Vancouver port guide.

Consistently rated among the world’s best cities, Vancouver’s mass appeal knows no bounds. Surrounded by sea, verdant countryside and mountain peaks, the city’s position in British Columbia is an attraction in itself, but Vancouver is much more than a gateway to the Sea-to-Sky highway and the snowy slopes of Whistler.

With a dense multicultural population, the city is a diverse and cosmopolitan destination, rich with art, history and a unique culinary identity that’s gaining momentum all the time. Beyond Vancouver, you’ll find opportunities to hike, ski and kayak, as well as the chance to bathe in the world’s most mineral-dense thermal springs.

Top landmarks and sights in Vancouver.

From characterful neighborhoods like Gastown and Chinatown, to Stanley Park and the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Vancouver offers a dynamic blend of cultural and natural treasures to explore. You’ll find impressive feats of architecture and engineering, as well as adrenaline-fueled experiences to set your pulse racing.

A walk through Stanley Park is an absolute must. The 1,000-acre space is an oasis in every sense of the world, and the city’s number one attraction. Created in 1888, Stanley Park is unlike anything you’ve experienced, combining rainforest, beaches and historic landmarks with walking trails, ambient restaurants and an aquarium offering countless species of exotic fish.

In North Vancouver, The Capilano Suspension Bridge and the Grouse Mountain are among the top landmarks to seek out. The bridge snakes a 140-meter route through the treetops, 85-meters above the Capilano River. The scenery is magnificent and the experience truly unique.

Grouse Mountain, just 15-minutes from Vancouver downtown, offers an abundance of year-round attractions. Take the Skyride, North America’s largest aerial tramway, to the summit for alpine shopping, mountainside dining and ranger talks at the Refuge for Endangered Wildlife.

Things to do in Vancouver, British Columbia.

There’s no shortage of things to do on a port call to Vancouver. From museums and galleries to shopping, historical neighborhoods, and an abundance of outdoor pursuits, Vancouver is a city that really can claim to have it all.

Spend an afternoon browsing the contemporary collections at the Vancouver Art Gallery, including works by British Columbian artist Emily Carr, or enjoy the sweeping city views from the 130-meter high platform of the Vancouver Lookout at the Harbour Centre.

Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, Gastown, offers quaint cobbled streets and some of the city’s most historic buildings (many now occupied by trendy boutiques and hip restaurants) while its Chinatown, established in the 1890s, buzzes with vibrancy and color.

Just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, the neighboring city of Burnaby offers the chance to explore a 1920s village, where costumed actors maintain the illusion of traveling back in time. Further afield, Whistler offers great skiing or hiking opportunities, depending on the time of year and, if time permits, the small town of Squamish is also en route and the surrounding scenery spectacular.

Harrison Hot Springs, built on the shores of Harrison Lake, is around two hours from Vancouver. The springs are among the most mineral-rich in the world and a visit to the area can be combined with a walk through Sasquatch Provincial Park.  

Eating and drinking near Vancouver cruise port.

Vancouver is a multi-culturally diverse destination and nowhere is this more evident than in its culinary offer. The city is home to several outstanding restaurant districts, each with their own unique identity.

If Asian cuisine appeals, you couldn’t find yourself in a better place. Almost half of Vancouver’s residents are Asian, and consequently Japanese, Korean and Chinese restaurants are abundant in the city, the biggest concentration in Richmond and West Robson. Commercial Drive and Gastown are good all-rounders, offering a variety of excellent international restaurants.

If craft beer is your thing, Main Street offers a choice of microbreweries, alongside a good array of vegan and vegetarian eateries. If you’re looking for more casual fare, a sweet pastry or something you can eat on the go, the Granville Public Market on Granville Island has a great array of food stalls and is open daily.

Shopping in Vancouver.

If shopping appeals whilst in Vancouver, the city’s boutiques, malls and markets won’t disappoint.

Downtown Vancouver, particularly the area around Robson Street, is where you’ll find popular international brands, alongside native Canadian labels.

Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, is another of the city’s main shopping destinations, with a higher concentration of high-end retailers alongside stores selling antiques and First Nations art. Main Street by comparison favors more independent retail, and is the place to head if you’re looking for small boutiques and unique items.

