7 reasons to join us on a cruise to Barcelona

Barcelona, the living pearl of Catalonia, is one of Europe's most fascinating and popular destinations. This fascinating city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, excellent gastronomy and an incredible atmosphere that will immediately absorb you. If you're still hesitant to put this destination on your bucket list, here are seven irresistible reasons why you shouldn't miss Barcelona on your cruise:

1. THE CITY OF ART AND ARCHITECTURE - BARCELONA AS AN OPEN-AIR GALLERY

Barcelona is a city full of unique architecture and art left by the masters of its time. Most notably, the brilliant architect Antoni Gaudí, whose original buildings adorn the city and captivate visitors from all over the world. Among his most famous works are the Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, the majestic Sagrada Família and the enchanting Park Güell. Although these buildings are iconic, they are not Barcelona's only artistic gems. The city's streets, squares and parks are literally open-air galleries, where the work of artists past and present, famous and lesser-known, mingle. In addition to Gaudí, Barcelona is associated with three other 20th century art greats - Pabel Picasso, Joan Miró and Salvador Dali.

2. SAGRADA FAMILIA - THE ENDLESS STORY OF ARCHITECTURE

Barcelona's iconic temple, designed by none other than the famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí, has been under construction for an incredible 135 years. Yet its completion is still nowhere in sight, which only adds to its mystique and uniqueness. Seeing the Sagrada Família under construction is a classic experience that visitors to Barcelona should not miss. The temple is scheduled for completion in 2026, exactly one hundred years after Gaudí's death. When completed, it will have a total of 18 towers, with the tallest reaching 170 metres in height, surpassing the world's tallest cathedral in Ulm, Germany. The Sagrada Família is not only a symbol of Barcelona, but also one of the greatest masterpieces of world architecture.

3. LA RAMBLA AND LA BOQUERIA MARKET - THE HEART OF BARCELONA, WHERE LIFE AND TASTE MEET

La Rambla is the living heart of Barcelona, where streets full of street performers, cafés and constant hustle and bustle come together. From colourful flower stalls to acrobats who will mesmerise you with their stunts, just a few steps will put you in the centre of the action. And right in the heart of La Rambla is the Mercat de la Boqueria, where every corner tells a story. The smell of fresh fruit, fish straight from the sea and ham that melts on your tongue will literally engulf you. This market is not just a place to shop, but an experience that will transport you to a world of Catalan flavours and aromas. La Boqueria is a gem that you can't miss in Barcelona.

4. GÜELL FAIRYTALE PARK - GAUDI'S DREAM COME TO LIFE

Originally Antoni Gaudí was to design a garden city for the wealthy businessman Usebi Güell, but the plan fell through. The result, however, is a park that today amazes visitors from all over the world. Güell Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is a truly fabulous place. On 18 hectares, nature meets nature with fantastic Gaudi design, where curves and mosaics mingle with greenery to create a magical atmosphere. A walk through this park is like a journey into a fairy tale, full of colourful details and breathtaking architecture.

5. CATALAN CUISINE - A TASTE OF BARCELONA

Barcelona offers visitors a wide choice of places to sample local specialities. From cosy cafés and tapas bars to family-run pubs and upmarket restaurants, there are plenty of options to satisfy even the most demanding gourmets. Fresh ingredients, especially fish, seafood and seasonal ingredients from local markets, are the foundation of Catalan cuisine. The Catalans pride themselves on their "cuina del mercat", or "market cuisine", which is based on the utmost freshness and quality. Barcelona is also a city of tapas - small snacks and one-offs can be found on almost every corner. Tapas bars offer a plethora of variations, from traditional to modern innovations, and every visit brings a new gastronomic experience.

6. STADIUM CAMP NOU - EUROPEAN GIANT AND HOME OF FC BARCELONA

The Camp Nou Stadium is not only home to one of the world's most famous football clubs, but also the largest stadium in Europe with a capacity of almost 100,000 spectators. This monumental venue is open to the public, so you can tour the stadium itself and soak up the atmosphere that breathes history. In addition to the football experience, you can visit the Museum of FC Barcelona, where you'll find iconic trophies, rare memorabilia and original jerseys that tell the story of a club full of glory and passionate fans.

7. BEACHES AND MARINE AQUARIUM

Barcelona, a city on the Mediterranean Sea, offers the perfect mix for those who want to enjoy the sun and the sea. With more than 4 kilometres of beaches, including the lively Barceloneta, which is full of restaurants and activities, there is something for everyone. On the beaches, you can not only relax but also play sports - try beach volleyball or rent a surfboard. If you fancy a taste of the underwater world, visit L'Aquàrium de Barcelona. With more than 11,000 animals and a fascinating 80-metre underwater tunnel where you can see sharks and rays, the aquarium offers an unforgettable experience. For adrenaline junkies, there's also the option of diving with sharks.

If you are looking for adventure, adventure and authentic Spanish charm, Barcelona will not disappoint and will become a place that will be etched in your memory forever.

This year you can sail to Barcelona with us on 11 cruises with transport and a delegate. A selection of Mediterranean cruises can be found here.