What a sea in Barcelona. Resorts for children close to Barcelona with a good beach and clear sea

Park Guell, Barcelona

It is difficult to find more attractive in tourist plan a European country than Spain. The seaside, warm climate, picturesque nature, as well as a stunning heritage of culture, architecture and painting - all this can be enjoyed while visiting Spain. Tours to Spain are an opportunity to combine a relaxing holiday with entertaining excursions, getting a huge amount of positive emotions from the rest.

A little about Spain

According to one of the versions, translated from Phoenician, Spain means "Daman coast". The capital of Spain is the city Madrid. The population of Spain is about 40 million people... National currency - Euro... The state language is Spanish.

The largest cities are Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville.

What Spain looks like on the world map

Geographical position of Spain

Spain is located in the southwestern part of Europe, borders Portugal, France, Morocco, Gibraltar and Andorra. It is washed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Occupies an area of more than 500 thousand km2. Includes, in addition to the mainland, the sunny islands - Tenerife, Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Canary Islands , which are loved by many tourists.

How to get to Spain

Direct flights of airlines fly from Moscow Transaero, Aeroflot, Air Europa and Iberia to Madrid and Barcelona. From other cities in Russia, you can fly to Spain with one or more transfers. In summer, charter flights are carried out.

Flight Moscow-Barcelona, cost from 11,000 rubles, fly 4 hours 30 minutes.
Flight Moscow-Madrid, cost from 8700 rudders, fly 5 hours 10 minutes.
You can also fly to other cities in Spain, such as Valencia, Seville, or the islands of Ibiza, Menorca, but with transfers.

Do I need a visa to Spain

Russian citizens to visit Spain are required to apply for Schengen visa, the cost of which will be about 2500 rubles. Most often, a visa is opened for six months, which in the future makes it possible to visit other countries of the European Union.

It is better to take care of a visa in advance by submitting documents for obtaining it 3-4 weeks before departure.

An unforgettable holiday in Barcelona

Barcelona is the most important resort on the Spanish coast. Warm sea, bright sun, clean beaches, traditional cuisine and of course unforgettable architectural structures famous Gaudi. All this attracts a large number of tourists from different countries.

Climate of Barcelona

Barcelona delights travelers with its mild subtropical climate. For those who want to sunbathe and swim in the warm sea, the most suitable time from May to October, the air is warming up up to +28 degrees. You can get acquainted with the sights of the city in winter, the air temperature rarely drops below +10 degrees, and the weather is clear and sunny.

Weather forecast for Barcelona

Choosing a hotel in Barcelona

Barcelona has accommodation options for every taste and budget, from the most modest hostels to five-star VIP hotels. Most level hotels 5 stars located in the center of Barcelona: near the famous La Rambla. Hotels with unusual design and style, for example, Hotel Omm or Villa Emilia... You can also stay in the city in boutique hotels Granados 83 or Ayre Hotel Caspe.

Hotel Omm

Hotel Omm, Barcelona

This hotel is made in a very bold and modern design, on the roof of which there is a terrace with a bar and an outdoor swimming pool. Hotel guests can enjoy a delicious views of Gaudí's Casa Mila, Sagrada Familia and the lights of Montjuïc.

Villa Emilia

Villa Emilia Hotel, Barcelona

In the summer time on the hotel terrace is a huge amount of entertainment and non-stop party. Zinc-Bar invites you to taste culinary delicacies made from the freshest ingredients. Hotel guests have the opportunity to taste various snacks and pastries from 5 to 7 o'clock in the evening absolutely is free.

Granados 83

Granados 83 Hotel, Barcelona

The hotel is located in the center of Barcelona, surrounded by exclusive shops. Design the interior is designed in an elegant minimalist style, using iron, brick, wood, natural leather and white marble. The walls of the hotel are decorated collections of Asian art.

Ayre Hotel Caspe

Ayre Hotel Caspe, Barcelona

This hotel is the best place to explore the city, as it is in the heart of modernist Barcelona. It contains 141 room, each of which is completely soundproofed. The hotel also has a gym and a cafe in which no tobacco smoke.

National cuisine of Barcelona

Spanish cuisine is hearty and delicious dishes, and wonderful wines. When visiting Spain, you should definitely try paella with various additives - with seafood, chicken, cuttlefish ink, meat or vegetarian, as well as local snacks - tapas and jamon.

As for the wines, be sure to taste the famous Spanish sherry, light sangria or a special champagne - cava.

4Cats

4Cats Restaurant, Barcelona

While walking in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, take a look at art restaurant "4 cats" where Pablo Picasso often visited and the works of many Spanish artists are exhibited. The restaurant offers Catalan cuisine menu, meat and fish dishes, snacks and desserts. Numerous boutiques are located in the same area.

Ca l'Isidre

Ca l'Isidre Restaurant, Barcelona

You can also visit the favorite restaurant of the Spanish king - Ca l'Isidre. Family restaurant where meals are served Mediterranean cuisine, and pay special attention to seasonal products. For example, in April you will taste dishes with truffles, octopus and young beans. The cellar contains more than 50 types of wine, champagne and cognac.

Casa Leopoldo

Casa Leopoldo Restaurant, Barcelona

Small restaurant with traditional spanish cuisine where the service is very fast and the waiters meet speaking Russian. The sights of Barcelona are literally 10-15 minutes walk away.

Casa Calvet

Casa Calvet Restaurant, Barcelona

Exclusive restaurant in the center of Barcelona, which is located in a building designed by Antoni Gaudi. Customers are served creative dishes which are based on traditional Mediterranean cuisine.

Barcelona landmarks

Fountain of Montjuic in Barcelona

Fountain of Montjuic, Barcelona

The symbol of the city- a magic fountain, located on the mountain of the same name. Previously, it pleased tourists and locals only backlit, but in 1992 it was refurbished and now everyone can enjoy music.

Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

Expiatory Temple of the Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

To be more precise Expiatory Temple of the Sagrada Familia, it was built from 1882 to 2010. It became a long-term construction for one simple reason, money going for construction with donations from parishioners. The famous architect was Gaudí.

House Mila, Barcelona

Another awesome creation of Gaudi. It was built as a residential building, in which ventilation is arranged so that air conditioners can be dispensed with, and the interior partitions can be moved. Now there is exhibition hall, cafe and apartment - museum.

Casa Batlló, Barcelona

Antoni Gaudi never ceases to amaze Casa Batlló was built for one textile tycoon. In the work of Gaudi, the construction of this house marked the beginning of a new stage. Both in the facade of the building and in the interior there is practically straight lines were not used, preference was given to curved. Barcelona cannot be seen in one day. With each visit, this city reveals its new facets, causing the desire to return here again.

Heads and Tails in Barcelona

This time Jeanne went to Barcelona for the weekend with her husband Alan.

Airfare to Barcelona

By filling out the form below, you can see the cost of the flight to Barcelona on a date convenient for you from all leading airlines.

You can find out the cost of a trip to Barcelona, flight and accommodation options, choose a suitable package tour using ours.

