Virgin Voyages' guide to Barcelona

Barcelona

Buzzing about Barcelona

With its laid-back attitude, fresh-from-the-sea cuisine, and thriving art scene, Barcelona is the envy of every other Mediterranean city. No other stop on the Mediterranean oozes culture like Barcelona. Thanks to the famous Antoni Gaudí’s avant-garde architecture and influence, Barcelona boasts nine UNESCO World Heritage sites for visitors to marvel at. The Catalonian capital attracts bohemians, nomads and separatists seeking independence.

Beyond the bucket-list destinations like La Sagrada Familia and La Rambla, Barcelona’s unique barrios beg to be explored. Each district has its own personality with its own charm like El Born’s chic bars and boutiques and Barri Gotic’s historic streets. In Barcelona, it’s easy to wander from district to district with its small city feel and sights that turn heads on every city block.

Shore Excursions

The Barcelona bucket list

What to do, see and enjoy

Post Voyage: Sitges by the Sea

Just south of Barcelona lies Sitges, a picturesque town on the Catalan coast known for its film festivals and sandy beaches. Stroll down Sitges historic Old Town streets or spend the day at an exclusive resort. At the resort, you can swim in the Mediterranean, walk along the sandy shore, or just relax in the breeze.

More Shore Things for your wishlist...

We have even more in our curated catalog.

Browse all Shore Things

Post Voyage: Cava Sparkling Wine Tour

BCNSIP00001

Grab a glass at a cava class in a Catalan cellar

Post Voyage: Top of the Sagrada Família

BCNCXP00002

Visit the Sagrada Família and Hospital de Sant Pau

Post Voyage: Highlight Tour + BCN Transfer

BCNOYO00001

Explore Barcelona's highlights before going home

Beach, please

Sand was imported from Egypt to enliven the beaches for the 1992 Olympics.

Whether it’s your first time visiting or your fiftieth, Barcelona always has something up its sleeve to surprise you. Each time you visit, La Sagrada Familia gets a little more complete and the walkable streets start to feel more familiar. The chiringuitos and montaditos will be missed — in that exact order from partying at the beach bars (chiringuitos) and feasting on a variety of mini sandwiches (montaditos) well into the a.m. As you bid Barcelona goodbye by watching the sunset from the top of Montjuïc hill or ordering another round of tinto de verano (sangria’s lighter sister), take with you a bit of Catalan culture and its infectious energy.

***Please be aware that all Sailors may be required to show proof of vaccination (a photocopy is acceptable) in Barcelona, and a photo ID may also be required to return to the ship. Sailors should also bring masks with them as they may be required in some establishments.