Best Things to Do in Barcelona

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Best Things To Do In Barcelona

Barcelona, 3 Days

Itinerary Overview 2

Daily Itineraries 4

Unscheduled Items 13

Barcelona Snapshot 14

Itinerary Overview things to do

restaurants

hotels

bars, clubs & nightlife

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Day 1 - BarcelonaDAY NOTE: This is a great first day in Barcelona as it givesyou an informal, yet exciting and full walking tour of the city.Start at the beach (Barceloneta) tan for a few hours or just walkalong the boardwalk before proceeding to Las Ramblas andup to Placa Catalunya. Head up from Placa Catalunya ontoPasseig de Gracia and stop at Casa Fuster Hotel on the way.This famous hotel is where Woody Allen frequents during hisvisits, often playing a bit of music in the hotel lobby. Finish theday with a quaint, romantic and reasonably priced dinner atSalero restaurant in the Born. It's best to make a reservationat Salero as it's not very big and fills up quickly, especially onweekends.

Barri de La BarcelonetaThe district by the sea

Las RamblasBarcelona's busiest street

Plaça CatalunyaBarcelona's main square

Passeig de GràciaCatalan modernism and elegant fashion

Casa Fuster HotelA relaxing place in the city center

SaleroContemporary Asian-influenced cuisine

Day 2 - BarcelonaDAY NOTE: Wake up early and head straight to Gaudi's, ParcGuell. The easiest way to get there is to take the green metroline and hop off at the Vallcarca stop. From there it's only abouta 10 minute walk. If you get to the park early in the morning youcan spend a few hours admiring Gaudi's work before walkingback into the city while stopping at the Sagrada Familia. This isa busy day with a lot of walking, yet it's full of some of Gaudi'sbest architectural designs. After checking out the Sagrada Familiahead to Placa Espanya and if you're there during a weekendFriday and Saturday nights have an awesome magic fountainshow with music and lights. Afterwards for a cheap, local dinner,La Veronica in the Raval boasts some of the tastiest pizza and it'sa great way to check out another barrio. If you still have an ounce

of energy left after dinner, Bikini night club is always happening,especially on Monday nights when most other clubs are closed.

Hostal ParísWarm, friendly and full of character

Sagrada FamiliaGaudí's most important work

Plaça EspanyaThe old gateway to Barcelona

Parc GüellAmazing architectural mixture

Verónica (La)For the young ones

BikiniNightclub, bar and salsa house

Day 3 - BarcelonaDAY NOTE: This is a great day to explore the Gothic Quarter(Gotico) while experiencing a truly local taste of Barcelona life.Spend most of the day strolling along the streets of the Goticochecking out the great shops on Calle Ferran and Avinyo wherethere's plenty of small niche boutiques with designer clothesand antiques. The best time to take the walking tour with theCathedral and the Picasso museum is in the afternoon whenmany of the shops are closed (2-5) and then finish the day withan evening tapas walking tour that will take you from the Goticoto the Born, right across the way. For a mid day sangria (6-8 pm)check out the terrace at the Majestic Hotel. Anyone can have adrink at the top, you don’t need to be a guest and it’s definitelyworth it for the spectacular view of the city. If you’re up for somenight time entertainment, Penultimo is an excellent pick, almostevery day of the week.

Tapas Evening Walking Tour ofBarcelonaCity Walk

Carrer FerranWalking street

Itinerary Overview things to do

restaurants

hotels

bars, clubs & nightlife

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Barri GòticWandering around

Majestic HotelGreat rooftop and prime location

PenúltimoThe art of El Born

Walking tour of Gothic Quarter with theCathedral and Picasso MuseumMedieval meanderings

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Day 1 - BarcelonaQUICK NOTE

DAY NOTE: This is a great first day in Barcelona as it gives you an informal, yet exciting and full walking tour of the city. Start at thebeach (Barceloneta) tan for a few hours or just walk along the boardwalk before proceeding to Las Ramblas and up to Placa Catalunya.Head up from Placa Catalunya onto Passeig de Gracia and stop at Casa Fuster Hotel on the way. This famous hotel is where WoodyAllen frequents during his visits, often playing a bit of music in the hotel lobby. Finish the day with a quaint, romantic and reasonablypriced dinner at Salero restaurant in the Born. It's best to make a reservation at Salero as it's not very big and fills up quickly, especiallyon weekends.

Day 1 - continued...

