The Essential Guide to Taking Travel Photos in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most photogenic cities in Europe with staggering Gothic architecture, vibrant street life, brightly-colored markets, and alluring Mediterranean light. Taking unique travel photos in Barcelona with preparation and photographic knowledge can elevate your images to the next level. Given the abundance of scenic spots in the city, capturing incredible photos may seem effortless. However, it took me years to train my eye and gain expertise that can help save you time and energy in your photography journey.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover insider tips from pro photographers to help elevate your skills for taking travel photos in Barcelona.

Planning Your Barcelona Photo Shoot Locations

The key to a successful Barcelona photo trip starts with planning where and when to shoot:

1. Look Up Photogenic Landmarks

Research Barcelona’s main architectural and landmark photography spots like La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and the Gothic Quarter. Studying images of these locations will spark ideas and reveal the best angles.

2. Dig Into Neighborhood Gems

Look beyond the main tourist sites to Barcelona's unique neighborhoods. Areas like Gràcia, Born and Poblenou have small curated plazas, street art and shops that tell the local story.

3. Study Lighting Conditions

Consider the changing daylight and colors in Barcelona across seasons and times of day. Early morning and late afternoon often have the most dramatic light.

4. Account for Weather and Events

Plan for how weather and events may alter your locations. A rainy day in Park Güell will have a very different vibe from a sunny one. Festivals like La Mercè also offer unique photo ops.

5. Mix Famous Sites with Local Life

Blend major landmarks with local culture by exploring offbeat areas like the Raval neighborhood. This allows capturing a true Barcelona experience.

By scouting locations thoughtfully, you’ll discover amazing photography spots away from the crowds.

Packing the Essential Photography Gear

Carrying lightweight photography gear while traveling is key:

1. DSLR or Mirrorless Camera

A DSLR or mirrorless camera allows full creative control and interchangeable lenses for quality images. Consider weather sealing if shooting outdoors extensively.

2. Wide Angle and Zoom Lenses

Pack a wide angle like 18-35mm to capture expansive city scenes along with a 70-200mm zoom to isolate architectural details.

3. Tripod or Monopod

A tripod or monopod keeps cameras steady, especially for low light shots. Look for a lightweight, collapsible option.

4. Remote Shutter Release

To avoid blurry shots, a remote shutter release allows triggering the camera without touching it. Essential for long exposures.

5. Spare Batteries and Storage Cards

Carry extra charged batteries and high capacity memory cards to shoot all day without worrying about missing a shot.

The right minimalist kit tailored to your style will let you travel light while having full shooting flexibility.

Tips for Photographing Top Barcelona Landmarks

Barcelona’s iconic landmarks from La Sagrada Familia to Casa Milà demand unique photographic approaches to capture their grandeur:

1. Shoot La Sagrada Familia Exteriors at Golden Hour

The dizzying exterior of the UNESCO-listed basilica comes alive during the warm light at sunrise or sunset. Capture its texture from multiple angles.

2. Compose Wide Shots of Park Güell

Use a wide lens to emphasize the sprawling scale of Park Güell’s architecture along with the city views beyond. Position yourself on higher ground like the viaduct.

3. Photograph Casa Milà’s Organic Shapes

Highlights of the Gaudí masterpiece include the rippling stone facade and mushroom-esque chimneys. Move around for abstract geometric compositions.

4. Seek Reflections Along Montjuïc Magic Fountain

The Magic Fountain's water acrobatics provide fantastic reflections with Barcelona as a backdrop. Use slow shutter speeds to capture motion.

Each iconic site has sweet spots for composition and lighting. Visualize your desired photos before visiting to maximize your time there.

Getting Creative With Barcelona Architecture and Street Photography

Beyond the main sights, Barcelona’s streets are filled with captivating photographic possibilities:

1. Photograph La Rambla Eclectic Street Life

Capture a mix of street performers, flower stalls and architectural details along the storied La Rambla promenade. Convey both bustle and beauty.

