- Jose Luis Mieza Photography / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
Every city has its perfect season, a time of year when it comes alive, and for Barcelona its time is autumn. It is now that the tourist crowds have gone, along with the sweltering summer heat, that the city becomes ripe for discovery.
Located on the shores of the warn Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona has everything you’d expect from a leading European city including thousands of years of history, world-renowned culture, great shopping, a vibrant nightlife and fantastic food. Add into this mix, Barcelona’s unique Bohemian vibe and stunning architecture and you have a city that is beckoning to be discovered.
What’s more, now that the main tourist season is over, there are fewer queues for the city’s main sites, while flight and ferry ticket prices are normally cheaper and hotels are often starting to drop their room prices. Great news if you want to spend more money in one of the city’s many high-end boutiques.
With so much packed into this small city, visitors can quickly become overwhelmed with what to do and see. So we’ve created a useful guide to some of the activities and attractions that should be on every visitor’s itinerary.
Architecture
Even if you have no interest in architecture you will marvel at Barcelona’s buildings and one place no visitor should miss is Park Guell. This is more of a wonderland than a park, which was originally created for the city’s aristocracy in the early 1900s. The park was designed by Antoni Gaudi and as such features the Modernist style for which he was famed. Statues of animals and fairy-book characters populate the park, while its wooded sections provide the ideal place for a romantic walk and its many secluded spots have been the scene of numerous marriage proposals.
As one of the most famous architects to have lived in Barcelona, Gaudi’s work can be seen throughout the city and if Park Guell has ignited your interest in his work then head to Sagrada Familia, one of the city’s most popular sites. Construction on this basilica started in 1882 and Gaudi worked on it until his death in 1926. In fact the building has yet to be finished, a completion date has been set for 2026. Or you can just wonder through Barcelona’s streets and you will see many Modernism designs, including Gaudi’s Casa Mila, as well as those built in the style of Art Nouveau.
Shopping
Spanish fashion designers create some of the most innovative, elegant and stylish fashions in the world. It is little wonder then that Barcelona is home to a host of designer stores, independent boutiques and world-famous fashion chains; but the city is more than just a fashion powerhouse. Stroll through its ancient streets and you’ll come across beauty stores, book shops, home furnishing outlets, and specialist food and drink stores. Just remember when you’re packing for your trip to leave lots of room for the goods you’re bound to purchase.
Museums and galleries
Barcelona has produced a number of famous and talented writers and artists, so even the most die-hard shopper will be tempted away to indulge in a bit of culture. Head to the Picasso Museum for an insight into the artist’s early years, many of which he spent living in and being inspired by the city. The museum shows many of his early works, including sketches and paintings that demonstrate his talent even at a very young age. Another notable museum is the Fundacio Joan Miro, which is dedicated to the life and works of 20th Century artist Joan Miro. Alternatively, there are a number of museums dedicated to the city’s history and galleries showcasing its impressive art collections.
Beach
One of the most unique aspects of Barcelona is that it has all culture, shopping and restaurants of a great European city, but located right on the Mediterranean coast. It is well worth spending a day heading to the beach to bask in the warm autumn sunshine, you might not be brave enough for a dip in the water but there are many beachside bars where you can sit back, relax and soak up the atmosphere.
Written by Derin Clark, a writer, editor and blogger.