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contact:tel: +34 93 285 3834 (touristinformation)http://www.barcelonaturisme.com/

1 Barri de La Barceloneta

DESCRIPTION: What used to be one of the dodgiestneighbourds in Barcelona, is now thriving with tourists, localsand all those who appreciate living by the sea. Barcelonetais a diamond in the rough as it posseses both that genuinebarrio feel, while at the same time its home to some of themost delicious and well known touristy restaurants in the city.Visit the many seaside patios and chiringuitos for the must trySpanish paella and daytime sangria before hitting up the beach.A perfect place for Sunday strolls with the family, bike rides,surfing and kite surfing or ideal for just working on the tan,Barceloneta is never dull, especially between the months fromMay-September. The best time to make a beach appearanceis in the morning, as it doesn't usually fill up until 1 pm when itoften overflows with people. Barceloneta is also home to theMaritime Museum, the casino, as well as some of the mostpopular (and cheesy) night clubs the city has to offer. There'salso a great little plaza across from the market equipped withping pong tables and a small park for the kids. © NileGuide

contact:http://www.barcelonaturisme.com/

location:Barcelona

2 Las Ramblas

DESCRIPTION: Whether or not you've been to Barcelona,everyone's heard of Las Ramblas. One of the most renownedwalkways in Europe and perhaps the world, this incrediblestretch starts at el Colon (Christopher Columbus Statue) by thesea and extends all the way until Plaza Catalunya. Sprinkledwith street vendors selling everything from fine jewelry to cagedpigeons, the greatest attraction on Las Ramblas is the one of akind street performers. Depicting the most innovative costumesit's possible to stare at a man sitting perfectly still on a toilet foras long as it takes until someone drops a Euro in his bucketand he makes a funny face. Overcrowded and a hot spot forpickpockets and prostitutes, Las Ramblas is still a definite mustsee if you're coming to Barcelona. © NileGuide

location:Barcelona 08002 3 Plaça Catalunya

DESCRIPTION: If coming to Barcelona, you have to frequentPlaca Catalunya. One of, if not the most popular plaza inBarcelona, this 5000 meter square is the cross roads betweenwhere the old city and the new city meet. Sitting at the top ofthe Gotico and Raval and leading into the Eixample and Gracianeighbourhoods, Placa Catalunya is not only a landmark buta gathering point for locals and tourists alike. Hosting outdoor,free concerts and celebrations, Placa Catalunya is right nextto El Corte Ingles, FNAC and an abundance of other popularshops and cafes. There’s always something happening in theplaza, even if it’s just hippies sitting and playing guitar whilechildren run around screaming, it’s never dull. © NileGuide


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location:Barcelona 4 Passeig de Gràcia

DESCRIPTION: The Champs-Elysees of Barcelona, Passeig de Gracia is the best place to go todo a little shopping, enjoy some entertaining people watching while sipping a café on an outdoorpatio, or just a great place to stroll up from Placa Catalunya and into the Gracia neighbourhood.Showcasing popular names and brands such as, Louis Vitton, Gucci, Armand Bassi as well astrendy Spanish stores like Zara and Mango, Passeig de Gracia is one of Barcelona’s chiceststreets. Full of wide sidewalks, interesting people and tasty restaurants and tapas bars, Passeigde Gracia always has an energetic and exciting buzz. It is also one of the most easily accessiblestreets, as it’s in the center of the city and has direct connection to most of the metro lines includingthe yellow and green lines. If you want to shop in ‘peace’ try to come during the week, as weekendsare packed. © NileGuide

contact:tel: 93-2553000www.hotelcasafuster.com

location:Passeig De Gracia, De 132Barcelona 8008

5 Casa Fuster Hotel

DESCRIPTION: Modernist monument built in 1908, locatedon Paseo de Gracia in Barcelona city center, 500 meters fromGaudi buildings.Rooms have warm décor in shades of brown and plum;all feature bathrobes, toiletries, newspapers and Internetconnections.Away from the bustle of the city, guests can enjoy the viewsfrom the terrace and relax in the sauna and jetted tub.© Editor

contact:tel: 34 93 319 8022

location:08003

hours:M-F 8:45a-5:30p, M-Th 8p-2a,F-Sa 8p-3a

6 Salero

DESCRIPTION: This restaurant is one of the many popular places in El Born. It used to be a saltstorehouse, but was later converted into a welcoming bar-restaurant. White is the predominantcolor. The furniture is amazing and the bar is enormous. It is always full of trendy, modern youngpeople. The menu changes with the seasons and offers delightful salads, steamed vegetables,warm pears, teriyaki chicken, etc. Their desserts are home-made, the music is well-chosen and thewine list is splendid. © wCities

