The Best Of Barcelona

The Capital of Catalonia in Spain Has Serious Clout as a Holiday Destination. Go for Antoni Gaudí’s Daring Architecture, the Tapas and Wine Culture, and Beaches Aplenty

- Lisa Van Aswegen

It’s easy to see why Barcelona has so much appeal. Whether you’re admiring works of art and design, swimming in the warm Mediterranean or tasting delectable flavours on a tapas walk, this seaside city pulses both day and night, and gets under your skin in the best way imaginable. Here’s our two-day guide to making the most of the metro-beach destination.

DAY ONE

Gaudí gazing and beachside chilling

The Sagrada Família Basilica – famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí’s Modernist masterpiece that is still under construction today – is synonymous with Barcelona. Gaudí took over as architect of this monumental edifice in 1883 and worked on it until his death in 1926. A visit to this church is a must: outside, the detailed stonework beggars belief, with intricate symbol-filled carvings, fantastical towers and turrets, and bright colours garnering attention.

Once inside, the masses of crowds are more manageable thanks to the vast interior. It is different to any other basilica you’re likely to have experienced: columns grow tree-like to support the ceiling, which is up to 75m high. Looking up, the columns appear almost anemone-like, as if you’re peering into an underwater world. Then there are the stained-glass windows – blue tones on the eastern side to ensure the morning sun is cool, while oranges and yellows flood the space with warm hues in the afternoon. Even if you’re not religious, the space is profoundly moving.