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Barcelona
Overview
There really is nowhere quite like Barcelona, not in Catalunya, Spain, Europe, or even the world, and if there was ever a city that could be said to possess it all then this would be the one. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the peaceful rolling hills of Montjuic and Tibidabo, this is a destination that should be visited at least once in a lifetime and if the opportunity arises then keep coming back as, with the boundless opportunities on offer, no trip is ever complete. The capital of Catalunya, Barcelona is a self-confident city and the beating heart of a non-independent nation proud to show off its language, heritage and distinctive culture.
A cosmopolitan metropolis of changing faces and vibrant districts, where else is it possible to experience eye-catching Gothic monuments, museums and galleries dedicated to such greats as Picasso and Gaudi, vibrant local markets that have stood the test of time, world class shopping, a contender for Europe’s leading nightlife, long stretches of golden sandy beach, pioneering musical festivals and arguably the world’s greatest football club? At the heart of it all is Las Ramblas, a wide and colorful avenue cutting through the city from the harbor up to Placa de Catalunya, the start of the northern suburbs. Any visitor to the city will find themselves drawn to here over and over, not only for the abundance of attractions and activities but also because it provides easy access to many districts.
Barcelona is a city for all seasons and although witness to some cold spells and a rainy season, the climate shouldn’t have a bearing on when deciding to visit. A greater influence should be timing a trip with a festival of interest and with plenty on offer there is always something happening the year round. Furthermore with the great network of public transport, counting buses, trains trams and cable-cars, getting around the city can be as fun as exploring it. That said, as a big action packed city, some find it to be a little overwhelming, which is when the time comes to take advantage of the numerous tourist geared tours on foot, bus, bike and boat.
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Barcelona
Destination Reviews
Things to do in
Barcelona
Las Ramblas - Running for almost a mile from Port Vell to Placa Catalunya, Las Ramblas is the cultural heart of Barcelona’s life. Moving from Port Vell, visitors have the districts of El Raval and Barri Gotic spreading out to the left and right, respectively, yet it is what goes on on Las Ramblas that is the true attraction with cafés, bars, shops and street performers lining the street day and night. With so much to see a guide isn’t really necessary, although a few obvious highlights include Museu de Cera, Gran Teatre del Liceu, and Mercat de la Bouqueria. Finish the day or sit down for lunch on the terraces of Placa de Catalunya and admire the beautiful Font de Canaletes.
Barri Gotic - On the east side of Las Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter is the centre of the city’s old town with a concentration of medieval architecture that is unmatched anywhere in the world. Dedicated at least a day, even more if you have a keen interest in historic buildings, to explore the masterpieces dating from the 14th and 15thC. Not to miss are the La Seu, the incredible Gothic cathedral and its adjoining square, the museums of Museu d’Historia de la Ciutat and Museu Frederic Mares, the Esglesia de Santa Maria del Pi and the abundance of architecture set around Placa del Rei and Placa Reial.
El Raval - The opposite side of Las Ramblas forms another part of Barcelona’s old town and is a district of changing faces. Once the site of hospitals and religious houses it later became the red-light district. Although today still home to prostitutes and dealers, there are plenty of traditional atmospheric taverns and some excellent cultural centres, including Barcelona’s Contemporary Art Museum (MACBA) and Centre de Cultura Contemporania de Barcelona. With time to spare, check out the huge food market of Mercat de Sant Antoni.
The Waterfront - As has become popular across Europe, the old decaying harbour has witnessed a serious revamping over the past few decades and is now a thriving commercial and entertainment centre beginning a few blocks from Port Vell. The area is home to some top tourist attractions like Museu Maritim and Museum d’Historia de Catalunya. From Barceloneta, the former fishing quarter, the esplanade runs up to Villa Olimpica (Olympic Village) and then stretches out in six connected urban beaches.
The Eixample - Those looking to shop whilst in Barcelona should head north past Placa de Catalunya to the fairly new development of the Eixample, which, amongst the shops, is home to some exquisite works of modern architecture, many by Antoni Gaudi. Be sure to see the La Pedreda, Fundacion Antoni Tapies and Gaudi’s tremendous creation Sagrada Familia.
FC Barcelona - By far one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs whose ground, Camp Nou, has been home to such greats as Johan Cruyff, Diego Maradona, Histro Stoichkov and today Lionel Messi. When Barca play a home game in La Liga it seems the whole city stops to watch and up to 120,000 spectators fill the seats of their world renowned theatre to football. Those who can’t make a game should head along for the superb tours of the stadium, museum and impressive trophy room.