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DAY NOTE: Wake up early and head straight to Gaudi's, Parc Guell. The easiest way to get there is to take the green metro line andhop off at the Vallcarca stop. From there it's only about a 10 minute walk. If you get to the park early in the morning you can spend afew hours admiring Gaudi's work before walking back into the city while stopping at the Sagrada Familia. This is a busy day with a lot ofwalking, yet it's full of some of Gaudi's best architectural designs. After checking out the Sagrada Familia head to Placa Espanya and ifyou're there during a weekend Friday and Saturday nights have an awesome magic fountain show with music and lights. Afterwards fora cheap, local dinner, La Veronica in the Raval boasts some of the tastiest pizza and it's a great way to check out another barrio. If youstill have an ounce of energy left after dinner, Bikini night club is always happening, especially on Monday nights when most other clubsare closed.

contact:tel: +34 93 301 3785fax: +34 93 301 3785

location:Barcelona

1 Hostal París

DESCRIPTION: Looking for an accommodation that is cheapand centrally located? This hostel could be your pick. It'snestled between the Ramblas and Plaça del Pi. The building'slate 19th-century façade is painted with charming plant motifsand looks great after its restoration in 1992. Ask for one of thequiet, cozy bedrooms overlooking the Carrer Casanyas. ©wCities


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contact:tel: +34 93 207 3031fax: +34 (0)93 476 1010http://www.sagradafamilia.org

location:Barcelona 08013

hours:Oct-Mar Daily 9a-6p, Apr-SepDaily 9a-8p

2 Sagrada Familia

DESCRIPTION: Gaudi’s masterpiece and a building that someskeptics doubt will ever be completed, the Sagrada Familiahas been under construction since 1882 and is expected tocontinue until 2026. If not THE most popular and renownedpiece of Gaudi architecture, the Sagrada Familia is situatedin the center of the city close to the Eixample and Gracianeighbourhoods and thus it's easily accessible. Since thebeginning, the Sagrada Familia has been privately funded byboth investors and donations from the over two million visitorswho frequent it each year. Although not yet fully open to thepublic, guided tours are available inside, as well as a lift to thetower that gives way to a breathtaking view of Barcelona. ©NileGuide


hours:24 hrs

3 Plaça Espanya

DESCRIPTION: Situated at the foot of Montjuic, in the districof Sants-Montjuic, lies Placa Espanya. One of Barcelona’smost well known squares and designed by one of Gaudi’sdisciples, Placa Espanya is a great place to visit not only for itsfamous ‘magic fountain’ performance, but because of its closeproximity to almost everything. It’s just a short walk from theup and coming barrio, Poble Sec and is also walking distanceto cool sites such as the National Art Museum of Catalonia,one of Spain's finest. Originally built in 1929 to be used forthe Universal Exposition, today Placa Espanya is used by thepublic for all types of gatherings and events. © NileGuide

contact:tel: +34 93 317 39 74http://www.gaudiallgaudi.com/AA010.htm


hours:Nov-Feb 10a-6p, Mar-Oct10a-7p, Apr-Sep 10a-8p,May-Aug 10a-9p

4 Parc Güell

DESCRIPTION: One of Barcelona's greatest attractions andone of the few that are absolutely free, is Gaudi's incrediblePark Guell. Get anywhere near the Vallcarca stop on the greenline and you'll see tourists lumped together, maps in hand,asking locals for Park 'Guay'. Designed and built by Gaudibetween 1900 and 1914, this spectacular mix of garden, parkand architectural dream is a small oasis within Barcelona. Fromthe mosaic benches, to the meticulously tiled rooftops, ParkGuell is both fascinating as it is serene. One of the best placesto spend a sunny day, the park is a great place to listen tomusic, enjoy a few copas of vino or just relax with a good book.© NileGuide

contact:tel: 34 93 329 3303

hours:Tu-Su 1p-1a,

5 Verónica (La)

DESCRIPTION: This functional spot was designed for young people. It is decorated with hugewindows and careful style, and attracts a heterogeneous clientele daily. Some of the customers areartists, representing the Barri Gòtic's ambience. They offer a starters menu with varied salads and


