Don’t Miss La Mercè Barcelona

July 23, 2015June 13, 2020bizFlats

The end of summer in Catalonia is a time for celebration, which has been the tradition since La Mercè Barcelona began back in 1902. Known worldwide as the city’s largest street party, people travel from far and wide to partake in the five days of festivities designed to celebrate Catalan culture and the cooler days ahead. If you have yet to experience the events and energy at La Mercè Barcelona, perhaps this will be your year! Though the official dates have yet to be announced, you can be sure that it will take place around September 24th as it does every year.

La Mercè Barcelona History

Named for the patron saint of Barcelona, Mercè who, as legend has it, blessed the city on many occasions to protect it from wars and plagues, is the cause for celebration when the end of September rolls around each year. At the turn of the century, when pope Pius IX declared the Virgin of Mercy the patron saint of Barcelona, he had many festivities planned in her honor, which were held throughout the city. In 1902 those festivities were organized into an official festival, which has been celebrated each year since, much to the excitement of both Catalonians and the many visitors to our beautiful city.

Top La Mercè Events

Castellers – While waltzing down the street during La Mercè Barcelona you may stumble upon a human tower reaching stories above ground! Don’t be alarmed, the Castellers, as they’re called, are well trained performers who aim to show the Catalonia spirit of unity through this performance art. It is a tradition that has been around as long as the festival itself. Head to the Gothic Quarter during the festivities to Plaça de Sant Jaume and you’ll surely catch one of their memorable towers.
Correfoc – Known as the procession of the fire-breathing dragons, this event takes place along the Via Laietana as dusk sets in. The dragons, who do indeed breath fire in the form of fireworks and sparklers, are accompanied by scary looking devils and mythical monsters marching through the streets and give everyone a little frightful excitement. If you do plan on attending this wonderful spectacle be sure to wear clothing that you won’t mind being damaged by sparks, as well as glasses or a hat to protect your eyes.
Gigantes – Don’t miss this chance to see the Catalan monarchy of old march through the streets. No, not real royalty, but giant costumed performers who dance to the accompaniment of drummers and flutists.

If you have yet to experience the wonders of La Mercè Barcelona it is nothing short of a once in a lifetime experience. Not only will you get a taste for authentic Catalan culture with some of its rich history mixed in, but September is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful times of year to visit Barcelona. The summer heat is subsiding, while that temperate Mediterranean fall sweeps in for a few months of paradise. This trip could really be a dream come true!

August in Barcelona

July 10, 2015June 13, 2020bizFlats

August in Barcelona is one of the busiest months of the year ensuring many exciting activities, beautifully warm Mediterranean weather, and visitors from around the world with whom to mingle. Between the beaches, festivals, and arts to enjoy, the end of the summer ends up being an ideal time to visit this Spanish city and take in the sites and culture, be it on a European family adventure, or the backpacking trip of a lifetime.

Though Catalonians have long been known to take month long vacations during the month of August, visitors can be sure to find most of the businesses open. About 10 percent of the shops and restaurants will be closed as various families head out of town during the warmest and busiest month of the year – a tradition that undoubtedly adds to the charming and hospitable nature of the city’s many family-owned businesses.

Here are some of the things to look forward to during August in Barcelona this year.

Festa Major de Sants
This little-known festival takes place throughout the Sants neighborhood, featuring unique cultural attractions that celebrate the history of the families who settled this neighborhood centuries ago.
San Miguel Mas i Mas Festival
This summer concert series takes place throughout the city at different venues, featuring many Latin musicians along with a mix of many other genres. Starting in July and continuing through early September, San Miguel Mas i Mas concerts make for a great evening out on the town.
Gandules
Throughout the month of August on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the Centre de Cultura Contemporania de Barcelona, a series of films are screened on the rooftop patio. This great space has both a restaurant and bar and the movie nights tend to fill up quickly so be sure to get there early for a seat.
Circuit Festival
The Circuit Festival is one of the largest LGBT gatherings in all of Europe. It offers 12 days of incredible parties and events throughout the city including a day at the water park, beach parties, documentary film festivals and tons of sporty fun like longboard outings and yoga sessions. Thousands of people from around the world come out for this wonderful celebration of LGBT culture!
Festa Major de Gracia
This neighborhood festival is one of the oldest in the city, with residents working year round to plan a fun festival in which locals and visitors alike come to appreciate age old Catalan culture. The main attraction are the streets and shops that get transformed by residents in a decorating competition that will shock you as you enter imaginary worlds like outer space and Jurassic Park. Be sure to check out Festa Major de Gracia in the evening to see these transformed worlds all lit up.

