Archive for the ‘Areas of Barcelona' Category

Barceloneta Beach

Fast becoming one of the most popular "hubs" in Europe, Barcelona is continually experiencing a fast growth in tourism since the 1992 Olympic games. Since the year 2000, tourists numbers have more than doubled, and in 2006, more than six million visitors enjoyed a taste of the many attractions the city has to offer. From some of the most well preserved Gothic and Modernist architecture in Europe, a buzzing nightlife scene and the sparkling Mediterranean sea, Barcelona has something to offer everyone, no matter what kind of holiday you are looking for.

About Barceloneta: Barceloneta is easily the best district in Barcelona to experience the highlights of this amazing city. You are moments away from the beach in a quiet residential area with some of the best seafood restaurants in town, yet an easy 20 minute walk into the main tourist districts of the city, packed full of attractions, art, architecture and action! Barceloneta is compact and easy to navigate your way around. With a fresh food market and plenty of "paki" (Pakistani owned) corner shops, you don't have to negotiate a crowded supermarket for food, alcohol, cigarettes or suncream. Lets take a look at some of the best attractions in the immediate area:

The Beach, Barceloneta The number one summer attraction in the area: the Mediterranean sea. During the winter just passed, swell breakers were installed just offshore in Barceloneta to minimise erosion and create calm swimming conditions. Perfect for families with small children and those who want to laze around on an inflatable air mattress. A number of beachside bars situated literally on the sand sell drinks, snacks and light meals. Some have DJ's playing chillout tracks on weekend afternoons while guests can sip cocktails and watch the sun go down. For those that have a good spot on the sand, refreshments and creature comforts including beer, snacks, massages, sunglasses and caps can be bought without having to leave your towel by the many "beach vendors" bound to pass you by. Its a good idea to visit the beach without a lot of cash or valuables as this is an area with a particular habit of attracting pickpockets. There's no need to be paranoid. Just keep an eye on your belongings and leave the fancy electronic equipment at home.

El Borne

El Borne is a small neighbourhood that begins from the north of Barceloneta and joins the Gothic Quarter as it heads west. Its easily accessed by either Jaume I metro or Barceloneta, both on the yellow line. Its popular among visitors who are looking for original boutique style clothes and gifts. There's plenty of great bars and restaurants, which come alive at night, particularly  along the tree lines pedestrian street Passeig Del Borne, which leads towards the main Cathedral, Santa Maria del Mar.

Palau de Musica Catalana

A beautiful Art Nouveau style concert hall built between 1905 and 1908 that is now on UNESCOS World Heritage List. Some of the world's greatest musicians have graced its stage over the years including jazz icon Ella Fitzgerald and opera sensation José Carreras.
 It features beautifully coloured mosaic columns, a detailed facade and famous stained glass skylight in the main concert hall. The best way to experience the palace is by taking in a show. Check the website for performance schedules and ticket information. Otherwise a guided tour can be taken in English, Catalan or Spanish every half hour in the summer for 9 euros per adult.

Cathedral de Santa Maria del Mar

A lovely church built in the 14th Century, right in the heart of El Borne, at the end of the main thoroughfare, Passeig Del Borne. Its an excellent example of early Catalan Gothic style architecture. Its a simply decorated church (compared to the Gothic Cathedral) and to some, the most beautiful in Barcelona. It's interior was badly damaged by fire during the Spanish Civil war but has been painstakingly restored.

Parc Cituadella

A small but lovely park very close to the Borne. With groomed gardens and lots of shady areas to sit, it's a popular Sunday location for many locals for a lazy afternoon. The park is also home to Barcelona's Zoo, and has a small lake and fountain called La Cascada. A beautiful baroque style monument built in 1888 and said to be inspired by the Trevi fountain in Rome. It's especially pretty when its running, usually in the evenings.

