Barcelona or Madrid?

Comparing Madrid and Barcelona to help you choose your perfect Spanish city break!

By Go City Expert
Published: July 18, 2024
Madrid and Barcelona from above

Barcelona or Madrid?

By Mia Russell

Spain, a land of rich culture, delectable cuisine and captivating landscapes, offers two of its most enchanting cities for you to explore: Madrid and Barcelona. Each possesses a distinct personality and a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.

But when it comes to choosing your Spanish escape, the main question is: Madrid or Barcelona? Whether you're drawn to Madrid's artistic allure or Barcelona's sun-soaked beaches, both iconic destinations offer unique flavors, sights and experiences.

 

What are the similarities between Barcelona and Madrid?

Barcelona or Madrid

When exploring the dynamic Spanish cities of Barcelona and Madrid, you'll discover that despite their individual identities, they share several intriguing similarities. Here's a glimpse into these common threads that weave through the rich tapestry of both cities.

Artistic enclaves

One striking similarity is their devotion to the arts. Both Madrid and Barcelona boast world-class cultural institutions that draw art enthusiasts from around the globe. Madrid is celebrated for its prestigious art museums, such as the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, housing a treasure trove of masterpieces.

Meanwhile, Barcelona takes pride in its architectural wonders, crafted by the visionary Antoni Gaudí. The awe-inspiring Sagrada Família, Park Güell and Casa Batlló are just a few of the architectural gems that make Barcelona an artistic haven.

Medieval charms

Barcelona or Madrid

Both cities also share the enchantment of their well-preserved Medieval centers. In Madrid, you can meander through the historic streets of the Austrias neighborhood lined with centuries-old buildings and beautiful plazas.

Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, on the other hand, boasts a labyrinth of narrow alleys and squares, culminating at the breathtaking Gothic Cathedral. Strolling through these cobblestone streets is like stepping into a living history book, regardless of whether you are in Madrid or Barcelona.

Tapas traditions

Spain's culinary delights are yet another common thread that binds these cities. While the tapas culture is cherished throughout Spain, Madrid, and Barcelona each offer their unique twists on these delectable small plates. Use your pass to enjoy a Tapas Tasting and Gothic Quarter Tour with delicious pintxos at the end of your tour.

Embark on a tapas adventure along the lively Calle de las Huertas in Madrid, where traditional tapas bars line the streets.

Barcelona's tapas scene is a bit more dispersed, with the bustling El Born district as a go-to spot. Whether you're savoring Madrid's patatas bravas or Barcelona's fresh seafood tapas, the flavors of Spain are bound to leave your taste buds delighted.

 

What are the differences between Barcelona and Madrid?

As you explore the vibrant Spanish cities of Barcelona and Madrid, you'll quickly notice that while they share some commonalities, they also boast distinct characteristics that set them apart. Here are some of the notable differences between these two dynamic destinations:

 

Architectural marvels

Barcelona or Madrid

Barcelona is renowned for its avant-garde architecture, largely shaped by the visionary Antoni Gaudí. His masterpieces, such as the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, define the cityscape with their whimsical and organic designs.

Madrid showcases a more classical and regal architectural style, epitomized by landmarks like the Royal Palace and the elegant boulevards of the Gran Vía. The architectural contrast between the two cities reflects their distinct historical influences.

Art and culture

While both cities celebrate the arts, they have different emphases. Madrid takes pride in its world-class art museums, including the Prado, which houses an extensive collection of European art.

On the other hand, Barcelona is synonymous with artistic innovation and is home to institutions like the Joan Miró Foundation and the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA). The creative vibe in Barcelona leans toward modern and avant-garde expressions, whereas Madrid focuses on classical and historical works.

Beaches and coastal vibes

Barcelona or Madrid

Barcelona's Mediterranean location grants it access to picturesque beaches along the city's coastline. The golden sands of Barceloneta Beach and the seaside promenades offer a unique coastal charm. Madrid, situated inland, doesn't have a beach, but it compensates with its lively urban atmosphere and vibrant street life.

