Digging into our ethos of “fast cars slow living”, we hope to inspire you to travel with racing but to take a little longer; to make a road trip through the landscapes, experience the culture, the food, the art, and the architecture.
Barcelona is one of the great cities in Europe, full of wonder and beauty. In the great Catalonia capital, there's a distinct passion for life, food, culture, and architecture. Defined by its color, the wonderful weather, and insane views to the Mediterranean ocean, Barcelona is a place you’ll never forget. Although the city is vibrant, energetic and bustling, life here isn’t rushed - it’s enjoyed, and so should your trip. Here are some stops we think you should make on your trip to Barça!
Key Information
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Currency: Euro ($)
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Language: Spanish, Catalan, English
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Time Zone: Central European Standard Time
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In an Emergency: Call 112
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Weather: The race falls in spring, where average temperatures see highs of around 23°C and lows of 15.5°C.
The Circuit
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya was built in 1991, and began hosting sporting events in the same year. The circuit is one of Europe’s busiest tracks hosting sporting events for Formula 1 and MotoGP. With a mix of slow and fast corners, a long straight and multiple changes in elevation, this track is frequently used for testing. Because of this, Formula One drivers and mechanics are extremely familiar with it.
Track Facts
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Michael Schumacher has won the Spanish Grand Prix more times than any other driver, with six victories in total.
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Ferrari are the most successful constructor at this track with a total of 11 wins.
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Valterri Bottas set the new track lap record with a 1:18.183 during the 2020 season.
See
Sagrada Familia - Antoni Gaudí’s La Sagrada Familia is the heart of Barcelona, combining religion, culture, architecture and art, the building distinguishes itself from the rest of the city due to its size. Lauded as one of the most iconic places in the world, this Basilica is a must do when visiting Barcelona. The guided tour is worth the expense, since the music, the narration and the facts make the visit that much more special. Cost starts at: £41.90 for adults, and £26.22 for children under the age of 10.
Barrio Gótico (Gothic Quarter) - The Gothic Quarter is a series of narrow streets opening onto picturesque squares. The area is home to some of the best tapas places in the city, plus some amazing restaurants, bars and shops with everything from clothes to local art. Nearby, you can stroll down La Rambla, the city’s most famous street, where you will find some of the best shopping in the city.
Parc Güell - Another one of Gaudí’s great contributions to the city, Parc Guell is a magical wonderland full of color, mosaics, and a beautiful view of the city. Among the most popular sights in this park are the serpentine bench, the Austria Gardens and Gaudí House Museum, and the Parc Güell lizard sculpture.
Camp Nou - If you’re a fan of football, FC Barcelona or Lionel Messi, then Camp Nou is a must-do stop in Barcelona. Not only do you get to see where the team plays, but also see the trophies they’ve won and do a team history tour. If you go through a more extensive tour, you’ll have a chance to see the locker room and visit the press room. General tour tickets range from: £30.85 to £100 depending on the extent of your visit.
For more info visit: https://www.fcbarcelona.com/en/tickets/camp-nou-experience
Do
Half Day Bike Tour - To experience the most of Barcelona in a short period of time, this guided tour takes you to all the important spots in town. At only £26 per person, the tour is also a cost-effective way to explore the city. With this tour, you get to see the Gothic Quarter, La Sagrada Familia, the Barcelona Cathedral and much more. This trip is family friendly and provides equipment for all members of the group.
Kayak & Snorkel La Costa Brava Day tour - If you want a break from the city life, and are looking for a relaxing beach day, La Costa Brava is the place for you. Only a short ride away from Barcelona, this coastal paradise is the perfect day getaway. La Costa Brava is a combination of modern beach towns, with a mix of ancient ruins and castles. With this tour, you can enjoy snorkelling and kayaking through crystal clear waters. Best part about this day trip is that you can enjoy the experience without having to book hotels. Tickets per person: £69.77
Montjuic & Old Urban F1 Circuit Drive with 10-Minute Helicopter Flight - This is the most luxurious way to witness the city of Barcelona’s views. With this experience, you get to drive around the old F1 circuit in Montjuic in a Ferrari supercar and then enjoy the best views of Barcelona from the air. While the cost is a little steep, £161.75 per person, the experience will be unforgettable.
