The town is a harmonious mixture of the traditional and the modern and you will find both historic buildings dating from medieval times and ultra-modern architecture. Barcelona is the most important economic centre in Catalonia. This Mediterranean metropolis also has lots to offer in cultural terms, including, among other things, the Picasso Museum, the Museum of Modern Art and the National Gallery of Catalonia. The cathedreal "La Seu", which dates from the 13th century, is situated in the gothic old town "Barri Gotic". But Barcelona's landmark is the "Sagrada Familia", the church designed by Antoni Gaudi. Barcelona is busy by day and lively by night. One of the other main attractions is "Las Ramblas", the splendid promenade in the city centre with countless pavement cafes, shops, restaurants, bars and discos. Other must-sees include "El Puerto", the harbour with a wonderful view of Barcelona, and the nearby boulevard "Paseo de Colón".

Tips for excursions

Tour of Barcelona

From the Montjuic hill you have a fantastic view of Barcelona. On to the Sagrada Familia cathedral, principal landmark of the Mediterranean metropolis, and the old town with its medieval influences. The tour ends with a visit to the garden complex "Parque Güell", designed by one of the major artists of the last century, Antonio Gaudi.

Barcelona and the Picasso Museum

Visit to the capital of Catalonia. From Montjuic Hill you have a fantastic view of the city. Visit to the old town with its medieval influences. The Picasso Museum presents the works of the key twentieth century artist. The museum also offers an exhibition on Picasso's life as an artist.

Montserrat

The abbey of Montserrat is located north-west of Barcelona. Visit to the famous 11th century Benedictine monastery at an altitude of 2380 m above sea level, with its fantastic views. Visit to the 16th century basilica.

Day trip to Sitges and its beaches

Tour and a chance to relax by the sea. Excursion to the Catalan town of Sitges. Visit to the beaches with time for swimming, sunbathing and walks along the miles of sandy beaches.

Gaudi's masterpieces

A tour taking in 12 constructions conceived by the great architect, beginning in the Diagonal, continuing to the Paseo de Gracia and, having crossed the city, Parc Güell.

Montserrat and Barcelona

First stage is a visit to the Codorniù wine cellar, where the famous Spanish Cava sparkling wine is made. Wine tasting. Second stage: the abbey at Montserrat. Visit to the monastery and 16th century basilica, in which the world's longest-standing boys' choir holds its rehearsals. Free time for lunch. Third stage is the Mediterranean metropolis of Barcelona. Visit to the Avinguda Diagonal, Passeig de Gràcia with the famous building of Antonio Gaudi, the Olympic Village, the Nou Camp football stadium of FC Barcelona and the Sagrada Familia cathedral.