Weekend breaks in Barcelona- the insider guide that will really make your trip

Barcelona is the place to go for people looking for a modern city with a strong sense of tradition, the most eccentric architecture ever designed, one of the world's greatest football teams, and unrivalled choice of options for eating, drinking and nightlife.

As well as the constructions of Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona was home to Joan Miro, and the artistic scene acted as a magnet to the young Picasso - both artists have museums dedicated to their works.

Barcelona has a streak of independence running through its veins that is apparent in all aspects of daily life, but in the years of repression that followed the Spanish Civil War the city lost all self-confidence and Barcelona seemed to be in a terminal state of decay. Its rejuvination can be traced back to the 1992 Olympics, when Barcelona was finally able to escape the shadow of Franco's dictatorship and shine once more in front of the rest of the world.

The massive increase in tourism only happened after the launch of the no-frills airlines and these airlines, led by easyJet, now dominate the routes to Barcelona. And the addition of direct flights from the United States means that the city has been opened up to visitors from America for the first time.

 

Why this guide is different

The aim of this guide is to really get under the skin of life in Barcelona and while you can't escape the sweeping tide of tourism completely, there are many places that have yet to be reached. Rather than offer just the usual tourist advice, we want you to experience life as it really is in Barcelona, by sharing what the locals know from first hand knowledge.

As most visitors spend just 2 or 3 nights in Barcelona, you have little time to waste. So why waste a moment of it if you can afford not to. We'll show you:-

• How to get there
• Where to find the best deals
• The best hotels
• The different accommodation options
• What to see and do when you get there
• The best time of year to go
• Where to eat and drink

So to get going and learn more about your weekend break in Barcelona, just follow the links to your left. And don't forget to so you can find us again next time. Also, you can buy FC Barcelona tickets online.