Barcelona in a couple of weeks

[seven]

I am thinking of taking my wife and daughter [24] to Barcelona in a couple of weeks. I have been there once - about 25 years ago - and, frankly, remember nothing, apart from Gaudi! We would fly from south of Birmingham and stay for 3/4 nights. My idea is to take a flight and book accommodation separately but i realise that sometimes 'all in one' is cheaper, I have done all the usual searches but would welcome input from the best travel advice forum [here!!] on great places to stay and what to do. I'm not going to say money is no object but we will not be staying long.
Many thanks in advance.

 

[Ted]

Use the bus turiste (i think it is called). Three routes around the city and you can get on and off wherever you want. You will see some amazing architecture, and on the top deck look into the expensive apartments. Go to Las Ramblas (of course) - watch your wallet Visit the gothic cathedral as well as the Gaudi one Visit port veille (sp?) Just walk around Visit the olympic village.
See all the Gaudi architecture - it really is amazing. Barcelona is the best city I have ever visited - you just won't tire of it.

 

[baxlin]

X2 for the tourist buses, there's also the cable car over the harbour. I'm not particularly a footie fan, but I really enjoyed a tour round the Nou Camp (think that's how it's spelt, it's Barcelona FC stadium anyway)

Just one word of warning, Barcelona is reputed to be the pickpocket/handbag grabbing/steaming capital of the world. Particularly in the parks and on the underground, where we've seen blokes "hunting" in packs.

But enjoy, it's a beautiful city, we love it.

 

[renault12ts]

Tibidabo.

 

[jaymanek]

Hiring bikes and riding everywhere is great fun if you like cycling...

 

[Colin_b]

I'd recommend the Hotel H10 Raco del Pi. Just off La Rambla and very central.
Excellent value and good accommodation.

Just watch out for the frequent strikes and protests which seem to be occurring daily at the moment.

 

[Markjames]

I'd recommend the Hotel H10 Raco del Pi. Just off La Rambla and very central.
Excellent value and good accommodation.

Just watch out for the frequent strikes and protests which seem to be occurring daily at the moment.

I also stayed in a hotel H10 on the main road going left to right at top of law rambla, was about 100 yards down on left, would definitely recommend it.

 

[Bobby Dazzler]

Here are two recommendations which will make your daughter think her Dad is pretty cool after all, but won't make you or your wife feel uncomfortable.

When I'm in Barcelona I stay at Melia Sky which is a great hotel, feels special, and remarkably cool. It has DJ decks in the open plan reception, bar, restaurant and lounge. Great views from a dramatic building too.

Meliá Barcelona Sky - Hotel in Barcelona - SPAIN

One of my all-time favourite restaurants is in Barcelona. The quality of the food is outstanding, and more brownie points from your daughter because this place is super cool. Cocktails on the roof top terrace, DJ in the cellar, it's got it all. I really cannot recommend this restaurant highly enough - it's perfect!

Bocagrande

There are plenty of bars along the beach but one in particular is a good blend of relaxed and cool. An Estrella shandy at sundown with a plate of nachos ...heaven! I'll have to look up the name as I can't think for the life of me now.

 

[Meldrew2]

If you fancy a bit of relaxation, it's not too far to Salou - a nice enough resort - lovely promenade and beach. Also the theme park Port Aventura.

I guess it's down to what kind of holiday you are looking for.

Keep an eye out for pickpockets - Barcelona is full of them - and above all, have a nice time!

 

[Scott_F]

Barcelona is indeed the pick-pocket capital of Europe and after dark even main streets are blighted my marauding groups of illegal immigrant prostitutes from Africa who supplement their income by mobbing men leaving bars. Whilst the rest distract the victim one of them dips into his pocket.

I was amazed by how many of these locusts there were. I was with a group of guys but with a partner / daughter present I'm not sure I'd feel comfortable walking around after dark. There were police in evidence but typically they showed no interest in dealing with the widespread prostitution / thieving problem.

I wouldn't bother with the "beach" either. It's an artificial one created for the 1992 Olympics and it looks it. And the sea there is absolutely filthy.

 

[seven]

Well thanks for all the input guys.
I have just booked 4 nights at the Ofelias Hotel from 18-22 of this month. This was through British Airways citybreaks - actually the first time I have ever used them.
The cost was £870 for return scheduled flights from LHR to BCN for three adults and two rooms at the Ofelias Hotel including breakfast.
I will do a little [non!] picture heavy write up on our return.
Again, many thanks.

 

[Ten elena]

Enjoy your trip! I am sure you'll love it - it's an amazing city!

The beach is fab there, so do plan some chill time by the sea as well. Gaudi's park is pretty awesome and it's worth to ride the cable car up the Montjuic hill. Also, there is a fountain show by Montjuic, on Thursday to Sunday nights. Sagrada Familia is of course a must see and generally the old town is lovely!

You will find public transport excellent, I got around on the tube there and it was great!

 

[Bobby Dazzler]

Well thanks for all the input guys.
I have just booked 4 nights at the Ofelias Hotel from 18-22 of this month. This was through British Airways citybreaks - actually the first time I have ever used them.
The cost was £870 for return scheduled flights from LHR to BCN for three adults and two rooms at the Ofelias Hotel including breakfast.
I will do a little [non!] picture heavy write up on our return.
Again, many thanks.

Just had a quick look at the website and it looks like a nice hotel - outstanding value.

Do try Bocagrande (link above) - I can't get their beef filet out of my head since I posted the link the other day