Advice

Just a quick break to introduce you to a few more points of interest that couldn’t be included in our two itineraries. One of Barcelona’s must-see sites is Montjuïc Park, famous for its breathtaking panoramic views over the city. This hill underwent a complete transformation before the 1929 World’s Fair. Palaces, botanical gardens, pavilions, stadiums… you name it! Most of the installations were temporary, as is often the case with such events, but some buildings remained and they now host various museums. Here you’ll find the Palau Nacional, home to the National Art Museum of Catalonia, the Montjuïc Castle—built in 1640 to keep watch over the city—the Joan Miró Foundation, and of course, the famous Magic Fountain, with its free hour-long sound and light show! The fountain is about a 10 minute walk from Plaça d’Espanya, if you follow the Reina Maria Cristina avenue. There’s a cable car service connecting the port to Montjuïc hill. At the top, you can take in the stunning views. On Plaça d’Espanya, you’ll also see the city’s former bullring, now transformed into a six-floor shopping centre. This is worth a visit not only for the big-name shops, but also for its temporary exhibitions, bars, flamenco shows, rooftop terraces, and their 360° views. Mount Tibidabo is another iconic site near Barcelona, known for its vintage theme park overlooking the city and the magnificent neo-Gothic Sacred Heart Church. You can get there by taking the blue tram and funicular. One of the best ways to enjoy Barcelona is by the sea. Feel free to wander around the port and beach in Barceloneta, an Italian-style neighbourhood known for its bars and lively vibe. You can also head to the Poblenou district, which was fully revamped for the 1992 Olympics and is generally less crowded. It’s a great dining spot, with a more local atmosphere. In case you’re after wild beaches, seaside resorts around Barcelona are also very easy to reach,. If you’re visiting for a weekend, then it’ll probably be packed. But if you’ve got a bit more time to explore the surroundings, you can visit in peace! One visit you really shouldn’t miss is the Montserrat Abbey, in the national park of the same name, just 50 km from Barcelona. This mysterious mountain is popular with hikers and home to a spiritual Benedictine abbey. You can enter the basilica for free and admire the famous Black Madonna, said to have healing powers. The boys’ choir is also renowned and performs twice daily. There’s also an art museum with works by Dali, Picasso, Miró, Chagall, and Monet. Perched in the mountains, the monastery is a great starting point for outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing. For a stunning view over the valley and monastery, head towards the cross of Sant Miquel. And if you’re up for a hike, take the funicular to the start of the Sant Jeroni trail, leading to the highest peak of Montserrat. The Delta del Llobregat is perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers. A protected wetland area with extraordinary biodiversity, it spans 145 hectares of beaches, lagoons, marshes, meadows and pine forests. The area is full of observation points and educational panels. More than 360 species of birds stop here during their yearly migration. The delta is listed as a globally important site in scientific records and a special protection area for birds. Wine lovers, we haven’t forgotten about you! Just 15 km from Barcelona lies the small town of Alella. Its sunny hills have been covered in vineyards since Roman times. Known for its winemaking and harvest festival, it’s the perfect spot for a wine trail full of art and culture. A little further out is Tarragona. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a one-hour train ride away. If you visit, you’re in for a journey through time. You’ll see stunning Roman ruins with sea views, charming medieval alleys, impressive religious buildings and beautiful beaches. All this in a modern city filled with shops and restaurants. Now you have plenty to do and see, if you decide to stay here for longer!