Holidays in Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona ranks second in size and population after Spain’s prominent capital, Madrid. Quite a contrast to its humble beginnings of a village built on a small hill with less than 1000 inhabitants in 15 – 10 BC. C. There are two official languages spoken in Barcelona: Catalan and Spanish.
Barcelona not only boasts a beautiful stretch of Mediterranean coastline. It also has a significant history with its Roman colonial beginning. The remains of a temple, the necropolis of the Via Sepulcral (Roman cemetery) and the walls, towers and Roman portals of Barcino attest to this. Dry aqueducts that once fed the city to provide running water for its citizens and industry. This industry is now exhibited in two clothing washing and dyeing workshops in the Ciutat History Museum. The architecture is also quite different, there are some of Gothic origin and the churches are quite a sight to behold, especially the Sagrada Familia, which is the most visited monument in the city.
The Industrial Revolution revived the capacity of this flourishing city once again. The Universal Exhibition of 1888 illustrates the vision of the future and the efforts that the city has made. And that perspective and effort are still prominently displayed to this day. Culture and the arts flourish in Barcelona. Barcelona retains its historical integrity and yet is able to offer the modern tourist all the comforts expected.
The coast can be accessed via the famous Ramblas, the path to the sea. There are four main beaches, including the famous Olympic Marina and the town that was used to host this international event in 1992. Barcelona strives to ensure that its beaches meet the highest standards of hygiene and safety. Its average annual temperatures range from the lowest 10 °C in January to 29 °C in August. Restaurants and bars slice the beach and boardwalk with local delicacies and drinks to quench the lingering sun.
The Costa Brava is a natural habitat for surfers. Sailing and boating are also popular. Swimming and diving in its warm waters and exploring its seabed is one of the favorites of many visitors. Outside of the water, golf, basketball and tennis are fascinating. La Cala Golf & Spa Resort, a five-star hotel, offers free golf for its residents. Then to the Pyrenees mountains for the winter where skiing is regularly practiced.
Barcelona has an international airport. And as expected, the transfer arrangements are very good. Car hire and coaches can be booked in advance with your flights. Local transportation, such as buses and taxis, is also available.