The capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is a beautiful and vibrant medieval city set in maze of narrow streets. Backpackers travel to the city to experience the unique atmosphere, cheap hostels in Barcelona and eccentric architecture.
Las Ramblas
Las Ramblas in Barri Gotic is the focal point for backpackers traveling to Barcelona. The dynamic hub comprises a kilometer-long pedestrianized street made up of cafes, shops, bars and inexpensive youth hostels in Barcelona housed in grand gothic buildings.
Gaudi
The unique design and architecture of Antoni Gaudi is a memorable aspect of any trip to the city, with La Sagrada Familia proving an impressive modernist structure. Its construction began in 1882 and has never been completed, whereas Gaudi's Casa Mila in the Eixample district was finished in 1912.
Art
Barcelona also has a rich tapestry of art galleries and museums. Dedicated to the life and works of the surrealism master, Joan Miro, is the Joan Miro Museum in Montjuic, while the colorful Magic Fountain is also located nearby. Barri Gotic is also home to the largest collection of Picasso works arranged within the splendor of five medieval palaces.
Bars and Cafes
Barri Gotic and Las Ramblas have a thriving bar scene that comes to life late into the night. Live music is often performed in bars and ranges from Spanish guitar tunes, to reggae and grungy rock set in intimate venues around the city.
Traditional Spanish bars are often packed full of the local's playing cards and have a great atmosphere, while British pubs can also be found for the traveler craving a refreshing pint of Guinness. Cafes in the gothic district are also a great place for backpackers to spend a few hours drinking coffee and reading.
Eating
Restaurants in Barcelona have an eclectic range of culinary influences. From traditional tapas to food from all corners of the world, there is something here to cater for all tastes. Vegetarians are well-catered for and those trying to keep healthy will find many little cafes serving freshly prepared juices and wholesome food.
The afternoon siesta is popular in Barcelona and can catch out hungry travelers searching for somewhere to eat a late lunch or have an early evening meal. Eating out is usually a late and grand affair and for those on a tight budget it is useful to know that tipping is appreciated, but not expected.