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some surprises, and a pizza menu with odd combinations such as Roquefort cheese with apple andsalmon with mint. The waiters are fast, attentive and always smiling. Try any of the chef's pastriesfor dessert. In the summer you can enjoy your meal at the tables outdoors. © wCities

contact:tel: 34 93 322 0800fax: 34 93 322 0900http://www.bikinibcn.com

location:Carrer De Déu I Mata 105Barcelona Barcelona 08029

hours:Call for details

6 Bikini

DESCRIPTION: This club attracting large crowds because of the spectacular interior decor and thechoice of music played. It is divided into three rooms—the Sala Rock room for dance music androck, Sala Arutanga for salsa and other Latin rhythms, and Sala Dry for light music where you canhave a drink and chat with your friends. The club organizes live concerts which sometimes featurewell-known international artists. The cover charge includes one free drink. © wCities

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DAY NOTE: This is a great day to explore the Gothic Quarter (Gotico) while experiencing a truly local taste of Barcelona life. Spend mostof the day strolling along the streets of the Gotico checking out the great shops on Calle Ferran and Avinyo where there's plenty of smallniche boutiques with designer clothes and antiques. The best time to take the walking tour with the Cathedral and the Picasso museumis in the afternoon when many of the shops are closed (2-5) and then finish the day with an evening tapas walking tour that will take youfrom the Gotico to the Born, right across the way. For a mid day sangria (6-8 pm) check out the terrace at the Majestic Hotel. Anyone canhave a drink at the top, you don’t need to be a guest and it’s definitely worth it for the spectacular view of the city. If you’re up for somenight time entertainment, Penultimo is an excellent pick, almost every day of the week.

contact:http://www.partner.viator.com/en/6793/tours/Barcelona/Tapas-Evening-Walking-Tour-of-Barcelona/d562-3394BCN01TAPA

location:Barcelona

1 Tapas Evening Walking Tour ofBarcelona

DESCRIPTION:Combine gourmet food and Catalan culture on a pre-dinnerwalking tour of Barcelona's famous tapas bars. It's a greatway to begin your visit of Barcelona – not only do you get anoverview of this fabulous city, you also learn how to order tapas(bar snacks) and discover some of the best bars and cafesBarcelona has to offer. Plus, your friendly, informative guidecan offer suggestions to help you get the most from your stay inBarcelona.Your tapas walking tour of Barcelona begins at a restaurantoffering a wide selection of local, delectable tapas. Here youwill enjoy three tapas with a glass of wine or beer, while yourfood and wine guide provides insights into the flavors of thewine, the cuisine and Spanish culture.

viator


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From here your guide will lead you to Barcelona's most famousstreet, La Rambla, with its bird cages, tapas bars and localrestaurants. On your stroll down La Rambla you will make adetour to La Boqueria, the city's famous food market whichoffers an array of fresh produce including fruit and vegetables,live seafood, cheeses and every type of meat imaginable.You'll continue to the Gothic Quarter, where you will discoverthe architecture, atmosphere, language and gastronomy thatare unique to Spain, and some of the gourmet shops which areover 100 years old.Your last stop will be at a Basque bar in a historic 14th-centurybuilding, an ideal spot to take a break on your trip through theGothic Quarter. Here three tasty tapas and a glass of wine,beer or cider will be waiting for you.© Viatorlocation:

Barcelona 08002 2 Carrer Ferran

DESCRIPTION: Extending from the Liceu on the Ramblas toPlaça Sant Jaume, this is where Saint James' Church wasconstructed in the fourteenth century, on the site of an ancientsynagogue. Today only the facade of this church remains,the rest of the building dates from the XVI and XVII centuries.The rest of the buildings on the street are from later periods.It has been changed to a walking street, making it much morepleasurable to stroll along. There are a lot of shops and caféshere as well - check out the grocers' shops that still havewonderful display windows like in past. © wCities

contact:tel: +34 93 368 9730 (touristinformation)http://www.barcelonaturisme.com/

location:Barcelona Barcelona 08002


3 Barri Gòtic

DESCRIPTION: One of the oldest neighbourhoods in Barcelona, the Gotico remains at the heart ofBarcelona's downtown district. Both grungy and trendy, this neighbourhood is filled with small nooksand crannies, bars, cool restaurants, niche shops and eclectic jewelers. Just a stone's throw fromthe Born and the beach, the Gotico is home to Barcelona's magnificent Cathedral which dates backto 14th century. It is also home to Placa Reial, the most well known square for backpackers as it'shome to the ever so popular Kabul Hostel. © NileGuide


