In a city filled with history, art and modernism bursting at the seams, Casa Batlló is undoubtedly one of the most admired buildings. Created by Antoni Gaudí , Casa Batlló is more than just an old residence, but one of Barcelona´s most visited tourist attractions. It goes without saying that when in the capital city of Catalonia, a visit to this masterpiece is a must.

There’s No Place Like Home

Josep Batlló was a distinguished textile industrialist in Barcelona, owning and operating many factories in the city. He and his wife only had one wish for their house: that it would be different than those of the others within the Batlló clan. Therefore, they chose to hire Antoni Gaudí to design an innovative and creative home, not limiting the artist in any way.

Casa Batlló was created between 1904 and 1906, but the original structure of the building, which is located on the bustling street of Passeig de Gràcia, was completed in 1877 by Emilio Sala Cortés. When Gaudí was first commissioned to work on the house, he was to knock down the existing structure and rebuild it from the ground up. However, it was later decided that renovations to the building would be much more practical.

The family lived on the noble floor of Casa Batlló until the mid 1950´s. The noble floor is the first floor in the building that currently houses the gallery, and from here the view allows visitors to overlook all of Passeig de Gràcia. Other rooms on display include the dining room, bathrooms, and many other spacious areas of the living quarters.

 

Animal Come to Life

 

Known for his symbolism and creative representation of daily images, Gaudí portrayed Casa Batlló in a similar way to his other works. The structure is based on the theme of an “animal come to life,” which evokes nature with organic structures and suggestive fantasy. Examples that are most evident include the façade, which boasts columns representative of bones, and a wavy shape that surrounds the entire face of the building, suggesting movement. The building itself is composed of beautifully colored mosaic tiles, representing fish scales and aquatic life. The roof of the façade bodes giant towers, symbolizing an animal’s spine, and these are doused with even more mosaic tiles.

The inside of the house was also influenced by mythical creatures, fantasy, and animal life. However, much of the house is built to be functional and practical too, and many consider it to be a “smart house,” even all these years later. One of the most apparent examples of this is the design of the handles on the stairwell, which are figurative of reptile spines, yet they are simultaneously shaped to fit the form of a human hand as one descends the inspired staircase.

 

Then and Now: Casa Batlló

Today, the house is a cultural museum for tourists and locals alike to witness and try to better comprehend the modernist mind of such a revered architect. The museum offers complete audio-guided tours for a general fee of around 18€.

Be sure to visit the roof of Casa Batlló, which offers a spectacular view of Barcelona, and is where even more of Gaudí´s masterpieces can be found. Tickets can be bought directly at the ticket office, located outside the front entrance of the building, or by visiting the Casa Batlló website. The building is open 365 days a year from 9am to 9pm. Located in the center of the city, on Passeig de Gràcia, Casa Batlló is easy to find, and hard to miss due to its exquisite colors that sparkle under the Barcelona sun.

 

 

There is so much to see when visiting the beautiful city of Barcelona, it can be difficult to find the time to do everything that you would like to. However, there are some places you absolutely must visit on your trip to Barcelona, and below we give you our top ten.

 

1. Sagrada Família

Admire Gaudí´s unfinished masterpiece towering over the quaint Eixample streets below. Dedicated to the Holy Family, Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí took over the construction of this incredible church in 1883, radically changing the design. Boasting a modernist style and breath-taking intricate features, the Sagrada Família has yet to be completed to this day. Don´t forget to visit the museum inside to explore some of Gaudí´s most interesting work.

Metro stop: Sagrada Familia (L2 & L5)

 

2. Las Ramblas

An experience you can´t miss is a stroll down Las Ramblas. Actually made up of five distinct boulevards or ´ramblas´, this famous 1.2km avenue in Barcelona is constantly buzzing with musicians, street performers, artists, living statues and stalls. Around halfway down Las Ramblas you will find the most famous market in Barcelona: La Boqueria. This is a fantastic place to visit with its colourful fruit stands and delicious tapas stalls. It is also great for picking up some fresh ingredients to try out some Spanish recipes of your own.

