Weekend Getaways: Gaudi´s Glorious Barcelona

Barcelona remains one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations and for good reason: it’s a city that has so much to offer. Barcelona is smart, sophisticated, and full of fun. It also has the benefit of being one of the only European cities of culture that is also just a stone’s throw away from the beach, giving visitors the best of both worlds! No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it here. But where do you start? Don’t worry, we’re here to help!

Here’s our guide to everything you need to know to make the most of your weekend in Barcelona:

Five Things to Do in Barcelona

1. Appreciate the Architecture. Antoni Gaudi’s modern and unique architecture dominates Barcelona: you’ll find fine examples on every corner. However, there is no better example of his work that the iconic La Sagrada Família church. Despite work starting on this magnificent structure in 1882, it still isn’t finished. Even in its unfinished state, it is considered to be the most beautiful church in Spain.
2. Follow Picasso. If you have a passion for modern art then the Picasso trail is a must: the famous artist grew up in Barcelona. Explore the Musée Picasso with over 4,251 pieces on permanent display, visit the school where he learnt to paint, drink in the cafes where he held court with his peers. It’s a fascinating way to explore the city, particularly if this isn’t your first trip to Barcelona.
3. Head to the Markets. If you love to shop then Barcelona won’t disappoint. Europe’s largest food market, La Boqueria, is located in the heart of the city and offers the highest quality fresh produce. It’s always bustling, and is a popular place for local restauranteurs to select their produce: why not pop by for ingredients for a picnic or a meal on the go?
4. Relax on the Beach. Had enough of sightseeing? If you’ve had your fill of museums and architecture then why not head to the beach for a lazy and laid-back afternoon of sunbathing on golden sands.
5. Celebrate the Beautiful Game at Camp Nou. Football fans would be mad to miss a trip to Barcelona FC’s Camp Nou, which is the most visited attraction in Barcelona. Even if you can’t get a ticket to watch a game, the sight is host to an interactive museum and several other attractions.

Five Best Clubs in Barcelona

1. Mojito Club. Want to experience something Spanish in Spain? Mojito Club is a club with a sexy, Latin vibe. As well as enjoying a cocktail or two, you can enjoy an exciting salsa dancing experience. The club hosts lessons at 10pm every day, so even if you’ve never salsa danced again, you’ll quickly pick up the moves.
2. Sala Apolo. If you enjoy alternative punk or rock music then Sala Apolo is the best club in Spain for you. You’ll find an angsty young crowd here, and the club has an enthusiastic, energetic atmosphere every night of the week.
3. Pacha Barcelona. Perhaps the best-known club scene in Spain is in Ibiza, and Pacha Barcelona brings these Ibiza vibes to the city, no matter what the weather. With a sleek white interior and plush white sofas, Pacha is a visual treat and attracts a young, cool crowd and a host of highly regarded DJs.
4. Moog. Love techno? Then you’ll love Moog! Its located in the gothic quarter of Barcelona and despite being around for 16 years, shows no signs of slowing down or wavering popularity. Its central location also means that getting back to your hotel after a night of revelry will be straightforward.
5. Opium Barcelona offers clubbing with a view. You’ll find futuristic lighting and large mirrors adding to the fun atmosphere, and the club attracts a host of highly acclaimed local DJs from across the country.

Five Things to do with Kids in Barcelona

1. The fun of the fair. Tibidabo is a Barcelona-based fairground that is more than a hundred years old. The gentle rides here are suitable for kids of all ages, and its hilltop location means that whilst the children are enjoying an adrenaline rush, the adults can appreciate beautiful views over the city.
2. Animal antics. Barcelona zoo is a zoo with several star attractions, such as the dolphins and penguins. A fun day out that’s sure to be a hit with children.
3. Fish Fun! On the subject of animals, Barcelona aquarium features 35 tanks containing some 11,000 fish and fascinating underwater creatures. Wondering what fun adults can have here too? Qualified divers over the age of 18 can have the rare opportunity to swim with sharks whilst their children look on!
4. Live the Park Life. Children are cherished in Spain, which means that the city is loaded with dozens of  parks and playgrounds. Of note are the Parc de la Ciutadella, turo Parc, and the Parc de l'Estació del Nord.
5. Take a beach day! Barcelona beach is certainly not just for the grown-ups! If your children need to let off some steam then why not grab a bucket and spade and enjoy a beach day? You’ll find so much there for your children to see and do: at ice cream, splash in the sea, and turn your city break into a good old-fashioned sea side holiday.

 Has your weekend in Barcelona inspired you to spend time in Spain on a more permanent basis? Have you always dreamt of relocating to a home in the sun? Why not get in touch with one of our local property experts to help you turn those dreams into a reality.