AC Diplomatic

We travelled from the airport by bus which went straight to Placa de Catalunya- 3.50 euros one way.
Our hotel (AC Diplomatic) was in an excellent location in Pau 122 Claris near Placa de Catalunya. We were in walking distance to everything.
The hotel was very good. The room was clean, modern and bright. Staff were friendly.
We went in October and it was about 65 degrees. However, don’t forget an umbrella as it did rain lightly one day.
The tourist office is in Placa de Catalunya. Here, you can buy a tourist bus ticket which is excellent value. You can travel on both the north and south routes. The bus stops at loads of places of interest. You can jump off at any stop and the next bus comes in 15 minutes.
We visited many places e.g. Sagradia Familia (Gaudi’s finest work), Park Guell, Nou Camp (Barcelona’s famous football stadium), Port Vell, Port Olympic. Barcelona also has many beaches if you fancy some sunbathing!
On foot we walked down La Rambla (takes about 30 minutes) to the pier. You will see birds, flowers etc . Don’t forget to go to La Boqueria- the indoor market in the right hand side.
If you walk down the streets to the left of La Rambla you come to the Barric Gothic- the old quarter. The best place to start a tour of the old quarter is the cathedral. There are some lovely squares in the old quarter e.g. Placa Sant Jaume, Placa Del Rei.
A visit to Barcelona needs to include a visit to the Picasso Museum in Carrer de Montcada (expect a queue).
Two very impressive places which demonstrate Gaudi’s excellent work are the Casa Batllo and La Pedrera on Passeig de Gracia.
Shopping is great in Barcelona. There are a lot of shops in Passeig de Gracia e.g. Zara, Mango and the El Corte Ingles (big department store).
Food is great in Barcelona. Tapas are available everywhere. There are many restaurants around Passeig de Gracia and La Rambla. Our favourite was just off Passeig de Gracia and was called 'Totem'. One thing which shocked me in the restaurants is that there are no non smoking areas and a lot of people smoke in Barcelona.
Everyone speaks English in the city.
I would definitely recommend a visit to Barcelona. It has everything and you will definitely have a good time.