Year: 2016

Maestros de la Guitarra Features Some of the Best Artists in the World

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Attend Maestros de la Guitarra at Palau de MusicaBarcelona, Spain, has a rich and fascinating culture.  With its innumerable, timeless traditions, this city contains all kinds of unique things to do and see.  If you’re planning a getaway to Barcelona, you might be wondering what to do first.  There are an abundance of stunning, historic buildings and attractions, not to mention the numerous museums honoring the influential figures of the past.  One activity you don’t want to skip while you’re here is attending one of the shows of the Maestros de la Guitarra.  Discover everything you need to know about this popular Barcelona attraction and make your plans to attend today!

Everything You Need to Know about Maestros de la Guitarra

What Is Maestros de la Guitarra?

A grand musical event like you’ve never experienced before, Maestros de la Guitarra produces around 300 amazing concerts per year.  Attend Maestros de la Guitarra and watch as talented dancers and musicians showcase their incredible skills.  Each performer reflects Barcelona’s colorful culture and lifestyle through their songs and dances.  Some have performed all over the world, sharing a bit this city’s vibrant and exotic environment with people in other parts of the globe.  A few highlights of these performers include Grammy winner David Russell, the band Beijing Guitar Duo, Berta Rojas, and countless others.  

Where Is Maestros de la Guitarra?

This music festival holds its numerous concerts in three different venues in Barcelona: Palau de la Musica, Basilica del Pi, and Sant Jaume.  Each of these magnificent venues will take your breath away with their unparalleled architecture and beauty, creating the perfect setting for enjoying a magical night of entertainment in Barcelona.  Experiencing one or more of these concerts is one of the best things to do in Barcelona.  The historic setting and soothing music combine to create a magical evening in Spain.  

When Is Maestros de la Guitarra?

The concerts of Maestros de la Guitarra begin in June and run until the end of October.  You can find their entire schedule online.  Take a look at each show to start choosing which ones you’d like to attend.  You can even purchase your tickets online as well!

Make sure to “Like” the Maestros de la Guitarra Facebook page to receive the latest updates on what’s going on!

Where to Stay during Maestros de la Guitarra

The best way to complete your trip to the incredible city of Barcelona is to stay in the best lodging possible.  After your lovely evening of enjoying Barcelona culture at Maestros de la Guitarra, take some time to unwind by settling down in the finest accommodations in the entire city.  bizFlats Vacation Rentals offers luxurious lofts, villas, cottages, and apartments located throughout the most picturesque parts of this region.  Whether you want to treat yourself to views of the beach or settle down in the heart of the city, we have the perfect spot for you!  We know you’ll love our comfortable furnishings and incredible amenities, so check our availability online right now to book your favorite vacation rental in Barcelona!

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Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring El Born, One of the Best Barcelona Attractions

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Exploring El BornBarcelona has so many attractions to explore, both famous landmarks and hidden gems.  El Born is one spot in particular that you can’t miss while you’re vacationing here.  Learn all about what there is to do in this lovely neighborhood!

Things to Do in El Born, Barcelona

1. Explore the Many El Born Attractions

Take a look at a few favorite attractions in El Born to help you plan the perfect day to this beautiful neighborhood.  

Picasso Museum: Without a doubt one of the most interesting art museums in all of Barcelona, the Picasso Museum in El Born, Barcelona, is definitely worth your time.  Admire priceless works of art while learning more about this famed artist.  

Music Palace: If you’re a music enthusiast, the Music Palace is the perfect place for you.  Let the soothing sounds of a professional orchestra wash over you when you attend a show in this magnificent hall.

Basilica Santa Maria del Mar: One of Barcelona’s oldest and most beautiful cathedrals, Basilica Santa Maria del Mar is a majestic building that will leave you speechless.  The stained glass windows alone are simply stunning.  Take a tour to learn more!

Shopping: You won’t have to search long to find the numerous shops scattered throughout the El Born neighborhood!  These carry some of the finest gifts around, making this the perfect place to buy a souvenir to commemorate your trip.  

