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.

la_masella_estacio_esqui

  • 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!

Barcelona at Christmas: Must see events and must do activities

Whether you´re simply passing through Barcelona in December or planning a more extended stay, we´ve compiled a list of unmissable events to mark the festive season. Keep reading, there are several things to do in Barcelona at Christmas.

Barcelona at Christmas: Must See events and must do activities

  • The Nativity Scene, Plaça de Sant Jaume

Every December Plaça de Sant Jaume comes alive with a giant nativity scene (Pessebre). Whilst all the traditional characters are represented (as well as Catalunya´s traditional Caganer or pooing man), they appear in different guises with the exception of the three kings. The nativity scene takes on a different theme each year and this year sees a more modern twist to the traditional setting with nine giant globes.

nativity-scene-barcelona

  • Christmas Markets in Barcelona

The Christmas market on Avinguda de la Cathedral, known locally as the Fira de Santa Llúcia, is another Barcelona must see at Christmas. It runs from 25th November until 23rd December, and, located in the heart of the Gothic quarter, offers the perfect setting to soak up the festive atmosphere. Here you can get your hands on some Catalan souvenirs such as él caganer (pooing man to go in the Nativity scene) or El Tió de Nadal (present-pooing log). However, if you prefer to pick up your Christmas gifts in a more intimate setting, make your way to smaller markets such as the Sagrada Familia market, The Three Kings Fair on Gran Via or the neighbourhood markets of Sants and Pedrables.

christmas-markets-in-barcelona

 

  • Xocolata amb Xurros in Barcelona

When thinking about chocolate with churros, it´s impossible not to think about the sweetest street in the city, Carrer de Petritxol, next to Plaça del Pi in the Gothic quarter. There you will find the best chocolatiers in the city such as La Dulcinea and La Pallaresa.

chocolate-with-churros-barcelona

  • The Kings Parade, January 5th

The Kings Parade (La Cavalgada de Reis) is a procession where the three kings arrive in Barcelona on their impressive floats with their royal pages. They parade around the whole city handing out thousands of sweets from 18:00-21:00 before continuing their night´s work of delivering presents to children across the world. On this day, children go to bed early in the hope of waking up to find the presents they had asked for in a letter to the kings. According to tradition, children who have behaved badly during the year will receive coal.

the-kings-parade-barcelona

  • Music and More

For a more relaxed way to get into the Christmas spirit, head to Palau de Musica, Liceu Opera House and Cathedral de Santa Maria del Mar for a variety of Christmas concerts. For those visitors with younger children, Poble Espanyol is packed with family-friendly events throughout December.

So, be sure not to miss out on these Barcelona must see Christmas events, there are loads of things to do in Barcelona at Christmas, and remember, we have several apartments in Barcelona that will make your holidays unforgettable, take a look!

 

 

 

 

 

5 ideas to celebrate Halloween in Barcelona

Fans of ghosts, ghouls and ghastly guises wishing to celebrate Halloween in Barcelona are in for a treat. We´ve scoured Catalonia´s capital for the best spooky celebrations on offer and have scouted out some great fancy dress shops to ensure that you are dressed to impress.

Whilst not traditionally a Catalan tradition, Halloween is now celebrated in Barcelona in the days leading up to 31st October. The celebrations also extend to 1st November for All Saint´s Day where you can also enjoy La Castanyada (chestnut festival) which sees people gather together to remember the deceased and eat seasonal fruits, such as chestnuts.

With so much on offer, choosing where to celebrate Halloween in Barcelona can present quite a challenge. Read on for our selection of the best events on offer.

5 ideas to celebrate Halloween in Barcelona

  • Phenomena Cinema

Film fans wanting to spook themselves on the creepiest night of the year should head to cinema Phenomena for a Halloween-themed movie marathon on October 31st. Films such as Child’s Play and Pet Sematary will be shown in original version with Spanish subtitles.

Phenomena Cinema Barcelona

  • Halloween in Port Aventura

For a more action-packed Halloween, visit Port Aventura theme park for the usual thrill-seeking rides as well as special Halloween-themed parades, performances, a haunted lake and creepy forest.

Halloween Port Aventura

  • Enigmatium Experience

From 29-31 October, Enigmatium restaurant offers a truly spooky dining experience with mysterious cocktails and Halloween-themed dishes. Diners will also experience live, interactive theatre shows.  Visitors with children should visit the family-friendly events on 30th October and 1st November. Booking is recommended.

Enigmatiu Halloween

  • Poble Espanyol for grown ups and for kids:

Dance the night away in Poble Espanyol on 29th October at “Un Brunch terrorifico”. The attraction, which comprises architectural styles from across Spain, will play host to DJs and musicians for a night of Halloween-themed fun from 16:00-04:00.

On Saturday it’s time for families to celebrate Halloween. There will be workshops, activities outfit contests and much more.

halloween_poble_espanyol_2016

  • Razzloween:

Party fans could visit Razzmatazz, a very famous disco in the city, for Razzlloween on 31st October from 1am onwards.

