By S. Herlihy
Barcelona, a cosmopolitan city in northern Spain, attracts visitors from all over the world who go to enjoy the area's mild climate, amazing architecture, world-class art and Catalan cuisine. Barcelona is a rare destination, at once one of
Europe's oldest communities and home to modern art, culture and food---with its own Mediterranean
beach in the city.
Location and Climate
Nearly five million people live in Barcelona, a city on the Iberian Peninsula bordering the Balearic Sea, which gives way to the Mediterranean Sea. To the north lies the semi-autonomous Basque region of Spain and France and the Pyrenees mountains, which also lead into France. Barcelona is separated from the flat plains of this region by the Serra de Collserola mountain range, whose highest peak is the Tibidabo, at 512 meters.
The mild Mediterranean climate makes winters bearable, with highs typically in the 40s and 50s and the instances of snow rare. Spring and fall are pleasant, with high temperatures in the mid-60s and frequent rain to nourish local flora and fauna. Summers are often more temperate than neighboring areas thanks to cooling winds from the Balearic Sea. August high temperatures typically reach the mid-80s.
Attractions
Barcelona has been the site of settlements for thousands of years, including the ancient Romans, who founded a colony there. It has also been a magnet for artists, whose work can be seen all over the city, and in institutions such as the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art. There are also museums devoted to Spanish greats Joan Miro and Pablo Picasso.
Perhaps no artist made as big an impact on the city as Antoni Gaudi, who was a champion of the modernist art nouveau style, which emphasizes graceful curves, rich decorations and organic motifs. His world-famous, still-unfinished Sagrada Familia rises above the city and is perhaps its most iconic monument.
But there are myriads of other attractions in Barcelona to keep you busy, including soaking up rays on the city beach, taking a funicular up to Montjuic or visiting the oceanfront Olympic Village.
Transportation and Costs
Barcelona is easily accessible by plane from many American cities, and it is connected by high-speed rail to many European cities. Local public transportation is plentiful, and renting a car is a great option of you want to escape the city and explore the nearby countryside.
The city offers many accommodation options, from high-end hotels to affordable hostels and comfortable apartments. It also boasts world-class restaurants heavy on local seafood, along with more relaxed eateries that specialize in bite-size delicacies known as tapas.
About the Author:
S. Herlihy has been a freelance writer since 2001. Her work has appeared in many publications, including "USA Today," "The Women’s Independent Press," "Big Apple Parent" and "ComputorEdge Magazine." Herlihy earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the City University of New York.
