"Beginning and ending of Spain experience " a Barcelona Travel Page by Srechko

Barcelona was our beginning and ending destionation in Spain. Alltogether, we spent 4 days there. It is the second largest city in Spain, and the capital of Catalonia.

We stayed in Barcelona’s old town, on La Rambla close to La Plaça Catalunya and that seemed to be the best location when the stay is short. From there, we were able to explore most of the sights on foot.

Our every day started with a stroll along La Rambla, a tile-covered tree-lined pedestrian walkway, the busiest and most lively street of the city. It connects the natural centre of Barcelona - La Plaça Catalunya – with city’s harbourfront. This street has an excellent atmosphere and is full of local artists, street entertainers and pavement cafes. By the time we got hungry or decided to spend money, we’d typically leave La Rambla as it is a large tourist haunt. Prices are higher here than anywhere else in the city. Side streets offer better prices, and overall cheaper and more local experience of Barcelona.

Most interesting part of Barcelona is probably Barri Gothic, the medieval centre of the city with its cathedrals and churches. La Plaça Reial located next to La Rambla is considered one of the most beautiful squares in the world.

Out of numerous sights in Barcelona we managed to explore only a few including some examples of Gaudi architecture - the still unfinished Sagrada Família and the houses La Pedrera (Casa Mila) and La Casa Batillo.

Unique experience was seeing the bullfight even though I am sure I’ll never do that again. Barcelona is actually known as a non bullfighting city and it seems it is only a matter of time when this event will be completely banned. For 25 euros we had a chance to “enjoy” an unfair “battle” between the matador and a color blind, specially bred “torro”. The only bullfighting ring in the city is La Monumental and my impression was that only curious tourists like us came to watch this cruel show.

For the night life we went to the beach – close to Barceloneta there is an area full of fun and upbeat bars.