Barcelona, the historical, administrative and economic capital of Catalonia and the province of the same name, is a city with many attractions. In Spain's second largest city by population, with an exceptional architectural heritage, visitors will always find something to do or see.
Legend attributes the founding of the city, then called Barcino, to Hamilcar Barca the father of the famous Carthaginian general Hannibal.
The street layout as well as remnants of the ancient city walls are still visible today and part of the Roman city is now on display at the City History Museum.
During the 20th century, Barcelona served as the setting for some international events such as the Summer Olympics of 1992.
Today, this city with a strong cosmopolitan component is very attractive for international tourism.
The Rambla, a lively avenue with a concentration of flower stalls and street performers, is one of the city's emblematic places.
The historic center of Barcelona with its bohemian atmosphere, where you can admire the Saint Eulalia Cathedral of Barcelona, is naturally worth a visit, especially since it is one of the best-preserved medieval districts in the world.
Equally unmissable, the Eixample neighborhood is home to masterpieces by the famous Architect Antoni Gaudí and Modernist architects such as the Sagrada Família (still under construction more than 100 years after the start of the construction) or La Pedrera.
La Casa Batllo, Gaudi's mythical work, features, among other things, an exceptional modernist façade, representing the waves of the sea after the lull. It is located in Passeig de Gràcia, as are the Casa Ametller by Josep Puig i Cadafalch and the Casa Lleó Morera by Lluís Domènech i Montaner.
The Parc de Collserola is a peri-urban park of more than 8,000 ha created in 1987 to protect natural areas from peri-urbanization. It dominates the back of the city and is home to many species. There is a telecommunication tower, the 'Torre Colserola' built for the Olympic Games, which at 288 meters is the highest building in Spain.
The parc de la Ciutadella served as the setting for the 1888 Universal Exhibition. Here you can still admire the Arch of Triumph through which one entered the Exposition grounds and the current Museum of Zoology.
The Parc Güell, located on the heights of Barcelona, was commissioned by Count Güell to Gaudí and blends nature and architecture.
The Palacio Güell, the Casa Milà (nicknamed la Perdrera) and the Parc Güell belong to the World Heritage by UNESCO.
The city of Barcelona has several outstanding museums, including the one dedicated to Joan Miró features a collection unique in the world donated by the painter himself.
The National Art Museum of Catalonia is unquestionably one of the finest and largest in the world. Housed in the National Palace at the foot of Montjuïc, it presents an important collection of medieval art from the Roman and Gothic periods.
Barcelona has a network of Metro and a tourist bus. The Barcelona Bus Turístic offers tourists who do not want to miss anything to discover, very comfortably, the most interesting sites of the city.
However, the best way to get around is still... walking, which allows you to discover the impressive architecture of the city, as you walk around.
Barcelona has 5 major tourist offices, whose addresses are listed below:
- the main information center of the city is located at 17 Plaça Catalunya
- the City Hall Tourist Office is located at 2 Plaça Sant Jaume
- the Tourist Office of the Columbus Column is located in Pl. Portal de la Pau (next to the monument dedicated to Columbus)
- the Oficina d'informació cultural, Las Ramblas , 99, will only inform you about the cultural activities of the city
- the Airport Tourist Office, Terminals A and B, can advise you on public transportation from the airport to the city center or to other cities near Barcelona.
Barcelona is more dynamic than ever in 2025. Throughout the year, the city is brimming with cultural, sports, and festive events that are worth a visit. To help you plan your stay, here is an overview of the must-see events of the year:
**February: Llum BCN – Festival of Light Arts**
From February 7 to 9, the Poblenou district lights up for Llum BCN. The streets become an open-air art gallery, with light installations created by local and international artists. A unique visual experience that will dazzle young and old alike.
**March: Zurich Marató de Barcelona**
On March 16, seasoned runners and jogging enthusiasts gather for the Zurich Marató de Barcelona. Known for its flat and fast course, this marathon is the perfect opportunity to discover the city by combining a sporting challenge with tourism.
**April: Diada de Sant Jordi**
On April 23, tradition takes center stage with the Diada de Sant Jordi. The streets fill with stands of books and roses, and Barcelonans exchange these symbols as a sign of affection. It is one of the most romantic and cultural festivals of the year, not to be missed.
**June: Primavera Sound**
From June 5 to 7, the Primavera Sound festival makes the city vibrate to the rhythm of emerging artists and international stars. An eclectic lineup that will delight music lovers eager for the latest musical trends.
**September: La Mercè**
On September 24, Barcelona celebrates La Mercè, its patron saint festival. For several days, the city comes alive with concerts, giant parades, human towers (castells), and street performances. A concentration of Catalan traditions for a unique atmosphere.
**December: New Year's Celebration**
On December 31, Barcelona welcomes the new year with a spectacular light and sound show. Fireworks, artistic performances, and technological innovations make this evening unforgettable, ideal for ending 2025 in style.
In 2025, the cultural and festive vitality of Barcelona is more present than ever. Whether you are passionate about music, sports, or traditions, you will surely find something to enhance your stay in the Catalan capital. Take the opportunity to explore the city from all angles and leave with unforgettable memories.
Author Audrey on 27 September 2023
Travel and Tourism : Stay
Author Audrey on 01 March 2023
Travel and Tourism : Stay