Barcelona Blog – Tips, culture, things to do, restaurants and much more

Our Barcelona Blog is here with the complete guide to one of Europe’s most coveted destinations.

We’ve got you covered for your next visit to this wonderful city, with tips about what to do, where to stay, restaurants, and much more. This guide is curated by locals to ensure your stay is simply unforgettable.

So whether you’re planning a city break, a summer getaway, a business trip or a family holiday, here you’ll find everything you need to know, and in one place!

So, let’s dive in!

Barcelona blog

Barcelona Blog: What to See & Do

We agree that it can be a little overwhelming planning what to see and do in a city that has so much to offer.

Barcelona is steeped in historical heritage. If you’re dying to find out more about the Roman past of Barcino, check out our guide to the city’s old quarter, known as Ciutat Vella.

No visit to Barcelona is complete without a visit to the masterpiece that is the Sagrada Família. Our Barcelona blog boasts tips about your visit (such as booking in advance), the history of the monument and interesting facts that we’re sure you didn’t know. Read on here!

If you’re a Gaudí fiend, why not explore some of this modernism architect’s lesser-known pieces scattered around the city?

If you have 48 hours or less in the city, we recommend you tick off the city’s top 10 attractions including its famous bustling Les Rambles and Camp Nou – the world’s third largest football stadium.

What’s more, we’re in the midst of one of the best times of the year to visit: it’s summer! This Barcelona blog can recommend a plethora of outdoor plans.

Why not hit one of the city’s nine beaches to cool off and top up your tan? Our other favourite outdoor plans include discovering the Montjuic mountain, relaxing in the natural park Collserola and catching some amazing views of the skyline from the Carmel Bunkers.

Finally, if you love wandering the streets of a new city and taking in hidden delights away from the most popular tourist spots, why not explore our Barcelona blog area guides replete with local tips.

Discover the colourful and cultural Raval, the majestic district of Eixample, and the beautiful Born home to the Picasso museum and the Palau de la Música music hall.

Palau de la Música - Things to do in Gothic Quarter
Barcelona Blog – Palau de la Música Catalana

Barcelona Blog: Where to eat

When on holiday, knowing the best places to eat can often be an odyssey. That’s why our Barcelona blog has got you covered!

If fine dining is something you’d like to try, you’re in luck! With an array of Michelin-star restaurants, you’ll find something for all tastes and budgets. What’s more, thanks to recent food trends, many a new veggie spot has popped up in the city. Our Barcelona blog recommends our favourite vegetarian restaurants from its famous Teresa Carles to its family-run L’Hortet.

Our Barcelona blog also recommends you try Catalan cuisine on your visit here. Discover the best places to order pà amb tomàquet (toasted country loaf with garlic and tomato), springtime calçots (grilled long sweet onion) and butifarra amb mongetes (Catalan sausage with white butter beans) here.

With its all-year-round wonderful climate, outdoor eating in Barcelona is one of its best attractions. Whether you fancy a beer and tapas with friends, a long lunch or to unwind with a book and a coffee, the city has many a beautiful terrace where you can pull up a chair and relax. Discover our top 10 Barcelona terraces here.

LA Panxa del bisbe - barcelona blog
Barcelona Blog. La Planxa del Bisbe Resetaurant

Barcelona Blog: Where to stay

When it comes to finding a place to stay, why not check out our Barcelona blog for our guides to the best areas and information about long-term and short-term rentals in the city’s best locations.

Discover our modernist Dandi apartment with a terrace in the opulent district of la Dreta de l’Eixample – only one block away from Passeig de Gràcia. Or in the upcoming LGTBQI-friendly l’Eixample Esquerre – voted the coolest neighbourhood in the world by Time Out – you’ll find the romantic KissMe apartment.

In the heart of the old quarter find our spacious 3-bedroom MACCA apartment a stone’s throw away from La Rambla. Or if peace and quiet is on your mind, our Jollie penthouse boasts a sun-drenched terrace in the residential area of Les Corts.

Find our Barcelona blog complete guide to the city’s best locations, a low-down on each neighbourhood and the best apartments here.