Metro stop: Catalunya, Liceu or Drassanes (L3)

 

3. Montjuïc

Visiting Montjuïc is an absolute must on your Barcelona trip as there are so many fantastic places on and around the hill to experience. For example, the very top you will find the historic Castell de Montjuïc, which was once an old military prison. Also, at the foot of the hill, the Magic Fountain offers you some amazing water acrobatics, which coupled with some bright colours and patterns, creates a stunning view, especially at twilight.

Metro stop for the fountain: Espanya (L3 & L1)

Metro stop for the hill: Paral-lel (L2 & L3) – then take the Funicular de Montjuïc train up the hill

 

4. El Born District

You will find the trendy El Born district on the opposite side of Via Laietana from the Gothic Quarter. Here you will encounter some fantastic museums as well as some of the quirkiest boutiques in Barcelona. The Picasso Museum is located in this vibrant area, as well as the magnificent Palau de la Música Catalana, just a short walk away in the neighboring 'barrio' of Sant Pere. This concert hall opened in 1908 and was designed by modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner. Over the years it has been host to some of the world’s best known orchestras.

Metro stop: Urquinaona (L4)

5. Camp Nou

Whether you are a football fan or not, a trip around the F.C. Barcelona stadium is essential to your visit to Barcelona. Here you can purchase tickets for matches as well as take the ´Camp Nou Experience´ - a tour around the impressive venue and its museum. The tour has an audioguide allowing you to explore the stadium at your own pace. Feel the true Barça passion when you see the most emblematic areas of the Camp Nou.

Metro stop: Collblanc (L5)

 

6. Parc Güell

Next on the list of Barcelona´s best attractions is Parc Güell. Also designed by Gaudí, this gorgeous park is decorated with mosaic-style sculptures and glasswork. Situated on a hill, its lush vegetation and beautiful architectural elements make this a great place to visit when the sun is shining. Plan for a relaxed stroll through the park with a few stops to admire the sculptures, and don’t forget to visit the museum inside the park.

Metro stop: Lesseps (L3)

7. Gothic Quarter

As you turn off Las Ramblas you will find the historic Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. This area is known as the heart of the city and is best explored on foot as its narrow, winding paths lead you to some fabulous Catalan-Gothic architectural sights, including the famous Catedral de Barcelona. The Gothic Quarter was once an ancient Roman village, so look out for some of the ruins that still stand today. Also, don´t forget to make a stop at some of this district´s charming squares including the Plaça Reial, which is home to a beautiful fountain, some lampposts decorated by Gaudí and a few tasty restaurants.

Metro stop: Jaume I (L4)

8. Tibidabo

The mountain of Tibidabo is definitely worth visiting when staying in Barcelona. At night you can see its majestic church lit up against the dark backdrop of the sky and during the day it offers amazing view of the city. Also home to an amusement park, it is a great place to spend a few hours if you are coming to the city with children.

Metro stop: Catalunya (L3 & L1) – take the Ferrocarril L7 to Av. Tibidabo station, then take the Tramvia Blau up to the Funicular del Tibidabo, which will then take you the rest of the way to the church and the amusement park

 

9. Passeig de Gràcia

The grand Passeig de Gràcia is known to be the financial and shopping hub of the city. Adorned with tall trees and bright lights, you will find some of the world´s most luxurious designer stores on this wide avenue such as Louis Vuitton and Prada, as well as some high-street names, including Zara and Bershka, a little further along. As you amble down this beautiful street, don´t forget to look out for two more of Gaudí´s finest buildings: La Pedrera and Casa Battló.

Metro stop: Passeig de Gràcia (L3)

 

10. Barceloneta

During the hotter months of the year, you can spend some time cooling down in the sunny Barceloneta area. Hit the beach and soak up the sun or enjoy a couple of cervezas (beers) in true Spanish style! If you are coming to Barcelona outside the summer months, you can still visit this laid-back part of the city as it has some fantastic seafood restaurants as well as many bars and cafés lining the beach.

Metro stop: Barceloneta (L4)

 

Whether you are coming to Barcelona for a short weekend break, a couple of weeks holidays or even a business trip, you can´t miss out on these fantastic attractions. Staying in a Barcelona apartment is a great way to enjoy the city as you can relax in the privacy and comfort of your fully equipped home-away-from-home (with your own living room and kitchen) after a long day of sightseeing!