Barcelona Festivals
Sonar - For a weekend in June Barcelona is the host of a fantastic festival of advanced music and multimedia art, attracting performers and festival-goers from all corners of the globe. Sonar is held all over the world with Barcelona being the most important location. 2011 will welcome headline performances from Underworld, Mary Anne Hobbs and Little Dragon, amongst others. Check website for ticket prices and release dates.
Festes de la Merce - Barcelona’s largest annual festival takes place on September 24th with processions, music and dance to commemorate the Virgin de la Merca, the city’s patron saint. Make sure to be around for the human tower competition in Placa de Sant Jaume.
Barcelona Nightlife
Barcelona is without doubt one of Europe’s flagship cities in terms of nightlife, catering for all tastes and ages. Typical of Spain, things begin at an easy pace in the early evening when people hangout in cafés, take a stroll or go for dinner. Come 11pm the real action heats up and the myriad of bars, lounges and clubs fill up until the early hours. There is no one main centre although good places are: Barri Gotic for traditional bodegas; Placa Real for intimate jazz cafes; Villa Olimpico for beach bars and warm alfresco summer nights; and Port Vell for contemporary nightclubs.
Barcelona Bars
Bar del Pi - Superb terrace bar on Placa del Pi loved by both tourists and locals.
Dry Martini - Forever busy bar in the swanky Eixample district laying claim to the world’s best dry martini
El Quatre Gats - Contemporary bar serving fine beer to a largely bohemian crowd.
Jazz Si Club - Tied to the music school this is the spot for cheap gigs ranging from rock to blues to jazz.
Le Kasbah - A summer hotspot at The Waterfront, revered for the large terrace and cocktail sipping opportunities.
Travel Bar - Boisterous bar filled with backpackers and stag and hen parties. The bar also arranges city tours.
Barcelona Nightclubs
Bikini BCN - Unpretentious club with two rooms, one spinning Latin beats and the other with an emphasis on indie rock and punk.
Club Catwalk - Popular spot in Villa Olimpico where upstairs is for RnB and hip-hop and downstairs for a thumping house party.
Club Fellini - Funky club on La Rambla where big name DJs spin tunes to an eclectic crowd.
La Macarena - Intimate dance club and a mecca for the local music scene. You may have to ask a few people to find it.
Sala Razzmatazz - Extremely popular complex housing 5 clubs all jumping to an eclectic mix of music.
Failing these, check out Guia del Ocio BCN and See Barcelona, free publications that both have good nightlife listings. Another option would be to join a bunch of fellow travellers on a Barcelona pub crawl.
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Barcelona
Activity Reviews
Hotels in
Barcelona
Budget Hotels Barcelona
Backpackers BCN - Smart hostel a short walk from Placa Catalunya. Tel (34) 935 666 725.
Itaca Hostel - Lively hostel in Barri Gotic, close to tourist attractions and the beach. Tel (34) 933 019 751.
Mambo Tango Hostel - Great value rooms and superb breakfast a stones throw from Las Ramblas. Tel (34) 934 425 164.
Sant Jordi Hostels - Range of hostels across the city catering for party animals and those looking to relax. Tel (34) 932 156 743.
Midrange Hotels Barcelona
El Jardi Hotel - Superb location and liveable rooms with new bathrooms. Top floor rooms have terraces overlooking Placa del Pi. Tel (34) 933 015 900.
Hotel Lloret - Decent rooms, many with balconies, in a historic building on Las Ramblas. Tel (34) 933 173 366.
Hostal Nuevo Colon - Family-run guesthouse and self-catering apartments close to all main sights. Tel (34) 933 195 077.
Luxury Hotels Barcelona
Hotel Arts Barcelona - The leader in the city’s 5-star hotels boasting outstanding rooms and service. Apartments also available. Tel (34) 932 211 070.
Hotel Rivoli Ramblas - Luxury rooms in art-deco and contemporary style right on Las Ramblas. Tel (34) 934 817 676.
Neri Hotel & Restaurant - Superb boutique hotel housed in an 18thC palace a few steps from the cathedral. Tel (34) 933 040 655.
Short Term Apartment Rentals Barcelona
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Hotel Reviews
Barcelona
Weather
Barcelona
Travel Resources
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