Apartment-Zona-Alta-Barcelona-Ferran-Batik-Barcelona blog
Ferran Batik Apartment

Barcelona Blog: day trips

Last but not least, Barcelona boasts a prime location perfect for exploring the surrounding region of Catalonia. With sprawling beaches, beautiful mountains and sleepy fishing villages a short journey away, taking a day trip from Barcelona is the perfect complement to your trip.

A few hours from the city lies Cadaqués in the province of Girona. You’ll fall in love with its stunning promenade, whitewashed houses and the cobbled streets of its historic centre.

Another unmissable day trip is to Sitges. Known around the world as a top LGTBQI destination, don’t miss its nightlife, beautiful beaches and museums, all only a 40-minute train journey from the city.

You can discover more of our favourite simple day trips from Barcelona here.


We hope our Barcelona Blog complete guide to the city comes in useful on your next trip! You know where we are.

Day-trip-to-Cadaqués
Cadaqués – Barcelona Blog

1 day trip to Cadaqués to cherish forever

Shall we go on a 1 day trip to Cadaqués? The days are getting warmer and longer and winter is certainly on its way out. With the Easter holidays just around the corner, we’re already thinking about getting out of the city and making the most of the sunshine.

Cadaqués, located in the province of Girona, makes for the perfect springtime day trip from Barcelona. A few hours’ drive away, this picturesque seaside town is one of the Costa Brava’s best-kept secrets.

The endearing fisherman’s village is home to whitewashed houses with periwinkle-blue doors and is lapped by the Mediterranean sea. If you’re planning to visit Cadaqués on your next trip to Barcelona, we’ve put together this small guide to ensure you make the most of your day there!

Day trip to Cadaqués - Day trips from Barcelona - Barcelona Day Trips

Stroll along the seafront promenade

Soak up the tranquility of this Mediterranean village with a pleasant stroll along its seafront.  With each step you’ll spot a new delight, with plenty of opportunities for postcard-perfect photos, small, local restaurants to grab a drink or a snack in the shade, and wooden benches where you can stop and simply take in Cadaqués.

We’d recommend you follow the coastline along to Cala es Ros to enjoy the turquoise waters and escape the crowds. If you feel like walking a bit further, head on to Sa Conca, a secluded, rocky cove often only frequented by locals. 

Explore the historic centre

From the promenade, head into the heart of Cadaqués and exploring its medieval historic centre. Get lost among the narrow cobbled streets adorned with purple and pink bougainvillea. Be sure to head up to the Santa María church, which offers breathtaking views over the bay.

Day trip to Cadaqués

Visit the Casa Museu Dalí

Just outside of Cadaqués is the small village of Portlligat, where Dalí lived for a considerable number of years with his wife, Gala. Their house, which is actually several fishing huts merged together, has been preserved exactly as it was when the couple lived there together. For only 11 euros you can discover this unique museum.

With the great Catalan artist taking much inspiration from this coastline, you’ll spot his influence everywhere and see just why he fell in love with what he called the most beautiful part of the world.

Day trip to Cadaqués - Museo Dalí

Try the local food – Day trip to Cadaqués

A trip to Cadaqués would not be complete without sampling the local food. Grilled fish freshly caught that morning is a specialty, with lobster and prawns, sea urchins and fish stews being the protagonists of most menus. You also can’t leave without trying the local black rice dishes or a simple breakfast overlooking the turquoise waters.

Where to eat in Cadaqués

Getting there – Day Trip to Cadaqués

Don’t be put off by Cadaqués being that little bit harder to reach. Its secluded location nestled among the mountains has been a blessing, with fewer tourists than other coastal resorts.

If you have a hire car, bear in mind that parking in Cadaqués can be difficult. Follow the winding road from Barcelona and you’ll find a parking lot on the outskirts of the village, but get there early to secure a spot. The journey takes around two and a half hours.

There’s also a bus from Barcelona’s Estació Nord with tickets costing around 25 euros one-way. 

Cadaqués is authentic beauty and one of the most stunning towns in Catalonia. If you come to Barcelona, ​​you can’t miss spending a day trip to Cadaqués.

We hope you enjoy your day trip to Cadaqués! Let us know what you discover!

