Catalonia

Catalonia is an autonomous region occupying the northeastern part of Spain. The region is a coveted travel destination for fans of Mediterranean beaches, soccer, and medieval architecture. In addition, in the recent past, Catalonia has given the world a host of creative personalities, from Salvador Dali to Monserrat Caballé, which it never forgets to brag about to foreign visitors.

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Video: Catalonia

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General Information

‘ Spain. As a result, a trip here can be seen as a unique opportunity to get to know a region that has every chance of becoming a separate country in the foreseeable future. Today Catalonia is the provinces of Barcelona, Tarragona, Girona and Lleida, each of which is subdivided into 41 comarca districts. In addition, the autonomy has its own government and parliament, as well as a reputation as one of Spain’s most advanced regions economically.

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Tourism in Catalonia is not just developed – they live here. It is enough to remember the capital of the autonomy – Barcelona, which received a permanent “residence” in the top 20 most visited cities in the world and receives 9 million travelers a year. It is clear that such demand from foreigners could not but affect the pricing policy, so, going on a tour of Catalan cities, prepare to spend a little more than planned. Another tourist “magnet” of the region is the Pyrenees, or rather, their ski slopes. At first glance, the local skiing areas may seem insufficiently party-like after the crazy après-ski of the Alpine resorts. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the mountains not to show off in front of other travelers, but only to ride pleasantly in some quiet, remote from the cities location, Catalonia will be the best option.

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‘ Barcelona.
‘ Tarragona‘
‘ Girona
‘ Lleida

Climate. Best time to travel

‘ Spain, thanks to the abundance of rainfall and suitable temperature conditions for vegetation. Weather realities vary throughout the region: in the areas close to the sea, there is a typical Mediterranean climate with moderately hot summers and mild winters. But the further inland you go, the less resort-like the conditions become. In the provinces far from the coast, the climate is closer to the classic continental climate, which implies scorching heat in the summer months and appreciable frost – in winter.

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For lovers of hot beach parties, Catalonia is ideal in the summer. True, you will have to take into account the fact that in June the water in this part of the Mediterranean Sea does not get warmer than +20 ° C. On the other hand, it is in June that Catalans have a blast at the San Juan Festival, also called Bonfire Night, when local towns turn into giant venues for fire shows organized by Spanish craftsmen.

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‘ Barcelona in winterhttps://trevaladvisor.com/img%img/Kataloniyareterte/Gornolyzhny-kurort-v-Pireneyakh.jpg” alt=””/>‘ Ski resort in the Pyrenees

Catalonia in spring is a riot of colors, unstable, often rainy weather and a unique opportunity to tour mountain trails, access to which has been blocked all winter. Tourists are still few at this time of year, unless you are in the autonomy on the eve of Holy Week, when a quarter of all Spain flies here. You can also postpone visiting the cultural heritage of the region to April-May – it’s already pleasant enough outside, and an umbrella will protect you from sudden rains.

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‘ Catalonia in spring
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History of Catalonia

‘ Barcelona. The Iberians were the first to arrive here around the 2nd millennium B.C. The Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians and Romans then began to pull up the coast, alternately claiming the land as their colonial property. Around the V century AD, the north of Spain, along with Barcelona, conquered the Visigoths, who founded on the site of the latter the capital of their state – Gotalonia. Modern scholars believe that it was this name that later transformed into the word “Catalonia.”

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In the 8th century, the Visigoths were forced out of the region by the Arab-Berbers, and those, in turn, were expelled from Catalan territories by the Franks. Soon the counts of Barcelona were tired of watching their lands pass from one powerful owner to another, and as a result they decided to secure the patronage of a stronger neighbor. Thus, Catalonia became part of the Kingdom of Aragon, under the protection of which it remained until the 18th century.

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Since 1871, Catalonia, dissatisfied with the taxation system, made persistent attempts to secede from Spain. In 1930, the region even tried to openly declare its independence, but the Spanish government managed to arrest the instigators of the uprising. Catalonia managed to obtain the status of autonomy only in 1979, but the concessions made by the state did not suit the local population, so the question of full separation remained open. It came to the point that in 2017 the region held a unilateral referendum and then declared its independence, which to this day remains unrecognized by the Spanish government.

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Cities and attractions in Catalonia

For Catalans, the desire for individualization is an indispensable component of the national mentality, so all attempts to get an idea of the region by visiting just one of its cities are doomed to failure. A keen desire to stand out against the background of neighbors is inherent in every village here, not to mention such megacities as Barcelona. Accordingly, if you want the ultimate “motley” impressions from the trip, do not be lazy to look in tiny towns and remote from the coastal provinces – hundreds of colorful photos and interesting meetings are provided.

