The most spectacular – and controversial – of Antoni GaudÃ’s modernist masterpieces, the Sagrada FamÃlia has been under construction for over 100 years and is not expected to be completed until about 2026. Rich in religious symbolism intertwined with themes of nature and unusual geometric forms, this is one of the most visually arresting monuments you’ll find in Europe.
Barcelona’s food scene is creative and eclectic, fusing Catalan and Spanish traditions with global and cutting-edge techniques and flavours. Ten years ago, vegetarians would have struggled in Barcelona with most dishes centered around pork and red meat. Today, you will find both Spanish favourites such as Paella and Tapas, along with innovative takes on vegetables, meats and grains, and a host of Michelin-starred restaurants to boot. Special mention in the food category to the hottest new addition to Barcelona’s food scene, El Nacional; Catalan chocolate at Vioko; and Spanish olives served and sold all over the city!
Sometimes described as the Champs-Élysées of Barcelona, the Passeig de Grà cia is the city’s designer-shopping hotspot. Stretching from the Plaça de Catalunya up to the trendy Grà cia neighbourhood, the boulevard is home to some of the most fashionable and well-regarded designer labels in the world, including Chanel, Stella McCartney and Gucci.
Amongst the many attractions that the city has to offer, there are the beautiful beaches. Barcelona is a great to visit any time of year but it takes on whole different persona during the summer season, with waterfront restaurants and never ending parties. Rent a bike and cruise around the boardwalk or lounge at one of the many beach shacks along the main strip.
Your trip to Barcelona is incomplete till you have visited Camp Nou, home of the famous Futbol Club Barcelona, or Barça as it is popularly known.Take a tour of the stadium and museum to relive historic moments from football history. Games run throughout the year and bars and restaurants all over the city are packed with fiery fans. You can even get your name printed on a FCB football jersey at kiosks across the city, or better still from the gift shop in Camp Nou club store. So whether you're a fan of the arts or sports, of urban buzz or seaside bliss, Barcelona is the city for you. Enjoy this colourful destination all through the year, and treat every one of your senses to an unforgettable experience.
