Cultures melt together in Barcelona, a lively metropolis of mesmerising architecture, medieval streets and top museums on the coast of Catalonia. Its most celebrated figure, Antoni Gaudí, takes all the credit for the city’s most outstanding monuments. From the twisting facade of stone-hewn Casa Milà to the monumental Sagrada Familia, the work of this world-famous architect can be found all over the city.
In the Gothic Quarter, you’ll find centuries-old tapas bars set among old haunts and a gargoyle-adorned cathedral. Fill up on staples like ground-beef stuffed croquettes and salt-cod fritters under this dramatic backdrop, and wash it all down with a glass of fruity Rioja. Nearby, an amble along the lively, tree-lined promenade of La Rambla will bring you to the coast, where the crowds start to thin out.
Find a slice of beach in Barceloneta or a shady patch of grass in Parc de la Ciutadella, and soak up the year-round sunshine. Alternatively, take a stadium tour of Camp Nou, or climb Carmel Hill for sweeping views and the iconic mosaics of Park Güell – another of Gaudí’s fantastical creations.