PERSONALIZED RECOMMENDATIONS
Barcelona
The beaches of Barcelona are an urban oasis, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the vibrant spirit of the city. These sun-kissed shores offer a unique blend of relaxation and recreation, where locals and visitors alike come to bask in the Spanish sunshine, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and partake in the lively beach culture that defines Barcelona. With a backdrop of palm trees, beachfront bars, and the iconic W Hotel, the beaches of Barcelona are not just a place to unwind but also a front-row seat to the city's zest for life and coastal charm
Embark on a journey to discover Barcelona’s enchanting beauty and vibrant culture with our Barcelona Insights for American Tourists. From the iconic Sagrada Familia to the sun-drenched beaches of Barceloneta, our guide is tailored to offer American travelers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history, artistic treasures, and culinary delights. Dive into the heart of Catalonia and make your Barcelona adventure truly unforgettable.
- Official Name: Kingdom of Spain (Reino de España)
- Population: Approximately 47 million
- Capital: Madrid
- Major Cities: Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Bilbao
- Official Languages: Spanish (Castilian), along with regional languages such as Catalan, Basque, and Galician
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), Central European Summer Time (CEST)
- Government Type: Parliamentary Monarchy
- Country Code: +34
- Popular Culinary Specialties: Paella, Tapas, Churros, Gazpacho
- Emergency Number: 112
Sagrada Família: This impressive basilica, designed by Antoni Gaudí, is one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks. The Sagrada Família is a masterpiece of modernist architecture and an ongoing construction project.
Park Güell: Another Gaudí gem in Barcelona is Park Güell. This public park is a colorful and imaginative wonderland featuring unique architecture, vibrant mosaics, and beautiful viewpoints overlooking the city.
La Rambla: La Rambla is Barcelona’s famous promenade. This lively street stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to the harbor and is lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and street performers. It’s an ideal place to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is a historic labyrinth of narrow streets, squares, and ancient buildings. Here, you’ll find historical landmarks like the Barcelona Cathedral and an abundance of charming bars and shops.
The roots of the connection between Barcelona and the United States delve deep into history. In the late 15th century, Christopher Columbus, a Genoese navigator in the service of the Spanish Crown, set sail from Barcelona. His groundbreaking journey in 1492 led to the discovery of America and laid the foundation for Spanish colonization in North and South America. This marked the beginning of a transatlantic relationship, with Barcelona serving as the starting point for his voyages and enthusiastically embracing the discoveries.
In the 20th century, during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), many Spaniards sought refuge from the emerging Franco regime. A significant number of them found exile in the United States, particularly in cities like New York and Miami. These emigrants brought with them their culture, ideas, and talents, leaving a lasting impact on American society.
In today’s world, the connection between the United States and Barcelona thrives on diverse interactions, covering economics, culture, and education.
- Economic Partnerships
Economic ties between Barcelona and the United States are robust. Through trade agreements and investments, both sides benefit economically, contributing to growth and prosperity. - Cultural Enrichment
Cultural exchanges are vibrant. American tourists explore Barcelona’s rich heritage, while Spanish artists, musicians, and filmmakers leave a lasting impression on American culture. - Educational Collaborations
Strong educational connections include student exchanges and joint research programs. These initiatives foster innovation and mutual learning.
This modern relationship underscores the enduring strength of international bonds, grounded in shared history and a commitment to a brighter future.
Personal recommendations
Personal Hotel recommendations for Barcelona
Our carefully selected hotels offer Americans an authentic European experience. Begin your journey with confidence.
Barcelona
- Boutique Hotel, Design
- Urban Explorer
Barcelona
- Boutique Hotel, Spa & Wellness, Historic Building, Design
- Urban Explorer
Amsterdam
- Boutique Hotel, Spa & Wellness, Design
- Urban Explorer
Barcelona
- Boutique Hotel, Family-friendly, Spa & Wellness, Design
- Comfort-Seeking Culturalist
Barcelona
- Boutique Hotel, Family-friendly, Spa & Wellness, Design
- Urban Explorer
Barcelona
- Boutique Hotel, Design
- Urban Explorer
Barcelona
- Boutique Hotel, Family-friendly, Historic Building
- Urban Explorer
Barcelona
- Boutique Hotel, Spa & Wellness, Historic Building, Design
- Comfort-Seeking Culturalist
Explore unique vacation rentals for Barcelona
Not everyone wants to stay in a hotel; some prefer the flexibility and charm of a vacation rental.
HomeToGo
HomeToGo is one of the leading vacation rental providers in Europe, offering an extensive selection of accommodations for every taste and budget. Although HomeToGo may be less known in the USA, it provides an excellent opportunity to discover authentic and unique places to stay for your visit to Amsterdam.
VRBO
VRBO, a widely recognized and valued vacation rental provider in the USA, also offers a wide selection for travelers to Amsterdam. If you prefer a provider you might already be familiar with, VRBO is a reliable choice for booking your next accommodation.
Ideas for great guided Tours & Experiences for Barcelona
From the vast selection of excursions and guided tours, we have put together a selection for you that guarantees a wonderful European trip. These tours can be booked in advance
Exiting Events for Barcelona
Discover a world of unforgettable experiences with our "Exciting European Events". Whether it's sports, music, culinary delights, or parties – we have the perfect event for every taste in our Recommendations.
Do you need a rental car from the airport Barcelona to the city?
Further car rental providers can be found under DirectBooking
Europcar
Europcar is known in Europe for its competitive rates and wide selection of vehicles. If you value good value for money and want the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace, Europcar could be the right option for you. Available directly at the airport, Europcar makes it easy to start your city exploration
Expedia
For those traveling from the USA, Expedia is often the first choice for car rental searches. Known for its reliable service and easy booking process, Expedia offers a variety of options to meet every need. Ideal for getting from the airport to the city without compromising on comfort
Do you need flights to Barcelona?
Lufthansa
Lufthansa, along with its LH Group and Star Alliance partners, offers extensive flight options, ensuring connectivity and convenience. The 'Best Price' calendar is an ideal tool for travelers with flexible dates, as it highlights the most affordable fares over a range of dates. This feature is perfect for those who are planning their trip and want to find the best possible price without being fixed on specific travel dates. Choosing Lufthansa means benefiting from a wide network of destinations and the reliability of one of Europe's leading airlines
Expedia
Expedia simplifies your travel planning by offering a wide range of flight options from various airlines. Its strength lies in the ability to compare prices and schedules from multiple carriers in one search, making it easier for travelers who have specific dates in mind or are looking for the best possible deal on their flights. Expedia is particularly useful for travelers who prefer to explore all available options to ensure they're making an informed choice
- Prepare for your trip with our comprehensive Starter Kit—your go-to resource for travel essentials, from packing guides to local customs.
- Visit our Spain Profile to discover all the essential information about culture, history, and practical tips for your trip
Cultural Diversity – understanding Spain from an American Perspective
Taste Barcelona before you arrive
Extend your Barcelona experience with authentic recipes that you can enjoy before, during, and after your trip.
