Barcelona is synonymous with modernism and avant-garde aesthetics.\u00a0 Sagrada Familia<\/strong> is an ideal starting point for checking out the city\u2019s architecture. It was designed by the architect Antonio Gaud\u00ed and is still under construction today. However, when finished, it will be the tallest Christian church in Europe.<\/p>\n According to the official website, work on the temple is expected to be finished in 2026. Sagrada Familia is one of the most visited monuments in Spain and is listed as a Cultural Asset of National Interest.<\/p>\n There\u2019s always a long queue, so make sure to buy your ticket well in advance.<\/p>\n Park G\u00fcell<\/strong> is another of Antonio Gaud\u00ed\u2019s works. This 17 hectare park is distinctive for its many colourful mosaics, columns in the form of animals and structural solutions rooted in the analysis of geometry. Everything here is inspired by nature. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a place with an important political and religious symbolism.<\/p>\n Casa Batll\u00f3<\/strong> is another of Gaud\u00ed\u2019s masterpieces and a key piece of modernist architecture. This former residence of the family of the same name is located in the centre of the city.<\/p>\n Barcelona also has other renowned architectural works such as the Gothic style Barcelona Cathedral<\/strong> with its impressive facade. At certain times, visitors have access to the crypt where the sarcophagus of Saint Eulalia rests. She is one of the two patron saints of Barcelona and was martyrized in the year 304 AD for defending her Christian faith.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Let\u2019s begin with one of the city\u2019s most authentic neighbourhoods. Barceloneta<\/strong> has a maritime past, lots of history and huge beaches. The best way to discover it is by wandering through its many narrow streets. Remember to try some fresh fish in one of the bars or restaurants! Another popular attraction is the cable car that takes you from the beach right up to the Mirador de Miramar, where you can enjoy incredible views of the city.<\/p>\n The Gothic Quarter<\/strong> is one area you can\u2019t miss on a visit to Barcelona. This is the oldest part of the city and still retains a labyrinthine street plan with many tourist attractions such as the cathedral, Pla\u00e7a Reial and shopping streets. It stretches from Las Ramblas to Via Laietana, and from Paseo de Col\u00f3n to Pla\u00e7a Catalunya.<\/p>\n Next stop, one of the busiest streets in the city, Las Ramblas<\/strong>., well, it\u2019s actually a series of five shorter tree-lined pedestrian streets that\u2019s always full of tourists, street entertainment and stalls selling flowers, knick-knacks and souvenirs. The world-famous Boquer\u00eda Market<\/strong>, one of the city\u2019s foremost tourist landmarks, is also located on Las Ramblas.<\/p>\n Not far from Las Ramblas you have Barcelona\u2019s most bohemian neighbourhood, El Raval<\/strong>, which previously known as Barrio Chino. Today, multiculturalism is the dominant feature. This is a great place for shopping, sampling food from the four corners of the globe and it\u2019s also home to the Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona. Unfortunately, it has had some security concerns in recent times, so should be avoided late at night.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Barcelona is one of the most important capitals in Spain. It\u2019s also a beach city. A dualism that makes it a nirvana of sorts for those looking to discover the city\u2019s hidden charms and enjoy long days lounging in the sun.<\/p>\n Let\u2019s take a look at some of the most popular beaches:<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bluebayresorts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Sag.-Familia-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\nCharming neighbourhoods<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bluebayresorts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Barrio-g%C3%B3tico.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/h2>\n
Let\u2019s hit the <\/strong>beach<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bluebayresorts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/playastsebastia.jpg\")
<\/p>\n