Chocolate Museum

Children and chocoholics will be fascinated by this quirky museum, wedged between the Borne and Parc Cituadella. Learn about the history of chocolate through the ages from its arrival in Europe to its medicinal and aphrodisiac properties. Open Monday- Saturday 10am-7pm and Sunday 10am- 3pm. Single tickets are 3.90 euros

Barrio Gothic

The Gothic quarter is the area to the left of the Rambla if you're facing towards the sea. It's the oldest part of Barcelona and has many excellent examples of Medieval and Gothic architecture from the 14th and 15th Centuries. Architecture buffs will be in their element here but most visitors usually find the area fascinating as well. It's so well preserved, a walk around the Gothic Quarter is really like stepping back in time.

You could easily spend a day or two wondering all the little side streets with cobble stones, decorative balconies and building facades. There are plenty of little plazas scattered around where you can enjoy a good coffee and tapas. There's also some great shopping in this area. Steer clear of the junky souvenir shops and check out the local art shops, boutiques or artist markets for a unique souvenir.
The Gothic Cathedral of Santa Eulália

The Cathedral of Santa Creu or Santa Eulália is one of the largest buildings in the Gothic Quarter and one of the best preserved Gothic Cathedrals in Europe. It can be found right in the heart of the Gothic labyrinth facing Plaça de la Seu.

Although it has been undergoing extensive restoration work on its facade for many years, covering most of the ornate decoration on the main entrance, the building is definitely worth a look around inside. Remember to wear sleeves and avoid skimpy shorts or skirts or you may be refused entry. In busy times of the year, you may be asked for a donation to enter. The Cathedral is not just a tourist attraction, it's a place of worship so keep as quiet as you can and avoid using flash photography inside.

The first construction work of this grand cathedral began in 1298, continuing for most of King Jaume II's rein. The tropical garden inside is really beautiful and the geese pond is a popular corner of the courtyard for children.  Inside the church are several impressive stained glass windows. You can also view the crypt where Saint Eulálias remains are kept.
Plaza Reial

Just off La Rambla in the lower half of the Gothic Quarter near Liceu metro is Plaza Reial, a popular meeting place for young people in the city, with some excellent (albeit expensive) restaurants and tapas bars. The plaza was built in the 19th Century and features several large palm trees, a beautiful fountain, lamp posts designed by Gaudi and plenty of city life to watch go by. There's bound to be several performers in the plaza especially in the busy evenings.

Plaza Saint Jaume I

Take Calle Ferran from La Rambla opposite Liceu Metro station up to Plaza de Jaume I to have a look at two of Barcelona's government buildings. The Palau de la Generalitat is the one with the colourful tiled dome on top, and is the home of the Parliment, the President and the Executive Council that manage the government of Catalonia. Almost 130 presidents have managed their rule from this building over the years. Opposit the Palau is the Casa Del la Ciudad (City Hall) otherwise known as the Adjuntament, which was built in 1831.

Roman Walls

The Romans came to Barcelona between 15 to 10BC during Augustine's rule. At the time the Roman city was just over 10 Hectares in size. Not much of the walls built by the Romans remain today but every couple of corners you turn in the Barrio Gothic you are likely to find another preserved section of it. The walls were built for fortification against attack and to support aqueducts in the city.

Plaza Del Rei

Located very close to the Cathedral, this Medieval square used to be where the locals shopped in the market for fresh produce, outside the Royal Palace. Built during the 10th Century, the palace was once home to the counts of Barcelona and the Kings of Aragon.

King Ferdinand and Queen Isbella were said to have received Columbus upon his return from discovering the New World in the archway of the palace, looking down onto the square below. Today the palace and the Museum of City History make for a fascinating insight into Barcelona's History, including the ruins of part of the older Roman city, where foundations for a forum, streets, shops and family homes were discovered.

El Raval

The Raval is the district to the right side of La Rambla if you are facing towards the sea. It used to be one of the poorer areas of Barcelona and housed the majority of the city's migrant community. It was also one of the more seedier areas of town where petty crime and dark streets would keep away most tourists.

