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Tourist guide: what to do and see in Barcelona
The diverse and welcoming city of Barcelona.
Barcelona has as many different styles as people walking through its streets, welcoming you and inviting you to explore the thousand sides to this enchanting city. Its vast array of different areas offer a sensorial delight, with the delicious smells of its typical gastronomy, music and theatrical performances in the streets, the magnificent architecture of its most emblematic buildings, the Mediterranean sea breeze and its bustling, colourful nightlife. Don’t miss this wonderfully diverse destination that gives everything it has to those who visit, and leaves you with the feeling of having explored several different places at once.
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
The 'Swallows' ('Golondrinas')
They sound like birds, but they're not. These are the tourist boats that offer a completely different view of the city.
Views from the sea.
Did you think swallows were birds? Well, in Barcelona, they’re boats! These tourist boats offer a view of the city from the sea. Its port, one of the prettiest after its renovation a few years ago, has been the main Mediterranean port for centuries. So why not get to know the city from the water? There are several options, but the most fun way to do this is to take a Golondrina (Swallow). You can get one from the pier, next to the Columbus statue. These boats take you along the entire coast of Barcelona and provide information on the history of the city. This is bound to be a unique experience! If you would prefer a more intimate journey, we recommend the Orsom Catamaran. This is an enormous, beautiful boat, which leaves from the same pier, and takes you on a more personal tour of Barcelona’s five kilometres of coastline. And we’ll give you a tip: if you take the last boat of the day, you’ll be able to see the sunset from a boat, while a jazz band entertains you. This is a unique experience that not many people know about!
Barcelona Zoo
Ideal for children and animal lovers, this zoo is home to all kinds of animals and its shows are worth watching.
For the little ones.
If you like animals, or are travelling with small children, don’t miss the zoo. This is a gigantic space, which will change your perception of zoos forever. This is a journey through the jungle, the desert and the sea all at once. On this journey, you will see all kinds of animals, including monkeys jumping from branch to branch, hippos and the King of the Jungle, the lion, watching over his pride. One of Barcelona Zoo’s main appeals is that it combines the different natural environments found all over the world, as well as combining education with fun. The Aquarama zone is an enormous lake, where friendly dolphins entertain you with their juggling and aquatic games. You can also visit the Terrarium, which is home to a vast array of exotic reptiles and giant snakes. If you are with very small children, we recommend leaving this area out of your itinerary and heading to the Palm zone, a beautiful park, where they can play just like the monkeys.
CosmoCaixa
A wonderful experience, combining the recreation of natural spaces and processes with interesting scientific explanations. Impressive!
A natural and scientific experience.
They say a visit to the Cosmo Caixa is a different and unforgettable experience, so you’ll have to see for yourself. This space has been transformed into one of the most attractive and visited places in Barcelona. The Cosmo Caixa centre has been a world pioneer in recreating several natural spaces, which are guaranteed not to disappoint. Firstly, the Geological Wall combines seven different areas of geological displays for your observation. They also recreate natural processes in real time, ending in the state they are in today. Secondly, the Flooded Forest is an exact replica of a part of the flooded forest in the Amazon. They have perfectly reproduced all its species of animals, as well as its vegetation. The Hall of Matter spans over 3,500 square metres, and is dedicated to the scientific explanation of matter. From the Big Bang to the present day, theories of time and space are explained in a fun way for every type of visitor. The Planetarium shows the evolution of the universe, the positioning of the constellations and much, much more. Cosmo Caixa offers an entertaining scientific explanation of the world we live in.
Born By Night
Here you will find the best wines in the city and a sophisticated and cosmopolitan atmosphere in a monumental setting.
The 'coolest' area to have fun in.
Imagine a mixture of Medieval, Gothic and Modernist roads and monuments, the best wines you can find and a sophisticated and cosmopolitan atmosphere. This is the Born neighbourhood. Like a continuation of the Gothic Quarter, this area is found on the other side of Laietana Street.Born is the ‘coolest’ area in Barcelona, particularly when it comes to leisure and fashion. Luxury shops and businesses have set up shop in the streets here, including the Custo designers. In Montcada Street, just before the Picasso Museum, El Xampanyet welcomes you to one of the best places to sample cava in the city. The 15th century Church of the Sea is located at the heart of the neighbourhood. It was traditionally known as the ‘village church’, as the upper classes would attend mass at the Cathedral. At night, its streets are filled with sounds from bars and terraces, where wine flows just as easily as conversation.
Sitges
Famous for its Film Festival, Sitges offers several other charming attractions, such as its endless beaches and Mediterranean vegetation.
An enclave fit for the big screen.
Sitges has managed to stop time. It is a little coastal village, half an hour (around 35 kilometres) from Barcelona. This old fishing village boast a plethora of endless beaches. Like the vast majority of cities in this area, its origins lie in the Roman Empire and peninsula. Used as a gateway to Spain, the Romans built several different settlements, which gave rise to the cities we know today. Despite being famous for hosting the annual International Film Festival, Sitges retains its character of a small village, where everybody knows and greets each other on a daily basis. At the top of the Bartomeu Church (known as ‘La Punta’), you will find cannons facing the sea, which tell the history of the village’s defence against pirate attacks and sieges in the 18th century. Behind here, is the Can Falç Garden, with its white façades, surrounding vegetation and mixture of colours, making it one of the most Mediterranean places you can find. These streets have been the setting for numerous films, including ‘Who Can Kill a Child?’ directed by Ibáñez Serrador.
Tarragona
Roman and Medieval vestiges adorn the city. The arena, amphitheatre and King's Castle are all prime examples.
Roman heritage.
The city of Tarragona holds a large amount of Spanish history in its stone streets. The old ‘Tarraco’ was founded in the Roman Empire, around the year 217 B.C.. It is therefore one of the most important Roman Enclaves of the Empire, and was one of the posts of entry to the peninsula. In fact, Tarragona was the capital of Hispania during this era, which has allowed it to retain a large amount of its urban legacy of that time. Buildings, such as the arena, the amphitheatre, the city walls and the aqueduct, built during the Scipio reign, are still there to visit. You can also go up the Scipio Tower, where you can observe the view and imagine what the city once looked like. Wandering around the city, you will also see vestiges left behind from the Middle Ages, such as the Cathedral and the King’s Castle, which still plays a key role in the city’s business. Its streets show the passing of time through the city, ending at the 20th century Modernist Metropol Theatre and Ripoll House. Tarragona’s large port is also the starting point of endless kilometres of beautiful white sand beaches.
Port Aventura
If you're travelling with young ones, visit one of the best theme parks in the world. Fun for all the family!
A paradise of fun.
Port Aventura is a fantastic day trip and adventure, in the form of a theme park for all ages, located in the outskirts of Tarragona. It comprises a theme park and a water park, and sees four million visitors pass through its gates every year. The park is a paradise for children and youths. It opened its doors in 1995, with six large areas dedicated to rides, namely the Mediterranean, Polynesia, China, Mexico, Far West and Sesame Adventures. The décor, the atmosphere, the street performances and the rides have made this one of the most successful theme parks in the world. Although its main focus is children, adults are bound to have a good time too, on rides such as the famous Dragon Khan, a rollercoaster in a Chinese setting, which can reach a speed of 110 kilometres per hour and loops 8 times in a row. This is one of the most famous rides in the world. The water rides help refresh with a good dunking, particularly during the summer months. Every day ends with a fireworks display and performances in the Mediterranean zone, to remind visitors that Port Aventura is more than just a theme park.
