1. Overview of Barcelona
Discover why Barcelona is a top honeymoon destination in Europe, attracting lovers of art, architecture, and delicious cuisine.
2. Explore the Art & History
Learn about the rich history of Barcelona, from its Gothic Quarter to the iconic museums dedicated to renowned artists.
3. Architectural Wonders
Admire Antoni Gaudí’s unique architectural contributions that define Barcelona’s skyline.
4. Culinary Delights
Savor the vibrant tapas scene and local specialties alongside the picturesque waterfront.
5. Nature and Culture
Experience the beauty of Montjuïc and its cultural institutions that contribute to Barcelona’s charm.
6. Shopping Experiences
Find the best shopping spots for unique souvenirs and local fashion treasures.
7. Romantic Hotels
Discover luxurious and romantic accommodations that cater to honeymoon couples in Barcelona.
8. Safety in Barcelona
Understand the safety tips for travelers visiting this bustling city.
Along with London, Paris, and Rome, cosmopolitan Barcelona has emerged as one of Europe’s must-see cities for honeymoon couples and other romantics. To many, Barcelona on the Mediterranean is Spain’s top city. With its famous Las Ramblas street, its Gaudí architecture, and numerous art galleries, the Catalan capital draws lovers of art and architecture, food and music, modernism, and the sea. In fact, Barcelona has also become a popular cruise port.
Discover the Art & History of Barcelona
Barcelona’s history has long been part of its appeal. Its Gothic Quarter, Europe’s best-preserved medieval area, dates back to 27 B.C. and the reign of the Roman emperor Augustus.
The preserved historic center houses thirteenth-century Barcelona Cathedral and the royal palace where Columbus had his initial audience with King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. The area’s civil and cultural institutions include the Picasso Museum. Joan Miró and Salvador Dali, born in Catalonia, also reflect the passion, creativity, and intellect of the Catalan spirit.
Admire Barcelona’s Architecture
Yet it is the bold Art Nouveau works by the native son Antoni Gaudí that give the city its inimitable profile. From the neo-Gothic Palau Güell on Las Ramblas, the city’s famous promenade, to the epic, sinuous, yet-unfinished Sagrada Familia that can be seen for miles, Gaudí’s artistry is synonymous with Barcelona.
Taste the Tapas
Honeymoon couples can savor twenty-first century Barcelona in tapas restaurants where cava—Catalonia’s sparkling wine—flows, and along the city’s exciting new waterfront. The city also boasts more than three dozen food markets, where the freshest produce feeds the city. The best-known is La Boqueria on Las Ramblas.
Head for Barcelona’s Hills
Montjuïc, one of Barcelona’s famous hills, has been transformed into a popular destination thanks to distinctive museums—including the National Museum of Catalan Art and Fundació Joan Miró—plus numerous galleries, nightclubs, an open-air theatre, parkland, and the stadium and sports facilities built for the 1992 Olympics. Visitors can even see Mies van der Rohe’s original Barcelona chair on display in a replica of the architect’s eponymous pavilion from the 1929 International Exhibition.
Shopping in Barcelona
Although there are many places for honeymoon couples to shop for antiques and vintage clothing in Barcelona, a favorite place is the El Corte Inglés department store, which is like the Macy’s of Spain. There’s something fascinating about browsing brand-new wares in another country. Depending on which location you shop, El Corte Inglés may also stock traditional Spanish embroidered shawls and elaborate hair ornaments so you’ll be finely turned out for a night of flamenco dancing.
Choose a Romantic Hotel in Barcelona
Sophisticated Barcelona welcomes honeymoon couples at outstanding hotels that include the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, the resort-like Gran Hotel La Florida, which first opened in 1925 and underwent a $42-million transformation a few years ago; the luxurious and modern Hotel Majestic in the best and most convenient part of the city, and Hotel Arts, a Ritz-Carlton property boasting panoramic views of the city and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea beyond.
Is Barcelona Safe?
It’s as safe as any big city in Europe. However, be wary around Las Ramblas and other areas popular with tourists as these places can attract pickpockets.