In neighboring Burnaby, a SkyTrain ride from the city, you’ll find Metropolis at Metrotown, British Columbia’s largest shopping mall. While Granville Market, offers the chance to buy locally made crafts, art and artisanal wares, including jewelry, homewares and skincare, and is well worth a visit if you’re seeking a natively produced keepsake to remind you of your time in Vancouver.

Vancouver culture and history.

One of the most wonderful things about Vancouver is its history.

Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, Italian and Indian migrants have all shaped the city, resulting in a harmonious melding of cultural influences. You’ll notice streets named after Spanish settlers who arrived in the 17^th Century, while Spanish Banks, one of Vancouver’s loveliest beaches, honors the place where Captain George Vancouver met with Spanish Captains, Valdez and Galiano, in 1792.

Vancouver’s tea houses and cherry trees can be traced back to arrival of Japanese immigrants in the late 1800s, while the city’s Chinatown began with the Chinese workers who came to labor on the railroads and in Vancouver’s mines. Vancouver’s burgeoning lumber industry later attracted Indian workers, whose presence can still be felt in the six blocks around Main Street known as Punjabi Market or little India. Italians then followed after World War II, creating a community anchored around Commercial Drive that still lays claim to Vancouver’s best espresso bars.

Other notable moments in Vancouver’s history include Houdini suspending himself from the city’s Sun Tower in 1920 and Elvis Priestly singing at Vancouver’s Empire Stadium in 1957. More recently, Vancouver has become a popular filming destination, resulting in the city being dubbed ‘Hollywood North’ while its hosting of the 2010 Winter Olympic Winter Games saw Canada proudly take home a gold medal in the men’s hockey.

Vancouver port facilities and location.

Vancouver’s cruise terminal, Canada Place, is conveniently located near the city’s downtown, with many shops, restaurants and noteworthy attractions within walking distance.

Flyover Canada, a state of the art flight simulator that incorporates wind and other immersive effects, can be found in Canada Place, while shuttle busses and taxis are available to take you where you want to go.

Your guide to San Francisco.

“Every man should be allowed to love two cities - his own and San Francisco,” said author Gene Fowler, and as you sail into the port, under the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s not difficult to see why. Located in Northern California, San Francisco’s hilly streets offer striking glimpses of its famous bay below. Discover fantastic food, local wines and glorious views in this vibrant metropolis where springtime lasts year-round. From Fisherman’s Wharf to Alcatraz Island and the 1000-acre Golden Gate Park, San Francisco is a destination with something for everyone, where many hearts have been captured and lost.

Exploring.

Fisherman’s Wharf is where you will find the Wax Museum and harbor tours passing around Alcatraz. Do not forget to stop at K-dock to see the sea lions lazing off Pier 39. San Francisco’s cable cars offer fantastic city views, while walking the Golden Gate Bridge takes around an hour. Famously curvy Lombard Street descends down Russian Hill, and Coit Tower features a history museum. Chinatown and Japantown offer picturesque pagodas and sacred temples, while the impressive gold dome of City Hall is modeled on St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Montgomery Street, the “Wall Street of the West,” provides insight into California’s Gold Rush era, complete with stagecoaches and gold nuggets at the Wells Fargo Museum.

Eating and drinking.

San Francisco is a haven of restaurants with every kind of cuisine on offer. At Fisherman’s Wharf, seafood fans will find a variety of stalls preparing fresh fish dishes. Pier 39, further along the waterfront, also offers two levels of restaurants, with views of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge. The passages between Union Street lead to delightful courtyards and mews full of restaurants and delicatessen, while North Beach is home to the city’s Italian community where you can find freshly prepared pasta. For Asian cuisine, including dumplings and noodle dishes, seek out Chinatown or Japantown, the latter of which offers excellent sushi bars.

Shopping.

San Francisco has several major retail centers (often called marketplaces) which will delight those who want to indulge in afternoon shopping. In Union Square, the heart of San Francisco’s downtown district, you will encounter America’s top department stores, boutiques and flower stalls gracing the sidewalks with colorful displays. Union Street’s restored Victorian buildings now house fashionable boutiques, specialty and antique shops and art galleries. Pacific Heights is one of the city’s most upmarket areas, while the former hippie hangout and flower power haven of Haight-Ashbury is now a collection of stores selling second-hand clothes, antiques and books just a few blocks from Golden Gate Park.

