Barcelona is a fairytale city bursting with wonderful art and architecture that will rival any of the other European cities. There is a fabulous art scene and this vibrant place has so much on offer that has made it renowned the world over. Gaudi is the city’s most famous artist and the contemporary designs that have sprung from his legacy have made Barcelona one of a kind. But you don’t have to have a huge budget to get the best of the artistic offerings here, as there is plenty you can enjoy for free.
Enjoy Barcelona’s Art for Free
While there is little doubt that the stunning La Sagrada Familia seen in the flesh is nothing quite like anything else. No picture does this place justice but even if you don’t fork out the entrance fee to go inside you can still get so much from admiring the architecture from the outside. The details of the craftsmanship and the unique lines and shapes are awesome and you can easily spend an hour wandering round the exterior of this fascinating structure. On you way to La Sagrada Familia, if you walk along the Modernisme route, you will pass the Casa Mila and the Casa Amatller, which are both magical interpretations of fantasy houses that look like they should be in a theatre.
Apart from Gaudi, Barcelona is known for Joan Miro, the fabulous artist that has had a Fundacio set up to honour his work. There is a small price to pay to get into the Fundacio itself but Miro’s work is displayed throughout the city, most of which you can enjoy for nothing. The Parc de Joan Miro is full of his wonderful sculptures and there are many of his colourful mosaics on Las Ramblas.
On a Sunday most of the city’s museums are free. After 3pm you can visit the Picasso Museum, the National Museum of Catalonia, the contemporary CCCB Gallery and the Born Culture Centre and it will cost you nothing.
The wonderful thing about a visit to Barcelona for art lovers is that the city oozes art and style everywhere you go. El Ravel is one of the most famous streets for artistic offerings, and stencil art and wall murals decorate the street. Other artistic contributions include the Roy Lichtenstein sculpture and the Frank Gehry’s Peix right on the seafront.
Barcelona may be one of those cities famous for its museums and artistic heritage but you can actually enjoy most of it for free!
[mapsmarker marker=”46″]
How to Get to Barcelona
Barcelona is a city well served by transport links. Of course, you can take the train and book with Rail Europe or you can fly into the city’s main airport. In terms of transfers, Barcelona airport is an easy ride into the city. Book with Shuttle Direct and you will enjoy a hassle free, reliable and competitively priced service.
Whether you decide to book shared or private transfers, Barcelona airport is one of Shuttle Direct’s main transfer hubs so there are plenty of options. Book in advance and you will be picked up at the airport and whisked straight to your destination in a timely and efficient manner. Return journeys can be booked too.
[mapsmarker marker=”47″]
Where to Stay
Hostal Grau – Our budget choice in Barcelona is Hostal Grau, perfectly situated close to Las Ramblas and the MACBA Modern Art Museum. This eco friendly family run establishment has air conditioned rooms and free Wi-Fi. Lighting is energy efficient and all products are PVC free. Rooms may be simple but they are clean, stylish and comfortable with private bathrooms. Some have a balcony too. The restaurant is quirky and serves excellent dishes from the heart of the region. Wine and cocktails can also be purchased.
The Catalonia Catedral – The Catalonia Catedral is our mid priced accommodation option in Barcelona. This modern building has free Wi-Fi, a terrace, garden and rooftop swimming pool. Rooms are beautifully decorated and boast flat screen TV, mini bar and air conditioning. The hotel has a stylish bar and a brassiere that offers wonderful views of the Palacio Pignatelli Art Gallery.
Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona GL – If you want to spend a little more on your stay in Barcelona then the Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona GL is our luxury choice. A spa, with steam baths, sauna and treatments, a fitness centre, swimming pool on the roof, terrace and wonderful views set this stunning hotel apart from the rest. With a beautiful neoclassical façade, the modern, stylish rooms boast stunning décor, flat screen TV and air conditioning. The hotel’s two restaurants serve fabulous food and the Piano Bar offers live music. Summertime sees the Dolce Vitae Cocktail Bar open by the pool too.