Dozens of different resorts are concentrated in the vicinity of Barcelona, but if you look from the point of view of children's recreation, then not all of these resorts are equally well suited for beach holidays, entertainment and excursions. The pristine Mediterranean coast can be found in the resort town of Calella, which is located about 50 kilometers from Barcelona and can be reached in about an hour. Many tourists combine their vacation in Calella with sightseeing in Barcelona. For a long time it was not a city, but an ordinary fishing village, the tourist infrastructure in which began to develop only in the 60s of the last century. Now the city has many modern hotels, cafes, restaurants, shops, entertainment centers and everything else that can satisfy the needs of different categories of vacationers.

Due to the subtropical climate prevailing in the resort, beach holidays are available from April to October. The city attracts tourists with its beauty, as it is located in a quiet place protected from the winds - at the foot of a hill.

The city beach line is more than three kilometers long and is clean, well-groomed sand beach, which is divided into several zones with shady alleys. There are several lagoons and rocky areas that are chosen by those who prefer a secluded getaway. The quality of the local golden beaches is evidenced by the fact that the local beach area is regularly awarded the highest award - the Blue Flag. Everything is in order with the beach infrastructure, every vacationer will be able to find what he needs: restaurants, bars, rental of sun loungers, umbrellas, a large selection of water attractions, playgrounds. From active recreation, one can single out the opportunity to play volleyball, do aerobics, diving, ride a kayak, go on a short bike trip.

Today Calella is a popular tourist city with a population of 20 thousand people and can host about 15 thousand vacationers every month. You do not have to choose an expensive hotel for living, which can significantly hit your budget, there are boarding houses, three-star hotels, campgrounds, the possibility of renting apartments for vacationers. When choosing, you need to start from the fact that the closer to the sea, the higher the cost, but in any case the resort is distinguished by reasonable prices, in Spain there are a lot of resorts where the rest will cost several times higher.

In addition, the resort is not boring, there are a number of interesting (historical) attractions, various festivals, carnivals, exhibitions and other events are regularly held, in which everyone can take part. Especially popular are the large pedestrian zones, which facilitate leisurely and absolutely safe walks around the city. The city has many squares, parks, alleys.

Tourists usually travel to Calella from Barcelona Airport, and there are several ways to do this. The cheapest option is the train ride. To do this, directly at the airport, you need to take a train that follows line R2. But you will not get straight to Calella on this train, first you have to change at the Barcelona Sants station. After that, you will need to change to the R1 train, which follows to Blanes and makes a stop at railway station Calella. Trains run frequently and the total cost of the journey will be around € 5 per person.

Those who are absolutely not oriented in space, do not know any foreign languages will have to use the services of local taxi drivers, but the pleasure is not cheap, for such a trip you will have to pay more than 100 euros (if you decide to take a taxi, it is better to negotiate the cost in advance, so that upon arrival at the destination there are no unnecessary questions).

Rest in August is associated with beaches, sun. And what a sea in Spain, in Barcelona, at this time of year! Today we will step back a little from the sights, shopping and gastronomic delights that every tourist is steadfastly associated with Catalonia. We will not mention that this is a visa country, for entry into which Schengen must be opened. Let's talk only about the happiness of rest in this land.

The sea in Barcelona

Each of us has heard about the capital of Catalonia in connection with culture and Antoni Gaudí y Cornet, who created from the city a place of world architectural pilgrimage. But the main destination for recreation here is the sea - the Mediterranean, one of the cleanest and warmest on the planet. The swimming season opens in April, when the water temperature reaches + 17 ° C, but such heating will not be comfortable for everyone. Better to wait for May and a pleasant + 19-20 ° C. July - September - the time of those who travel with a child or like to swim in "fresh milk" - not lower than + 27 ° С. The unofficial closure of the sea bathing season occurs at the end of October, when the water cools down to + 20 ° C.

Better to enjoy Barcelona and the sea from November to March from the shore, during leisurely walks along the promenade, because the temperature in it drops to a minimum value of + 13 ° C. It's time to indulge in shopping, excursions, gastronomic discoveries and dreams of the next summer in Catalonia.

Tourist and the sea

In addition to swimming directly, a luxurious Mediterranean tan can be purchased by spending time more actively. The list of activities in Barcelona is endless:

Surfing and windsurfing. For those seeking to ride the wave, the Mediterranean coast is one of the best places... There are no waves, extreme in height and unpredictability, like the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, but it is comfortable for beginners to learn to catch a wave. Expert-level athletes will not be disappointed either.
Diving is for those who, for the first time or once again, are planning to visit the underwater world of the Mediterranean with striking landscapes and a variety of exotic inhabitants. Beginners will spend their first dive in a special pool with an experienced instructor, and only after that they will go to storm the depth.
Kayaking is a single or two-seater boat for risk-taking fans of extreme sports.
Catamarans are not from our childhood. On the beaches of Barcelona, this is the name for large roomy boats, in which you can make a mini-sea cruise on your own or with an instructor.
Sailing trips - you should definitely organize a sailing trip to enjoy the panorama of the city. If desired, a real boatswain will teach the basics of navigation and conduct a sea baptism ceremony with an indispensable glass of champagne. All equipment clothing is already on board. A discount is guaranteed at the Maritime Museum. Of the restrictions, there is a prohibition on the presence of children under 7 years of age on the ship. Those who have not reached the age of majority must be accompanied by an adult. And the ability to swim for sailing travel is a prerequisite.

Famous beaches and towns

The city is surrounded by beaches. Some are located right in Barcelona, the rest are in the immediate vicinity. Needless to say, everyone's territory is an excellent example of how a space by the sea should be arranged - daily cleaning, free sun loungers and umbrellas, toilets, a sufficient number of professional lifeguards.

Barceloneta

Noisy, colorful and relaxed. Its location is especially successful - you only need to take a step from the main street of the metropolis, and you find yourself on the beach. Everything is possible here:

A resort in the north of the metropolis, which stretches for almost 150 km, right up to the border with France. There is everything for a fashionable and meaningful vacation, except for the beaches themselves: ancient monasteries on Mount Montserrat, nature reserves, water parks, medieval castles, a botanical garden and observation decks offering memorable views of Tibidabo, the Pyrenees and Mallorca.

Costadel Garraf

A place to the south of the metropolis. "Golden" young people come here to have a great and expensive vacation. Beaches, discos, extreme and trendy sports, hotels and bars right on the sand and pebbles of the coast.

Costa Dorada

The quietest part of the coast for those who plan to combine beach holidays with shopping, as well as for families with children. The former will appreciate the shopping malls, the latter will appreciate the PortAventura amusement park. Gastronomic festivals and culinary master classes are constantly held here. You cannot visit Barcelona and not get acquainted with the national Catalan cuisine, famous for the preparation of seafood. Today is the motto have a good summer sounds like this: Spain, Barcelona, sea, food.

To the tourist about vigilance

Watch out: while you crave cultural experiences and southern tanning, local thieves are eager to profit from visitors. Relaxing on the beautiful streets and beaches of the capital of ancient Catalonia is fraught with trouble. Losing attention automatically leads to the loss of cash, and even documents. Therefore, learn to combine sightseeing of famous landmarks, a glass of sangria de cava, and increased vigilance.

