Spain has one of the most extensive domestic flight networks in Europe, connecting its major cities, remote islands and coastal regions efficiently. Whilst high-speed trains dominate many popular routes, flying remains the fastest option for longer distances – particularly between mainland Spain and the Balearic or Canary Islands. Domestic flights …
Spain’s railway network is one of the most efficient, comfortable and extensive in Europe, offering an excellent way to explore the country. Whether travelling at high speed between major cities or taking a scenic regional train through picturesque landscapes, the Spanish rail system provides a reliable alternative to road travel. …
The La Mercè Festival in Barcelona is the Catalan capital’s annual city festival and its most significant celebration. Officially designated as a city holiday in 1871, La Mercè commemorates the Roman Catholic feast of Our Lady of Mercy (‘La Mare de Déu de la Mercè’). While the feast day itself …
The Festa de la Fil·loxera, or Phylloxera Festival, is an annual celebration held in Sant Sadurní d’Anoia (Catalonia). This distinctive event commemorates a critical juncture in the region’s viticultural history: the phylloxera plague that devastated European vineyards in the late 19th century. Initiated in 1982, the festival serves as both …
The practice of building human towers, known as ‘castells’, represents a defining cultural tradition in Catalonia. This remarkable feat of physical endurance, cooperation and communal identity has become a symbol of Catalan heritage. Recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Castellers continue to captivate onlookers with their …
Tarragona is a charming Mediterranean port city located 100km south-west of Barcelona on the coast of Catalonia. Originally established as Tarraco by the Romans in the 3rd century BCE, Tarragona served as a key administrative and commercial hub. Today the city’s ancient Roman archaeological complex is recognised as a UNESCO …
The Sagrada Familia is one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of architect Antoni Gaudí. As one of the most visited monuments in Spain, millions of people flock to see this extraordinary basilica each year. To avoid long queues and ensure a smooth visit, it’s highly recommended to …
There are so many things to do in Barcelona that you’ll struggle to visit them all during a short city break. The highlight is the magnificent Sagrada Familia Cathedral but there are plenty more stunning buildings designed by Antoni Gaudí including La Pedrera (also known as Casa Milà), Casa Batlló …
The Barcelona Tourist Tax was first introduced in 2012, with the stated purpose of generating revenue to help mitigate the impacts of mass tourism on the city’s infrastructure, public services and sustainability. The tax is officially known as the “Tourist Stay Tax” (Catalan: Impost sobre les estades en establiments turístics). …