La Pedrera is a little grey but the curves are an amazing slap in the face to conventional architecture. We had to queue for about half an hour to get in but it was worth it as the views from the roof over the Passeig de Gracia are tremendous.