2. Compose Surreal Architecture in Park Güell

The curving architecture along with colorful mosaics make for striking photos. Convert to black and white or boost color saturation to add an otherworldly effect.

3. Capture Quirky Barcelona Street Art

Barcelona’s street art scene provides endless opportunities for eye-catching photographs. Capture wall murals in full along with details.

4. Frame Intriguing Street Photography Moments

Keep your eyes open for candid moments like an abuelita hanging laundry or children playing soccer. Capture authentic local life.

Look for unique ways to portray familiar Barcelona scenes. Push your creativity by playing with lighting, angles, colors and composition.

Essential Techniques for Better Barcelona Travel Photos

Equipped with versatile photography skills, you can transform Barcelona’s sights into spectacular images:

1. Master Exposure and Focus

Learn exposure triangle fundamentals of aperture, shutter speed and ISO and techniques like bracketing to optimize exposure. Use hyperfocal distance and manual focus for tack sharp architecture shots.

2. Shoot During Golden Hour

The soft, warm light around sunrise and sunset flatters almost any subject. Time your sessions around golden hour for magical photos in Barcelona.

3. Utilize Leading Lines and Symmetry

Incorporate leading lines via roads or railings to draw the eye into images. Seek interesting symmetry among architectural patterns.

4. Learn Post-Processing Essentials

Post-processing allows polished images from improving tone, contrast and sharpness to cropping for better composition. Invest time into honing editing skills.

Elevate your images from tourist snaps to gallery-worthy shots with these essential photography skills.

Finding Inspiring Locations Off the Beaten Path

Venturing beyond Barcelona's core sights reveals underrated neighborhoods with stories to tell:

1. Discover Hidden Plaça del Sol

This overlooked square within Gràcia exudes vintage charm with its central fountain and surrounding cafés. A hidden gem.

2. Marvel at Castellers Human Towers

Castellers practice awe-inspiring human towers on weekends in local plazas. A unique Barcelona tradition.

3. Wander Through Former Factory Poblenou

Once an industrial hub, Poblenou is now filled with street art-adorned abandoned factories mixed among new developments.

4. Find Whimsical Pieces at Gaudi House Museum

Located in Park Güell, this museum provides a peek into the quirky interior designs of the famous architect.

Getting lost in charming local neighborhoods invariably leads to serendipitous photo ops away from main tourist zones.

Time of Day and Seasons for Great Barcelona Photos

Barcelona’s appearance transforms based on time of day and seasonal changes:

1. Capture Cool Tones on an Overcast Winter Day

The soft diffuse light on a cloudy day is perfect for evenly lit architectural shots. Post-process for moody, monochromatic streetscapes.

2. Photograph La Mercè Festival Street Performers

The festive September celebration fills the streets with musicians and creatives. Capture the electric energy.

3. Shoot at Golden Hours in Spring and Fall

The most comfortable seasons in Barcelona also offer ideal golden hour light to photograph plazas and parks.

4. Seek Out Summer Street Life

Locals flock to Barcelona beaches during summer. Photograph the lively scene along the seaside Barceloneta neighborhood.

Embrace Barcelona's unique ambiance during different seasons and times of day. Let the quality of light guide your photography outings.

Composing Better Travel Photos in Barcelona

Applying photographic principles immediately levels up your Barcelona pictures:

1. Frame Your Subject

Use archways, doors or foliage to frame your main subject in a contextual, eye-catching way. The resulting image tells a richer story.

2. Follow the Rule of Thirds

Position key elements near one of the intersection points of the thirds grid rather than center-framing. This creates an engaging, balanced composition.

3. Shoot from Creative Vantage Points

Vary your perspective by shooting from below, above, far away or other unconventional angles. Explore all possibilities.

4. Use Leading Lines to Draw Viewers In

Incorporate diagonal or curved lines via buildings, tracks, fences or stairs to direct the viewer's gaze into the frame.