Food and Drink in Barcelona
This city offers an endless list of nightlife options, appealing to any taste and budget.
The night is young.
Barcelona by night is completely different to what it is during the day. The city offers atmospheric areas catering to any taste. If you want to dine out, the port area is home to a large number of bars and restaurants. But the Mare Magnum walkway is possibly the most attractive area. The actual Mare Magnum building is surrounded by a walkway used as a breakwater, and stretches out into the sea, making the perfect place to sit and eat dinner. Any of the restaurants here have a terrace and, weather permitting, you can dine surrounded by boats and the Mediterranean Sea. For a later night plan, almost all the central areas have a great atmosphere, but the best are the Gothic Quarter, the Raval and La Rambla, as they combine the cosmopolitan and the old neighbourhood atmospheres. You can walk to any of these areas from the port. At night, these stone streets are lively and filled with people outside bars and pubs. Both Real Plaza and Seu Plaza have a thoroughly enjoyable nocturnal atmosphere, and it is not uncommon to see tourists and locals drinking their first drink of the night outside the Cathedral.
Aquarium
One of the most important aquariums in the world is sure to astound you with its variety of marine wildlife.
Finding Nemo.
This is the largest public sea life centre in Europe, and one of the most important in the world, due to the amount of species that live here and the mixture of ecosystems set up inside here. Inside, over 11,000 specimens and 450 different species await you. Whether you visit as a family, or are interested in the world of the sea, this aquarium is a fascinating visit. It is divided into four large zones. One zone is dedicated to the Mediterranean and focuses on the different species that live in the sea surrounding the city. There is another, more exotic zone, which focuses on flora and fauna of tropical areas. The installations include an 80 metre long tunnel, where you can observe sharks, Galapagos turtles and a vast array of fish. This is one of the most impressive parts of the visit. Also, although restricted to those who possess a diving license, you can also dive and swim with marine wildlife, and observe sharks from up close.
Saint Jordi Palace
The most important work in the sports complex, created for Bacelona '92. Its cultural and sports programme is extremely interesting.
The F.C. Barcelona basketball court.
The Barcelona Olympic Games in 1992 brought about important development to the city on several levels, one of which is the construction of installations throughout the city. For example, Mount Montjuic is home to what is known as the ‘Olympic Ring’. Numerous parks, gardens, pathways and green spaces for visiting tourists were set up around the entire mountain, as was an enormous sports complex for the celebration of the actual games. The Saint Jordi Palace is the most significant work in this ring. Aftet the Olympic Games, the Palace became the main place to celebrate large cultural and sports shows. The complex includes the regular basketball court for the F.C. Barcelona Basketball team, and regularly welcomes tennis, swimming, handball and athletics championships, such as the David Cup, two finals of the Final Four from the Eurobasket league, and various handball championship finals. With regard to culture, the Palace is often chosen to host some of the largest, most important concerts in the city. Check out their programme.
Mireya Ruiz and Bad Habits
Mireya dresses women in an innovative, unconventional fashion. Bad Habits is known worldwide.
Unique fashion.
Even if you aren’t an avid follower of fashion, you must know that Mireya Ruiz has been one of the most renowned players in the design world for the past few years. She is one of the main ambassadors of fashion in both Barcelona and the world. Since 2000, when she became internationally recognised, she has been a regular on the most important catwalks, and is known worldwide for her original and innovative designs, which focus on the female population. She opened her first shop called Bad Habits on Sol Plaza in Barcelona in 1993.Then, in 1996, she inaugurated her second boutique of the same name. Since then, these Bad Habits establishments are a must-visit for thousands of fashion fanatics, as well as those who are simply searching for different fashions, along with the changing of seasons. Even though you can find her brand in other establishments, her own shops offer exclusive products. The Bad Habits shops are famous for dressing women differently, so if you’re looking for something less conventional and more original, this is the shop for you.
Las Arenas Shopping Centre – Pl. Espanya
Barcelona's first bullring is now a shopping centre. This restructuring project is worthy of praise.
A monumental shopping spree.
Crowning España Plaza, next to Montjuic, is Las Arenas bullring. This was the first bullring built in Barcelona in 1900. This arena has seen important bullfighting nights, but saw its last ever on the 25th of September, 2011. The arean then shut its doors to the bullfighting world and began its restructuring works. Now a shopping centre, Las Arenas comprises all the original installations, converted into a complex of over 30,000 square metres. Inside, there are twelve cinema theatres, the Barcelona Rock Museum, a gym, a thermal spa to relax the visitor, and a large variety of shops, from name-brand clothing to small boutiques owned by local designers. Even if you don’t want to go shopping, it is worth entering this building to witness the impressive outcome of an original and enormous project of converting the old bullring into today’s installations.
What to bring back from Barcelona?
Wonderful Barcelona offers plenty of gastronomic sounvenirs to take home with you. Desserts, cava and deli products are the best option.
Memories of Barcelona.
If you’re wondering what to bring home with you as a souvenir of Barcelona, the answer is any gastronomic product. The city is famous for its wines, spirits, sausages and cheese. But don’t forget that Barcelona has a reputation for being sweet! There are plenty of bakeries all over the city, where you can buy all kinds of cakes and chocolates, typical to the area. We recommend Petritxol Street, where you will find several bakeries offering a large selection of traditional desserts. Another option is to bring back a bottle of local wine or cava. Although Cordoniu and Freixenet are the most emblematic brands, you can find them everywhere. This is why we recommend going to one of the many wine shops in the Gothic Quarter. Here, they can give you advice on what type of drink to being back with you as a souvenir. They will also gladly explain the history behind every bottle! If you’re thinking of bring food back with you, stop by on of the many delicatessens found all over the city, such as on La Rambla and Gracia Avenue.
Portal de l’Ángel
Due to progress made on this busy street, luxury shops are dotted in between local, more traditional shops.
Luxury and local shops.
The Portal L’Angel Street links Catalonia Plaza with the Gothic Quarter, as a continuation of Gracia Avenue. However, the atmosphere changes gradually along the way. Despite being part of the ‘Golden Square’, with many luxury and popular brand-name shops, the street transforms into more of a ‘neighbourhood’ street further down. Here, the abovementioned shops are mixed with small, family-run businesses, artisanal shops and local restaurants. Also, if you move away from the main street and wander into the winding alleys that cross the street, you will find many pedestrian zones. This whole shopping area is in one of the most emblematic, Modernist districts of Barcelona, which gives it a special appeal. Once you reach the Gothic Quarter, shops are scattered throughout the area’s streets. Past Sant Jaume Square, the Cathedral and Ferran Street, you will find all types of souvenirs.
Gracia Avenue
History, finance and shopping, all in the city's popular gold square: Gracia Avenue and La Rambla.
The 'Golden Square'.
