Visiting the Sagrada Familia

In advance of visiting Barcelona and the Sagrada Familia one reads a great deal about how the yet-to-be-completed and controversial building will evoke a strange reaction within you, but nothing can truly prepare you for the first time you summit from the nearby metro and look up for the first time. This Barcelona building is so different from anything you have ever seen before that it takes a few seconds for the brain to comprehend what it is seeing.

Looking up at the Sagrada Familia for the first time one is greeted with a distinct and unique style of architecture for which the designer and creator, Antoni Gaudi, is renowned. It is difficult to describe this style using words, other than to say it appears that the bricks are melting, creating an almost icicle like image. The structure is absolutely monumental and, for those who are willing to brave the often long queues, fabulous views can be gained of the city by climbing the stairways within. For those who wish to experience the Sagrada Familia in all its glory it is absolutely essential to gain access to the interior and marvel at its superb and intricate design. Be prepared, however, to not have an overly private experience as this building is one of the leading attractions in the city and hoards of people visit here each day.

If visiting barcelona on a budget, walking around the exterior of the Sagrada Familia is a great experience in its own right, and if you take the time to explore the area you can discover some superb vantage points from which to acquire some fantastic photos.

Interesting Facts about Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist resorts in Europe, and indeed the world, and below are some interesting things that you may not know about this historic and highly cultural city.

Many of Barcelona’s beaches are man made - Until recently Barcelona did not have a beach, indeed it was only as recently as 1992 that the beach was created as part of the preparations for the Olympic Games which were held in the city that year.

Wild boars can sometimes be spotted in the region - Boars are not something that you would generally expect to find in a major city, but it is reported that wild boars have been spotted in the Gracia district of Barcelona. This is not to say that you should expect to see hoards of them.

George Orwell wrote a book in Barcelona - One of the most celebrated authors of all times once wrote a book about the Catalan region whilst living in Barcelona. The book is called Homage to Barcelona, and I would recommend reading it before you visit the area to get you in the mood.

Cava originates in Barcelona - Drinking Cava has become part of celebratory routine all around the world, but did you know that it originated in Barcelona. When you visit you should take the opportunity to taste some genuine Cava.

Barcelona FC has roots in England - The famous colours of Barcelona FC were actually chosen by one of the founders of the club who was English and wanted to pay tribute to his old school.
A quick note just to mention that our friends at Barcelona Adventure have now just added Burlesque classes in Barcelona and these are great for individuals or hen groups, in the city. Heading to Barcelona for a stag weekend or as part of a hen group?

Great Department Stores in Barcelona

Barcelona has a thriving shopping scene in keeping with its reputation as one of the most fashionable cities in Europe. There are various different options for how and where to shop, but you should definitely take some time out to visit some of the fantastic department stores around the city. Below are some of my favourite department stores in Barcelona:

El Corte Inglés - This is the largest and possibly the most popular department store in Barcelona. It is part of a large national chain which is the biggest of its type in Europe and amongst the largest in the world. The Barcelona branch occupies a significant space on the Placa Catalunya and sells a vast amount of clothing to suit a variety of tastes, as well as home ware and food amongst other things.

Farrutx - At this modern and trendy department store you can find a whole range of fashion accessories including shoes, bags and leather. You will struggle to find a larger collection of all of these things together anywhere in the city.

FNAC - This is a fantastic electronic retail store where the consumer can find a seamlessly endless range of the latest offerings from the world’s largest names in the field. Whether you are looking for a new music system, a satellite navigation system one of the latest DVDs, you will find it all here.

3 Ways to Get to Barcelona from London

Each year thousands of people travel from London to Barcelona, both for business and leisure. There are number of travel options open to those who wish to make this journey, including the following:

By Air: A number of the airports around London offer flights to Barcelona from a range of different airlines. You can choose to travel either on luxury airlines or to make the relatively short journey on a budget, less glamorous airline. Flying by air is certainly the quickest way to travel to Barcelona as the flight takes around two hours. Don’t forget to take into account check in times and baggage reclaim when you calculate your overall journey time.

By Road: Driving to Barcelona is an attractive option for those who have time to spare as it will allow you to enjoy the countryside and sights throughout the length of France. You can stop in Paris on the way or simply head straight through. The journey time is approx 14 hours.

