Description
Book SynopsisThis intelligently planned series divides each city up into 4-5 districts centred on a key sight – for example the Rambla, Gaudi’s Sagrada Família, the old Gothic quarter, and the port district of Barceloneta in the case of Barcelona – and gives ideas for a perfect day in that part of town: the main sights and one or two quirkier ones too, the best places to eat or have a coffee, and some original shopping ideas, presented in an uncluttered and navigable format that respects the reader's intelligence. A good 50% of the book is dedicated to the art and history of the place, distinguishing these useable little books from many guides which are little more than practical information listings.
ABOUT THIS GUIDE
The city of Barcelona has been divided into five districts and the aim of this guide book is to enable you to have a great day out in any one of them. For each district first a short selection of the major art sights is given, then some other things to see in the area, followed by some ideas on the eat opportunities—from seafood to seeking out the best tapas—rounded off with our shortlist of shop recommendations.
In the practicalities section that follows we set the scene with a brief introduction to Barcelona, how to get around, its food and drink, and where to stay.
The history pages give an overview of the key events in this city's life, while at the back of the book there is a glossary covering some of the art terms and key personalities that appear in this guide, as well as a comprehensive index to help you find what you are looking for.
Maps are found throughout the guide. Inside the front cover is a map of all Barcelona, clearly indicating where the detailed maps to each district are to be found at the beginning of their sections. The numbers (2) on the maps locate the cafés and restaurants described later in that section, and the letters (a) locate the shops.
Table of ContentsTen things to do 2
About this guide 5
Practicalities 6
Transport 7
Visitor information 7
Entertainment 8
Shops 8
Food & drink 9
Where to stay 12
History 18
La Rambla & El Raval
Map 22
The Rambla 25
Palau Güell 30
Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA) 33
In the area 34
Eat 40
Shop 45
Gothic quarter
Map 48
The Cathedral 51
Plaça del Rei 55
Palau de la Música 57
In the area 60
Eat 65
Shop 68
Born-Ribera & Barceloneta
Map 74
Santa Maria del Mar 76
Museu Picasso 79
In the area 82
Eat 87
Shop 92
Upper Barcelona
Map 96
Sagrada Família 99
Manzana de la Discordia 104
La Pedrera 107
In the area 109
Eat 114
Shop 118
Montjuic Park
Map 124
Museu Nacional d’Art de
Catalunya (MNAC) 126 Miró Foundation 129
In the area 130
Eat 132
Shop 135
Glossary 137
Index 145