Applying compositional techniques transforms snapshots into thoughtful, artistic Barcelona images.

Editing for Impactful Barcelona Travel Photos

Post-processing brings out the essence of your Barcelona images through targeted adjustments:

1. Enhance Architecture Details with Radial Filters

Use adjustment gradients to selectively brighten, darken or alter color in key areas like making façade details pop.

2. Boost Vibrancy Without Overdoing It

Lift muted tones, especially in landscaping, using HSL tools. But avoid oversaturated colors that look artificial.

3. Reduce Noise and Sharpen for Print Worthiness

Eliminate noise and grain while sharpening selectively to achieve clean, crisp images worthy of large gallery prints.

4. Crop for Stronger Composition

Trim excess elements via cropping to lead the eye towards key subjects and achieve more cohesive framing.

Elegant editing enhances mood, focus and visual impact. Handle edits with care to maintain authenticity.

Packing Light Photography Gear for Barcelona Travel

For mobility while sightseeing, minimalist photography gear is a must:

1. Mirrorless Camera with Pancake Lens

A compact mirrorless body paired with a tiny pancake prime lens provides powerful quality in a small package.

2. Single Lightweight Zoom Lens

An all-in-one zoom like a 24-70mm allows flexible framing from wide angles to portraits without swapping lenses.

3. Small Camera Bag or Pouch

Keep just essentials like camera, lens, spare battery and memory card in a compact bag for light trekking.

4. Smartphone Camera with Lens Add-On

Consider using just your phone camera with supplemental lenses like moment lenses for ultra-portability.

5. Monopod Instead of Tripod

A lightweight monopod steadies your camera and packs down small when space is tight.

Pick gear that lets you react quickly to photographic opportunities without weighing you down.

Finding the Essence of Barcelona

Aim to capture photos that reflect the true spirit of Barcelona beyond the landmarks:

1. Convey Local Lifestyle Through Street Life

Photograph everyday neighborhood moments that tell an authentic story like children playing soccer or old men debating.

2. Focus on Interesting Small Details

Zoom in on elements like intricately tiled steps, hanging flower pots or street mosaic tiles that reveal local culture.

3. Highlight Festivity

Capture Barcelona’s vibrant events and festivals like Castellers, La Mercè and the summer solstice Correfoc with motion and energy.

4. Show Barcelona’s Creative Spirit

See Barcelona through an artistic lens via architecture details, quirky sculptures and colorful street art.

Seek out photos that connect you to the city’s culture, people and unique aesthetic.

Choosing Where to Stay for Easy Barcelona Photography

Base yourself centrally in neighborhoods that offer great access to Barcelona's photographic hot spots:

1. Stay in Barri Gòtic to Walk to Top Sights

This central district puts you steps from the cathedral, Picasso museum and atmospheric alleys perfect for photography wanders.

2. Stay in L'Eixample for Modernism Masterpieces

Situated in L'Eixample, you can easily photograph modernism architecture like La Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló.

3. Stay in Gràcia for Charming Plazas and Street Art

This microcosm of Barcelona offers photogenic local flavor among vintage squares and captivating street art .

4. Stay Near Barceloneta for Seaside Vibes

Photograph historic seaside relaxation along with colorful beach huts in this old port neighborhood.

Base yourself in neighborhoods with easy walking access to Barcelona's most photogenic spots for memorable images.

Avoiding Cliché Barcelona Travel Photos

Create one-of-a-kind Barcelona images by avoiding overdone compositions:

1. Don’t Shoot La Sagrada Familia Straight On

Instead, get closeups of architectural details or shoot from uncommon angles like from across the road.

2. Avoid Closeups of Park Güell Mosaics

Capture the mosaics in wider environmental shots rather than tight macro shots to add context.

3. Don't Just Shoot Barceloneta Beach Parasols

Expand beyond the row of iconic beach huts to show vibrant beach culture through people, activities and landscapes.

