With a shoreline lapped by the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is one of the most popular cities in Europe to visit. From unique architecture to beautiful beaches and fabulous food, this cosmopolitan hotspot is rich in history and culture. It also offers a wealth of natural and man-made attractions.
In Barcelona you can swoon over art nouveau architecture, as well as the famous works of Antoni Gaudí. The Catalan designer’s best-known work is the Sagrada Família, but there are other impressive Gaudí works scattered across the city.
Other city highlights include the smart Passeig de Gràcia, a hub for shopping, dining, and culture that’s also home to a couple of Gaudí’s most iconic buildings. There’s also Montjuïc, which counts an Olympic Park and a Magic Fountain among its attractions; the Picasso Museum; and FC Barcelona’s stadium, Camp Nou.
You can also explore the old Barri Gòtic (or Gothic Quarter), amble down Las Ramblas, or even enjoy a beach day when the weather is kind. As well as a whole lot more.
For a comfortable, fuss-free, stylish and convenient way to reach Barcelona, book a private jet charter to carry you to northeastern Spain.
The flight time to Barcelona will depend on a number of factors, including the type of aircraft and your departure airport:
• London to Barcelona: approx. 2 hours 5 minutes
• Paris to Barcelona: approx. 1 hour 40 minutes
• Palma to Barcelona: approx. 55 minutes
• Milan to Barcelona: approx. 1 hour 35 minutes
• Zurich to Barcelona: approx. 1 hour 45 minutes
• Berlin to Barcelona: approx. 2 hours 35 minutes
Top Things to Do in Barcelona
1. Sagrada Família
Basílica de la Sagrada Família is Barcelona’s most iconic sight. Though construction began on this Catholic church in the early 1880s, it famously remains unfinished. Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece was also the death of him, as he was run over by a tram while travelling across the city, bound for Sagrada Família.
You can admire the organic architecture, appealing facades, and twisting towers from the exterior of the church, which is located in the Eixample district. However, it is well worth venturing inside to see the crypt, where Gaudí is buried; the sweeping city views from the towers; and sunlight pouring in through the stained glass windows.
2. Park Güell
Sagrada Família is only one of seven UNESCO-listed Gaudí sites in Barcelona. Park Güell is another of the city’s artistic and architectural highlights. It is home to a Gaudí museum, as well as buildings, sculptures, and steps adorned with colourful mosaics.
Park Güell is situated in the Gràcia district. Its hilltop position means visitors can enjoy panoramic views over Barcelona from the park. The 17-hectare site is awash with artistic treasures, and offers plenty of pleasant green space, too.
3. Passeig de Gràcia
Not only is Passeig de Gràcia the most exclusive street in Barcelona, it's also where you’ll find another couple of Gaudí’s best-known works. These are Casa Batlló, an apartment complex that now houses a museum; and Casa Milà, an art nouveau Gaudí creation now used as a concert and exhibition venue.
Like Sagrada Família, Passeig de Gràcia is also positioned in the Eixample district. Beyond Gaudí, this upmarket thoroughfare offers the city’s finest shopping and dining establishments. It’s also a cultural and business hub.
4. Picasso Museum
Barcelona is not solely about Antoni Gaudí. Pablo Picasso gets a look-in, too, thanks to the Museu Picasso. This sizable depository houses over 4,000 Picasso works, and is of particular interest when it comes to the artist’s earlier years. The pieces include drawings, engravings, and of course paintings.
Highlights of the Museu Picasso Barcelona include the Las Meninas series, the Blue Period paintings, and of course pieces showcasing the Spanish artist’s development of cubism.
5. Montjuïc
Montjuïc literally translates as “Jewish Mountain,” as the elevated area was formerly home to the city’s Jewish community. The area comprises a hill clad in woodland, southwest of the city centre. It’s more than 170 metres above sea level.
Visit Montjuïc and you can discover the Castell de Montjuïc; stroll around the nearby botanical gardens; see the Olympic village built for the 1992 Games; wander around the Joan Miro Foundation and the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya; explore Poble Espanyol, aka the Spanish village; or take in an exhibition at the Caixa Forum or a performance at the Teatre Grec (Greek Theatre).
Montjuïc is also home to the Magic Fountain, a vast water feature with regular illuminated shows set to music. The best way to access Montjuïc Castle is to take a funicular train from Paral-lel metro station, followed by a cable car ride to the summit.
6. Camp Nou
No football fan will want to miss Camp Nou. It’s Europe’s biggest stadium, and the base for FC Barcelona. The name means “New Field.” You can take stadium tours and visit the museum. There’s a Leo Messi area, and various European Cups on display.
The hallowed stadium is around 15 minutes by car from central Barcelona. You may even get to see the team play if you manage to book tickets for a match scheduled during your stay.
Where to Stay in Barcelona
The number one place to stay in Barcelona has to be the Mandarin Oriental, which boasts an unbeatable location on smart Passeig de Gràcia. Unsurprisingly, it has all the features you might expect from a top-drawer hotel, including indoor and rooftop pools, a fabulous spa, and a restaurant with two Michelin stars. Service is outstanding, with car parking and 24-hour room service available.
Hotel El Palace Barcelona is another five star pick. It was once a Ritz, and has a stately, elegant feel to match - plus doormen wearing top hats. The property is opulent inside and out, and some rooms and suites have whirlpool baths. This iconic pile with a spa, restaurants and pools is centrally located in Eixample, close to Las Ramblas.
For exceptional service, exclusivity, and an excellent location, book a room or suite at Almanac Barcelona. This plush property offers attentive staff, modern rooms with every amenity you could wish for, and a whole host of facilities including a spa, a rooftop pool and bar, and a fine dining restaurant.
Group Charter Flights to Barcelona
Book a private jet and you can travel to Barcelona in luxury, style, and comfort. From special family holidays to business trips, this bespoke travel experience makes the journey every bit as memorable as the city itself.
Barcelona is the ideal setting for any event. There are plenty of deluxe five-star properties to pick from, as well as an array of venues to suit every occasion.
When you charter a private plane, your flight times can be arranged to suit you, while avoiding all the hustle and bustle of a busy commercial airport’s public areas.
The interior of the aircraft can also be configured just as you like - whether you plan to socialise with colleagues, unwind with your family, or get down to business.
Our experienced Group Aircraft Charter team ensures a sleek, seamless experience throughout your trip, from clearing customs and getting on board to comfortable, luxurious hotel transfers.
Recommended Airport in Barcelona for Private Jet
Barcelona-El Prat Airport - or Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport to give it its full title - is the second largest in Spain (after Madrid).
The airport is just over nine miles from the city centre. This Spanish hub handles all kinds of private jets and even has a dedicated terminal for private aviation.
Do you want to experience the comfort, convenience, exclusivity, and seclusion of a private jet charter when travelling to Barcelona? Our team is available 24/7.
