With exuberant architecture on display in the streets and remarkable art on display in the galleries, not to mention over fifty museums, there is no questioning that Catalan capital Barcelona deserves its status as Spain's cultural core.
Divided into several districts, the geography of the city is such that strolling through Roman ruins, the medieval quarters and modern city are all in a day's sightseeing in Barcelona.
Tour Barcelona
As hearts of cities go, it's hard not to miss Las Ramblas, Barcelona's beating pulse that throbs with people from the city centre to the harbour, long after the sun goes down. Bright street performers and stalls adorn the treelined road, joined by florists, street sellers with exotic offerings and numerous cafes and restaurants. Walk down Las Ramblas and you'll encounter El Liceu, Barcelona's world-renowned opera house, or meet with Christopher Columbus, whose statue points out to sea at its end.
- Visit La Boqueria market, also on Las Ramblas, where the coloursplashed display of fresh produce is an art form in itself.
- Spend time appreciating architect Antoni Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece the Sagrada Familia set for completion in 2020, 138 years after construction began!
- From the Old Harbour, take the cable car to visit the Olympic stadium along with other amenities that featured in the 1992 games.
- Even if you're not into football take a trip FC Barcelona's Nou Camp where the views from the hills are stunning.
- Catch the city's musical fountain displays at Placa Espanya.
For some time out from Las Ramblas and panoramic views of the city, tour to the fantastical yet calming Park Guell, another mark of Gaudi in Barcelona.