4. Skip Generic City Skyline Shots from High Vantage Points

Photograph Barcelona’s architecture from street level or interior plazas for an immersive perspective.

Getting creative with framing, timing and context ensures your images offer a fresh perspective beyond postcard-style shots.

Safety Tips for Barcelona Photography & Sightseeing

When photographing Barcelona, remain situationally aware as you would in any major city:

1. Keep Valuables out of Sight When Not Shooting

Avoid flaunting expensive photography gear when walking between locations. Only bring out gear when actively shooting.

2. Be Wary of Pickpockets in Tourist Zones

Areas with crowds like La Rambla require extra vigilance. Keep valuables secure and be cautious of diversion tactics.

3. Consider a Crossbody Camera Strap

Crossbody camera straps deter thieves and keep your hands free. Use one when navigating busy tourist spots.

4. Familiarize Yourself with City Safety Tips

Review Barcelona city safety recommendations like standing near others and limiting use of phones.

5. Photograph Responsibly

Don’t trespass or damage property. Be respectful when photographing people, especially children.

Remaining alert allows focusing on great photos without safety concerns.

Mastering the Art of Travel Photography in Barcelona

Barcelona’s striking architecture, captivating culture and idyllic Mediterranean light provide endless inspiration for brilliant travel photographs. By pre-planning locations, packing smart gear, honing techniques and exploring creatively, you’ll return home with stunning images that do justice to this vibrant city.

For more tips on capturing Barcelona's beauty with a travel and street photographer's perspective, do not miss Barcelona Photoblog’s previous work. Our acclaimed photography and blogging experience help visitors craft unforgettable Barcelona images.

Barcelona’s welcoming spirit makes it a delight to photograph. Wandering with open eyes, creative spirit and photographic skills, you’ll uncover amazing image opportunities around every corner. This guide equips you with everything needed to make the most of your Barcelona travels and bring home cherished pictures.

How to Make the Most of Your First Trip to Barcelona in 2023

Barcelona is a city that captivates visitors from around the globe with its blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Here are some essential travel tips to make the most of your first trip to Barcelona:

Plan your itinerary wisely. Barcelona offers a wealth of attractions and activities, so it's important to plan your itinerary wisely. Start by outlining a list of the things you most want to see and do. Be sure to include iconic sites such as the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, and the Sagrada Familia. You can find more information about these attractions in my blog posts about the Gothic Quarter, about Las Ramblas, and about the Sagrada Familia.

Secure accommodation in advance. Barcelona is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season. This will ensure you have a comfortable place to stay and give you more options to choose from.

Obtain a Barcelona Card. The Barcelona Card is a great way to save money on transportation, attractions, and tours. It can be purchased for one, two, or three days, and it gives you free entry to many of the city's most popular attractions, as well as discounts on public transportation and tours.

Familiarize yourself with basic Spanish phrases. While many locals in Barcelona speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be immensely helpful. Polite greetings, simple directions, and ordering food are a few key phrases that can enhance your interactions with locals and create a more immersive experience. Here is a list of basic words and phrases in Spanish:

Certainly! Here are some useful Spanish words and phrases that can enhance your experience during your first visit to Barcelona:

1. Greetings:

• - Hello: Hola
• - Good morning: Buenos días
• - Good afternoon/evening: Buenas tardes
• - Goodnight: Buenas noches
• - Goodbye: Adiós

2. Polite Expressions:

• - Please: Por favor
• - Thank you: Gracias
• - You're welcome: De nada
• - Excuse me: Perdón/Disculpe
• - I'm sorry: Lo siento

3. Basic Conversational Phrases:

• - Yes: Sí
• - No: No
• - I don't understand: No entiendo
• - Could you please repeat that?: ¿Podría repetir eso, por favor?
• - Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés?