 

Nightlife and dining

Barcelona or Madrid

Barcelona's nightlife is renowned for its beachfront clubs and vibrant outdoor bars, especially in neighborhoods like Barri Gòtic and El Raval. Madrid, however, boasts a diverse and eclectic nightlife scene that spans everything from traditional tapas bars to cutting-edge clubs. The city's neighborhoods, like Malasaña and Chueca, are known for their lively nightlife.

Language and culture

Catalan and Spanish are the official languages in Barcelona, reflecting the region's unique identity. You'll often hear both languages spoken; many signs are in Catalan. Spanish is the primary language in Madrid, and you'll find that the city embodies the heart of Spanish culture.

 

Regional cuisine

Barcelona or Madrid

Spanish cuisine is diverse, and each region has its specialties. While both cities offer an array of culinary delights, Barcelona's proximity to the sea influences its seafood-based dishes, such as paella and seafood tapas.

As the capital, Madrid offers a broader representation of regional Spanish cuisine, including hearty dishes like cocido madrileño (a stew) and the famous bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich).

These differences between Barcelona and Madrid add to the allure of exploring both cities, allowing you to experience the richness of Spain's diverse cultural landscape. Whether you prefer Barcelona's architectural wonders or Madrid's classical elegance, each city offers a unique and unforgettable Spanish adventure.

 

Top things to do in Barcelona

Barcelona, a vibrant jewel on Spain's northeastern coast, offers an array of experiences that will enchant every traveler. From iconic architectural wonders to delightful culinary adventures, here are the top things to do in Barcelona that promise to make your visit unforgettable:

 

Barcelona or Madrid
  • Sagrada Família: begin your Barcelona journey at the awe-inspiring Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí's masterpiece. The basilica's surreal architecture, intricate facades, and ethereal interior will leave you spellbound. Use your pass to enjoy skip-the-line access and a guided basilica tour with an experienced, arts-trained guide.
  • Park Güell: explore the whimsical world of Park Güell, another Gaudí creation. Wander through the colorful mosaics, playful sculptures, and lush gardens while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Use your pass to get skip-the-ticket-line entry to the park and an experienced, arts-trained guide.
Barcelona or Madrid
  • La Ramblas: stroll down La Rambla, Barcelona's famous tree-lined boulevard. This bustling promenade boasts street performers, shops, cafes, and lively markets like La Boqueria. Use your pass to explore several markets on a free walking tour of Barcelona.
  • Gothic Quarter: immerse yourself in history at the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), a maze of narrow streets, medieval buildings, and hidden squares. Don't miss the Barcelona Cathedral and the Plaça Reial. Use your pass to enjoy a three-hour walking tour of the Gothic Quarter and the Old City.
  • Casa Batlló and Casa Milà: explore Gaudí's architectural brilliance further by visiting Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. These modernist marvels showcase Gaudí's innovative designs and attention to detail. Use your pass for free admission to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Barcelona or Madrid
  • Magic Fountain of Montjuïc: witness the magical light and music show at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. This enchanting spectacle takes place against the backdrop of the National Palace. Use your pass to enjoy a free two-hour walking tour of Barcelona's Montjuïc district.
  • Picasso Museum: discover the early works of the iconic artist Pablo Picasso at the Picasso Museum. The collection includes thousands of pieces that provide insight into his artistic evolution. Use your pass for free admission to the museum and a one-hour walking tour with an expert guide.
  • Beaches: soak up the Mediterranean sun at Barcelona's beautiful beaches, such as Barceloneta and Bogatell. Relax on the golden sands, dip in the sea, or enjoy beachfront dining.
Barcelona or Madrid
  • Montserrat: take a day trip to Montserrat, a stunning mountain range with a Benedictine monastery perched on its cliffs. The breathtaking views and spiritual ambiance make it a memorable excursion. Use your pass for a free bus ticket to Montserrat.
  • Camp Nou: if you're a football fan, don't miss a visit to Camp Nou, home to FC Barcelona. Explore the museum, walk through the stadium, and feel the passion of Catalonia's football culture.
  • Flamenco shows: experience the soul-stirring art of flamenco with a live performance. Several venues in Barcelona offer passionate and authentic shows.
  • Tapas and dining: savor the delectable world of Spanish cuisine with tapas. Try traditional dishes like patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and paella at local tapas bars and restaurants.

