Barcelona, which is Spain’s second largest city after Madrid covers just over 100km2, with a population of over 1.5 million. Situated in the north east of Spain, Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia and faces the Mediterranean. As a city, Barcelona has become a popular all year round destination for tourists from all walks of life as well as being a notable economic and cultural centre. Not too far from the Pyrenees, the surrounding area is varied in its landscape, offering those seeking a rural element to their break a good selection of topography.

When you’re planning your trip to Barcelona, you’ll have an abundance of choices of accommodation as well as a great range of flight options. For car hire, the low cost car hire options at Barcelona Airport will cater for your every need. By selecting and booking your car before you arrive, you’ll save yourself the hassle of queuing and possible disappointment.

Once you get to your destination in Barcelona, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to activities. The major attractions include Park Guell, which is the outdoor jewel in the crown of Gaudi’s exuberant imagination; Sagrada Familia, the famous ‘melting’ cathedral, which again is of Gaudi’s making (an astounding 40 year project!) and the well known Palau de la Musica Catalana concert hall.

When it comes to wining and dining, you’ll be spoilt for choice from tapas at one end of the spectrum and top of the range seafood dishes at the other. For those seeking a bustling nightlife, there’s a host of clubs offering music and dancing for all tastes.

Finally, if it’s shopping that floats your boat, you won’t be disappointed by the stylish array of shops and outlets to satisfy most tastes and budgets. Arguably the best shopping areas are to be found in Passeig de Gracia and the Boulevard Rosa where the shops are open from early morning until late in the evening allowing you to shop to your heart’s content. A great time for shoppers to visit Barcelona is either the second week in January or the first week in July when the seasonal sales are held.

Situated a mere 13km from Barcelona, Barcelona Airport is easily accessed by car. Spain’s second largest airport after Madrid-Barajas International Airport, it’s commonly known as El Prat Airport and plays host to a wide range of carriers from all corners of the globe. A large airport with a good selection of facilities, low cost car hire options are in abundance in the main terminal building.