The area from Gracia Avenue to La Rambla is commonly referred to as ‘The Golden Square’. This is the city’s historic zone, which is also the financial hub and major shopping area of Barcelona. You will find all types of shops lining this street, from well-known names of the fashion world (such as Zara, Mango and H&M) to a vast quantity of brands considered ‘made in Barcelona’, found in places like the Bulevar Rosa, a shopping centre at the start of your shopping itinerary. This is located on the corner of Gracia Avenue and La Rambla, and is a prime example of Barcelona fashion, combining internationally known shops and those owned by Catalonian and Spanish designers, such as Antoni Miro, Antonio Pernas and Roberto Verino. This area boasts shops, cafes, restaurants and large park to relax in. The Old Town begins at the end of the road, where you can continue your exploration of the city.
Conti
Its constant queues and influx of visitors reflect this indisputable key player in Barcelona fashion.
An obligatory stop on your shopping itinerary.
Conti shops in Barcelona have become an institution in the fashion world. Conti has four shops specialising in brand clothing and the newest trends. Its prices and catalogue have made it a go-to shop in Barcelona. The opening of its newest shops, along with the arrival of new collections (advertised in advance on the Internet), made for enormous queues outside its establishments. On a daily basis, its large installations allow customers to peacefully search for bargains and new products. The shops are located at 512 Diagonal Avenue, 78 La Rambla, 57 Aribau Street and 7 Pau Casals Avenue. All the shops are located in fashionable shopping areas, so won’t have to go far to visit them. If you are looking for something in particular, you can immediately look up their available items on their web page.
Custo Barcelona
A symbol of Barcelona's image worldwide, the United States is its main Achilles' heel.
T-shirts with unmistakable prints.
Designer Angel Custodio Dalmau Salmons is one of the most influential figures in international fashion. With particular success in the United States, it has been the symbol of Barcelona’s image worldwide for years. Its progress in the fashion world began when it partnered with the Barcelona brand, Meyba. After eleven years of partnership, Salmons moved to the United States with his brother, where they made a name for themselves in the international fashion world, and brought their own brand to light. In 1996, the brand reappeared in the fashion world as ‘Custo of Barcelona’, now simply ‘Custo Barcelona’, and has gained international acclaim on catwalks in New York, Barcelona and Japan. Its shirts have appeared on popular American television series, such as ‘Friends’ and ‘Sex and the City’, which have made the brand even more successful. The brand has shops all over the world, with over five in Barcelona. You can visit the flagship store at 120 La Rambla. Although the printed t-shirts are their most famous item, they sell all sorts of clothing and accessories.
City Markets
A whole range of markets for all tastes, shapes and colours. A real treasure trove!
Antiques for everyone.
Every Saturday at the crack of dawn, locals and storekeepers of the area set up the Antique Market in the Gothic Quarter, next to the Cathedral. This market started in 1978 as an initiative of the locals, in order to attract people to the world of antiques and sell items they no longer wanted in their homes. It gradually grew, and now offers all sorts of things, from discontinued books, to antique photos of the city. Another market not to be missed is the famous ‘Els Encants Vells’ market, located in Glories Catalanes Square every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Here you will find absolutely everything, from objects that are no longer made, to the most sought-after pieces of technology. This market has been running since the 14th century, and is one of the oldest in Europe. We recommend a weekday visit, to avoid Saturday crowds.
Mare Magnum
Pure leisure, with a sea breeze, relaxed atmosphere and surroundings connected to the beaches and coastline.
Shops, restaurants and lots of boats!
Mare Magnum is a striking glass building, located at Barcelona port. It was built during the port’s renovations in 2000. You will find halfway along Paseo Maritimo, at the end of La Rambla, next to the statue of Columbus. Mare Magnum has become one of the city’s main leisure centres, and is a mixture of shops, eateries and many, many boats. Its surroundings include wooden walkways and well-kept garden areas, which connect to the area’s beaches. These mark the beginning of the route you can take, to cover the whole city along its coastlines. You can rent a bicycle on-site to do just this. It has therefore become a popular meeting point in the city, offering a great atmosphere. Here you will see people shopping, tourists exploring the port and those who have come for a bite to eat after a day at the beach.
Shopping in Born
If you're looking for innovative, avant-garde and exclusive shops, this bohemian, chic area is the place to be!
The Soho of Barcelona.
Two words describe this neighbourhood: innovative and avant-garde. The past few years have seen the Born district transform into the city’s fashionable shopping area. It is known as the ‘Bohemian district’, ‘the Soho of Barcelona’ and the ‘trendy neighbourhood’. Here you will find a web of streets, located behind Barceloneta, just a stone’s throw from the beaches. This old neighbourhood combines contemporary establishments, with 19th century historic, Modernist buildings. It is said that the key to this district is the fact that new fashion designers have chosen to establish themselves here. Two of the best things about the shops here are the exclusive shops, specialising in innovative and avant-garde clothing, and the workshops and showcases of these designers, who wish to display their newest creations. From clothing to footwear, you will find some of the most daring and original styles here. But you must remember that this is one of the city’s most expensive areas.
Fórum Park
Filled with the sounds of its popular festivals and numerous concerts, its gardens are also worth a visit.
Summercase and Primavera Sound.
The Forum Park or Forum Zone is found behind the Barceloneta neighbourhood, away from the centre. It comprises enormous installations, built in an old district, for the celebration of the Universal Culture Forum in 2004. During its construction, it was the subject of many controversies, due to the large investment made by the city and the area it occupies. However, it is now an incredible park at the edge of the beach, with numerous footpaths and gardens, where you can take a stroll and play sports. It also hosts several concerts throughout the year, particularly in the summer. The Forum building is a surprising, original construction, suspended mid-air! With 17 supporting points, the building looks like it is floating. Inside, you will find an enormous concert hall and an exhibition hall, which is open to the public. It is connected by underground walkway to the Barcelona International Convention Centre. The Forum Park hosts the popular annual Summercase and Primavera Sound festivals.
Barceloneta
The history of this fishing village, located in the middle of the large city, is told in its worn saltpetre and 19th century houses…
Smell the salty sea air in this neighbourhood.
Barceloneta is the place for fishermen, and is a slice of tranquillity amid the hustle and bustle of the big city. It is surprising how this little neighbourhood remains an oasis of peace, surrounded by a metropolis. This area became inhabited in the 18th century by fishermen, in order to be close to the port. It still retains a large amount of its original buildings, which, despite the worn saltpetre, tell the history of Barceloneta. Today, it is an interesting combination of fishing village and a port, which sees the arrival of some of the most luxurious boats in the city. Its roads also boast some of the most luxurious and prestigious restaurants in the area and, beside all of it, is the Barceloneta Beach. This is the most popular beach in Barcelona, with a lively atmosphere both by day and by night, when crowds fill the food and drink stands along the beach.
Monumental Plaza
This is still one of our top 3 squares, even though there haven't been any bulls here, since the controversial decision to abolish bullfighting in 2011.
White flags in the wind.