Barcelona's charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend modernity with tradition, offering a taste of Catalonia's rich culture at every corner. Whether wandering the Gothic Quarter's historic streets or marveling at Gaudí's architectural wonders, this city promises an unforgettable adventure.

 

Top things to do in Madrid

Barcelona or Madrid

Madrid, the vibrant heart of Spain, beckons you with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and dynamic experiences. From majestic palaces to bustling markets and delectable cuisine, here are the top things to do in Madrid to ensure your visit is nothing short of spectacular:

  • Royal Palace: begin your Madrid journey at the Royal Palace (Palacio Real), an opulent masterpiece that reflects Spanish royalty's grandeur. Wander through its sumptuous rooms, opulent halls, and the charming Sabatini Gardens. Use your pass to enjoy free entry and a 90-minute tour of the palace.
  • Puerta del Sol: visit Puerta del Sol, Madrid's bustling central square. Admire the iconic Tio Pepe neon sign, the bear and strawberry tree statue, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Use your pass to enjoy a Madrid Sightseeing Segway Tour and take in all the city's sights.
  • Prado Museum: immerse yourself in art at the Prado Museum, home to a staggering collection of European masterpieces by artists like Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Use your pass for a skip-the-line guided tour of the museum.
Barcelona or Madrid
  • Retiro Park: escape the urban bustle at Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro). Stroll along tree-lined paths, row a boat on the lake, and admire the stunning Crystal Palace. Use your pass to join a guided bike tour of the park.
  • Plaza Mayor: discover the grandeur of Plaza Mayor, a historic square surrounded by charming cafes and vibrant street life. It's an ideal spot for people-watching.
  • Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: explore the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, a treasure trove of art spanning from the Middle Ages to the present, showcasing works by artists from around the world. Use your pass for free entry to the museum.
  • Gran Vía: take a leisurely walk along Gran Vía, Madrid's main shopping and entertainment street. Marvel at the iconic buildings and indulge in retail therapy.
Barcelona or Madrid
  • Tapas: savor the culinary delights of Madrid with tapas. Sample classic dishes like patatas bravas, Spanish omelette (tortilla española), and jamón ibérico at local tapas bars.
  • Mercado de San Miguel: visit the Mercado de San Miguel, a food market housed in an exquisite iron structure. Try a variety of Spanish delicacies and tapas.
  • Flamenco Show: immerse yourself in the passion and rhythm of Spain with a flamenco show. Madrid boasts numerous venues where you can experience this captivating art form.

Bernabeu Stadium: if you're a football enthusiast, tour the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, the home of Real Madrid. Explore the stadium's museum and relish its football history. Use your pass to enjoy free admission to the stadium.

  • Neighborhoods: wander through diverse neighborhoods like Malasaña, Chueca, and La Latina, each with its unique character, offering quirky shops, trendy bars, and charming plazas.

Madrid invites you to dive headfirst into its spirited culture, indulge in culinary delights, and immerse yourself in art and history. With its vibrant atmosphere and boundless energy, the Spanish capital promises a memorable adventure that will leave you captivated and longing to return.

 

Final thoughts

In the captivating showdown between Barcelona and Madrid, it's evident that both cities are definitely worth a visit!

With its artistic marvels and coastal charms, Barcelona beckons with the allure of Antoni Gaudí's architectural wonders and the Mediterranean's soothing embrace. Conversely, Madrid takes pride in its regal elegance, world-class art museums and vibrant urban life that pulses through its historic streets.

Whether you find yourself savoring tapas at a bustling market in Barcelona or wandering through the grandeur of Madrid's Royal Palace, each city promises a journey rich in culture, history, and unforgettable experiences. The choice between these Spanish gems ultimately depends on your preferences and the adventure you seek.

Barcelona entices with its avant-garde art, architectural treasures, and beachside relaxation—a Mediterranean dream that speaks to the soul of Catalonia. With its classic charm, impressive museums, and lively neighborhoods, Madrid embodies the essence of Spain's dynamic capital.

In the end, there's no definitive winner in the Barcelona versus. Madrid debate because the true victor is you—the traveler who has the privilege of experiencing the best of both worlds. Whether you are swept away by Barcelona's artistic fervor or captivated by Madrid's regal splendor, your Spanish adventure will make memories you'll carry long after you get back home again.

