There are many culturally diverse cities in Europe that are easily accessible with budget airlines, particularly Barcelona.
Often hailed as one of the best cities in the world, Barcelona is a fashionable location to come into contact with the old and new alongside each other and where all your senses will work overtime.
It is easy enough to see why Barcelona is so popular with its unceasing variety of attractions and sights tempting tourists from all walks of life. Stretching from La Ramblas covering the old port of Barcelona and the Plaza Catalunya, an entire day can be dedicated to walking around the Barri Gothic Quarter without venturing any further as there plenty to see and do. Wander around the labyrinths of the narrow streets that meander between old buildings which open out into quaint squares, and then have a break in one of the alfresco cafes full of bustling tapas bars in the vicinity. Find out something about the chronicle of the city and its Roman roots, or visit the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia that is constructed throughout the 13 and 14 century.
Initially planned by Catalan publisher Joseph Bocabella, who wanted to achieve Catholic Church triumphs via the guard of St. Joseph, this monumental assignment eventually came in the hands of Gaudi when he was just thirty-one years old. Barcelona is truly blessed with his wonderful designs, he could be indeed, and the main reason the city attracts so many sightseers. This famous work by Gaudi will be the most incredible church you will ever see.
Barcelona is still the birthplace for many progressive architects such as the award-winning Ricardo Bofill, the man behind the iconic W Barcelona, shaped like a gigantic boat sail. Born in Barcelona in 1939, Bofill is celebrated for his architectural structures that blend with different cultures. It will also be difficult to miss the perfect geometric block of ME Barcelona Hotel, a glass building designed by French architect Dominique Perrault. Barcelona is widely celebrated for its innovative planning and accessible open spaces; hence there are plenty of places to stroll such as the beaches and gardens. Two of the best are, that goes without saying, Guell Park, another Park de la Ciudadella, a park in Ciutat Vella famous for its museums and boating lake.
In the city centre, there are several places that you can take a walk and admire the sceneries, or enjoy fresh coffee in Las Ramblas while watching pedestrians, musicians and performers. Bars in Barcelona start to fill up from 2am onwards. There are plenty of late licensed bars that may stay open as late, or as early as 10am. These bars are not dance clubs but you can either wind down or party some more, depending on your state of mind at that time. There are plenty of live music jam sessions, jazz, blues, burlesque and clubs to choose from particularly in the Las Ramblas boulevard but do not expect crowds until 2 or 3am.
In the city centre, there are several places that you can take a walk and admire the sceneries, or enjoy fresh coffee in Las Ramblas while watching pedestrians, musicians and performers. Bars in Barcelona start to fill up from 2am onwards. There are plenty of late licensed bars that may stay open as late, or as early as 10am. These bars are not dance clubs but you can either wind down or party some more, depending on your state of mind at that time. There are plenty of live music jam sessions, jazz, blues, burlesque and clubs to choose from particularly in the Las Ramblas boulevard but do not expect crowds until 2 or 3am.
Maremagnum will be the ideal location for families as it is a huge waterfront mall with plenty of walkways and bars before the dark hour starts. As the families depart and the party animals arrive you will find everything here from stylish bars to Irish pubs, it is quite easy to party here till morning as some of the clubs stay open until 6am.
Obviously, holiday time depends heavily on either work schedule or budget. Many hotels and airlines give discounts on Friday to Sunday reservations and this gives you plenty of time to enjoy the attractions, shop and have a good night out.
If you want a simple way to travel, then think about staying in holiday apartments since Barcelona has a large number of apartments for any requirements. An apartment in any city can help save money and give you a more unique experience of living in a different culture. The internet is the best source for landing yourself the appropriate rental apartment.
Author: Mathieu Quintart