Source: Pexels by Saloua Abadi
Barcelona is a name that is famous worldwide. Not only in Spain, or even Europe. People travel across continents just to visit this vibrant city. But why?
With Spain having many beautiful places to explore, why is Barcelona such an outstanding place?
Architecture
It is nearly impossible to hear the word ‘Barcelona’ and not think of Gaudí. Arguably one of the most famous people to come from Barcelona, he is responsible for the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Cathedral.
Gaudí is an integral part of the city and its history.
A key part of Barcelona’s architecture also comes with the contrast between Gothic and modern architecture. Namely, the Cathedral stands out as a traditional Gothic building. It is located in the Gothic quarter – where, as the name suggests, there are Gothic-style buildings.
Food
Barcelona is home to 22 Michelin-star restaurants, so if you like high-end food there is plenty of choice. However, if you want something more casual there are many options in the markets and restaurants throughout the city. You can get a taste of traditional Catalan foods, Asian cuisine, vegetarian and vegan choices, or even seafood. There are delicious options for everyone.
If you want a more immersive food experience, you can choose from many different cooking classes!
Football
Barcelona FC is arguably one of the best football teams in the world. Hosting their games in the Camp Nou stadium, with a capacity of nearly 100,000, the atmosphere and fan base are incredible. Football fans travel from all over the world to see their team play.
The team is known for its high skill level and is a Catalan symbol. They also have one of the highest social media following across the world of any sports team.
FC Barcelona is renowned for its historically skillful and attractive brand of attacking football that places an emphasis on flowing, open play
Clive Gifford, FC Barcelona
Spanish football club, 2023
Nightlife
If you prefer to party and stay up to see the sunrise, then Barcelona is a place to visit. During the day Barcelona is full of life, and this doesn’t end when the sun goes down. Home to famous clubs like Pacha and Opium, or Razzmatazz with 5 different rooms, you can be sure to find the music you love.
If you don’t like clubs but love an atmosphere, don’t worry, with the variety of neighbourhoods there are hundreds of bars and award-winning cocktail bars.
One thing about Barcelona’s nightlife is that there is something for everyone!
The Beach
Now there are not many cities as cosmopolitan and lively as Barcelona, that also has a beach. With a lovely harbour, the Barceloneta area is perfect for you to escape that city feel – whilst being in the city. With surfing and other water sports available, it offers contrast and relaxation.
But did you know, that this beach didn’t use to be so nice?
It was in fact the 1992 Olympics that were held in Barcelona, that really led to an improvement of the city and beach. The Barceloneta beach is actually artificial, with sand imported from Egypt. Because of this, the beach is eroding at a very high rate. It is reported that between 2010 and 2016, the beach lost over a quarter of its surface area, which cost around €800,000 to replace. Despite this, the beach remains one of the most popular places in Barcelona and has played a key role in making Barcelona the “prime travel destination” that it is today.
References
Arch 20: The A-Z Guide to Barcelona’s Architecture and Mind-Blowing Structures You Have To See
FC Barcelona Wikipedia
A Brief History of Barceloneta Beach, Tara Jessop
Clive Gifford, FC Barcelona Spanish football club