The piggy banks of tourist stories about how it is customary to deceive visitors are constantly replenished. Everyone knows that they can snatch a bag out of their hands, so the scammers have to act more sophisticated.

For example, an agitated local resident may jump up to a visitor and, with frustrated gesticulations, make it clear that he has stained his clothes. And he will offer to take you to the nearest entrance to help clean things up. Even if you did not go with a stranger to a secluded place, most likely you have already lost some valuables - at the moment when the problem was told with fierce gestures.

Local specificity

The Spaniards are lazy. Tune in to the long wait for the end of the siesta - everything closes at 13.00, and it won't work again until 17.00. On Sunday, very little works at all. But that's not all - people like to go on strike in Barcelona, including taxi drivers, bus drivers, metro drivers and air harbor workers.

A separate conversation should be devoted to the loss of luggage at the airport - a favorite attraction of local loaders, but today we are talking about the sea. Therefore, we will simply briefly recommend as much as possible to take with you, so that later from home you will not have to find out the fate of your luggage for a painfully long time. Another problem is the return of the VAT amount, which they will try to return for some reason in dollars, with a commission. It is possible to be surprised that there is no euro at a Spanish airport, but it is pointless. Faced, you have to take it for granted.

And finally - the cost of visiting museums and other attractions. Culture is expensive in Barcelona. Creator of the main tourist places of the city of Antonio Gaudi would be surprised to learn that even the unfinished Sagdada Familia has access only for money. Today it is 22 euros.

How to get there and how much does it cost to stay

To find out which sea washes Barcelona, you just need to buy a ticket there. Direct flights from Moscow are carried out three times a day, so it's easy to fly. If you buy tickets through special services, you can save a lot, while the usual price is about 230 euros round trip during the peak holiday season. Since September, the cost has dropped significantly - the cheapest way to fly to the capital of Catalonia is in May - no more than 150 euros. Prices rise again in June. If you are planning not only a beach vacation or shopping, but an intensive cultural program, you should purchase a special tourist card. With it, the use of public transport, as well as visits to museums, will become free.

Holidays in Barcelona are, in principle, affordable. It all depends on the needs of the tourist. If you choose "all inclusive", you shouldn't worry about three meals a day, solid medical insurance, a beautiful view from the window, and a convenient transfer. There is an opportunity to visit the pool and gyms of the hotel for free. All this is foreseen. Such service systems are preferred by family tourists with children. Those who want to save money are offered to purchase the minimum package - bed and breakfast. But the tourist will be able to eat according to his choice during long walks around the city.

We hope that after reading the article you will have a desire to go to the capital of Catalonia and get your own answer to the question, which sea in Spain? You will definitely share it with us.

Planning a trip to Barcelona this year? Let's go through all the points - from tickets and visas to all sorts of things, for example, what you can bring from Spain as a souvenir!

First of all, why Barcelona?

To facilitate the task, we have compiled for you TOP 3 proven sites where you can select a tour yourself, bypassing persistent managers:

Where is the best vacation in Spain?

Traditionally, adherents of cultural and educational pastime go to the very heart of the country - the city of Madrid; listen in admiration for the architectural heritage of Barcelona; choose as an object of deep study and inspiration calm Cordoba and amazing Granada, still remembering the era of the Reconquista.

Lovers of lying on the beach and swaying on the waves are faced with a dilemma, where is better rest in Spain by the sea. The "passive" part flies to the islands - Baleoric (Mallorca) or Canary (Tenerife) - and the "active" part moves to the northeastern coast - Costa Brava, Alicante, Costa Dorada.

You must have guessed where those who want to combine the first with the second (cultural and beach holidays) rush. To the most visited city in Spain - Barcelona, where a thousand-year history is combined with the drive of a seaside resort!

Gothic quarter in Barcelona

How to get to Barcelona cheaply on your own?

By plane, of course. Well, only if you are not visiting neighboring Andorra, from where you can take a trip to the capital of Catalonia by car. 🙂

Cheap plane tickets to Barcelona from Moscow, as well as from any other major city, can be found using services that compare airline offers:

Diverse additional functions make the search for air tickets even more convenient and fast. For example, using a calendar low prices, you will find out how much a ticket to Barcelona costs by months, and you will see that the best price for a ticket to Spain, if you take the season, will be in August or September.

Also, consider flying to Spain with low-cost airlines. This is just the option from Ryanair - a direct flight from the Estonian capital to the Spanish possessions at the height of the season for ≈ 2800 rubles. An ideal option for Petersburgers, because in the end a ticket from St. Petersburg to Barcelona will cost 5100 rubles. (including a train ticket to Tallinn) instead of 10,000 rubles.

Tip: think about your airport transfer in advance, as it is not uncommon to try to get to the center of Barcelona with taxi prices for unprepared tourists costing a pretty penny.

For those who are with a company: you can also consider an individual transfer - it is beneficial for 4-5 people and saves time.

How long to fly to Barcelona

Direct flight from Moscow - 4.5 hours. It will take about 4 hours to get to Barcelona from St. Petersburg by plane. Also we have detailed article about the time of flight to Barcelona from other cities of Russia.

However, if you want to get to Spain in a more budgetary way, you will have to take a connecting flight, because they tend to be cheaper. On average, waiting at the connecting airport (Riga, Istanbul, Chisinau, Warsaw) takes from 2 hours. So, when answering the question of how long to fly to Barcelona with a transfer, we advise you to prepare for a long wait of at least 6 hours. The main airlines flying to the capital of Catalonia are Aeroflot, AirBaltic, Turkish Airlines, LOT, FlyOne.

As for the time difference with Moscow, Barcelona is just an hour behind ours.

Ryanair is the # 1 airline for the budget traveler

Spain Tourist Visa 2019

Having purchased the cherished tickets, we solve the following question - do Russians need a visa to Spain in 2019? Of course yes. The country is part of the Schengen area, therefore, you need to obtain a Schengen visa.

Everyone can collect documents for a Spanish visa:

bank card statement
accommodation reservation
certificate from the place of work
flights to spain
1 photograph, copies of Russian and foreign passport.

Study in advance a sample application form for a Schengen visa to Spain and, grabbing a package with all the certificates, tickets, go to an accredited visa center. Let's suggest addresses:

Moscow: Letnikovskaya street 11/10, building 1
St. Petersburg: Liteiny prospect 26, office 106A
Yekaterinburg: st. Karl Liebknecht 22, office 305
Novosibirsk: st. Lenin 52, office 406
Kazan: st. Galaktionova, 6

For Russians, a visa to Spain with fees will cost about 3,500 rubles, and registration will take about 5-10 days.

Climbing the funicular (€ 11) to the Montserrat mountain

What to see in Barcelona in 1 day? And what to see in 3 days? 🙂

So, if you only have one day to explore the capital of Catalonia, then it will be ... mega-saturated! You would hardly prefer to spend it on the beach. After all, the sea is the sea, but the city itself cannot be compared with anything else. Therefore, in order to see at least a part of what Barcelona is famous for, we arm ourselves in advance with a city map with sights, and at the same time with a Barcelona metro map in Russian (you cannot figure it out on the spot without this) and mark the following points.