So grab a Barcelona pass and see for yourself!

Go City Expert
Go City Travel Expert

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Montserrat Barcelona

Heading to Barcelona for your vacation and wondering what adventures lie outside the city? How does scaling a holy mountain and exploring its history sound? Montserrat's the name, and stunning views, beautiful architecture, and opportunities to explore is its game. So, grab your hiking boots, pack plenty of water, and get ready to climb! Here we'll tell you everything you need to know about Montserrat - how to get there, what you'll find, and why it's one of Barcelona's most beautiful destinations! Enjoy! Including: What is Montserrat Why you should visit Montserrat How to get to Montserrat from Barcelona What to do in Montserrat What is Monsterrat? Montserrat is a mountain range near Barcelona. They both reside in the Catalonia region of Spain, which has a unique language, culture, and customs. Due to the mountain's jagged appearance, the range was coined Montserrat, or 'saw mountain'. The mountain holds religious significance to the particularly Catholic Catalonia, thanks to the Santa Maria de Montserrat - a Benedictine monastery that sits atop it. Why visit Montserrat? Whether you're religious or not, the views you'll see at the peak of Montserrat are unsurpassed. You can see for miles, including the Barcelona skyline and the surrounding lands. It's truly breathtaking, and almost demands to be pictured. Also, if you're adept at hiking and want to get your sweat on, feel free to challenge yourself to climb it on foot. It's not the easiest way to the top, but it's surely the most rewarding! However, at over 4000ft high, you need to be prepared, both physically and materially, to scale it. A thick set of boots, plenty of water, and a map will do you a world of good! Getting to Montserrat from Barcelona Assuming you're staying in the center of Barcelona, there are a few ways to get to Montserrat. Firstly, you can hire a car and make the hour-long journey at your own pace. Easy enough. Or, if you fancy a drive but don't fancy getting behind the wheel, why not try an Amigo Tours bus tour from the city? The air-conditioned bus ensures you'll have a pleasant journey, and there will be plenty of photo ops from your seat as you make the climb. Alternatively, you can make the trip by train. Simply take the R5 line from Placa Espanya to Monistrol de Montserrat for an hour, change onto the Cremallera train (it's green, you can't miss it), and that'll take you to the top. Or, for the daring hikers among you, take the train to Monistrol de Montserrat and walk the winding trails up to the mountaintop. It's about a half-hour walk, but as it's a climb, it'll likely feel like you've walked a lot longer! Just be sure you've got gas in the tank and the body to handle it; the last thing you want is to get halfway up and realize you can't finish the journey! And finally, perhaps the most memorable trip would be by cable car. Like above, you get the train from Placa Espanya, but this time get off one stop early at Aeri de Montserrat. From there, you can hop in the cable car and enjoy some of the greatest views on Earth as you ascend. Things to do in Montserrat Once you've made the trip - however you've chosen to do so - you'll find plenty of things to do on Montserrat! Let's start with the views. My god, the views. Rolling mountains as far as the eye can see, the Catalan metropolis of Barcelona in the distance, and where the stunning blue sky meets the mountaintops. If you're the photo type, you'll be all over this. Then, there's Santa Maria de Montserrat, the Benedictine monastery that draws many a pilgrimage from the surrounding area. At well over a thousand years old, it's suitably ancient in its design, yet remarkable it's still standing! You can head inside and look around, though, given its popularity, you may be waiting some time unless you get there early. You can also visit the Montserrat Museum, which opened at the beginning of the 20th-century. Inside, you'll learn all about the mountain's history, discover artifacts from ancient cultures, and enjoy artwork from the likes of Monet and Degas. By the museum, you'll find Mirador Restaurant, where you can get a tasty 3-course meal for a reasonable price. And, if you're looking for some stunning sculpture to snap, right next door to the restaurant, you'll find the Stairway to Heaven. This set of 9 concrete blocks ascends towards the heavens like a staircase, hence the name, and represents the climb pilgrims make to reach this holy place, as well as their eventual climb to the heavens. And no, you can't climb on it. At least not anymore, as a fence has been erected to deter would-be spelunkers from falling to their death. You could visit the Santa Cova Chapel, a beautiful holy place built into the mountain that's about an hour's round trip from the monastery. It's here where the revered Virgin of Montserrat, a thousand-year-old Byzantine statue of the Mary and Jesus, was housed. Miracles of healing have been attributed to her, though you'll not be able to test those on yourself! From the chapel, you can make your way around the mountain to another of Montserrat's picture-perfect landmarks - Sant Miquel's Cross. This towering monument to Christianity also has great views of the lands below, so ideal for your socials! If you dare to climb higher, leave the touristy stuff behind and attempt to ascend Sant Jeroni. It's Montserrat's highest peak, so it's no small feat. if that sounds like your idea of fun, head to the Funicular Se Dant Joan, climb the stair to the observation deck, and get hiking! And that's everything you need to know about Montserrat! Looking for more fun in Barcelona? We've got tons of articles all about the city's best bits, from Beaches to Museums and everything in between. So get reading and make the most of your precious vacation time!
Dom Bewley
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Sagrada Familia

