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About Lisbon

A naturally beautiful city which is surrounded by and set on seven steep hills (though some say eight!), Lisbon overlooks the Tagus River, the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. Characterized by its laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is known for vibrant culture, history, and architecture as well as for its picture-perfect panoramas.

Lisbon’s neighborhoods are comprised of steep, narrow streets which accommodate its hilly landscape, and the city’s old-world trams and cable elevators connect them. Today, Lisbon is a city of approximately 546,000 residents and is part of a metropolis which comprises close to 3 million inhabitants. Because of Lisbon’s strategic location, it has, historically, been an important seaport for trade between northern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally known as “Olisspo” after Ulysses, one of the heroes of Greek mythology, its name was changed to “El Lisbon” by the Muslims in the 8th century. In 1147, Lisbon was conquered by the Christians and, in 1255, was declared the Portuguese capital. Lisbon’s glory came in the 15th and 16th centuries when it was the center for discovery expeditions to the New World. The Manuelin style of architecture, named after King Manuel I who financed spice trade between India and Africa, developed during this period. A large earthquake in the mid-18th century destroyed most of the buildings from that time, though there are two remaining Manueline style structures - the iconic, 16th century Belem Tower (Torre de Belem), originally built on the edge of the river to protect the city, and the Jeronimos Monastery. The monastery, which was badly damaged from the earthquake but survived, is covered with white marble and stone carvings which glorify Portugal’s pioneering maritime discoveries. Inside, there are tombs and sculptures of kings and two of Portugal’s greatest heroes, Vasco de Gama, the explorer, and Luis de Camoish, Portugal’s national poet. Both structures are now UNESCO World Heritage sites. The medieval Castelo De Sao Jorge fortress stands at the top of Alfama hill, the largest of the city’s seven hills. The castle is built on 5th century Visigoth foundations as well as 9th century Moorish foundations. In the 12th century, after capturing the city from the Moors, Alfonso Enrique added to the structure. From the castle, there is a spectacular view of the city, the river, and the enormous suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril. Another famous look-out point which offers spectacular views is Edward VII Park, named after Britain’s monarch who visited the city in 1903. It is the largest park in Lisbon and extends uphill from Marques de Pombal Square to an open pavilion at the top. Alfama is the heart and soul of Lisbon - a neighborhood dating back to medieval times with a maze of cobbled alleys, hidden courtyards, charming squares, and houses with colorful tiles and iron-railed balconies. It is located at the foot of the castle and is a fun place for a stroll as well as to enjoy the city’s many fado restaurants which serve local specialties and offer fado-style music. The Terreiro do Paco (also known as Praca do Comercio), is located on the riverfront, and is known as one of the most important squares in Lisbon. It served as the royal palace for two centuries prior to being destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Today, it is a pedestrian square from which you can reach the Tagus River. The Chiado and Bairro Alto districts are two archetypal Lisbon neighborhoods. Chiado is trendy with its celebrated cafes, bookshops, boutiques, and theaters, including Lisbon’s opera house. Bairro Alto is the center of the city’s nightlife with its many pubs, clubs, and bars. The LUX club is one of Lisbon’s most famed nightclubs and, with its total capacity of over 3000, has been a favorite spot of the rich and famous. Actor John Malkovich, who shot a movie in Portugal and fell in love with the club, is now a partial owner. The famous restaurant, Bica do Sapato (“the tip of the shoe”), is located adjacent to the club. Luis de Camoish Square, named after the national poet, connects the two districts. Avenida Da Liberdade, the "Portuguese Champs-Elysées,” is a wide boulevard with tall trees and dozens of statues lining it as well as an Egyptian pillar dedicated to Portugal’s independence. The business center of Lisbon, the street is also lined with hotels, banks, cinemas, and international brand stores. Further down the boulevard is Rossio Square with its statue of Dom Pedro IV (who was both the King of Portugal and the Emperor of Brazil) and 2 French- style fountains. Lisbon is home to world-class museums. The Museu Caloute Gulbenkain is located in a lush park and is one of the city’s gems. Much of the museum’s collection came from a wealthy Armenian oil magnate, Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, who endowed his vast, outstanding private art collection to Portugal before he died in 1955. The National Museum of Ancient Art is Portugal’s national gallery which houses a large collection of 15th and 16th century paintings, as well as Oriental, European, and African art. The National Tile Museum, Museu Nacional do Azulejo, houses a unique collection of decorative tiles, known as azulejos, and it traces tile-making from its Moorish and Spanish influences through the rise of Portugal’s unique style. The MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology - which is housed in a converted power station on the waterfront, is an outstanding new cultural center in Lisbon. The 12th century Lisbon Cathedral, located near the Alfama district, is Lisbon’s oldest and most famous church. Originally a Romanesque cathedral, the structure was destroyed in the earthquake and today it blends architectural styles. Its two bell towers are a beautiful part of the city’s skyline. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the Monument of the Discoveries, is located on the banks of the Tagus River estuary– the place from which ships departed for maritime discovery voyages. Designed by 2 Portuguese architects, it is a massive structure in the shape of the prow of a ship which celebrates the Portuguese explorers who established the country’s seafaring prominence. In the interior of the 170-foot high tower, there is an exhibition about the history of Lisbon, and the monument’s viewing platform offers spectacular views. The 1988 World’s Fair Expo was held in Lisbon, and the entire eastern part along the river was renovated and became a showcase for the city’s new and modern architecture. There is a new complex called Park of the Nations (Parquet das Nacoes) which includes the Oriente train station and the Vasco de Gama shopping mall. There are two large towers designed as a giant sail, and the Oceanarium is a huge, popular aquarium with over 8000 sea animals. A train transports visitors between attractions. The village of Sintra is a 30 minute train ride from Lisbon and is a not-to-be-missed day trip. Sintra was a royal resort, and it is home to extraordinary palaces, a Moorish castle, a semi tropical garden, and scenic views. With its combination of captivating tradition and modern touches, Lisbon is a popular destination – and city that many tourists long to return to!

