Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, is defined by quirky art and architecture, imaginative food and vibrant street life. It has medieval roots, seen in the mazelike Gothic Quarter, but a modernist personality represented by architect Antoni Gaudí’s fantastical Sagrada Família church. Its restaurant scene, anchored by the central Boqueria market, ranges from fine dining to tiny tapas bars.

Barcelona is a thrillingly unique city, home to some of the most famous and bizarre architecture in the world, and the playground of exciting modern artists like Joan Miro, Picasso and, of course, Antonio Gaudi. Travel to Barcelona and you will land in sunny Spain's major holiday city, cosmopolitan and lively, with superb shopping, a great climate, beautiful beaches, a fun nightlife, and plenty of Spanish pizzazz. The city is the gateway to the Costa Brava and Costa Dorada, with their many popular beach resorts, but the interesting sightseeing and the treasures of centuries, not to mention the great restaurants and vivacious locals, will keep visitors happily occupied within the city itself. A visit to Spain is not quite complete without a stroll down the iconic Las Ramblas pedestrian street in Barcelona.

Best time to visit Barcelona

It is always the right time to holiday in Barcelona, with its long, hot summers and mild winters. The best months to travel to Barcelona are between June and September, but those who find the heat and crowds taxing should avoid mid-summer (August).

What to see in Barcelona

Catch a football match and take a tour at the famous FC Barcelona Museum and Stadium.

Admire the bizarre and beautiful work of Antonio Gaudi at La Sagrada Familia and Guell Park.

Visit the Joan Miro Foundation to see the colourful art of another iconic Catalan artist.

Marvel at the views of Barcelona from the hills of Montjuic and Tibidabo, which boast many other attractions.

Enjoy the sun, sand and sea, as well as the festive atmosphere, on Barcelona's beaches

Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art, a fun, creative space.

Picnic and stroll in the lovely Parc de la Ciutadella in the centre of the city.

Did you know?

Barcelona has 12 abandoned metro stations which are said to be haunted and can be explored on ghost tours.

There were no beaches in Barcelona until 1992, when the coastal leisure zone was created for the Olympic Games.

Barcelona's stunning and uniqueSagrada Familia Church has taken longer to build than the Great Pyramids!