2. Eat the Finest Food in One of the Best El Born Restaurants

Dine like a local while you’re visiting the El Born neighborhood!  Here’s some of the best places you should eat.

Petra: The scrumptious food served here is bound to satisfy even the hungriest appetite!  The dishes that Petra prepares are created with the finest local ingredients to guarantee an amazing meal.

Ten’s Tapas Restaurant: This is an award-winning restaurant specializing in a favorite authentic Catalan dish: tapas.  Each of Ten’s Tapas Restaurant’s menu items are tasty and unique, making this an excellent stop during your day of activities in the El Born neighborhood.  

La Carassa: Tucked away in the depths of El Born, this hidden gem offers some truly one-of-a-kind meals in a cozy setting.  La Carassa’s Catalan dishes are inspired the food of France, creating some incredibly delicious results.  

3. Enjoy El Born Nightlife

This area is famous for their thrilling nightlife!  Roam these streets after dark and you’ll hear the lively sounds of music and laughter drifting from every corner.  To find the center of all the excitement, head to the heart of the El Born neighborhood, called the Passeig del Born.  The Cat Bar and Miramelindo are two spots in particular that you have to visit!  

Come Stay with Us at bizFlats Vacation Rentals during Your Getaway to Spain!

After your exciting afternoon of exploring one of Barcelona’s finest attractions, take some time to unwind by staying in the best accommodations possible!  bizFlats Vacation Rentals offers luxurious lofts, villas, cottages, and apartments located throughout the most picturesque parts of town.  Whether you want to treat yourself to views of the beach or settle down in the heart of the city, we have the perfect spot for you!  We know you’ll love our comfortable furnishings and incredible amenities, so check our availability online right now to book your favorite vacation rental in Barcelona!

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You Will Love Exploring the Mercat dels Encants

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Shopping at Mercat dels EncantsIf you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation destination that contains outstanding things to see and do, Barcelona, Spain, is your answer!  Overflowing with iconic landmarks and breathtaking wonders, this city is guaranteed to leave you with wonderful memories.  One attraction you won’t want to miss is the Mercat del Encants, a famous spot in Barcelona for many reasons!  Being the city’s largest and most popular flea market, as well as one of the oldest flea markets in all of Europe, this area is always buzzing with activity.  This market is also called Fira de Bellcaire, which roughly translates to “fair old charms”- and that’s what you’ll find here!  Visitors and locals alike flock to this market to eagerly browse the countless vendor booths, searching for hidden treasure.  With a wide spectrum of goods and trinkets, as well as friendly and helpful locals, you will find yourself spending hours and hours in this neverending selection of amazing items!  Discover everything you need to know about the Mercat dels Encants in Barcelona and start making plans to visit and shop today!

Everything You Need to Know about the Mercat dels Encants

Location and Hours

The address for Mercat dels Encants is C. Dos de Maig, 186.  Keep your eyes peeled for the market’s trademark tall canopy if you need help finding it!  You can visit this flea market on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.   

Things to Do at the Mercat dels Encants

The countless vendors of the Mercat dels Encants offer anything and everything you could ever want- and for reasonable prices!  Whether you’re searching for a new addition to your wardrobe or new decor for your home, it’s all here in this expansive market.  Items that vendors have for sale include furniture, toys, gadgets, decor, antiques, crafts, books, clothing, records, appliances, and much, much more!  This is the best place in Barcelona to find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your getaway to this exotic city.  A wide, expansive area, this flea market is also the site of numerous events and gatherings!  Many different events take place here, such as swing dances and antique auctions.  This place is always a treat to visit!

For more places to go shopping in Barcelona, visit the Encants Vells Flea Market during your vacation as well!

Book Your Dream Vacation Home with bizFlats Vacation Rentals!

