Barcelona, Spain: the avant-garde metropolis

A stroll around the city to admire its wealth of modernist architecture is a must on any trip to Barcelona. Playful and strange, Antoni Gaudí’s creations in particular, like the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, La Pedrera and Casa Batlló, are not to be missed. Picasso was almost as well-known for his anguished love affairs as for his art. Absorb some of that passion by touring the city of his youth as he might have experienced it. Visit number 3 C/Mercè, where his family lived, before heading to Els 4 Gats, where artists like himself and Dalí discussed their craft. Finally, check out the Museu Picasso itself.

In 1870 the Torre de les Aigües provided water to some of the first houses in the Eixample district. Today it’s been converted into a swimming pool and water park that kids and adults alike adore, especially in the hot summer months! When the little ones have had enough of sightseeing and need to burn off some energy, head to the Bosc Urbà (or Urban Jungle). With more than 50 attractions at various levels for adults and children, including zip lines, rope swings, bungee jumping and log rolls, it’s fun for the whole family.

No matter how diverse their tastes, everyone in your group is sure to love Barri Gòtic, Barcelona’s Gothic old town. Explore maze-like alleyways, hidden courtyards and atmospheric cafés, shops and restaurants in this throwback to medieval and Roman times.