August in Barcelona is bound to be a great time, whether you’re looking for a relaxing time or a great party. While the end of the summer is typically a busy time for tourists, it also ensures that there is plenty to do for all interests. If you’re considering a European vacation this summer, make it August in Barcelona!

Circuit Festival Barcelona Will be Here Soon!

July 1, 2015June 13, 2020bizFlats

One of the city’s biggest international festivals is right around the corner, much to the anticipation of the LGBT community worldwide. From August 5th through the 16th, people from around the world to congregate in our beautiful city and celebrate a facet of culture that has long been in need of more diverse gathering options. Circuit Festival Barcelona answers that need offering a 12-day holiday of enjoying the sunshine on the beach, around the city, and the clubbing scene at night. Barcelona is the ideal international meeting point for this gathering of the LGBT community, and Circuit promises to be a safe and fun upbuilding experience!

Circuit Festival Barcelona Schedule

BIG OPENING @ BLOC CLUB – 5 AUGUST
WE SEX SHOP @ THE ONE CLUB – 6 AUGUST
RAPIDO @ UNDER CLUB – 7 AUGUST
MATINÉE POOL PARTY @ COMPLEX ESPORTIU L’HOSPITALET NORD – 8 AUGUST
MATINÉE KLUBBERDOME FEAT OFFER NISSIM @ COMPLEX ESPORTIU L’HOSPITALET NORD – 8 AUGUSTP
PACK POOL PARTY & KLUBBERDOME @ COMPLEX ESPORTIU L’HOSPITALET NORD – 8 AUGUST
THE BEACH PARTY @ COMPLEX ESPORTIU L’HOSPITALET NORD – 9 AUGUST
FOREVER TEL AVIV @ RAZZMATAZZ – 9 AUGUST
BEYOND @ UNDER CLUB – 10 AUGUST
THE WATER PARK DAY @ L’ILLA FANTASIA – 11 AUGUST
THE WATER PARK NIGHT @ L’ILLA FANTASIA – 11 AUGUST
PACK WATER PARK DAY & NIGHT @ L’ILLA FANTASIA – 11 AUGUST
MEGAWOOF @ UNDER CLUB – 12 AUGUST
WE CLEOPATRA POOL DAY @ LA BASSA – 13 AUGUST
MATINÉE PERVERT @ GLOOBAL CLUB – 13 AUGUST
PACK WE POOL DAY & MATINÉE PERVERT @ LA BASSA & GLOOBAL CLUB – 13 AUGUST
MATINÉE EASY RIDERS @ UP&DOWN – 14 AUGUST
PAPA MAIN POOL PARTY @ COMPLEX ESPORTIU L’HOSPITALET NORD – 15 AUGUST
MAIN PARTY @ COMPLEX ESPORTIU L’HOSPITALET NORD – 15 AUGUST
PACK PAPA POOL & MAIN PARTY @ COMPLEX ESPORTIU HOSPITALET NORD – 15 AUGUST
LA LECHE! @ EIBISÍ CLUB (TERRACE) – 16 AUGUST
THE WEEK SAFADO @ EIBISÍ CLUB – 16 AUGUST
PACK LA LECHE! & THE WEEK SAFADO @ EIBISÍ CLUB – 16 AUGUST

Tickets

Circuit Festival Barcelona tickets can be purchased ahead of time either for individual events or for the entire event. Single event tickets range from 25€ to 75€. The All Access Pass will give you free priority access to all of the events at a 50 percent discounted rate. If you are looking forward to attending most of the events, this is a great option for you. The Pass also comes with a 10 percent discount at all the local shops that collaborate with the festival, four free entries at one of the DIR GYMS Barcelona, as well as festival swag!

Circuit’s Waterpark

One of the festival’s most famous and fun events is the Water Park Day, which is known to be the biggest open-air gay part in all of Europe. This fun day in the sun will take place on August 11th starting at 10 am and going all night! Enjoy water games and rides, live music and performances, and thousands of people gathering to celebrate the LGBT community!

Circuit Festival Barcelona is one of the events of the year in the city, and a great reason to finally take that trip to this ideal Spanish destination. Come enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere, and the city’s rich modern culture!

