Barcelona Highlights
HALF DAY TOUR
What if you don’t have enough time to enjoy Barcelona? Don’t worry! If you have only half a day to go around Barcelona, we’ve got you covered! We’ve put together several half-day tour packages so you can visit the absolutely not-to-be-missed cultural and historic spots in the city. Just choose the package that fits your needs, relax, and we’ll take care of the rest
INCLUSIONS:
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Experienced and Friendly tour guide with commentary
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Private vehicle for your group
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Maximum of 4 hours
GAUDI AND THE BULL
Antoni Gaudi was the foremost architect during the Catalan Modernist era from 1878 to around 1910. He was immensely creative in an unconventional but brilliant way. His works are now some of the most famous and visited attractions in Barcelona. On this tour, we will visit the most iconic of Gaudi’s works, combined with learning about an integral part of Spanish culture–Bullfighting.
You will have a private tour of the exterior facades of:
Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is the most famous Barcelona landmark and the jewel of Catalan Modernism. Designed by Antoni Gaudi, this awe-inspiring church is rich in symbolism and it's not yet finished! Construction began in 1882, and it’s still ongoing. When will it be completed, and why is it taking so long? Learn the answers and more during the tour!
La Monumental Bullfighting Arena
If you are intrigued by bullfighting and are an architecture buff, then you will enjoy your visit to La Monumental. This is the largest bullfighting ring in Barcelona and the last active one in Catalonia. The last bullfight took place in 2011 when the Parliament of Catalonia banned bullfighting. When we get there, be sure to admire the ornate facade designed in Mudéjar (Moors) and Byzantine style. If you look closer, you will see thousands of colorful tiles in an intricate design making La Monumental picturesque.
Plaça d’Espanya
Plaça d’Espanya is one of Barcelona’s biggest and most important squares. The elegant monumental fountain in the center of the plaza was designed by Modernist architect Josep Maria Jujol. Built for the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition, the plaza now serves as a gateway to popular Barcelona attractions like the National Palace, Montjuïc, and Arenas de Barcelona.
GAUDI AND THE MUDEJAR ART
Antoni Gaudi was the foremost architect during the Catalan Modernist era from 1878 to around 1910. He was immensely creative in an unconventional but brilliant way. His works are now some of the most famous and visited attractions in Barcelona. On this tour, we will visit the greatest work of Gaudi. You will then get the opportunity to contrast Gaudi’s Modernist design style with the Mudéjar (Moorish) style as exemplified by La Monumental and the Arc de Triomf.
You will have a private tour of the exterior facades of:
Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is the most famous Barcelona landmark and the jewel of Catalan Modernism. Designed by Antoni Gaudi, this awe-inspiring church is rich in symbolism and it's not yet finished! Construction began in 1882, and it’s still ongoing. When will it be completed, and why is it taking so long? Learn the answers and more during the tour!
La Monumental Bullfighting Arena
If you are intrigued by bullfighting and are an architecture buff, then you will enjoy your visit to La Monumental. This is the largest bullfighting ring in Barcelona and the last active one in Catalonia. The last bullfight took place in 2011 when the Parliament of Catalonia banned bullfighting. When we get there, be sure to admire the ornate facade designed in Mudéjar (Moors) and Byzantine style. If you look closer, you will see thousands of colorful tiles in an intricate design making La Monumental picturesque.
The Arc de Triomf
The Arc de Triomf was the entrance to the 1888 Universal Exposition. It is a unique and beautiful Barcelona landmark built of red bricks in the Moorish or Mudéjar style. It honors the artistic, scientific, and economic progress of the Catalan people.
GAUDI AND THE SANTA EULALIA
Antoni Gaudi was the foremost architect during the Catalan Modernist era from 1878 to around 1910. He was immensely creative in an unconventional but brilliant way. His works are now some of the most famous and visited attractions in Barcelona. We shall be visiting two unique and beautiful residences that Gaudi designed: Casa Mila and Casa Batlló, both located in the trendy Eixample district. Then, we will head on over to Barcelona Cathedral, or La Seu as the locals call it, in the historic Gothic Quarter.
You will have a private tour of the exterior facades of:
Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia
This is a Gothic cathedral built in the 13th century. It is dedicated to the co-patron saint of Barcelona, Santa Eulalia. (The other patron saint is La Mercè or Our Lady of Mercy.) The crypt of St. Eulalia in the cathedral holds her remains. Like most Gothic cathedrals, the majestic edifice of Barcelona Cathedral features pointed archways and a wide range of gargoyles on the roof--160 to be exact! Look upwards and see if you can recognize which animals they are.
Casa Mila
Casa Mila is also known as La Pedrera, which means ‘stone quarry.' Don’t let the name fool you. Far from looking like a boring quarry, Casa Mila looks like a magnificent sculpture lifted from nature herself. Gaudi got his inspiration from nature in designing Casa Mila. You will hardly find any straight lines in it. Rather, you will notice wavy lines and sinuous forms.
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is a celebration of dreamy fantasy and function. A showcase of Catalan Modernism, Casa Batlló is the creation of architect Antoni Gaudi. Its beautiful design will remind you of a soothing underwater seascape. It is also nicknamed the house of the dragon. When you see it for yourself, you will see why.
MONTJUÏC ESSENTIALS
Antoni Gaudi was the foremost architect during the Catalan Modernist era from 1878 to around 1910. He was immensely creative in an unconventional but brilliant way. His works are now some of the most famous and visited attractions in Barcelona. We shall be visiting two unique and beautiful residences that Gaudi designed: Casa Mila and Casa Batlló, both located in the trendy Eixample district. Then, we will head on over to Barcelona Cathedral, or La Seu as the locals call it, in the historic Gothic Quarter.
You will have a private tour of the exterior facades of:
Montjuïc Castle
Montjuïc Castle is a fortress built in the year 1640 on top of Montjuïc hill. It is a witness to several of Barcelona’s historic moments. At 173 meters above sea level, you are sure to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city of Barcelona, the seaport, and the Mediterranean sea. While you’re up there, see if you can pick out La Sagrada Familia as you gaze out at the city.
Poble Espanyol
Poble Espanyol, or Spanish Village, is an open-air museum that showcases Spanish art and culture. Entering Poble Espanyol feels like visiting the whole of Spain. You will see replicas of traditional buildings--117 in total--from all over Spain. You will also enjoy traditional foods and witness craftsmen producing unique products like jewelry and leather goods.
The Barcelona Olympic Stadium
The Barcelona Olympic Stadium was the main setting for the 1992 Olympic games. Its history, though, goes farther back. It was built in 1927 for the 1929 International Exposition, with the possibility of hosting the 1936 Olympics in mind. But, the bid was awarded to Berlin. It wasn’t until after 56 years that the Olympics eventually came to Barcelona, and the stadium finally fulfilled its purpose. What an inspiring story for a stadium!