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Lisbon

SANA Malhoa Hotel

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“En-Route” - Sights on the way 464.22 km | 5 hrs 28 mins

About Seville

It is also home to great art, outstanding architecture, colorful flamenco dancing – and let’s not forget its renowned tapas! 

Seville is the fourth largest city in Spain, and it is said to have been founded 2,200 years ago. Home to over 700,000 inhabitants, the city is situated in the lower part of the Guadalajara River, which originates in the northern mountains of Andalusia and flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The city is full of beautiful churches, impressive monuments, and many charming streets and squares, many of which are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The historic Santa Cruz district is the heart of the tourist area and home to the Alcazar Palace - the fortified structure built in the 10th century by the Muslim kings of Córdoba. In the 11th century, the Muslim rulers of Seville added a palace in the western part of the Alcazar, and, in the 14th century, Pedro I added a residential palace for his wives and concubines. The Alcazar is a magnificent palace built in the Mudejar style, and one of the most beautiful in Spain. Also in Santa Cruz is the Seville Cathedral which is located where the Great Mosque stood in the 12th century. Converted to a Christian church in the mid-13th century, it is one of the largest cathedrals in the world and one of the last to be built in the Gothic style, clearly reflecting a Renaissance influence. There are two remnants of the original mosque – the iconic minaret, known as the Giralda (Bell Tower), and the Orange Patio with 66 orange trees. The historic Jewish Quarter, with its narrow streets and orange tree-lined squares is also located here, and today boast charming boutiques and shops selling crafts, ceramics, and other souvenirs. Seville is also home to green parks, and the most celebrated is Maria Luisa Park with its beautiful gardens and fountains. The park was designed for the International Exhibition in 1929, and it is adjacent to the famous Plaza Espania. Plaza de America is located in the park, as well, where the city’s magnificent archaeological museum is now housed. One of the most innovative and unique landmarks in the city is the Metropol Parasol (“the Mushrooms of Seville”), one of the largest wooden structures in the world. A modern architectural wonder, it consists of six parasols in the shape of mushrooms, and it combines an archaeological museum, a covered farmers' market, a public square, restaurants, and an elevated promenade. Alongside its rich history, Seville is a fun, bustling city with a lively nightlife, festive parades, and annual fairs – such as the Seville Fair (Feria de Abril) -that attract tourists from all over Spain. Don’t miss out on the renowned tapas – an integral part of the city’s culture, you’ll find tapas bars scattered throughout the city. With its rich history and culture, Seville is truly the place to experience authentic Spain!

