Barcelona Travel Guide
This bustling city is the capital of Catalonia and is situated off the northeast Mediterranean coast of Spain. Barcelona offers a multitude of golden beaches, rich cultural history and entertainment and attractions to please any taste.
With a history that dates back to 15 BC, Barcelona was first inhabited by the Romans. Remarkably, there are still wonderful examples of Roman influence, as can be seen in the ruins of Plaça del Rei and the remains of the 4th century La Seu Cathedral. The ruins, set against the city's backdrop, are picturesque and give a feeling of living history.
The city boasts amazing medieval architecture mixed with Catalan Art Nouveau. Barri Gòtic, or the Gothic quarter, and its labyrinthine streets display, many buildings from the medieval period. Most popular is Las Ramblas, perhaps the world's most famous pedestrianised street, which bissects the city as it runs from Port Vell to Placa de Catalunya. It's lined with al freso bistros, artists displays and buskers, making it a lively and charming centre of activity in the city.
Tourist Attractions of Barcelona
Antonio Gaudi's most famous masterpiece, the Sagrada Família church, is the city's most famous attraction and dates back to the late 1800s. It remains unfinished today, and its beauty and charm brings visitors from around the world. There are several other examples by this unconventional and visionary architect dotted about the city and they are instantly recognisable for their bizarre form.
Barcelona offers a wide selection of parks. The largest park is Montjuic on a 173 metre high hill of the same name. The 17th century fortress here allows scenic views of the harbour. Perhaps the most famous park however is the UNESCO World Heritage-protected Park Guell containing a sculpture park designed by Gaudi.
The soft golden sand and the crystal clear Mediterranean waters bordering the city offer a chance to relax and soak in the sun. The most popular and oldest beaches in Barcelona are the beaches at Barceloneta and Sant Sebastià. They offer many choices of restaurants and nightly entertainment.
Transportation Around Barcelona
Barcelona International Airport is less than two miles from Barcelona and receives flights from all over the word. Transportation is readily accessible at the airport and car rentals are available. There are also plenty of high-speed rail links to Madrid, the South and French border.
It is advisable to get travel insurance before arriving at Barcelona the city is notorious for pickpockets. In case of accident or illness, travel insurance can cover pricey hospital bills. Have the satisfaction of knowing you are covered in case of an emergency.
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