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IN A NUTSHELL
WHAT: Barcelona, 1992 Olympic Host and world class city.
WHERE: Spanish province of Catalonia, on the
Mediterranean Sea.
WHY: Seafood, nightlife, architecture, art, beaches.
WHEN: Any time of year, but the summer will draw a mass
of tourists.
HOW: International and regional flights into Barcelona's
International Airport or via train down the Costa Brava. |
Barcelona,
much like New York City, is a city that never sleeps. This
vibrant Mediterranean metropolis is one of Spain's most visited
cities and is the capital of the autonomous region of Catalonia
(Catalunya).
Barcelona is the ideal destination for tourists looking for
sun, history, seafood, fascinating architecture, incredible art, and an excellent nightlife
which (much like the rest of Spain) continues until dawn.
Travelers who visit this bustling city should expect to immerse
themselves in Spanish culture--with a twist.
In Barcelona the Catalonians cling to their proud history and
traditions, and all the local signs are in both Spanish and in Catalán.
Both languages are official languages in Barcelona, and both
languages share the same Latin roots.
Barcelona emerged at the forefront of media and
popular culture when it played host to the 1992 Summer Olympics, and
the city has continued to grow and prosper in the years since.
This city of 1.5 million now attracts more than 2 million visitors
each year.
While English is not widely spoken, Barcelonans are both helpful and
polite. Do not be afraid to use a few words of Spanish: a
little effort on your part will go a long way!
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Around Barcelona |
BOQUERÍA
MARKET (Mercat De La Boquería)
This Barcelona market located just off of La Rambla is a fantastic
place to visit and to eat.
CATHEDRAL
(Catedral)
Barcelona's magnificent Gothic Cathedral is the highlight of the
city's Gothic Quarter and Old City.
TEMPLE
EXPIATORI DE LA SAGRADA FAMILÍA
is Barcelona's most outstanding landmark, and was the brainchild of
the famous Catalonian architect and artist Antoni Gaudí.
LA RAMBLA
is the
most famous street in Barcelona, and one of the most famous
boulevards in the world. At all times of night and day, you
will find pedestrians, tourists, and vendors on this busy street.
MONTSERRAT
is a wonderful day trip from Barcelona into the mountains inland
from the city. This presents a great opportunity to get away
from the hustle and bustle of the big city and spend some time in
the cooler mountain air. Montserrat is also the site of a
famous Benedictine Abbey.
OLD CITY
(Ciutat Vella) is a
jumble of narrow pedestrian streets and squares which are the
remnants of the old Roman garrison which at one time was one of the
most prosperous cities in the Mediterranean.
OLD PORT
(Port Vell) is a
renovated recreation area in Barcelona Harbor at the end of
La Rambla. This area features
bridges, walkways, restaurants, and Europe's largest aquarium.
OLYMPIC RING
(Anella Olímpica)
is the 1992 Summer Olympic Complex, which overlooks the city.
OLYMPIC VILLAGE
(Villa Olímpica)
district is where you will find Barcelona's beaches. In
addition, this is where you will find the largest concentration of
restaurants, pubs, and clubs in the city.
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Moving to Germany?
Look at out our tips! |
 Moving
to Germany
Whether you are a member of the US Air
Force, Army, or Navy, check out our guide to moving to Europe.
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