Barcelona

Ciutat Vella

The old town of Barcelona is built around Barceloneta, the old fishing village, and retains much of the old charm. It includes the Gothic Quarter with its maze of tiny winding streets and lots of medieval architecture, which is a really fun place to wander, as well as La Ramblas, the famous market street where locals and tourists alike gather. Alternatively, head to Barceloneta beach for some relaxation and excellent seafood restaurants.

Eixample

Eixample is the modernist heart of the new Barcelona and has plenty to offer in terms of shopping and art-nouveau architecture. Home to the Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila and Casa Battló, Gaudi's contributions to the design of this district can't go unnoticed. A closer look through the rigidly straight streets will reveal numerous other interesting buildings as well as a proliferation on Irish bars which offer revelry and a warm welcome to exhausted tourists.

Montjuic

Barcelona city is overlooked by the huge hill of Montjuic. Take the cable car up to the summit for the full experience of the unparalleled city views. There is plenty to do once you scale the heights; explore the Castell de Montjuïc fortress, and the main stadium from the 1992 Olympic Games. For art lovers there's the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya housed in the grand Palau National as well as the Joan Miro Foundation. For a trip back in time, visit the Poble Espanyol, an open air village museum and for a real family treat the spectacular water shows at the Magic Fountain of Montjuic can't be missed.

Further Afield

No visit to Barcelona would be complete without heading to the district of Gracia to see Park Güell, a wonderful twisting park designed by Gaudi. For football lovers a visit to Camp Nou, Barcelona FC's stadium in west Barcelona is an absolute must.