Barcelona: Sun-lit boulevards, fancy beach bars and multi-colored mosaic art – it’s a summer lover’s haunt. It’s extremely popular with travelers in summer, thanks to its excellent weather, a great beach right in the heart of the city and the hot hot hot Spanish culture. On day one of the Catalunya Experience (hosted by the Catalunya Tourism Board), I got to see a different side of the city.

In winter, Barcelona sheds its usual colors and puts on a sophisticated coat of mystery and glamour. Join me on a black-and-white pictorial walk through an alternative look at some of the city’s quintessential sights.

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

The National Art Museum of Catalonia,  also known as MNAC, houses the collections of both modern and old art pieces, with varied styles such as the Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. Besides the impressive display of Catalunya art, the museum’s facade is also one of intricate design and architecture. Standing high and proud on the hilltop of Montjuic, you’ll be treated to a bird’s eye view of the city from the museum’s entrance.

(Admission fee: € 8,50; Opening hours: Mon closed, Tues-Sat10am-7pm, Sun 10am-2.30pm)

Plaza de Toros Monumental

Across Plaça d’Espanya from MNAC stands the city’s bullfighting ring, Plaza de Toros Monumental. With a unique architectural style and a rich history in hosting bullfights, the ring was first erected in 1914 and have seen the country through thick and thin.

The ring is no longer is use, and is sadly, being converted into a modern shopping mall. Thankfully, the monument’s facade will be kept in the original condition.

Las Ramblas

The main artery of the city, Las Ramblas is constantly bursting with life, even in winter.

Spanish poet Federico García Lorca once described it as "the only street in the world which I wish would never end".

With caricature artists setting up shop here, alfresco cafes lining the street and florists lighting up winter with bright flowers, Las Ramblas lives up to the Catalan’s joie de vivre.

Port Vell, Barceloneta

Barceloneta, in the city’s central district is famed for the sun, sand and cerveza. In summer, the city dwellers flock here for the awesome beach and some of the best drinking holes in town. In winter, while away your time at Port Vell, a trendy and chic waterfront boardwalk. Expect to find a range of dining options from high-end seafood restaurants to economical foodcourt.

Plaça de Catalunya

If Las Ramblas is the artery of Barcelona, then Plaça de Catalunya has to be its pulpitating heart. Many of its major roads congregate at the biggest square in the city. Best known for its fountains and statues, it’s a great spot to people-watch and mingle with the locals. In the evenings, take a stroll through this square and find flocks of pigeons. 

  Where to stay in Barcelona:

B-Hotel combines minimalism with cutting edge design, showing the stylish side of Barcelona. With a terrace overlooking the city’s major square, it’s also got a view to die for.

Conveniently located at Plaça de Espanya, it’s just 10 minutes away from the city’s major sites and makes for a perfect base. Rates start from 89€ per day.

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Disclosure: This press trip was sponsored by the Catalunya Tourist Board as part of their ‘Blogtrip 2009 – The Catalunya Experience’.

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