Beyond San Francisco.

Alcatraz Island, once a federal prison housing convicts like Al Capone, is a mile from shore, and boats depart from Fisherman’s Wharf throughout the day. Once there, an audio tour narrated by former inmates guides you through the cells. Eight miles north of San Francisco is Sausalito, a picturesque Mediterranean-style community full of boutiques, cafés and restaurants. Golden Gate Park is home to the Strybing Arboretum, Botanical Gardens and the Japanese Tea Garden, while a trip through Napa Valley’s wineries is a must for wine lovers. Finally, California’s Berkeley University campus offers guided tours, which include the Greek Theater and Memorial Stadium.

Enjoy the superb bay views, cross the steep rolling hills by tram, explore eerie Alcatraz and visit the Museum of Modern Art. Or head for the celebrated vineyards of the Napa and Sonoma Valleys.

Fort Lauderdale is world famous for its magnificent beaches, watersports, retail, and its canals and marina. Relaxing on the golden sands is a popular pastime, but there’s no shortage of alternatives.

Your Guide to Fort Lauderdale.

Situated in Broward County, on southern Florida’s Atlantic coast, Fort Lauderdale is famous for its beautiful beaches, excellent shopping and superb dining. Known as the ‘Venice of the USA’ the city is a dynamic destination offering many scenic waterways to explore and a bustling riverfront lined with cafes, shops and eateries. Take a stroll around Fort Lauderdale’s historical districts, savour a barefoot walk on the beach or take in the city’s mansions on a chartered river cruise. When you’re back on dry land, take a moment to explore downtown or make a beeline straight to Miami, where Ocean Drive and South Beach are among the famous sights to explore.

Exploring.

Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, its downtown, and coast offer plenty for visitors to see and explore. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park has direct beach access and two short nature trails for the keen walker. Bonnet House, a 1920-built property with sub-tropical gardens offers lush vegetation and resident monkeys, close to the International Swimming Hall of Fame. An outstanding Museum of Art can be found in the heart of the city while a river cruise, from Riverwalk, reveals the city’s private palatial mansions. Downtown is Old Fort Lauderdale Village and Museum, offering three historic buildings dating from the early 20th century.

Eating and drinking.

Fort Lauderdale has innumerable cafés and restaurants, from intimate waterside bistros and steakhouses to numerous seafood options. Cuisines such as Cuban and Mexican often represent excellent value while European restaurants are usually more expensive, however many offer a fixed-price menu. A walk along Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale Beach, the Riverwalk and downtown will reveal all manner of eateries, while food courts can be found within the city’s malls. American food is overwhelmingly represented and portion sizes can be mountainous. The city also boasts excellent seafood and fish restaurants - offering shellfish, oysters and locally caught Florida lobster.

Shopping.

Florida is famed for its shopping and Fort Lauderdale is no exception. Beach Place, just north of the International Swimming Hall of Fame, has a good mix of shops and eateries. Galleria Mall, to the south, has over 120 shops, including Saks Fifth Avenue. In downtown Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas Boulevard and the Riverfront are both worthy of a visit. Swap Shop, on W Sunrise Boulevard, is an interesting flea market with a food court complex. Florida’s second-biggest tourist attraction after Disney World, Sawgrass Mills Mall boasts more than 300 retailers, and is situated on the western outskirts of Greater Fort Lauderdale.

Beyond Fort Lauderdale.

Florida’s second largest city, Miami, can be reached from Fort Lauderdale by Tri-Rail. Must-sees include the Art Deco Historic District, with over 800 restored buildings, and a stroll along the city’s famous Ocean Drive. Elsewhere in the city Miami Seaquarium offers shows featuring dolphins, killer whales and sea lions. The 70-room Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is filled with antique treasures including furniture, and just a stone’s throw from the Museum of Science and Space Transit Planetarium. Closer to the cruise terminal, Fort Lauderdale Beach, part of Florida’s first designated Blue Wave Beach, is a three mile stretch of golden sands, a short taxi ride from Port Everglades.

Please be aware that the state of Florida has a 6% sales tax, which is added to the cost of many purchases and restaurant bills.

