Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia is always high on the list for travellers looking for a citybreak. Not only is Spain's second city one of Europe's most cosmopolitan, it is also one of Europe's most unique destinations. In fact Barcelona is the top citybreak destination for Spain holiday deals, beating Madrid thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, good food and most famously its excellent city beaches. Throughout the course of the year Barcelona also has a number of popular festivals that attract holidaymakers of all ages. Primavera sound festival starts off the pick of the city's music events in May and is perfect for anyone looking for an early getaway.
The festival takes place just as Barcelona's weather really begins to heat up so the beaches will be well utilised along with the city's other sites. For holidaymakers wanting to take advantage of the weather it is best to attend the second half of primavera sound in the iconic coastal Parc del forum from the 26th to the 28th of May. Holidaymakers with a passion for everything cultural, and with a love of breathtaking sites should book the opening and closing days on the 25th and 29th of May in Montjuic. This year's event is closed by the Vaccines in one of Spain's highest and most beautiful city parks.
Before heading to join the other revellers in Poble Espanyol a visit to the Palau Nacional, the National Palace is in order. On display are some of Spain's most famous and important works of art including some 12th century frescoes. There is also an impressive collection of gothic art featuring Lluis Dalmau among others. The surroundings of Montjuic alone are enough to want to book late deals to Barcelona, and Poble Espanyol is a fitting place to hold the festival because the area epitomises the eclectic nature of one of the world's best cities.
The name Poble Espanyol translates as Spanish village. The area was built in 1929, at the same time as the Palau Nacional for the international exhibition and includes building styles from all over Spain. Poble Espanyol is a fine showcase of regional Spanish architecture and its main square is heaving during the opening and closing days of an event that has hosted the likes of the white stripes and Portishead in previous years. Castell de Montjuic is another one of the park's most popular sites. The 18th century fort on the summit of the 700ft hill has an interesting and at times bloody history, making it the perfect location for Barcelona's military museum.
The city's modernist architecture is easily among the best in the world with legendary Catalonian architect Gaudi heavily, and spectacularly represented throughout Barcelona. A trip to Eixample is the best place to go and see his more famous works, Casa Mila and La Sagrada Familia. Both buildings are must see sites for visitors taking advantage of cheap holidays to the Catalan capital and visiting from other parts of the affluent north east.
