Brave, bold, beautiful Barcelona

By Adele Merson

February 22 2016, 12:30 pm

Looking for an exciting Spring break? A trip to the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region is a must this year.

The bustling city of Barcelona is just a banquet for the senses.

It is packed with vibrant street life and quirky architecture and arguably one of the most cultural destinations in Europe.

A great starting point for your adventures in this stunning city should be the colourful pedestrianised thoroughfare known as La Rambla.

This famous landmark is a lively boulevard that runs through the heart of the city and offers street entertainers, cafes, shops and bars all surrounded by decorative architecture.

Leading off to the right hand side of La Rambla is the historic Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic), which is the old town of Barcelona.

The famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso lived and worked in this beautiful neighbourhood and its narrow, winding streets are something of a labyrinth.

However, once you get your bearings, it has some pretty, tranquil spots where you can stop, refuel and enjoy the surroundings.

This area really comes to life in the evenings and the nightlife is rather lively.

A focal point of interest in the Gothic Quarter is the stunning Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia (not to be confused with Sagrada Familia Basilica) and is the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona.

This magnificent construction is worth a visit if you happen to be in that neighbourhood.

Another famous cathedral that should be on your ‘to do’ list in Barcelona is the Sagrada Familia.

This is one of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous works and it’s still not finished.

It’s been under construction since 1882!

The influence of Gaudi is evident in the city’s architecture and you will spot many stunning examples of his work around the city; interesting shaped stonework, original design and the use of vibrant colour is quite a sight.

If you have a football fan in your party then a visit to the magnificent Nou Camp Stadium must surely be on the cards.

Home to Barcelona FC, the ground has a capacity for almost 100,000 visitors and is a top attraction for football fans around the world, regardless of which team they support!

The tour of the stadium and museum provide an insight into the club’s history and successful achievements both at club level and in the Champions League.

The Nou Camp even has it’s own little chapel which was blessed by Pope John Paul II in 1982…perhaps the players nip in for a last minute prayer before kick off!

If you find yourself in need of some retail therapy then you’ve got plenty of options for splashing the cash.

Barcelona is packed with superb shops.

You’ll find Zara, Mango and the likes for everyday high street fashion but a real oasis in the city is El Corte Ingles – a large department store where you can buy cosmetics, clothes, shoes, perfume, household goods and just about everything in between.

There are also many local arts and crafts shops where you can pick up nice souvenirs and knick-knacks for your home to remind you of your time in Barcelona.

It would be a shame to simply sit and watch the world go by in such a fascinating city that offers so many great things to see and do.

However, if relaxation and sunbathing are more your cup of tea then worry not; there’s even beaches!

Barceloneta Beach is the closest to the city’s main attractions and here you can soak up the sizzling Spanish sunshine, although it can get pretty busy in the summer months.