In terms of diversity, Barcelona is one of the best places to visit in Spain, with city breaks to this hotspot offering a special blend of traditional cultural activities and laid-back beachfront paradise.
So here are a few reasons why Barcelona holidays should be on everyone’s must-do list this year:
1. Gaudi
Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi is a big part Barcelona’s heritage, and you’ll feel his presence throughout the city. His magical, fairytale inspired architecture gives the city a unique style of its own; the Catalonian haven wouldn’t be the same without Gaudi’s amazing confectionary-esque designs.
The twisted spires of Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, Barcelona’s breathtaking Roman Catholic church, have become an iconic symbol representing the city and Gaudi’s contribution to its aesthetics.
You can also many fine examples of Gaudi architecture throughout the city, and visit the Casa Museu Gaudi along Barcelona’s avenue Passeig de Gracia. Barcelona’s hop-on, hop-off bus tour travels along this avenue, and is a great way to take in many of Gaudi’s creations if you only have a weekend in the city.
On sunny days, of which Barcelona has many, there’s no better place to experience the Gaudi vibe than Parc Guell. This colourful outdoor space overlooks the city and is peppered with well-known examples of Gaudi’s magnificent work.
2. The Gothic Quarter
Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter adds to the city’s unique fairytale theme. Wander the claustrophobic labyrinthine streets of the Gothic Quarter, taking in a mixture of shops, boutiques, bars and cafés on your way. It’s the perfect place to get lost for a relaxing afternoon.
3. Picasso
The Museu Picasso de Barcelona has one of the most extensive Picasso collections in the world, and is the ideal spot for an afternoon of world-class art and culture.
4. The Parks
As well as Parc Guell, Barcelona boasts the beautiful Parc de la Ciutadella, with its abundance of breathtaking water features.
5. The Beach
You’re never far from the water in Barcelona, and the city’s beachfront vibe can be a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of other parts of the city.
6. Tapas
Tapas in Barcelona is excellent, and you’ll find it in restaurants, cafés and bars citywide. Whether you want to enjoy a full tapas feast for dinner, or a bowl of olives and some manchego cheese with a drink, you’ll find these little dishes of treats available on every street in the city.
7. Sport
Sports fans will be in their element in Barcelona. The Camp Nou is home to FC Barcelona, and if you visit during the football season you can go along to a match and watch the Spanish champions in action. Out of season you can always go for a stadium tour, which is an impressive site in its own right.
8. Shopping
For those who consider shopping a serious sport, Barcelona has it all. Run the gauntlet of quirky shops in the Barri Gothic, splash the cash in designer shops such as Versace, Burberry and Cartier, or shop until you drop in the mammoth department store, El Corte Ingles.
9. Sunshine
Barcelona enjoys a beautifully warm and gentle Mediterranean climate. Even during the winter, temperatures still average above 10 degrees C with little rain to speak of, making Barcelona perfect for a break any time of year.
10. No Stress
An easy two hour flight from the UK; Barcelona city breaks with easyJet Holidays are a no-stress, no-fuss option for your next getaway. Great value fares are available from airports up and down the country, so it really is a destination that is accessible from a financial and logistical point of view.
If you’re looking for a last minute deal that doesn’t break the bank, look no further; Barcelona has so much to offer, which makes it a great value choice for those in need of a change of scenery and a rest.