Barcelona’s La Monumental was, it its time, the most important bullring in the world, along with La Maestranza in Seville and Las Ventas in Madrid. Since its inauguration in 1914, La Monumental has received some of the most important bullfighters through the ages. It was the setting for the famous day, when the three Giron brothers (Cesar, Rafael and Curro, three of the most distinguished names in the bullfighting world) braved the bulls together in 1956. In more recent times, La Monumental has the honour of receiving the much-awaited return of Jose Tomas from Madrid, after five years of retirement from bullfighting. This was one of the last times the bullring was filled, as the Catalonian Parliament abolished bullfighting in Barcelona in 2011. This was highly controversial and divided the city’s population into sympathisers and abolitionists, with the end result winning 68 to 55 votes. Today, you will find Las Arenas Shopping Centre here, and the square also hosts musical performances and other large events. Once known as ‘one of the world’s top three bullfighting capitals’, this city is full of surprises.
España Plaza
This plays a key role in Barcelona's urban network, and is one of the city's main routes.
Born in 1929.
Are you ready to see the second largest square in Spain? Barcelona’s España Plaza was built in 1929 and was the starting point for the main road that connected the city to the country’s capital. Although this route is no longer in use, it is still one of the most travelled areas in Barcelona. It connects four of the city’s main roads, as it is right in the centre, between Gran Via de Las Cortes Catalanas, Tarragona Street, Creu Coberta Street and Maria Cristina Avenue. At the very end, Montjuic Park awaits you. In the same square, you will also find the old bullring, commonly known as ‘La Monumental’, which is now Las Arenas Shopping Centre. In the middle of the square is a fountain, which sits where the enormous cross of the square’s initial project used to be found. This cross symbolised the city’s border. Behind the shopping and monumental area, you will find the Joan Miro Park, a large green space, ideal for some rest and relaxation. From here, you can walk through Las Cortes Street to get back to the city centre.
Palm Tree Square (Plaza Real)
This Neoclassical square, adorned with thousands of palm trees and stylish lampposts designed by Gaudi, does not go unnoticed.
The most Royal of squares.
Palm Tree Square is actually called Plaza Real (Royal Plaza), and is one of the most magical areas of Barcelona. Go down La Rambla and halfway down the avenue, you will find an alleyway which will lead you away from the crowds and into Palm Tree Square. Plaza Real is also known as the gateway to the Gothic Quarter. Built in the mid-19th century, this Neoclassical Square has not changed over time, apart from the addition of numerous palm trees, which give it its name, and the Gaudi contributions. Can you spot the lampposts designed by the Barcelona architect? It isn’t too difficult, as they are in the middle of the square and their unique shape makes them stand out from the rest. This lampposts surround a central fountain, which, along with the rest of the square’s décor, make for a perfectly cool and tranquil area in which to relax. At the edges of the square in the arcades, there are several terraces, where you can sit and observe the painters, jugglers and musicians who animate the square. Even when night falls, this area stays calm, despite being just a few steps from the hustle and bustle of La Rambla.
Gothic Quarter
An historical labyrinth with a Medieval air, that holds both secrets of the past, and diverse shops of the present.
If the walls could talk…
The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona holds the origins of the city in its stone alleyways and Medieval buildings. Wandering through the streets, you will stumble upon walls that bore witness to the birth of the roman village that Barcelona once was. Don’t forget to look up, and take care not to get lost in the labyrinth this area has become. Today, buildings from the Middle Ages live harmoniously alongside 20th century buildings, which is why the Gothic Quarter is a prime example of each historic period Barcelona lived through. Visit the Saint Eulalia Cathedral and end up in Saint Jaume Square, home to impressive buildings, such as the Town Hall and the Palau de La Generalitat. From here, Ferran Street will lead you to the Plaza Real. This whole area is filled with shops, but is great for a calm stroll. At the end is the Jewish Quarter. Although it was abolished over six centuries ago, it is still possible to find vestiges of this settlement in squares and buildings. This neighbourhood is located between Catalunya Plaza and Columbus Avenue, with La Rambla on one side, and Laietana Street on the other.
Poble Espanyol
This spectacular open-air museum includes shops and workshops. How impressive!
A journey back in time.
A visit to the Poble Espanyol Museum will take you on a journey back in time. Built between 1926 and 1929, this was one of the main attractions at the International Expo that the city hosted in 1929. The initial project was to build and open-air museum, which demonstrated the most emblematic and significant architectural constructions in Spain. They not only achieved this goal, but transformed this area into one of the world’s most spectacular museums. The project was due to end after six months (when the Expo ended), but, due to its great success, is still one of the city’s main attractions to this day. Located on Montjuic, it takes up a large part of the mountain and comprises 117 buildings, streets and squares from all over the country. It also houses shops and workshops, manned by artisanal tradesmen, specialising in sculpting and crafting precious metals. Learn how craftsmen of the area work, and discover how things are made, from ceramics to carpentry. Inside, you will find the Fran Daurel Fondation, a large contemporary art exhibition. Its roads are filled with magic, where you can often see street theatre, concerts and markets.
Las Ramblas
A colourful avenue, filled with news stands, trees, pedestrians, stone benches, taxis, shops, bars, restaurants… and the list goes on.
A colourful, cobbled walkway.
From Catalunya Plaza to the city’s old port, runs an avenue filled with trees, news stands, street theatre and coloured cobblestones. This is La Rambla. This road sees people coming from work, young people in shops, paper deliverymen, black and yellow taxis, all types of improvised shows and dressed up spectators from the Liceo Theatre. Perpendicular roads lead to places like Pal Tree Square, the Gothic Quarter and, at the top, Gracia Avenue. The crowd never dies down, regardless of what time of day it is. This is one of the most visited shopping areas in Barcelona, where you will find almost anything you could ever need. When the sun sets, it is transformed into a lively avenue filled with bars, restaurants and pubs, filtering its animated atmosphere into the side street that run off it after hours. At the end of the street, the Columbus statue welcomes you to the Mare Magnum shopping centre, and shows you the way up the long road that surrounds Barcelona port.
Montjuïc
This will forever be remembered wolrdwide, for the role it played in the Barcelona Olympic Games. Unforgettable!
Naturally majestic.
Welcome to the park of water, lights and magic. The Montjuic Park is located in the outskirts of Barcelona, at the foothills of the mountain of the same name. This is just one of the many parks surrounding the mountain. This area hosted the International Expo in 1929 and, since then, has become a labyrinth of green spaces and pathways to get lost in. This area also welcomed the Barcelona Olympic Games in 1992, transforming it into the city’s main recreational area for tourists and locals. It is also home to the Botanical Gardens, the Joan Brossa Gardens, the Petra Kelly Garden of aquatic flowers and the Migdia Park of desert vegetation, famous for their diverse flora. At the end of the route round Montjuic, you will find the old Greek theatre and the Joan Miro Foundation. Montjuic Mountain and its parks are under the watchful eye of the castle at its peak. This is an old watchtower, which, during the reign of Felipe IV, was used to warn citizens of possible pirate invasions in the city.
Park Güell
A perfect combination of nature and architecture, Spain's most famous lizard lives in this special park.
Absolute green magic.