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contact:tel: 93-4881717www.hotelmajestic.es

location:Passeig De Gracia, De 68Barcelona Barcelona 8007

4 Majestic Hotel

DESCRIPTION: Rooftop pool above, designer boutiquesbelowThis hotel enjoys a prime location on the Passeig de Gràcia,just two blocks from Gaudí’s La Pedrera and Casa Batlló andwalking distance to Las Ramblas.All 303 recently redecorated guestrooms featureMediterranean colors and wireless Internet access. Luxuriousrooftop penthouse just added.On the rooftop terrace with panoramic views are a swimmingpool and a bar, which leads to a health center with sauna andsteam room. © Editor

contact:tel: 34 93 310 2596

location:Passeig del Born 19Barcelona Barcelona 08003

hours:Daily 10p-2:30a

5 Penúltimo

DESCRIPTION: Music, theatre and other artistic concepts gather in this spot. The music, mainlyfunk and dance, is to be enjoyed on the dance floor—non-stop. The live performances are well-chosen and of high professional quality. It is a very promising place, interesting and an excellentchance to have great fun. Great choice for a night out. © wCities

contact:tel: +34 93 285 3834 (TouristOffice)http://www.euroadventures.net/ViewProduct.asp

location:Barcelona


6 Walking tour of Gothic Quarter with the Cathedral andPicasso Museum

DESCRIPTION: On any given day, one of the most popular questions to be asked while strollingaround Barcelona is: Where can I find the Cathedral? One of the most poignant landmarks inthe city, this Romanesque architectural vision, is located in the Gothic Quarter (barrio Gotico) ofBarcelona and attracts streams of tourists day and night. The Cathedral has been reformed andrebuilt several times and when looking closely it’s easy to see the architectural differences fromacross the centuries. In addition to the Cathedral, the Gotico has a host of incredible Gothic stylebuildings, small quaint squares and of course the Picasso Museum. © NileGuide

Unscheduled Items

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contact:tel: 34 93 209 89 92

location:Carrer del Mestre Nicolau 4Barcelona Barcelona 08021

hours:Daily 6p-2:30a

1 Zanzíbar Cocktails

DESCRIPTION: The decor, laid out like bars in New York in the 1940s, sends you back in time andis quite cinematographic; the music, too, is mainly film soundtracks. They often have exhibitions onthe Seventh Art (Cinema). The clientèle is mainly young and middle-high class because of the bar'slocation in one of the most exclusive districts in Barcelona. In addition to all sorts of cocktails anddrinks, they have a selection of 25 different whiskeys and 15 malt whiskey. © wCities

contact:tel: 34 93 3172177http://www.cityhall-bcn.com/

location:Rambla de Catalunya 2-4Barcelona Barcelona 08007


2 Barcelona City Hall

DESCRIPTION: This theatre is built on the site of the old Teatre Barcelona, which was destroyed. Ithas one auditorium, seating 220, and puts on musicals and concerts at varying times. It also opensits doors to other less common performing arts. Its most original shows are the dinner shows, whichbegin at 9p. The food is always good, and there is a lively atmosphere. © wCities

contact:tel: 34 93 441 4001http://www.nitsa.com

location:Carrer Nou de la Rambla 113Barcelona Barcelona 08004

hours:F-Sa 11p-5a

3 Nitsa

DESCRIPTION: This old theatre converted into a club offers good music and company. Themajority of customers are modern, and very fashionable. The music is good: techno, electro andhouse in the main room, pop in the Picnic Bar and hip-hop in the Def Room. There is a monthlyprogramme with international DJs, and the regulars are Fra DJ, Sesentaynueve, Coco, Chelin,Mario, dani Mother and Rasco. There are usually no problems getting in, although image isimportant and the clientele can be quite pretentious. © wCities

contact:tel: 34 93 319 2120fax: 34 93 319 1074http://www.comerc24.com/

location:Carrer Comerç 24Sant Feliu De Llobregat

hours:Tu-Sa 1:30p-3:30p &8:30p-12:30p

4 Comerç 24

DESCRIPTION: This pride of the Born District is the business venture of Carles Abellan. Arestaurant-cum-tapas bar, the venue also serves certain Asian, American and Italian specialties.There are three distinct seating areas, but the tall pillars, high ceiling, spotlights and yellow tonerun through the whole interior. Besides delectable drinks, the bar with its individual table-space alsofeatures cold dishes prepared right in front of you. The dining section accommodates around 40people and can be rented for private events. A visit here is a must; make sure to reserve a table inadvance. © wCities

Barcelona Snapshot

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Local InfoOld TownBarcelona's old town, orCiutat Vella, isthe heart of the city. It's made up of manysmall neighborhoods, full of old-worldcharacter, linked by narrow, winding streets.Students, foreigners and artists thrive in thisarea, attracted by its sense of history andcosmopolitan feel along with its trendy bars,concert halls and good restaurants.

