With spellbinding architecture and rich history filling the streets of this cosmopolitan city, it’s no wonder an average of 10 million visitors jet off to the capital of Catalonia every year. Delve beneath the surface of Barcelona and you’ll find a city that bristles with character from the top of the tallest church spires down to the side-street tapas bars. Read on to discover three things that we think will make you fall in love with The City of Gaudi.
Beaches
Barcelona has been crowned the best beach city in the world by National Geographic, above Rio de Janeiro, Miami and Sydney, making it a must-visit destination for a slice of surf and city. Enjoy a piece of the action in the bustling city centre, before heading down to one of the relaxing beaches for a peaceful afternoon taking in the golden rays as the waves roll onto the shore. Many of the beaches have installed public art exhibitions, including the leaning ‘Homentage a la Barceloneta’ monument.
Barceloneta Beach was the first public beach opened in the city and during the summer months is brimming with locals and tourists. Dotted along the shoreline you’ll find an array of amazing eateries serving only the freshest seafood. For easy access to Barceloneta, why not stay at W Barcelona? The sail-like design of this impressive hotel creates a striking view from the beach.
If you’re looking for somewhere to relax that’s slightly away from the bustle of Barcelona, Ocata in the north boasts pristine golden sands and sensational views, not to mention a plethora of restaurants to sample.
‘Homentage al la Barceloneta’ sculpture at Barceloneta Beach.
Food and Drink
Food is a huge deal in Spain and even though people have busy days at work, mealtime traditions are diligently upheld.
Peppered across the city are an abundance of bars and restaurants. For an authentic taste of Spain, tapas is the ultimate way to sample the diverse flavours via small plates of everything from meat and fish to vegetables and rice.
Catalonia is fiercely proud of its heritage and as such you’ll find plenty of local restaurants serving Catalan favourites including Escudella, a stew made with flavoursome meats and thickened with pasta. Barcelona has its fair share of Michelin starred restaurants including Lasarte. This chic restaurant holds two Michelin Stars and serves a menu that takes haute cuisine to new heights.
Pair your meals with a selection of the finest beverages. Catalonia is the birthplace of Cava so really there’s no excuse for not sampling the local wares during your visit to Barcelona. For a cold bottle of beer meanwhile, try Moritz; a beer that has been brewed in the city since 1856. And of course, no trip to Spain would be complete without enjoying a jug a sangria.
Tourist Attractions
Barcelona is home to some of the most world-famous sights, with both stunning architecture and vibrant design.
Designed by legendary architect Antoni Gaudi, Sagrada Familia is an instantly recognisable building and attracts around 3 million tourists annually. If you’re short on time, this is one place you must visit before you leave.
The building, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a testament to Gaudi’s genius and requires such detailed and precise engineering the building won’t be completed until between 2026-2028 at the earliest. The design incorporates Gothic and curvilinear Art Nouveau forms and is adorned with broken pottery to give it a shimmering façade that captures the imagination. Step inside and explore the cavernous aisles, the beauty of which is certainly not outdone by the exterior. For a hotel whose aesthetic focus compliments this iconic building, why not stay at the amazing Hotel Arts Barcelona, a centrally located hotel where stylish design is paramount.
The impressive towers of Sagrada Familia (still under construction!)
Experience the enchantment of Barcelona’s biggest ornamental fountain, Font Magica and watch in awe as the spectacular display of dancing water and vibrant light begins. If you’re visiting in the evening, the night sky will welcome the kaleidoscope of colour that graces it. What’s more, it’s free to visit so you can can just turn up and appreciate its artistry.
Parc del Laberint d’Horta, or Labyrinth Park as we may know it is one of Barcelona’s perhaps under-appreciated gems. It’s the oldest park in the city, built in 1791 and opened to the public in 1971, and is a sprawling expanse of perfectly manicured green space. Two gardens make up the main park, one with a neoclassical style and the other offering a romantic style. Inside you’ll find stunning flowers, lush green trees and a labyrinthal maze boasting hand carved statues. For a central location that makes it easy to reach all of Barcelona’s sights, consider a stay at the marvellous Melia Barcelona Sky.
Barcelona has so much to see and do that it’s no wonder so many find themselves returning again and again. At Kenwood Travel, our hotels provide you with the opportunity to appreciate this extraordinary city with a slice of luxury included. With great hotels offering a fantastic range of facilities in prime locations, you can explore the city from the comfort of your hotel.
To find out more about Barcelona, give us a call on 020 7749 9220 or visit our website.