One of the most interesting cities in Europe cannot but captivate with the beauty of its architecture, an abundance of unique monuments, and a peculiar atmosphere. The Catalans adore their capital, keep the city in extraordinary cleanliness, sacredly honor the memory of outstanding Barcelona personalities. The history of the Middle Ages is captured in the ancient temples and ancient buildings of the Gothic Quarter. You can visit Barcelona many times, and it always gives new impressions. It has something to be surprised and something to admire. What are the architectural masterpieces of Gaudí worth. How beautiful are its parks and squares, squares and fountains. This city can be admired endlessly. The observation decks of Barcelona, which abound in it, help to see the entire stunning panorama.

Monument to Columbus

Walking towards the sea along the main pedestrian Las Ramblas, you will not be able to get around the small square in the form of a circle Portal de la Pau. In its center rises a majestic column topped with a statue of the great navigator Columbus. The expressive hand gesture of the bronze Columbus is directed towards the embankment, to which the ships of his expedition to the West Indies moored. An amazing 7-meter-high monument by the sculptor Atche was installed in connection with the World Exhibition on June 1, 1888.

The 60 m high column plays the role of an observation tower, inside which an elevator operates. Today, the Columbus Monument is a popular observation deck for tourists, which receives visitors from 08.30 to 20.30. Every day, hundreds of guests rise to a height of 60 meters to admire a truly magical panorama. On the north side, the temple buildings of the Gothic Quarter stagger the imagination; on the west, the blue of the Mediterranean Sea sparkles with rows of yachts and boats.

The palm alley of the embankment, the skyscrapers of the twin towers of the Port Olympic complete the amazing picture. A little further on, solar panels shine in the Forum Park. In the south you can see the green massif of the park on Mount Montjuic. In the eastern part of the city, the mountain landscapes of Tibidabo stretch, the domes of the Sacred Heart Temple are visible.

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Mount Tibidabo

Probably, in the fact that the city of Tibidabo is the highest observation point in Barcelona (512 m.), there is a divine providence. From the top of the mountain you can see all the irresistible beauty spreading below. According to legend, they were observed by Jesus Christ, whose statue and temple are installed here. Although the path to Tibidabo is not easy, it is definitely worth a visit to see the unique ancient and modern objects.

You can climb on foot along the paved paths (for trained tourists), by funicular, by bus “Tibibas” from the square. Catalonia or by taxi. The “blue tram” (Tibidabo plane) brings visitors to the funicular. Traveling on it and on the funicular is already an exciting adventure. Staying on the mountain will give a lot of positive emotions, the brightest impressions and delights. Here is the oldest amusement park in the world with attractions from the 19th century, carefully preserved and safe to this day.

Its visit will bring pleasure to children and adults. In the picturesque park-reserve (next to the mountain) you can organize a picnic, so you should take a set of products with you. If you expect to spend the whole day here, there is an opportunity to go to local museums or a theater. The main purpose of the visit is to see an unforgettable panorama of the city from above. This can be done from 3 observation platforms: at the feet of Christ on the Sacred Heart Church, from the Collserola television tower and the Fabra Observatory.

Temple of the Sacred Heart

At the place where, according to legend, the devil tempted Christ with money in the monastery, the Church of the Sacred Heart was erected. We believe the name of the mountain is also shrouded: the words “I give you” were uttered by Satan. The holiday of the same name is celebrated by Catholics on the 13th day after Trinity. The project of an unusually beautiful and elegant Gothic structure was developed by the architect Sagner. Since the construction lasted for 60 years, the author did not live to see the completion of his offspring, and his son continued the work.

Many pointed domes are directed to the sky, and the central dome is crowned with a statue of Christ. The outstretched arms of the Savior, hovering in height on the central dome of the temple, seem to embrace the surrounding space. In the external appearance of the temple, the features of the Gothic style, architectural monumentalism and Byzantine motifs clearly appear.