Also check here other interesting day trip guides:

5 Medieval villages in the Empordà 
A day out in Sitges
 Day Trip to Montserrat
Day Trip to Dalí Museum from Barcelona
La Roca Village shopping day trip from Barcelona

Day Trip to Salvador Dalí Museum from Barcelona

Shall we go on a day trip to Salvador Dalí Museum? North of Barcelona lies the sleepy town of Figueres. On first glance it may not seem that different to other Catalan towns, with its quaint squares and local cafés and restaurants. Yet this seemingly normal town is the birthplace of the master of surrealism: Salvador Dalí.

For visitors to Barcelona who wish to escape the crowds and delve into Dalí’s sublime mind, we’ve put together this small guide for a surreal day-trip for the whole family.

Salvador Dalí museum - Dalí Figueres

History of the Salvador Dalí Theatre-Museum

Dalí travelled the world as an artist, conquering Spain, France and the US, yet Figueres always held a place in his heart. It was this reason that he chose it as the home for his museum.

It was in 1974 that the town’s old theatre – which was destroyed in the Civil War – was reopened to showcase a large selection of his art. Dalí wanted a place where visitors could immerse themselves in his diverse range of work. He supervised the entire design and reconstruction to ensure his wishes were fulfilled, staying at a nearby hotel.

The result, as you will discover, was a flamboyant, indescribable space that goes beyond what any other local artist achieved. This is Dalí’s legacy as a surrealist and will surely be the most original and unique museum you ever visit.

Visiting the Salvador Dalí Theatre-Museum

From the famous eggs perched on the museum’s rooftops to Dalí’s very own black Cadillac where it rains, Dalí’s aim was to astound, amaze and amuse. 

Every room and every piece proposes a question to the visitor and we are sure you will come up with your own conclusions about Dalí’s works. Discover the Mae West room designed with the actress’s facial features. Look out for pieces dedicated to Gala, the love of his life. Stare in wonder at the Oscar statues.

A ticket to the museum cost €14 for adults and are free for under 8s. We’d recommend saving 2–3 hours for the visit to ensure you make the most of this surreal experience. Museum opening times vary depending on the season (peak season 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.) and exhibition rooms close around 15 minutes before the actual closing time. There is also the option to book a guided tour with an expert guide, who will share stories about Dalí’s life, the inspiration behind his theatre-museum and its most eccentric and bizarre pieces.

Salvador Dalí Museum
Salvador Dalí Musum

Exploring Figueres

Aside from the town’s top attraction, Figueres itself is also worth exploring. Look a little closer and you might be surprised – there is a little bit of Dalí to be found on every street corner. If you decide to stay a little longer after your surreal trip, take a wander through its cobbled streets and discover its emblematic churches, the Plaça de Gala y Salvador Dalí and the Rambla de Figueres, and the Toy Museum of Catalonia (where you will get 30% discount on entry with your Dalí theatre-museum ticket). You won’t be disappointed!

How to get there

Figueres is located close to the city of Girona and around 140 km away from Barcelona.

Getting there by public transport is relatively easy. Take the train to the Figueres-Vilafant railway station from Barcelona Sants station and, in a short journey of 55 minutes, you’ll be in Figueres. Return tickets start from €30 depending on the train service (Ave or Avant). The museum is about 10 minutes walking distance from the station.

If you prefer to take the bus, Sagalés coaches offer services from Barcelona El Prat Airport or Barcelona Estació del Nord, which take just under 3 hours. Tickets cost €20 each way and you’ll take either bus 602 or 603.

If you’ve hired a car, take motorway AP-7 towards France and take the Figueres exit. Then head towards Figueres city centre.

Check out the opening times and ticket prices, book online and find out all you need before you visit the Dalí theatre-museum here.

The Dalí museum is a flamboyant and spectacular experience not to be missed!

And remember, If you are planning to visit Barcelona, We’ve got what you need! Long term and short term apartment rentals in Barcelona: Here at BizFlats, we are proud to offer you quality apartments located across Barcelona city: www.bizflats.com

Day Trips from Barcelona – 5 Medieval villages in the Empordà 

Thinking about day trips from Barcelona? There’s no doubt that Barcelona is a vibrant city with plenty of sights to see, but if you feel like escaping the city for the day, Catalunya has unlimited opportunities for scenic day trips from Barcelona. If you’re into Game of Thrones, or just a lover of all things medieval than look no further than a day trip from Barcelona to the beautiful region of Empordà. Nestled between Sant Feliu de Guíxols and the French border, you may have heard of one of the most famous towns there, Figueres, birthplace of Salvador Dalí and one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona. However, this region has much more to offer, head into the quieter parts where you will find a number of medieval villages to explore.