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory that was first settled by the English in the early 1600s.

The islands, shaped like a fishhook, became a key strategic outpost for two centuries. At the tip of their “barb,” the Royal Naval Dockyard was a powerful symbol of seafaring might. This huge complex officially closed as a military institution in 1951, and the restored Commissioner’s House is now filled with various nautical exhibits, while many of the old barracks and warehouse buildings now house local potters and ceramicists. It’s well worth a look around.

At the very opposite end of the “fishhook,” St. George waits to transport you back in time. The original capital of the islands is a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site, listed for being the “earliest English urban settlement in the New World.” At its heart lies King's Square, with the polished wooden 17th century stocks and the dusky pink town hall. Yet perhaps the real joy of the town is to wander the narrow alleys and cobbled lanes that have such evocative names as Silk Alley, Barber’s Lane Alley and Printer’s Alley, where the islands’ first newspaper hit the press.

While there’s much history to ponder, you may simply decide to wander the waterfront and browse the boutiques of Hamilton.

Saying that, many of the attractions in Bermuda are natural. You’ll no doubt want to see the famous pink sands for yourself, and perhaps even bask on wonderfully named beaches like Elbow Bay and Horseshoe Bay. The Bermuda Railway Trail is an invitation to explore on two wheels along a route looking out onto the Atlantic as you pass through exotic plants and flowers. It’s even beautiful underground, at least in the Crystal Caves, a beautiful subterranean world of lakes, stalactites and stalagmites.

Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, one of the oldest cast iron lighthouses in the world, both challenges you with 185 steps then rewards you are sweeping views over the ocean. Although you may prefer being out on the water. In which case, boarding a glass-bottomed boat offers a glimpse into the brightly hued marine world that thrives around the coral. How about relaxing on a catamaran as you sightsee your way to a secluded swimming spot? Or paddle your way around the rocky shoreline by kayak, keeping an eye out for the birds and marine life.

But for the thin strip connecting it to the mainland to its south, Cadiz is an island of history and architecture that impresses at every turn through the streets of this charming ancient port.

You will find a complex warren of streets, bustling bars and pretty beaches; it is difficult to know what to do or where to go first. Packed with historic sites, monuments and an excellent museum of art and archaeology, Cadiz is a draw for history buffs and those attracted by the arts.

To begin with, consider a visit to the Catedral de Cadiz, an elegant, baroque-neoclassical, yellow-domed cathedral. Admire the view from the Campo del Sur as the sun goes down to see a breathtaking array of colors. Outside the cathedral, you will find the sizeable Casa del Obispo museum. It is on the site of 1,640 square yards of excavated ruins, and helps to bring to life the colorful history of Cadiz.

Cadiz is home to one of Spain’s most famous carnivals – Los Carnavales. Roaring on for two weeks, this carnival is distinctive due to its celebration of the clever, the witty and the irreverent. Rehearsals and contests are held throughout the year, meaning that in Cadiz, the carnival feels omnipresent.

When you are ready to relax after all that heat, head to one of Cadiz’s many beautiful beaches. Try Playa de la Victoria, a spacious beach with a happy and relaxed vibe and easy transport links. It is just over half a mile south of the Puerta de Tierra and stretches 2.5 miles along the peninsula. Whether you want to sit back and enjoy the weather or try your hand at some water sports, you can do it all here.

You may also want to visit La Caleta- this pretty beach is sandwiched between two castles; Castillo de Santa Catalina and Castillo de San Sebastian. It is not difficult to see why this beach is one of the most photographed in the city, and the picturesque cove also attracts many small fishing boats at sunset. Make sure to pick up some seafood by the beach, as it is some of the best in Spain.

The history of this Spanish city is fascinating and complex. La Pepa, Spain’s first liberal constitution was signed here in 1812. It went through plenty of turbulent times, too: in 1587, England’s Sir Francis Drake raided the harbor and “singed the King of Spain’s beard,” delaying the Spanish Armada. The city came under siege again in 1596, when Anglo-Dutch attackers burnt the city to the ground.

Fortunately, Cadiz’s fortunes changed in the 18th century, when it saw 75% of Spanish trade with the Americas. Because of this, Cadiz grew into one of the richest and most cosmopolitan and diverse cities in Spain, producing the country’s first progressive and liberal middle class.

