The cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, Barcelona is famous for its incredible art and architecture – with a gorgeous beach thrown in too. Undoubtedly one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe, Barcelona boasts a pleasant Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunny days for exploring. What’s most impressive is how the city is an eclectic blend of old meets new, with modern spectacles such as the sparkling W Hotel sharing the skyline with ancient medieval architecture – the famous La Sagrada Familia, to name a prominent landmark. With everything from chic boutiques and beaches to sophisticated port harbours and iconic parks, this atmospheric city has it all.
When is the best time to cruise from Barcelona?
The best time to depart on a cruise from Barcelona is during the spring, summer or fall season between April-November – especially if you’re cruising the Mediterranean, as this is when you’ll experience the best weather. However, some cruise lines also offer winter cruises to the Canary Islands, which boasts balmy temperatures all-year-round.
Which cruise lines sail from Barcelona?
Pretty much every cruise line sails from Barcelona, from mainstream brands such as Virgin Voyages, MSC, NCL, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises to luxury cruise lines such as Silversea and Oceania. Due to the port being so well equipped, many large ships also homeport in Barcelona thanks in part to the capacity of the ports in the Western Med.
Where do cruises from Barcelona go to?
Barcelona’s central location on the Mediterranean Sea makes it easy to cruise neighbouring ports, sometimes even as far as the exotic ports of the Canary and Balearic Islands. You can generally expect to hop on a cruise around the Western Med, Italy & Malta from Barcelona, although there are longer cruises available that may visit the Eastern Med and Greek Isles.
What should you do whilst you’re in Barcelona?
Barcelona’s to-do list is plentiful; whether you’re on a romantic city break or soaking up some beach and city action with the whole family – you won’t run out of things to do.
History buff or not, you must put time aside to marvel over the city’s spectacular architecture, with iconic landmarks including La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló and the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site. Similarly, a wander around the awe-inspiring Park Güell is a must – where you’ll find Barcelona’s famous mosaic lizard, designed by the artist Antoni Gaudí.
Head to la Rambla, Barcelona’s most famous pedestrianised boulevard stretches for almost a mile and boasts a string of charming gelaterias, coffee shops, florists, street vendors, shops, restaurants and bars along the way. Those that prefer a slower-paced stroll can head to Parc de la Ciutadella, with large green spaces to lounge on, a series of architectural structures to admire, and even a zoo!
Of course, you can’t visit this thriving city without visiting its major draw – Barceloneta beach! This popular stretch welcomes a throng of sun-seekers to its golden sandy stretch, with inviting azure waters teeming with adventure-worthy watersports. It’s loud, it’s chaotic, but it’s a must while you’re in the city.
Paramount Cruises Top Tips
Check out some of the team’s top tips from our previous trips. Find out where to eat, where to drink and what to do in Barcelona in the map below:
Extend your stay?
It’s difficult to pack all there is to see and do in this atmospheric city into one or two days, which is why many choose to extend their stay before they flock to the port. Add a couple of extra nights in Barcelona and discover its charm, or why not hop on a high-speed train and explore Madrid or Valencia while you’re there?
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