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In terms of concentration of architectural monuments, the capital of Catalonia – Barcelona – continues to hold the lead. If the budget and free time allow, it is better to take a week to get acquainted with it, otherwise there is a risk of not having time to feel the atmosphere of the favorite city of the Catalans. Mandatory points of tourist stops in Barcelona: the Gothic Quarter, the Eixample district with the main Spanish long-building called Sagrada Familia, La Rambla boulevard, the mecca of all gastronomes of the world – Boqueria market, and of course, the bizarrely macabre houses of Antoni Gaudi.

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‘ Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter
‘ La Rambla Boulevard
‘ Sagrada Familia
‘ Dom Baglio

You can change the architectural dominants of Barcelona for a more peaceful picture in Cadaqués, which is subtly reminiscent of the communes of the Côte d’Azur – the same white-washed villas on the seashore, the atmosphere of ease and creative inspiration. At the beginning of XX century the city was “loved” by bohemians, but then lost its charm in the eyes of the creative elite, which has only benefited it. Today Cadaques is a cozy resort for the last romantics and admirers of Dali’s work. Here remained the house-museum of the artist, as epathetic as its owner.

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‘ Cadakes.
‘ Girona – boasts fortress walls that have withstood about 25 enemy sieges, the historic center of Barri Vel, a cathedral with the world’s largest nave and colorful houses along the banks of the Onyar River. By the way, Girona locations are featured in the 6th season of “Game of Thrones”, as well as in the once sensational movie adaptation of the novel “Perfumer” by P. Süskind, so movie buffs are frequent guests in the city. Be sure to also visit Girona’s reconstructed Jewish Quarter, and with it the local museums – art, archaeology, Jewish history, and film.

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Small but ancient Figueres is proud of its status as the birthplace of Salvador Dali. If you can’t help but be fascinated by the artist’s personality, don’t pass it by – the city has a theater Dalí designed by himself, as well as several curious, albeit small, museums. Traveling to provincial locales can be quite generous with experiences, too. For example, a journey into the frozen Middle Ages awaits all visitors to the town of Besalu – here you will find a stone seven-span bridge, watchtowers, and perfectly preserved houses of artisans, complemented by cobbled squares with Gothic basilicas. Similar medieval decorations can also be found in Mura and Montefalco Muraliata.

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‘ Theater-Museum Dalí in Figueres
‘ The medieval city of Besalu

For epic views and inspiring photo shoots, stay on course for Castelfoljit de la Roca. The town nestles on the edge of a 50-meter cliff and looks like it’s preparing to meet the end of the world. There are plenty of hotels and apartments in old stone cottages in Castelfoljit de la Roca, so if you want to enjoy the “suspended” state for a while longer, you can do it without any problems.

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‘ Castelfolit de la Roca.

Tiny Siurana has slightly less extreme terrain, but also a more medieval look. The village retains the ruins of an Arab palace, the governor’s fortress, and a fabulous, cobblestone street. Tourists eager to conquer the peaks in Siuran will not get bored either: the surrounding area is full of rocks, on which you can climb as much as you like. If you don’t feel the urge to go to the mountains, but still want the historical flavor, welcome to Monels and Prades. Both towns are set amongst well-maintained fields and valleys that are indescribably delightful with their accentuated pastoral views.

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‘ Siurana.
‘ Monels.

Nature

Trying to comprehend the natural grandeur of Catalonia is best done in the Aigues Tortes National Park, which is home to the mountain peaks of the Pyrenees, fantastic waterfalls, and tectonic lakes.

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You can diversify your experience in the Garoccia volcanic zone – don’t worry, all the volcanoes are dormant.

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Tourist groups rarely reach the Cape de Creus reserve – and in vain: the bizarre landscapes formed on the cape under the action of erosion can be a unique background for vacation selfies.

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‘ Aygues Tortes National Park

Do it in Catalonia!