Gaudí is one of the world's most famous architects. Such was his influence at the beginning of the 20th-century, you'll find his work all over his native Barcelona. His greatest achievement is undoubtedly La Sagrada Familia, a huge monument to Gaudí's faith. So, let's take a deep dive into La Sagrada Familia, and discover why it absolutely has to be on your itinerary! What is La Sagrada Familia? To put it simply, La Sagrada Familia is a temple that was designed by world-famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. It was considered his Magnum Opus, but he was unable to finish it before his death more than 100 years ago. To this day, the monument has yet to be finished, and work continues to this day. Who was Antoni Gaudí? Antoni Gaudí i Cornet was a Catalan architect born in 1852. His unique style, characterized by the marriage of neo-Gothic art, Oriental art techniques, and a fascination with nature and the human body, led the Catalan Modernism movement. A Barcelona local, his creations are found predominantly in the city. Rather than working from sketches, Gaudí preferred creating detailed 3D models of his would-be buildings before construction. This often meant more time spent in pre-production than many other architects of his time, but is likely part of the reason his works remain so unique to this day. History of La Sagrada Família The idea for La Sagrada Familia was conceived in 1872, after bookseller and prominent religious organizer Josep Maria Bocabella returned from the Vatican. After seeing the Basilica Della Santa Casa, or Basilica of the Holy House), he wanted to create a similar church in Barcelona. Josep approached famed Catalan architect Francisco de Paula del Villar, who planned to create an authentic Gothic revival church. Work began in 1882, but Villar only oversaw the creation of the apse crypt before resigning from his position in 1883. That's when our man Gaudí stepped in. After radically redesigning the building, work continued, and he was appointed architect director one year later. But Gaudí knew his design would take many years to come to fruition. Thankfully, Josep didn't mind this; the work, and the time it would take to finish it, would speak for itself. However, nearly forty years later, only 20% of the work was complete. And worse yet, Gaudí soon passed away, leaving his understudy Domènec Sugrañes i Gras to carry on in his stead. In fact, both Gaudí and Maria Bocabella are the only two people to be laid to rest in the crypt. Then, tragedy struck. The Spanish Civil War led to parts of the building being destroyed and the plans being badly burnt. Therefore, once the war was over, it took over 15 years to reconstruct his original plans from early concepts and undamaged sections. In the years since, many architects have taken control of the project. And now, nearly 150 years after the project was conceived, it's almost complete. La Sagrada Familia design and influences Every inch of the church is symbolic of important elements of Christianity. Originally, eighteen spires were planned, symbolizing Jesus, his twelve disciples, the Virgin Mary, and the four Evangelists (Luke, Mathew, John, and Mark). However, to date, only nine have been completed. A religious man himself, Gaudí insisted that the largest spire, dedicated to Jesus, be shorter than Montjuïc Hill, so as not to surpass divine creation. The three grand façades are similarly dedicated to important moments in the faith; the Nativity represents the birth of Jesus and life itself, the Passion of his sacrifice, and the Glory of his everlasting reign. Each has its fair share of iconic imagery, ranging from life-affirming to torment. The interior of the church is a feast for the eyes, with geometric shapes intersecting throughout the pillars and the ceiling. No single surface is flat, as abstract shapes undulate with curves, twists, and jagged edges. Gaudí's style influenced the Cubism movement, and you can see as much in the church's design. Visiting La Sagrada Familia La Sagrada Familia is easily one of Barcelona's most prominent tourist spots, with thousands of people visiting the breathtaking building every year. And the best way to see it is by taking a guided tour. Your experienced guide will give you insight into every exciting part of its design, from inside to out. They'll unravel every hidden element of symbolism not covered above, and leave you with a newfound appreciation for Gaudí's work. However, as one of the city's most visited places, you have to book ahead if you want to get a spot. And expect to be among crowds, which has taken on a whole new meaning after recent events! If you'd rather skip all that and see the church from a different perspective, why not take a Virtual 360 tour of the building without even setting a foot inside? Thanks to the power of virtual reality technology, you can explore every surface up close, all while standing outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle of the church's innards! What would Gaudí think about that? We're sure he'd be impressed. Other Gaudí Highlights Of course, La Sagrada Familia is just one of Gaudí's many creations in Barcelona! You could stroll around Park Güell and see his many unique creations, including the salamander mosaic El Drac, and ascend the rib-like staircase to the Porter's Lodge. Why not visit Casa Batlló? It's a homestead turned tourist attraction that's often considered the epitome of Gaudí's finished works. Or, take a trip to the ghoulish-looking La Pedrera, with its limestone-chiseled walls mimicking bleached bone. Alternatively, go back to where it all began at Casa Vicens, Gaudí's first-ever architectural work. Perhaps this all seems a bit pedestrian? If you want to see Gaudí's creations through a different lens, head to the Gaudí Experience 4D and take a breathtaking digital ride through his life, times, and influences. If getting to all of these on your vacation seems a struggle, board a hop-on hop-off bus tour and get to them all in a single day! And that's everything you need to know about La Sagrada Familia!
Dom Bewley
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Things to do in Barcelona for Adults

