Spain’s second largest city, Barcelona overshadows every other place in Spain. She is vibrant and elegant, she is quixotic and trendy, she is elegant and bohemian, and she is interesting and mysterious at the same time. Barcelona is unique among all European cities because she amalgamates many societies and cultures within her, and helps each one prosper with their own characteristic traits.
What to see:
The first stops on every tourist’s list are always the Gaudi buildings in Barcelona. They defy logic and colour co-ordination, they fascinate and puzzle you, and somehow manage to be elegant and quirky at the same time. Park Guell is one of the most delightful public places in this fascinating city. The musical fountain at Placa dÉspanya is a great place to spend a summer evening, watching the fountain and the fabulous view of the city from there. La Sagrada Familia, is a cathedral which is worth a visit. La Rambla is the best place to walk around and get a feel of the cosmopolitan nature of the city. A tree-lined, pedestrian avenue, it houses cuisines from all over the world, and in the evening most of Barcelona seems to be sitting around here.
What to eat:
Barcelona offers food of all types, but if you are looking for true Spanish meals, then look for restaurants which are off the beaten track and where you will find the locals partaking of their meals. There are many famous restaurants in this city, and if your budget permits, then you must visit at least one of them. There are numerous bars and nightclubs, and if you would like to watch a flamenco performance, then there are restaurants which specialize in them.
When to go:
Barcelona has great weather all the year round, but in August when the sun can be very hot. During summer it is a beach destination, and during winter the numerous festivals are a major tourist attraction.
