Coastal Meets Cosmopolitan: 7 Reasons Why Barcelona is Irresistibly Charming

It’s easy to fall in love with the vibrant Mediterranean port city of Barcelona.  Here are a just a few of the reasons:

1. The Architecture: Barcelona is considered by many to be the world capital of architecture and design, and with good reason.

The extraordinary structures of Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona’s most well-known architect, with their mosaics, bright colors and flowing shapes and curves  will be unlike anything you’ve ever seen, as least as far as 19^th century European architecture goes.

The unfinished Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s most famous work, draws the most visitors, but Casa Milá (La Pedrera), Casa Batlló (see photo) and Parc Guell also deserve a visit.  Parc Guell has no entrance fee, and offers a spectacular view of the city, in addition to the beauty of its own grounds.

Work has continued on the Sagrada Familia for the 25 years since Gaudi’s death, and at least another 25 years of work remains before it will be completed.  Pope Benedict XVI will be visiting the church in November to formally consecrate it.  From then on, masses will be held inside.

Aside from Gaudi’s fanciful creations, the streets of Barcelona hold myriads of classically elegant European buildings.  Their stately presence lends a feel of serene stability to the otherwise lively atmosphere of this cosmopolitan city.

2. Al fresco dining: you have the opportunity to savor a leisurely meal or wine and tapas at comfortable outdoor tables at a multitude of restaurants along Barcelona’s wide, palm-tree lined streets.

3. The wine: If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll be happy to know that Spanish wine can be found for prices cheaper than bottled water.

This glass of Qu Qu’s red table wine cost 1.5 euros, and the shrimp, mushroom and bacon kebab that accompanied it left my taste buds dancing with pleasure.

You can also take the opportunity to try some local wines – wine production has been an important part of Catalonia’s culture for centuries.

The most well-known fermented beverage native to the region is Cava, the Spanish version of champagne.

4. Paella! Need I say more?  If that doesn’t tell you enough, order some – you’ll see what I mean.

5. The coffee shops: My personal favorite is Il Caffe di Francesco: a little treasure tucked away on a little side street about a block away from Casa Batllo.

High ceilings and brick-walled interiors are the backdrop for a mouthwatering selection of pastries and croissants, and the coffee menu …mmm. The Caffe Italiana (espresso, amaretto, chocolate and whipped cream) is divine.  (Address: Consell  de Cent, 347 08001-Barcelona)

6. Montjuic: the views and the dancing musical water fountain that (literally) leaps into action after nightfall.

7. If you happen to be a soccer – sorry, football – fan, there’s Camp Nou stadium, home of Club Barça.

These are only a few of Barcelona’s many attractions. But the only way to truly understand the irresistible charm of this Spanish city is, of course, to experience it for yourself!

* Photos courtesy of Sonya Stoa