The spectacle of a majestic building against the backdrop of foothill landscapes and blue skies is mesmerizing. 2 spiral staircases lead from the base of the basilica up to the statue of Christ, where an observation deck is equipped at his feet at a height of 572 m. The whole world is at your feet – you can't say otherwise when you come up here and see a beautiful picture below. The interior of the sanctuary will not disappoint either. It is noteworthy that along with ancient icons there are modern icon-painting works.

Colcerol TV Tower

In preparation for the 1992 Olympics, a television tower of the same name appeared on Mount Tibidabo in Collserola Park. This building, unusual in its form, still does not cease to amaze tourists. The project of a kind of tower was carried out by the British architect Foster, the Spanish engineers Calson and Vilardel.

The 13-story skyscraper looks like a 288-meter needle-rod, with a glazed circular gallery located at a 135-meter height. It serves as an observation deck where guests rise daily. The rise of tourists is carried out by a panoramic glass elevator. In 2.5 minutes, visitors find themselves on the site – the speed of the elevator is so high.

Judging by the reviews, when climbing, you experience the same sensations as in an airplane: it “lays” your ears and catches your breath. It is difficult to describe in words the impressions when you see monumental buildings that seem like toys from a bird's eye view. Even the famous Sagrada Familia, the huge Camp Nou stadium look like small copies. However, you can examine iconic objects in detail with survey telescopes located in the gallery.

Sagrada Familia

Just as Paris is associated with the mention of the Eiffel Tower, so Barcelona is identified with the Sagrada Familia (Sagrada Familia). But if there are copies of the Eiffel Tower in the world, then the Sagrada Familia cannot be reproduced in reality. This truly unique building, created by the brilliant creator Antonio Gaudi, is not subject to copying as a piece object. Gaudi devoted 43 years of his life to his “architectural poem”, the construction of which is still ongoing.

Looking from the outside at this masterpiece, it is hard to believe that it was built by human hands, and not by magic. The whole world admires the intricate structure and bows before the talent of an extraordinary artist. The bouquet of architectural styles embodied in the temple harmoniously fits into the overall surroundings of the majestic complex. Graceful Gothic towers lined with majolica, baroque facade decorations, modern diagonal supports – everything is harmoniously interconnected.

A huge number of designs are united into one whole not chaotically, but by logical transitions, lines and details. Every day, hundreds of pilgrims tend to visit the Sagrada Familia, they take the elevator to the observation deck. It is quite small, so you have to stand in line for a long time, but this does not bother people who are eager to go to the top.

Park Güell

An architectural and landscape miracle, also created by Gaudí's fantasy, Park Güell was founded in the first year of the 20th century on 62 hectares of the outskirts of Barcelona. A wealthy businessman Guell planned to sell plots of land for the construction of private houses with gardens, but the project was not fully implemented. The fate of the site was in the hands of Gaudi, who built his house here and created another masterpiece from waste land. As a result of grandiose works, an object has appeared that strikes the imagination with “miracles” that you will not see in other places.

It is noteworthy that even rubbish was used for their decoration: fragments of glass, ceramic tiles, porcelain, tiles. They lined, for example, a parapet-bench in the form of a writhing lizard at the entrance to the park. The first trash collage served as an example for European abstraction artists. Each fabulous building in Park Güell makes you wonder and admire. Gingerbread houses with sugar-coated roofs and brown walls seem edible.

The magnificent hall on the hillside with 86 columns-pillars, decorated with blue splashes of glass fragments from bottles, is amazing. Music concerts are held in the hall with excellent acoustics. In the free zone in the “Three Crosses” area of the park, there are observation platforms from where the beauty of Barcelona can be seen at a glance. Local musicians enchant with their Spanish guitars, adding to the delightful view. The people, enchanted by the “Gaudi fairy tale”, come here in droves every day.