  Family holidays can be fun. It’s great to share new places and experiences with young children and teenagers too. But sometimes...whether you’re planning a friends’ weekend away, a romantic city break, a solo sojourn, or a group holiday... sometimes we all just need a little... grown-up time. Foodies, fun-seekers, hipsters or history buffs need look no further for the best things to do in Barcelona, as we bring you adult activities where you can kick back, knowing, on this trip at least, there’s no kids allowed!   Best beer in Barcelona? Let’s raise a glass to the best adult activities in Barcelona and begin our adventures at the Estrella Damm brewery tour. Learn about the origins of Spain’s oldest brewery where beer is still brewed to the original 1876 recipe. Visit the Kettle Room, the Power Generating Room and the Historical Archive and, best of all, sample four refreshing Mediterranean beers. Cheers! (or Salud! - as they say in Spain.)   Get a taste for tapas Keep on tickling your tastebuds with some delicious traditional treats as you hunt for the best tapas in Barcelona. One of the most popular is a Bomba, a fried potato croquette with meat filling, served with salsa brava (spicy tomato sauce) or alioli (garlic sauce). And you can’t go wrong with patatas bravas or salty Padron peppers. It’s more usual in Barcelona however to snack on pintxos (or pinchos), originating in the Basque country but equally popular in Catalonia. What’s the difference between pintxos and tapas? Whilst tapas is usually a small portion of a main dish, served on a plate to be shared and eaten with cutlery, pinchos tend to be a small snack speared onto a piece of bread with a cocktail stick. The word pincho comes from the verb ‘pinchar’, which means ‘to pierce’. These tiny delicious snacks are intended to be enjoyed with a beer or wine whilst you socialise and chat with friends. Spanish waiters keep track of what you owe from the number of cocktail sticks left on your plate.   Why not take a tour of the Gothic Quarter with pintxos tasting to enjoy sight-seeing and snacks too? Explore the narrow streets and peaceful squares of this ancient district that, by night, transforms into one of Barcelona’s funkiest hang-outs. See Roman ruins, learn about important figures in the city’s history (including the intriguingly named Wilfredo the Hairy) and, at the end, a local guide will lead you to a cosy bar for your pintxos and a well-earned drink.   Discover Barcelona architecture Time to sober up and get serious? Though, in fact, whilst looking at buildings sounds a seriously grown-up pursuit, it’s really pretty fun in Barcelona! From grand Gothic to colourful avant-garde, few other cities blend the old and the new quite so successfully. A Barcelona architecture tour can take you from the largest Art Nouveau building in the world (former hospital Sant Pau Recinte Modernista) to the best Gaudi buildings, including the awe-inspiring Sagrada familia. Drink in the detail of its famous facades, then wend your way to Paseo de Gracia (Passeig de Gràcia in Catalan) to admire the modernist madness of Casa Battló and Casa Mila (otherwise known as La Pedrera).   Best shopping in Barcelona As well as Gaudi architecture, this famous Barcelona shopping street is also home to designer stores and high street names. Happily it’s only one of many places across the city where you can shop, shop, shop, unencumbered by kids. Hit Avenida Diagonal for international luxury brands or Portal del Angel for European fashion chains. And whether you’re looking for for bijou boutiques or big name brands, bookshops or boho independents, you can lose yourself for hours in the winding streets of El Born and the Barrio Gòtic. For designer bargains, hopping aboard the bus to La Roca Village, just outside the city, can see you enjoying savings of up to 60% off usual prices on luxury brands like Desigual, Loewe and Balenciaga and international names including Prada, Burberry, Gucci and Jimmy Choo. Ker-ching!   