Barcelona's history dates back to Roman times but the city boasts a plethora of tourist sights from all eras, including the splendid Sagrada Familia basilica. Museum collections based on everything from Romanesque art to erotica ensure there is something for everyone. Around 10 percent of the city is given over to public parks and these green spots make for idyllic places to relax on hot summer days. Barcelona has three miles of golden beaches lapped by the balmy waters of the Mediterranean. The city's nightlife is exciting and, in some bars and clubs, continues until dawn.
Key attractions
La Barceloneta is just a few minutes' walk from the Ciutat Vella old city quarter and is the jewel in the crown of the city's seven beaches. Between the beach and the old city, the city's medieval shipyard now houses the vessels and exhibits of the Naval Museum. La Rambla runs through Ciutat Vella. The Picasso Museum contains 3,500 artworks by the legendary master after which it is named. A funicular railway transports passengers to the top of Montjuic Hill where magnificent views and the National Art Museum in the grandiose Palau Nacional await.
Having fun
Barcelona features a diverse choice of venues for a night out. Options range from taking in a heritage flamenco show at Poble Espanol on Montjuic Hill to dancing until dawn at a swanky nightclub. The bulk of the clubs that open late are located in Ciutat Vella. There are additional options in the Maremagnum complex next to the port. This mall also has a good choice of eateries which open even on Sunday. Barcelona has a vibrant pub scene with a number of themed ethnic bars as well as traditional ones. The narrow streets of La Ribera, close to the zoo, hide an assortment of chic pubs and cafes.
Shopping
A stroll along La Rambla is an essential activity for tourists. This tree-lined pedestrian street is lined with all manner of shops and stalls where archetypal souvenirs, Catalan produce and travelers' necessities are sold. The entrance to La Boqueria Market is on La Rambla. Stalls at this renowned market sell fresh fruit and seafood, and pre-cooked delicacies. People wishing to buy art or specialty items will find La Ribera a good bet. Maremagnum is modern, a fact which is reflected by its stores that sell trendy clothing and accessories, as well as personal grooming products and perfumes.
Nearby
The fantastic Antoni Gaudi-designed Park Guell is north of the center and takes around 30 minutes to reach by bus or subway. Gaudi's signature buildings and structures, together with a museum and a large wildlife population, are the main draws. Port Aventura Theme Park in Salou is 70 miles east along the coast. The old town of Sitges and its golden and beaches are around halfway to Salou. Hiking trails and St Maria Benedictine Monastery in the Montserrat Mountains are a 40-mile drive inland.
Our recommendations in Barcelona
Axel Hotel Barcelona & Urban Spa - Adults Only
Located in Barcelona's Eixample neighborhood, Axel Hotel Barcelona & Urban Spa - Adults Only is in the entertainment district. Casa Batllo and Placa de Catalunya are notable landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Port Vell and Port Olimpic. Barcelona Zoo and Barcelona Aquarium are not to be missed. Our guests appreciate the hotel's central location.
Hotel Barcelona Universal
Located in Barcelona's Ciutat Vella neighborhood, Hotel Barcelona Universal is in the city center and near the beach. Barcelona Cathedral and Placa de Catalunya are notable landmarks, and some of the area's popular attractions include Barcelona Aquarium and Barcelona Zoo. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Camp Nou, or consider Parc del Forum for a night out. Our guests love the hotel's central location.
Hotel SERHS Rivoli Rambla
Located in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter neighborhood, Hotel SERHS Rivoli Rambla is in the city center and near the beach. Palau de la Musica Catalana and Picasso Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Port Vell and Port Olimpic. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Olympic Stadium, or consider Parc del Forum for a night out. Our guests love the hotel's convenience to public transportation: Placa Catalunya Station is 3 minutes by foot and Liceu Station is 5 minutes.
Sallés Hotel Pere IV
Located in Barcelona's Sant Marti neighborhood, Sallés Hotel Pere IV is near a metro station and near the beach. Picasso Museum and Palau de la Musica Catalana are cultural highlights, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit La Rambla and Boqueria Market. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Camp Nou or Olympic Stadium.
Hotel Barcelona Princess
Located in Barcelona's Diagonal Mar i el Front Maritim del Poblenou neighborhood, Hotel Barcelona Princess is in the business district and near the beach. Parc del Forum and Port Olimpic are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Barcelona Zoo and Barcelona Aquarium. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Camp Nou or Palau Sant Jordi. Our guests love the hotel's convenience to public transportation: El Maresme-Forum Station is 4 minutes by foot and Besos Mar Station is 7 minutes.
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Eric Vökel Boutique Apartments Gran Vía Suites
Located in Barcelona's Eixample neighborhood, Eric Vökel Boutique Apartments Gran Vía Suites is in the city center and near a metro station. Placa d'Espanya and Placa de Catalunya are notable landmarks, and some of the area's popular attractions include Barcelona Aquarium and Barcelona Zoo. Consider Parc del Forum for a night out, and don't miss Tibidabo Amusement Park, a top local attraction. Our guests love the property's location for the sightseeing.
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Aparthotel Atenea
Connected to the convention center, Aparthotel Atenea is in Barcelona's Les Corts neighborhood, an area with great airport proximity. Port Vell and Port Olimpic are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit La Rambla and Boqueria Market. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Camp Nou, or consider Parc del Forum for a night out. Our guests love the property's location for the nightlife and sightseeing.
Olivia Plaza Hotel
Located in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter neighborhood, Olivia Plaza Hotel is in the city center and near the beach. Port Vell and Port Olimpic are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Barceloneta Beach and Montjuic. Barcelona Zoo and Barcelona Aquarium are not to be missed.