Barcelona Arena

On the Plaza de España there is a beautiful building of a round shape, made of red brick, built for the favorite entertainment of the Spaniards – bullfighting. To its right is Fajol's house, with a façade decorated with the famous Butterfly. Today, when the dangerous art of bullfighting is banned in Barcelona, the building was rebuilt into the Barcelona Arena shopping center. It houses various shops selling consumer goods, and a large supermarket has been opened.

At the top of the building there is an observation deck, where you can take a paid elevator (1 euro). Spanish Square with all its sights is visible from a height. You can admire the picturesque park adjacent to the shopping center building, see the famous Moro sculpture “Woman and Bird”. On the opposite side of the square you will see a magnificent palace surrounded by fountains – the Museum of Catalan Art. Going down, you can see its expositions, which cannot disappoint.

National Palace

Looking at the magnificent facades of the National Palace, you understand the important role of International Exhibitions in the development of European cities. How many architectural and cultural objects appeared in them, thanks to exhibitions. It was for the MV of 1929 that the National Palace was built on Mount Montjuic in the capital of Catalonia. The guests of the exhibition could not but admire the majestic beauty and pomposity of the palace building, which continues to amaze with its magnificence today.

A 3-stage cascade descends from the palace, along which the jets of the main fountain flow. Equipped in 1929, the fountain was given musical accompaniment in 1990. In the evening, when 3620 jets are illuminated with different color shades, music sounds, the fountain becomes a magical sight. Within the walls of the palace is the National Museum of Art, with a rich collection of paintings and sculptures. From the palace square, an absolutely stunning panorama of the city opens up as a great addition to the tour of the palace and the museum.

Fortress of Montjuic

Another visiting card is the ancient fortress of Montjuic, the first mention of which dates back to the 11th century. She grew up from a lighthouse watchtower, from where the movement of the sea was monitored. From one tower in 30 days, the fortress of Montjuic arose in 1640 during the era of the “war of the reapers” or the Segador uprising, when the Catalans opposed the centralized policy of King Philip IV. The fortress has become a symbol of the selfless struggle of the Catalans for independence, described in many works of Spanish literature.

The citadel was rebuilt more than once, but today it does not give the impression of a very powerful structure. From it there were ancient walls, authentic cannons, a fluttering Catalan flag. The ascent to the castle is an interesting journey through the cactus park, past the fountain and small viewing platforms from which you can take incomparable shots. Having risen to the fortress, from a height you will enjoy a grandiose picture of the picturesque surroundings, producing the deepest aesthetic impression.

EL Carmel bunker roof

There is a place that symbolizes a difficult stage in the history of Spain – the civil war of the late 30s of the last century. This is a former bunker that has become the “heart” of the defensive battles of the Catalans. After the end of the war, the fortification, located at a high altitude, lost its role and turned into one of the best viewing platforms in the city. Climbing up to the roof of the bunker, you will be able to view an irresistible panorama from 4 sides.

The picture spreading below is beautiful at any time of the day. In the early morning in a foggy haze, illuminated by the bright sun during the day or shimmering with electric lights in the evening – it conquers the imagination. There are always visitors here; local youth, foreign tourists, people of all ages. Many who are physically capable go on foot. Those who do not rely on their own strength come here by bus N 24 or by taxi. To double your viewing pleasure, you can bring along a bottle of wine and sandwiches.

The roof of the Barselo Raval

On the Rambla del Raval, in the picturesque international district of the city, is the 4-star Barselo Raval Hotel. Significant sights are located nearby: Plaça Catalunya, the Liceo Opera House, the Boqueria Market and the Cathedral. Staying at this hotel is a great success for tourists, especially those who are in the city for the first time. The round building with an Art Nouveau lobby looks very attractive. Not everyone knows that the district of Raval is the former Barcelona ghetto with a special flavor, conveyed in the paintings of Pedro Almodovar.

