What would you suggest for an itinerary for 4-5 days in Barcelona. We'll be there during the big festival at the end of September so it will be very crowded. We are staying in an apartment in Eixample. How about a side trip to Gironda?

Girona is a very nice spot. Only an hour by train and (about 20min.) walk to town.
Highly recommended.

I recommend you start by reading Fodor's Barcelona. I have been reading it for several weeks and could answer your question from my reading. Then come back here and the experts will answer specific questions. That's what I intend to do. And, yes, I intend to go to Girona. It is in the book. Have a great trip.

One of the more interesting areas of Girona is The Call. This is the medieval Jewish community where the Kabbalah was first written.

As for Barcelona do all things Gaudi and dance the Sardana in front of the Cathedral with the Catalans. If you are a woman put your bag in the center with all the other bags and follow the steps and the music of the small band.

Does anyone think I will need tickets for Picasso or Miro museum ahead of time. I am only thinking about it because of the large festival and the fact that the city seems to be booked to full capacity.