Sightseeing Barcelona 1 Sagrada Familia

Arguably Barcelona's most famous landmark, this church, though still incomplete, is considered architect Antoni Gaudi's masterpiece. It's external beauty is only surpassed by the stunning interior, in which the coloured stained glass makes for an impressive spectacle. A guided tour will help you understand the pervasive symbolism in the building's design.

2 Park Güell and Gaudi's Houses

Gaudi's influence on the urban landscape is ubiquitous. Parc Güell is a beautiful garden complex designed by the architect himself: the hill on which it is built provides breathtaking views of the city. Other examples of Gaudi's modernist architecture are the Casa Milà and Casa Batlló in Eixample.

3 Beaches

The city has a long strip of beautiful beaches, which earned it the title of #1 Beach City in the world, according to National Geographic. At the many chiringuitos, seaside kiosks, you can enjoy a drink after a stroll down the sunlit beach.

4 La Rambla

This walkway goes from Plaça de Catalunya (with its beautiful statues and fountain) to the Pier with a statue of Columbus. The Rambla is always busy with street performers, and the city's famous La Boquería food market can be found here.

5 Festivals

Barcelona's cultural variety is exemplified by its many festivals. Some of these include the traditional Festes de Gràcia in August and La Mercè in September and the celebration of Sant Jordi in April. One of Europe's best music festivals is held in the nearby city of Benicàssim every year.

Required travel documents for Spain

If you wish to travel to Barcelona from Manchester, you should remember some information regarding time differences and ID requirements. The UK is one hour behind Spain. Since both the UK and Spain are in the European Union, no visa is required to travel; a valid passport or an ID card from a country within the European Economic Area (EEA) will suffice to pass border controls.