Cruise to Barcelona
Barcelona, on the northeast coast of Spain, has become a regular port for several cruise lines, and it’s easy to see why. This vibrant Mediterranean city has an ancient heart in a modern wrapper; a few hours rambling up Las Ramblas will have you experiencing everything from 13th century Gothic architecture to the absolute latest in clothing and jewellery.
Most cruise ships dock in the industrial district, but many offer transportation to the shopping centre of Las Ramblas, a large boulevard lined with everything from exotic pet vendors to designer jewellery stores. Keep an eye out for interesting leather goods while here; the city is justifiably famous for its handmade articles.
If you’d like to get off the beaten track a bit, the Barrio Gothic quarter of the city has winding streets and offbeat little shops. Be sure to bring your camera with you to snap pictures of the architecture, which seems to change around every corner. But keep anything valuable cinched tight to you; Barcelona is notorious for pickpockets.
Tours are available almost every day to the Montserrat Benedictine Monastery high in the mountains, and most cruise lines offer shore excursions to one of the many fabulous art museums in the city, including the Picasso Museum, which features works donated by the artist himself.
If you’d like something a little more active, Barcelona now offers bicycle tours, which are a great way to see more of the city than you can on foot, plus get a little exercise.
No matter what you’re looking for, Barcelona is sure to offer it, and a visit to the city will leave you wanting to return as soon as possible.