The fact that the region is just a short hour and forty-five-minute car journey from the city centre make it the perfect day trip from Barcelona. Make a whole day out of it by hiring a car and exploring a couple of the exciting options we lay out below, stopping for a spot of lunch at the location of your choosing – this region has plentiful delicious restaurants.

For your choice of the best day trips from Barcelona, choose from the following list.

Our five favourite medieval villages in the Empordà:

Peratallada

Situated east of Girona city, Peratallada is often considered to be the most beautiful town in Catalunya, due to its authentic medieval streets. A visit here will seem like you’ve entered a fairy tale, as you wander through the pebbled streets and marvel at the stone houses and the fortress around the town that remains to this day. Full of hidden treasures, Peratallada also houses the Peratallada castle, dating back to the 11th Century. Once you are done exploring the town, make sure not to miss Gelats Angelo, an artisanal ice cream shop where you will be sure to have a gourmet experience. For the braver amongst you, it’s even possible to try ice cream flavours such as anchovy or cheese.

Day Trips from Barcelona -Peratallada

Monells

If you are into cinema, you may recognize this town from the movie “8 Apellidos Catalanes”. Just 20 minutes away from Peratallada, the medieval town is built around a former castle, of which only one wall now remains. Take a leisurely stroll through its winding streets until you reach the magnificent porticoed Jaume I square, the centre of an important market in medieval times.

Day trips from Barcelona - Monells

Pals

Known as one of the most charming villages in the region, the historical centre of Pals has been well conserved thanks to a local doctor who ensured it was declared a Site of Historical Interest. Throughout the town you will find a number of historical landmarks, including the “Torre de les Hores”, a circular Romanesque tower, where it’s possible to take a tour for free, and the “Església de Sant Pere”, which exhibits a curious mix of different architectural styles. Not only can you explore the medieval points of interest in Pals, but the town is also famed for its gastronomy.

Day trips from Barcelona - Pals

Palau-Sator

Another place to stop on your day trip from Barcelona is the small quaint town of Palau-Sator. Here you can explore sites such as the “Sant Julià de Boada” shrine, one of the most interesting pre-Romanesque monuments in the region, dating back to the 9th century. Palau-Sator is also a great place to stop for lunch on your day trip, due to its variety of highly-rated restaurants. Try Mas Pou for some traditional Catalan cuisine amongst beautiful countryside settings.

Palau Sator - Day trip from Barcelona

Madremanya

For a rural escape amongst the mountains try heading to Madremanya for your day trip from Barcelona. More than just a beautiful medieval city, Madremanya lies at the foot of the Gavarres hill, making for some spectacular scenery. Thought to date back to 1053, the village oozes history and is the perfect place to hire a bike so you can take in everything this charming town has to offer.

Madremanya

So, if you’re looking for an escape from the bustling city of Barcelona, why not escape to the beautiful countryside on one of these day trips? 

You will also like:

Barcelona Day Trips – a day out in Sitges

If you spend a few days in Barcelona you can also plan several Barcelona day trips that you will love, for example a day out in Sitges.

Located just a short way outside Barcelona, to the southwest just a 40-minute journey on the local rail service either from Estació de França, Sants or Passeig de Gràcia rail stations, the romantic and historic village of Sitges is a perfect destination for Barcelona day trips.

The proximity and ease of arrival make Sitges one of the most enjoyable Barcelona day trips to do.  It will cost approximately 9 EUR (day return) on the train, usually 4 trains run every hour, dropping visitors off at one of the most beautiful and fabled villages of Catalunya’s Costa Daurada.  Simply alight and stroll into the town from Sitges rail station, the stunning beaches are not too far away. There is so much history here, so where do you start?

Barcelona Day Trips – Sitges

Foremost, Sitges is famous as a party town.  The first ever Pacha nightclub in the world – created 10 years before Eivissa (Ibiza) – was founded here.  But let’s not forget it’s annual Carnaval – one of the biggest in the world – its frequent fiestas, major film festival or the Corpus Cristi.

