5 Reasons To Visit Barcelona

One of Spain’s greatest cities, Barcelona is a fantastic holiday destination, which attracts millions of people every year. Located on the Mediterranean coast, the metropolis offers both a city and beach destination all wrapped into one, providing you the ideal retreat if you want sun and sand in addition to plenty of cultural delights. Whilst the city itself has more than enough to offer, if you’re utilising hire cars then you’ll also be able to explore the surrounding mountainous scenery in addition to heading along the coast in search of private coves and secluded beaches. And if you’re considering Barcelona as a holiday destination, here are five great reasons why this city should be at the top of your list.

1. Shopping

Most people like to indulge in a little shopping whilst they’re away, and whether you want to do a lot of retail therapy or just pick out some souvenirs and gifts for friends, Barcelona has plenty on offer. A great city destination is Barcelona’s Port Vell shopping centre which houses a variety of shops from iconic and global brands to smaller Spanish treats. The area was once Barcelona’s great port and you’ll also find the city aquarium here, allowing you to combine and shopping and sea life trip. Meanwhile, Las Ramblas has a huge number of shops and cafes to explore in the city’s old town district.

2. Old Barcelona

Whilst Barcelona is a modern city thronging with tourists, bars and modern highlights, its old quarter is a cultural gem. Located in the Gothic Quarter you’ll find medieval architecture, whilst in Las Ramblas you’ll find great cafes and shops set amongst gothic buildings. Old Barcelona is also home to the city zoo and the Picasso Museum making this a great place to explore.

3. Nightlife

Nightlife in Barcelona is incredibly vibrant and you’ll find that tourists and locals alike enjoy the twilight hours whether it’s dancing at all night venues or simply drinking wine outside restaurants and cafes. Nights start late and it’s not uncommon to be only heading out for dinner at 10pm. Gracia houses the most trendy and in-vogue restaurants, bars and clubs but you’ll find thriving nightlife throughout Barcelona’s streets.

4. Architecture & Culture

If you love exploring a city’s culture and architecture you’ll find that Barcelona won’t let you down. Whilst the Old Town area has many medieval and gothic buildings, Eixample is thronging with Art Nouveua architecture, some of which were designed by Antoni Gaudi, and the famed Sagrada Familia buildings. Museums are also full of delights, and if you love art a top spot is the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya & Fundacio Joan Miro.

5. Beach Life

Located on the coast, whilst the city has a lot to explore, there’s also the lure of the beach. Barceloneta is a region, which has some of the city’s best beaches, and you’ll find a fantastic range of restaurants here too. And with gorgeous views, fresh seafood, and golden sandy shores, you’ll be able to enjoy a beach retreat whilst on a city break.