DK Travel : Barcelona

With warm, crystal-clear waters lapping its sandy shores and mountains nuzzling up to its northern edge, this glittering jewel in the Mediterranean is blessed with desirable geographical genes. From the buoyant, revamped port area to the atmospheric medieval streets of the Barri Gòtic and the beautiful Modernista buildings of the Eixample, Barcelona has it all. A host of treasure-filled museums, architectural wonders, lively beaches and enchanting squares provide the icing on the cake.

L’Aquàrium

Come face to face with the teeming marine world of the Mediterranean at Barcelona’s impressive aquarium, the largest in Europe. The highlight is an 80-m (262-ft) long underwater tunnel equipped with a moving walkway that transports visitors through the deep blue unknown, while sharks glide menacingly close. A huge hit with the kids is the new Explora! floor, with interactive activities that allow you to explore the ecosystems of the Mediterranean.
L’Aquàrium

One of Europe’s biggest aquariums, this underwater kingdom is made up of 21 enormous tanks brimming with nearly 400 marine species. The highlight of a visit is the Oceanari, where a walk-through glass tunnel will bring you face to face with three huge grey sharks – named Drake, Morgan and Maverick – lurking in 4.5 million litres (990,000 gallons) of water.Port Vell, Barceloneta & Port Olimpic
L’Arca de l’Àvia

Amazing antique clothing from flapper dresses to boned corsets, silk shawls, puff sleeved shirts and pin-tucked shirt fronts. There’s also a selection of antique dolls and fans.
L’Olivé

An unassuming, family-style restaurant with excellent, well-priced regional cuisine. Reputedly the best place to eat that Catalan speciality pig’s trotter. The broad bean salad with mint is recommended.
Mama Cafè

Organic Mediterranean dishes (many vegetarian) are served in this airy café-restaurant, which is popular with artists. Contemporary art is projected onto the wall.
Mansana de la Discòrdia

At the heart of the city’s Quadrat d’Or (Golden Square) lies this stunning block of houses. Literally “the block of discord”, the Mansana de la Discòrdia is so-called because of the dramatic contrast of its three flagship buildings. Built between 1900 and 1907 by the three Modernista greats, rival architects Gaudí, Domènech i Montaner and Puig i Cadafalch, the buildings were commissioned by competing bourgeois families. Domènech is represented by the ornate Casa Lleó Morera (Modernista Buildings); Puig makes his mark with the Gothic-inspired Casa Amatller (Modernista Buildings); and Gaudí flaunts his architectural prowess with Casa Battló (Modernista Buildings). All boast superb interiors – sadly closed to the public – with the exception of Casa Battló. The lesser-known houses at Nos. 37 and 39 add to the overall splendour of the block. The Perfume Museum at No. 39 is heaven for scent-lovers (Top 10 quirky Museums/Monuments).

Casa Lléo Morera, Mansana de la Discòrdia
Mantequería Ravell

A deli-style shop offering incredible breakfasts, including eggs with foie gras, at a huge communal table. Wine and traditional hams and cheeses are also available.
Mare Nostrum

The seafood at this family restaurant, with its splendid terrace, includes typical paella and sípia a la planxa (grilled cuttlefish).
Market Hotel & Restaurant

Wonderful food at very reasonable prices, after your meal have a glass of dessert wine, some from the 1920s. Liquid nectar!
Marsella

Founded in 1820, this atmospheric throwback, run by the fifth generation of the Lamiel family, sits in the heart of the Barri Xinès (Marsella). Marsella is one of the few places in town where you can enjoy the potent drink absinthe (absenta ). Settle in at one of the wrought-iron Modernista tables, surrounded by ancient mirrors and old religious statues, and test your mettle with the potent yellow liquor that is specially bottled for the bar. See Bars & Clubs.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €10
- €10–20
- €20–30
- over €30