Barcelona

Overview

Barcelona is a great city to visit.  It is the capital of Catalonia which is somewhat different to the rest of Spain, they have their own language (Catalan, although everyone can speak Spanish) and they have moved to abolish Bullfighting.  Barcelona is a very cultural city, it's museums, theatres, art galleries and nightlife are of an impressively high standard and of special note are the architectural masterpieces of Antonio Gaudí.

The best place to watch people go by, to stroll or simply relax, is Las Ramblas', a pedestrian street with dozens of outdoor cafes. Here, you’ll find flower-stands, book kiosks and small market stalls where they sell birds and small animals. You'll also find an endlessly fascinating flowing receptacle of pageant-jugglers, singers, dancers, puppeteers, sidewalk artists, living statues and assorted oddballs on parade. Nearby is 'Plaça Real', with plenty of bars and restaurants, and 'Palau Guell', built by the Catalan architectural genius Antoni Gaudí in his undulating art-nouveau style. While in Las Ramblas and Placa Real, be very aware of pickpockets, too.

After having seen these sights, stroll the narrow winding streets of the 'Barri Gotic', the medieval Gothic quarter full of interesting tapas bars and cafes. Check out Picasso's old hangout, 'Els Quatre Gats', which has been renovated without losing its bohemian charm. Or head for the old Barceloneta section on the waterfront. This working-class area, which was always slightly rundown and scruffy-looking, is now packed with paella restaurants. The new beach area, which runs from Barceloneta to the...more

History