Barcelona - Summer Sun

Barcelona has been considered the cosmopolitan capital of Europe. The city is rich in architecture with an enveloping air that stimulates the people who embrace it.  Picasso, Gaudi and Dali are just a few famous names to arise from Barcelona as well as surrounding areas including Catalonia.

 

The city is regarded as an architectural wonder with stunning views, artistic buildings, trendy bars and huge shopping opportunities, or if you like to lie down and enjoy the Spanish weather it’s only a 15 minute walk to the beach.  A weird thought having a beach only a walk away from a major city.  Antonio Gaudi the Catalan architect belonged to the modernism movement, Art Nouveau; he became famous for his unique methods and iconic style.  Barcelona is considered as Gaudi’s art book for his projects.  Although his first projects were built over 100 years ago, the history still remains modern to this day.  His most famed works include the unfinished La Sagrada Familia, a huge cathedral located in the heart of the city and Park Guell, ironically a park with architectural elements.  Gaudi has laid a handprint on the city, his projects and ideas have been the root of the now modernised and cultural Barcelona.

 

For a mere €10, a 2 hour walking tour is available which takes you through the Eixample neighbourhood.  Picturesque and inviting to truly see Gaudi’s individualistic works.  Park De La Ciutadella the most central park in the city and includes; a lake, a zoo and several museums and is the ideal place to relax after a hard day exploring the city.  Relaxing during the day, the city comes alive at night.  It has been hailed the best party location in Europe, with bars and clubs to accommodate any music genre.  The shopping experience in the city is on par with any other, the fashion lovers come out to play, so take your pick from designer outlets or bargain shops.  Barcelona has so much to offer: sights, shops, bars, amazing food and of course, fabulous weather.  It's all reasonably priced and well worth the experience.