No trip is complete without booking a wonderful place to stay. After your exciting day of exploring one of Barcelona’s finest attractions, take some time to unwind by relaxing in the best accommodations possible!  bizFlats Vacation Rentals offers luxurious lofts, villas, cottages, and apartments located throughout the most picturesque parts of town.  Whether you want to treat yourself to views of the beach or settle down in the heart of the city, we have the perfect spot for you!  We know you’ll love our comfortable furnishings and incredible amenities, so check our availability online right now to book your favorite vacation rental in Barcelona!

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

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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!

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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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What You Need to Know about Visiting the Parc de Montjuïc

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MontjuicBarcelona is an extraordinary city overflowing with all kinds of sights and attractions.  Due to its rich and fascinating history, this destination is filled with various museums, galleries, and other historic sites that were created to honor this city’s past stories and leaders.  One of the best places to explore Barcelona’s history and culture is the Parc de Montjuïc, an attraction bursting with things to do and see.  Once a ceremonial place of the Romans, this mountain is now a beloved recreational area.  Learn about all the activities you can enjoy here and start making plans to visit during your vacation to Barcelona!  

4 of the Best Things to Do at the Parc de Montjuïc

1. Ride the Parc de Montjuïc Cable Car

One of the best parts of visiting Parc de Montjuïc is the way you get there!  This mountain is accessed by way of the Montjuïc cable car, which carries you higher and higher above Barcelona, providing breathtaking views of the dramatic scenery spread below.  

2. Explore the Numerous Museums and Attractions

Many museums can be found within the magnificent Palau Nacional, a spacious pavilion center.  One of the best museums found in here is the Catalan National Art Museum, which contains countless, valuable works of art, spanning a wide spectrum of styles and time periods.  The famous Joan Miró Foundation is another incredible museum located in the Parc de Montjuïc.  You can also observe countless monuments that resulted from the 1992 Olympic Games that were held here, like the Calatrava Tower, the Olympic Stadium of Barcelona, and the Sant Jordi Palace.  

3. See the Parc de Montjuïc Castle

The Montjuïc Castle is a timeless gem within Barcelona.  Standing strong since 1640, this forbidding structure was once a military fortress and served as a defense point in the War of the Spanish Succession.  Today, you can take a guided tour of this castle as well as receive some of the most stunning views of the surrounding scenery.  

4. Other Attractions in Parc de Montjuïc

You can spend hours and hours within the Parc de Montjuïc and still not see everything it has to offer!  One highlight you won’t want to skip is the Magic Fountain.  Located within the Palau Nacional, this is one of the most photographed icons of Barcelona.  The Montjuïc Gardens are another gorgeous feature, as well as the Poble Espanyol, a historic Spanish village.  

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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 short term rental in Barcelona!

National Day of Catalonia Celebrations

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Enjoy the festivities at the National Day of CataloniaEvery year on September 11th, Catalonians celebrate their national holiday throughout the region’s public spaces. With many of the businesses closed for the day, the National Day of Catalonia gives locals and visitors alike the chance to step back from daily routines to celebrate and commemorate. If you come to participate in this annual event you’ll witness the unique pride and patriotism found among this group of happy and passionate citizens who fought for their independence back on September 11th in 1714.

The holiday is celebrated by memorializing the Catalan heroes who fought in the War of the Spanish Succession, as well as many public and private parties throughout Barcelona and all of Catalonia. You may even catch a political demonstration by some of the still-fervent separatists, get to join in one of the many communal paella meals that are often taking place right out in the street, or catch a famous human pyramid in the making.

History of the National Day of Catalonia

Also known simply as La Diada, the National Day of Catalonia recognizes the day of September 11, 1714, towards the end of the War of the Spanish Succession, which marked the beginning of a long period in which French rule would take over the autonomous Spanish region of Catalonia. The government of Catalonia wasn’t restored until December 31, 1979, and September 11th was proclaimed as the Day of Catalonia to commemorate the painful memories of when the region lost its liberties. The National Day of Catalonia became an official holiday on September 11th, 1980.