Barcelona port guide.

Providing the perfect way to soak up the many sights and sounds of Barcelona life, a cruise will allow you to explore the city’s abundance of exciting attractions, exquisite examples of Spanish cuisine including mouth-watering tapas, and many historic landmarks. And, as the sun goes down, the city truly comes alive, with an array of restaurants, bars, clubs and entertainment venues.

Here’s our guide to everything you need to know about this magnificent city. 

Top landmarks and sights in Barcelona.

Barcelona is bursting with tourist attractions, museums, iconic landmarks, parks, and other attractions. It’s safe to say there’s plenty to do and see.  

Whether you spend your days exploring Sagrada Familia, the holy cathedral designed by Antoni Gaudí and Barcelona’s number one attraction, visit the iconic FC Barcelona Camp Nou stadium, or soak up the bustling streets of Las Ramblas, you’re sure to leave with fond memories. 

Other top sights include Parc de Montjuïc and the Magic Fountain, Palau de la Música Catalana, and the Boqueria Market. And, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in some contemporary art and street art, make sure that you head to The MACBA, Barcelona’s cutting-edge contemporary art museum. This museum is one of the most well-regarded institutions of its kind in the whole of Europe

Barcelona culture and history.

Barcelona is a fascinating place. The city’s culture stems from 2000 years of history, which can still be seen throughout the city today. Barcelona is also a bilingual city where Catalan and Spanish are both official languages and widely spoken. 

Natives are incredibly proud of their regional identity, culture and language, so you can expect to enjoy a fascinating insight into the city’s history and traditions. The winding streets, busy event calendar, and the beautiful buildings enchant visitors from all corners of the world. And, when it comes to music and festivals, there’s always something to celebrate in Barcelona, with processions, parades, festivals and parties being part and parcel of everyday life in the city. 

As well as traditional street parties, there’s also a plethora of famous rock and dance festivals that take place every year, including Sonar Festival, Primavera Sound and Cruilla.

Eating and drinking in Barcelona.

Barcelona’s cruise port is home to some incredible restaurants and eateries where you can sample traditional Spanish dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking to tuck into your favorite tapas on a stunning sun-drenched terrace, sample a traditional Spanish menu in beautiful surroundings, or people-watch in the sunshine with a refreshing drink, there’s a huge choice of eateries, many of which are no more than an 11-minute walk from the port. You will also find lots of cafes selling a delicious collection of ice cream – perfect for cooling down after a busy day exploring. 

Shopping in Barcelona. 

Barcelona is a fantastic shopping destination. In the city’s shopping streets, you’ll find everything from designer shops and boutiques, to popular high street shops, such as Mango and Zara. The Portal de l’Àngel, just off Placa de Catalunya, is where you will find shops selling exclusive brands, or head to Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol for designer boutiques and handicraft shops. And if you’re looking for well-known designer brands such as Gianni Versace and Gucci, make sure you visit Avinguda Diagonal.

La Ramla is the place to be if you’re on the hunt for souvenirs, bookshops, flower stalls and cowboy boots. Corbeto's Boots, is a western shop with more than 60 years of history, and is renowned for its fabulous cowboy boots and western accessories. Of course, like any Spanish city, the markets in Barcelona are the most authentic way to go shopping, including Boqueria Market.

Transport in Barcelona. 

Barcelona has some fantastic transport links, making it easy to travel in and around the city, as well to and from Barcelona Port. 

Reliable transport links in the area include the Metro, FGC and Tram, which all provide a quick and easy way to explore the city. There’s also a fleet of over 1,000 fully adapted buses that serve all areas of Barcelona, as well as plenty of taxis should you need one. 

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add a new and exciting dimension to your Barcelona travels, you can always choose to hop on a bike and discover the city this way.

Barcelona port facilities.

Barcelona is one of Europe’s leading tourist destinations for both local and international visitors. As a result, the port is perfectly equipped to accommodate the needs of the city’s many visitors, all year round. 

Positioned to service cruise traffic for both Barcelona and the region of Catalonia, the port operates five public cruise terminals and has increased cruise passenger traffic to become the largest cruise port in Europe. It’s also the fourth largest in the world! 