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Seville

Hotel Kivir

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“En-Route” - Sights on the way 140.58 km | 1 hr 54 mins

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Cordoba

ALHAJAS DE CORDOBA

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“En-Route” - Sights on the way 172.64 km | 2 hrs 33 mins

About Granada

Situated approximately 2421 feet above sea level, Granada is perched against the background of the snowy Sierra Nevada Mountains while also being close to the famous beaches of the Costa del Sol. All these features, combined with its comfortable climate, make Granada an attractive destination for tourists.

Granada was the last stronghold of the Muslims in Spain, and the huge complex of remaining palaces, fortresses, and beautiful gardens – many declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites- are among the city’s highlights. The 13th century Alhambra, a palace and fortress complex which sits atop the hill above the city, reflects the splendor of Muslim rule in Spain, and is an unparalleled architectural gem. It is one of the most well-preserved palaces of the historic Islamic world, and it also contains remarkable examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture. The Nasrid palaces, Palacio Nazarias, built in the 14th century around the patios, are the heart of the Alhambra and great expressions of classic Moorish architecture. Arches, domes, wall murals, intricately decorated stucco walls, wooden ceilings, vividly colored tiles, and inscriptions in original Arabic calligraphy add to the grandeur of the palaces. Generalife, located on a hillside near the Alhambra palace complex, was the summer palace of the sultans of Granada. It is a villa with gardens surrounded by abundant orchards, and it includes beautiful terraced gardens, courtyards, ancient trees, and fragrant flowers. There are also narrow paths, pools, fountains, and water that flows from the melting snow on the peaks of the Sierra Nevada. At the center of the complex is the pool patio - Patio de la Acequia (Patio of the Water Channel) – which is thought to be the oldest garden in the West. Pavilions, which provide a great lookout point for the impressive Alhambra complex, stand on both ends. El Albaicin, the old Moorish quarter of Granada, is situated on a hill facing the Alhambra and offers incredible views of the surrounding area. Among the maze of narrow stone-paved alleys are the "Carmen Houses,” large walled villas with beautiful orchards and gardens. The fortifications, pools, fountains, gates, and Muslim houses are well-preserved. The construction of the grand Granada Cathedral in the center of the city was begun by Queen Isabella in the early 16th century on the site of the old mosque, and it lasted about 200 years. It was originally a Gothic building, and then became a Spanish Renaissance masterpiece. Its exterior structure is Gothic. The church’s interior combines Renaissance style with a Gothic floor plan - chapels at the side and an impressive, magnificent main chapel in the middle, a masterpiece by Siloe. The cathedral houses many ornaments and priceless treasures. The Capilla Real, the Royal Chapel of Granada, is one of the city’s most spectacular Christian buildings. Built in a magnificent Isabelline Gothic style, the Catholic kings ordered its construction in the early 16th century and requested that it be used as a mausoleum. It is the burial place of Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand among other Spanish monarchs. The chapel is decorated with symbols of the kings' heroism and of the royal power, with beautiful wrought iron bars that enclose the two chapels. The chapel also houses a collection of invaluable art and historical objects including, Isabella's scepter and crown, Fernando's sword, and paintings by Flemish, Italian and Spanish artists. Along with its rich history and culture, Granada boasts a lively night life and abundant bars, cafes, tapas bars, and restaurants which are a magnet for visitors and students.

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Granada

Barceló Carmen Granada

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“En-Route” - Sights on the way 368.17 km | 4 hrs 25 mins

About Toledo

The charming city of Toledo, in Central Spain, is the capital of the province of Toledo. It is a walled city located on a mountaintop above the plains of Castilla-La Mancha, surrounded on three sides by the Tajo River and lovely landscapes.