In recent years however, the Raval has undergone considerable renovations in an effort to clean the area up, including widening streets, better lighting at night and more green areas for the community to gather. It's a colourful area with lots of cultural influences and whilst you would be missing out on one of Barcelona's most lively areas if you were to avoid the Raval, caution is still advised with regards to your valuables and personal possessions. Keep these items out of sight and close to you at all times.

Rambla De Raval

Running parallel to La Rambla in the lower section near Liceu metro station is La Rumbla De Raval. Like the original, it's a palm tree lined pedestrian street, but has a very different feel and a lot less tourists walking around. You can find a variety of international food options from Indian and Pakistani to good old English Fish n Chips as well as a multitude of bars and coffee lounges. There is often a festival or market held there in the summer.

MACBA, Museum of Contemporary Art

Barcelona's Museum of Contemporary Art lies in the top section of El Raval. The best way to get there is by taking calle Elisabets from La Rambla. The closet metro stop would be Plaza Catalunya.

Its a very cool building and is surrounded by cafes and restaurants. A good place to get some tapas or a coffee. You can also spend some time watching the skateboarders who congregate out the front of the building.

The museum has several permanent and temporary exhibitions on at any given time. Check the official website for information about these and seasonal activities which are held in the museum. Opening hours are seasonal but during summer there are usually one or two evenings when the museum is open until midnight. An all access ticket for an adult is 7.5 euros.

La Boqueria, Fresh food markets

A must see in Barcelona is La Boqueria, the famous fresh food market, located about half way down La Rambla on the Raval side. Construction began in 1840 and today the market is one of the most iconic in Barcelona. A range of fresh produce including fruit, vegetables, seafood, meat, and cheese is available as well as an array of delicatessen items like cured meats, pickles, herbs and spices.

 It's the cheapest way for locals to buy top quality fresh produce. A dozen eggs for  1.20 euros, a kilo of cherries for 2 euros, there are plenty of bargains to be had. Some of the best and freshest tapas can be found in the market also, in addition to the restaurants which line the outer walls. Its a noisy, bustling place with plenty to see.

Its a good idea to get there early to avoid being jammed into the crowds of tourists who will inevitably visit the market during the day wielding their camcorders. Keep in mind that touching the produce is not appreciated and some stall owners do not like to be photographed. Ask for their permission first and remember that as an observer, you should try to keep out of the way of those that are in the market to buy their groceries.

Gran Teatre del Liceu

A little further down La Rambla is the Liceu Theatre. Opened in 1847, the theatre was the main opera house in Spain for many years. Despite a fire in 1861 and a bomb attack in 1893 which killed 20 people, the building survived until 1994 when it was completely destroyed by fire. It was rebuilt and opened to the public by 1999.

The theatre is a beautiful example of Catalan modernism and is well worth a visit. If you don't want to see a theatre performance, guided tours of the public spaces run daily at 10am and last just over an hour for 8.50 euros. An unguided entrance fee to have a look around inside is 4.50 euros. You can also book a backstage tour of the stage, dressing rooms and rehearsal areas for 10euros, for 9:30am.

Port Vell

The Aquarium, Port Vell

L'Aquàrium de Barcelona is the largest aquarium in Europe, and home to more than 11, 000 animals and 450 species housed in six million litres of water. Since its opening in 1995, 14 million people have visited this important facility dedicated to the conservation and protection of the sea and its inhabitants, with a special focus on the Mediterranean Sea.   One of the highlights of this attraction is the Oceanarium: a 36 meter aquarium with a transparent tunnel of 80m in length, allowing you get up close and personal with sharks, sunfish, stingrays and moray eels. Certified divers can get even closer by booking a dive with the sharks on Wednesdays and weekends.  Open all year round, a visit to the aquarium is a great day out for families and anyone interested in the ocean.  