Going even further back in time, the Romans occupied the village and it was a major point of trade and festival.  In fact, according to the Museu de Sitges, “since ancient times, the site of Sitges has been associated with a small Roman town mentioned in classical sources called Subur.”  Centurions, who were paid in salt from Ses Salines in Eivissa, then took a short cruise to Sitges to spend their wages in true soldier fashion.

Pretty much, this is still what happens today, and Sitges now occupies an even more special place on the global map – the pink map to be precise.  Best described as poly-sexual, Sitges is probably the world’s number one destination for the LGBT community.

Sitges’ most (in)famous street is Carrer del Pecat (Sin Street) as it is known here.  Its real name is Carrer Primer de Maig de 1838, and it is here where artists such as Dali and Picasso used to meet and hang out in their younger years during the 1960’s.

The beach in Sitges which you can visit on Barcelona Day trips

At the bottom of Carrer del Pecat is the beach, one of 17.  This one is called Platja de la Ribera and home to El Chiringuito… quite literally the first ever chiringuito (beach hut bar) built in Spain.  Turn to the right and walk up the beachfront a little way and you will come to a fine beachfront restaurant called Pic Nic.  Perfect for a fresh fish lunch and to nibble on some tapas specialties.  Pulpo Gallega, sepia, patatas bravas and fresh pa amb tomàquet (bread rubbed with tomato) are always on the menu and this selection of dishes should cost about €25 per person.

Sailboats on the beach in Sitges

After the sustenance, the energy kicks in!  Use your time wisely on this Barcelona day trip and see some of the sights.  Follow the path down to the bottom of the church and the old town.  Take the steps up to the old quarter and you will find the magnificent church – dedicated to the town’s patron saints, Sant Bartomeu and Santa Tecla, or drop into the recently refurbished Cau Ferrat Museum.

A suggested route for this day trip is to follow in footsteps of Sitges’ fanciful forefather, Modernist artist and most beloved Santiago Rusiñol.  Enjoy a healthy stroll high above Platja de Sant Sebastià to marvel at the graveyard and viewpoint that looks down on to Port de Sitges: Aiguadolç

The rest of your day could be spent sampling the artisanal wares of the many shops that Sitges has hidden down its back streets, with each and every one unashamedly paying homage to Sitges’ mix of maritime and melancholic glamour.  Check out the numerous interior design, curiosity and antique shops, carelessly scattered between the village’s many cobbled streets.

Before you end your Barcelona day trip and make your back to the city, stop to ‘whet your whistle’ at the locals favourite watering hole, El Cable, on the corner of Carrer Barcelona with Carrer Santiago Rusiñol.  The libations here are almost as famous as the town’s fearsome film festival.

Whatever your thoughts are on this historic hideaway during your Barcelona day trip, one thing’s for certain – you’ll be sure to wave it goodbye, many times again.  For your stay in Barcelona, please do visit our page to see a great selection of fine apartments. 

Also check here other interesting day trip guides:

5 Medieval villages in the Empordà 
Day Trip to Montserrat
Day Trip to Dalí Museum from Barcelona
La Roca Village shopping day trip from Barcelona

13 Barcelona Apps to enjoy the city

These Barcelona Apps will give you all the guidance you need. There is no need to wander around the city with your nose buried in a guide book!

Barcelona Apps: Transport

  • Virtual Bus Touristic App

Plan where you want to hop off by taking a ride on the virtual-reality version of this iconic bus tour first.

Virtual Bus Turistic Barcelona Apps

  • TMB App

This easy-to-use Barcelona app allows you to plan your route using the city’s combined bus, metro, train and tram network. Simply put in your start and end points and it will give you a list of options, the time each will take and when your first connection is due.

Barcelona Apps_TMB.l1

  • MyTaxi App

Simply enter your destination and how you want to pay you’ll soon be sent a picture of the driver who is on their way to you.

Barcelona Apps My Taxi App

Barcelona Apps: Sightseeing

  • The official guide to Barcelona App

A traditional city guide on your phone. Includes all the information you need as a tourist in Barcelona.

Barcelona Apps Barcelona_Guia_Oficial.l1

  • Mapp4all App

This Barcelona app details the accessibility of famous sights and museums as well as the more day to day amenities such as banks, supermarkets and restaurants.