The location of this park, along with its vegetation, landscapes, views, colours and architecture, make for one of the most magical places you could visit. This is an enormous amount of land in the north of Barcelona, which aristocrat and industrialist Eusebi Güell ordered to have made in 1922, to make a city of gardens in which the bourgeoisie and upper classes could establish themselves. He modelled it on cities that he had seen on his visit to England. So he called upon Gaudi. The businessman wanted to get back in touch with nature. However, the project was never completed, and it was put on hold until the city council decided to make it into a public park. And it is the largest and most spectacular public park the city has to offer. Enter at Olot Street, where you will find two rounded pavilions, where the famous coloured lizard scales the steps. This is one of the most famous parts of the park. You should also visit the Hipostila hall (to count the 86 Doric columns that support it), the Turo de les Creus and the lookout point at the top, offering stunning views of the entire city. Impressive.
Avant-garde Cuisine
Catalonian gastronomy: a prime example of the world's unique dishes.
Traditional versus avant-garde.
Despite the traditional Catalonian cuisine’s great popularity, the city has become a Mecca for avant-garde and innovative cuisine. The city has a world-class reputation for signature cuisine. Without a doubt, prestigious chef Ferran Adria contributed to putting Barcelona on the culinary map. Born in Barcelona in 1962, Adria has been awarded three Michelin stars (the most in the restaurant world) and his restaurant El Bulli has been named the best restaurant in the world on five separate occasions since 2002. However, the owner decided to temporarily shut it down in 2011. The city of Barcelona has exploited this gastronomic recognition. If you are looking for a good restaurant and good food, with a touch of innovation, we recommend Casa Calvet, located at number 48, Casp Street. This is an historical building, decorated by Gaudi, and its food is the some of the most famous in the city. They serve typical dishes with a twist, which is guaranteed to be something you have never seen before.
Barcelona Tapas Places
Once again, the Gothic Quarter triumphs in its gastronomic offerings. Quick, declicious and cheap tapas!
Grab a quick, cheap bite to eat.
In the centre of Barcelona and want to grab a bite to eat? Don’t want to waste too much time or money? Head straight to the Gothic Quarter and discover a plethora of bars, restaurants and terraces, where you can sample a delicious dish or small snack portions, while you take in one of the city’s most charismatic neighbourhoods. If you want to grab some tapas on a terrace, or small dishes in a bar, this is the perfect time to sample some of Barcelona’s typical gastronomy. The large majority of bars will serve botifarra, different kinds of pastries, ‘suquet’ and tuna with samfaina sauce, as well as regional wines and cava to perfectly accompany your meal. Any of the places around the Cathedral are perfect for this, and we recommend ‘bar-hopping’ around this area. One place that has become an institution for desserts is Belgious, which specialises in ice cream and all the different types of Catalonian desserts, from Catalonian cream, to sweet pastries. This is found at number 50 on Avinyo Street. Don’t miss out!
Where to eat calçotadas?
Where to eat a good 'calçotada'? On farms, or in the Horta and Guinardo neighbourhoods.
Yum… delicious 'calçotadas'!
If you want to try ‘calçots’, they are easily found in several restaurants in the city centre. This is a common dish that is served as a starter or main course in most restaurants. If you want to try ‘calçotadas’, it gets a little trickier. We recommend leaving the city centre and visiting several farms, which offer exceptional ‘calçotadas’, such as Masía Can Portell (on Vallvidrera Road at Molins de Rei, 6 kilometres away). This old building is located in the middle of the Collserola natural park, only 10 minutes from Barcelona, and offers great traditional Catalonian gastronomy. The ‘calçotadas’ are exquisite, and you can try all sorts of typical Catalonian dishes. If you don’t want to leave the centre, we recommend visiting the numerous places that specialise in this dish, such as the Braseria Catedra on Laietana Street, which specialises in this type of cuisine. The neighbourhoods of Horta and Guinardo are also very popular, and we recommend these restaurants, even though they are not in the centre. These are less touristy and serve typical dishes at a much more reasonable price.
Calçot Spring Onions
Don't leave Barcelona without having tried genuine Catalonion onions, a unique delicacy only found in this region.
Exceptional onions.
‘Calçots’ are a variety of onion, typical to Catalonia. They come from the Alt Camp and western parts of the region, but you can find ‘calçotadas’ (the name for this dish) all over the region. The world ‘calçot’ means to bury. They are called this, because their seeds bury themselves under a cape of soil, in order to grow their white stalks. When these stalks reach 25 to 25 centimetres, they are pulled up and cooked on slabs or hot coal. They are left to cook until their outer layer turns black, then they are left to cook in their own heat. This is how the popular ‘calçotadas’ dish is made. They are normally served with meat and botifarra dishes of the area. It is said that their origin lies in a peasant who accidentally lefts his onions out to cook, and then realised that, with their outer burn layer removed, they were truly delicious. These are traditionally served at the end of winter and the start of spring, when the ‘calçots’ emerge. However, you can find ‘calçotadas’ any time of the year.
Catalonian Pastry
Although there are thousands of variations, if you are there in June, get the 'Coca de San Juan'. Yum!
The pizza's twin sister.
You’ll see it plastered over almost all restaurant and bar menus. The Catalonian pastry, or ‘coca’, is the most popular food of the region. They say it’s the pizza’s twin sister, as it has the same origin. Although the term ‘coca’ refers to a large variety of parties, cakes and breads, they are all based on toasted bread with other ingredients on top. The pastries can be sweet or savoury, and there are infinite combinations, but some are a must-try. The San Juan pastry is savoury, with a samfaina, tuna and onion base. As its name indicates, it is a typical dish served on the 23rd of June festival to celebrate the shortest night of the year. It is important to remember that this dish is typically served at festivals, giving rise to separate recipes for each festivity. The savoury ingredient options available will entirely depend on the dates of your visit. Sweet pastries, however, are eaten year-round as desserts, and are similar to pancakes.
Tumaca Bread
Order it in any language. Impressive!
Pa amb Tomaquet' (bread with tomato)
Call it ‘Pan Tumaca’, ‘Pa amb Tomaquet’, or simply bread with tomato. If you think this is just going to be bread with a slice of tomato, you are wrong. Try this in Barcelona or any surrounding area and you are bound to change your mind. The recipe is very simple: a small slice of bread (normally from the night before), tomato, oil, salt, and you can also add a slice of Serrano ham. The waiters in the area will serve you the very best. It has become a delicacy, which refreshes the palate on a summer’s day. Even though there are many theories on where this recipe came from, it is thought to originate from humble peasants, who only cooked bread once a week. The bread would harden, so the peasants would soften it with tomato and oil. Because of this, it is also know as the ‘food of the poor’. Others say that a painter invented it, as he was trying to recreate a sunset on something edible. Whatever the truth may be, Pa amb Tomaquet will never disappoint.
Vegetables
If you love vegetables, this is the place for you, as this region boasts top quality produce.
Sautéed or grilled?
Vegetables make up the fundamental base of the Mediterranean diet, including the Catalonian one. Due to its mild climate and moderate temperatures, the region of Catalonia (and its neighbouring regions) is ideal for growing unbeatable vegetables. This information should be useful when it comes to ordering a meal, and when you feel like making a meal yourself! ‘Escalivada’ is a dish, typically made with onion, red pepper, aubergine and tomate, cooked in the oven. They are served cold, accompanied with olive oil (just like most things in Barcelona). They are usually presented in strips. Some places like to add fish, usually cod. You can also try ‘samfaina’, similar to ratatouille, made with sautéed local vegetables and served with olive oil. We also recommend the Catalonian salad, made with lettuce, tomatoes, onions and olives. This sounds like any other salad, but they then add different sausages, such as ‘fuet’ or botifarra, depending on the area. In general, restaurants will offer a choice of ingredients.