Having served as the royal court of King Charles I, Toledo is known as the “Imperial City,” and, due to the influences of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam which lived harmoniously there in the Middle Ages, it also became known as the “City of Three Cultures.” Because of its strategic location, Toledo was used as a defensive position as far back as ancient Roman times. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Toledo served as the capital of the Visigoth Kingdom until, in 712, it came under Moorish rule which lasted until the end of the 11th century. During this period, it was the home of the Mozarab community of Arabic-speaking Christians. King Alfonso VI conquered the city in 1085, turning it into an important social and political center of Castile. It was during this time that the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim cultures co-existed and blended, and, in fact, this fusion of cultures plays a large role in the city’s allure. As you tour Toledo’s Old Town, you’ll see remnants of its rich history. In fact, much has remained the same – the maze of narrow alleyways, interior courtyards, and beautiful patios – and you may feel as if you’re actually walking through history! There are monuments and architectural remains of the three cultures that lived there during medieval times, and magnificent, well-preserved Gothic and Renaissance buildings throughout the city. The Alcázar, is an ancient Moorish fortress which was built on the site of an earlier Roman fort and then renovated by the Christian monarchy. It is the most famous building in Toledo and, from its imposing hilltop location, is visible even from a distance. It served in ensuing centuries as a palace for the Spain monarchs, a military camp, and a military academy, and today it is home to the National Library of Castilla La Mancha and the Army Museum. The 13th century Toledo Cathedral is one of the most important Gothic buildings in Spain. Reflecting the city’s history, the cathedral combines many styles and is adorned with a soaring tower, magnificent stained glass windows, an impressive baroque altar, ornate columns, and a collection of masterpieces by Goya, El Greco, Raphael, and Rubens among other renowned artists. The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes was built by the Catholic King Fernando and Queen Isabella in the 15th century. Originally planned also as their burial place, they chose the splendor of Granada instead after they conquered the city in 1492. In the cobblestoned Jewish Quarter, La Juderia, there are remnants of the thriving medieval Jewish life that existed there until the Inquisition in 1492 when the Jews were expelled from Spain. One of the historic synagogues remaining, the Sinagoga del Transito, is among the most important examples of Sephardic architecture. Today is also houses the Museo Sefardi (the Sephardic Museum) which highlights the history and culture of Spain’s Jews. The Santa Maria La Blanca is a 12th century Mudejar synagogue which had, at one time, housed at least 10 synagogues. The synagogue was converted to the Church of Santa Maria la Blanca in 1405 after the Christian re-conquest of Toledo. The pillars, arches, and columns, as well as the decorative wooden ceiling, are outstanding features, influenced by Moorish architecture. You’ll also find the Casa and Museo El Greco in the Jewish Quarter. The former home of El Greco, who spent over half his life in Toledo, was renovated in 1906 and decorated with his furnishings and art. The Museo El Greco is located in an adjoining building, and there are many works of the artist displayed there, including some of his most famous. One of El Greco’s greatest masterpieces, the Burial of the Count of Orgaz, is displayed in the 12th Iglesia (Church) de Santo Tome. Originally a mosque, the building became a church and was renovated in the 14th century in Gothic style with a Mudejar tower. The Museum of Santa Cruz is another highlight in Toledo located in the historic Old Town. The 16th century building itself is architecturally noteworthy, and its collections of art, archeology, and ethnographic are outstanding. At the center of Toledo is a lively square called Plaza de Zocodover which is lined with shops, cafes, and elegant homes adorned with many arches. Toledo is also known for its distinctive “Damasquinado” (Damascus art) which can be found in many shops in the city. The craft is made of blackened steel and is woven with gold, silver, and copper threads. Last but not least, with all that culture, you’re sure to build up an appetite. Well, Toledo is also known for its delicious cuisine which blends both Castilian and Andalusian cooking. Some of the city’s popular dishes include handmade marzipan (sweet almond candies), partridge stew, and roast suckling pig. Be sure to sample the local wine, Manchego cheese, and the locally produced olive oil!

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Toledo

Hotel San Juan de los Reyes

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“En-Route” - Sights on the way 75.99 km | 1 hr 8 mins

About Madrid

Madrid, the capital of Spain and its largest city, is the seat of the government of Spain and the residence of the Spanish monarch. In short, Madrid is the political, economic, and cultural center of Spain. 

