Barcelona Tourism - Barcelona Sights and Activities

A plethora of art galleries, museums and attractions

• La Sagrada Família (Church of the Sacred Family) - Whether you think it's the work of a madman or a genius, Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece pushes Gothic to the limit and continues to draw thousands of tourists each year. The ambitiously tall spires seem alive with intricately carved figures. Critics have described the church as "Art Nouveau run wild," but the architect thought his creation was a "catechism in stone."
• Picasso Museum - Works of the most famous modern painter in history are housed in stone mansions that are works of art in themselves. This powerful combination makes this Barcelona's most visited museum. Featuring paintings and ceramics, the exhibits trace Picasso's development from the earliest days, through his disconcerting "blue period," right up until his death.
• L'Aquarium de Barcelona - The largest aquarium in Europe, and the largest Mediterranean marine exhibit in the world, this attraction appeals to all ages. Touch tanks, colorful fish that look like they swam out of Finding Nemo and sea creatures of every kind live here. But the impressive oceanarium steals the show. As you walk through a glass tunnel, you'll find yourself surrounded by fish and even sharks.
• La Font Màgica - At night, this mild-mannered but elaborate fountain bursts to life. Gusts of water, lit from beneath with vivid colored lights, dance to music ranging from Tchaikovsky to the Beatles. Popular year round, this nightly show kicks up a notch on the last night of the Festes de la Mercè, when it's accompanied by a fantastic firework display. There's no cost, but you might want to watch from the comfort of a nearby outdoor café.
• Beaches - When you tire of touring, head to the beach to soak up the Spanish sunshine. The mild climate and calm waters make Barcelona beaches ideal for sailing and windsurfing. The restaurants and cafés that line the waterfront all offer fresh seafood and beautiful views.