Visit Barcelona
Introduction
Barcelona is considered by many to be Spain's most cosmopolitan city. It's certainly one of the country's most exciting cities, situated in the heart of Catalonia's Mediterranean coast. It's one of Europe's busiest ports and lives as a port town should, staying up late and doing everything with energy and attitude.
The city has a hedonistic vibe, with bars and restaurants often buzzing until the early hours, and a confidence shared by its planet-conquering football team, FC Barcelona. But Barcelona is also a city full of culture, not least in its distinctive Modernist architecture and equally enchanting older buildings. The labyrinth Barri Gotic - Gothic Quarter - is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval centres, and the city's cathedral, complete with intricately carved spires and mythical gargoyles is a truly impressive sight.
This adventurous architectural style sets the tone for other parts of the city, where buildings bend and twist in shapes at all sorts of extraordinary angles. Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona's most celebrated son, is the man to thank for much of this, creating a host of Modernist landmarks in the city, including two masterpieces that rank among Barcelona's must see sights - the Park Güell gardens and the iconic, and as yet unfinished, Sagrada Família church.
Barcelona is also blessed with a number of excellent galleries, including the Museu Picasso in the centre of town and the superb Fundació Joan Miró in Montjuïc, which are both well worth a visit.
Food is another highlight of a stay in Barcelona. When it comes to eating, Barcelona is home to everything from fine-dining restaurants to dingy tapas bars. Steer away from the tourist traps on Las Ramblas and you're almost guaranteed to eat some of the freshest and most delicious Catalan cuisine going. The city rivals Paris in the quality and sheer diversity of its restaurants and is recognised now as one of Europe's gastronomic capitals.
Special offers in Barcelona
cruise offer
Exclusive tailor-made fares with $200 spending money
Book by: 28 February 2019
Forget flying, the best way to discover the true beauty of the Mediterranean basin is by sea. From Barcelona to Venice, travel the coasts of Spain and Italy for increasingly glamourous ports
cruise offer
Save up to 25% on select fares
Book by: 28 February 2019
Celebrate sailing on one of the Spirit of Discovery's first departures, you'll be treated to performances by Jools Holland, cooking classes from a celebrity chef and a curated Mediterranean route that takes in city greats and small-port charm.
cruise offer
Exclusive - Receive $300 Spa or shipboard credit per suite
Sail in the wake of history as you cross the Mediterranean Sea, traverse the Ionian and arrive in some of the world’s most ancient cities. Discover alluring Antibes with its ancient cobblestone streets and jewel-like setting on the Côte d’Azur.
cruise offer
Exclusive - Receive $300 Spa or shipboard credit per suite
You will be amazed by the striking architecture of Catalonia’s capital, Barcelona. It is one of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, as it balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter.
Top itineraries in Barcelona
cruise offer
Exclusive tailor-made fares with $200 spending money
Book by: 28 February 2019
Forget flying, the best way to discover the true beauty of the Mediterranean basin is by sea. From Barcelona to Venice, travel the coasts of Spain and Italy for increasingly glamourous ports
cruise offer
Save up to 25% on select fares
Book by: 28 February 2019
Celebrate sailing on one of the Spirit of Discovery's first departures, you'll be treated to performances by Jools Holland, cooking classes from a celebrity chef and a curated Mediterranean route that takes in city greats and small-port charm.
Seafarers and storytellers Immerse yourself in the vivacity of Spain as you explore its coastline before discovering the untouched elegance of Portugal.
cruise offer
Exclusive - Receive $300 Spa or shipboard credit per suite
Sail in the wake of history as you cross the Mediterranean Sea, traverse the Ionian and arrive in some of the world’s most ancient cities. Discover alluring Antibes with its ancient cobblestone streets and jewel-like setting on the Côte d’Azur.
Top places to stay in Barcelona
Billed by The Guardian as one of Europe’s hippest new hotels, this central offering features contemporary rooms, spa treatments, inventive dining and a spectacular rooftop pool and cocktail bar with views over the city.
When to go to Barcelona
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Barcelona articles
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