Enjoy the sunshine in one of Europe’s premier holiday destinations that offers a little of something for everyone.
Many of Barcelona, Spain’s, attractions are found in the Cuitat Vella, or old city. The Barri Gotic, or Gothic Quarter neighborhood, is the oldest section of the old city and has several austere buildings and specialty shops.
Highlights of the neighborhood include the Cathedral Santa Creu with its two simple towers and central front-sitting spire, and the Barcelona City Museum, with an underground exhibit that showcases remains of early Barcelona.
The Picasso Museum, housed in five medieval mansions in the La Ribera district, is home to a collection of Pablo Picasso’s work, including some paintings completed when he was 9 years old. Another area within the old city is the El Ravel neighborhood with many urban projects including the Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona, which houses collections of works from the second half of the 20th century.
Outside the old city is the L’Eixample district, Barcelona’s new town. There, visitors can visit La Pedrera, a spectacular residence by architect Antoni Gaudi. The top floor holds the Gaudi museum, dedicated to his work, and a roof terrace, perfect for a rest and a drink. For more of Gaudi’s work, see the unfinished Church of the Holy Family with its grand towers and lavish adornment.
Two museums within L’Eixample worth visiting are the Tapies Foundation, which houses collections of art and modern literature, and the Music Museum of Barcelona, home to a large collection of guitars.
The Harborfront district has miles of beach on the Mediterranean Sea. The Maritime Museum, according to www.barcelona.com, is one of the most visited and creative museums in the city. The collection includes model ships, drawings, replicas, paintings and the interactive exhibition "The Great Adventure of the Sea."
The seaside is also home to the Gothic Santa Maria del Mar church, which is adorned with 15th- and 18th-century stained glass windows.
Not to be missed is a ride on the Tramvia Blau, or blue tram funicular, up Tibadabo Mountain for picturesque views of the city and port.
