Barcelona contains both the authentically historic and the wildly bizarre. From the tree-lined Las Ramblas to the narrow alleys of Barri Gòtic; from the beachside nightclubs to the city’s dozens of sacred churches and cathedrals, this city by the sea offers travelers an overwhelming variety of cultural, artistic and wholly entertaining attractions. It’s the perfect city for spending a week and seems to attract every type of visitor: the family, the adventurer, the couple, the backpacker, the culture lover. And on and on…
Most of the activity in Barcelona revolves around Las Ramblas, a series of narrow streets and alleys centered on an area known as La Rambla, a tree-lined pedestrian walkway filled with street performers, vendors and locals. The nearby neighborhood of Barri Gòtic is also popular among travelers for its gothic churches and cathedrals. Both Las Ramblas and Barri Gòtic, two of the most walkable neighborhoods in Barcelona, are excellent for accommodation, restaurants and nightlife. And if your idea of a perfect vacation isn’t complete without the beach, well, Barcelona offers some of those, too — though travel writers say they’re far from pristine.
Other Barcelona attractions revolve around one of the city’s spiritual founders, Catalan artist Antoni Gaudí. When you travel to Barcelona (and, if you’re going to Spain, you must travel here), there is no better place to ponder the Barcelona skyline than from Gaudí’s colorful, mosaic-filled Parc Güell, or to recall the city’s rich cultural and religious heritage from his masterpiece, the daunting Church of the Sacred Family (Sagrada Familia). Gaudí wasn’t the first of Barcelona’s artistic innovators, but his works — strewn throughout the city — offer excellent insight into the city’s rich personality.
Best beach hotel – Eurostars Grand Marina
On Port Vell near Barceloneta beach, the contemporary Eurostars Grand Marina is so close to the water it’s surrounded by boats. Décor is deluxe passenger liner, and rooms have harbour or city views.
Best historic hotel – Husa Oriente
The 19th-century facade, marble staircase and glass-domed lobby make an elegant statement at Husa Oriente, a former convent. Rooms are uncluttered and modern, with polished floors, modern art and balconies overlooking Las Ramblas.
Best casino hotel – Hotel Arts Barcelona
Minimalist modern rooms at this luxurious tower hotel have high-rise views over Port Olímpic and the marina. Casino Barcelona’s gaming rooms and slot machines are on the ground floor.
Best design hotel – Chic & Basic Born
This Barcelona hotel building in fashionable El Born is 100 years old but the interior is a colour-changing swirl of LED lighting on an all-white backdrop. Set the lighting to suit your mood – maybe passionate red or chill-out lime – or keep it simple in the White Bar serving Catalan cuisine and cocktails.