Start your tour from Plaça Catalunyaand take Les Rambles(or Las Ramblasin Spanish) towards the sea. On theright, you'll find the Raval district with itsmuseums, art galleries and notorious red-light area,Barri Xines. On your left, themedieval Barri Gòtic(Gothic Quarter) ishome to the cathedral, peaceful Plaça delPi, art galleries and lots of cafés servingdelicious hot chocolate. If you go evenfurther left, across busy Via Laietana, you'llcome to Born market, in La Ribera district.This trendy neighborhood is also home tothe graceful Santa Maria del Mar Churchand the impressive Museu Picasso.

L'Eixample

When the old town became overpopulatedin the mid-19th century, the city expandedinland, north of Plaça Catalunya.The streets of the new suburb, calledL'Eixample, or"The Extension", were laidout in a grid pattern. Catalanmodernista(ArtNouveau) architects designed a numberof striking buildings in the area aroundPasseig de Gràcia and Rambla Catalunya.

You'll find the extraordinary SagradaFamilia on the right-hand side of L'Eixampleif you're coming from the Old Town. Thiscontroversial church, unfinished becauseof the untimely death of its architect, AntoniGaudí, in 1926, has become the city's mostvisited monument.

As Barcelona expanded further north, morenew neighborhoods were built. Villageswere absorbed within the city boundariesgiving rise to districts like the charmingGràcia, Les Corts, Sarrià and Hortà-Guinardò, up in the hills.

The working-class neighborhood of Santsmarks the city's southern boundary and hasexcellent public transport to the center.

Green Areas

Montjüic Hill, in the southwest of the city,offers many attractions including theOlympic stadium and other facilities usedfor the 1992 Olympic Games, along with theimpressive Fundació Miró. The best way toget to the hill is to take the cable car fromthe nearby harbor.

Barcelona's other major green area is 1800-foot Tibidabo Hill to the northwest, with itspanoramic views of the city, amusementpark on the summit and Torre deComunicaciones de Collserola(CollserolaCommunications Tower).

Both Montjüic and Tibidabo offer goodsports facilities as well, like tennis, jogging,and horseback riding. It's easiest to getthere by car, though you could also takethe cable car to Montjüic, which the kids willlove. The cable car also offers a great viewof the city.

The Seaside

The mild Mediterranean climate and calmseas mean you can sail and windsurf allyear round from Port Olímpic(OlympicPort). Little boats(golondrinas) leaving fromthe harbor will take you on a sightseeingtour of the city's waterfront and nearbycoastline. The fishing district of Barcelonetaoffers excellent seafood restaurants. Ultra-modern Maremagnum has busy barswith outdoor terraces, discos, shops andcinemas. You'll also find trendy open-air music bars in Port Olímpic in thesummer. Half an hour's journey to thesouth, Sitges' pretty beaches attract acosmopolitan crowd. For more peacefulsurroundings, head north to one of CostaBrava's deserted coves.

Sant Adrià de Besòs- El Fòrum

Constructed and remodeled to host theFòrum de Les Cultures in 2004, this arealocated to the north of the city has bloomedas a new cultural center. The beautifularchitecture, designed by Jacques Herzogand Pierre de Meuron, as well as thenumerous events that take place in theultra-modern location of Parc del Fòrum,such as Primavera Sound or Summercase,attract thousands of visitors every year.

© wCities 2009

HistoryThe 1992 Olympic Games turned theworld's eye to this age old city that hasbeen, and continues to be, a modernpresence in Spain. Barcelona has manydistricts, giving it the feel of a large, Romancity with an old, Gothic atmosphere. Asa powerful Mediterranean port and thecapital of Catalonia, this rich, historicalpast is the foundation on which the newcity was based. Barcelona's residents areopen-minded and cosmopolitan, bringinga Bohemian flavor to the city that liesbetween the mountains and sea.

Romans arrived in Tarragona, making ittheir first priority, and giving Barcelonasubordinate status. Later in the Visigothicperiod, this Roman capital par excellence,also had a downward fall.

