Barcelona. Quite possibly my most favourite European City we have visited!
If you're thinking of a last minute summer break in Europe then I would totally recommend Barcelona, its just 2 hours from London, with so much to do and see!
We thought Barcelona would be ideal as it would be our first flight, and for Rich there was the lure of the Nou Camp though we didn't have tickets for a game just visiting there would keep him happy!
We visited in September 2014 thinking we would probably not get great weather but we were so wrong! September is such a good time to go as its off season so prices are much lower but you still get up to 30 degree sunshine! :) I actually cried on our last day in Barca cus I didn't want to come home haha!
I'll try and keep this short and sweet cus we took 600 odd photos and were out and about pretty much everyday from dawn till dusk!
Where we stayed
We stayed for 5 days split between two hotels, mostly due to that the second hotel was nearest to the football ground and had amazing across of the city which is something I knew Rich would love being a fan of a city break more than something off the beaten track, whilst I loved the first hotel as it was central and close to the centre.
For the first 3 nights we stayed at the
Catalonia Portal L'Angel hotel. If you want central, you can't get better than this!
Its just seconds from Las Ramblas, moments from the airport bus yet when your inside, you can't hear the hustle and bustle of the busy streets - this one is a gem!
The second hotel was
GranHotel Torre Catalunya which is perfect if your staying to watch a game or to stay a little out of the centre.
This one had such stunning views and the restaurant up on the top floor was the best dinner out me and Rich had ever had!
Things to do
Although Barcelona has a metro train system, I'd definitely recommend walking being the best mode of transport round the city so you can really appreciate everything and see all the beautiful architecture.
The only things we used the train for was to get to the Nou Camp and to get to Montserrat, a gorgeous monastery up in the mountains.
Las Ramblas
The most touristy part of the city but a must visit none the less for getting souvenirs and people watching. Not to mention just round the corner you also have Zara and Stradivarius if you need to get your shopping fix!
Barceloneta Beach
Although its a man made beach, Barceloneta beach is pretty impressive. Tapas bars are plentiful, volleyball, clubs and of sun! Don't be fooled though, it is not soft sand so do bring flip flops. The sea is pretty deep as well, there are no low tides here so I admit I was a little disappointed to not be able to paddle, you need to be a good swimmer!
Montjuic
A short cable car ride away is Mountjuic, a definite must see! not only do you get great views of the city but there is also alot of things to do up there including the old Olympic stadium and swimming pool. Its quite trekky so take alot water bottle and refill as you go using the city water fountains.
Camp Nou
Good place to take sport mad partner for the afternoon whilst they check out the museum and the stadium!
Sagrada Familia
Although we didn't go inside on our visit its definitely worth just going along to have a peek!
Montserrat
This is the monastery I mentioned earlier, if you can, do go and take the train and head out of the city to visit. Its so worth the views and a quiet day away from it all! Its a good alternative to Sagrada Familia if you want to escape the tourist crowd.
Parc Guell
Of course, no trip to Barcelona is complete without checking out Parc Guell!
Astonishing place, though can be very busy!
Visit early or head along at sunset to get the most out of your visit and get your photos before the crowds arrive!
Casa Batllo
I want this house!!
Not only a good way to avoid the sun for an hour of two but a chance to see Gaudi's beautiful pottery house in the city. Like Guell, expect amazing architecture like you have never seen before,
Magic Fountain
Lastly, make sure you head along to one of the magic fountain shows on Moutjuic!
words cannot describe how pretty it is - just go along and see, there is no better way to finish your stay.
Got a favourite summer holiday destination? let me know where you love to go!
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