This city which never sleeps was built in the 16th century when Philip II, who disliked the capital Valladolid, decided to turn a remote, ancient village in Castile into a capital. Lying at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, the Monzanares River flows through the city. Madrid is home to impressive architecture, leading international art museums, green parks, phenomenal food, and a lively nightlife. The Royal Palace Palacio Real serves as the official seat of the King of Spain. This huge palace, one of the largest Italian Baroque style palaces in Europe, is located on a spectacular cliff overlooking the Monzanares River. The palace contains thousands of art treasures, including paintings and wall murals, porcelain objects, musical instruments, and medieval weapons. There are breathtaking gardens surrounding the palace -the Sabatini Gardens to the north and the Campo del Moro Gardens at the foot of the hill on which the palace is located. Madrid’s large, Neo-Gothic style Santa Maria de la Almudena Cathedral is among the newest cathedrals in Europe, inaugurated in 1993 after over 100 years of construction. Madrid is a city with three famous museums. The Prado El, which began to be constructed in the 18th century, has a neo-classical façade and was intended to be a vast center for nature and science studies. It later became a museum with tens of thousands of works of art from the royal palaces of Spain. It has a huge collection of Spanish paintings, including works by Velázquez, Goya and El Greco; Italian paintings by foremost painters such as Botticelli, Veronese, Caravaggio; and Flemish masterpieces by Hieronymus Bosch, Bruegel, Rubens, Rembrandt, and Van Dyck. The Reina Sofia Museum is housed in a building that was used as a hospital until the 18th century. It is home to an impressive collection of 20th century works, including cubism, surrealism, and realism, and a permanent collection with works by Salvador Dali, Juan Miro, and Pablo Picasso. The highlight of the museum is Picasso's famous masterpiece from 1937, "Guernica.” Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is the third famous museum in Madrid. It began in 1920 as an exhibit of the private collection of Baron Heinrich Thyssen- Bornemisza, who was a well-known collector. It is considered to be one of the most impressive private collections in the world. The museum was sold to Spain and opened to the public in 1992. Much of Madrid’s charm lies in its many public squares, each with its own character and beautiful parks and gardens. The Puerta del Sol (Gate of the Sun) square is a focal point of the city. It was built as a half moon decorated with two fountains and the equestrian statue of Carlos III (who built most of the squares in the city). The Bear and Strawberry Tree statues are attractions, as well, and have become symbols of the city. Today, the square’s central building is used by the Autonomous Community of Madrid. The square is known for its New Year’s Eve tradition of eating twelve grapes, one for each chime at midnight. Plaza Mayor (Town Square) is in the heart of the old city. Originally used in the 15th century as the town market, it was established in the 17th century as a town square, and the 19th century equestrian sculpture of Philip III stands in the center. There are ten entrances to the square and nine gates. Plaza Mayor has historically been the scene of many events, including bullfights and soccer games, and today is the venue for the annual Christmas market. The Casa de la Panaderia, a municipal and cultural building on the north side of the plaza, has a beautiful façade and angular towers to its sides. Plaza Mayor is a thriving center of Madrid life both day and night with its cafes, restaurants, and bars. Plaza Oriente is built in the shape of a crescent with an impressive facade of the Royal Palace as its base. It is surrounded by flower beds, beautiful shrubbery, and statues of the kings of Spain. In the center, above an imposing fountain surrounded by lions, is the equestrian statue of Philip IV. In the rectangular Plaza Espania, a spacious square surrounded by trees, there is a large stone monument honoring one of Spain's greatest writers, Miguel Cervantes, and the two iconic characters, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. The 18th century Plaza de Cibeles is one of the main squares in the city and is considered to be one of its most important symbols. The fountain in the square depicts the goddess Cybele sitting in a chariot driven by two lions. At one end of the square is the Madrid City Hall building. The Parquet del Buen Retiro is the green lung of Madrid. It was established as a royal garden with a summer palace, and its garden paths, fountains, lake, playgrounds, and cafes attract many visitors. The Casa de Campo, Madrid’s largest public park, was created in the 16th century for the royal family and nobility and became a public park in 1931. It is a popular urban park and destination for both visitors and locals, especially on the weekends. The park contains lakes as well as an amusement park and a large zoo. Madrid is also a great shopping destination with its many colorful markets. The San Miguel Market is one of the most famous in the city with a wide variety of food, wine, and tapas stalls. San Ildefonso market is a food market, which, at dark, turns into a lively entertainment area with a stunning balcony and comfortable seating. The Platea Market, which used to be a theatre, bustles with restaurants, shops, bars, and bakeries. Anton Martin Market is a food market with cafeterias, restaurants, and even a flamenco school. Last but not least, be sure to visit Calle Gran Via, the busiest thoroughfare in Madrid with cinemas, shopping malls, international chain stores, and banks. If you’re a foodie, Madrid won’t disappoint! It has its own gastronomy as well as culinary specialties from all over Spain. Madrid’s many restaurants and cafes serve the famous bean stews, roast suckling piglet, Galician octopus, and the iconic Paella.

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Madrid

Catalonia Las Cortes

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“En-Route” - Sights on the way 359.58 km | 4 hrs 44 mins

About Valencia

It is a bustling and prosperous port city and the capital of a fertile agricultural area, a thriving industrial center with metal, furniture, and paper factories, and a large export hub for citrus fruits, vegetables, and wine. It is also home to some of Spain’s best beaches and provides a unique mix of culture, history, and fun in the sun.

