Miami Platja | Cambrils | Salou | Tarragona | Calafell | Sitges | Barcelona | Sant Pere de Ribes

Barcelona

Though Catalunya has many other cities of historical, economic and artistic importance, such as Girona, Tarragona, Lleida, Vic, Tortosa, Manresa and Figueres, its unrivalled capital for countless centuries has been Barcelona.

The self-confident and progressive capital of Catalunya, is a tremendous place to be. Though it boasts outstanding Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings, and some great museums, most notably those dedicated to Picasso, Dali and Catalan art, it is above all a place where there's enjoyment simply in walking the streets, stopping in at bars and cafes, drinking in the atmosphere. A thriving port and the most prosperous commercial centre in Spain, it has a sophistication and cultural dynamism way ahead of the rest of the country. In part this reflects the city's proximity to France, whose influence is apparent in the elegant boulevards and imaginative cooking. But Barcelona has also evolved an individual and eclectic cultural identity, most perfectly and eccentrically expressed in the architecture of Antoni Gaudi. The planning for the 1992 Summer Olympics led to a new wave of civic pride, culminating in gleaming, renovated monuments and some spectacular modern buildings too.

At any time of the year Barecelona is alive with numerous cultural, commercial and sports attractions, concerts, operas, plays, exhibitions, good restaurants, international fairs, shops and art galleries. Barcelona, is one of Europe's great cities, is a place well worth visiting and once you get to know it, you will return time and time again.

top of page