But if you have to choose just one European city to visit, Barcelona should be high on your list of places to go.
Barcelona is a unique city in many different ways. Even though it is part of Spain, the vibes on the streets that you will discover, won’t be anything like the ones inside the rest of the country.
Here are a few reasons that should entice you to choose Barcelona for your next European city break destination.
1. So Much to Do
Barcelona is a large city and there are so many things to do here and places to see.
Places we recommend seeing include Las Ramblas, Parc Guel and riding the big wheel. In the center of the town where most accommodation is located, you can walk and discover various tourist attractions or head for a walk to the harbour.
You could check out the The Magic Fountain, a water, music and light which was originally built in 1929 providing a spectacular show every half hour.
2. Beaches
Barcelona is located on the coast and the beach located downtown might not be the most beautiful in the world, but it is always busy and has a great atmosphere.
There are also some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain located within a short drive from Barcelona which are really unique and scenic, some of the best include:
- Playa de La Barceloneta
- Bogatell Beach
- Nova Mar Bella Beach
- Playa de la Mar Bella
- Platja de la Nova Icaria
- Plaja de Sant Sebastian
- Praia de Somorrostro
- Playa de Sant Miquel
3. Architecture
Wandering the streets of Barcelona is a special experience due to the amount of unique buildings and monuments to see. This really is one of the best cities in the world for architecture.
4. Weather
Barcelona enjoys a warm climate all year round, even in winter temperatures don't get nowhere near as cold as some cities in mainland Europe. During summer you are almost guaranteed sun.
5. An International City
When you arrive at the airport and you head out, you will wander for a second if you haven’t landed in the city of cinema, located on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean.
There is a definite sensation that is similar to the great city of L.A., in Barcelona. If you have visited it before, you will immediately feel the similarity.
Of course, Barcelona is European and so there is that little plus, brought by history. But Spaniards are big fans of American culture, and you can feel some of it in the air.
7. Football
Barcelona is home to FC Barcelona, one of the most successful and famous teams in the world. Watching a game at impressive 90,000 capacity Nou Camp is highly recommended.
7. City Sightseeing Tours
If you want to discover the highlights of Barcelona there are lots of sightseeing tours, a lot of which are totally free.
One of the best ways to get around is on a city sightseeing bus tour which stops at all the main tourist hotspots.
There are lots of free walking tours available to join where you can learn more about the history of the places you visit and see famous local attractions like the La Sagra Familia and Gaudi structures.
8. Food
You will eat in some of the best restaurants in the world in Barcelona. In most international restaurants ranking lists, you are bound to find at least two Barcelona restaurants in its top 10.
That is because they offer the same natural quality of food the rest of Spain does, but with a touch of sophistication that you won’t easily find elsewhere. Don't worry if you are on a budget, there are also lots of tasty street food at bargain prices.
A visit the the Mercat de la Boqueria, a popular local food market next to Las Ramblas is recommended.
There are also lots of highly rated vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Barcelona.
9. Nightlife
Barcelona has hundreds of bars and nightclubs and is famous for its lively night scene. Most clubs don't open till late and stay open till the early hours.
Some of the might highly rated clubs to check out include Sala Toro, Sala VOL, Candy Darling, Laut, El Pumarejo, Freedonia, Marula Café and Jamboree.
10. The Costa Dorada is Spectacular
Barcelona’s location is spectacular on the famous Costa Dorada coast.
You could book a tour, travel by public transport or rent a car (which are really cheap) and travel along the beautiful coast, towards the west side of the country to enjoy some of the most. beautiful beaches in the country.
The Costa Dorada has choice of accommodation, it is generally a lot cheaper than staying in central Barcelona and it is also a great location to find resorts and camping sites, which is definitely the best way to accommodate yourself in the region if you like the great outdoors.
On the other side of Barcelona, if you travel north east, you can explore the region close to France, for a different experience.
The beautiful Spanish islands like Ibiza are also located not far away.
Plan a City Break to Barcelona
Barcelona is one of the must-see cities in Europe and most travellers fall in love with the city. View our tips for staying safe in Barcelona if it is your first time visiting the city. Do you have any recommendations to share? Let us know in the comments section below.