We are impressed by the colossal dimensions of the fantasy of the architect Gaudí, inspired by the concept of a garden city, and admire the panoramic view of the whole of Barcelona.

An important point: tickets are purchased on the official website of the park, the cost is € 7.5.

Photos from our trip to Barcelona (Park Guell - July 2016)

Temple of the Sagrada Familia, or better known variant - Sagrada Familia... Another creation by Gaudí, from the outside it looks like a fairytale sand castle, but not at all because it has been under construction since 1882 to this day. From the inside, it is a functioning temple in which divine services are held. Ticket price from 15 euros.

Boulevard La Rambla... Always crowded with tourists during the day, at night the city's famous pedestrianized street turns into the center of a frenzied nightlife (which is a significant part of what Barcelona is famous for). The buildings of the 18th century framing it do not see so much. 🙂

Fruits, jamon, spices, in a word, everything that is brought from Barcelona as a gift, you will find a stone's throw from La Rambla, along with the atmosphere of a truly Spanish bazaar, and so the XIX century.

However, the prices for Boqueria are nowhere higher due to the constant flow of tourists.

Nearby and Gothic Quarter- islet of the Middle Ages in a modern city.

The perfect ending to the mission "What to see in Barcelona in 1 day" would be Singing Fountain Show on a hill Montjuic and a funicular ride for the stunning scenery of the evening city.

Magic Fountain at Montjuic - summer show starts at 21.30

Well, if you decide to explore Barcelona in 3 days, then we supplement the map of attractions with morning promenades on the beach, leisurely walks through gastronomic establishments and day-evening thematic routes, conventionally named:

Gaudi's day. In detail, we are amazed at the flight of the imagination of the Catalan genius of architecture, adding to the Parc Guell and Sagrada Familia the houses of Mila and Batlló - a kind of fairy-tale kingdoms - and the Montjuic Park, where it is also worth appreciating the National Museum of Art of Catalonia and the castle-fortress itself.

Day of the Gothic. We indulge in the impressions of the narrow medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, at the same time glancing into the Picasso Museum, the King's Square with the Royal Palace and the Four Cats cafe, which was dearly loved by Gaudi and Pablo. Breathing in the fun-filled air of the central street of La Rambla, we head to the Spanish village (again on Montjuic) and observe the whole Spain in miniature.

Tibidabo Day. We rush from the Barcelona lowlands up to Mount Tibidabo, first on the Blue Tram, and then on the funicular through the oldest amusement park in Europe, the Temple of the Sacred Heart and up to the highest point of Barcelona - the television tower Torre de Collserola, where from the 10th floor you can see the city in full view ...

With this route, Barcelona will appear in front of you in all its glory in 3 days. 🙂 Also, if you are flying for 3 days, be sure to remember to spend time on the Mediterranean beach.

Where to go from Barcelona for 1 day?

If you plan on a large scale, then to neighboring Andorra (the Schengen visa is just in your passport), more compactly - to Montserrat or Port Aventura.

Basically, there are many places to get out of Barcelona for a day. Read more in our separate article at the link above!

some rocks are said to look like animals - elephant, lion and monkey

Weather in Barcelona

The climate in Catalonia is typically Mediterranean with mild winters and humid hot summers. If you are not a fan of an overly active sun, but at the same time love to sunbathe, then it is better to go to Barcelona at the beginning or end of the beach season, which lasts from June to September.

In May and June, the weather in Barcelona already favors travelers: the air warms up to + 23 ... + 25 ° С, and the sea temperature does not drop below ... + 20 ° С.

The weather in Barcelona in September is the most comfortable for sunbathing, and to explore the city without fear of a burnt nose. The heat in the air is at least + 25 ° С, and the temperature of the water in the sea pleases + 22 ° С ... + 24 ° С.

By the way, we dedicated the temperature at the peak of the beach season in Barcelona and the weather by months. Still, weather conditions also affect the price of the air ticket, because it is cheapest to travel to Spain from mid-October to early March.

How to get to Barcelona from the airport

The question is, of course, more relevant for those who organize a trip to Barcelona on their own.

In general, it depends on which of the three existing airports you land at.

Get there from Barcelona's main airport El Prat to the city center and back, it is most convenient by the Aerobus shuttles running between Plaça de Catalunya (central square) and terminals 1 and 2. At night, NitBus buses numbered N16 and N17 will take you to the city from El Prat airport.

There is also a shuttle service from Barcelona Airport via the L9 metro line, however, it does not run through the stations located in the central square area. It is possible to get to the city center from Barcelona Airport by taking the RENFE train to Passeig de Gràcia station and then changing to the metro. More quick ways transportation to Barcelona - rent a car at the airport or order a taxi.

In order to get there from Girona airport to Barcelona, take the Barcelona Bus. It stops right at the airport and goes to the main bus station of the city, from where the metro is in 5 minutes. The following transfer options from Girona airport to Barcelona city center are renting a car right after getting off the plane or the RENFE train, but first you need to get to Girona by bus. The most expensive trip is by taxi, however, this option is always available.

How to get there from Reus Airport to Barcelona? Bus company Hispano Igualadina. You will find it at the exit from the arrivals terminal. The flight will take you to Barcelona Sants bus station, located next to the metro. Well, if you get to the center of Reus first, you can go to Barcelona by train.

An independent trip to Barcelona will require a separate consideration of the issue of accommodation.

Hotels, hostels, hostels, hastels, apartments, flats - the places to stay in Barcelona are countless. All available offers can be found on the website:

Parents who intend to relax with a child for a week or two will be helped to determine the hotel real reviews and photos on the site. Sort the results by key requirements - close to the sea, family room and tranquil area - and explore the options in detail. But remember that rooms sell out quickly and prices skyrocket, especially during peak beach season.

If you are flying with a company, or with a large family, and also for a long period, it makes sense to rent an apartment. In this case, your faithful assistant is Airbnb, where you can rent cheap accommodation in Barcelona without intermediaries, because the hosts themselves offer whole houses, villas, rooms and apartments for your choice. On average, an apartment in Barcelona during the velvet season in September will cost 3500 rubles per day. In July-August, prices are slightly higher.

Tip: worrying about how to navigate in a completely unfamiliar Barcelona? Filter "host language" and Airbnb will suggest accommodation with Russian citizens. We are sure that our compatriots will not refuse a small introductory excursion. 🙂

But still, the answer to the question of where it is better to live in Barcelona also depends on the area. We will briefly tell you about the most popular neighborhoods in the city.

Any guidebook, like us, will start describing the districts of Barcelona with the famous one. Located next to the sea, more precisely, right by the sea, together with the beach of the same name, it is an object of attention not only for tourists who prefer to spend hours in the sun lying down, but also for perky clubbers. Families with children are better off looking for a different place to stay in Barcelona if they are interested in a restful night's sleep.

Barceloneta beach is the busiest and not very clean.
Much better on neighboring San Sebastia or Bogatel

Close to the coast, but away from its noisy hum is the area El Born... A fusion of tranquility and historic landmarks, trendy boutiques and affordable dining options is perfect option best place to live in Barcelona for shopping and cultural enthusiasts.

