Barcelona, Beautiful, Bold, Brilliant
Attracting more than 30 million tourists* every year, this radiant Mediterranean-cradled city is not only a top tourist destination in Spain, but one of the most visited in all of Europe. Beyond its title as Catalonia’s economic and political capital, Barcelona has lots to show off, from climate to culture and from gastronomy to heritage, all with a unique sense of celebration.
Multi-faceted, the best of Barcelona is only revealed as you explore from one barris to the next, turning the pages of this open-air history. A perpetual-holiday city where Gaudi’s organic-curving masterpieces rub shoulders with dramatic Gothic designed streets and, of course, the beach. After the sun has set and the museums close their doors, a different Barcelona reveals itself, where cortados are replaced with Cava and the nights last longer than the days.
OUR HOTELS IN AND AROUND BARCELONA
Barcelona: Be inspired
What to do, to see, to hear...
TRANSPORTS IN BARCELONA
Flying into Barcelona will likely be your cheapest and often quickest option, but getting there by car, bus or train (or even cruise ship) is almost as easy. Once you’ve landed at El Prat you can reach the Catalan capital by bus (they run every 5 to 10 minutes), by taxi or by train (every 30 minutes). Navigating the city is straightforward with an efficient and affordable metro and bus system, but when in doubt our hoteliers will help point you in the right direction and choose the best ticket type for your trip. The city’s roads can get traffic-busy, but wide footpaths and designated cycle lanes makes getting around by bike or on foot simple and safe. And if you really want to see the city from a fresh perspective, then there is nothing better than a ride on the Montjuïc cable car from the Port.
When to go to Barcelona
With its pleasant climate throughout the year, there is rarely a ‘bad’ time to go to the city. That being said, if you’re sunshine-phobic and would rather avoid the sometimes notoriously large tourist-crowds, then skip the peak summer period. Spring or early summer, late summer or autumn offer a more pleasant Barcelona city experience.
Heading to Barcelona in winter means you’ll need to bring a jacket, but the trade-off of smaller crowds in the main tourist spots makes it worth it. Be aware that March can be a rainy month, and there’s always a chance of a storm in October and November, so pack accordingly.
What to do in Barcelona
From small squares to wide pedestrian arteries, quiet neighbourhood corners to Mediterranean warmed beaches; day or night, Barcelona will lead you into new discoveries and experiences. Not sure what to squeeze into your itinerary? Talk to our hoteliers who will be happy to reveal the secrets of the city and help you get an authentic sense of Catalan life. One thing is for sure, however long you’re staying for, it’s never long enough in Barcelona.
The best restaurants in Barcelona
Get your introduction to Catalan cuisine and its creativity at one of Barcelona’s markets (including of course La Boqueria) or endless list of restaurants. Expect the unexpected with dishes that might plate snails with rabbit and poultry with fruit. Treat yourself to local flavors at breakfast with a pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato, garlic and olive oil). For lunch and / or evening, succumb to sarsuela (fish and seafood flambéed with alcohol), escudella i carn d'olla (soup and stew) or botifarra amb mongetes (sausages with beans). Save space for dessert and do not miss the famous crema catalana (crème brulee)!