 

Spring-Summer in Barcelona : crowded city full of color and energy with open air Café-Terraces,chiringuitos (beach bars), flower filled parks, summer festivities and traditional cuisine is just the perfect season to be in the most amazing city of Spain, Barcelona!

 

Spring-Summer Flower Bloom  Barcelona is definitely a sea of color in spring-summer. There is many suggestions when it comes to this season. Collserola Natural Park located behind the hill of TIbidabo a place where you can do any kind of sports without venturing far from the city. This place offers walking trails, biking trails and lots of other things you can do to enjoy natural fresh air. Twice a month except on August this park offers “astronomy nights” with great information and hands-on telescope experience. Another iconic place to visit is Park Guell of Gaudí where you can enjoy amazing views from the terrace. If you are a rose lover Parc de Cervantes I Rosera is the park for you. With a collection of over 2,000 different species.

 

 Café Terraces  Roof top Bars in amazing hotels, Open Spaces, terraces over looking the Mediterranean Sea.This chill out terraces where you can go with friends and have a cocktail night with stunning city views.
From Ramblas to Raval, Passeig the Gracia to Barceloneta just to mention few of them. This season definitely marks the beginning of a great weather for you to enjoy this open spaces and roof top gatherings.

 

 

Beaches in Barcelona  A city known around the world for having the best beaches. When the weather is heating up, you definitely need to be ready for an awesome time. From La Nova Icaria Beach, Mar Bella Beach, San Sebastiá, Bogatell, Paseig Maritimo to Barceloneta and few more. The long coast line is just full of great beaches and people hanging out at the chiringuitos or “beach bars” listening to live music sitting and enjoying a cocktail and light meal with friends and family.

 

 

 Catalan Cuisine  Spring-Summer season is definitely the most enjoyable. As the beaches of Barcelona comes to life you may enjoy a tasty paella, a traditional seafood noodle broth at sea side. Or just a great shrimp salad with seasonal vegetables. Spring-Summer is a good excuse to be inventive in the kitchen and this cuisine experts are definitely great on being creative.

 

 

 

While the city warms up and starts leaving some winter clothing behind and submerse themselves into a great weather, this up coming season is definitely ready to give you an amazing time in Barcelona!

Check out an easy to book apartment in Barcelona: early booking or last minute offers. If you are coming to Barcelona you can stay in the city centre or at a beach apartment in Barceloneta. You will have a more private and relaxing time with your loved ones when you stay in a Barcelona apartment. It is becoming really popular to stay in an apartment rather than a hotel. This way you are able to discover the city freely in a whole new perspective. You will have a sense of independence that you will not find in a single hotel room. If you are traveling for holidays or business trip, you can take advantage of a comfortable living room and a fully equipped kitchen that is definitely a big plus for your trip. Rent an apartment in Barcelona and enjoy your stay in perfect accommodation!

 Join on  Facebook fan page now! and you will be instantly participating to win a weekend accommodation in a luxurious apartment in Barcelona Spain! Also for great city insights to help plan your trip ahead in Barcelona!

  

Traffic in Barcelona is very dense, so it is difficult to park in the street. Parking places are expensive and most central locations are reserved for residents of the Area Verde (Green Zone Residents Area) This are exclusively reserved for residents 8am  to 8pm (and sometimes 24 hours) Monday through Friday,  and the ones that says "Àrea preferent" it accept all vehicles. Non-residents will pay higher prices and parking will be limited to 1 or 2 hours, from 8 to 8pm, Monday to Friday.

 

The blue squares "Àrea Blaves” are accessible to all vehicles, but with time restrictions (2, 3 or 4 hours) from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday. The rates of the green zone ranged between 1.08 euro and 2.94 euros per hour, depending on the area (A, B, C or D). From 8am to 8pm and at the end of the week, the Green Zone is free and open to all vehicles. You should be aware of  the parking signs... As well as the tow truck!! That is on the lookout.

We advice you to be careful with your belongings in crowded places the thieves are on the look out as well.

