Reasons to Fly to Barcelona Before Your Cruise

A European cruise offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and exquisite cuisines of Western Europe. By choosing one of our cruises from Barcelona, you’ll add one of the world’s most sought-after travel experiences to your already spectacular itinerary.

Starting in 2020, you can be among the first to set sail from Barcelona on the brand-new Dinogo Radiance^™, enjoying its many enhanced features.

We suggest allowing a few extra days to discover the wonders of Barcelona before or after your cruise. The city enjoys a delightful climate, boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and features beautiful Mediterranean beaches.

Moreover, Barcelona is known for its laid-back, inviting ambiance, perfect for savoring festive drinks and authentic Catalan dishes. Still looking for more reasons to set sail from Barcelona? We’ve put together a list of the top seven reasons why you should book your cruise today!

1. Marvel at Stunning Architecture

Barcelona is famous for its extraordinary architectural feats, and you don’t have to be an architecture enthusiast to admire its many unique and striking structures. The most iconic is La Sagrada Família, the unfinished work of Antoni Gaudí, featuring eight slender spires that soar towards the heavens.

You’ll also have the opportunity to explore remnants of the Middle Ages, with 14th-century churches nestled along the winding streets and squares of the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). You can arrange a guided walking tour to gain deeper insights into these historic sites from a knowledgeable guide.

2. Explore Exceptional Museums

Barcelona boasts a plethora of captivating museums that cater to a wide range of interests among visitors.

• If you’re curious about the city’s history dating back to Roman times, you’ll find museums that offer insights into Barcelona’s rich past.
• Art lovers can explore various art museums showcasing the works of renowned Spanish artists like Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró.
• Visit the Barcelona Royal Dockyards and the surrounding museums to discover the extensive collection of historical boats and sailing vessels that played a significant role in Catalonia’s maritime heritage.
• Don’t miss the renowned museum dedicated to the country’s soccer team.
• Experience Barcelona’s award-winning science museum, featuring a recreation of the Amazon rainforest ecosystem and a kid-friendly bubble planetarium.

3. Relax on Gorgeous Beaches

Barcelona boasts 10 blue flag beaches, certified for adhering to the highest standards of clean water. The stunning beaches stretch nearly three miles along the Mediterranean coast, making it an ideal spot to unwind before your cruise departure.

The city’s most popular beaches include Sant Sebastiá, Somorrostro, and Barceloneta, all monitored by lifeguards and equipped with snack bars, rentals for hammocks and umbrellas, as well as restrooms and showers. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s more than just sunbathing; you can also engage in kayaking and various water sports.

4. Wander Along Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is Barcelona’s most iconic street, a vibrant promenade that extends three-quarters of a mile from Plaçca de Catalunya at the heart of the city to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell.

As you stroll, take a moment to relax at one of the numerous outdoor cafés and bars, enjoy street performances, and browse through vendors offering unique souvenirs. While walking along Las Ramblas, be sure to look for an oversized mosaic embedded in the sidewalk and interact with the locals at the Font de Canaletes.

5. Explore La Boqueria

Nestled just off Las Ramblas, La Boqueria is a sprawling public market and a must-visit attraction in Barcelona. Navigate through its labyrinthine rows of stalls, showcasing vibrant fruits, vegetables, flowers, nuts, olives, herbs, and spices.

With around 200 vendors, you’ll find butcher shops, delicatessens, and fish markets, along with stalls offering handcrafted items and artisanal products. Some even operate as small counter-service restaurants where you can sit down and savor some sangria and tapas.

Whether you're tasting local dishes or hunting for souvenirs in Barcelona, La Boqueria caters to all tastes. Keep in mind that the market is closed on Sundays, and it's advisable to visit early to avoid the crowds.

6. Discover Picturesque Parks and Gardens

Barcelona is home to around 60 public parks and gardens, offering plenty of chances for visitors to appreciate the city's natural beauty. Experience Montjuïc, the largest park in the city, located on the slopes of the mountain with the same name. Its lush landscapes include wooded areas, trails for walking, jogging, and cycling, as well as botanical and sculpture gardens, along with the Magic Fountain.

At night, the fountain comes alive with lights and music – a captivating performance. Other parks worth exploring in Barcelona include Gaudí's Park Güell, the Labyrinth Park featuring its garden maze, and Parc de la Ciutadella, which houses both the Parliament building and Barcelona Zoo.

7. Savor Delicious Foods and Beverages

With so many activities to enjoy in Barcelona, your taste buds will be eager to explore the city’s acclaimed culinary landscape. Be sure to indulge in traditional Catalan dishes, which highlight high-quality ingredients like jamón, fresh seafood, and seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Enjoy classic Spanish delights like paella and sangria, or sample a variety of intriguing small dishes at a tapas bar. Barcelona is rich in delightful food and drinks, and boasts a lively nightlife scene, providing opportunities to experience live jazz or flamenco shows while you dine.

Start your vacation by flying to Barcelona and immersing yourself in unforgettable European destinations like Rome, Sicily, Dubrovnik, and Malta. Now is the perfect moment to book a European cruise.