4. Asking for Directions:

• - Where is...?: ¿Dónde está...?
• - How can I get to...?: ¿Cómo puedo llegar a...?
• - Is it far?: ¿Está lejos?
• - Left: Izquierda
• - Right: Derecha
• - Straight ahead: Todo recto

5. Ordering Food and Drinks:

• - I would like...: Me gustaría...
• - What do you recommend?: ¿Qué me recomienda?
• - Can I have the bill, please?: ¿Me puede traer la cuenta, por favor?
• - A table for two, please: Una mesa para dos, por favor
• - Cheers!: ¡Salud!

6. Shopping:

• - How much does it cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
• - Can I try it on?: ¿Puedo probármelo?
• - I'm just browsing: Solo estoy mirando
• - Do you have this in a different color/size?: ¿Tiene esto en otro color/talla?
• - Can I pay with a credit card?: ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta de crédito?

7. Emergencies:

• - Help!: ¡Ayuda!
• - I need a doctor: Necesito un médico
• - Where is the nearest hospital?: ¿Dónde está el hospital más cercano?
• - I lost my passport: Perdí mi pasaporte
• - I've been robbed: Me han robado

Remember, even if you're not fluent in Spanish, locals appreciate the effort to communicate in their language. These basic phrases will help you navigate common situations and interact with locals more comfortably during your visit to Barcelona. If you manage to learn them in Catalan it would be great!

Prepare for crowds. Barcelona is a popular tourist destination, so certain areas like the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas can become crowded. Be prepared for bustling streets and plan accordingly. Exploring early in the morning or during weekdays might offer a more tranquil experience.

Utilize public transportation. Barcelona boasts an efficient public transportation system, consisting of metro lines, buses, and trams. Purchase a T-10 ticket (no need to buy this one for each of you), which allows ten trips on various modes of transportation, or opt for a travel card that provides unlimited travel for a specific duration. Navigating the city becomes convenient, cost-effective, and time-saving with these options.

Wander on foot. While public transportation is excellent, don't forget to explore Barcelona's streets on foot. Meander through the narrow alleys, soak in the city's atmosphere, and stumble upon hidden gems tucked away from the main tourist routes. Walking enables you to discover charming neighborhoods and stumble upon quaint cafes or boutique shops. Tourist exploration has skyrocketed lately so finding new routes is not that frequent anymore. Don't stop trying though there are still unconquered treasures out there with a good pirate map.

Marvel at Gaudí's architectural wonders. Antoni Gaudí's architectural masterpieces are an integral part of Barcelona's identity. No visit to the city is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, the whimsical Park Güell, and the extraordinary Casa Milà (La Pedrera). Marvel at the intricate details and innovative designs that make Gaudí's works truly unique. But remember our architecture expands way beyond the master's legacy. Try other famous architects like Domenech i Montaner or check my list of 10 best modernist architectural buildings in Barcelona

Indulge in beach time. Barcelona's beautiful coastline beckons visitors to relax and unwind. Set aside time to enjoy the city's sandy beaches, with Barceloneta Beach being the most renowned. Whether it's sunbathing, strolling along the promenade, or engaging in water sports, the Mediterranean Sea provides a refreshing escape. 

Experience the vibrant nightlife. As the sun sets, Barcelona's nightlife comes alive. From cozy bars to pulsating nightclubs, the city offers a diverse range of options for nocturnal adventures. Explore the lively neighborhoods of El Raval, Gràcia, or the trendy district of El Born (not just at night), where you can savor tapas, sip on refreshing cocktails, and dance the night away.

Barcelona is a city that encapsulates the essence of a rich culture and a captivating history, besides our architectural wonders. By following these travel tips, you can ensure a memorable experience during your first visit. Embrace the energy of the city, explore its hidden corners, and immerse yourself in the unique blend of Catalan charm that makes Barcelona an unparalleled destination.

Perfect Holidays on Costa Brava? Come to Blanes!