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  • iBarcelona – Smartour App

The ultimate Barcelona app for the smart phone generation. If you don’t know where to start, follow their recommended itinerary or see what local events are near your apartment.

Barcelona Apps Smartour_Barcelona.l1

  • GaleriesArt App

Find everything you need to know about the galleries in the Association of Art Galleries of Catalonia (GGAC), from exhibition dates and opening hours to information about featured artists. The geolocation capability helps you find galleries near your apartment.

Barcelona_Galeries_Art_l1

  • Joan Miró App

Scan the code next to the famous works to find out the story behind it. For an artistic spin on sightseeing, you can also walk a mile (or more!) in Miró‘s shoes and take a look at his former residences around Barcelona.

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  • Barcelona Metro Walks App

This Barcelona app will guide you around Barcelona’s surrounding neighbourhoods by public transport and on foot. The audio guide will show you the real Barcelona by explaining its history and development.

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  • 22@Barcelona App

Jordi, a local architect and interior designer will give you a tour of a former industrial neighbourhood, now a urban hub of innovation.

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  • Medieval Barcelona App

Be transported back to Barcelona’s golden age with this Barcelona app, admire the Romanesque and Gothic architecture which dominates the old part of the city. If you are interested in this topic also check our guide to 5 Medieval Villages near Barcelona.

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  • Gaudí’s Barcelona App

This Barcelona app not only gives you practical information about these iconic sights, an architect and interior designer describes them in fascinating detail with music and sound effects.

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Barcelona Apps: Food

  • Barcelona Restaurants App 

Makes choosing a restaurant from the multitude of mouth-watering possibilities easy, listing a selection of the city’s most recommended restaurants near your apartment.

Restaurants_Barcelona.l1

So step into the 21st century and step out of your apartment with these helpful Barcelona apps.

Most Famous Ski Resorts near Barcelona

Winter in Barcelona can be the perfect plan: Architecture, gastronomy, culture, beach and moreover, a day trip or a weekend to Ski!  We´ve put together a list of Ski Resorts near Barcelona within a drive or train. Keep reading to know which are the most famos catalan ski resorts. Time to hit the slopes!

Ski Resorts near Barcelona

  • Baqueira-Beret Ski resort

Baqueira-Beret ski resort is the biggest ski resort in Spain and boasts a wealth of trendy clientele. Set in Vall d’Aran in the Pyrenees and with a whopping altitude of over 120km and 33 ski lifts, it´s well worth the four hour drive from Barcelona. Snowfall here is pretty heavy and consistent throughout the winter months and there is great skiing on offer for all levels, including some eye-popping black runs off the top of the 2516m peak of Tuc Deth Dossau.

Baqueira-Beret has a wide variety of activities to suit your skitour Barcelona needs, such as ski classes or Heli-skiing, alpine skiing, snowboard, telemark, and Nordic. The apre-ski scene here is fab so after an energetic day on the slopes, you can reward yourself with a tipple or two! With an adult day ski pass costing 49 Euro it´s slightly pricier than some of the other resorts in the neighbouring areas but we think it´s well worth splashing out.

baqueira-beret-ski-resort

  • La Molina Ski Resort

Talking about Ski Resorts near Barcelona, If you are looking for something a little closer to Barcelona than a 4 hours ride, we highly recommend the resorts of La Molina (also accessible by train) and Masella. Both resorts are approximately a two hour drive from Barcelona. Spain´s oldest ski destination, La Molina, is the perfect spot for short ski breaks or even a day trip. It has around 67 kilometrers of ski-worthy slopes and also boasts additional activities such as ski Segway. However, if Apre-Ski is your thing, then perhaps this resort isn´t for you. It´s small and offers very few hotels (our favourite is Guitart Hotel La Molina Resort and Spa) but with a ski lift pass at around 40 Euro per day it won´t break the bank.

la-molina-ski-resort-near-barcelona

  • La Masella Ski Resort

A Ski trip from Barcelona could also take you to the giddy heights of La Masella. Much like its neighbour, La Masella isn´t for those wishing to paint the town red after a day on the slopes. So whilst Masella is unlikely to satisfy the needs of party animals, it is easy to get to and offers over 70 kilometres of brilliant slopes. An adult day lift pass in peak season will only set you back 43 Euro, so we think it’s well worth a visit.

