Barcelona Explorer

This glorious, cacophonous, rebellious city is one of the most enviable places to live on earth.

Gaudi's creations and the Catalan spirit have inspired Hemingway, Orwell, Picasso and Dali to capture Europe's most beguiling city.

The Barcelona Explorer is written by Catalans, Spaniards and expats who all live in the city and love to share its secrets and charms. Key features: General Info: history, geography, language, hotels and how to get about. Residents: from visas to vehicles and where to live, to where to send the kids to school or where to get a nose job. Exploring: the sights, attractions, parks and beaches, along with weekend breaks and trips out of town. Activities: sports and hobbies, from castelling to kayaking to cookery, along with gyms, spectator sports and spas. Shopping: where to buy anything, from botifarra to bitumen. Going Out: where to eat, drink and be merry.