Once Upon a Barcelona

Outdoor cafes, vibrant shopping, late nights and gorgeous beaches... Barcelona has it all...

This bustling metropolis on the Mediterranean is considered one of Spain's most culturally sophisticated and economically viable cities. Fusing surreal art, post-modern architecture and old European charm... Barcelona is simply dreamlike...

From the Airport

For an inexpensive option try taking the train from the Barcelona Airport to the city centre. Service runs approximately every 30 minutes, and you won't have to concern yourself with being stuck in a taxi, with the meter running, during any of Barcelona's notorious traffic jams. The train is a prudent and convenient alternative, especially since the airport is only nine miles to the heart of the city.

Getting around

Considering that an automobile accident occurs every nineteen seconds, it's a wise bet to take advantage of the vast public transit system when visiting Barcelona. Subways, city buses, trams as well as cable cars conveniently run all hours and will be able to glide you throughout the city quickly and efficiently.

Staying there:

Smack dab in the middle of Barcelona’s chic shopping district, is the affordable bed and breakfast, Circa 1905. The hotel's location is simply ideal, being only steps away from Barcelona's Metro line as well as La Pedrera, an apartment building designed by art nouveau master Antoní Gaudí....

With only nine guest rooms, Circa 1905 intermingles archetypal and contemporary features to create an intimate as well as elegant living environment. Most rooms come equipped with a balcony and private bathroom which in Europe is not always the norm.

Also, this delightful boutique hotel offers a health conscious breakfast that is a must before venturing out. The obliging Circa 1905 staff is more than willing to offer any helpful hints and sightseeing tips that you may need in your effort to discover all of Barcelona's hidden gems.

http://www.circa1905.com/eng/home

Is Gaudi... Gaudy?

Onetime Barcelona resident, George Orwell characterized the La Sagrada Familia Church 'as one of the world’s most hideous buildings.' Nonetheless, no trip to Barcelona would be complete without touring the works of the decorative-art architect, Antoní Gaudí.

La Sagrada Familia

Construction of Gaudí's major work, the Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, began in the 1880's and continues to this day. This stunning, free flowing architectural marvel reaches majestic heights and is an awe-inspiring sight. The cathedral can be toured for a reasonable ten dollars.

Or, one can simply relax outside in the surrounding gardens and reflecting pond admiring the external power and peaceful beauty of the basilica.

Park Guell

For an enjoyable outdoor afternoon as well as the opportunity to gain insight into the wild imagination of Gaudi, a great choice would be Park Guell and the Gaudi House Museum. The park is located on the hill of El Carmel in the Gracia district of Barcelona... Although entrance to the park is free there is a fee to tour the Gaudi Museum.

Street Festivals

Spaniards have always been known for their fun-loving nature and zest for life. Be sure to wander into one of the many open air markets or street festivals that are strewn throughout the city. Live music, vivacious street dancers and performers wow and dazzle crowds of spectators, tourist and visitors.

Word to the Wise-- Don't let your vacation be spoiled by petty thieves.

It is only natural to get lost in the excitement of these public celebrations, and not be mindful of your personal belongings. When browsing for souvenirs and admiring the local art, be extremely wary of pickpockets, and bag snatchers.

Montjuic Castle

For unparalleled panoramas and unique photographic opportunities of Barcelona, be sure to visit the Castell de Montjuïc. Originally constructed as a watch tower to alert the locals of enemy ships, the castle was completed in 1640 and was later used for the repression of anarchists. Today it is an interesting tourist attraction that can be viewed daily----guided tours are available in Sundays as well. To save some wear and tear on your feet, take the cable car up Montjuic Hill.

Museu Picasso

"Here (Barcelona) is where it all began..." --Picasso

During his lifetime, Pablo Picasso always had a close affinity with Barcelona. One of Barcelona's most popular tourist attractions, this fascinating museum showcases a comprehensive survey of Picasso's art. Get there early on in an effort to beat the crowd.

http://www.museupicasso.bcn.es/en/

Teatro-Museo Dali

Traverse through the striking Spanish countryside, for a unique day trip to the Dalí Theatre-Museum in medieval Figueres. Experience a very personal tour of the innovative exhibition... gaining insight into both the life and surrealistic art of Salvador Dali. For an unexpected and welcomed delicacy, be sure to treat yourself to some of the local Figueres cuisine and wine.

http://www.salvador-dali.org/museus/figueres/en_index.html

Romero Restaurante

If you don't want don't want to spend a fortune on delightful Mediterranean cuisine in Barcelona... be certain to drop into Romero's Restaurante. Whether you're interested in a romantic dining escapade or casual outing with friends or business associates... this is the place for you. Any special food preparations or vegetarian desires will be more than accommodated by the service staff. Fresh, tasty and very reasonably priced entrees are served in an inviting, stylish atmosphere.

http://www.romerobcn.com/