Barcelona - 4.5 million inhabitants - is the capital of Catalonia, a region with its own language (Catalan), the Spanish language being called "Castilian", its flag, its government (Generalitat), its football club (Barça, European Champion 2006).... and who claims every day more autonomy from his long-time rival, Madrid, the capital of Spain.
It is a dynamic city that can boast of having hosted the 1992 Summer Olympic Games for Spain. To this end, Barcelona has been transformed by equipping itself with modern infrastructures - its air-conditioned metro, sports facilities and the development of its Mediterranean coastline.
Now a modernised city, of great tourist and architectural interest - through the achievements of its iconic arcitect Antonio GAUDI - but also cultural, it has become a major tourist destination in Europe.
Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain after Madrid. It is home to major corporations, major financial institutions and four universities. European airport, the second Spanish port, Barcelona will be linked to Madrid by TGV in 2007 and with France in 2009.
Barcelona occupies a strategic geographical position. A major Mediterranean port located 160 kilometres from the French border, Barcelona, like Catalonia, is a major economic, cultural and academic crossroads.
The French presence in Barcelona is old and multiform. Today, it means a presence of about 15,000 French nationals and a tourist flow of more than 4 million French tourists who visit Catalonia every year.
To make sure you don't miss anything during your stay in Barcelona, here are the must-see visits to the "Condal Ciudad".
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló, Barcelona - Catalonia (Spain)
Casa Batlló is part of the list of Gaudí's works recognized as World Heritage by UNESCO. It is a surprising building renovated between 1904 and 1906, located at number 43 of Paseo de Gracia Driveway. Its visit is popular, so it is recommended to buy tickets in advance via the internet to avoid long queues.
The sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia, Barcelona - Catalonia (Spain)
The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia is a compulsory visit. Another work of the architect Antonio Gaudí, its construction began on 19 March 1882 and is still ongoing! However, the work is expected to be completed by 2026. Even if the exterior is remarkable, it is recommended to visit the interior that will surprise you. Once again, buy your tickets in advance on the Internet!
Güell Park
Güell Park, Barcelona - Catalonia (Spain)
The Güell Park is a public garden with architectural details of tourist interest, the work of the brilliant architect Gaudí. Work began in 1900 and was completed in 1926. Tourism obliges, even if the entrance is free, access to the monumental zone has been charged since October 2013. From the park, you have magnificent views of Barcelona and the beaches.
The Palace of Catalan Music
Palace of Catalan Music, Barcelona - Catalonia (Spain)
The Palau de la Música Catalana or Palau de la Música Catalana is a work of another Catalan architect, Luis Domènech i Montaner. It was built in the Art Nouveau style between 1905 and 1908 and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997. You will be able to visit it by making a guided tour or, even better, by attending a concert.
The Paseo de Gracia and La Rambla
These two prestigious avenues are renowned for their ambience, monuments of tourist interest and commercial activity.
Walking along its two avenues is a unique experience that will make you discover some of the most beautiful monuments of Barcelona and you will also find the shops of the most famous international brands.
El Born
El Born is a lively area in the centre of Barcelona where you will meet old and modern monuments, parks, markets, small shops, restaurants and bars. If you are looking for a place to go out for a drink at night, go to El Born. Its many bars offer a warm atmosphere!
The Gothic Quarter
Barrio Gótico is the old quarter of Barcelona's city centre, named after several medieval monuments. Located in the area called Ciutat Vella, it is bounded by the Avenue de Las Ramblas, Via Laietana, Paseo de Colón and Plaza de Cataluña. Lose yourself in its winding streets, have a drink on a terrace in the numerous squares, shop in the small shops and, above all, don't forget to look up to the sky so as not to miss any architectural details.
Montjuïc Castle
Situated on the hill of the same name, Montjuïc Castle is an ancient military fortress that dominates the city of Barcelona. Moreover, you have a magnificent panoramic view over the whole city. And if you have the chance to go there on a Sunday, take advantage of it, the entrance is free! It is advisable to take the cable car to enjoy the incredible panoramic view of Barcelona.
Camp Nou Camp
Is it really useful to present Camp Nou, the emblematic and legendary stadium of FC Barcelona, also known as Barça? With a capacity of 99,000 people, it is the biggest stadium in Spain and one of the largest in the world. Visit the pitch, the changing rooms, the press room and the Barcelona Museum, where you can relive its history and prestigious achievements.
La Barceloneta and the Olympic Port
To finish in beauty, let's relax on the beach! La Barceloneta is the old fishermen's quarter of Barcelona where you will find good fish and seafood restaurants. As for the Olympic Port, built on the occasion of the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games, a stroll along the seafront promenade is well worth the detour... day and night!