 

Private parking

 

The easiest and safest way is to park is in a parking garage where you can pay and it will be safe and watched. There is many parking places in all districts. We advise you to allow a portion of your budget to park your vehicle.
Here is a simple way to obtain a map of the area where you will find the location of the nearest parking lots: www.bcn.cat on this site the City Council, you will find all sorts of useful services. Once on the page, under "Cerca” Write the address of the apartment. Then, under "Serveis sobre el PLANOLES" select "Transport i Serveis Relacionats" then "APARC, you will see all the location of the parking garages you may find.. By clicking on the "P" You will get the address and hours for the parking available. This site does not provide prices, which can vary from 25 euros to 45 euros for 24 hours, depending on the area. Most of these parking spaces offer packages where you stay several days in Barcelona.

If you must go to one agency ComeToBarcelona, here is the map of the area with the nearest parking: Rambla dels ComeToBarcelona Caputxins No. 50 or ComeToBarcelona Barceloneta, calle Almirall Cervera No. 6.
Pound

You can come to ComeToBarcelona offices, here is the map of the area with the nearest parking: Rambla dels ComeToBarcelona Caputxins No. 50 or ComeToBarcelona Barceloneta, calle Almirall Cervera No. 6.

Tow truck

 

If by any chance the tow truck, towed your vehicle click on this link: “Grua City” To know in which location your vehicle was brought, you most provide your tag number. You will certainly find a sticker of the tow truck, a yellow triangle on the ground at the spot where your car was parked, registered with the name and telephone number of the tow truck , this are the documents you will need to provide to retrieve your car. (They can be filled out in English if you prefer) After doing the paperwork you must pay a fine to the City Ttowing Services it could be around 174 euros (by credit card or cash) to retrieve your vehicle you may end up with another warning paper on your windshield (That can be easily removed !!!).

 MOVING AROUND BARCELONA
Once your vehicle is parked in a safe area, the Catalan capital offers numerous transports to move around and visit Barcelona and its surroundings.

Bus

Touristic Buses
Metro
Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat et Renfe (trains)
Bicycle
Taxis
Tramvia (trains)
Telepheric

Air Transporter
Boat

 

 

Enjoy your trip and enjoy your stay in Barcelona with ComeToBarcelona! Be aware that some of our apartments have private parking during your search, use the filter characteristics and select "Parking!

Parking in the street

For your information: here are the main telephone numbers that will help you in case of an emergency during your stay in Barcelona. You will also find telephone numbers for specific services or simply for information about the city.

- Emergency numbers

Ambulance, fire brigade, police...: 112

Barcelona Police Station: 93 290 30 00.

For emergencies (Centro de atención primaria):

-Sagrada Familia centre: Còrsega street, 643, 08025 Barcelona‎ 935 072 580

- Gothic area centre : Passatge Pau, 1, 08002 Barcelona   933 425 549‎

ComeToBarcelona : (34) 637 715 428

Medical emergencies 061

National police 091

Local Police 092

Emergencies and road accidents 088

Civil Guards´ Police Force 062

Veterinary (service 24/24-heures) 93 205 31 16

Night pharmacies: 93 481 00 60

Ambulances 93 300 20 20 - 93 329 97 01

Hospital 93 454 60 00 - 93 418 34 00

Dental emergencies  93 227 47 47

 

- Embassies :

General Consulate of Italia - Eixample

Calle Mallorca 270, 08037 Barcelona

+34 93 487 0002 

General consulate of Belgium - Eixample

Calle Diputacio 303, 08009 Barcelona

+34 93 487 7669

Consulate of Germany - Gràcia

Calle Gracia 111, 08012 Barcelona

+34 93 601 2150     

Consulate of Canada  

Calle Catalunya 9, 08002 Barcelona

+34 93 317 0541 

Consulate of Great Britain - Eixample

Avenue Diagonal 477, 08036 Barcelona

+34 93 366 6200

General consulate of France - Eixample

Ronda Universitat 22, 08007 Barcelona

+34 93 270 3000     

General consulate of Russia  - Les Corts

Avenue Pearson 34, 08034 Barcelona

General consulate of United States - Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

Paseo Reina Elisenda de Montcada 23, 08034 Barcelona

+34 93 280 2227   

- Tourist information:

Tourist information centres of Catalonia:  

Terminal 1: (0034) 93 478 4704
Terminal 2B: (0034) 93 478 0565

The following link will indicate the contact details of all of Barcelona’s tourist centres.

http://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/sp/general/oficina-de-turismo-barcelona.html

- Other information:  

Taxis for disabled persons : 93 420 80 88

National and international calls:

National calls begin with 9. (With the country code). For the national and international calls, you will have to dial 00 + the country code (0044 for Great Britain) + the telephone number.  