Botifarra Sausage
Sample this while you're here and, if you like it, take some home with you!
The star of Catalonia.
You are bound to have heard of the Catalonian botifarra. This is the star product of this region’s cuisine. It is a type of sausage, made with minced pork meat, pepper and various spices. You will mainly find two types of botifarra: white and black. White botifarra is only made with lean meat, whereas the black botifarra is a mixture of lean meat, fat and pig’s blood. Although these ingredients may not sound too appetising, together they make for a delicious dish, and everyone who tries it falls in love with its flavours. There are various ways of preparing and serving it, with typical dishes including Catalonian eggs, Ampurdanese rice, Catalonian broad beans, and the list goes on. Without doubt, the most famous dish is kidney beans with botifarra. This is a succulent and rich mixture of beans and fried botifarra, sautéed in oil, garlic, parsley and finely chopped bacon. This is a heavier dish, typically served in winter, so we recommend a siesta after you’ve eaten!
Catalonian Cava
Sample authentic Catalonian cava in the Gothic Quarter, which is lined with places offering a variety of the best bottles.
Cheers!
Catalonian cava is a sparkling wine, originating in the Alt Penedes zone, around 40 kilometres from Barcelona. In this area is a town called Sant Sadurni d’Anoia, where a group of seven noblemen, with a shared interest in the process of champagne and wine making, got together at the end of the 19th century. From their meetings, they decided to put their technique to good use and started making champagne in this area. The first 72 crates of Catalonian cava were sold to the public in 1879. This was the Catalonian cava’s starting point. From then on, it was thought to be a drink of the noble people, and became fashionable in the upper echelons of society. It was therefore in high demand, and has remained popular ever since, competing with the best French champagne. There is a large variety of cava, which can be paired with all different types of food, including meat and fish, due to their varying sugar content. The Gothic Quarter is filled with cava houses and bars, ideal for sampling this delicious Barcelona speciality.
¿What to order in Barcelona?
Delicious things you have to try.
Bon appetit!
Catalonian gastronomy is one of the main attractions in both Barcelona and the rest of the region. As a Mediterranean zone, the meals are full and rich in all types of food (meat, fish etc.), as well as reputedly healthy and balanced. The most popular meat dish is the Catalonian Botifarra and the typical fricassee, made with beef and mushrooms. The ‘cap-i-pota’ is a stew containing beef cheek and hooves, while the ‘rostit’ is a typical Catalonian roast. Fish dishes are abundant, due to its geographical location, and the fish menu is a long one. We recommend the sardines, the tuna with ‘sanfaina’ vegetable sauce, the fish ‘suquet’ and what is known as the ‘light opera of fish’ (funnily enough, it is called an ‘opera’ when it contains lobster). For the sweeter tooth, Catalonian cream is a must-try. Catalonia boasts some of the best restaurants in the world, including El Bulli, a restaurant owned by famous chef Fernan Adria, located in the Rosas port (Gerona), although it is temporarily closed. Of course, this area is also famous for its cava and wine.
Maritime Museum
This museum's importance not only lies in its contents, but its location: the 13th century Royal Dockyard.S
The historic entry to Spain.
The Barcelona Maritime Museum is located on Drassanes Avenue, where it meets the end of La Rambla at the sea, at the start of Columbus Avenue. It recounts the history of a port, which was the main port of entry to Spain from the Mediterranean for centuries. The museum is situated at the old Royal Dockyard, a Catalonian Gothic building from the 13th century, where they used to build boats and naval constructions. During the reign of Pedro III of Aragon, this was thought to be the city’s main motor. This naval traffic and construction, along with the port, were the first of the Crown of Catalonia Empire, which was the first in the Mediterranean. Its conquests reached Greece and its surrounding islands. This marked the start of the Barcelona we know today. All of this history is written on the walls of the museum, although many are not familiar with it.
Gaudi House Museum (Parc Güell)
This intriguing visit will lead you to one of Gaudi's last residences, giving you a little insight into Gaudi's world.
The presence of Gaudi in Güell Park.
The Gaudi House Museum is located at the heart of Güell Park. Gaudi himself collaborated in the project’s planning and signed it, which took away the title of architect from Francesc Berenguer, who was in charge of building it. The aim of the project was to create a museum house, which brought attention to the park. The park was initially the idea of Eusebi Güell i Bacigalupi, a Catalonian industrialist, who wanted to create a residential area for the city’s aristocracy. However, only two houses were built in this large, ambitious project, one of which was Gaudi’s. Despite the artist’s fame, nobody made an offer on the house, and Gaudi ended up moving in here with his father and niece. He established his residence here from 1906, until the last months of his life, when he moved to the workshop of the Sagrada Familia. The house has four floors, all with the original décor, and a large part of the furniture was designed and created by the architect. This is an interesting visit, which gives the visitor insight into Gaudi’s world.
Caixa Forum
An excellent collection of contemporary art, with a programme of cultural activities that will not disappoint.
Cadafalch, Montaner and Gaudi.
Puig i Cadafalch, along with Doménech i Montaner and Antonio Gaudi, are the three most representative architects of Catalonian Modernism. Cadafalch was responsible for the construction of the textile factory in the lower part of Mount Montjuic, for Barcelona businessman, Casimir Casaramona. Since 2002, it has become part of the La Caixa Foundation, with its entirety dedicated to benefitting society. It is now one of the main nuclei for artistic activity in Barcelona. In the past years, the centre has gained international acclaim, through its Catalonian contemporary art collection. The centre also organises other activities, including film viewings and night screenings in the summer months. The perfect way to end a visit to Montjuic is to enjoy an open-air film. Another of the centre’s main attractions is the Modernist hall, which takes on the original idea of using this type of Modernist, industrial architecture to display a collection of the same nature. Make sure to check the schedule of activities before your visit, for great discounts on your tickets.
Secret Pedrera (Night tour)
Visit La Pedrera at night and discover shapes and reflections, before dining in its own restaurant. How's that for a plan?
La Pedrera's intimate hour.
This is a unique and sensory visit. The nocturnal visit to La Pedrera, or ‘The Secret Pedrera’, is a different and new way of visiting Mila House, one of the city’s symbols of Modernism and Gaudi. This visit will allow you to explore the nocturnal atmosphere and community that lives in the building, as well as the galleries, decorations and exhibitions, in the most intimate of settings. Legend has it that La Pedrera has an infinite amount of shapes, and never reflects the same shape twice. Perhaps the local community exaggerates this, but observing its façade and lookout points by night will provide you with unique views of this building. There is also the option of dining there after your guided tour, in the building’s café. This is a Modernist restaurant with a vast array of gastronomic delights. After dinner, wander through the Gracia district to discover other unique buildings, and feel like you are in early 20th century Barcelona.
Dali Museum (Figueres)
It's well worth taking the time to visit this museum located right on the Catalonian coast, and feel as though you're in his final work.
The true genius of Salvador Dali.
