A Tour Around Barcelona

Photo by ooznu (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ooznu/)

 

The city of Barcelona is located on the Mediterranean coast in Spain. The city's architecture is one of it's main attractions, and the city is known for its parks and urban beaches.

Explore the markets.

Barcelona is a city known for its many tapas bars and Michelin restaurants. Visitors who decide to visit Barcelona will be able to taste crema catalana, a traditional dessert made from custard and sugar. During lunch most restaurants serve the menú del día, a three course menu that includes bread and a drink for a price of around 12€. During the afternoons the city center and the area near the port are filled with terraces where visitors will be able to enjoy tapas and a caña beer.

The Boquería Market is one of the city's most visited landmarks. The market is located a short distance away from Las Ramblas, a set of large boulevards. The market has many stalls selling many products, including fresh fruit, organic vegetables, icy smoothies and local specialties. The Quim tapas bar is located inside the market and is one of the city's most popular bars. After stocking up on freshly baked bread, a selection of cured hams and traditional pastries visitors will be able to enjoy a picnic in one of the city's parks.

 

Enjoy a stroll in the parks.

There are several parks in the city. The Ciutadella park is a centric park where the city's zoo is located. There are several museums in the park, including the Martorell Museum and the Laboratory of Nature, a museums known for its exhibits from the Natural History Museum.

Parc Güell is located on a hill north of the city center. There is a large tiled square in the park that is used as an observation deck and is known for its views towards the city and the sea. Underneath the plaza visitors will find a porch area held up by thin bony columns that is used as a hall for events.

 

Tour the city's architectonic landmarks.

This city in Catalonia is known for Gaudí's architecture. The Sagrada Familia, an unfinished cathedral that is one of the city's symbols, is located here. This large cathedral has several facades, and each facade is decorated with carved statues. Visitors will be able to explore the cathedral's interior before climbing up hundreds of steps up one of the towers to enjoy views of the city center.

In the Eixample district visitors will find several other Gaudí's buildings. Casa Batlló has a colourful sandstone facade decorated with trencadis tiles and skull shaped iron balconies. The rooftop has sculptures covered in mosaics. Casa Milá is located nearby and is known for its wavy stone facade. The chimneys located on the rooftop have the shape of warriors and events can be celebrated on the rooftops.

Another centric district is the Gothic Quarter. This quarter is known for its many historic buildings, including the Seu Cathedral, a large Gothic cathedral located next to an ancient cloister. Visitors will be able to enjoy a stroll around this neighbourhood, which has many narrow streets filled with chic lounges and many shops.

 

Visit the beach.

The city's main urban beach is the Barceloneta beach. Visitors will be able to enjoy many water sports and take long walks by the beach. The beach promenade is filled with bars, clubs and restaurants where visitors will be able to enjoy local food and a drink with views towards the sea. In the Port Vell area, a short walk away from the Columbus statue, is where the city's port is located. Here visitors will find the Maremagnum complex, where an aquarium, many restaurants and shops are located.