Barcelona

Vibrant Capital of Catalonia

Published: 07 July 2023, 11:30

Vibrant Capital of Catalonia

A trip to Barcelona is always worthwhile! The Catalan metropolis offers pleasant temperatures and lots of sunshine all year round. It also draws in travellers thanks to its magnificent Art Nouveau buildings, picturesque districts and many interesting museums. In addition, numerous beaches in the middle of the city and in the immediate vicinity invite you to sunbathe and swim.

Barcelona is a vibrant city with a unique energy and Mediterranean flair. Life here takes place mainly outdoors, whether in the numerous restaurants and tapas bars, on the beach or in the numerous lively boulevards and squares. Throughout the year there are also events, festivals and traditional outdoor celebrations – including the big city festival Festes de la Mercè, which takes place every September and takes over the whole of Barcelona with concerts, street theatre and parades.

numbers, data, facts

population: 1.6 millionen
official languages: Catalan, Spanish
currency: Euro (EUR)

Ten Highlights of Barcelona

Sagrada Familia © Sergii Figurnyi/AdobeStock

The Sagrada Familia Basilica is a masterpiece by the architect Antoni Gaudí and one of the symbols of Barcelona. © Sergii Figurnyi/AdobeStock

The unique Park Güell, also designed by Gaudí, is a milestone of modernism. The view over Barcelona from here is spectacular. © dbrnjhrj/AdobeStock

The famous promenade Las Ramblas invites you with restaurants, shops, street artists and lively activity © David Soanes/AdobeStock

Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona © Filip/AdobeStock

The sprawling Parc de la Ciutadella is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike. It offers green oases, a lake, monuments and the Parliament of Catalonia. © Filip/AdobeStock

Gaudí again: The shape of the house Casa Batlló is based on the legend of George and the dragon. © saiko3p/AdobeStock

Mount Tibidabo on the outskirts of the city is accessible by cog railway and features an amusement park, the Sagrat Cor church and great views over Barcelona. © boule1301/AdobeStock

Barceloneta city beach © Roman Rodionov/AdobeStock

In Barcelona, city and beach holidays can be perfectly combined: The city beach of Barceloneta is close to the city centre and offers a Mediterranean lifestyle. © Roman Rodionov/AdobeStock

Hospital de Sant Pau © dinozzaver/AdobeStock

The Hospital de Sant Pau is another masterpiece of Catalan Art Nouveau. The former hospital is now a cultural centre and can be visited. © dinozzaver/AdobeStock

Museu Nacional d’Art © Robert Hiltl/AdobeStock

The impressive art museum Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya presents Catalan art from the Romanesque period to the present day. © Robert Hiltl/AdobeStock

The Font Màgica is a spectacular fountain complex that offers colourful water and light shows accompanied by music in the evenings. © Sebastian/AdobeStock

The Many Facets of Barcelona

Like any major metropolis, Barcelona has very different facets, which also shape the districts individually. The best way to experience the versatility is to take a walk through the various districts. The old town is characterised by impressive historic buildings and winding streets, in the pretty district of Gràcia you can immerse yourself in the authentic life of the residents, or you can experience the relaxed atmosphere on the beach promenade in the Barceloneta district. Walking and relaxing is the best way to let the individual charm work its magic on you.

A walk through the beautiful neighbourhoods of Barcelona

The historic centre of Barri Gòtic is characterised by narrow streets, impressive Gothic architecture and picturesque squares. © Luis/AdobeStock

Gracià district in Barcelona © JackF/AdobeStock

Strolling through the pretty district of Gràcia is always worthwhile – especially in August, when the district dresses up especially for the festival of the same name © JackF/AdobeStock

Casa Milà, Eixample © Mistervlad/AdobeStock

In Eixample district, you can stroll through wide boulevards with numerous shops and restaurants, while marvelling the imposing architecture, such as Gaudí's Casa Milà. © Mistervlad/AdobeStock