Valencia is a city that has everything and seamlessly blends modern and traditional cultural experiences- spectacular and diverse architecture, ancient buildings, squares, palaces, picturesque alleys, markets, cafes, bars, vintage shops, and magic corners. While its old town is full of historic landmarks, the modern city which surrounds it has magnificent boulevards and elegant shopping centers. The architecturally futuristic complex, the City of Science and Arts, is located in the center of the city and houses the most impressive structures in Valencia, including the opera house, science museum, and planetarium. The complex was designed by Santiago Calatrava, a native of Valencia, and Felix Candela from Madrid. The Old Town of Valencia (Ciutat Vella) is a maze of picturesque alleys, narrow pedestrian streets studded with statues, palaces, churches, and ancient towers, many of which are relics of the city’s history. Valencia was founded as a Roman colony in 138 BC and was ruled by the Muslims starting in the 8th century. The Christians conquered the area in the 13th century, and the city became the capital of the Kingdom of Valencia. Valencia’s Town Hall Square, the beautiful Plaza del Ayuntamiento, is a vibrant open center lined with statues, fountains, and carpets of flowers. The 18th century Town Hall building, for which the square is named, is an impressive structure which houses a local history museum. Originally serving as a monastery, this 18th century town hall is an impressive example of traditional Spanish architecture. The Palacio de las Comunicaciones (Palace of Communications) is Valencia’s historic mail service building. Located near the square is the famous Central Market (Mercado Central), a modern building with a spectacular architectural design that combines stone, metal, and glass. A huge market with over 1000 stalls, this is a foodie’s paradise which offers a wide assortment of traditional Valencian cuisine, fresh seafood, and local produce. The Fallas Festival is Valencia’s most famous festival, and it takes place annually in mid-March, featuring massive sculptures, parades, and fireworks. During the festival, several hundred 50-foot sculptures (“fallas”) made of paper, usually designed as satirical figures of local politicians and celebrities, are burned in huge bonfires in the squares. The Valencia Cathedral, dating back to the 14th-15th centuries, combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, and the Miguelete Tower, the bell tower of the cathedral, offers a wonderful view of the city extending out to the sea. The Lonja de la Seda (the Silk Exchanges) dates back to the 15th century and is built in late Gothic style with a magnificent colonnaded hall. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is used today for exhibitions and events. Valencia’s main rain station, called Estacio Nord, is located in the center of the Old Town. It is an impressive building, an outstanding example of the Valencian Art Nouveau, with mosaics and unusual wall paintings – as well as a major transport hub in the city. For nature lovers, don’t miss Oceanografic, Europe’s largest marine park, and Albufera Natural Park, a beautiful nature reserve located close to Valencia, with boat tours of the wildlife. All this, and kilometers of lively, golden sand bathing beaches, are what make Valencia one of Spain's holiday destinations.

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Valencia

Dorm4You Arena 2

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“En-Route” - Sights on the way 350.98 km | 4 hrs 40 mins

About Barcelona

This lively, exciting metropolis, set on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, is renowned for its exceptional architecture, rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, stunning beaches, and fascinating history. It is said that a secret of Barcelona's charm lies in the fact that its tourist sites are an integral part of its residents’ daily life.