Tour Barcelona Camp Nou: The world’s third largest football stadium

June 24, 2015June 2, 2020bizFlats

If you’ve ever happened upon Barcelona during a football match then you may have been surprised to see the red and blue streets filled with ecstatic fans cheering as if their very lives depended on victory. Catalonians couldn’t be prouder of their all-star team now sporting football heroes such as Lionel Messi, an idol of many Spanish youths, and soccer players around the world. Barcelona Camp Nou was the team’s very first stadium in its inaugural year of 1957, carrying some of the team’s richest history in its bleachers as well as on the turf. Soccer fan or not, taking a tour of Barcelona Camp Nou will provide a lot of insight into the heart of Catalan culture.

About Barcelona Camp Nou

Constructed between the years of 1955 and 1957 using mainly concrete and iron, the project cost was a staggering 288 million pesetas, meaning the team would spend its first years of existence in great debt. Nevertheless, it was a point of great pride among the team members and coaches, as well as the expanding local fan base that was quickly growing beyond what could be accommodated at the stadium. With a capacity of 99,354 it is now the biggest stadium in all of Europe, but still the crowds overflow into the streets and pubs of the city. When it initially opened it held just over 93,000, which was increased to 120,000 in 1982 to host the FIFA World Cup. New regulations forced the stadium to reduce its capacity in the late 1990s.

There are many notable facilities within the stadium that are cause for its official five-star status. On the tour, you will get to see all of them including the chapel, the presidential box, VIP lounge, Press and television rooms, veteran players area, and the FC Barcelona club museum.

Tour Camp Nou

Touring Barcelona Camp Nou has become one of the most popular things to do upon visiting the city and is a chance for visitors to get a behind the scenes experience of this Spanish landmark. Check out their impressive trophy room literally filled with accolades; step foot on the actual grass of FC Barcelona, and check out the coveted Messi Space covered with the Argentinian superstar’s accomplishments. You can also visit the press room and visitors’ dressing room, and see the players’ tunnel and commentary boxes. There are truly endless places throughout the stadium to explore that your general admission ticket would not allow you to see, which makes tours all the more appealing to real sports fans.

If you’ve growing up playing football then a visit to Barcelona Camp Nou, whether for a tour or a match, will be a high point in your romance with the sport. There are few places as crazed over this game than Spain, and you’ll be left without any doubts about what committed fans actually look like. It is ideal to see this place both empty and quiet where you can just appreciate its legacy, and yet bustling and crazed during game time so you can witness what it was built for.

If you’re planning a trip to the city, be sure to look into these short-term rentals that will make the perfect spot for your pre or post game party!

A Must See: The Pablo Picasso Museum Barcelona

June 9, 2015June 2, 2020bizFlats

Barcelona is a city as rich in culture as it is in beauty, making it one of the best places to visit in all of Europe. Among the city’s many cultural attractions is the famous Pablo Picasso Museum Barcelona, housing a sizeable collection of the Spanish artist’s lifeworks. If you’re an art enthusiast or at all interested in the life and works of Picasso, this museum is central to understanding his career and the extensiveness of his talent. Located on the Carrer de Montcada, the city’s most important stretch of mediaeval architecture, the Pablo Picasso Museum Barcelona building is a site to see in itself.

About the Pablo Picasso Museum Barcelona

The museum is a key to understanding Picasso’s coming of age as an artist, and in that it deeply reflects his relationship to Barcelona itself where he spent many years of his youth and adolescence. Housing over 4,000 of his works in many different mediums from painting and drawing to printmaking, the collection is exhaustive up until his well-known Blue Period, and depicts his evolution into the years when his work became well known around the world. The museum is housed in five large townhouses, or palaces, that were built within the 13th to the 15th centuries. These buildings represent the Catalan civic gothic style that is popular within the area’s most historic architecture.

Visiting the Museum

There are many different ways to explore the museum. You can opt for an audio tour that is self guided and allows you to learn more about the pieces you are most interested in, or for a more traditional guided tour given by a knowledgeable docent whose passion and education in Picasso’s work will be lavished on you. Tours are available of both the permanent collections and temporary exhibits.

