7 Night Western Mediterranean Cruise | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Palma De Mallorca, Spain, La Seu Cathedral — La Seu cathedral in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Leaving from

Barcelona, Spain

Onboard

Harmony of the Seas

Day	Port
1	Barcelona, Spain Departs at 5:00 PM
2	Palma De Mallorca, Spain From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
3	Navigazione Day at sea
4	Florence / Pisa (La Spezia), Italy From 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
5	Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy From 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
6	Naples / Capri, Italy From 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
7	Navigazione Day at sea
8	Barcelona, Spain Arrives at 5:00 AM
	*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.

from

Sailing from

Your ship Harmony of the Seas

Your ship

Harmony of the Seas

DECK DEFYING, BOREDOM DENYING

Harmony of the Seas® is loaded with onboard thrills, like the tallest slide at sea, the Ultimate Abyss℠, and brain-bending puzzles in Escape The Rubicon. Not to mention three stories of twisting, turning thrills on The Perfect Storm℠ racing waterslides, and fun by the gallon for little adventurers at Splashaway Bay℠.

Symphony of the Seas Perfect Storm Boy Entering Slide — Perfect Storm Boy Entering Slide

The Perfect Storm℠

Up for adventure? Put on your brave face and get ready to race through twists, turns and next-level thrills on the boldest slides at sea. No matter which ship you sail on, The Perfect Storm℠ waterslides take excitement off the charts.

Ultimate Abyss℠

Step to the edge of the Ultimate Abyss℠. Peer into the darkness. Listen to the call of the unknown. Are you brave enough to take the plunge on the tallest slide at sea?

Splashaway Bay℠

The fun comes in gallons. This bigger, better kids aqua park features slides, water cannons, waterfalls and more. And when the drench bucket gets full, everyone gets wet.

Escape the Rubicon

You're locked inside the Rubicon with a team of collaborators. The only thing standing between you and the other side of the door is your ability to solve a brain-bending collection of puzzles together. Let the adventure begin…

AN ADVENTURE IN EVERY BITE

Sit down to garden views and artfully-presented American fare at 150 Central Park. Take a trip down the rabbit hole at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Or dig into family-style favorites at Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver. And be sure to try a cocktail crafted in binary at the Bionic Bar®.

Wonderland

Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine is all about pushing the culinary envelope. Dishes are designed to tantalize your taste buds and present a visual feast. Find crispy crab cones topped with fluffy avocado mousse, gazpacho served with pepper spheres and bread foam, and dreamy desserts that will take your breath away. Pair your meal with cocktails described as “magical” elixirs crafted to deliver full-sensory experiences.

Jamie's Italian Spinach Rotolo — QN, Quantum, AN, Anthem, Jamie''s Italian, dynamic dining, cuisine, culinary image, Spinach Ricotta Rotolo, cheese, pasta, restaurant, dish

Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver

At Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver, sit down to Tuscan-inspired cuisine crafted by one of Britain’s most famous chefs. Seasonal ingredients meet authentic recipes in family-style dishes that range from homemade pastas and classic Italian entrees, to contemporary creations infused with rustic influences.

150 Central Park

Each dish at 150 Central Park spotlights locally sourced ingredients harvested at the peak of their season. Think palate-pleasing apps, elevated classic entrees, and a range of desserts you should definitely save room for. And if you’re craving a craft cocktail or a glass of wine, you’re guaranteed to find something delicious to toast with on the drink list.

Main Dining Room

In the Main Dining Room, you can experience flavors that take you from Jamaica to Jaipur, a rotating menu of delicious dishes always offering something unexpected. A multi-level restaurant that in the morning is the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty brunch paired with refreshing mimosas, at dinnertime transforms into a world class dining experience with a menu that invites you to taste your way around the world course by course.

AHH-INDUCING ENTERTAINMENT

The world's best extreme-sports athletes push the limits of mind-blowing stunts in The Fine Line, and a time-traveler finds romance on ice in the Jules Verne-inspired show 1887. You'll dance your socks off in the '50s-themed original Harmony High.

Columbus

Set sail on a hilarious adventure with Christopher’s luckless distant cousin Marvin, on a madcap voyage to the Caribbean.

Bionic Bar^®

At Bionic Bar®, meet two robotic bartenders who know how to shake, stir, and mix up your night out. With moves as fluid as the Pimm’s in your cup, these mecha mixologists can create an almost endless combination of cocktails, from classic cosmos to custom-crafted sips designed by you.

The Fine Line

The world's best extreme-sports athletes push the limits on high-flying feats, mind-blowing stunts and awe-inspiring acrobatics in The Fine Line.

Theme Nights

From bell-bottoms to togas, themed nights and parties onboard transcend time.