National Day of Catalonia Events

  • Ofrena floral al Monument de Rafael Casanova – Taking place at 9 am on La Diada each year is the laying of commemoration wreaths by Catalonia’s leaders such as current and former presidents, the Mayor of Barcelona, and other dignitaries from the area. It takes place at the Rafael Casanova Monument created by Rossend Nobas in 1886, a tomb at Iglesia de Sant Baldiri de Sant Boi. The wreaths are meant to pay tribute to all the Catalonian’s who died in the great War of the Spanish Succession.
  • Festa par la Llibertat – This outdoor freedom festival at the Arc de Triomf celebrates Catalan culture and the movement for the region’s independence from Spain. If you’re looking for a great time outside and some lovely music, concerts begin at 7 pm and continue into the night.
  • Government Open Houses – A few of the beautiful historic government buildings open their doors to the public as a way to celebrate the National Day of Catalonia each year. This year find both the Catalan Parliament at Parc de la Ciutadella open from 10 am to 7 pm, and the Palau de la Generalitat at the Plaça de Sant Jaume from 10 am to 5 pm.

The National Day of Catalonia is an exciting time to visit Barcelona this year. September 11th, 2016, falls on a Sunday, meaning that La Diada is the perfect opportunity to take a weekend away this fall. Barcelona is lovely in September as the temperatures start cooling down, and the busy month of August slips away. If you have yet to witness this epic street party and celebration of Catalan patriotism, make sure it’s on your list!

Photo by JackF / Thinkstock

 

National Day of Catalonia

Why Park Güell is One of the Most Beautiful Parks in Barcelona

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Exploring Park Guell is one of the best things to do in BarcelonaAlthough Barcelona has countless extraordinary attractions, Park Güell is one you absolutely can’t skip!  Learn all about this beautiful treasure and buy your tickets today.  

All the Park Güell Information You Need to Know before You Visit

Park Güell History

This colorful attraction was originally commissioned by Eusebi Güell, who desired an upscale estate for the aristocrat of Barcelona to live in.  The famous Antoni Gaudí (the architectural genius behind other iconic Barcelona landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo) was chosen to design this area; he began its construction in 1900.  Güell had spotted a beautiful window display that Gaudí had created one day and decided at once that he was the right man for the job.  Gaudí used his trademark style of bright colors and swirling patterns to establish a private estate that was truly unlike anything else around.  He built numerous villas for the wealthy figures in the area and even moved in himself a few years later.  However, this area lacked one essential thing: a good transportation system.  Due to this, people started abandoning their homes here a few years later and the area transformed into a private garden for public events.  It later became a public tourist attraction in 1960s so everyone could appreciate this magnificent place.

What to Do at Park Güell

You can spend hours and hours here at Park Güell.  One of the main reasons why it draws so many visitors is the Gaudí House Museum located here.  This building, which was once Gaudí’s home, contains countless artifacts and memorabilia that offer incredible insight into the life of this extraordinary and revolutionary architect.  You can also participate in guided tours of the other buildings in this park to learn more about Gaudí, the Modernisme movement, the people who loved here, and other interesting Park Güell facts.

Park Güell Hours and Location

The Park Güell hours vary from season to season, so check online before you visit so you know when to go.  This park is located off Carrer d’Olot in Barcelona.  Metros, buses, and taxis are all able to access this spot; you can also arrange for a coach to pick you up if you’re arriving with a group.

How to Purchase Park Güell Tickets

You can purchase your tickets at the Park Güell ticket office or you can conveniently buy them online.  Ticket purchases can be made up to three months before your visit, so start planning ahead and buy your tickets today to skip the lines!

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 short term rental in Barcelona to stay during your visit!

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Why the Turó de la Rovira is So Amazing

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See views of Barcelona from the turó de la roviraBarcelona is a beautiful city steeped in history and culture.  You’ll find all kinds of secret treasures hidden throughout this remarkable destination, from bars on the beach to ancient historic sites.  One of the best spots you need to visit in Barcelona is the Turó de la Rovira.  Offering the best views in the entire area, this place also represents a significant point in Barcelona history.  Discover everything there is to know about this attraction off the beaten road and add it to your itinerary today! Read more →