Picasso – Dali

A popular exhibit currently on display at the Pablo Picasso Museum Barcelona features the works of Picasso and Salvador Dali side-by-side. These two important 20th Century artists have long been known for having opposing political views, but a deeper relationship between them has recently been more exposed to the public, and the remarkable impact they had on one another personally is displayed in this exhibit of their similar works. Among the paintings, drawings, etchings and sculptures by both Picasso and Dali, you’ll find documents providing contexts to their work through which you’ll get to see how connected they truly were. There are many different ways to experience this exhibit including a roundtable discussion with experts in these works, guided tours, a reading club and family workshops that are offered.

The museum also takes part in many city-wide festivals such as the LOOP Festival, and will even hosts concerts during the upcoming Symphonic Festival. There are often special events happening, like free nights at the museum and other family oriented ways to enjoy this wonderful Barcelona attraction. Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast or just someone who enjoys learning about culture through the lens of famous artists, you don’t want to miss a chance to explore this wonderful haven of artifacts.

Be sure to look into these short term rentals located in the Gothic Quarter near the Pablo Picasso Museum Barcelona!

Where to See Spectacular Flamenco Shows in Barcelona

June 2, 2015bizFlats

Barcelona is a city born of tradition, and Flamenco is one of the most beautiful artifacts of the fiery Spanish culture that remains a celebrated aspect of the city today. Among the aspects of nightlife to enjoy are the numerous Flamenco shows in Barcelona. Whether you’re looking for a simple show or for a whole evening out including dinner and drinks, you’ll find it somewhere around the city any night of the week. This is a great way to experience traditional food and dance during tapas hour before the night clubs get busy and the famous Barcelona late night parties begin.

Here are a few of the Flamenco shows in Barcelona to look into while planning a night out in this unforgettable city.

El Tablao de Carmen

This classic Flamenco show at Poble Espanyol de Montjuïc celebrates the tradition of the country’s most famous performer, Carmen Amaya, who was much loved by her country and even Hollywood legends like Orson Welles, Fred Astaire, and Charlie Chaplain. From Tuesday to Sunday there are two shows every evening at 7 and 9:30, both with dinner available. These shows are known for their artistic integrity with numerous talented performers from around the country including guitarists, dancers, and percussionists. If you’re heading up the mountain, El Tablao de Carmen is a great thing to enjoy while there.

Retaurante Nervion

Featuring two-hour shows every Thursday and Friday evening at 8pm at 10pm, guests buy tickets either for the show and a drink or the show and dinner. The meal is three courses of classic Catalan dishes like paella, Iberian baked ribs, and Catalan cream, all accompanied by a bottle of Rioja wine. If you opt simply for the drink ticket, you will get your second drink at a reduced price, making this the perfect cocktail hour for a night out in the Gothic Quarter.

Palacio del Flamenco

For another of the great flamenco shows in Barcelona head to Palacio del Flamenco in Eixample. With three dinner-and-a-show performances every evening, the shows offer a beautiful combination of traditional flamenco and classical dance. These are more than just dancing but promise an inventive interpretation of Spain’s cultural history. The meal is also a cultural experience in classic Spanish tapas. If you’re interested in learning more about this mysterious and beautiful style of dance, you can also sign up for Flamenco lessons at the Palacio.

There are many opportunities to witness different versions of flamenco shows in Barcelona, which is just one of the great things to do in the city to experience its unique culture and the beauty of its citizens.

If you’re planning a trip to this Mediterranean destination, be it for work or pleasure, be sure to look into these affordable short term rentals that can be found all around the city. Whether you need accommodations for yourself or for an entire family or group of friends or coworkers, you’ll find a plethora of places to stay that are luxurious, charming, and centrally located. There’s no better way to experience Barcelona then from your very own flat.

Where to Rent a Flat in Barcelona

May 27, 2015August 6, 2020bizFlats

If you haven’t already been to the breathtakingly beautiful city of Barcelona, then consider this a call to action! As the largest city on the Mediterranean coast, Barcelona has both centuries of history that date back even to the Medieval Ages, as well as the qualities of an exotic beach destination you find all around this ocean. It is one of the largest European metropolises and is caught between the Serra de Collserola mountain range and the turquoise waters of the sea. Between cultural attractions like Montserrat, the Picasso Museum, and exploring the waters and mountains that surround this urban haven, Barcelona is one of the most ideal locations for a vacation, whether for a romantic getaway or a family retreat.

One of the things that makes this city so great to visit is the numerous opportunities to rent a flat in Barcelona at an affordable price for as long or as short a time as you’re looking for. Our bizFlats can be found in various sizes and neighborhoods, offering visitors diverse options when choosing their home away from home in this big city.