The port’s facilities include well-equipped terminals, security forces and the very best health and safety processes. 

Top tips for visiting Barcelona. 

Before any trip to Barcelona, remember to familiarize yourself with the things that you should and shouldn’t be doing in the area. Here are just some of them:

• Be sensitive to the politics of both Barcelona and Catalina
  
• Book your La Sagrada Familia ticket before your trip
• Use the multi-day metro cards to save on transport
• Watch your purse – although Barcelona is a safe city, the area is notorious for pickpockets
• The Picasso Museum and the Barcelona City History Museum are both free on Sunday afternoons and evenings

The best time to visit Barcelona is definitely during the summer months. 

Your guide to Rome.

Calling at Civitavecchia brings you within an hour of Rome, Italy’s ancient UNESCO heritage city. From port it’s just a 60-minute train connection to the Eternal City, where architectural wonders of yesteryear abound, ready to transport you back to a time of Emperors, sculptors and gladiators. Step inside the iconic curved amphitheater of the Colosseum, scale the Spanish Steps or seal your wish with a coin at the Trevi Fountain. While there, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Vatican City, Europe’s smallest independent state. It’s here that you’ll find the Sistine Chapel with its beautiful ceiling frescoes artfully painted by Michelangelo – a simply stunning sight to behold. 

Exploring.

However you spend your time in Rome, the city is sure to enchant you with its unequivocal beauty. Vast and sprawling, winding alleys twist into open squares and history reveals itself around every corner. If you’re keen to explore a few of the city’s most famous sights then the metro is a good option to help you navigate from point to point. The Colosseum, inaugurated in 80AD, can be combined with a visit to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Likewise, in Vatican City, you’ll find many symbolic attractions, from the holy temple of St Peter’s Basilica to the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s greatest masterpiece will leave you spellbound.

Eating and drinking.

Charming trattorias, classic pizzerias and hip enotecas are the pinnacles of Rome’s dining options, offering visitors a true taste of Italy. Whether craving al dente pasta tossed with garlic and clams or a thin crust pizza oozing with creamy Burrata, you’ll find it among the city’s endless stream of cafés, bars and restaurants. As with all touristic cities, food prices in Rome can vary considerably and a more expensive menu doesn’t always denote better quality. Italy is also renowned for its pastries and gelato, so don’t miss the chance to indulge in a heavenly scoop of pistachio or a sweet ricotta-filled cannoli during your time in Rome.

Shopping.

From leather shops to designer fashion brands and chic Italian ceramics, shopping in Rome offers the chance to add a stylish designer label to your wardrobe or return home with a pretty artisanal ware. The city’s most famous shopping street, Via del Corso, lies at the heart of Rome’s historic center, offering many familiar fashion and beauty brands in one convenient location. If something more uniquely Roman appeals, cast your net a little wider and venture to the trendy neighborhood of Monti or Campo de’Fiori Square, south of Piazza Navona. In both places you’ll find smaller, independent retailers offering a mix of own-brand, vintage and antique finds. 

Beyond Rome.

If you decide to forgo the journey to Rome and remain in Civitavecchia, you’ll discover a city with its own rich historic tapestry to unravel. Dating back to the 2nd century, Civitavecchia’s medieval center, 16th century Fort Michelangelo, and Roman age port and Baths, and are just the start of the archaeological treasures you’ll discover in this scenic Italian port call. The town’s San Lorenzo Market, selling fresh produce including fruit, vegetables and fish, makes for a lively lunchtime visit. The area surrounding the market offers many characterful shops, pizzerias and bars, perfect for a spot of people watching while you sip an Aperol Spritz between exploring.

Barcelona port guide.

Providing the perfect way to soak up the many sights and sounds of Barcelona life, a cruise will allow you to explore the city’s abundance of exciting attractions, exquisite examples of Spanish cuisine including mouth-watering tapas, and many historic landmarks. And, as the sun goes down, the city truly comes alive, with an array of restaurants, bars, clubs and entertainment venues.

Here’s our guide to everything you need to know about this magnificent city. 

Top landmarks and sights in Barcelona.

Barcelona is bursting with tourist attractions, museums, iconic landmarks, parks, and other attractions. It’s safe to say there’s plenty to do and see.  

