What’s New in Barcelona?

Welcome to the Amazing City of Barcelona!

There is so much going on in Barcelona in 2019! Read more to find out why you should go and what’s new in Barcelona for 2019!

Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, Spain.  A destination that combines urbanism and natural beauty.  It’s very easy for Americans to visit Barcelona, as there are currently 12 direct flights from the U.S.  If you’re already in Europe, you can travel by car, ferry, or high-speed rail. You can cross the country of Spain affordably and efficiently.  Barcelona to Madrid is 2.5 hours by train and to Paris it’s about 6 hours.

Accessible by Sea

Are you thinking of taking a cruise to Europe? Barcelona has a port and it is well-connected to the city center.  

Size

With a population of 1.7 million in the city and about 5 million metro area, Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe.  In fact, it was the 4th most visited city in 2017, with other 30 million visiting Barcelona.

In 2017, over 30 million people visited Barcelona, making it the 4th most visited city in Europe.  A lot of travelers love visiting the Mediterranean zone of Barcelona. Did you know that Barcelona has the most hours of sun in the year, more than 300 days of sun a year!  It also has 3 miles of beachfront, unlike the major cities of Paris and Rome (as much as I love both of them). Because of its coastline and proximity to other beach towns, many locals enjoy sailing, kayaking, and paddle surfing in Barcelona.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Barcelona

Locals favorite time to visit is the shoulder season of April, May, September, and October.  

Best Way to Get to Know Barcelona

On foot.  If you want to orient yourself, you can talk one of those hop-on and hop-off bus tours of the city.  Otherwise, focus your sightseeing in one area of Barcelona. For example, if you plan on going to the Gothic Quarter, make sure to stop at the Picasso Museum, go shopping, and have some tasty tapas.  If you plan on visiting Parc Guell, you can pick up some jamon y queso sandwiches at nearby markets and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Other Reasons to Visit Barcelona

Why else go: the history and culture.  The Romans 10 BC founded Barcelona – more than 2000 years of history, especially in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.   You can even hire an architect to guide you through the city. If you’re interested in an architect-led tour, contact us.

Cool Neighborhoods of Barcelona

Born – This neighborhood is full of history. It’s a bit bohemian & cosmopolitan at the same time and it’s the hippest neighborhood of Barcelona with lots of bars and restaurants.

Barceloneta –  Barceloneta is an old fishing neighborhood of Barcelona, where you can find a covered food market.  It is home to the best paella in all of Barcelona. For great views of Barcelona, dine at the W Hotel.  If you want the best paella, stay in this neighborhood – Barceloneta

New Attractions to Visit in Barcelona

• Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site – Until 2009 it was a working hospital, but today it’s been converted to an open-air museum only a 10-minute walk from Sagrada Familia.  
• Torre Bellesguard:  Another Gaudi building with amazing views of the city
• Casa Vicens by Gaudi.  This home opened in October 2017 and is one of the first art nouveau pieces of architecture.  

Music Scene in Barcelona

Palau de la Musica Catalana – This is perfect for music lovers!  You can enjoy traditional Catalan folk music.

Liceu Opera Barcelona – For dressing room and cast visits, please contact us.

Festival Jardins de Pedrables – June 5-July 15, 2019

Day Trips from Barcelona

Girona – Enjoy a side trip to Girona.  It is a spectacular journey back in time and you should visit the city’s large Jewish quarter. Girona is also a great cycling destination.

Costa Brava – Miles and miles of coastline.  What more can we say!

Montserrat – There is a wonderful monastery just a short ride from Barcelona.  It’s absolutely breathtaking!