Enjoy the sun, sea, sand and sophistication while visiting wonderful Barcelona

IF New York is the city that never sleeps, then Barcelona is its sophisticated older sister, home to amazing works by architect Antoni Gaudi.

Spain is on the Amber List so if you are double hit there is no test to enter the country and you do not need to quarantine when you return to the UK.

You’ll need to take a lateral flow test before heading home and a PCR test on day two – although that will hopefully change with the next big traffic light system update on or before October 1.

WHY SHOULD I LEAVE?

IN September you will see mild highs of 26 ° C, but the crowds will have started to decrease, making it easier to grab a table in one of the stylish beach bars.

It’s packed with amazing architecture, bars, and all the entertainment you would expect in a big city, except it borders a stunning coastline, so you’ll have some free time on the beach as well.

ARE THESE STREETS MADE FOR WALKING?

If you have sturdy shoes, you’ll want to visit this place on foot as much as possible, as every nook and cranny exudes culture.

You will certainly take the main road to La Rambla, a huge boulevard that connects the Plaça de Catalunya, in the heart of Barcelona, ​​to Port Vell on the seafront. It is almost impossible to miss and lined with popular restaurants, of all kinds. main shops and cafes.

On a hill above the city is Park Güell, famous for its ceramic sculptures created by the famous architect Gaudi.

But if that’s just the view you’re looking for, a 15-minute walk into the Gràcia district is El Parc del Turó del Putxet, which overlooks the city’s sand-colored buildings and the sea.

SOMETHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST?

BARCELONETA, just 2.5 km from the main Plaça de Catalunya, is not just an ordinary beach.

Filled with bustling chiringuitos (little beach bars), bustling paella huts, and town kids playing volleyball, there’s always a lively atmosphere that continues into the late night.

The chiringuitos were the inspiration for the 33-foot-tall leaning sculpture known as Cubes, which stands in the middle of the sand. If that’s the artwork you’re here for, you’ll want to visit La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, arguably Gaudi’s most iconic work (tickets cost € 26 – available at the door or in advance). reservation).

He also built the Casa Batllo (House of Bones). Even if you don’t venture inside, you can still enjoy the building’s colorful exterior and dragon-inspired roof from the street below.

WHERE SHOULD I EAT?

You will hardly notice La Cova Fumada as you walk past, but it is well known to locals who line the streets for its traditional tapas dishes.

The decor is simple, just a few tables sandwiched in a little hole in the wall, but the food is anything but. Expect local delicacies such as fresh razor clams, fried artichokes, and sizzling shrimp.

If you push the boat, head to Tickets, whose menu includes avocado pizza with king crab as well as truffle sashimi with black truffle vinaigrette. Small plates cost from € 2 to € 33, but everything is delicious and unique.

There is also the famous Mercat de La Boqueria where locals go for fresh meat, fish, sweets, tapas and juices.

I WANT A GLASS

Sip coffee at Satan’s Coffee Corner, which is in the stony Gothic Quarter – these streets are also a great place to grab a pint.

Or, if you feel like rinsing off, enjoy cocktails at the rooftop bar of the Ohla Barcelona hotel. Try to time it so that you’re there for the sunset and enjoying a panoramic view of the radiant city.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY?

THE Barceló Raval, a funky neon cylinder shaped hotel, is just a five minute walk from La Rambla and 30 minutes from Barceloneta beach.

Futuristic rooms are lit with colorful lights, and there are stunning views from the 360-degree rooftop terrace, which has a plunge pool and wet bar.

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