Barcelona

Barcelona | Jewel on the Mediterranean

This elegant city on the Mediterranean is known for its artistic style, along with its sumptuous food, sophistication and relaxed way of life.

Art lovers will naturally feel at home in this city that boasts exceptional museums for Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso and Joan Miro. Above all, this city is a tribute to the whimsical style of Antonin Gaudi, an architect who lived and thrived in this city in the late 1800s and early 1900s. A must-see is the Sagrada Familia, a church that is Gaudi’s greatest work and displays his unique artistic style. Other works by Gaudi will not disappoint. Parc Guell is Gaudi’s famous work after the Sagrada Familia.

There is so much of everything to enjoy in Barcelona – from the delicious tapas and seafood to the museums to the scenery. And there is plenty to see just outside the city, such as the fabulous Dali museum in Figueres. Another day trip is Montserrat, where visitors can visit a monastery with a legend dating back to just after the birth of Christ.

As much as the city is about culture, it also offers more than its share of fun in the Mediterranean sun. A beach day during the warm months is worthwhile. There are several beaches along the bustling waterfront in Barcelona. Sitges, just a train ride away, also offers the perfect beach day escape from the city. Topless beaches are common in Spain, and if you like to bare it all, nude beaches can be found in these two places, as well.