The diversity of Barcelona is what separates it from the rest for it is uncommon that a beach holiday can be combined so successfully as it can in this Spanish city. The city of Barcelona provides everything that you would expect from a bustling metropolis especially shopping and culture, but the fact the city has its own private beach provides even more reason to take a holiday in Barcelona. For the holiday maker that looks for a mix of sun, sea and city, Barcelona is the perfect holiday. p>
A holiday in Barcelona is unique because it offers both a Spanish beach getaway and city break in one bundle. As the capital city of Catalonia and the country’s second most highly populated city, you can be sure to find everything that comes with a busy city: architecture, history, culture and nightlife. Unlike most metropolises however, an escape to the beach is always well within reach.
Perhaps the most iconic image of Barcelona is the Basilica, the unfinished church designed by Antoni Gaudi that has been almost 100 years in the making. This striking monument in the centre of Barcelona is a piece of history that is still being created as well as a one of the most important architectural buildings in the world. To carry on your tour of Gaudi’s Barcelona, there are multiple buildings to see such as the Casa Vicens, La Pedrera and Case Batlló.
The history of Barcelona reaches back to the Roman Empire and proof of that can be seen in the city’s Gothic Quarter. Remains of the old Roman wall can be seen from this area along with multiple buildings from the Medieval period. If it is history that inspires, Barcelona has plenty to offer.
Food and drink make up a large part of what it means to visit Barcelona. Tapas is a great way to taste a variety of local dishes without spending too much – many bars in fact offer Tapas for free with drinks. Barcelona offers a number of Tapas tours that will take you to some of the less well known Tapas bars and there is always a guide to explain what is being served and how it is made. While sampling the food, try not to forget the to try Barcelona’s famous Sangria.
Barcelona beach has been twice rated as the best city beach in the world. Each of the city’s beaches are accessible by metro and span several kilometres, giving beach goers plenty of choice in where they lay their towels. If you are looking for more of a festive atmosphere, there are numerous bars along the shoreline.
La Rambla, an old river that was converted into a winding boulevard in the 1600s, is a great place to stroll during the afternoon or early evening. Either side of the path between the trees are kiosks, cafes, street performers. There are also numerous bars that are ideal for sitting and people watching. Slightly off from the path lies La Boqueria market which sells an array of goods and off another street is the Plaça Reial which is home to a number of restaurants, popular with both tourists and locals alike.
Of course, football is a massive part of life in Barcelona, and many tourists flock to see Camp Nou, the largest football stadium in Europe. It is not necessary to queue for tickets to a game though, as guided tours of FC Barcelona’s home ground happen regularly. Or for the thrifty, there is always the cheaper audio guide service.
Barcelona has something for any holiday maker, book with Swiss Holidays to see the amazing city first hand.