Are you planning a weekend away with your group of friends? Then think of Barcelona! This bustling city of Gaudí, Piqué and the well-known Sagrada Familia offers a multitude of possibilities. A rich history, tapas in the sun or a day at the sea, it's all possible. And the best part is:even with a small budget you can be there within a few hours from the Netherlands. Read the highlights in Barcelona here!
Imposing architecture
In Barcelona you don't have to do anything to see everything. In fact, a day stroll through its streets is an absolute must for any trip to this Catalan city. You will be overwhelmed by beautiful parks, basilicas and streetscapes; in which you can also meet many people in the warm spring and summer. The big brain behind artistic Barcelona? Gaudi. The famous Sagrada Familia – a basilica that is still unfinished, and probably never will be built – was designed by Gaudí, and the mosaic-decorated Park Güell was also designed by Gaudí.
Endless shopping streets
Let's be honest:Barcelona is also known as the commercial shopping heart of Europe. Because it is slightly cheap on average, but certainly not inferior to other European fashion capitals such as Milan, Paris or London, people from far and wide come in search of the new trends on Passeig de Gràcia. In this street you will find the more expensive brands such as Chanel, Hermès and Gucci, but also budget stores such as H&M and Zara. Do you prefer to go to small boutiques? Even then you are in the right place in Barcelona:in the el Born district you will find all kinds of (second-hand) items – from shoes to home furnishings.
A day at the beach
Obviously we don't have to tell you that Barcelona is located on the Cote d'Azur. If you have had enough of the bustle and heat that the metropolis brings with it, then a relaxed day at the beach is not far away. There is plenty to do while you still enjoy your own peace and quiet. Those who want an advanced beach experience can also indulge themselves:walk to the Bogatell beaches for nice beach chairs and cocktails.
Spanish food culture, anyone?
Sangria and tapas on a balmy summer evening, aren't those the perfect ingredients for the ultimate holiday feeling? In Barcelona, the possibilities for tasty restaurants are endless. Fine restaurants are scattered throughout the city, but you're in the right place anyway in the narrow streets of the Ciutat Vello – or the old town. For a quick bite on the way, head to Ramblas, the busy street in Barcelona where you will not only see a lot of street food, but also street performers, shops and tourists. A city trip to Barcelona can also be perfectly concluded with a relaxed dinner on the boulevard!