By Sea: Ferries depart from a number of different ports within around an hours drive from London. This is certainly not the option for anybody who is in a rush to get to Barcelona as it involves a reasonably long journey along the length of France, Spain and Portugal before sailing around to Barcelona. Sailing to Barcelona is more common as part of a cruise.

Try Some Different Parks in Barcelona

When one thinks of parks in Barcelona, immediately one’s mind turns to the famous Park Guell as it is the most famous park in Barcelona. There are, however, many other parks around the city which are offer a less high profile alternative for the tourist seeking a spot of refuge from the built up city. Below are some of the parks which you should try:

Park de la Ciudadella - This park is hugely historic and offers many attractions to entice and entertain the tourist. There are museums, mainly concerned with art and culture, a large lake which is pleasing to the eye and perfect for a boat ride and also a range of glorious architecture. As the park was initially built for royalty there are endless gardens and attention to detail.

Park Laberint - This park takes its name from the significantly sized maze which forms the centrepiece. The maze will keep you entertained for hours whilst the view over the city is breathtaking. Much of the greenery within the garden is sculptured by man and provides an inspiring and soul cleansing experience. The quaint canal adds a touch of romance and is perfect a for lunch time picnic.

Jardins del Palau Reial de Pedralbes - The building in the middle of this splendid garden used to be the Barcelona residence of the Spanish Royal family, which explains its sophistication and the spotless condition in which it is kept. Within the grounds are many museums and buildings which are used for political purposes.

5 Family Attractions in Barcelona

Whether you stay in Barcelona itself or visit on a day trip from one of the many resorts close by, there are plenty of attractions in Barcelona which are ideal for a family visit. Below are just some of the family attractions in Barcelona:

Tibidabo amusement park - With all of the hallmark rides such as the rollercoaster and water flumes, this is a high quality amusement park and a great choice for a family day out.

Beach - One of the main benefits of being located on the coast is that the city of Barcelona has 4 beaches all in easy reach of the city centre. The beaches are all pleasant in appearance and well managed. A promise of these beaches serves as perfect ammunition to persuade your kids to walk around the city.

Barcelona Aquarium - The Barcelona Aquarium, or L’Aquarium Barcelona as it is known locally, is home to some of the most fascinating species of sea life in the world. If you are with your kids you have the perfect excuse to go along. Its ok, we won’t tell anyone that you want to go along anyway!!!

Zoo - A safe choice to keep the family entertained, the zoo in the Barcelona has lots to offer in terms of presentations, shows and activities. One of the best features of the zoo is its location; it is easily within walking distance of the city centre.

Parc de La Ciutadella - This famous park is located right in the centre of Barcelona. It is a great place to chill out after a busy day around the city, but also has a range of activities such as boat rides to enjoy.

3 Gaudi attractions in Barcelona you must visit

Barcelona is a testament to the work and art of famed architect Gaudi. He is not only one of Spain's most famous architects, but one of Europe's most famous. The city of Barcelona is famed for his designs and if you visit the city, here are 3 of the best sights to see.

1. La Sagrada Familia - This famous temple is Barcelona's most famous attraction, not only because it is arguably Gaudi's best creation, but because it has taken so long to build. La Sagrada Familia first began construction in 1882, but due to delays, finances and resources the building still will not be finished for at least another 90 years. While its distinctive design makes it easy to spot in Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia split opinion when it was first announced. Today, it is incredibly popular with the tourists and has to be seen to be truly believed.

2. La Pedrera - Formerly known as Casa Mila, La Pedrera is a stunningly design block of flats that is famed throughout Spain for its 'wavy' design, coloured materials and the 'Virgin' statue atop it. The flats were originally built for the Mila family, but the building was partially destroyed by the Spanish government. If you are visiting the city during the summer, then you will be able to go on to the building's roof and enjoy a glass of wine while looking out over the city. This La Pedrera de Nit' is highly recommended and one of the attractions for Barcelona art and culture. 3. Park Guell - One of Barcelona's main parks, the Park Guell is filled with Gaudi's creations, chief among them is a massive coloured lizard. Due to its bizarre nature and location, it is incredibly popular with tourists, as is the park itself as it was Gaudi's home for the last two decades of his life.