Barcelona is not only the capital city of the autonomous community of Catalonia and the second largest city in Spain, but a leading international city, having major influence on global commerce, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science, and the arts. It is an important cultural center, blending modernity and tradition. The city’s most famous landmarks include the architectural works of Antoni Gaudi and Lluis Domenech i Montaner, which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The center of the city and its heart is Placa de Catalunya, a charming square with statues and fountains, shops and boutiques, cafes and restaurants. La Rambla, a bustling boulevard that connects Placa de Catalunya to the ocean, extends from the square. Also extending from the square is one of the city’s most prestigious boulevards, the Passeig de Gracie, where two of Gaudi’s iconic houses are located, the Casa Batllo and the Casa Mila- also known as La Padrera. One of Barcelona’s main highlights is the Church of the Holy Family - La Sagrada Familia – which was designed by Antonio Gaudi and to which he devoted much of his life. The church, which began construction in 1882 and is still not finished, is one of the city's most exciting and awe-inspiring sites. Not far from the church, at the end of Gaudi Avenue, is the Sant Pau Hospital, one of Lluis Domenech I Montaner’s most important architectural works. It is a large complex in which the buildings fit together harmoniously and are surrounded by magnificent gardens. The city’s Gothic Quarter, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is considered the historic heart of the city, and there are numerous city landmarks located within its narrow streets. The Sinagoga Major de Barcelona, which was the main synagogue in the Jewish neighborhood until the expulsion of the Jews in 1492, still remains, as does the 14th-15th century Barcelona Cathedral, an impressive Gothic cathedral and the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona, Catalonia. The historic palace, Palau de la Generalitat, is also found here and continues to function as the seat of the Government of Catalonia and the Presidency of the Generalitat. The 14th century Ajuntament City Hall building is another landmark in the Quarter. The Picasso Museum is housed in one of the Gothic Quarter’s elegant mansions, and the Palau de la Musica Catalana is a magnificent concert hall designed in Catalan modernista style by Lluis Domenech I Montaner in the early 20th century. There is a mountain overlooking the city known as Montjuic, the Jewish Mountain, a name derived from the medieval Jewish cemetery that is found there. Situated on the mountain is the National Palace, an enormous Italian-style building built in 1929, which today houses the National Art Museum of Catalonia as well as the Olympic Stadium and the Pueblo Espanyol tourist complex. Also located here is the Joan Miro Museum, a museum of modern art dedicated to the famous Catalan artist who initiated its establishment of the museum and donated many of her works. Just beneath Monjuic, you’ll find Placa de Espana, Barcelona’s largest square. The square had once been used as an entrance gate to the museum and today is a center for fairs and exhibits. The Font Magica provides fun entertainment in the evening as the illuminated fountain shoots jets of water, which change shape and color, 164 feet high – all accompanied by great music. Barcelona is also home to some outstanding parks. In the center of the city is the Parc De La Ciutadella, a green oasis with a large central fountain, statues, and an artificial lake with row boats. On the park’s grounds you’ll also find the zoo, the Catalan Parliament building which today houses the Modern Art Museum, the Museum of Natural Sciences, and the Cascada, a large triumphal arch. Park Guell, located in the García district atop a hill, is one of the city's most intriguing sites and a unique example of creative environmental design. Originally intended as a private residential area with 60 single-family homes, the project was unsuccessful, and it became municipal property in 1923. Though not complete, it is one of Antonio Gaudi's best-known and most imaginative works. The buildings are coated with colorful ceramic fragments whose combination throughout the garden creates a mosaic of shapes. Along the beautiful stairway at the entrance gate, you’ll see one of the park’s most famous features: the huge, mythological dragon– or salamander. At the top of the stairs is La Placa, a square with a colorful, rolling bench covered with ceramic fragments and spectacular views of the city. Tibidabo is the highest hill in the Serra de Collserola, and, at its peak, is the Sagrat Cor Church. Adjacent to it is the Tibidabo Amusement Park, a historic theme park with modern attractions, events, shows, and panoramic views. Camp Nou is the largest soccer stadium in Europe and the home field of FC Barcelona. It includes a museum and a visitor’s center. Markets are another important feature of life in Barcelona and a great place to feel the city’s vibe. The 13th century Boqueria Market, located off the famous Rambla and a popular tourist destination, is filled with the sites, smells, and sounds of a bustling city market. In addition to fresh, delicious produce, you’ll find fresh fish, cheeses, juices, Catalan sausages, and other local delicacies – as well as numerous bars and restaurants. The San Antonio Market located in the Eixampla area is one of the largest in Barcelona, combining stalls, restaurants, and bars alongside clothes, books, and stamps for collectors. The Encants flea market is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the 13th century, and a place to find diverse and unique art, crafts, gifts, fashion, and more. Not far from Catalonia Square is El Nacional, a charming restaurant complex where you’ll find many traditional dishes from the Iberian Peninsula. Established in 1870 as a theater, the building served other purposes before undergoing a massive renovation and opening in 2013 as a luxurious and well-designed entertainment complex in the heart of the city. And there’s more – Barcelona is also home to shopping centers, an extensive and delectable restaurant scene, and a vibrant night life. To sum up, Barcelona – an innovative, cosmopolitan city with a Mediterranean flair- shouldn’t be missed!

Includes audio guides and en-route navigation

Barcelona