Here is the testimony of a customer who has sent us her experience through our blog. We have added some photos.

"The story started out with an internship that I had to do in Barcelona. I had found a three month contract from April to June, and I had to prepare my luggage and my trip to this new city, which would be my new home. Looking for an apartment, changing your habits, leaving your family and friends behind, discovering a new city… all these things can sound very scary.

      

I took the plane, nervous about the days to come…  After three days of intensive research, and nights spent in hotels, I finally found an apartment with a rental agency: ComeToBarcelona. I moved into a flat near the gothic area, only 5 minutes away from my work place. A kitchen, bathroom, two rooms, and a large living room; clean, luminous and in the center of the city, I was thrilled!

I spent my days doing my internship in the morning, shopping, sun bathing and visiting in the evening and at the weekend. My first visits were to the Sagrada Familia and Montjuïc Park. Great places to relax and enjoy the scenery and the sea breeze during a hot summer´s day. My other visits included: The Guell Park, Barceloneta area, Montjuïc castle, the chocolate museum and many more!

I have discovered a cultural city and I won’t list the number of museums, architect houses, parks and concerts that I went to visit during my stay.

The Ramblas, and the Gothic area near my new apartment have become my living spaces. I went shopping in the famous Boqueria market as a real Catalan inhabitant (I don´t recommend you buy anything from the first shops which are real tourist swindles!). I went out at night at the Olimpic Port, ate  at “Tuccó” a little restaurant which offers you fresh pasta for less than 4 Euros in Escudellers blancs street! I went to cheer Spain on at Plaza de España for the World Cup Final, and now I have returned home with great memories and new friends…

On the whole, I realize that I have spent a great time in Barcelona. Even if I left my friends and family for a moment, it has been an entertaining trip which has made me discover the Spanish way of life. "

Alice

Come experience Barcelona, reaserving your apartment with ComeToBarcelona.

The Sagrada Familia

We don’t have to remind you how beautiful and well-known Gaudi’s work is. Initiated in 1882, and nature themed, this cathedral is still to this day in construction. You will be able to visit it for 10€. It opens at 9 am and closes at 2 pm. 

Montjuïc Hill

This vast park possesses many touristic places and activities, some of these including the castle, the Olympic stadium, the old Spanish village (that you can visit for 6- 9 euros), Miro’s foundation, the Greek theatre and many others. This is a nice hill pleasant for long strolls under a fresh marine wind during a hot summer´s day.

The Ramblas

Barcelona’s Champs Elysées, this avenue is a central place for touristic shops. The statues (human disguised) most definitely animate this street situated close to the Gothic areas.

The “Paseo de Gracia” 

Take a walk down this road where, in the olden times, rich and famous Spanish people went to walk at the weekend to boast. It is now still a famous passage where you will be able to find the Pedrera House (entry costs 11 Euros), the Battló house (between 15 and 18 Euros for a visit) and various luxury shops such as Chanel, Burberry, Yves Saint Laurent…

The Picasso museum

Although much of his work is kept for private collections, this museum displays numerous paintings of this famous painter. Located in calle Montcada, between Jaume I and Arc de Triumf metro stations, this museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am till 8 pm.

The Gothic area

It is a small pedestrian area and this part of Barcelona is very typical and home to many small bars, and restaurants. There you will find Barcelona´s cathedral and the Pie’s church which possesses the largest European rosette. 

The park Güell

Known worldwide, this park was created by the famous Barcelonese architect Gaudí. Initially built as a luxury park which would have regrouped beautiful properties, it was finally turned into a gorgeous park where you can admire Gaudi’s work (mosaic sculptures, aqueducts…).You will be able to visit the Gaudí museum located in the park Güell. The entry is free; it opens at 10 am and closes at 9 pm.

