Introduction
Sitges is situated just south along the coast from Barcelona. It's a popular holiday destination with Barcelona's trendy set - which are drawn by its pretty sandy beaches, ample smart hotels and bustling bar scene. As the birthplace of Facundo Bacardí, the man behind Bacardi rum, Sitges still knows how to throw a party. Its popularity does mean that the city can get busy, especially during the summer months and during the city's notorious Carnival in February. But there's plenty of sand to go around and unlike the beaches in Barcelona, there's normally space on which to throw a towel down.
Sitges is not all about parties, however, and there are a number of interesting heritage sites worth visiting. The Church of St Bartholomew & St Tecla is the town's most recognisable landmark - locals refer to it as ‘La Punta', The Point, as it lies on a promontory overlooking the city. The current building was built in the 17th century, though there's been a church on the site since medieval times and two Gothic tombs have survived, dating from 1317 and 1322.
Sitges beach
Sitges also hosts an annual film festival in October. Focussed on fantasy and horror films, it has attracted some big names over the years including Terry Gilliam, Anthony Hopkins, Martin Sheen and Ralph Fiennes. The film festival adds to the city's artsy vibe, while its superb nightlife and general flamboyance has seen Sitges emerge as one of Spain's gay and lesbian capitals.
