Why I love Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that never ceases to entertain. From your first steps along the city’s favourite promenade "Las Ramblas" to the hilltops of Montjuic and Tibidabo, Barcelona is the ideal destination for a long weekend or short break.



Whether it is food, architecture, beaches, or "fiestas" you’re after, Barcelona really is a city that has it all.



I always recommend my friends to start their visit strolling along its most famous street - the pedestrianised spine of Barcelona known as "Las Ramblas" - winding its way from the heart of the city at Plaza Cataluña down to the old harbour. Here you can enjoy dozens of street entertainers, pet stalls and flower sellers while enjoying some of the city’s finest pastry shops. One of my favourites is Escribà, just north of the famous and colourful food market "La Bouqueria."



Las Ramblas is bordered by the gothic quarter known as the "Barrio Gótico" on one side and the "Raval" on the other. The Barrio Gótico is the ancient heart of the city in which the greatest pleasure is derived from wandering around and losing yourself among the extraordinary variety of narrow streets, small shops and cafés. A visit to the important sites in the neighbourhood such as the newly restored Cathedral and the Plaza St Jaume will ensure you have built some cultural visits in between coffees.



From my front door, I recently calculated that there are no fewer than 20 cafés within a 3 minute walk, many with tables outside to take in the sun or sit under an umbrella if it’s shade you need. Part of the great joy of being in Barcelona is trying to decide which one has the best view for people watching while also providing an architecturally beautiful backdrop. Here, you are truly spoiled for choice.



There are several squares in the Barrio Gótico which are worth exploring, from the grand "Plaza Real" just of Las Ramblas, to the more secluded Plaza St Felipe Neri behind the cathedral, one of my favourites. Along the way you will see fountains, beautiful tile work and the odd religious icon carefully placed to protect the building and its inhabitants.



On the other side of the Las Ramblas is a neighbourhood known as the "Raval" with its edgier, more alternative feel. Throughout its history, the Raval has been a place where new immigrant groups have settled and gained a foothold into Barcelona society - and today is no exception. The result is a dynamic mix of ethnic shops and trendy bars, of traditional Catalan eateries and lively student haunts. Here you will also find the visually stunning "MACBA" - Barcelona’s museum of contemporary art – and the "CCCB" – the centre of contemporary culture with its permanent and temporary exhibitions.



Each of these areas is easily worth a day on its own, but there is so much else to see in Barcelona. Keep reading for further updates on other areas you can enjoy while you’re here in Barcelona.



Bring your camera, plenty of sun screen and a hearty appetite, you will not be disappointed!