It is fundamental that Barcelona boasts the necessary resources and amenities to cater to the ongoing influx of conference attendees. Indeed, the city is well-equipped to handle such demands, not only through its plethora of hotels and dining options, but also its wide array of leisure and cultural activities. Once name badges have been returned and business discussions have concluded, Catalonia’s dynamic capital city offers an abundance of enriching experiences.
Among its reputable accommodations is the Gallery Hotel, ideally situated next to Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona’s main thoroughfares. During the summer months, its rooftop bar and pool named ‘The Top’ is a must-visit, while the on-site gym and sauna are valuable benefits for visits during the cooler seasons.
Along the Passeig de Gràcia thoroughfare is Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, two awe-inspiring creations by famed architect Antoni Gaudí. Casa Batlló, with its wavy exteriors, dragon scale-like tiles, and bone-shaped pillars, is a distinctive gem among the stretch of architectural wonders on the street.
Nearby resides the Bagués Masriera Jewellery store, established in 1839, known globally for its stunning Art Nouveau pieces and often takes custom orders from international clients. A short distance away is the premium clothing shop, Santa Eulalia, part of the IMG international menswear conglomerate. Membership to this group is exclusive to high-end multi-brand family-owned stores, restricted to one from each country. Maintaining a charming blend of traditional and contemporary values, Santa Eulalia features one of the remaining tailoring workshops in Spain.
Recently launched in Barcelona is the Moco museum that adds to the city’s impressive roster of culturally significant sites. Displaying the works of contemporary artists like Damien Hirst and David LeChapelle alongside “modern masters” like Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, furthermore, several creations by Banksy grace its walls.
A brief walk from Moco will lead you to the Port, a hub for superyachts and the home to Barcelona Aquarium. The aquarium is a veritable showcase of sea life, with a wide array of species, including sharks, stingrays and endearing clown fish, swimming overhead and around visitors.
Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find Barcelonetta, a man-made beach that attracts a diverse crowd. Whether it’s beach bars and restaurants or vendors selling sarongs, beverages, and massages, there’s always something going on.
Undeniably, Sagrada Família, the masterpiece of Gaudí and a Unesco World Heritage Site, is Barcelona’s crowning glory. This monument, with around three million visitors annually, has been under construction for over 130 years and is expected to be completed by 2026.
The city’s ancient Barcelona Cathedral, which dates back to the 14th century and stands proudly in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, should not be mistaken for the Sagrada Família. This historic location serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona.
Las Ramblas, the city’s most prominent street, is a pedestrian-friendly area thriving with shopping from high-street fashion to curios. This vibrant spot is adorned with buskers and artists who entertain both locals and tourists.
When it comes to gastronomy, El Quim located in La Boqueria, the city’s most cherished market, offers a delightful menu. Pause for a coffee at the Mauri Bakery on Rambla de Catalunya and enjoy the jovial atmosphere at El Xampanyet and Bar del Pla, where tapas and drinks are served. Eating lunch at Mirablau on Avenida del Tibidabo treats guests to a breath-taking citywide view.
The Sintonia restaurant at Gallery Hotel reimagines traditional tapas with a creative twist. The menu offers smaller versions of a la carte dishes, such as pork belly, gazpacho, oysters, and black rice. Satiating your sweet tooth should start and end with their unique croissants filled with ice cream.
Lastly, cap off your day at The Top, giving you a night view of the beautifully illuminated city, and then retire to one of the hotel’s roomy bedrooms.
Both Ryanair and Aer Lingus operate daily flights to Barcelona.