Barcelona *****

CITY TRIP

Barcelona is one of the most popular destinations for a city trip in Europe. Barcelona was founded by the Romans at the end of the 1st century BC. The city's hosting of the 1992 Olympic Games gave fresh impetus to Barcelona's potential and reaffirmed its status as a major metropolis.

There are so many thing to see and to do. Take a walk from Plaza Catalunya down the Ramblas to the beach. Stop by for a beer on one of the many terraces while on your way.

Pick Pockets

When in Barcelona (like in every other big city) be aware of pick pockets! Back in 2018 was the first time ever I've been robbed. We were both in a rickshaw when suddenly someone from behind pulled the watch from my arm. This was probably the fastest few hundred meters I've ever ran bit was not able to catch the guy. At the police station there were dozens of people who experienced the same...... So if you ever see a watch offered similar t mine, let me know.

Harbour (Port Vell)

The harbour area is wonderful for a stroll and has many restaurants. Barcelona’s Port Vell, or Old Port, is one of the most appealing places to go to spend a relaxing day at the seaside. Completely remodelled for the 1992 Olympic Games, it is perfect for a stroll or for spending time together with your family or in the company of friends. The port offers a little bit of everything: sport, walks, shopping, enjoying an excellent lunch or dinner, visiting museums, and so on.

If you like large luxury yachts, we encountered the Dilbar, one of the largest luxury yachts in the world launched in 2015. The yacht was seized by the German government because it was owned by Alisher Usmanov, a Russian billionaire. On other trip I saw the Octopus that was owned at the time by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen.

The harbour area also hosts the Maremàgnum shopping centre inside of which are the Aquarium and the Imax cinema, along with an selection of restaurants, cafés, cinemas, shops, bars and nightclubs.

Sagrada Familia

The Catalan Antoni Gaudí, one of the most eminent architects, designed buildings such as the Casa Milà (known as La Pedrera, the Catalan for stone quarry), the Casa Batlló and the Sagrada Família church, which have become world-famous landmarks.

Tablao de Carmen

There are many flamenco shows in Barcelona, but there are good one and better ones. I've been to various shows over the years but the show at Tablao de Carmen is the best one. El Tablao de Carmen has been around for over 30 years and presents a traditional flamenco ensemble in an original atmosphere with proximity between the audience and the artists.

El Tablao de Carmen is located in one of the most charming streets of the Andalusian quarter of the historic area of Poble Espanyol.

Poble Espanyol

Poble Espanyol is a unique open-air architectural museum located on Montjuïc Hill in Barcelona, Spain. It was constructed in 1929 for the Barcelona International Exhibition as a village that would represent the architecture and culture of various regions of Spain.

The museum covers an area of about 49,000 square meters and includes replicas of streets, squares, and buildings from different parts of Spain. The idea was to create an ideal model of a Spanish village, encompassing the architectural and cultural richness of Spain. It was initially intended to be demolished after the exhibition, but due to its popularity, it was preserved.

Poble Espanyol showcases a wide range of Spanish architecture, from Andalusian patios and Valencian streets to Galician landscapes. It also hosts many craft shops, where traditional Spanish crafts are both made and sold, as well as various restaurants, cafes, and outdoor spaces for cultural events, making it a popular tourist attraction in Barcelona.

Boqueria Market

The market has a long history, dating back to the 13th century. It started as a traveling market for meat vendors and evolved over the centuries. The current iron and glass structure was inaugurated in 1914.

The Boqueria Market is known for its wide variety of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, cheeses, and an array of other food items. It is celebrated for the quality and diversity of its products, many of which are local to Catalonia and Spain.

The market is not just a place to buy groceries; it's a culinary haven. There are numerous bars and restaurants within the market where visitors can enjoy fresh food prepared right in front of them. These range from traditional Catalan dishes to a variety of international cuisines.

Where to eat?

Barcelona offers a diverse culinary scene, showcasing both traditional Catalan cuisine and innovative gastronomic experiences. Here are some notable places to eat in Barcelona:

• Torre d'Alta Mar - A unique location on the top of a 75 meter high metal tower.

• El Xampanyet - Located in the old part of Barcelona, this establishment has been serving sparkling wine and classic tapas since 1929.

• Moments - One of the best restaurants in Barcelona with 2 Michelin stars, located at the Mandarin Oriental hotel.

• Bar Mut - For those who appreciate traditional tapas and a well-curated wine list, Bar Mut is a must-visit with its charming European gastro-bar appeal​.

• El Nacional - El Nacional is the first restaurant in Barcelona with different areas where we can try traditional recipes from around the Iberian Peninsula

Where to stay?

Barcelona has over 400 hotels ranging from simple places without any classification all the way up to super de luxe 5-star hotels that can set you down over €5.000 or more for a single night in a luxury suite. I like stay in in a good hotel but at an affordable price. Price/performance (what do I get for my money) is key in my decision what to book. Over the years, I've stayed in many 3 stars that were better as 4-stars and 4-stars being better as 5-stars. It is however my personal experience. Thats why I give my own rating.

Here is an overview of some of the hotels in Barcelona I've stayed over the years:

• Mandarin Oriental - A wonderful place in the center of Barcelona with a stunning roof terrace..

• Hotel Arts - The stunning modern design and location near the beach make Arts a popular but high priced place to stay.

• Urquinaona Plaza - A romantic and playfully modern hotel in the center of Barcelona

BARCELONA, CATALUNYA, SPAIN

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