If you are planning your vacation on Costa Brava, the town of Blanes should be on your list not just because it has a long and wide beach from where sightseeing boats like this depart or because you can find budget accommodation in all inclusive hotels or in a nice Catalan villa, but also due to the fact that the door to Costa Brava, as it is known Blanes, has much more to offer than you could think of:

First of all, its Mediterranean history, a history that tells us of Iberian settlements upon whose ruins Romans built an oppidum, "an ancient Roman provincial town lacking self-government, especially one having walls and fortifications and serving as a provincial strong point" (Merriam - Webster), which they called Blanda or Blandae after a city by the same name in Lucania, a region from ancient Italy. Remnants of the Roman Blanda were found during the els Pedrets excavations in the 70s and also at the parish church, at Racó d’en Portes and near Sant Francesc hermitage. The reason for these strongholds to exist were basically for protection of the coastal towns from pirates or from land incursions.

Of course history extends further, a history of landlords, of castles, of Genoese attacks, of Catalan splendor, of invasions, of migrations to America (Havana, Montevideo and Buenos Aires), but I will not digress.

Based upon such rich past, there grew a fishermen town with an intense activity that was also centered in the industry of textile and cork. Shipyards building fishing boats, frigates and brigantines were also part of the city's main industry in previous centuries. As you can guess, much of those early trades are now secondary to tourism although fishing is still around. Worth mentioning is the local fishing fleet that every morning sails the Mediterranean to bring their fresh captures to be auctioned and sold at nine market stalls from where they go straight to meet the touristic demand.

Blanes together with Lloret de Mar, Malgrat de Mar, Tordera and Palafolls municipalities is part of what is known as the Catalan void, a territory between Maresme and La Selva comarques. This area experienced an important demographic and town planning growth during the XX century. Important migrations from the South of Spain took place then, first during the 20s after the opening of the SAFA artificial fiber factory (1923) and later from 1955 to 1970, coinciding with mass tourism boom. This considerable flux of migrants gave Blanes its unique trait, a melting pot of cultures, from where new Catalans were born.

But why is Blanes good for holidays?

A good reason to visit could be the local cuisine. Take for example this incredible paella I had at Celler Sant Antoni  restaurant very conveniently located near the beach and the marina. I'd also recommend laBalma restaurant or the terrace of Es Blanc.

Another reason may be because accommodation is cheaper than in other Costa Brava towns like Cadaques or Begur for example. Vacation rentals in Blanes might as well be another affordable option for you. From there you could move along the coast easily visiting nearby towns.

Besides eating and sleeping of course, there is always time to walk along carrer Ample to find the beautiful Gothic fountain from 1438, look for Casa Saladrigas by a disciple of Gaudi, visit Marimurtra, one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the Mediterranean, organize a wildlife tour to the Tordera delta, dive in Blanes waters, escalate to the 1582 convent on top of the cliffs overlooking the port or the castle of Sant Joan (better to go by car) and last but not least buy vegs and fresh fruit at the daily market at Passeig de Dintre.

There are plenty of other things to do in Blanes, like going hiking along Cami de Ronda till Cala Bona the favorite beach of locals or getting lost in the intense nightlife of the little cousin, Lloret de Mar.

The list might go on endlessly. I hope that after you enjoy your Costa Brava holidays you come up here and share some more hints with our community.

What to See When Vacationing in Spain

Spain is one of the world’s countries most steeped in culture and history. The nation draws in millions of tourists each year to enjoy its beaches, food, music, art and sculpture. Spain’s ideal geographic location in Europe helped the creation of its centuries old empire. Remnants of the empires last today seen in the bits and pieces of Spanish culture that dot places from Latin America to Northern Africa. Visitors to Spain have a lot to choose from when it comes to itineraries. They could spend the whole time soaking in the Mediterranean sun or dancing to music in the evening streets. If they’re road warriors, they can spend weeks traveling the country trying out the wide variety of food, people and architecture that Spain offers. Even better is the fact that Spain offers a more affordable travel destination than other European tourist powerhouses like France and Germany. You can spend less, get more out of your stay in Spain and walk away with a five-star experience. Here are some of the best things to see across the country on your Spanish getaway.