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  • Grandvalira Ski Resort

If you are a pro, this is your ski resort: Grandvalira. This resort, which is the biggest Ski area in Andorra, has 110 pistes and an enormous skiable area of 205 kilometres! With peaks in this areas averaging out at 2500, the views won´t fail to disappoint. You can get here by train or car and for the coolest accommodation, head to the nearby villages of Soldeu and El Tarter. An adult day lift pass here costs around 47 Euro.

Grandvalira ski resort

  • Espot Ski Resort

This small ski station in the Lleida Pyrenees mountains is part of SkiPallars (a ski pass for two separate stations). It features 22 ski runs spread across 22.5 Km, 6 lifts, a children’s park and facilities such as snow cannons and is only a 3 1/2 hour drive from Barcelona. There are several packages available, but an adult (beginner) pass starts from 18 Euro.

espot-ski-resort

  • Vall de Núria Ski Resort

Vall de Núria is a charming resort accessible only by a train which departs from Ribes de Freser. The journey itself makes Vall de Núria worth the visit as it covers 12.5Km and climbs a staggering 1,000 meters in around 40 minutes. With 11 pistes catering for a variety of levels as well as a Children´s snow park, and amenities within the surrounding areas, Vall de Núria makes for an ideal ski getaway. There are various price packages available but a railway pass plus ski pass costs upwards of 27 Euro.

vall-de-nuria-ski-resort

So, ski fans, what are you waiting for? Hit the slopes and let’s Ski!

What You Need to Know before You Visit the Basilica Santa Maria del Mar

Santa Maria del Mar, Barcelona, Spain

Creating a vacation itinerary for a trip to Barcelona could be one of the most challenging tasks you’ve ever attempted!  This exotic city is absolutely bursting with so many spectacular sights, restaurants, and activities.  You might have trouble wondering where to start!  One spot you don’t want to miss is the Basilica Santa Maria del Mar.  Thousands of years old, this extraordinary cathedral is filled with wonders.  Take a look at what this historic site has to offer and add it to your vacation itinerary today!

Everything You Need to Know before You Visit the Basilica Santa Maria del Mar

History of the Basilica Santa Maria del Mar

Construction of the Basilica Santa Maria del Mar began in the year 1329.  It was completed in 55 years, which was a surprisingly short amount of time to build a cathedral of such size during this particular time period.  This church was funded almost solely by local residents of its surrounding neighborhood, known today as La Ribera, a community located on the shore that specialized in shipbuilding as well as constant imports and exports.

What to See at the Basilica Santa Maria del Mar

The magnificent architecture of this cathedral is enough to make your jaw drop.  The Basilica Santa Maria del Mar displays the perfect example of distinctive 14th century Catalan Gothic architecture.  In addition to its towering appearance, this beautiful masterpiece is also filled with incredible artwork.  Gaze at the numerous, colorful stained windows that adorn this cathedral in awe.  This intricate pieces are from several different time periods, some of which are originals that were created when the cathedral was first constructed.  You’ll also be able to observe a Gothic structure of the Virgin Mary as well as numerous paintings and priceless relics.

Visiting the Basilica Santa Maria del Mar

This attraction is open from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.  You can also attend Mass here every day at 7:30 p.m.  Guided tours of this breathtaking cathedral are highly recommended.  During a guided tour, you are led up to the rooftops of the church, the rear chapels, then all the way down to its crypts.  You will also be able to learn more about its fascinating history.  Take a look at their website to discover their prices, schedule, and much more.  

If you want to see more of Barcelona’s finest landmarks, visit the Casa Batllo!

Come Stay with Us at bizFlats Vacation Rentals!

Complete your vacation of a lifetime by staying in the best accommodations while you’re visiting some of Barcelona’s finest attractions!  bizFlats Vacation Rentals provides some of the most luxurious apartments, villas, and lofts, all located throughout the most picturesque parts of the city.  Choose from staying in a beautiful spot with views of the beach or right in the heart of the bustling city.  Each property is equipped with the finest furnishings and amenities so you’re bound to feel right at home.  Check our availability today to find the most incredible place to stay during your visit!

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