Here are some places you can Rent a flat in Barcelona.

The Gothic Quarter

Bohemia 2 is a luxurious modern penthouse located on Plaça Reial and can sleep up to 4 people. Between the fully equipped kitchen and the large living space wanting of relaxing in front of the fireplace, you won’t want to leave this beautiful flat.

Le Palais I is a flat available for monthly bookings. The modernist decor is sporting its original antique ceilings with period furniture to match and leaves guests feeling as if they are going back in time to the unique days of the modern era European aristocracy. Just a three-minute walk from La Rambla, its three double rooms with private doors to the balcony can accommodate up to seven guests in an ideal location.

Eixample

Livingstone is an African-themed apartment located right next to the famous Sant Antoni marketplace designed by Antoni Rovira i Trias, which was finished in 1882. It has two double bedrooms, which can accommodate up to 4 guests, each with a private bath. This apartment is known for having loads of natural light and a generally relaxing feeling, making it the perfect place to kick back after a day of exploring the city.

Dandi is the ultimate aristocratic flat, sporting charm and flare simultaneously for an exquisite and comfortable urban retreat. With three large private bedrooms, this flat sleeps up to six people and has two full baths. With a spacious kitchen for cooking Spanish delicacies, a master suite that is the epitome of serenity, and a just a block away from Passeig de Gràcia, this apartment is one of the city’s most desireable.

This is just a glimpse into all the great options you’ll find to rent a flat in Barcelona. There are everything from large places on the beach, to economy flats in the center of town. The bizFlats company offers some of the best short term rental options throughout the city and are known for both their excellent customer service, as well as their affordable prices.

Spend a Day at the Beautiful Parks in Barcelona

May 19, 2015June 3, 2020bizFlats

Squares and parks in Barcelona have long been a part of its way of life, especially since the 1980s when the city decided to give precedence to urban green space rebuilding projects to ensure that not only were their parks throughout the city, but that they were beautiful places. There are now many beautiful parks in Barcelona that are engrained in the way of life and are themselves attractions. Whether you’re looking to witness architectural wonders, unique wildlife, or just sit down and play a game of chess or read a good book, the parks throughout this busy city are the best places to find some serenity amidst the busy metropolitan life.

Here are some of the best parks in Barcelona worth exploring while visiting the city.

Park Güell

Among the most famous and historic parks in the city, Park Güell is both an urban green space, as well as a monument to Barcelona’s most celebrated modern architect, Antoni Gaudi. Amidst the natural landscape, you will find a forest of shocking and inspiring masterpieces. From the main entrance to the market and everything in between, Gaudi certainly succeeded in his mission to build a garden city.

Parc de la Ciutadella

The city’s greenest park, la Ciutadella is the perfect place to relax in nature either taking a long walk, picnicking along the shores of the lake or taking a row boat out exploring its perimeters. Also home to many of the city’s most popular sites, one could easily spend a day exploring this beautiful outdoor haven while taking breaks to see the zoo, the Catalan Parliament, or the Museu d’Art Modern.

Jardí Botànic

Barcelona’s botanical gardens are breathtakingly beautiful, boasting the plant life of six different Mediterranean climates, as well as that of the Canary Islands. Situated between the freight port and the Olympic stadium, the garden’s lush landscape is in perfect contrast to its urban setting, making it among the most interesting parks in the city. Aimed at the conservation of rare plant species, you’ll be sure to see some of nature’s most unusual specimens right here in the city.

Parc de Joan Miró

This park is named for the artist Joan Miró whose famous Dona i Ocell sculpture is on display in the southern end. An impressionist piece depicting a woman and bird, it is meant to be lingered over, as well as the 30 smaller sculptures throughout the park that give visitors a wonderful feel for Miró’s work and style. The park is also home to the city’s former slaughterhouse, which is another interesting site to explore. In the shade of the palm and pine trees scattered throughout the area, Catalonians can often be found playing a round of bowls or chess, keeping cool and occupied on the warm Mediterranean afternoons.

The parks in Barcelona are some of the best places you can enjoy the city’s history, as well as get an understanding of its easy going culture. Whether you’re looking for insight into its interesting architecture or simply to relax with a bottle of wine while people watching, you’ll love the experience. These Barcelona short term rentals are all near one or other of the city’s parks, making for an easy habit of daily visits.

bizFlats | BCN Confidential

Year: 2015