Discovering Barcelona with Sovereign

Points of interest for the 'cultural city break' in Barcelona

If you're heading for a Barcelona city break, visit the fascinating medieval Gothic quarter with its labyrinth alleys and the marvellous Spanish architecture of Poble Espanyol. Other unmissable highlights include the Montjuic Mountain, the Picasso and Miró museums, the National Art Museum of Catalunia, the Monument to Christopher Columbus and, of course, Gaudì’s architectural delights. Climb the spires of his spectacular Sagrada Familia Cathedral for a fantastic view of the city, and head to the inspiring Park Güell, a suburban oasis of technicolour, sculpture and parkland – a must visit during your short city break in Barcelona.

Eating out for the 'gastronomic city break'

Barcelona is a leading city in Spain for excellent cuisine, and there are some fabulous seafood restaurants in Port Olimpico (the modern marina) and Barceloneta (the old fisherman's quarter). Local specialities are zarzuela (seafood stew), pa amb tomaquet (bread with tomato), churros (deep-fried doughnuts) and the orxata drink (made from tiger nuts). For more traditional Catalan food, visit El Convent.

Shopping for the 'retail therapy city break'

During your Barcelona city break, head to the main shopping areas of Passeig de Gracia and Diagonal. The bustling La Rambla is ribboned with market stalls, shops and cafés whilst the Sant Antoni market is ideal for second-hand books and comics. Els Encants market is a haven for bargain hunters, where designer clothes, ceramics, leather, wickerwork and shoes are good buys.