Gothic Quarter- the "heart" of the districts of Barcelona. It is unlikely that it will be possible to rent inexpensive accommodation or book a hotel here, after all, the very center of the city, nevertheless, the narrow streets of Barri Gotic will appeal to any category of tourists.

Traditionally, the most popular places in Barcelona during the summer are the beaches. In the daytime, they are overcrowded with tourists and locals alike, who want to cool off at sea in the summer heat. In the evening, they turn into a 4-kilometer long sandy strip, illuminated by the lights of nightclubs. No wonder many travelers tend to find hotels near the beach in Barcelona.

Here we describe the best beaches Barcelona, each of which can be characterized by the word "the most ...". About the rest (in a word, no worse) places for sunbathing - and there are 10 of them in the city - we will tell in a separate article. They also marked all the beaches of Barcelona on the map.

By the way, a nice moment: the capital of Catalonia does not know what paid beaches are - access to the coast is absolutely free.

The longest (which means a lot of space) - Sant Sebastia beach(Sant Sebastià). In addition, it is also the cleanest, although all beach resting places are cleaned of garbage daily. Reviews of tourists say that the sand is not so fine here, there are also pebbles in the sea. Sant Sebastia is dearly loved by young people for the atmosphere of constant fun, and can even compete with another "mecca" of parties - Barceloneta Beach.
The most organized - Bogatel beach(Bogatell). Separated from both sides by breakwaters, it is a fairly compact, 700 meters long, line of golden sand. Nevertheless, there are safes for storing things, a rescue station, showers with toilets and changing cabins, and land and water entertainment.
The most popular - barceloneta beach(Barceloneta). In high season, there is literally nowhere for an apple to fall, both in the afternoon and in the evening. Our recommendation: Want to feel the pulse of a Spanish city? Go swimming and sunbathing on Barceloneta!
The most "frank" - Mar Bella beach(Mar Bella). In the photo it looks like a place equipped for relaxation by the sea, however, be vigilant if you do not want, so to speak, to see too much. Nudist beaches are not uncommon in Barcelona. 🙂

The beaches near Barcelona are also worth mentioning. To the north of the Catalan capital, the Costa del Maresme in the cities of Calella and Pineda de Mar are worth visiting, and of course the sandy lines of the Costa Brava in Lloret de Mar.

Beautiful beaches can be found in the south, especially on the Costa Dorada. The closest beach on the way is Castelldefels beach, which is connected to the city by a direct train. Near Barcelona, there are also the beaches of the province of Tarragona with the especially popular city of Salou, where, in addition to picturesque mounds of sand, tourists will find the PortAventura amusement park.

Almost all of Barcelona's beaches are wide, sandy and fun:
sports grounds, volleyball nets and children's corners

Prices in Barcelona 2019

How much will a vacation in Barcelona cost at 2019 prices?

We have already studied how to get to Barcelona cheaply and where to rent an apartment cheaply (see. previous chapters). It remains to deal with other costly items of any travel - the prices of food and transport.

Food prices in Barcelona 2019

Let's start with groceries in shops and supermarkets, in case the prices in the restaurants in Barcelona seem too high to you, and there is just a small kitchen in the apartment. 🙂 Well, or you just wanted to cook it yourself or have a snack on the way to the beach.

I must say that food prices Barcelona offers quite acceptable, in comparison with other large cities of its neighbors in the Schengen area.

Fruit in a glass ≈ 2 €
Milk (1 l) ≈ 1 €
Cheese (1 kg) ≈ from 10 €
Bottle of water (1.5 l) ≈ 0.5 €
Fresh fish (1 kg) ≈ from 10 €
Wine (bottle) ≈ 2.5 €

P.S. All food prices are current for 2019.

Another place to eat inexpensively in Barcelona is, of course, the market. Visit one of the oldest in the country - the Boqueria market - and taste those Spanish products that you should definitely bring with you! Jamon, different kinds cured and smoked sausages, blue cheese - everything can be bought cheap near La Rambla.

A glass of sangria in a cafe on the Rambla - € 5

Prices in Barcelona restaurants and cafes

On average, lunch in a cafe costs ≈ 11 € per person, while dinner costs about 20 €.

Restaurants are, of course, less priced, especially in touristy places. By modest standards, evening reception food starts at € 30 per person.

In general, what to try from food in Barcelona? Definitely noteworthy:

first - cooling gazpacho
for the second - paella with seafood
for dessert - churros
Well, for a drink - sangria, and for a snack - tapas! 🙂

All of these foods and drinks can be found in restaurants and cafes in Barcelona at completely different prices. As a rule, on the menu of tourist-oriented gastronomic establishments, they tend to rise with the approach of high season.

A tip on where to eat inexpensively in Barcelona: Look out for local restaurants and cafes with a keen eye. Most often, they are located on the offshoots of the main streets. The cost of food is much lower there!

One of these establishments is Macchina,
where you can "collect" a plate of pasta for € 5-9

How much does a taxi cost in Barcelona

Metro, buses, including tourist buses, offering special prices for excursions, trams and even funiculars - public transport in Barcelona is widely represented. The fare on it hovers around 2.5 €, which, however, cannot be compared to a taxi ride.

Nevertheless, you need to have an idea of how much a taxi costs in Barcelona in order not to run into excessively profit-hungry drivers. By the way, you hardly have to call a taxi by phone, because in every district there are so-called taxi stations where cars are waiting. You can just vote on the road. You will recognize taxis in Barcelona by the black and yellow paint of the car and the light at the top, which turns green when the car is free.

For example, taxi prices to Barcelona from the airport are approximately 50 €, and around the city - 9.5 €.

But there is also a cheap taxi option. What's up with Uber in Barcelona? 🙂 Payment is made per km in motion and per minute if the car is stationary (at a traffic light, in a traffic jam, waiting for a client). But as a result, a taxi through this application will be cheaper than trips with official carriers.

Car rental in Barcelona - prices

In most cases, tourists rent a car at Barcelona Airport, where the main car rental companies are located - Hertz, Europcar, Avis.

Their offices are located in the city itself, so there is always an opportunity to rent a transport, presenting an international license and a passport. Car rental in Barcelona at prices ranging from 20 to 150 € per day. Do not be alarmed by such a wide spread, the upper limit is indicated in case you decide to rent a convertible, in Barcelona it happens.

Holidays in Barcelona 2019 - reviews of tourists

Who doubts that the many rave reviews from tourists about Barcelona reflect the true picture of a seaside holiday?

However, carried away by the rhythm of the city and its entertainments, the traveler can easily fall into euphoria and go all out, and in the end be left with an empty wallet. Even if this is not your first time in Barcelona, useful tips and live hacks will not hurt anyone!

So what you need to know if your first time in the Catalan capital based on Barcelona 2019 reviews?

