Catalonia is an autonomous region located in the northeast of Spain. Flying to Catalonia for a holiday is no issue and there are several international airports. The city of Barcelona is one of the region’s main attractions, and visitors will be able to explore the Brava and Daurada coasts.
Barcelona.
The city of Barcelona is known for its architecture. The unfinished cathedral of the Sagrada Familia is one of the city’s symbols. The cathedral, designed by Gaudí, is known for its sculpted facades decorated with many statues. The interior of the cathedral has thin bony columns and visitors can climb up one of the towers to an observation deck that has views towards the city.
There are many other monuments to explore in Barcelona. In the Eixample district, a centric district, visitors will find two other buildings designed by Gaudí. The Casa Batlló is known for its sandstone facade decorated in trencadis, a type of colourful tiles. The Casa Milá has a wavy stone facade and the rooftops, known for their views towards the city center, have chimneys in the shape of warriors.
The city’s Gothic Quarter is for those visitors who enjoy exploring a city’s architecture. The Gothic Quarter used to be a Roman village. The Gothic Seu cathedral, the city’s main cathedral, is located in this neighbourhood, next to an ancient Gothic cloister. The neighbourhood’s narrow streets lead to many plazas. The Plaça Reial area is known for its selection of bars and restaurants, and the Calle Ferran is lined with cafeterias and chic lounges. Another street, Calle Avinyo, is known for its boutique stores.
Beaches.
Barceloneta beach is an urban beach located near Barcelona’s port area. In the region of Catalonia there are many more beaches, and those who visit the region for its beaches will be able to enjoy the many resorts of the Costa Brava and Costa Daurada.
In the neighbouring province of Tarragona, on the Costa Daurada, is Salou, a city known for its beaches, nightlife and theme parks. The Port Aventura theme park, with its many roller coasters and water rides, is located in the city.
Costa Brava’s Lloret de Mar is filled with apartments, hotels and international restaurants. A short distance away is Cadaqués, a traditional town with sandy beaches, a harbour and whitewashed houses.
Medieval cities and ancient towns.
The city of Girona is a medieval city known for its medieval streets and buildings. Near the city is the town of Figueres, where the Dalí Museum is located.
A short distance south is Tarragona, a city where visitors will be able to explore Roman ruins. The towns of Cambrils and Reus offer many cultural attractions, including the Gaudí Centre in Reus.
In the city of Lleida, located in the interior of the Lleida province, visitors will find the Seu Vella, a large fortified cathedral, and the Templar Castle of Gardeny fortress. The Baqueira Beret ski resort is a popular spot for skiers and snowboarders, and there are many other ski resorts in the region.