After a century of Muslim dominion, therewas a period of intense commercial activityand religious coexistence between Jews,Christians and Muslims. With the arrivalof the Christian governors to the city,the Muslim community was forced into aprisoner zone named The Call. In presentday, The Call is located around the streetsPalla, Banys Nous, Bisbe and Plaça SantJaume. Already, the large city had beennamed the Condal City, acting as themighty capital of Old Catalonia. Followingthe expansionist interests of Corona deAragón, Barcelona developed a powerfulnaval base. Catalano-Aragonese's powerextended as far as Sicily, Sardinia, Malta,Naples, Albania, Corsica and part ofGreece. They pioneered, establishing socialnorms, marine rules and other customs thatwould later be imitated in other Europeancities. In the 15th century, the Maximainstitution of self-government of Cataloniawas given an admirable seat in the Palaude la Generalitat. The medieval growthof the city is represented in its Gothicarchitecture, with magnificent works likethe cathedral, the churches of Sant Just,and Sant Jaume, and the basilicas of SantaMaría del Pi and Santa María del Mar

After the 15th-century reign of Castilla,Barcelona, Catalonia and the Kingdomof Aragón fell into a deep economicand political depression because of themarriage between Isabel and Fernando(thefamous post-Muslim era Catholicmonarchs). During these years, conquestand colonization in America damaged

Barcelona Snapshot continued

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Mediterranean commerce during the heightof Turkey's great marine power. The finalblow came when Archduke Carlos ofAustria, whom Barcelona supported, lostthe War of Spanish Succession.

During the Industrial Revolution and theperiod of cultural renaissance, the citygrew to its maximum splendor. With thiscame the literary rebirth of the Catalanlanguage and the modernist movement, inwhich artists and architects alike created acity that would be admired worldwide. Allthese movements were led by the industrialbourgeoisie, and influenced by thenationalistic movements of the Europeancountries that resisted the Castellanizadoraforce. The houses built in the BarcelonianEixample display architecture from adiverse range of historical influences.Ildefons Cerdà, influenced by local folklore,designed rectangular buildings for thebourgeois. The most well-known and lovedartist during this period was Antoni Gaudí,who designed remarkable, modernistworks, such as the La Sagrada Familia,Casa Milà(La Pedrera), the Casa Batlló,and the Parc Güell.

During the postwar period and FranciscoFranco's dictatorship, a political andcultural repression occurred acrossSpain until Franco's death in 1975. Sincethen, democracy has reigned. Under themandate of Pasqual Maragall, the citybegan the construction of infrastructuresnecessary for the 1992 Olympic Games.Some of these structures are the OlympicVila, of accentuated modern design, theAnella Olimpica of Montjüic and the PortOlimpic.

© wCities 2009

Restaurants HighlightsBarcelona's many restaurants and barsoffer the best of Catalonia's diverse cuisine.Other Mediterranean countries, like Franceand Italy, have heavily influenced Catalancooking, which features lots of fresh fruitand vegetables, seafood, pork and veal.

Catalans love cold meats or(embutidos) ofall sorts, especially pork sausage(butifarra).The staple dish isbutifarra amb mongetes,a stew of pork sausage and whitebeans.Escudella is a traditional stew madewith sausage, chickpeas, pasta and agiant pork meatball. It's generally eatenat Christmas time and followed bycrema

catalana, a sweet egg custard toppedwith caramelized sugar that has becomea popular dessert throughout Spain.Fish is also a major part of the Catalandiet.Zarzuela is a tasty seafood casserolethat originated in Barcelona and spread toother parts of the country.Bacallà a la llaunais cod cooked in a tin dish. In summer, youcan enjoy lighter dishes likeescalibada(redpeppers mixed with eggplant and onions)andesqueixada(red peppers with codand onions). Or head for one of the manyfarmhouse(masía) restaurants on theoutskirts of the city and try some traditionaldishes. If you're lucky, the restaurant willservecalçotada, a sauce(calçots) madefrom tender spring onions served on anoven-fired tile, followed by grilled meat.Catalan dishes are usually accompaniedbypan con tomate, country-style breadsmeared liberally with ripe tomato, olive oiland salt.

There are eight different areas in Cataloniathat produce good quality wines. The regionis famous for its white wines from thePenedés area andcava, sparkling whitewines. There are also quality red wines,particularly from the Priorato area.

Gothic Quarter, Raval& La Ribera

Basque cuisine is served in Irati andZure Etxea. You'll find three famoustraditional Catalan restaurants worthvisiting in the area around Monumentoa Colón(Columbus Monument): Cal'Isidre, Botafumeiro and Casa Leopoldo.For bullfighting memorabilia and tapas,try Los Toreros on Calle Xuclà, closeto Las Ramblas. There are also someseafood restaurants with great views in theMaremàgnum, an ultra-modern shoppingcenter by the harbor, close to Las Ramblas.