Whether you spend your days exploring Sagrada Familia, the holy cathedral designed by Antoni Gaudí and Barcelona’s number one attraction, visit the iconic FC Barcelona Camp Nou stadium, or soak up the bustling streets of Las Ramblas, you’re sure to leave with fond memories. 

Other top sights include Parc de Montjuïc and the Magic Fountain, Palau de la Música Catalana, and the Boqueria Market. And, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in some contemporary art and street art, make sure that you head to The MACBA, Barcelona’s cutting-edge contemporary art museum. This museum is one of the most well-regarded institutions of its kind in the whole of Europe

Barcelona culture and history.

Barcelona is a fascinating place. The city’s culture stems from 2000 years of history, which can still be seen throughout the city today. Barcelona is also a bilingual city where Catalan and Spanish are both official languages and widely spoken. 

Natives are incredibly proud of their regional identity, culture and language, so you can expect to enjoy a fascinating insight into the city’s history and traditions. The winding streets, busy event calendar, and the beautiful buildings enchant visitors from all corners of the world. And, when it comes to music and festivals, there’s always something to celebrate in Barcelona, with processions, parades, festivals and parties being part and parcel of everyday life in the city. 

As well as traditional street parties, there’s also a plethora of famous rock and dance festivals that take place every year, including Sonar Festival, Primavera Sound and Cruilla.

Eating and drinking in Barcelona.

Barcelona’s cruise port is home to some incredible restaurants and eateries where you can sample traditional Spanish dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking to tuck into your favorite tapas on a stunning sun-drenched terrace, sample a traditional Spanish menu in beautiful surroundings, or people-watch in the sunshine with a refreshing drink, there’s a huge choice of eateries, many of which are no more than an 11-minute walk from the port. You will also find lots of cafes selling a delicious collection of ice cream – perfect for cooling down after a busy day exploring. 

Shopping in Barcelona. 

Barcelona is a fantastic shopping destination. In the city’s shopping streets, you’ll find everything from designer shops and boutiques, to popular high street shops, such as Mango and Zara. The Portal de l’Àngel, just off Placa de Catalunya, is where you will find shops selling exclusive brands, or head to Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol for designer boutiques and handicraft shops. And if you’re looking for well-known designer brands such as Gianni Versace and Gucci, make sure you visit Avinguda Diagonal.

La Ramla is the place to be if you’re on the hunt for souvenirs, bookshops, flower stalls and cowboy boots. Corbeto's Boots, is a western shop with more than 60 years of history, and is renowned for its fabulous cowboy boots and western accessories. Of course, like any Spanish city, the markets in Barcelona are the most authentic way to go shopping, including Boqueria Market.

Transport in Barcelona. 

Barcelona has some fantastic transport links, making it easy to travel in and around the city, as well to and from Barcelona Port. 

Reliable transport links in the area include the Metro, FGC and Tram, which all provide a quick and easy way to explore the city. There’s also a fleet of over 1,000 fully adapted buses that serve all areas of Barcelona, as well as plenty of taxis should you need one. 

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add a new and exciting dimension to your Barcelona travels, you can always choose to hop on a bike and discover the city this way.

Barcelona port facilities.

Barcelona is one of Europe’s leading tourist destinations for both local and international visitors. As a result, the port is perfectly equipped to accommodate the needs of the city’s many visitors, all year round. 

Positioned to service cruise traffic for both Barcelona and the region of Catalonia, the port operates five public cruise terminals and has increased cruise passenger traffic to become the largest cruise port in Europe. It’s also the fourth largest in the world! 

The port’s facilities include well-equipped terminals, security forces and the very best health and safety processes. 

Top tips for visiting Barcelona. 

Before any trip to Barcelona, remember to familiarize yourself with the things that you should and shouldn’t be doing in the area. Here are just some of them:

• Be sensitive to the politics of both Barcelona and Catalina
  
• Book your La Sagrada Familia ticket before your trip
• Use the multi-day metro cards to save on transport
• Watch your purse – although Barcelona is a safe city, the area is notorious for pickpockets
• The Picasso Museum and the Barcelona City History Museum are both free on Sunday afternoons and evenings

The best time to visit Barcelona is definitely during the summer months.