The advice of experienced tourists says that if a traveler intends to actively use public transport, the T-10 travel card will significantly save his travel expenses. It costs 10.20 euros.
The question arose, what to visit and what to leave next time, because of the biting prices for the entrance to cultural sites? The Barcelona Card offers discounts on both transportation and sightseeing in the city.
In order not to pay a commission for currency conversion at ATMs in Barcelona, reviews of tourists suggest that you come with cash, at least for the first time.
Information for your safety - always be on the lookout in crowded places, and especially on La Rambla. This is a favorite place for thieves and bred!
Despite the millions of flows of visitors, not everyone knows English among the locals, more - young people.
Spain is a country legally interrupted for a midday siesta, it really is.

If you take into account the above-mentioned advice from experienced tourists, your feedback on your holiday in Barcelona will be overwhelmingly positive. 🙂

What language is spoken in Barcelona

In case there are misunderstandings with the local population, and attempts to explain themselves in English or the local dialect remain unsuccessful, remember that, unlike the whole of Spain, the official language in Barcelona is not only Spanish, but also Catalan. You can learn a couple of basic phrases. 🙂

Shopping in Barcelona

Be sure to include shopping expenses in your 2019 Barcelona holiday budget. Believe me, you cannot resist visiting the local sections of the shopaholic paradise, because this city is one of the fashion capitals of Europe.

And where there is one store, there is another - shopping in Barcelona is addictive!

The giants, beckoning with a huge neon sign on the outside and hundreds of luxury brands and mass markets from the inside, are scattered throughout the Catalan capital, but strategically clustered in the center, preventing even the sophisticated layman from getting through.

Reviews of shopping in Barcelona are not complete without mentioning the largest and most famous shopping center El Corte Ingles, which has incorporated shoe stores, spans of women's, men's and children's clothing, accessories boutiques, sporting goods departments and huge supermarket areas into its 12 floors. Note: Barcelona's El Corte Inglés has everything from a can of chopped tomatoes to an exclusive handkerchief. So, here for souvenirs from Barcelona!

At least a dozen other similar brethren (Maremagnum, Diagonal Mar, El Triangle) fall under the definition of a shopping center in Barcelona. By the way, if you want to buy as many different "memorabilia" as possible to the maximum, we have already come up with the best route for you on the Barcelona Shopping Line bus. A ticket costs about 10 €, and from 7 to 10 am you will be transported from one shopping mecca to another, saving time and money on travel.

Shopping streets in Barcelona

Are you not satisfied with the Armani boutique located next to Zara? Do you want to be followed by the mini-kingdoms of Louis Vuitton, Hermes and Prada, and at the end you will find showrooms of not so famous but promising Spanish designers? Then head straight to La Diagonal - a kind of high-end shopping district (or street) in the heart of the city.

Shopping streets in Barcelona are most often found in the central area. Passeig de Gracia is a place where elite boutiques and a mass market live together. If you are interested in buying a vintage hat, welcome to Riera Baixa. A good and inexpensive brand for young people will be found at Carrer de Palai.

Outlet in Barcelona

Perhaps, if you went to the thematic forum and glanced at the reviews about shopping in Barcelona, you would have noticed a certain shopping village that is mentioned every other time. Simply put, an outlet.

Outlets Barcelona was discovered not so long ago. They represent the countryside where all the brands available in Spain are represented. What is the difference from shopping malls besides location?

Prices for clothes and footwear of famous brands in such places are significantly lower. And in general, goods are sold at a discount. all year round... The fact is that the remnants of past collections, unsold items and items from fashion shows flock to outlets.

An example of a true Spanish suburban fashion village is La Roca Village. How to get there no questions will arise, despite the 40 km separating with the city, a train from Sants station will take you to the outlet in half an hour.

Sale in Barcelona 2019

We think that there is no need for extra words, the largest European sales are known to everyone. Most of what tourists bring from Spain comes from rebajas (Spanish sale), which are held twice a year and boldly declare discounts up to 70%.

The Barcelona 2019 Summer Sale starts in July and lasts until the end of August. In winter, they start in January and end in early March.

How many tax free in Spain - TAX FREE in Barcelona and how to get it back?

Keep a cool head right until you leave town. The joy of thorough shopping can be multiplied a little more!

You've probably heard about a system that allows you to get back a percentage of the amount of purchases abroad, and not only in Spain. Tax Free is a value added tax (VAT) refund service. Interestingly, the tax itself is 21%, while the tax free is approximately 10-15%. But such rates are also okay, right? Especially if you broke away in shopping centers to the fullest. 🙂

Tax free in Spain is carried out by two companies Global Blue and Premier Tax Free. The shops they work with are easily recognizable by a blue sticker with the name of the company on the windows.

How much can the tax be refunded from? Only purchases over € 90.16 made in one location are eligible for tax free refunds in Spain and Barcelona. Moreover, with Global Blue, they do not have to be one-time. For example, you can drop into a boutique and buy shoes for 60 €, and later in the evening, realizing that they will be sad without that handbag, return and buy another 50 €. In this case, tax free also remains in force, the main thing is, do not lose your check.

The store employees will give you a Tax Refund Check form, which you must fill out (you will need the data of your passport), attach the check and certify the seller's signature. Remember that tax refunds will not work without receipts for payment of purchases!

As in the whole of Spain, tax free refunds in Barcelona are carried out in several ways - in special centers in the city, upon departure from the country and upon returning home.

There are three offices in the Catalan capital, where you can contact within 10 days of shopping. Have a uniform, a passport and a credit, not a debit, card with you. Here you will be paid a percentage in cash and returned to your hands Tax Refund Check along with an envelope. Do not forget to put a customs stamp on the form at the airport certifying that you are leaving the European Union, enclose it in an envelope and drop it into the mailbox. Otherwise, after 21 days, the money will be debited from your card.

Tax free refunds in Barcelona at the airport are made in cash or by transfer to any bank card. When stamping at customs, please note that employees may be asked to show purchases, so keep all packaging and labels. At the tax-free point at the airport, you will be issued the preferred method of receiving money and the form will be collected here.

Upon arrival from Barcelona, a tax free refund is also possible. Be sure to stamp the check at the airport upon departure, and then send it by mail from Russia to the specified address. The money will come to your card within a month and a half.

Solving the dilemma of where is the best vacation in Spain with children in a crowded tourist city or on a calm seaside, we would choose the first option, in particular, Barcelona. Why?

Firstly, the very adjective "tourist" already hints that the city is rich not only in cultural and educational activities for adults, but also in entertainment for children. Tibidabo Park, the largest aquarium in Europe, a zoo where you can get around on a children's train, the Singing Fountains show on Montjuïc - there is definitely something to do for a young traveler.

Secondly, a vacation in Barcelona with children will not cause you any inconvenience in terms of moving with a stroller. With a 2-year-old child in your arms, it is not so easy to see the sights of the city. However, Barcelona has fully adapted to the needs of tourists with babies, providing ramps, descents from pedestrian crossings, elevators in the metro and platforms in buses.

Thirdly, unlike the beaches near Barcelona, the city's beaches are often more suitable for sunbathing with children. The entrance to the water is shallow, underfoot - the finest sand without debris. Specially organized playgrounds don't let you get bored.

And yet, where is it better with children on vacation in Spain? We will say that equipped big cities on the coast. It is better not to go to the islands of Spain.

