Barcelona is an open-air museum. La Rambla, one of the city's landmark areas, is a bustling boulevard of flower stalls and street artists. The Old Town comprises the Ribera and Raval districts, and the Gothic Quarter, which is considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval enclaves in the world.

"Another must-see is the Eixample district, where you can admire masterpieces such as the Sagrada Família or La Pedrera, among other marvels by Antoni Gaudí and the architects of Catalan art nouveau, modernisme."

The beaches of the Olympic Marina and other open spaces including Tibidabo hill and Montjuïc are also a popular choice with visitors and Barcelona contains 68 municipal parks, divided into 12 historic parks, five botanical parks, 45 urban parks and six forest parks.

There are more than 50 museums, showcasing permanent collections by artists such as Picasso, Miró and Tàpies, as well as Romanesque and contemporary art. The city offers a wide range of theatre and entertainments, with internationally renowned companies such as Els Comediants, La Fura del Baus and El Tricicle.

"Barcelona also hosts a selection of famous festivals such as the Summer "Grec" Festival, where theatre, music and dance converge and the city has two major classical music venues, the Palau de la Música and L'Auditori, both of which offer top-quality programmes."

Other things to see and do:

  • - The Ramblas, the mile-long promenade from Placa de Catalunya to the harbour, packed with cafes, shops and street entertainers.
  • - Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's striking unfinished cathedral. For more Gaudi creations, see La Pedrera and Parc Guell.
  • - The Gothic Quarter, off the Ramblas, is a good option for visitors wanting to wander among the historic buildings and relax in tapas bars or outdoor cafes.
  • - Soak up the sun at La Barceloneta, the town beach, with atmospheric old streets of fishing houses behind. Then head to the port, now revamped with bars, cinemas and shops.
  • - Take the funicular from the port to Montjuic – the city's largest green space with fantastic views. There are also museums, theme parks and a castle.
  • - Buy some local hams, cheeses and olives at La Boqueria, the colourful, bustling indoor market on the Ramblas.