Halloween Razzmatazz

  • Where to hire/buy your outfits in Barcelona:

No Halloween celebration would be complete without a creepy costume. Famous costume hire store Menkes (Gran Via de Les Corts Catalanes, 642) has a brilliant range of costumes to hire to get you in the party mood. Atuendo for Fun (Roger de Llúria,25) is similarly equipped with a variety of hire costumes to suit your party needs.

For those wishing to purchase an outfit, we recommend visiting La Bolsera (Xuclà,15)  but if you are simply looking to accessorise, head to one of the Claire’s stores at various locations across the city.

Once you’ve got your hands on the perfect outfit and picked your party destination, we are sure that Halloween in Barcelona won’t disappoint!

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s Why You Will Love Attending Shows at the Teatro Liceu in Barcelona

Attend a show at Teatro LiceuBarcelona is known for its grand multitude of wonderful features: delectable cuisine, beautiful beaches, and unique architecture are just a few examples.  However, one quality of Barcelona that stands out from the rest is the outstanding entertainment!  This city hosts some of the finest shows around, from spellbinding concerts to exciting flamenco dancing.  One incredible venue here is the historic Teatro Liceu.  Discover why this is one of the best performance venues in Barcelona and make plans to spend an evening there today.  

Everything You Need to Know before Attending a Show at Teatro Liceu

Where is the Teatro Liceu Located?

This attraction is located on La Rambla in Barcelona.  You’ll be able to spot this building right away; its classic architecture and towering appearance make it a distinguishable icon in Barcelona.  

What is the History of the Teatro Liceu?

The origins of this magnificent opera house can be traced all the way back to the year 1837, when an organization of liberal, armed citizen militias (known as the Sociedad Dramática de Aficionados, or Society of Theatre-Lovers) founded a music conservatory.  Created as a result of Barcelona’s rapidly growing population and economy, the opera house first opened its doors to the public in 1847.  With its colossal size and 4,000 seats, it was the largest opera house in all of Europe.  Today, you can take guided tours of this venue to admire its beauty and characteristics.  

What Kind of Shows are Performed at the Teatro Liceu?

Being an opera house, this venue primarily features a wide variety of different operas, such as Macbeth and Elektra.  Some of the most famed opera singers have performed in this very venue, including Tebaldi, Domingo, and Pavarotti.  However, operas are not the only Gran Teatre del Liceu events you can attend in Barcelona.  This opera house also hosts concerts, symphonies, ballets, and much more.  Stay up-to-date with the Liceu Opera House calendar so you don’t miss your favorite show while you’re visiting Barcelona.  

How Do I Purchase Tickets for a Show at the Teatro Liceu?

There are a few different options for buying your tickets to the Gran Teatre Del Liceu events!  You can buy them online, through their mobile app, at their box office, or by calling them at 902 787 397.  Take a look at their box office hours before you go!

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Palau de la Musica is One of the Best Concert Venues in Barcelona

Orchestra performance at the Palau de la MusicaMusic enthusiasts should consider the city of Barcelona, Spain, as their next vacation destination.  This gorgeous and exciting area offers endless opportunities for entertainment, including numerous musical and dancing performances.  If you’re visiting this city and you’re looking for the best concerts, you need to see what’s going on at Palau de la Musica in Barcelona.  One of the finest event venues around, this magnificent building is the perfect setting for an unforgettable night in Barcelona.  Learn everything you need to know about Palau de la Musica and check their events schedule today!

History of Palau de la Musica in Barcelona

This eye-catching attraction was built in the early 1900s by the beloved architect, Lluís Domènech i Montaner.  Palau de la Musica Catalana was constructed with the purpose of fostering musical appreciation to the community by providing them with the finest entertainment possible.  You’ll spot this gorgeous structure right away due to its iconic, colorful stained-glass windows and towering columns.  You’ll find it easily, as it’s located nearby to popular Barcelona attractions like Las Ramblas and the Barcelona Cathedral.  

Events at the Palau de Musica in Barcelona

Visitors and locals alike flock to Palau de la Musica in Barcelona from near and far to experience the incredible shows held here.  They host over 600 shows annually, with over 190,000 visitors attending these extravagant events every year.  These amazing shows include flamenco dancing, symphony orchestra performances, operas, concerts, and much more.  Many performances of the Maestros de la Guitarra are held here as well.  Take a look at their events calendar to see the full schedule of performances!

While you’re here, you should also consider participating in a guided tour of the Palau de la Musica Catalana.  A historic building that is recognized as a World Heritage Site, this is one of the best places to take a tour in Barcelona.  You’ll be treated to stories of this building’s past, as well as behind-the-scenes peeks into how these productions are created.

How to Obtain Palau de la Musica Tickets to the Next Concert

You can purchase your tickets for the events at the Palau de la Musica either online or at their box office.  If you have any questions about tickets, you can contact them by calling (902) 442-882.

