From a ledge in Parc Güell, designed by Antoni Gaudí, visitors get panoramic views of Barcelona.
Photograph by Krista Rossow
Long pegged as a mere “smokestack city,” Barcelona has come into its own since the 1992 Olympics, and today is one of the liveliest tourist destinations in Europe. Cradled between the Mediterranean and the Serra de Collserola hills, Spain’s second largest metropolis arguably eclipses Madrid as a showcase for the arts, music, and cutting-edge design. A morning’s walk can take you from the original Roman settlement, much of it still intact under the narrow streets of the medieval Barri Gòtic, to the palaces and churches of the city’s 12th- and 13th-century golden age and on to the 19th-century L’Eixample neighborhood, where every avenue seems to be lined with flights of architectural fancy in stained glass and wrought iron, ornamental brick, and ceramic tile.
Barcelona Photos and Quiz
Related Features
-
Your Photos of European Cities
Travel to the stylish streets, historic quarters, and cultural delights of some of Europe's most beloved cities with these photos submitted to My Shot by users like you.
-
World Heritage: Works of Antoni Gaudí
Get facts, photos, and travel tips for the works of Antoni Gaudí, a World Heritage site in Spain.
-
My Shot: Gaudí's Barcelona
Antoni Gaudí's fantastically intricate, nature-inspired designs are scattered throughout Barcelona. Below are some of our favorite photos illustrating his unique architectural footprint, submitted by our readers.
-
Barcelona Must-Dos
Our experts recommend the top attractions in and around Barcelona—with advice on how to get the most out of your visit.
