Sagrada Família
Antoni Gaudí's masterpiece — a basilica under construction for over 140 years and a UNESCO site.
Barcelona
The Catalan capital with Gaudí's architecture and a Mediterranean coastline
Catalonia, Spain1,620,343
About the city
Barcelona is the largest city in Catalonia and one of the most visited capitals in Europe. Medieval Gothic quarters, Antoni Gaudí's modernist masterpieces and a vibrant Mediterranean waterfront sit side by side.
The city is alive year-round: Barceloneta beaches, Gràcia cafes, Montjuïc concerts and the iconic Camp Nou football arena.
It's the main transport hub of the western Mediterranean — onward bus connections to Valencia, Madrid and France are frequent and convenient.
Top places to see
Park Güell
Gaudí's modernist park with mosaic sculptures and panoramic city views.
Gothic Quarter
Barcelona's medieval heart with narrow streets, a cathedral and Roman ruins.
Casa Batlló
Gaudí's modernist house on Passeig de Gràcia — a UNESCO site.
La Rambla
The city's liveliest pedestrian street, running from Plaça de Catalunya to the port.
Barceloneta Beach
The main city beach with 1.5 km of shoreline and marina views.
From our travel blog
3 min
How the Barcelona metro works
Fares, T-casual passes and the best routes to and from the airport.
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The metro runs from 5 am to midnight, with all-night service Friday and until 2 am Saturday. The best ticket for visitors is the T-casual — 10 single rides on one card.
El Prat airport is linked to the centre via L9 Sud (around 30 minutes to Plaça de Catalunya).
4 min
What to eat in Barcelona
Tapas, paella, jamón and sherry — a short culinary guide.
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The classics: pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato and olive oil), patatas bravas and squid a la romana.
Paella is best at port-side restaurants. Catalan crema (crema catalana) is a must-try dessert.
For produce, head to La Boqueria market just off La Rambla — fresh seafood, jamón and fruit smoothies all under one roof.