Address: Moll d'Espanya del Port Vell, s/n - 08039 BARCELONA
Telephone: Tel. 00 3... - Fax 00 34 93 221 92 26

Email: info@aquariumbcn.com

Opening Hours: From 9:30 all year round. Closing depends on time of year. Admission prices: 15.50 € Adults, 10.50 €, Children

Disabled access: Yes

Getting there:   BUS: 14, 17, 19, 36, 38, 40, 45, 57, 59, 64, 91, 157.
BUS TURÍSTIC (TOURIST BUS): Blue South Route
METRO: L3 (Green) Drassanes, L4 (Yellow) Barceloneta.

Harbour Cable Car, Port Vell The best way to get a spectacular view of Barcelona from above is by taking a ride on the cable car, which stretches between Barceloneta, over the harbour and Port Vell up to Montjuic. There are 3 stations where you can join the car, but it is recommended you start at either Barceloneta or Montjuic to get the longest journey.  

Tickets: 7.50€ Adults, 5.75€ Children.

Getting There: Tower in Barceloneta or next to the end of the Funicular on Montjuic, which is accessible from Metro Paral-lel L2/L4 (Green, Purple). 

IMAX Cinema, Port Vell

A large format, 3D cinema, great for families or rainy days if you're unlucky enough to experience it in the sunshine capital of Spain. located between Barceloneta and the bottom of La Rambla, right by the harbour. For screenings, tickets and contact information, visit the website: www.imaxintegral.com  MareMagnum Shopping Centre Commercial, Port Vell

Calvin Klein, Mango, Zara and a multitude of other fashion, food, leisure and gift shopping can be found at Maremagnum, just past the aquarium. To get there on foot from the bottom of La Rambla, keep walking past the statue of Colon towards the harbour, across the bridge. Visit the website: www.maremagnum.es for more information. 

 Museum of History of Catalonia, Port Vell

The Museo d'Història de Catalunya is the place to visit to find out more about the history of Catalonia and it's people. located right on the edge of Port Vell, next to some excellent seafood restaurants. There is a permanent collection of art as well as temporary exhibitions. Address: Pl. de Pau Vila, 3 (Palau de Mar), 08003 BARCELONA

Admission: 3.00€ Adults, 2.10€ Children.Telephone numbers:93 225 47 00 | 93 225 47 26 | 93 225 47 32
E-mail:mhc.cultura@gencat.net

Getting there: Bus numbers 14, 17, 19, 36, 39, 40, 45, 51, 57, 59, 64 i 157
Metro L4 (yellow) Barceloneta

Parc de Montjuic. Attractions & Museums

A green oasis in the south west corner of the city, Montjuic ("Mountain of the Jews") is the place to go to relax in the shade or enjoy some spectacular views of the city.  There are ornamental gardens, a castle, and several venues used during the 1992 Olympic Games, such as Estadi Olympic (Olympic Stadium) and a diving centre with recreational pool on the edge of the hill, offering panoramic views of the city below.  

Several art museums can also be enjoyed from Montjuic:

•  Palau Nacional: national art museum of Catalunya, which houses Spain's biggest collection of Catalan art.

• Fundació Joan Miró: Modern Art Museum featuring the work of Joan Miró 

•   Museu d'Arqueologia de Catalunya: Covering archaeological discoveries in Barcelona between Prehistoric to the Middle Ages.  

Getting There: Funicular, from Metro Paral-lel L2/L4 (Green, Purple). Bus 50, 61 and 55.

The Magic Fountian of Montjuic, Barcelona 

You'll either love it or hate it. The Magic Fountain of Montjuic is a spectacular  fusion of colour, light, movement and sound. The best vantage points to view the 20 minute show is from the bridges leading up to the fountain or the stairs behind it, towards the Palau Nacional. Chances are you will be joining a large crowd of people. Be aware of where your valuables are at all times and keep your camera strap firmly around your neck or wrist.  

Open: Oct-Apr: Friday & Saturday 7pm-9pm. May-Sep: Thusday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 8pm-12am.

Admission: Free!

Getting There: The Magic Fountain is best accessed by walking from the Metro Placa Espanya L3 (Green). 

 Visit www.bcn.es for more information on Montjuic. 

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