Granada

Granada is home to the most visited monument in Spain: The Nasrid Palace is famous around the world for its tile work, exquisite stucco ceilings, as well as beautiful pools, fountains and gardens. Over three million people come to Granada every year. The Alhambra is a place and fortress that was built in 889 A.D. on top of old roman buildings. The palace is a literal storytelling of Spain’s history as it changed between the hands of different rulers over the years. The building’s Muslim architecture is a relic of past Islamic empires that ruled the region. The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors to Granada will learn that a lot of songs and tales in Spain are tied to the palace and its history. One of the biggest draws inside the palace is the Court of Myrtles. The Court was used to help cool the palace and was also a symbol of central power. The center pool is crafted with marble pavement with galleries alongside the corridors. One of the most incredible technological feats inside of the palace is the Fountain of the Lions. Twelve marble lions supporting the fountain were made to spew water from its mouth each hour, a hydraulic feat for its time.

The Sagrada Familia Basilica

Located in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia is perhaps the most recognizable of all Spanish architectures. Though initially started under Francesc de Paula del Villar in 1882, famous architect Gaudi took over the job the next year and worked on the church until he died in 1926. In fact, Barcelona is known for other Gaudi projects across the city, and people love the way old avant-garde Gaudi buildings mesh with traditional modern and old Spanish architecture, many visitors are surprised to find out that construction is still ongoing, meaning the building has been on for 137 years. Currently, Joseph Maria Subirachs leads the construction project, and the basilica is nearing completion. The Sagrada Familia is known for its tall spires and detailed exterior. The twelve towers symbolize the twelve original apostles, and the three facades represent the Nativity, the Passion and Death, and the Glory of Christ. The Sagrada Familia is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction is funded by ticket sales and private donations.

Madrid’s Prado Museum

The Prado Museum is one of the greatest collections of art in the world. It’s recognized as the largest art gallery in the world, housing more than 7,500 paintings. Only a small portion of the collection can be displayed at any given time because of space restrictions despite recent additions. The Prado Museum came into being when Charles III combined the disparate royal collections so the people could view them in one place. An interesting bit of history- during the Spanish Civil War, the Prado collection was sent to Switzerland for safekeeping. Once the war ended, it was sent back during the Second World War. In addition to its thousands of paintings, the Prado Museum is home to many marble sculptures, coin collections, and other pieces. Construction on the museum started in the late 18th century and continued for around thirty-five years. Many art collectors still choose to leave their pieces to the Prado Museum when they die, so the collection continues to grow. As a result, more additions have been put on the original buildings. In 2007, a US $219 million addition that took ten years to complete was built to hold large temporary exhibits.

Cathedral of Seville

Seville is one of the most scenic locations in Spain, drawing in international visitors who want to take in the culture of the renowned city. The Cathedral of Seville is the heart of it. It’s also among the oldest of Spain’s famous architecture. Started in 1401, the cathedral was symbolically constructed on top of the Moorish mezquita that was there before. The final stage of the cathedral was finished over three hundred years after building began. No expense was spared during construction. The building has over 75 stained glass windows, marble floors, bronze candelabras and more. Among the other draws to the city, the Cathedral of Seville is famous because it houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus, the famous explorer who discovered the Americas. The cathedral is home to over 500 pieces of priceless artwork, and, you guessed it, the cathedral is also UNESCO World Heritage Site, underscoring the amount of historical treasures to be found in Spain.

These four locations are just the foundation to a wonderful Spanish vacation itinerary. The country has hundreds, if not thousands, of other worthwhile locations and attractions. You’ll find world class music, food, sport and shopping around the country. Getting around is easy and the Spanish people are among the friendliest in the world. Visitors walk away from Spain with a greater appreciation of the region’s history that has done so much to shape the world around us.