  • Tour Catalonia’s spiritual symbol, the Montserrat Monastery, to see the statue of the famous Black Madonna.
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  • Relive your childhood at the giant amusement park PortAventura with its fun themed zones representing historical civilizations from the Wild West era to the Mayan culture.
  • Participate in the rampant Coven, which takes place every year in Cervera (province of Lleida). Attention: Tourists with children should stay for the costume parade, as the other festival events have an age limit of 18+.
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  • Check out the Camp Nou stadium, where the legendary Barça FC train. And of course, have time to spend the contents of your wallet on souvenirs and striped shirts in the store located there.
  • Light up in every way with Catalan pyromaniacs dressed as devils at the Correfoc Festival.
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Beach vacations

The bathing season in Catalonia is primarily on the Costa Dorada and Costa Brava. It is on them are concentrated beaches that meet both traditional and the most extraordinary requirements. Sandy and stony, wild and club, with gentle slopes and access and lurking in tight bays with almost vertical paths – you can choose a new place to swim in Catalonia every day, throughout the vacation. At the same time, the status of the most party and tolerant locations still remains for the beaches of the capital of the autonomy – Barceloneta and “captured” by representatives of LGBT Marbella.

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On the Costa Brava popular Castell (municipality Palamos), covered with fine yellow sand and surrounded by relic pine trees. If you are in the vicinity of Begur, go looking for a place for a towel on Aiguablava – a beach hidden from prying eyes in a lovely bay and designed for lovers of crystal clear water.

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Speaking of coves: if you like rocky-rocky landscapes, build a route along the coast of Cape de Creus, where there are plenty of secluded mini-beaches. Sometimes the way to such locations can be a little extreme, but if you are ready to see at the end of the trip absolutely deserted paradise, it is worth the effort. Other Costa Brava beach and resort areas include Sagaro, Santa Cristina, Fenals, San Pere Pescador, Cala Rovira, Canadel, Tamariu, Playa de Aro.

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‘ Aiguablave beach.
‘ Cape Cap de Kreus
‘ Fenals
‘ Playa de Aro.

The ranking of the Costa Dorada’s most spectacular beaches is headed by Cala Fonda, whose view is remotely reminiscent of a Hawaiian landscape. In this regard, the place has an alternative name – Waikiki. Not inferior in popularity to Cala Fonda and Calafell, which has collected in its vicinity a mass of ancient and medieval monuments. Young people prefer to hang out on Kunit, while Catalan nudists have taken a liking to Playa del Torne. Perfectionists in matters of cleanliness will love L’Arrabassade and Ponente, annually marked by the Blue Flag. Very clean, almost sterile, and on Altafullja, located in the town of the same name.

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‘ Cala Fonda beach
‘ Calafel.

A decent option for a vacation can be Larga. It’s one of the longest beaches on the coast, so there’s plenty of room for everyone. Surfers and divers prefer to relax on Tamarit, where the “right” waves are in full order. A harmonious combination of golden sand, Mediterranean pines and rocky lagoons should be sought in the vicinity of La Pineda resort.

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‘ Larga Beach
‘ Tamarit Beach and Castle

Ski resorts

In terms of the range of winter sports activities, Catalonia is certainly not Switzerland or even Austria, but the region has its own army of fans. The largest number of suitable ski resorts is located between Girona and Lerida. The largest resort in the region is Bakeira-Beret, which combines three skiing areas. The total length of the slopes here – 86 km, the difficulty levels of descents – from green to black.

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‘ Bakeyra-Beret.
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Barcelona skiers prioritize La Molina, which is about 140 km from the Catalan capital. The complex has been operating since 1909 and offers 60 equipped slopes, most of which are designed for beginners and fans of quiet skiing. Today La Molina is part of the united skiing area Masella, which only increased the number of its fans. At the same time there is no big crowd here, unless, of course, you find yourself at the resort in the middle of the Spanish school vacations.

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‘ Andorra, in a fairytale valley. The location is aimed at visitors with children, so it offers a more developed infrastructure like cozy cafes, a ski school, museum exhibitions and a small amusement park.

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The southernmost point of the Eastern Pyrenees is still the resort of Port del Comte, with its 36 pistes and altitude differences from 1700 to 2400 meters. A day adult ski pass here costs 37 EUR. The ski base Walter 2000 also belongs to the quiet and cozy skiing areas. The length of the slopes here is just under 19 km, and the stability of the cover is maintained by 11 snow cannons.

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Catalan cuisine

The concept of “Catalan cuisine” is very conditional, as a great contribution to the culinary traditions of the region was made by the conquerors, which, by the way, there were quite a few. The fastest snack option for tourists and Catalans in a hurry on business is tapas. Formally this term in the autonomy denotes light snacks, but in practice the word “tapas” means anything you like – from chips to a meat sandwich. An alternative to tapas is pinchos, which are the Catalan version of canapés.

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‘ Costa Brava honors suquetas – seafood stewed in a vegetable broth.

