Day 1: Barcelona Sightseeing

The double-decker hop on hop off bus is the most convenient way to discover the Barcelona highlights. You can hop on and off as many times as you like at any of the 42 stops and get a bird's eye view of the most interesting and attractive sights of the city. For a guided tour with an English and Spanish speaking guide and including lunch book the classic Barcelona in One Day Tour. If you're planning to hit up lots of sites, buy the Barcelona Card for discounts and free offers, plus it includes free travel on public transport.

If you're looking for something different, book a bike tour, or scooter tour and see the sights on one of these alternative modes of transportation.

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Day 2: Gaudi & Picasso

It's safe to say that Antoni Gaudi's masterpiece of Modernista architecture is a must-see on any first visit to Barcelona. El Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia (Expiatory Temple of the Holy Family) is a truly awesome monument that single-handedly encapsulates Catalonia's historical urge to be that little bit different. The Museu Gaudi (Gaudi Museum), located in the crypt, is well worth a visit. Spend an afternoon and take in a range of Gaudi's masterpieces dotted throughout Barcelona.

The Picasso Museum, Barcelona's most frequented museum, is housed in a fine medieval palace on the narrow Carrer de Montcada between La Rambla and the Parc de la Ciutadella. Representing the only major collection of Picasso's work in his native country, the main emphasis is on the artist's formative years. While this means none of his best-known works are on display, the collection nevertheless provides a fascinating insight into how the paintings of a young boy developed into the major works of later years.

And of course, another top Barcelona experience is to just wander La Rambla, the main street where the whole town turns out to promenade. Or head up to the Gracia district for bars and restaurants galore and see how Barcelona's locals unwind.

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Day 3: Day Trips from Barcelona

Visiting Montserrat, rising to 4,051 feet (1,235 meters), is an easy day trip from Barcelona. The Royal Basilica of Montserrat has been one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Spain for hundreds of years. Choose from our selection of half-day and full-day tours.

If you've time, a visit to the lovely seaside town of Sitges, 30km south of Barcelona makes a great day trip. For a more active adventure head to the Pyrenees. Enjoy a wide range of activities, from horse riding and walking, to archery and boating. Wear warm clothes and good walking shoes. Or if the beach is more your scene, spend a day exploring the Costa Brava exploring the small coves, splendid beaches and quaint fishing villages.

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Best Bar: Zsa Zsa

This bar attracts mainly a sophisticated business crowd who wish for an evening of cocktails and conversation - a trademark feature is the constantly changing lighting.

Best Dance Club: La Boîte

In this club, you will find either soul, funk, or old Motown hits ringing through the walls. The bar is a great social place to meet people. You are likely to find live blues, rock, or disco after 1:30am.

Best Live Music: Sutton

Classy nightspot draws a lively crowd to see the live shows. Also a great place to dance and mingle with regulars and travelers. Good drink selection, as well.

Barcelona Center

This excellent eight-room guesthouse is one of the better central options in Barcelona. It's in the heart of town but just far enough removed from the crowds to ensure a good night's sleep.

Hotel Principal

This hotel, in a rather quiet side street of El Raval, has pleasant, functional rooms. The location is a bonus as it is an easy stroll to La Rambla. When you've had enough of pounding the pavement, you can even take time out to sunbathe on the roof.

Hotel Condes de Barcelona

There must be few other hotels in a major European city where you can get such quality for this price. Grand staircases, elegant archways and quiet alcoves dominate the public spaces, but modern amenities such as Wi-Fi access and a well-equipped rooftop gym ensure thoroughly contemporary comfort.