Barcelona
Barcelona is the vibrant and progressive capital of Catalonia, and one of the most popular destinations for travellers to Europe. Boasting outstanding Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings, world-class museums, and an enviable location by the sea, Barcelona is above all a place where there is simple enjoyment in walking the streets, recuperating in sidewalk bars and cafés, and absorbing the unique atmosphere.
Barcelona has in recent decades undergone a rejuvenation of sorts, with thriving commercial, social, and cultural activity unrivalled in Spain. The sophistication of the city's artistic scene reflects both strong local influences and those of a more international (most notably French) flavour. With its elegant boulevards and vitality, Barcelona is often characterized as the brighter, fun-loving sibling of the more austere capital of Spain - Madrid.
Two major influences have indelibly stamped themselves on the Catalonian capital - the unique architecture of Antonio Gaudi, and the positive impact of the 1992 Olympic Games and associated civic works. New buildings, extensive renovations, and an upsurge of civic pride have been a legacy of the Games, while Gaudi's legacy is brilliantly encapsulated by the Sagrada Familia, the unfinished cathedral that is his masterwork and the abstract apartment complex known as 'The Stone Quarry'.
A good starting point for exploring Barcelona is Los Ramblas, a broad avenue cutting through the Old Town (La Ciutat Vella) from the Placa de Catalunya down to the harbour-edge statue of Columbus. The cramped streets that radiate off Los Ramblas are easily manageable, and far more enjoyable, on foot.
The Picasso Museum contains the most important collection of the artist's early work, and is one of the city's most popular attractions. The museum is located within five medieval palaces.
Another aspect of Barcelona that should be sampled by all visitors is the cuisine. Essentially Mediterranean, Catalonian cuisine features plenty of fresh produce - seafood, fruit, olive oil, and vegetables. Affordable and tasty.
There are, however, darker sides to the prosperity and confidence of Barcelona, with high rates of drug abuse and petty theft. There are 'no go' areas for tourists, and unfortunately the level of theft from tourists is on the rise. Be prepared, and follow sensible precautions.
Getting There
Plenty of airlines - including budget carriers such as Go and Easyjet - fly direct from London to Barcelona. An airbus runs regularly from the airport to the Placa de Catalunya in the centre of town.
More Information
For more information on Barcelona, check out the tourism website at www.bcn.es.
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