Day 1: Barcelona, Spain

Day 1

Barcelona

Spain

It’s easy to see why Barcelona is the most-visited city in Spain. As the capital of the country’s Catalonia region, this cityscape’s cultural mosaic pieces together a 2,000-year-old hodgepodge of sun-drenched beaches, cutting edge architecture, and a world-renowned dining and drinking scene. Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí left his modernist handprint all over the city, while medieval treasures linger in historic Gothic Quarter squares. Get lost in the whimsical gardens of Park Güell or savor a chef-led Catalan cooking class. Browse art collections dedicated to Picasso and Miro— or ride a cable car to the top of Montjuïc Hill, relishing citywide views along the way.

Spain Barcelona La Sagrada Familia Interior — La Sagrada Familia Interior Colorful

SKY HIGH DELIGHTS

Get an up-close glimpse of La Sagrada Família, a cathedral masterwork designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Marvel at its sky-piercing spires and then step inside to admire intricate mosaics, Montjuïc stone pillars and the Nativity façade. You can even climb to the tippy-top of the spires for panoramic city views.

Barcelona, Spain La Rambla Shops — Street view of La Rambla in Barcelona, Spain, with shops lining the street

IN THE MIX

Take a stroll along La Rambla’s pedestrian boulevard to experience the city’s pure essence. Souvenir shops, street artists, flower stalls, sidewalk cafes and Catalan folk sardana dancers set a lively scene. Its marvelous centerpiece, La Catedral, dates from the 1200s— and its tower delivers sweeping views of medieval Barcelona.

Barcelona, Spain Barceloneta Beach — Barceloneta Beach at sunset, with a view of the W Hotel in Barcelona, Spain

SHOPPING

You could spend hours checking out the markets of Barcelona for high-quality leatherwear, jewelry, old books and unique housewares. Passeig de Gràcia and Barcelona Shopping Line are two popular retail promenades— and the Gothic Quarter is home to dozens of family-owned shops that sell textiles, stationery, decorative ceramic tiles and earthenware kitchenware.

Spain Barcelona Barceloneta Beach — Barceloneta Beach at Sunset

SEAS THE DAY

With seven beaches spanning more than two miles of Mediterranean coastline, Barcelona’s harborfront is known for some of the world’s best sun-seeking and on-the-sea adventures. Lounge along the shore, kayak deep blue waters— or charter a fishing trip for the chance to reel in tuna, swordfish or Mediterranean spearfish.

Barcelona, Spain Gothic Cathedral — The gothic Barcelona Cathedral at night, in Barcelona Spain

Spain Barcelona Sparkling Cava Wine — Couple Enjoying the Local Sparkling Cava Wine

LOCAL CUISINE

Barcelona has mastered the art of eating. Many restaurants serve up creative nueva cocina española, while waterfront spots dish out seafood paella and multi-course lunch menus include a glass of sparkling cava wine. For a taste of Catalan cooking, try pa amb tomàquet (tomato-topped bread). Or nibble on Spanish tapas (bite-sized appetizers) around the bar like a local, with house-made vermouth in hand.

Barcelona, Spain Park Guell — View of the city from Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain

Day 2: Palma De Mallorca, Spain

Day 2

Palma De Mallorca

Spain

The Spanish island of Mallorca offers towering mountains and dramatic cliffs rising over clear, blue water — but its hidden gem is Palma de Mallorca, the island's capital and largest city, where you'll find quaint historic streets, Gothic castles and gastronomic delights. Cruise to Palma de Mallorca and check out one-of-a-kind Palma Cathedral: The 14th-century Gothic spires of exterior contrast the modernist interior designed by in the early 1900s by Gaudi. See the circular courtyard and Arab-inspired arches of Castell de Bellver, and take in the fresh scent of the miles of pine forest that surround it. Or rent bikes and pedal east to Palma Beach, where you can soak in the sun on the white sands and clear waves.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain, La Seu Cathedral and Almudaina castle — La Seu cathedral and Almudaina castle

Castles and Cathedrals

Palma de Mallorca's historic places look like something out of "Game of Thrones." Whether you traipse through the courtyard of 14th-century Bellver Castle or say your prayers inside Gothic Palma Cathedral, Palma de Mallorca can transport you back to medieval times. Your can also see the city's unique Arab influence dating back to the 10th-century Moorish conquest at spots like the Arab Baths.

Insider tip

If you're more interested in ocean time than historic sites, book a boat tour to see the coastline of Mallorca from the sunlit waves.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain, Cuevas del Drach — The Cuevas del Drach in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Explore a Dragon's Lair

Head to Porto Cristo on the east side of the island, where you'll find the Cuevas del Drach — the dragon caves. While no actual dragons have been spotted here, the stalactites and stalagmites of this ancient underground cave make it easy to imagine. You can even take a violin-serenaded boat ride on the cave's underground lake during your cruise.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain, Porte de Soller — View of the bay at Porte de Soller in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Palma De Mallorca, Spain, Straw bag market — A straw bag market in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Shopping

Palma's premier shopping is to be had in the Passeig de Born neighborhood. Shop here for upscale brands like Mulberry and Zara. Then, head to Jaume III and Sant Miquel streets for boutiques specializing in fine local goods: Choose a necklace or earrings made with world-famous Mallorcan pearls, try on a pair of handmaid Menorquina sandals, or marvel at handicrafts like colorful pottery and traditional straw bags.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain, Cala Llombards beach — People enjoying Cala Llombards beach in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Get Your Beach On

It's no surprise that Palma de Mallorca is home to some of the world's best beaches — what's astonishing is just how clear blue the water is at Cala Llombards, or how the warm, golden sands of Playa El Arenal will make you wish you never had to leave. No wonder so many red and yellow umbrellas dot the sands here.

