#EuroAwayDays: Arsenal fans in for a treat in buzzing Barcelona

Incredibly it was only after the 1992 Summer Olympics that Barcelona really became one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations.

But given the great weather for much of the year, a wonderful four kilometre of beach, jaw-dropping architecture and so much more, it’s amazing tourists ever manage to haul themselves away.

So while Arsenal look to avoid a pasting against Messi and co, here’s what you should be looking out for…

Food

Paella, Tapas? Barcelona has it all covered at every turn.

Away from the central, tourist-trapping bars along Las Ramblas, Felice – just north of Avenue Diagonal – does excellent Mediterranean grub at local prices.

But if you don’t want to traipse too far from the hubbub of central Barca, then take a little detour off Las Ramblas into Irati.

With a wonderfully varied range of hot and cold dishes, you won’t be stuck to decide what to have. There are cheaper alternatives all round, but few offer such value for money.

Drink

Estrella? Or San Miguel? There’s so much more to Barcelona than what our supermarkets tell us.

Places like El Nus and Gata Mala do a great range of beers, but in Barca it’s just as hard to decide where to go as to which bar to fall in to.

A spot along the beach watching the tide come and go? Or one of the many bars around Parca Reial, find the right patch under the sun and the hours will fly by in this busy square off the main high street.

Nightlife

Barcelona has so many great nightclubs to choose from that you can’t ever go wrong.

The Marula Cafe is a real treat for music lovers, playing everything and anything from Garage to Jazz to Funk and Soul, while Nitsa will hand that electronic fix in a manner few clubs can match.

If it’s a quiet evening you seek away from the tourist ramble, then El Callejon is the place to go for a glass of rioja.

Hidden down one of the City’s historic alleyways near the Gothic Quarter, you won’t find reams of backpackers in this small back street bet, just great wine and fine food.

Culture

We can’t start anywhere else in this great city than Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia.

Otherwise known as the Gaudi Cathedral, construction began on Barcelona’s signature attraction in 1882, but has progressed slowly since Gaudi’s death in 1926. Now past the midway point, it is expected to be concluded to coincidence with the anniversary of Gaudi’s passing in 2026.

While most merely look in awe from the outside, it’s equally as stunning from within, while a trip up one of it’s many spires provides incredible views across the city.

Another of Gaudi’s World Heritage site works is Park Guell. A stunning, flowing natural land of mosaic designs and parklife, it provides a wonderful change from the busy city vibe, whilst providing endless opportunities to jazz up your Instagram.

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