To get acquainted with the national cuisine are excellent city markets, and it is better to visit those where the Catalans themselves buy – for example, the same Boqueria is focused on tourists and scares off fantastic prices. You can also have a light snack in the snack bars with the wordy name “Tapas”. In bodegas and so-called champanerias it is pleasant to taste local wine, served with jamon, cheese slices and sandwiches.

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‘ Bokeriya Market
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The only thing that can upset a foodie in Catalonia is the prices, which even the Spaniards themselves consider inflated. Cheap cafes and restaurants in the autonomy are few, but it is worth looking for them if the budget of the trip is limited. The best option is to choose establishments offering set lunches (meunts del dia). For breakfast, small coffee shops and private bakeries serving hot coffee with an airy bun or cookies are ideal. It is worth bearing in mind that almost all local restaurants are closed on Sunday or Monday. In addition, the staff of the catering outlets go on a daily break, which lasts from 17:00 to 20:00.

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Where to Stay

There are many hotels and guesthouses in Catalonia. The cost of hotel accommodation will directly depend on how far it is from the main attractions. As an example, it will cost the most to spend a weekend in Barcelona, as well as the fashionable Costa Dorada resorts like Sitges, aimed at the same level of public that hangs out in St. Tropez. Have a lazy vacation on the beaches of the Costa Brava can be a little cheaper. In the rest of the housing in Catalonia is a classic principle: the farther from the sea, the cheaper.

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In Barcelona you can save a little money if you stay in hotels on the outskirts and in unpopular areas. However, even in them in high season the rates “jump” 2-3 times. As an example: in July it is almost impossible to find offers in local “triplets” cheaper than 80-90 EUR. Not cheap and in Girona, where in the season for a room in a two-star hotel ask from 65 EUR. If there is no way without excursions in Barcelona, and the budget of the trip is cracking at the seams, choose Badalona – a city in the neighborhood of the Catalan capital. Accommodation here will cost much cheaper, and you can get to Barcelona’s sights in 15 minutes.

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About half an hour’s drive from Barcelona is the town of Calella, where rental prices can also be considered attractive. A good alternative to Calella can be the resort of Santa Susanna, located 70 km from the Catalan capital. Hotels here are predominantly three-star, and the cost of accommodation is more democratic.

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Shopping

‘ Barcelona, more specifically to the area called the Central Zone, where most of the boutiques and showrooms are concentrated. For vintage and rare souvenirs you should go to the Gothic Quarter of the Catalan capital. Tourists in love with soccer paraphernalia should check out the stores of sports brands, one of which is open right at the Camp Nou stadium.

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Transportation

The Catalan provinces are connected by heavy public transportation. Rail travel is offered by FGC and Renfe, so if you want to go from Barcelona to Girona, buy a ticket at the station ticket offices, on the official websites of the carriers, as well as in a vending machine. Take into account the fact that both fast trains and suburban trains (labeled as “avant”) can run along the same routes, but tickets for the latter are always cheaper.

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Intercity travel by bus is more expensive than traveling by rail, with a less intensive schedule. In addition, most buses simply do not run on weekends. The most popular company engaged in passenger transportation is ALSA – it is its buses in Catalonia can be found more often than others.

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You can rent a car from local and international renters in any relatively large city of the autonomy. You will need an international driver’s license, passport and credit card. The driver’s age should be from 21 years, driving experience – from 2 years. Rental options are usually offered in two ways: with a deductible or without deductible and deposit, but with the condition of mandatory purchase of additional insurance.

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Road coverage in the region is quite decent. There are both free and paid sections, but in the peak of the bathing season kilometer-long traffic jams on both the first and the second will have to take as a given. When traveling through remote provincial places it is better to always have a reserve of fuel – distances between gas stations in Catalonia are appreciable. In addition, prepare for the need to spend on renting a place in a paid parking lot – with free parking in resorts and large cities like Barcelona big problems.

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How to get there

‘ Barcelona and Moscow are connected by Aeroflot, S7, Ural Airlines, and Nordwind flights. All of them land at El Prat airport, from which you can get to the city by metro, airbus or city bus number 46. Pobeda flies to Girona, but the flights are irregular, so it is better to check in advance on the official website of the carrier for the latest information.

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The option of rail travel to Catalonia is also possible, but is unpopular due to the length of the trip. If you still plan to travel by train, you will first have to get to Paris, Nice, Marseille, Milan or Zurich, from which there are passenger trains to Barcelona. The routes are not always direct, so there may be additional connections along the way.

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Calendar of low airfares