Eat
Brugarol Barcelona - Located in the Gothic Quarter, Brugarol features a fusion of Japanese, Catalan and international cuisine. Self-described as “japo-tapas,” the main idea behind this restaurant is Spanish-style tapas heavily inspired by Japanese cuisine. The vibe, the food and the service all combine to create a magical experience here. Among the popular dishes are the tasting menu, the brisket, the bravas and the sushi egg yolk.
Mercat la Boqueria - The Boqueria Market is located in Las Ramblas and has some of the best fresh food that the region has to offer. Occupied with stalls serving fresh oysters, olives and cured meats, this place has everything that is a staple in many meals in Catalonia.
Le Romane - This typical Italian restaurant has some of the best pizza in Barcelona. With a wide range of toppings, and always fresh ingredients, you’re guaranteed to satisfy any pizza craving you may ever have. Family-friendly and fast, Le Romane is a great place to grab a quick meal and head out to continue exploring.
Drink
CocoVail Beer Hall - Enjoy locally brewed craft beer and chicken wings in the heart of Barcelona, just around the corner from Casa Batlló. CocoVail Beer Hall is one of the most popular bars in Barcelona; and for good reason. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a casual pint with friends, catch the big game on the big screen, or challenge your buddy to a game of Jenga, this is the place to be.
Vai Moana - Live a day at the beach with the best tapas and drinks in Barcelona. Located on the popular Bogatell Beach, Vai Moana is the ideal spot to watch the sun set over the ocean. With its friendly service and rustic Polynesian-style vibe, this local favorite is charmingly simple and provides a laid-back setting for everyone to enjoy. From Spanish paella and Hawaiian Poke to meaty burgers and of course a mouthwatering drinks menu, Vai Moana has it all.
Coffee & Brunch
Bicioci Bike Café - Located in the bohemian neighborhood of Gracia, the beautifully designed Bicioci Café serves great coffee, awesome food and hipster vibes.
Espai Joliu - A plant concept store and coffee shop is located in the neighborhood of Poble Nou, near Bogatell beach and Torre Agbar. Espai Joliu offers free WiFi, a quirky, vintage design and cosy vibe. Enjoy brunch, fresh bakes and coffee supplied by Nomad Coffee roasters, the best in town.
Stay
Seventy Barcelona - Avant-garde, modern and millennial, Seventy Barcelona offers one of the most beautiful locations to stay in this great city. With nice dining options and a spa, this hotel will make your vacation just perfect. The rooms are spacious, the staff is friendly and the hotel is located in a charming part of town.
The Hoxton, Poblenou - The Hoxton, Poblenou gives you a real flavour of local life. Enjoy one of the 240 beautifully designed rooms and relax at the rooftop pool and taqueria. The lobby is bright and airy providing the perfect place to unwind after a busy day exploring the city. And don’t leave without grabbing a bite to eat from the slice shop on the sunny pizza terrace.
H10 Cubik - This four-star hotel is located right in the heart of Barcelona, just a few feet away from the cathedral and the city's historic centre. The hotel offers large, comfortable rooms, and some good dining options. The real stunner is the terrace located on the eighth floor, featuring a pool and spectacular panoramic views of the city.
Mas Salagros - Located in a natural reserve, and near the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, this hotel is 100% eco-friendly. With organic food and sustainable practices, this little oasis feels like leaving all of your problems behind. Slow-paced and calming, a stay here is guaranteed to leave you more relaxed than you came.
W Barcelona - This 5-star hotel is located on the famous Barceloneta beachfront, with each guestroom providing panoramic views over the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Barcelona. The hotel boasts it’s Eclipse rooftop bar, the signature ‘Living Room’ and the recently opened ‘Fire’ restaurant. Outside you will find the iconic WET pool surrounded by sun terraces and cabanas to enjoy, plus the only beachfront access at any hotel in the city. The hotel is 19km from Barcelona Airport and 94km from Girona Airport.