How much money to take to Spain

First, you need to decide what currency is in Spain now. Do not be surprised, the country only in the 2000s switched to a single monetary standard for Schengen. Earlier, before the euro, Spanish money was denominated in pesetas. 🙂

So, the monetary currency of the kingdom (this is what the official name of the state sounds like) is the euro. Exchange rate against the ruble for January 2019:

1 € = 78 rubles.

When calculating how much money to take to Spain, proceed from the calculation of about 50 € for two per day. About 40 € is enough for us. This figure is for very budget vacation, and provided that the accommodation has already been paid for (or part of the money has been set aside). Enough for about lunch in a cafe, visiting a paid attraction, taking the subway, shopping at a grocery store. Three meals a day in restaurants, along with global shopping, will require additional investment beyond the specified minimum.

Currency exchange in Spain

Whatever currency in Spain you have with you in addition to euros (rubles or dollars), there may be problems with its exchange, and quite significant.

The bank, in most cases, does not have a cash exchange window for tourists from the street, as in Russia, and the exchange office is unlikely to offer a favorable rate. Rather, it will cause bewilderment how overnight the Spanish currency against the ruble can take off by a dozen percent!

Ideally, it is better to first exchange rubles for euros at home. Another good option is to have part of the money in cash in local currency (i.e. euro), and part of it - to be stored on the card in rubles, and, if necessary, withdrawn from ATMs. Automatic conversion will take place with less losses than using the services of exchange offices.

If suddenly there is a large amount of euros left, in Spain the exchange of currency, of course, is done in reverse side- from euros to rubles - but, again, with predatory claims from the exchanger.

Mobile communications in Spain

The question of communication when organizing a trip to Barcelona is quite common. As in all of Spain, mobile operators in Barcelona are represented by three large companies and a dozen small ones. What is the best choice?

In general, based on the advice of tourists about mobile communications in Spain, preference should be given to the main players in the communication services market. Firstly, their salons are more common on the way, and secondly, among the SIM cards there are definitely so-called prepago (prepaid) cards.

Such is the peculiarity of the country that tourists are content with a separate category of "prepaid" SIM cards, which offer less favorable rates. "Contract" SIM card is available only with a Spanish residence permit.

For Russian travelers who want to send a message about themselves to their homeland every day, Vodafone is the right choice. Operating almost on the entire area of the kingdom's land, she offers to communicate with relatives for 50 euro cents per minute. But if you try and connect the tariff "My Country", then the cost can be reduced to 10 euro cents.

Movistar, despite being the most popular operator, offers a limited number of prepaid plans. But those are good either for calls or for Internet access. Unfortunately, there is no successful combination of both services for a reasonable fee.

The most profitable mobile operator in Spain, according to tourist advice, is Orange. Cheap communication is provided by the Mundo tariff, which is focused specifically on intercountry negotiations and messages. An international call from Spain to Russia will cost about 10 eurocents per minute.

Mobile internet in Spain

The above cellular operators also provide mobile internet services in Spain. When connected, all prepaid tariffs come with a basic amount of megabytes, but they will be enough for correspondence in whatsapp during the vacation.

Don't rely on the power of Spanish Wi-Fi. Even though the same Barcelona is adorned with blue signs all over the place "there is wifi here", most likely you will have time to eat twice before the Google page loads. Still, for a reliable Internet in Spain, a SIM card from a local operator is a necessary thing.

Also recent times we are actively using the universal sim card DrimSim, which changes the operator depending on the country. In many countries, for example, in the same Spain, 1 MB costs 0.01 euros. Follow the link to get 7 euros to your account >>

What tourists bring from Spain

This section is so ambitious that first you need to outline what to take with you to Spain, so that there is room for gifts in your suitcase. 🙂

Documents (passports, insurance, tickets, home reservations) and money
Clothing: Keep it to a minimum if you go summer! Moreover, you can buy in outlets and sales
Shoes: sandals, flip-flops and possibly sneakers are enough. Many streets are lined with old paving stones, which presents some difficulties for walking in heels 🙂
Beach accessories: swimwear, creams, panamas - yes, bulky towels - no. They are provided in hotels or bought for pennies in the markets.
Think carefully about what to take with you to Spain from medicines. Assemble the optimal first aid kit.
From personal hygiene products - a toothbrush, moisturizer, deodorant. Soap, gels, pastes, shampoos, again, are available in hotels. Or purchase locally.
The rest is at your request. Better yet, get by with the above while saving space for souvenirs 🙂

So, what to bring from Spain from the products?

Extra virgin olive oil: because Spain is ideally suited for the cultivation of the finest olives.

Spices: cinnamon, paprika, nutmeg and, of course, saffron. But for the latter, you will have to pay more money, tk. he is considered the king of Spanish spices and condiments.

Jamon: beloved by gourmets around the world, dried pork hams are hung in the country's butchers' shops, luring tourists with their black (Iberico) or white (Serrano) hoof. How much jamon can you bring from Spain? How much will fit in a suitcase or bag. 🙂 It is advisable to take gastronomic cargo in luggage, if only because the average pork leg will go 6-7 kilograms. And take care of the vacuum packing so as not to inadvertently seduce the porters at the airport with the smell.

Manchego and Cabrales cheeses: the first - aged cheese made from sheep's milk - is the country's national pride. The second - with blue mold - is a national treasure.

Fuett: Continuing the mold theme, once you taste thin pork sausages under a layer of white edible mold, you will know that they are definitely worth a place in your luggage.

Spanish wines: fortified sherry, fruity sangria and sparkling Catalan cava.

Photos from our trip to Barcelona - July 2016

What can you bring back from Spain for a longer memory?

Magnets - to replenish the slim army of these on the fridge or to present to friends and comrades.

A wine wineskin - will come in handy for picnics and out-of-town trips.

Leather products (wallets, gloves, bags, belts) - for their unsurpassed quality.

A lace fan full of local flavor - to fan yourself with a bright souvenir here in Russia, in memories to be transported to hot Spain; and a figurine of a bull - the unofficial symbol of the country, replicated in all shops.

What cosmetics to bring from Spain?

Professional facial care is represented by the brand Natura Bisse, which, oddly enough, is more popular outside the borders of the Kingdom of Spain.

The laurels of the leader in the pharmaceutical segment of cosmetics were given to the Sesderma brand, which successfully competes in the global skin care market.

Lakme products are good for hair. In principle, they are sold in our homeland, but still the country of origin offers a wider assortment at reasonable prices.

For budget Spanish brands, check out Babaria's Natural Care Products and Ninelle's Makeup Products.

What to bring a child from Spain?

Sweets would be a universal option. The most unusual treat in the country is the candied violets, which can be bought in Madrid or near the city.

Girls will love dolls in colorful flamenco dresses, wooden fans, castanets. Boys will be delighted with the ball autographed by Ronaldo, or other football symbols (but also autographed 🙂). You can buy it, as you know, in Madrid.

Throw ideas on what to bring from Barcelona as a gift?

In addition to what we have already described, Barcelona is famous for ... the official store (and at the same time the museum) of FC Barcelona. 🙂 Various paraphernalia for fans - scarves, T-shirts, sports uniforms, etc. - snapped up here!