The Spanish village

Testimonial of the architectural history from all Spanish regions, this small village located in Montjuïc Park, near the national museum of Catalan Art, was built in 1929, for the international exposition. It opens Monday to Sunday, from 10 am till 6 pm.

The National Museum of Catalan Art

You can get to thismuseum via the Montjuïc Park or the “plaza de España”. Its slogan, which resumes the entire museum, is “one museum, 1000 years of art”. Come to admire paintings and sculptures by the best Catalan artists. The price of the visit is 8.5€; the museum opens at 10 am and closes at 7 pm between Tuesday and Saturday. It opens from 10 am to 2.30 pm on Sunday.

El Camp Nou

On November 29, 1899, Hans Gamper founded Futbol Club Barcelona, along with eleven other football enthusiasts, a sport that was still largely unknown in this part of the world. With a capacity of 98,800 seats, Camp Nou has the largest seat capacity in Europe!  It is located in western of Barcelona, approximately 5km from the city centre, in Arístides Maillol Avenue, in the Les Corts district of Barcelona. You are sure to enjoy a true Camp Nou experience when you go there: it opens at 10 am and closes at 5.30 pm. The price is 18.10€ per person.  

 El Born area 

El Born is a small, fashionable, but also very authentic village. Glassmakers and designers are located everywhere. Feel free to engage in dark alleys to discover the old Barcelona. It grew in the 13^th Century due to a commercial prosperity, El Born (The Ribera) along with the old Gothic Area makes up the old of Barcelona.

Come to see this cultural city and book your apartment with ComeToBarcelona.

The Greek Festival is an event of great importance in the city of Barcelona.
This event began with a small group of talented artist and over the years has become a real project dedicated to new talents and art. Each year is different, adapting in relation to the various participating artists you will find some independent shows throughout the city but all related to the festival, the idea is to exchange the passion and love for theatre and arts.

Frederic Amat responsible for the image of the event which mission is scouting new emerging talents all around the world to bring you an amazing spectacle. The event is open to everyone. From June 16  until August 1.

 There is a wide variety of events that you can attend: circus, dance or music that you can  find in theaters and libraries in Barcelona.
You can choose the event that you like on the website of  Greek Festival and book your tickets online. Each show is independent and has its own space reservation.

Do you love the theater? ComeToBarcelona.com will book your accommodations so you can come and enjoy the beauty of art in Barcelona.

Just a  few kilometers from Barcelona, Sitges:City that has hosted many artists such as Santiago Rusiñol, Ramon Casas, Miquel Utrillo and Charles Deering among many others, also  tourists and people from all parts of Spain. For many the secret that makes this city so magical is in its light, with over 300 days of sun per year, this said by many painters, sculptors and writers of the end of nineteenth century that came to settle in this small fishing village. Art and creativity are the key words to describe this city, which besides being cosmopolitan is also rich in architecture.

Full of amazing history, Roman culture that mixes, Arabic and Medieval. Sitges also offers various festivals like “The Sitges Film and Culinary Festival” and the famous “Jazz Music Festival of Sitges” during the months of June and August. You can also visit some museums or palaces like Maricel Palace, the Cau Ferrat Museum, or the Church of San Bartolome and Santa Tecla.

Right next to the natural park of Garraf, Sitges community count with  17 beaches, each with its own personality. All with direct interaction with nature. Sea caves that are formed by the power of the ocean, waves seething at the rocks sometimes producing huge caverns. Definitely one of the few reasons that makes this city an ideal place to spend the day or to plan your vacation.

After a long day by the sea you can enjoy the view by relaxing and enjoying a delicious dinner at the “Can Martí Restaurant”, where you can experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine or a wide variety of tapas. “La Casa Hidalgo” will delight who likes fresh seafood like lobster, shellfish and mediterranean fish traditionally cooked.

The gay community is very well accepted and welcomed. The city offers great places for the community such as “Bar La Locacola” or the “Beach House”. But there are many more ... visit: http://www.gaysitges.com/portada.html and you will find your perfect place.

Come and enjoy Sitges! ComeToBarcelona! 

A nice video to give you an idea of the mediterranean city! The song "BCN" by FUFÜ-AI, a french spanish band from barcelona!

Interested? Book now your apartment with ComeToBarcelona to visit Barcelona, an get a grat discount!