Barcelona

Gently sloping from the sea to the mountains, Barcelona is Spain's most cosmopolitan city and one of the Mediterranean's busiest ports. Restaurants, bars and clubs are always packed, as are the beaches in summer. This is a city with something for everyone at any time of the year; with great shopping, sweeping and spectacular views, some of the finest cuisine in Spain and a fascinating blend of architectural styles – from the Gothic style of the Middle-ages through to Gaudi’s fascinating and unusual take on modernism.

The Sagrada Familia is the worldwide symbol of Barcelona. This monumental church is Gaudi's most famous work and the finest example of his visionary genius. Work began in 1883 and has an anticipated finish date of 2026! Dotted with his architectural artwork, other notable masterpieces created by Gaudi can be found at Park Guell, the beautifully coloured Casa Batllo - a museum dedicated to examining his work housed inside his creation, La Pedrera or see the home where his spent 20 of his years, the now museum named Casa-Museum Gaudi.

The Picasso Museum – the museum to see in Barcelona, is located in the delightful Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter) and displays a fascinating progression of over 4,000 of the famous artist’s works. Explore Las Ramblas, the most lively and animated boulevard in Barcelona and the city’s main shopping and entertainment area. Cutting through the heart of the city centre, it’s divided into five sections stretching from Port Vell at the Southernmost-end to Plaça Catalunya to the North.

Admire street artists and performers, wander through the character filled alleyways, shop at market stalls and above all else – keep your valuables close as pickpockets can be rife! Sip sangria on the beachfront, nibble on a selection of tapas or indulge in one of many Michelin star restaurants in the city. For an amazing indoor food market experience that rivals our Central Markets, visit La Boqueria and enjoy the colours, smells and atmosphere.

For a short day trip out of the city, visit Montserrat, a spectacularly beautiful Benedictine monk mountain retreat. Take a funicular to the top of the mountain for superb views of the Catalonian countryside and interesting walking trails; for a real treat, listen to the famous Monastery choir boys and their melodic chants; view the black faced Madonna or the Holy Grotto on the mountain.