Barcelona ultimate city guide
22nd Jan 2019 Travel
Like your cultural city breaks with a hint of sea and sand? Barcelona will tick all of your boxes. With a 24-hour culture of Catalan cooking, music-making and leisurely strolls around delightful architecture, you can expect a sociable city that welcomes all who visit…
Where to stay in Barcelona
Hotel Pullman Barcelona Skipper puts you right in the middle of the action, conveniently situated between beach and city. With rooms starting at a generous 30 square metres, there is plenty of space to relax and take stock before heading out to the onsite fit lounge (open 24 hours) or spa, with steam bath, ice fountain and aromatherapy shower.
To truly appreciate the Pullman Barcelona is to sit upon its elegant rooftop. Take a dip in the pool, enjoy a tasty cocktail or simply admire the views right across the Olimpic Port.
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Eating in Barcelona
With a beachfront view and ‘all you can drink’ wine alongside dinner, Kaiku is a taste of classic Barcelona (above). Offering excellent value for money, just under £10 will buy you a set menu of starter, main, dessert, bread and a drink, or choose your own combination from their vast Tapas selection. Those new to the city should definitely try their signature paella, rich with fish, squid, mussels and scallops.
For something on the go, Café Menssana incorporate an abundance of world flavours into their teas, cakes and brunch plates. Try one of their fresh juices with a pastry or explore their vegan menu with dishes such as spiced pakoras, falafels and quesadillas.
Shopping in Barcelona
One of the most identifiable landmarks in the city, La Rambla (above) is the central boulevard that cuts right through the heart of the city centre. Approximately 0.7 miles long, you’ll find shops, theatres, museums, metro stops, street performers and best of all, La Bouqueria, the largest food market in Europe.
If you’re looking to avoid the typical tourist areas, the Born Neighbourhood is a historical district with a keen focus on independent fashion design and artisan shopping. Local boutiques Coquette and La Commercial Hombre are must-stops for stylish women looking to shake up their wardrobe, as are Ivori, Loisaida Bcn and Alexis Fasoli.
Learn more about the city
Barcelona loves its art, and its no surprise to see that it’s dedication to its most famous son, the Picasso Museum, is quite the triumph. Book onto a guided tour to get the most of the exhibits, exploring the length and breadth of the painter’s life.
If you prefer your art in audible form, the Palau De La Musica Catalane will cater for any musical desire. It’s the only concert venue in the world to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and upon visitation, it’s easy to see why. Snap up a ticket to the opera, or purchase a season ticket to receive a true musical education.
Football fans may argue that the real cultural gem of the city is Camp Nou. The home of many historic wins, a ground tour and museum will renew your love of the beautiful game.
Get outdoors
Citadel Park is the perfect place to appreciate art in the outdoors, home to the stunning park fountain as designed by Josep Fontsere and a young Antoni Guadi. The 70-acre grounds also contain the city zoo and museum of natural science—hire a bike if you are to explore it all in one go.
Gentle thrillseekers will enjoy the Tibidabo amusement park, situated on the Tibidabo mountain top with incredible views. Hop on the tram to reach the top, stopping off at a charming local café. If you have the time, linger until sunset—the picture-perfect colours over Cathedral de Sagrat Cor make for the ultimate holiday postcard.