Figueres is a small village close to the port town of Roses, in the outskirts of Barcelona. This is part of the route you should take if you have the time and want to get to know the Catalonian Costa Brava. 100 kilometres from the capital, the village is located in an old Roman enclave, a true Mediterranean paradise. Open since 1974, the Dali Theatre Museum (designed by Dali himself) is in the centre of Figueres, in an old Roman theatre. This is not a visit to a museum about the artist, but a visit to his last, enormous, and most surreal project. Here you will find some of his key works, such as Port Alguer, Girl from Figueres and the famous indulgent self-portrait, with fried bacon. Also of interest are the different art collections that he decided to include, with works by El Greco, Maria Fortuny and Modest Urgell. Dali, enthused by the idea of opening a museum in his hometown, across from the church where he was baptised, dedicated his last decade to this large project.
F.C. Barcelona Museum
Explore every part of the stadium and immerse yourself in the world of Barcelona football, surrounded by photos and trophies.
The heart of Barça.
The F.C. Barcelona Museum has become a popular destination for all fans of the team. Inside the Camp Nou stadium, the museum has now been reopened after the extension of the halls. In the last years (particularly after the ‘Guardiola stage’), this team has become extremely popular. The majority of their championship trophies from all around the world are exhibited here, and this team is not short of trophies! The new installations include large touch-screens for the spectator’s use, showing some of the team’s most famous moments, historic goals and decisive matches throughout the years. This is all to convince the visitor of its status as ‘more than just a club’. Depending on the time of year (particularly in the summer, when the national league is over), special tours are offered, which allow you to explore a large part of the stadium, including the pitch, the press room, the team benches and the changing rooms.
Liceu Grand Theatre
The curtain opens on a building that has been the object of many contradicting legends, where some of the best plays in Spain are put on. Bravo!
The best opera.
The Liceu Grand Theatre is a beautiful building located halfway up La Rambla and is the setting for a large number of some of Spain’s most important musical, theatrical and dance shows. The building was inaugurated in 1847. Since then, it has been considered one of the best halls in the world. Commonly known as the ‘Liceo’, it symbolises two contrasting legends. On one side, it has been considered the meeting place for aristocracy and Barcelona bourgeoisie to come and enjoy opera, synonymous with high class and sophistication. On the other side, people say it was built for all members of society to enjoy whatever shows passed through Barcelona. For this reason, there is a large central zone, where anyone can come and enjoy a show at a low price. In 1994, the artistic centre suffered a tragic fire, ironically while they were working on the building’s safety precautions. Despite the whole interior being burnt down, it was reconstructed to exactly how it was originally and opened its doors once again in 1999.
Catalonia National Art Museum
Its engravings and numismatic pieces are royally famous.
The crown of Montjuic.
At the top of Montjuic, crowning the park, is this striking building. This is the Catalonian National Art Museum. This eclectic historical revival was inaugurated as a museum in 1929. Its façade is a mixture of elements from several artistic trends, from Renaissance to Baroque. Inside, its collection covers every period of art, from the point of view, and with the influence of the Catalonian community. Famous for its exhibitions of engravings and numismatic pieces, the permanent collection here requires more than one visit to cover.
Barcelona Contemporary Art Museum
This unusual museum reflects upon art. Get to know today's artists and discover their methods and trends.
The laboratory of contemporary art.
This unusual museum reflects upon art. Get to know today’s artists and discover their methods and trends. The Barcelona Contemporary Art Museum differs to others. Opened in 1995, it is more commonly known as ‘MACBA’. This is a space with various halls, used as investigation ‘laboratories’ for contemporary art. This is a place of artistic analysis and reflection. Critic Alexandre Cirici Pellicier had the idea to create a space in the city for all current artists, and commissioned American Richard Meier to do it. Gradually, the centre grew, gaining international acclaim. Even if you don’t have time to visit all the permanent collection halls, try and fit in the exhibited works by Antoni Tápies, Paul Klee, Francesc Torres and Mario Merz y Zush, all artists from the second half of the 20th century.
Picasso Museum
This museum shows the love this artist had for this city. Experience it for yourself.
4,249 works!
Pablo Ruiz Picasso had a close relationship with the city of Barcelona. Due to this, 50 years ago on the 9th of March 1963, the Picasso Museum was inaugurated. The painter moved from Malaga to Barcelona when he was young, following in the footsteps of his father, a drawing teacher. He spent a large part of his formative years here and created a friendship circle revolving around art, which he kept until the day he died. Amongst his friends was Jaume Sabartes who, along with his wife, Jacqueline Picasso, managed to open this museum halfway through Franco’s dictatorship (Picasso was a renowned Communist). The museums houses a collection of 4,249 works spread out over 13th and 14th century palaces, that were renovated in the 18th century. Located on Montcada Street, these are prime examples of Catalonian Gothic architecture. The permanent collection includes important works, from ‘Man in a Beret’ to his famous ‘Las Meninas’ series. Although the museum specialises in his youth and adolescence, it has incorporated some of the painter’s later works, and is constantly organising temporary exhibitions of his other works.
Tibidabo
Many songs have been written about this mountain, which offers the best views of the city.
We're being watched…
Mount Tibidabo is said to watch over the city. Over 512 metres tall, this mountain in the outskirts of Barcelona is the perfect place to observe the city. Spanish singers, such as Serrat and Loquillo, have written songs about this place. In the early 19th century, this gradually became the residential area with the most upper-class residents. At the time, other construction plans were also underway, to make it one of the most popular leisure destinations in Barcelona. A main attraction is the Sacrificial Temple of the Sacred Heart, which is very similar to the Sacre Coeur Basilica in Montmartre, Paris (possibly due to its location or the landscape, but people from Barcelona do not like to talk about it). There is also the Theme Park, which opened in 1899 and was the first theme park in Spain and the second in Europe. The Collserola Tower is at the peak of the mountain. Built in honour of the Olympic Games in 1992, it boasts several lookout points offering unique views of the entire city.
Camp Nou Stadium
This is more than just a club. Even if you aren't a football fan, the largest stadium in Europe is well worth a visit.
Go Barca!
‘Mes que un club’ (‘more than a club’) is what the stands whisper at the F.C. Barcelona pitch. This is one of the most important football clubs in the world. A large amount of Barcelona locals follow this team (as well as millions of others around the world), and over 93,000 spectators flock here every other weekend. The Camp Nou Stadium was inaugurated on the day of Merced (the Patron Saint) in 1957, with unprecedented excitement. This coincided with the signing of Hungarian player Kubala, who made history on the Barcelona team. Today, it has the largest capacity of all Spanish stadiums, and the sixth largest in Europe. Its record turnout was for the Michael Jackson concert in 1988, when it held over 135,000 people. Among the installations is the club’s museum. Go Barca!
Batlló House
A unique gem, thanks to its stone and glass curves, its colour changes throughout the day.
One hundred per cent Gaudi.
