Barcelona

Fast Facts

Location: The Catalunya province in Spain on the shores of the Mediterranean. It is the capital of the Catalunya province..
Attraction Type: City
Significance: A world city, Barcelona is the meeting place of 2000 years of culture and modern architecture and economy
Best time to Visit: Spring, when the temperature is not as hot as in the summer months and nor cold. Winters are also mild and is also a good time to visit.
How to Reach: Barcelona is connected by rail, road and air to major cities in Spain. Its airport receives direct flights from major centers line London and others. It is even connected via sea. If you are taking train, remember the name Renfe since this is the Spanish Railroad company. Direct shipping facilities are available from Majorca, Elvissa, Genoa,etc.
Nearest Airport: Aeroport de Barcelona ( Barcelona Airport)

With roots as far back as the time before Hannibal, and a contemporary skyline, Barcelona is a city that has both an illustrious past and a bright future. The city is advertised as the city “made for all of us” and the various influences that has shaped its unique multicultural ethos gives credence to this claim. Barcelona was held by the Romans,Visigoths, Moors and the Carolingian dynasty (of Charlemagne) over the years and the influences of this diverse cultures menifest themselves clearly in every sphere of life in Barcelona. The Catalan culture that is prevalent here has itself undergone many changes after Spain made its transition to democracy. Architecture varies from the Roman Barri Gottic to modernisme architecture of Antoni Gaudi. It has a a fantastic public transportation system, a seaport that can date its roots to 2 millennia ago and a cuisine that is unique. No wonder then that the city was deemed important enough to hold the Olympic Games in 1992 and the FIFA World Cup in 1982.

Things to Do in Barcelona

There are so many things to do in Barcelona, that it does not really do justice if you are planning for a short stopover. The city is almost a pilgrimage site for architects. If you have similar sensibilities, do not miss out on the works of Montaner and Antoni Gaudi. Medieval charm and roman ruins can be seen in the Gothic Quarter ( Barri Gottic) and dazzling lights on the Torre Agbar will impress you at dusk.

The National Museum of Art in Catalonia is a unique repository of art from Roman times. This is a city that has many museums since there is plenty of heritage involved. You will need separate days to do justice to the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia , The Cosmocaixa and other equally imposing and wide ranging museums and galleries.

Sports, particularly soccer, is big in Barcelona. It is the home of Barcelona FC, one of the legendary clubs in world football. However, Barcelona is also the haven for at least 5 other sports apart from football. Regardless of the time of the year that you choose to visit the city, if you like sports, it is likely that there is an event that you can enjoy. Visit the many municipal gardens including Park Guell and you are sure to find calm surroundings.

Other Activities in Barcelona

Barcelona is also an economic powerhouse. It is the center for important trade fairs at the Barcelona Convention Center. If you care for wireless technology, be sure not to miss the 3GSM which is held a this city every year.

Accommodation in Barcelona

Barcelona is a big metropolis and there are numerous options if you are seeking accommodation. There are many hotels, apartments and even campsites. Some of the hotels and apartments that are on offer are given below

1.Hotel Apartamentos Silver

Bretón de los Herreros, 26
Phone : 932189100

2 Hotel Azul

G.V. Corts Catalanes, 327
Phone: 934255161