On the 11th floor of the hotel there is a bar with an outdoor circular terrace, open from May to October. A visit to the bar is an obligatory item in the program of many tourists. Here guests are treated to various non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, delicious national and Asian dishes are prepared. At dinner, you can admire the surrounding Barcelona views and surroundings to your heart's content. They are especially beautiful at sunset, when everything is bathed in a crimson-gold glow. But even during the day, the picture spreading below is also wonderful and delightful.

Restaurant Torre de Alta Mar

If you want to enjoy stunning Mediterranean views from above, then you should visit an unusual institution. This is the Torre de Alta Mar restaurant, located in a cozy harbor on the Mediterranean coast. It is located in the building of the former cable car station, and its modern design amazes with the mastery of design art. Mirrored walls, visually expanding the space of the room, repeatedly reflect the beauty of seascapes. After a beach holiday, you can relax in a pleasant environment with a delicious lunch.

Even the most eminent guests of the city consider it an honor to visit a unique institution. It was visited by the famous singer Shakira, film director and actress Jodie Foster, Spanish football players, artists and artists. There is an atmosphere of friendly communication, warmth and carefree ease. It is difficult to tear your eyes away from that landscape splendor that opens from the restaurant hall. After all, nearby are the Sea Palace, a monument to Christopher Columbus, the Sea Palace.

Restaurant Terraza Martines

If you ever visit this iconic establishment located on Montjuic, it will become your favorite place to relax. The terrace restaurant Martinez is very popular with gourmets and tourists who love Spanish cuisine. There are always fresh oysters, a variety of salads, delicious seafood dishes. Special delicacies delight guests: paella, carpaccio, tartars, grilled lobsters. The restaurant is equipped with a special children‘s area, where young guests will have an interesting time. And parents can indulge in the gourmet enjoyment of food and wine tasting against the backdrop of urban landscapes.

From here you can see the port, with white yachts, boats, sailboats. Pleases the eye with a luxurious hotel Miramar, with a wonderful garden. The exquisite restaurant was designed by José Parrado, a well-known restaurateur and deli. His previously opened restaurant, El Cañete, gained wild popularity, which also transferred to a new institution. In it, the entire space is divided into 3 zones: an open terrace, a zone for VIPs and a bar room. Famous politicians, journalists, artists, musicians like to relax in the VIP zone. But getting into Martinez is not so easy, so it's better to book a table in advance.

Eleven BCN rooftop bar at the Calderon Hotel

To see the historical center in all its glory from a height is an undoubted success for any tourist. A visit to the bar terrace located on the roof of the Calderon Hotel will help to use this chance. Entrance here is available to everyone, not only hotel guests. It is located a few steps from Plaza Catalunya, so finding it is not a problem. Entering the Calderon lobby, call the elevator, press “11” – and in a couple of minutes you will be at the popular Eleven bar.

Everything in it is conducive to excellent leisure: comfortable sofas with pillows, round tables, light comfortable chairs, excellent service. Excellent varieties of Spanish wines, delicious snacks will be a pleasant addition to spending time in this truly beautiful place. Guests of the bar especially like the cocktails prepared by the bartender Ordoñez. The apogee of staying here is the contemplation of the architectural beauty of the Sagrada Familia against the backdrop of the blue mirror of the sea, Mount Tibidabo – all that makes Barcelona a unique city in the world.

El Corte Inqies department store

Paradise for shopaholics, a huge shopping center located on the square. Catalonia deserves undoubted attention. The range of goods here is truly universal – from small consumer goods to luxury goods of well-known world companies. Having visited El Corte Inqies, you can fully satisfy the demand using discounts. A 10% discount is provided by a foreigner's bonus card, which is issued upon coming to the store. Judging by the reviews, many tourists buy the necessary things here.

Another nice bonus of visiting a department store is a visit to one of the 3 restaurants located on the top floor of the building. Each of them offers its own menu and style of service. You can choose for yourself the most suitable option for your budget and taste preferences. Guest reviews testify to good cuisine, delicious dishes, large portions and not exorbitant prices. The greatest delight is the opportunity to admire the irresistible panorama of the city from here.