What are the main attractions in Barcelona and where to stay nearby

Barcelona is the number one visitor destination in Spain ahead of Madrid, Seville, Granada, Corralejo and Malaga.

Since the regeneration of the city for the Olympics in 1992 its reputation as a friendly, vibrant and interesting city has flourished.

The top five visitor attractions in Barcelona

Basilica of the Sagrada Familia
Only recently completed after years of toil, Gaudi's masterpiece is one of the main visitor attractions in the world, let alone Barcelona. The strange, freeform architecture of the towers have dominated the skyline for some time but now you can also appreciate the interior which is equally impressive. You are advised to reserve tickets in advance and have a look at it by night, it's even more amazing.

Casa Batllo
Gaudi is once again responsible for the extraordinary architecture of this house (one of three which he designed in the city). Best to go along early before all the architect students arrive. A must see building where you can really appreciate the genius of Gaudi.

Gothic Quater (Barri Gotic)
The quaint narrow streets of the Gothic Quater are populated with numerous small shops, cafes, pubs, tapas bars and restaurants as well as art galleries and museums. Put your map in your pocket and loose yourself, spend a day wandering around this charming labyrinth of historic Barcelona and join the locals for a coffee accompanied by a sweet pastrie/chocolate around five in the afternoon.

Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya - MNAC
Set in a beautiful building, the Palau Nacional located on the hill at the Parc de Montjuic this is regarded as the best museum in Catalonia. Free to visit on the 1st Sunday of each month there is a fine ensemble of ancient and modern art displayed in large gallery spaces. Even the view of Barcelona from the balcony is worth savouring.

CosmoCaixa
Discover the Sant Gervasio area and a great science museum well adapted for families with children. An inexpensive attraction set in an attractive building with a nice garden area where you can enjoy a picnic. Displays include the jungle green house, dinosaur exhibits and temporary themes such as the recent Mediterranean one, this is lots of interaction for the kids.

There are many other attractions in this fascinating city including the famous Las Ramblas, the fashionable El Born neighbourhood, the Palace of Catalan music, the legendary Camp Nou stadium of Barcelona FC, the Parc de Montjuic and the Park Guell a UNESCO world heritage site.

Barcelona is a busy place and from a family holiday point of view its nice to visit for a day to start with, best of all from the base of a relaxing holiday house in the Catalan countryside or a villa with pool on the Costa Brava by the beach.

The hills and indeed the mountains (the Pyrenees) of Catalonia offer much to savour as does the coast with its red rock cliffs and creeks along with its long sandy beaches. Barcelona is the jewel in the crown though places like Gerona and Figueres are of interest too.

From our range of villas in Barcelona area the one that stands out most is the MAT850 Terra Alta which is a superb architect designed, five star villa with private pool accommodating 10 people, located just a short drive from the beach and pretty seaside village of Tamariu, prices range from 3385€ to 4990€ for the week.

Our range of villas in Catalonia and the Costa Brava, (near enough to Barcelona for a day trip) was first established over 15 years ago and it has grown steadily ever since as we carefully add hand picked properties, selected to ensure satisfaction.

See all of our villas near Barcelona on the Villas du Monde - Villas Worldwide website. You can call free of charge or email your requirements and questions to our experienced holiday advisors who will help you make the right choices.