posted by Jon Mansell
I think that Barcelona is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and had the opportunity to explore it's many charms in 2012. You have cobblestone streets, wide boulevards, amazing architecture, great food and Mediterranean weather. Add in museums, shopping, music and Catalan culture you have a great vacation destination!
A week is an ideal length of time to spend in Barcelona. But regardless of how much time you stay in this former Olympic city, here are six sights not to be missed:
1. La Rambla - this is the most famous street in Barcelona. This wide boulevard stretches several blocks and is teeming with tourists and locals. Lined with beautiful, historic buildings such as the Opera House, it ends at the waters edge where you will see the 1600 foot statue of Christopher Columbus pointing to the New World.
2. The Gothic Quarter - surrounding the Cathedral in the old town is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys filled with shops and cafes. When walking through the "Barri Gotic", just imagine King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella welcoming Columbus home from the New World in 1493!!
3. Parc Guell - This park overlooking the city is the creation of the famous sculptor and architect, Antoni Gaudi. Fairytale spires and mosaic benches and Gaudi's home, make this a great visual treat.
4. Monjuic - Montjuic rises steeply on the western side of Barcelona and is the home of the 18th century Castell de Montjuic. You can take the funicular from the Paralell metro station and then a cable car to the top where you can then explore the vast grounds with amazing views of the city. The paintings of famous Spanish artist, Joan Miro are on display at the Fundacio Miro.
5. The National Palace (at night) - at the north end of Montjuic and starting at the Place d'Espanya are the steps leading to the National Palace. Situated in front is the "Font Illuminosa". In the summer evenings, this fountain is a spectacle with coloured lights, and waters dancing to the music of Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballe singing "Barcelona". Thousands of people and hours of music!!
6. La Segrada Familia - save the best for last! This crowning architectural achievement of Anton Gaudi is one of most beautiful structures that I have ever seen....and it's not even finished. Begun in 1883, it is still under construction. This massive cathedral incorporates designs that are organic, futuristic with Gothic, Arabic and Moorish influences....a feast or the eyes! Gaudi died in 1926 but the structure is slowly being completed.
If you have more time you can include a side trip to the Montserrat Monastery about 40 km north of Barcelona, take the cable car up the mountain to see the 16th century working monastery.
Several Mediterranean cruises depart from or end in Barcelona. Make sure that you arrange to spend time in this unique, beautiful and welcoming city. I did, and I have vowed to return one day.
A week is an ideal length of time to spend in Barcelona. But regardless of how much time you stay in this former Olympic city, here are six sights not to be missed:
1. La Rambla - this is the most famous street in Barcelona. This wide boulevard stretches several blocks and is teeming with tourists and locals. Lined with beautiful, historic buildings such as the Opera House, it ends at the waters edge where you will see the 1600 foot statue of Christopher Columbus pointing to the New World.
2. The Gothic Quarter - surrounding the Cathedral in the old town is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys filled with shops and cafes. When walking through the "Barri Gotic", just imagine King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella welcoming Columbus home from the New World in 1493!!
3. Parc Guell - This park overlooking the city is the creation of the famous sculptor and architect, Antoni Gaudi. Fairytale spires and mosaic benches and Gaudi's home, make this a great visual treat.
4. Monjuic - Montjuic rises steeply on the western side of Barcelona and is the home of the 18th century Castell de Montjuic. You can take the funicular from the Paralell metro station and then a cable car to the top where you can then explore the vast grounds with amazing views of the city. The paintings of famous Spanish artist, Joan Miro are on display at the Fundacio Miro.
5. The National Palace (at night) - at the north end of Montjuic and starting at the Place d'Espanya are the steps leading to the National Palace. Situated in front is the "Font Illuminosa". In the summer evenings, this fountain is a spectacle with coloured lights, and waters dancing to the music of Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballe singing "Barcelona". Thousands of people and hours of music!!
6. La Segrada Familia - save the best for last! This crowning architectural achievement of Anton Gaudi is one of most beautiful structures that I have ever seen....and it's not even finished. Begun in 1883, it is still under construction. This massive cathedral incorporates designs that are organic, futuristic with Gothic, Arabic and Moorish influences....a feast or the eyes! Gaudi died in 1926 but the structure is slowly being completed.
If you have more time you can include a side trip to the Montserrat Monastery about 40 km north of Barcelona, take the cable car up the mountain to see the 16th century working monastery.
Several Mediterranean cruises depart from or end in Barcelona. Make sure that you arrange to spend time in this unique, beautiful and welcoming city. I did, and I have vowed to return one day.
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