Barcelona
LA MERCE FESTIVAL
La Mercè is one of the biggest festival events in Barcelona’s calendar. It’s the time when all the neighbourhoods barrios come together to celebrate as a city. The event is held for around five days in September with the main celebration on September 24th and it celebrates the Verge de la Mercè, or the Virgin of Mercy, one of Barcelona’s two patron saints.
While the festival’s origins lie in religion, it has very little to do with that today, and is more a celebration of Barcelona itself.
La Mercè is a huge citywide event, which is essentially made up of lots of different festivals all taking place at the same time. More information regarding the main events and program can be found here.
EXPLORE MODERNIST BARCELONA
Barcelona’s urban landscape is abundant in Modernisme creations where these architectural gems often stand side by side. You simply need to walk around the city to understand just how important this cultural movement was to its inhabitants, and how Modernisme shaped Barcelona into the city that we know and love today.
Some of our faves: Sagrada familia, Park Guell, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera
GOTHIC QUARTER
The Barri Gòtic is considered the historic center of the old city of Barcelona. Like many other places, the Gothic Quarter is a place with a story to tell in every corner you visit.
Barcelona’s reputation as a culinary hotspot is well-deserved thanks to its abundant fresh food markets and gourmet restaurants.
Don't miss out on what the city has to offer and go tapas in el Borne or get some nice paella in the fishermen's neighbourhood of Barceloneta. Go to any of the local markets and enjoy some of the best food stalls at la Boquería, Ninot, Sant Antoni. There is plenty of choice and you would hardly go wrong!
TIPS: Avoid the touristic spots near la Rambla; Go for a vermouth; Try the menú del día!