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No vacation is complete without a wonderful place to stay!  Treat yourself to lodging in the finest accommodations during your Christmas getaway to Barcelona to admire all the festive attractions!  bizFlats Vacation Rentals has everything you need to feel right at home while you’re on vacation!  We offer luxurious lofts, villas, cottages, and apartments located throughout the most picturesque parts of Barcelona.  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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Maestros de la Guitarra Features Some of the Best Artists in the World

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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football tickets barcelona

What You Need to Know Before Buying Football Tickets in Barcelona

Football (also known as soccer to some travelers) has been an essential part of Barcelona’s culture for quite some time now.  A tradition that originated all the way back in 1899, this game has developed over the years to become the thrilling experience that it is today!  If you’re planning a vacation to Barcelona, make sure to attend one of these exciting FC Barcelona games to help the locals here cheer on this talented team to victory.  There are a few things you’ll need to know when purchasing your football tickets in Barcelona, so learn all the necessary information first so you can enjoy watching these amazing Barcelona home games!

4 Things You Need to Know about Buying Football Tickets in Barcelona

  1. Barcelona Football Schedule

The Barcelona football schedule is usually confirmed and released to the public every year during mid-July.  You can then view the list of teams that Barcelona will be playing to determine which Barcelona home games you want to attend.  You can view these fixtures on the official FC Barcelona website once it’s available and even sign up for their email updates to have it sent directly to your inbox.  

  1. Football Tickets in Barcelona: Prices

Prices for these games depend on the significance of each match.  The cost can range from 15 Euros (approximately $17.00) all the way up to 247 Euros (or about $281.00).  These prices also depend on where you want to sit; general admission is much more affordable than front row seats.  Check the prices online to see which games work best for you during your Barcelona vacation.  

  1. Where to Purchase Football Tickets in Barcelona

Purchasing Barcelona soccer tickets can be done in several different ways.  You can buy them online, over the phone, at an ATM, or directly from the ticket office.  (Buying them from us here at bizFlats Vacation Rentals is also an excellent option, since we have inside contacts at FC Barcelona who can always get us tickets, even if the game you want to attend is sold out!  Call us at +34 934 925 721 for all the details.)

  1. About Camp Nou

All the Barcelona home games are played at the magnificent Camp Nou, a colossal stadium that can hold up to 99,354 cheering fans!  The largest stadium in all of Spain, this enormous establishment, constructed in 1957, is located at C. Aristides Maillol, 12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.

Come Stay with Us at bizFlats Vacation Rentals!  

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Go to the Primavera Sound Barcelona for the best show ever

Primavera Sound Barcelona: Indie Music at its Best

If you haven’t heard of Primavera Sound, it’s about time that you begin exploring what has become an international indie music community right here in Barcelona. Quickly approaching its 16th anniversary with the festival taking place the 1st through the 5th of June at venues all over the beautiful city. This year is a landmark for Primavera Sound Barcelona, and a chance to look back and tell the many inspiring stories of one of the country’s premier festivals for independent-minded artists and music lovers who congregate around some of the world’s most progressive sounds. With performers ranging from large groups to solo artists, and from child stars to veterans, you are sure to be awed by this year’s lineup, as you have in years before.

Each part of this festival is bound to be more exciting than the next, with music performances happening literally all day. Guests will find it hard to choose which stages to be at throughout the day, and will undoubtedly have to make some sacrifices. There are many different ways to see the festival. If you’re a hardcore “fesitvarian,” you’ll want to buy the full festival ticket, or even sign up to be a part of the Primavera Pro. If you want to plan ahead for next year, consider joining their three installment plan way of purchasing the ticket, which you can purchase up until 2 months before the festival. You can also buy single day tickets if you’re only want to see one particular performer.

Some headline performers whose names you will definitely recognize on the Primavera Sound Barcelona lineup this year are Explosions in the Sky, Radiohead, Last Shadow Puppets, LCD Soundsystem, and PJ Harvey. As this sample of the performers suggests, the indie genre is wide ranging and full of mixed styles and sounds, ensuring that there is something for everyone, whether you’re more inclined to house, metal, blues, pop, jazz or bluegrass.

Primavera Sound Barcelona is also known for being a place where new talent is discovered by record labels. Beach House, Deerhunter, Crystal Castles, Mac DeMarco and Manel all played at Primavera and got record deals out of it, breaking onto the mainstream indie scene. You’re sure to see both the kings of indie, as well as newcomers to the stage, but also be part of an audience from the remotest parts of the world. The festival has had visitors from Nepal, The Bahamas, Greenland, the Cayman Islands, the Ivory Coast and Madagascar.

Having put on over 2,350 concerts in its 15 years of existence, Primavera Sound Barcelona knows how to entertain. Between the eclectic musical performances and the perfect Barcelona setting, a trip to this festival is sure to be not only a great time, but potentially a life changing experience. Hang out in some of the city’s most beautiful parks and oldest venues and get ready to indulge in five days of mind blowing experiences in one of the most incredible cities in the world.

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Barcelona is one of the most desirable vacation destinations in the world.  Make your trip here truly unforgettable by staying in the best lodging possible!  bizFlats offers luxurious apartments, villas, penthouses, and lofts throughout the most beautiful regions of the city.  Each rental is located in close proximity to some of the city’s most popular attractions, and public transportation is reliable and easy to use, so you can get to the beaches, museums, and other popular attractions of Barcelona with no trouble at all!  Don’t miss your opportunity for the trip of a lifetime; check our availability and book your stay today!

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