Barcelona
Quick Facts
Language: SpanishCurrency: Euro
Area Codes: 93
Other Cities in this Region
Barcelona has always been a prosperous city, thanks to an exquisite harbor, fertile soil, and a population of hard working, caring citizens. This great city was a strong, incredibly diverse region when Madrid was still a fledgling town with basically no landmarks or significance. The numerous Mediterranean empires that had at one time or another conquered the area brought tremendous influences, much more so than the Iberian presence to the west. Barcelona was most influenced by Rome, Carthage, and France during the Charlemagne era.
The monuments of Barcelona open a book into the rich history of the area. These include the intricate and beautiful Gothic Quarter from the medieval times, the series of Catalan art nouveau, and the surreal artwork of Picasso and Miro. But if you are searching for a little excitement and outdoor fun to mix in with your education and culture, look no further than Barcelona.
In 1992, Barcelona was given a huge boost by serving as home to the Summer Olympic Games. This race to the 21st century was quite beneficial to Barcelona and the neighboring areas, and the restructuring program that became everyone's focus was given the name Post Olympic. As a result of all of this hard work and dedication, Barcelona has recently developed into one of the premier port cities in all of Europe. There are so many fascinating sights and wonderful events; you will be awed by your choices and so much to do. Extraordinary museums and landmarks can be found everywhere in this ancient city with a rich heritage and culture. The Museu Picasso is one of the greatest art exhibits anywhere, and through the center of the old quarter of Barcelona is the gorgeous tree-lined promenade, a visual splendor. The nightlife is truly something, and the shopping is fantastic.
Docking & Local Transportation
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Barcelona (93/306-88-00) located at Puerta de la Paz 6. Buses and taxis are available at the port to take you to your destination in the city.
Barcelona's public transportation system consists of buses and subways. The buses are cheap, but are often extremely crowded. The subway consists of five lines that branch out from the Placa de Catalunya. Taxis, known as servicio publicos, roam the city day and night, and if you have trouble hailing one from the street, call for a pick up (93/330-08-04). If you'd like to rent a car while in Barcelona, contact Budget (93/298-36-00), but keep in mind that finding parking in the city is a nightmare, so it is best to either take public transportation or taxis.
Local Interests
The Church of Santa Maria del Mar is one of Barcelona's best examples of the Catalan Gothic style. Located north of the harbor, this church is a highlight of any trip to the region. Antoni Gaudi was one of the most famous architects in Barcelona's history, and when you gaze upon a piece of his work, you can instantly recognize that he was the mastermind behind it. Late in the 1850s, an architectural competition took place in Barcelona, and Antoni Rovira won this contest. After accepting his award, he produced a revolutionary plan for what he wanted done to the city architecturally and artistically. He wanted the city to be centralized, with all of the people of Barcelona occupying apartments around the parks. His dream was never fully realized, but his efforts, along with those of Antoni Gaudi, have left an indelible impression on Barcelona. Recently, after decades of stagnation, new and artistically creative buildings are being constructed.
The Bari Gotic, or Gothic Quarter, is an entire neighborhood in Barcelona that is not to be missed. This ancient aristocratic quarter has somehow survived since the Middle Ages, and it remains an energized and refreshing portion of the city. The people here are friendly and have a strong sense of camaraderie and great respect for their surroundings. Exploring this region for a few hours is great fun and gives you a glimpse of the life back in the Middle Ages. While the Gothic Quarter today is a bustling, modern-day community, you can't help but feel that you have been transported in a time machine back to the days of swordfights and armor when you visit.
The Museu Picasso, located at Montcada 15-23 (93/319-63-10), is home to the fantastic works of Barcelona native Pablo Picasso. In 1970, he donated approximately 2,500 pieces of art to the museum. Among the incredible collection are engravings, paintings, and drawings of grand proportion. Science and Charity, Las Meninas, and La Vie are some of his most amazing paintings, and they are certainly not to be overlooked.
Activities
Dining
Agut d'Avignon is located at Trinitat 3 (93/302-60-34) and features distinctly Catalan cuisine. Every meal is prepared flawlessly, and they are as aesthetically pleasing as they are palatable. The duck with figs, fabulous jumbo shrimp, and fillet beefsteak are three favorites from this wonderful restaurant. Quo Vadis can be found at Carme 7 (93/302-40-72) and resides in a building that is over one hundred years old. This is the place to enjoy the very best Spanish food in Spain. Opened in 1967, Quo Vadis has an incredible array of scrumptious beef and fish dishes. After your tremendous meal, be certain to try one of the desserts, as they are laced with seasonal fruits that have been shipped fresh from all over the country. Restaurant Hoffman is located at Argenteria 74-78 (93/319-58-89) and thanks to an amazingly creative menu, this restaurant has been rapidly catapulted to one of the most adored dining experiences in Spain. The tasting menu is outrageously popular, and when the weather is nice, you can enjoy your lunch or dinner while relaxing outside in one of the three courtyards. A simply marvelous culinary experience all around, Restaurant Hoffman comes highly recommended.
Outdoor Sports
The professional golfers who visit Barcelona regularly play at Club de Golf Vallromanes, which is located on Afueras (93/572-90-64). This course was established in 1972, and is a fantastic place for both beginners and experts. All you need is an advance tee time and you, too, can play.
A wonderful location that lets you swim where the Olympians stroked back in 1992 is the Piscina Bernardo Picornell, located at Avinguda de Estadi 30 (93/423-40-41). It is directly adjacent to the Olympic Stadium, and the second you jump in the pool you will feel an enormous rush of energy and excitement. In addition to full use of the magnificent pool, custom-built for the Olympics, you can also enjoy the sauna, whirlpools, and gymnasium.
Shopping
The Mercat de la Boqueria is located at La Rambla 89 (93/318-25-84) and features a great selection of straw bags and hats, vegetables, fruits, and an assortment of random accessories and items. El Bulevard des Antiquaris is located at Passeig de Gracia 55, and although it does not have a phone, it has about everything else imaginable! This incredible 70-unit complex offers customers a tremendous selection of art, jewelry, antiques, and pottery. The furniture is outstanding, as are the handicrafts.
Nightlife
One of the best nightclubs around is Otto Zutz, which is located at Lincoln 15 (93/238-07-22). The fun begins after midnight, and the later it gets, the livelier the action! Universal is an incredibly popular bar and can be found at Marià Cubí 182-184 (93/201-35-96).