Barcelona is most surely one of the most exciting capital cities to visit in Europe. It boasts a really impressive offer, both in terms of culture and leisure. Still, there are certain things worth remembering if you don’t want to fall into a tourist trap (which are, unfortunately, common on a worldwide scale) and let the list below be your handbook of how to take full advantage of your stay in Barcelona.

It doesn’t matter if you are an experienced or novice market goer - when in Barcelona you really ought to pay a visit to one of the many city markets. Whether you want to buy specific things, be it souvenirs, art, food or second hand goods, or you just want to walk around and experience the hustle and bustle of Barcelona’s colorful and lively markets. Or you might just want to try the freshest produce or some baked goods. Or mix with the residents and soak in the local culture and atmosphere. Or all of the above. The reasons to visit the city markets abound, and luckily – so does the offering at each of Barcelona’s many markets. So pick one or a few you’d like to visit and add those to your list of must-see (& experience) sights because market shopping in Barcelona is a unique and wonderful experience!

Boasting a supreme assortment of venues that cater to a variety of cuisines whilst primarily promoting delectable Catalonian fare, the city of Barcelona makes the perfect destination for foodies seeking new and exciting dining opportunities. Scattered across the metropolis and available within easy reach of many of our Barcelona holiday apartments, the following five eateries grant gastronomic heaven to visitors desiring an unforgettable culinary experience.

The GSM Association Mobile World Congress is an annual event that takes place in Barcelona, Spain and is rightfully considered THE event for the mobile industry professionals and enthusiasts. Next year’s event is scheduled for February 24th through 27th and is projected to be the biggest such event yet attracting a record number of exhibitors, prominent executives as well as attendees. Whether you work in the mobile industry or are just passionate about it, be sure to mark these dates in your agenda and start planning your trip and accommodation on time.

Occupying a prime position along the famous Passieg de Gracia, within the popular Eixample district of the city, Casa Batllo is one of Barcelona’s most incredible examples of modernist architecture. Designed by the renowned, local architect Antoni Gaudi, this magnificent building offers an unforgettable experience to everyone who visits.

Barcelona Pride, taking place in June, is indeed huge and a lot of fun, but despite its international reputation and visitors coming from across the world it is in fact only the second largest LGBT event in Barcelona! It is the Circuit Festival in August that has managed to surpass Barcelona’s Pride festival and position itself as Spain’s main gay event of the summer and one of the biggest international LGBT festivals!

Barcelona’s network of bike lanes and quiet side streets, along with a newfound collective bike-o-phelia, make it one of the world’s best cities for cycling. Dozens of unique bike tours and unforgettable rides guarantee that once you get started you won’t want to leave the saddle. When you visit Barcelona, take advantage of the bike-friendly atmosphere and get your exploring done on a two-wheeler.

Conveniently situated within Barcelona’s modern Eixample district, along the bustling Passieg de Gracia, Casa Mila or La Pedrera as it is also known showcases some truly exceptional modernist architecture. Designed by the city’s famous architect Antoni Gaudi in the early 1900s, this fascinating structure is a sight definitely worthy of a visit.

Barcelona embraces its architecture and isn’t afraid of new architectural styles. In this city buildings are as dynamic as the culture where old and new sit side by side or combine to form a new hybrid.

Park Güell is a place which seems to reflect the spirit of Barcelona’s modernist heritage in the best way possible – after all, it was created by the one and only Antoni Gaudi and that’s why it exudes a magical, stimulating and a bit surreal atmosphere, making you feel as if you were a character of a fairy tale. Still, apart from the plenty of amazing sights found all over the place, the park offers also an additional attraction in the form a breathtaking view of the city available at its highest point – a true reward for all those willing to accept the climbing challenge.