barcelona - spain

Barcelona is best known for....Art, Architecture or Football...I will only deal with the cultural aspect, the football you must sadly research for yourselves. A vibrant City which achieved greater prominence after hosting the Olympics, the main stadium still standing proudly for all to see. The City is a place to meander on foot, to discover  a whole list of interesting places , whatever your tastes may be. Your tourist map will divide into areas, pick out those places which you have always wanted to see. 

Taster Tours

The ‘go to ‘ ever reliable, hop on / hop off bus is always a great place to start. A good way to tour the main city highlights and get a glimpse of those outer green and leafy parts. No better approach to study the upper areas of those must see Gaudi influenced buildings, not altogether visible when walking along the crowded pavements  below. Public transport is cheap and reliable if an independent approach is preferred.

Travel cards can include airport transfers and ticket options to encompass the whole of your stay. Barcelona is a busy place , try and buy tickets in advance for those places on the top of your bucket list, to avoid disappointment. Gaudi and his influential style can be seen everywhere, pick up a local map to guide you along. Casa Mila is one of the not so obvious places. The chimneys and ventilator shafts on the roof terrace designed to look like a sculpture garden. The city views are an added bonus and just spectacular.

Gaudi’s Church Sagrada Familia is famous for its ‘work in progress’ status ....it seems likely to continue that way for some time. Vast in structure with many influences, a good place for an inside visit for the interested and inquisitive. The Museu of Picasso displays his early work, there is the Museu of Miro and many others available to visit, all dependent upon your personal tastes.

The Palau de la Musica has a really interesting interior, with a beautiful central stained glass roof and a facade decorated with mosaics. It is situated in the El Born district renowned for violin and glass makers. The Cathedral Santa Cru 1298c has an interesting interior. Based in the Barrio Gotico District, surrounded by some of the oldest streets in Barcelona.

The City Museum displays Mosaics and Wall paintings, with various historic documentation and details of excavations. Place Nova nearby has a regular Thursday Antique Market. The traditional district of Barceloneta was known for its sailors and fishermen, it now houses a plethora of fish and tapas restaurants and is one of the ways to access the sea. The sandy beach stretches along the coast and is a good way to combine a busy city break with sun and just lounging. The Marina is full of glamorous yachts, the Olympic Complex is nearby and you could fit in a visit to the Aquarium.

Las Ramblas is just that, a place to stroll amongst happy people, past the bars and restaurants. Mingle with the street musicians , linger in the various boutiques and absorb the vibes. The La Boqueria Market is situated here, it has lots of lovely local food produce, really worth a wander through. Don’t forget the Passeig de Garcia, a grand boulevard with stylish shops but it also has great architecture, both old and new to appreciate

Time to Linger

Tapas are delicious and one of the specialities in town. Try La Boqueria Market a feast for the senses pre 2 pm. Freshly prepared tapas really tempt or make your own picnic and snacks from the plentiful supply of local produce .....a treat in itself. People and laughter abound wherever you are....night time brings those streets really alive. The locals won’t  eat till very late, don’t be surprised to see restaurants empty and looking forlorn before the 10 pm witching hour....it may however be the only way to get a table in those much sought after restaurants. No need to be disappointed, good places are tucked into so many streets. Nightclubs and bars are busy till late ,great for people watching and celebrating the end of yet another good day.