Bike to the beach With no children to slow you down or worry about, grab a helmet and jump on your bike to get a whole new view of the city, as fast or slow as you fancy. Barcelona boasts over 150km of cycle paths and if you join an experienced guide for a Barcelona bike tour you’ll get to see all the best bits. Whizz through the old town and the Raval neighborhood, pedal your way to another picture of the Sagrada Familia, wheel through the Olympic Village and cruise down to the vibrant harbour at Port Vell. Then park your bike and take a break on Barceloneta beach, looking over the sparkling Mediterranean.   Swish around on a Segway An even more exciting way to travel on two wheels is to sign up for a Barcelona Segway Tour in the picturesque Parc de la Ciutadella. After a briefing on how to operate your new chariot, any initial apprehension is soon overcome and you’ll soon be swooping left and right through more than 40 acres of green space, past the pretty Cascada fountain, the boating lake, Barcelona’s own Arc de Triomf and the 2,000 animal inhabitants of Barcelona zoo.   All aboard for a boat party Whilst we’re down near the waterfront why not see what’s all at sea? There are lots of ways for over-18s to make the most of the marvellous Med, from catamaran rental and daytime barbecue boat trips, to a relaxing sunset sail-boat cruise. Or ramp up the fun at a famous Barcelona boat party. Party boats sail from Port Olimpic every Thursday and Saturday in the summer months, with an onboard bar, DJ and dancefloor. Dance or drink aboard the double-deck boats, where beer, sangria or soft drinks are included in your ticket price. Boat party tickets often also include discounts on entrance and VIP packages at some of the best clubs in Barcelona, including Pacha, Opium and Catwalk.   Best clubs in Barcelona Grown-ups don’t need to worry about bedtime and those beachside clubs that stay open until 6am are among the very best Barcelona nightlife. After you’ve played all day here’s our run-down of where to party all night. Pacha needs no introduction, bringing the Ibiza experience to Barna (as the inhabitants call the city). Its sleek white interior and stunning beach view, but particularly its famous name, attract the very best international DJs. Meanwhile, EDM empire Opium has a huge beach terrace and capacity for 3,000 and is still always packed with beautiful people from around the world. On the far side of town Otto Zutz has the same classy upmarket feel as the beach clubs but without the tourists and is where the stylish locals go for hip hop, R&B, commercial and house hits. In edgy El Raval, depending on your tastes, check out techno temple Moog, or Sala Apolo which has a different vibe every night of the week, through indie, urban, pop and electronic. Sala Razzmatazz, in the industrial area of Poblenou, is Barcelona’s biggest and best known nightclub. Five rooms, featuring every type of music, play host to international DJs and acts who frequently go on to become world famous. Day or night, an Explorer Pass or All Inclusive Pass allows you to make the most of every moment. See more and do more, for less - with Go City.
Jo Cooke

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