A Gaudi building inaugurated in 1906, Batlló House is one of Barcelona’s emblems, and one of the reasons why Gracia Avenue is known as the ‘Modernist Avenue’ of Barcelona. Like the Sagrada Familia, this was a work in progress that Gaudi took over. In this case, he made a new façade for a building originally erected by Emilio Salas Cortes, over thirty years earlier (around 1876), applying a mixture of curved stone and glass to its walls. In fact, the architect had to extend the project several times, in order to find a balance between the building’s necessary functions and the aesthetic he was going for. In the end, it became one of his most original works. It is said that the façade’s colour changes according to what hour of the day it is and where you are observing it. The glass and its layout produce this optical effect. Gaudi ordered the glass to be removed and re-positioned several times to achieve this.
Magic Fountain
An oasis of peace, its light, colour and water shows are highly recommended. It's even more impressive at night!
An Olympic legacy.
The Magic Fountain of Montjuic, or Fountain of Montjuic, is one of the legacies left after the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games. It is located at the Four Columns of Josep Puig I Cadafalch, which were rebuilt in 2008. These form the central axis of the park. Although this project started in 1929, the works in the build-up to the Olympic Games are the reason behind the park’s beauty today. The Magic Fountain of Montjuic now holds light, colour and water shows, which, combined with music and dance, make for one of the city’s most original attractions. Comprising streams, pools and waterfalls, which come out from the fountain and travel around the park, this attraction generates a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Try not to be in a hurry on your visit here, as the best part is finding a corner to sit in and peacefully enjoying the views and the atmosphere. If possible, visit at night, as the combination of the lights, music and colours make it even more spectacular.
Barcelona Cathedral
Its decor is comprised of symbols alluding to the life of martyr Saint Eulalia, to whom the church is dedicated.
Locals know it as 'Cathedral'.
Although Barcelona is known as the city of Modernism, Gothic architecture is very present here. A prime example of this is the Barcelona Cathedral, located in Seo Square, built on top of the ruins of a Romanesque cathedral and another early Christian basilica. The Cathedral is more commonly referred to as ‘Cathedral’, and was finished in the 15th century. It was dedicated to Saint Cruz in 599, then in 877 to Saint Eulalia, more commonly known as the Lady of Mercy. The majority of the symbols decorating the Cathedral refer to the legends of Saint Eulalia’s macabre fate. Legend has it that this martyr was stripped of her clothes and publically exposed when, at this exact moment, it miraculously started to snow, covering her naked body. Because of this, she was punished with thirteen separate punishments, one for every year of her life. To symbolise this today, there are thirteen geese guarding the interior courtyard and the martyr’s sepulchre. Inside, the Gothic and Renaissance cloister and stained glass windows are stunning, but the majestic organ, built in 1537, steals the show.
La Mercé Basilica
There are many legends that revolve around La Mercé ('Our Lady of Mercy'), which have made her the Patron Saint of the city.
Baroque legends.
At the heart of the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona, you will find the Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy, known more commonly as ‘La Merced’. This Baroque basilica was built by architect Josep Mas y Dordal, between 1765 and 1776, on the foundations of a temple that dates back to before the 13th century. Legend has it that Pedro Nolasco (a Catalonian monk who died in 1245, creator of the Order of the ‘Bienaventurada Virgen de la Merced’), saw the Lady of Mercy in his dreams. These apparitions made his create his order, with the goal of redeeming Christian prisoners who had been seized by North African pirates. The Cathedral was created as a tribute to him, and his goal is still the mission of that Order today. Another legend says that the Lady of Mercy ridded the city of a plague of locusts. The town unanimously decided to make the Lady the city’s Patron Saint, as a way of thanking her for saving them. Ever since then, the people of Barcelona have paid tribute to their Patron Saint each year.
Santa Maria del Mar
One hundred per cent gothic. Majestically finished off with its dazzling interior lighting and accoustics.
A tribute to the victory over Sardinia.
Santa Maria del Mar is, strangely enough, the only completely finished Gothic church in all of Barcelona. It is thought to be built on top of an old Roman theatre, but there are no traces of this. Construction was finished in the 15th century, and it is a tribute to the city’s victory over Sardinia. This is where the working class of the Ribera area would congregate, whereas the higher classes would meet at the Cathedral. Because of this, it symbolises the Medieval naval supremacy of the House of Barcelona, which saw over 100 years of conflict from Majorca to Greece. Despite the roughness of the exterior walls, the luminosity and magnitude of its interior are stunning. In fact, the church’s acoustics are so good, that it is often used for concerts, including jazz performances.
Music Palace
Enjoy one of the best stages in the world, perfect for Classical music symphonies and orchestras.
"The building of the people".
Located at the heart of the city, the Music Palace of Barcelona is an impressive Modernist building, which you can find on Sant Pere Més Alt Street, just steps from Laietana Street. Inaugurated in 1908, this building is famous for housing one of the best stages in the world for Classical concerts, and the construction itself is internationally renowned. Its architect, Lluis Doménech i Montaner, was looking for a single space to house the Catalonian Choral Society, which could host symphonic and orchestral concerts. He built a central stage with lighting from above (representing the sun), which used natural light. The auditorium’s exterior is equally stunning, and you need to take a few steps back to take it all in. The main façade features ‘The Catalan Song’, a sculpture by Miguel Blay. In the form of the front of a ship, this represents the unification of the upper class, the seafarers, the peasants and the children, reflecting the idea that the Music Palace is for every citizen.
La Pedrera - Mila House
Visit in the evening to experience the spectacular sunset view. Check opening hours and scheduled cultural activities before visiting.
A Modernist emblem.
When Pere Mila Y Camps, one of the most influential businessmen of 19th century Barcelona, commissioned Gaudi to build this building, he intended to reside in the top part of the building and rent out the lower floors to new businessmen in the city. In fact, located at the end of Gracia Avenue, it was meant to promote the new zone of Ensanche. However, the building faced several problems before its inauguration, as the architect exceeded all the planned dimensions of the project. Inaugurated in 1912, the building more commonly known as ‘La Pedrera’ (‘The Quarry’), has become one of the most important Modernist emblems of Barcelona. The building looks like a quarry, due to its three curved façades, decorated with coloured stoned that reflect the natural light. It is connected by three streets and has always been used as a civil building. Although its outside is very striking, it is at night that it really becomes spectacular. Therefore, we recommend planning your interior visit according to its night schedule. The building hosts numerous cultural activities, so it’s worth checking the opening hours before you visit.
Sagrada Familia
Its façades and conical towers have become a UNESCO World Heritage site. Gaudi would be proud!
Up in the clouds.
The Sagrada Familia is the building that touches the sky above Barcelona. With its enormous conical, Modernist towers, this is the city’s symbol, and Catalonian architect, Antonio Gaudi’s most famous work. What most people don’t know, is that Gaudi took up a project that had already started in 1882, which was Neo-gothic in style. However, it is safe to say that he changed it so much, it is now considered entirely his own work. The initial idea was to build a traditional temple, whereas Gaudi’s masterpiece has a total of eighteen towers, twelve of which are dedicated to the Apostles, four to the Evangelists, and the remaining two to Mary and Jesus. Each tower differs in height, reflecting the religious status of each figure. As an example, the Jesus tower is 170 metres tall. The architect only lived to see one tower, but the monumental construction project continued long after his death. Today, the eight conical towers and façades dedicated to the Nativity, the Passion and the Glory, have been declared UNESCO World Heritage sites. Due to the large influx of tourists every year, we recommend booking your visit in advance.
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