Barcelona, The City of Counts
The city of Barcelona provides a wealth of exploring and entertainment opportunities. You can soak in culture and knowledge of Barcelona’s vast historic past via architecture and modern interpretations of Mediterranean cuisines. Barcelona is considered one of the top 10 most visited cities in the world and top three within Europe. It hosts a variety of luxury accommodations and lodging opportunities.
FOOD AND DRINKS
Eating and drinking are two of the greatest attractions in Barcelona. Enjoying authentic Mediterranean cuisines with masterful ingredients and spices will be easy here with so many available options. Restaurants specialize in blending olive oil with various meats and vegetables. Great wine from the Catalan region is well known and exciting. ABaC is one of the more famous restaurants in Barcelona, acclaimed Chef Jordi Cruz is one of the youngest recipients of a Michelin star. Alkimia is another restaurant in which the head chef is famously recognized. Both restaurants are considered high-end. For more affordable options, consider dining at the Agut restaurant or Cafe de l’Academia which are both excellent low cost dining experiences.
Dining and restaurant experiences vary based on preference, Mediterranean food is not the only option. Barcelona offers a variety of cultural culinary choices. From a number of Asian cuisines to European varieties.
DISTRICTS
While exploring the many districts of Barcelona, you will inevitably see or hear about Gaudi’s architectural contributions to the world of architecture. His contributions from the late 19th Century and early 20th Century have been recognized in part with Seven World Heritage Site recognition. The eclectic and personal style of this designer is particularly unique.
Eixample or ‘Expansion’ is one of the more famous neighborhood districts of Barcelona. Favored for its modern architecture and elegant shopping centers, this area is known for its dazzling Art Nouveau styling. One of the museums in the area, ‘Museu Egipci de Barcelona’ is well worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Born-Ribera is another neighborhood district that is well worth a visit. It is home to a variety of attractions such as the Biblioteca Popular de la Dona Francesca Bonnemaison(the Women’s Public Library) the world’s first publicly established library exclusive to women. Or visit the Disseny Hub a museum gallery that is home to a variety of art installations.
FAMILY ATTRACTIONS
Barcelona is also home to a variety of family attractions such as the Magic Fountain considered Barcelona’s biggest ornamental water fountain. Consider doing some research on this attraction as there are yearly performances including fireworks and acrobatics involving the fountain and its waterworks. The ‘Aquarium of Barcelona’ is considered one of Europe’s largest aquarium. This is a great place for the family to learn more about the Eco-marine life with over 400 species.
TRAVEL TIPS
Spring and fall offer the best temperatures for visiting, without the need for an overcoat or feeling overly warm. While the popularity of air conditioning has become somewhat widespread, it is the experience of dining outdoors in the cool evenings that make forever lasting memories of Barcelona.
First time travelers should consider using the Barcelona Bus Turistic, for it’s value, it offers a great way to discover all the interesting sights available to you within the area. The tour consists of 3 different routes that can be boarded using a variety of purchasing options, in addition there are audio guides in 16 languages.
As always, consider doing the necessary research in order to determine the best time to visit. While spring and fall are ideal times to visit, summer and winter offer a chance for people who wish to avoid crowds. Barcelona has year-round attractions and therefore many seasonal events are worthwhile to witness and experience.
With advances in technology, these days one can easily bring along or fit some basic translations or dialect apps with their cell phones. They can come in very handy if you encounter situations where negotiations are required or assistance is needed.
WHERE TO STAY IN BARCELONA
Barcelona is home to some of the best hotels in the world, with a range of settings from ultra-chic luxury hotels to more cost effective and affordable hotel deals. For a cheap hotel option within two miles of Barcelona’s city try the Catalonia Sagrada Familia. More expensive five star hotels like Ilunion Bel Art are closer to downtown city center. While being closer to the city center can offer ease in reaching various locations, the municipalities provide a number of options in getting around. If cost is an issue, consider staying at the Wilson Boutique, a smaller boutique lodging.
MUSEUMS, BEACHES AND PARKS
As previously mentioned, Barcelona is home to a variety of attractions. A variety of European museums which house internationally recognized works of art. Various Parks that serve to entertain but also provide an outdoors experiences to those who wish to hike, and experience nature first hand. Barcelona has seven beaches along its coasts, rated as one of the top 10 beaches in the world.