World’s Tallest Building in Dubai - Burj Khalifa!

Dubai is located on the Eastern coast of Arabian Peninsula. It is an exotic city which welcomes millions of visitors every year. It is mainly renowned for the luxurious lifestyle, hospitality of people and where you can do world class shopping.

Travel from Barcelona to Dubai for the First Time 

If you are travelling to Dubai for the first time, then you should have all the details about the airport terminals. Emirates airlines provide direct flights and they are bit of less hectic than the break journey. Qatar airways can also be an option. They do stop at Doha once before continuing for Dubai. If you are looking forward to have a trip from Barcelona to Dubai, then you can take Swiss, Pegasus, and Emirates flight too. 

About Dubai: 

The infrastructure of the whole place is outstanding and it gives out a very dynamic energy to the tourists. Dubai is a hot and happening place; one can find all sorts of innovative architecture here. The landmark architecture of Dubai is Burj Khalifa, any tour is incomplete without witnessing that. 

 

 

Where to stay in Dubai: 

One will never have to face any shortage of hotels in Dubai, especially the luxury resorts. The most prosperous areas are the places near the Dubai mall, where the Burj Khalifa is situated. On the either end one can find the Dubai Marina with Burj Al Arab close by the place. There is also the “strip” located on the exact opposite with the charm of Old Dubai. Jumeirah beach is filled with exotic hotels, resorts and restaurants. It is a great delight for the tourists.

 

Why People opt to go to Burj Khalifa? 

Burj Khalifa was launched in the year 2010, it is a skyscraper and one of the most brilliant architecture in the world. It is around 828 metres and has 160 stories and holds the record of being the tallest building in the world. It also has the highest outdoor observation deck in the world, and the elevator travels the longest distance. If you stand beneath the tower, then it will appear like a spiral upwards into the sky like petals of a flower. The interiors are inspired by the local culture in fusion with contemporary design. 

 

Architecture of Burj Khalifa

The architecture is basically an abstract figure of a hymenocallis flower; it features a triple lobbed footprint. It has three main elements that are arranged around the central core. The Y-shaped structure with setbacks provides the support and a stable configuration. At the tallest tower in the world one can have an experience of a lifetime. Architecture is mostly likely the Islamic style.

Tickets for Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa tickets are one of the most sought after attraction passes in Dubai. It is noted for hosting the world’s highest observation decks. There cannot be a better view than this; it will leave every visitor awestruck. One can get the tickets and have dinner in the skies with their beloved.

Things to do in Burj Khalifa

There are a lot of places that one can visit in Burj Khalifa; the Burj Khalifa park is a famous place to visit. Lounges, spas and restaurants are found in the park, designer goods and boutiques are considered as a great purchase. The park allows the tourists to enjoy every attraction around the place.

An Exclusive Bird's Eye View on Barcelona: Diagonal 00

As covered by Barcelona Photoblog in a previous post, the skyline of Barcelona is experiencing a drastic change and the waterfront is no longer spilled with industrial warehouses or fishermen shacks. The explosion of high rise buildings is evident and it is not strange to listen to testimonies of tourists that have enjoyed a wonderful view from one of those state-of-the-art hotels or employees that have the privilege of working in brand new company headquarters facing the sea and surrounded by an idyllic neighborhood. Such is the case of gravity defiant Diagonal 00, Telefonica's flagship head office, a sort of modern Flatiron building in Europe. I am sure that staff working on top floors must have an impressive panorama in front of them every morning, almost like a bird's eye view considering the rest of our urban perimeter is quite flat.

By the way, today I would like to recommend this fantastic video in 3D about Barcelona city in which you have the opportunity to virtually travel on bird's eye view mode over several Barcelona hallmarks. In fact, the video is the result of Oh-Barcelona staff efforts to introduce more advanced visual technologies like 3D in the world of city maps and travel guides. I hope you enjoy the trip!