Barcelona Guide

Tags: barcelona, tourist, guide, spain, La Vinya del senor, Casa Dario, tourism

While Spain may conjur up visions of flamenco, bull-fighting and lazy days on the beach, Barcelona is different. Fiercely proud of its unique culture, language, art, history and way of life, the capital city of the richly diverse north-east region of Catalonia stoicly opposes those stereotypical images that categorise our ideas of Spain.

It`s probably the most vibrant city in the whole of Europe. Progressive, hard-working and stylish, it`s a sprawling metropolis dotted with some very special surprises. The unique style of Gaudi architecture lifts the urban landscape in works of art such as the Sagrada Familia, its quirky spires stretching like knobbly wax candles into the sky. Parc Guell, where Gaudi once lived, is probably the most unique park in the world, dotted with his amazing sculptures and mosaic artwork. You can even take a Gaudi tour to appreciate the importance of his artistic contribution to the city`s landscape.

Join the locals in a dance in the market place

When it comes to shopping, Barcelona reigns supreme. Chic arcades and stylish outlets line wide leafy avenues such as Passeig de Gracia selling the ultimate in European fashion, jewellery and designer homeware. The more authentic shops that seem to hide in nooks and crannies amongst the charming streets of the Gothic Quarter are also a magnet for the shopaholic. This enchanting area of the city lies to the east of the famous Ramblas, the pedestrianised avenue leading down to Barcelona`s port. All of life is here, with some interesting takes on street theatre, woven in with the hustle and bustle of market stalls, street vendors and lively cafes. It`s certainly the place to see and be seen for an evening stroll, and you are sure to meet some interesting characters along the way.

You won`t have to travel far to experience Barcelona`s gastronomical offerings, with a whole spectrum of eateries at your beck and call. For the best tapas, visit La Vinya del Senor in the Gothic quarter. If you`re hard-pressed to find a Vegetarian restaurant in this predominantly carnivorous town, head for La Flauta Magica for the best in fresh, organic ingredients. You may at some stage wish to drop in at Can Paixano for a hearty sandwich and a cool glass of cava, but when it`s time to splash out, treat your credit card at Casa Dario, for the best seafood in the city. And what better way to end the evening than at one of Barcelona`s top nightlife hotspots, with dancing at La Paloma, smooth jazz vibrations at Luz de Gas or a few drinks at Mirablau, which tops Barcelona`s landmark hill, `el Tibidabo`, and offers the best views over the whole city.

Barcelona is one of Europe`s top destinations for a short break, and accommodation right across the city ranges from basic bed and breakfast lodgings to luxury boutique hotels. With Birmingham to Barcelona flights now available with a number of airlines including budget carrier BMI Baby, this fabulous city is now more accessible than ever.

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