This part of town is also great for drinks-you'll find traditional, old-fashioned barsand cafés as well as trendy, modern placeswith stylish interior decor, like Glaciarat the Plaça Reial. Nearby, check outSidecar. There's a good selection of pubson Calle Escudellers on your way intothe well-known Plaça George Orwell. Forpure modernist style inside and out, try ElAscensor. If you want to sit outside andenjoy an impressive view with your drinks,try the square that looks on to Santa Maríadel Mar, Plaça del Pi or Sant Felip Neri.

L'Eixample

This part of town has quite a few Galicianrestaurants like the famous Beltxenea,which offers a variety of traditional dishes.Don't miss the finger foods at Tapa Tapa.

Barceloneta& The Born

There are plenty of reasonably-pricedseafood restaurants down by the harborthat specialize in paella and the Catalanequivalent,fideuà, which is noodle-basedrather than rice-based.Arròs negre is a kindof paella cooked in a stock of squid's ink.Can Ramonet and Set Portes are two of thebest places for rice dishes in this district.Munch on great tapas at Moncho's.

If it's drinks you seek, Passeig del Bornis lined with trendy bars and the adjacentstreets are full of well-preserved medievalhouses and mansions. This area attractscouples and groups in their 30s and 40slooking for sophisticated, relaxing andintimate bars like the Miramelindo, Saleroand Gimlet.

Port Olímpic

The seafood restaurants at Port Olímpicdisplay their fresh fish in cases by the doorand many offer sea views.

Horta, Guinardó& Alfons X

Lots of informal tapas restaurants arelocated along Passeig de Gràcia andRambla Catalunya. Traditional tapasare small portions of things likepescaítofrito(mixture of deep-fried Mediterraneanfish),patatas bravas(chunks of potato,deep-fried and served with spicy garlicsauce),calamares a la romana(squidrings fried in batter) andboquerones envinagre(marinated anchovies). For the besttapas in the whole city, try La Esquinica.However, make sure you come earlybecause there is a line every night.

Plaça Catalunya

It's tapas central at Ciudad Condal, but thisbustling square knows no bounds in termsof culinary diversity.

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Nightlife HighlightsBarcelona has become a fashionable touristdestination. Television coverage of the 1992Olympic Games stimulated lots of interestin the city around the world. Visitors are

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attracted by the mild climate, Mediterraneanwaterfront, sunshine, art, culture, friendlypeople and unique Catalan features, likeAntoni Gaudì's modernist architecture. It'seasy to have fun in Barcelona. There arecolorful localfiestas(holidays and festivals)throughout the year along with a widevariety of national and international cinema,theater, music and dance festivals andperformances. The city's nightclubs offergreat music and atmosphere every nightof the week, and are especially busy fromThursday to Sunday.

Museums& Galleries

Art lovers should head straight forMNAC(Catalonia's National Art Museum),with its exhibits of Catalan Romanesqueart, and MACBA(Barcelona's Museumof Contemporary Art). Nearby, you'll findgalleries devoted to individual artists,including Museu Picasso, Fundació Miróand Antoni Tàpies.

Architecture

To see the best examples of Catalonia'sunique Gothic architecture, you shouldcheck out Basílica de Santa María del Marand Basílica de Santa María del Pi. Forthe best in modernist architecture, head forPedrera, Casa Batlló, Sagrada Familia, andParc Güell.

Nightlife

The most popular nightclubs are withinwalking distance of each other downby the harbor area, in Port Olímpic andMaremàgnum. The variety is endless. You'llfind places playing techno, salsa, rock,Spanish pop music and more. Karma is apopular club in this area.

Live Music

L'Eixample district has many live musicvenues, including the famous Luz de Gas.

Bikini, a popular nightclub, also hostsconcerts during the evenings. To enjoyalternative and Spanish local bands, takethe metro to Razzmatazz, Sidecar orBeCool. You'll also find live shows in theGòtic district.

Discos& Clubs

In the Maremàgnum and Port Olímpicyou'll find a number of discos with plentyof atmosphere and different kinds ofmusic. These two districts have a verycosmopolitan feel, given that they aremostly frequented by tourists from all overthe world. To merge with the locals, takepublic transportation to L'Eixample, BarriGòtic or Poble Nou.

© wCities 2009

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