Wander through the shops and workshops in the back streets of the city, craft fairs and exhibitions at central squares... There are also many interesting souvenirs from Barcelona to be found here.

In short, dare, plan and implement! A stay in Barcelona is worth it. 🙂

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In addition, it is a significant seaport in the Mediterranean, a large commercial and industrial center of the EU.

Barcelona is the capital of the Mediterranean Union, which includes more than four dozen states. This city hosted the Summer Olympics-92, various sports competitions of European and world level were held here.

Geography

Barcelona is located in the northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. The Pyrenees Mountains are located more than 100 km north of the capital of Catalonia. Nearby are the Kolserope mountains, which are the boundaries of the city.

Barcelona lies on a hilly area, each hill gave names to its quarters: Carmel, Monterols, Puchet, Rovira, Peyra, etc. They all have their own cultural, historical and architectural attractions.

Climate

Barcelona has a Mediterranean climate. There are dry winters, similar to our Indian summer, and mild warm summers with warm rains. It is coldest here in January and February - about + 10C. The warmest season is the second half of summer - about + 25C.

Most of the rain falls in the city in October, and the least in July. This climate is ideal for a tourist holiday, there is never sweltering heat or frost here.

History

There are two main legends about the origin of Barcelona. The first one says that the city was founded by the famous hero of ancient Greek myths Hercules in the XI century BC, and then it was rebuilt in the III century BC. Carthaginian Barca, father of Hannibal.

The second legend excludes Hercules from the founders of Barcelona and says that it was the Carthaginian Barca who was the first founder of this city and named it Barcino after his own family.

By the beginning of our era, Barcelona had become a Roman colony, gradually richer at the expense of its harbor, minted its own coins and settled down. The beautiful Roman buildings have survived here to this day.

In the 5th century, the city was conquered by the Visigoths and became the capital of their kingdom. After a short time, Barcelona was conquered by other barbarians - the Ostrogoths. And two centuries later, in the 7th century, the Moors came here.

And in the IX century Barcelona was conquered by the son of the King of the Franks Charlemagne and appointed here his earl, who proclaimed the independence of Catalonia. Then the confederation of Catalonia and Aragon was formed, and in the 17th century - the Catalan Republic.

In the 18th century, the battle of Spain for Catalonia began. Philip V took over Barcelona, destroyed most of the city, and banned the Catalan language. Then Catalonia was annexed to France, and after the fall of Napoleon it returned to Spain.

In the 20th century, during the Spanish Civil War, the Catalan language was again banned in Catalonia. The protests in the seventies of the XX century led to the revival of the language and the permission to use it in everyday life. Today there are 7 universities in Barcelona.

Transport

There is an international airport a few kilometers from Barcelona, it is the second largest in Spain and the largest in the Mediterranean. The airport is connected to Barcelona by metro, rail and expressway.

The seaport of Barcelona has a history of 2,000 years. It is engaged in sea transportation of passengers and cargo, is growing rapidly, and in the near future its area should double.

Barcelona is the most important railway center in Spain. There are several large railway stations here. There are expressways in the country railways, incl. passing through Barcelona.

Public transport in Barcelona is represented by the metro with 11 lines (city and private). Metro lines connect the city with its suburbs, they are located underground and on its surface.

The networks of city buses and trams are owned by private companies. All city transport is adapted for disabled people. Taxi drivers in Barcelona work mainly under private licenses. There is a practice of renting a car.

Beaches

Sant Sebastia beach

It is the most popular beach in Barcelona for tourists and locals alike, although it is quite far from the city center. The beach is located in a cozy and clean bay and has all the necessary beach equipment, incl. for invalids.

Sant Miguel beach

Once there was a church with the same name, but today there is a small but very comfortable beach. It is located almost in the center of Barcelona, so it continues to gain popularity.

Bogatel beach

And this beach is located further from the center, so it is not so noisy on it. But here is a very clean and well-groomed area, free showers and entrance to the beach, cafes and restaurants with excellent Catalan cuisine, etc.

Levant beach

This is the furthest beach from the city center. It opened just a few years ago, but already has all the necessary infrastructure for comfortable rest... The service is excellent and there are relatively few visitors.

Mar Bella beach

This beach was opened for the Olympics-92 and almost immediately attracted tourists and residents of Barcelona. Here sports fans will find entertainment for themselves. The famous yacht club in the city is located nearby. Nudists rest nearby.

Barcelonetta beach

This is the oldest beach in the city. However, the age did not affect its quality in any way, so the beach is extremely popular. It was recently completely renovated, so it is now considered the cleanest and safest in the city.

sights

Gothic Quarter

In this part of Barcelona, most of the monuments of history and architecture have been preserved, built here during the Ancient Rome, as well as Gothic buildings erected in the Middle Ages and Modern Times. A great place for excursions.

Olimpic village

A modern landmark of the city, built for the 92 Olympics. Here you can visit the Olympic port, take a yacht along the harbor, visit two skyscrapers where athletes lived, etc.

Plaza Catalunya

This is the beginning of the New City of Barcelona, built during the reign of Queen Isabella II. The square is located on the border with the Gothic Quarter, and further from it there are quarters built along straight and perpendicular lines, with outgoing highways.

The aquarium is the world's longest glass tunnel, passing through which you can observe the life of fish, animals and other inhabitants of the sea. It is also the largest European aquarium.

Sagrada Familia

This Catholic cathedral was designed by the great Antoni Gaudi. The temple is supported only by donations from individuals. One of the most popular architectural landmarks in the world.

Rambla street

The famous boulevard of Barcelona, where tourists and residents of Barcelona stroll in the evenings. There are many street cafes, souvenir shops, performances by street artists, etc.

Mila's house

Another great landmark in the city, created by Gaudí. This house is considered a symbol of Barcelona, its business card... On the lower floors, ordinary people live in the house, and a museum is located upstairs.

Casa Batlló

Another work of Antoni Gaudi, a real masterpiece of a brilliant architect. In fact, this is the beginning of his independent path, the first unique creation, the ideas of which were later used by Gaudi in other projects.

Spanish village

This is a large open-air museum that contains reconstructions of dwellings from Catalonia, Andalusia, Galicia, Aragon and other Spanish regions in which the Spaniards lived during the Middle Ages.

This famous monument with an observation deck at the top is located on the Rambla. It was to the old port of Barcelona that Columbus arrived after his famous campaign that ended with the discovery of America.

Entertainment

Barcelona has a very vibrant nightlife that you should definitely get to know, first with a guide, and then on your own. It is best to avoid the touristy routes and wander the back streets of the Old Town and the Gothic Quarter.

Here you can find old pubs with their own unique history, bohemian bars, which were visited by Picasso and Dali, drinking establishments serving excellent craft beer, and other "hot" places.

Excursions

There are hundreds of famous excursions in Barcelona from professional guides to help you:

get a general idea of the city;
learn more about its history and architecture;
enjoy Catalan museums and art;
taste local cuisine, etc.

Who is this resort for?

Of course, Barcelona, as a resort, is intended for people of the European middle class and wealthier segments of the population. The prices are quite high here, because this is one of best resorts Europe.