Insider tip

Hours of operation for the Palma cathedral vary by season so be sure to check before you arrive.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain, Tombet dish — A bowl of tombet, a traditional vegetable dish

Local Cuisine

Mallorca is technically part of Spain, but Palma de Mallorca's cuisine is a world unto itself. Savor tombet, a vegetarian stew with sweet potatoes and carrots that's Mallorca's take on ratatouille. Cruise to Palma de Mallorca to sample the eclectic coca mallorquina, a kind of crunchy flatbread pizza with an olive oil-rich crust topped with roasted red peppers.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain, Bellver Castle — Bellver Castle in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Day 3: Navigazione

Day 3

Cruising

At Sea

Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠

Grab your bravest friend and challenge them to a test of speed. The ride of your life awaits on twin racers Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠ — part of The Perfect Storm℠, the boldest waterslides at sea. As you speed through, long, translucent stretches offer sea views as exhilarating as the ride itself.

Harmony of the Seas Splashaway Bay Girl Sliding and Landing on Water — Splashaway Bay Girl Sliding and Landing on Water

Zip Line

Strap in and go for a ride over nine decks above the Boardwalk® on the Zip Line. Don't look down.

FlowRider^®

Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.

Symphony of the Seas Ultimate Abyss — Woman Enjoying Sliding Down Ultimate Abyss

Man Arrive on the top of the Rock Wall — Man Climbing Down the Rock Wall

Rock Climbing Wall

Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.

Day 4: Florence / Pisa, Italy

Day 4

Florence / Pisa

La Spezia, Italy

The northern Italian port city of La Spezia, on the border of Liguria and Tuscany, offers an ideal gateway to two of the country's most famous cities: Pisa and Florence. Just one hour by car or train will bring you to Pisa, where you can check out the white-stone arches of the city's famous leaning tower and its sister-structure, the Pisa Cathedral. Or spend your day in Florence, about two hours away by train: Climb to the top of the famous Duomo ("dome"), the nickname for the Italian Gothic Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral, for stunning 360-degree views of the city. Cruise to Florence to stroll through the San Lorenzo market with an espresso in hand and take in the smells of local spices and truffles as you people-watch.

Florence - Pisa, Italy Marble Statue — A marble statue with the Leaning Tower of Pisa in the background

Lean Into Adventure

Climb the 251 steps up the spectacular Leaning Tower or Campanile (bell tower) on the Field of Miracles in Pisa. The 56-meter-high tower took almost 200 years to build, but it was already leaning when it was unveiled in 1372. Access is limited to 45 people at a time. Book online in advance to save a space — many tourists flock here.

Insider tip

You can skip the lines at many of Florence's museums by buying tickets online before your visit.

Florence - Pisa, Italy Uffizi Gallery — The Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy

Museum of the Masters

The Galleria degli Uffizi is one of Italy's most famous and star-studded art museums. Cruise to Florence to admire the mind-blowing masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance, including works by Sandro Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci, as well as German, Flemish, Dutch and French masters. Just remember it's closed on Mondays.

Florence - Pisa, Italy Leaning Tower — The Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy

Florence - Pisa, Italy Leather bags — Leather bags for sale in Florence, Italy

Shopping

Shop for souvenirs and jewelry at the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence. Mercato Centrale is the locals' favorite for food shopping. Buy or taste wine and truffles in Enoteca Obsequium during your Florence cruise. The best olive oils, platters and soaps can be bought from La Bottega dell'Olio. In Pisa, go Italian fashion shopping in Borgo Stretto for luxury items and Corso Italia for more affordable leather bags and shoes.

Florence - Pisa, Italy Duomo Close Up — Close up of the Duomo Santa Maria Del Fiore toweing over Florence, Italy

Day at the Duomo

In Florence, you can't miss the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral, more commonly called the Duomo in honor of its red-tiled cupola, or dome. The city's most iconic landmark, dating back to 1296, the Duomo's pink, white and green marble facade is a must-take photo. Head inside to admire the 44 stained-glass windows and Vasari's magnificent fresco of the Last Judgment.

Insider tip

Always carry euros. Some restaurants and shops operate on a cash-only basis.

Florence - Pisa, Italy Fettuccine Pasta — Fettuccine pasta served in a white bowl

Local Cuisine

Tuscany has its own unique cuisine and pasta dishes. Try fresh pecorino (sheep's milk cheese), fazzoletti (pasta filled with ricotta and spinach), papardelle (broad noodles), ribollita (a variation on minestrone) or zuppe di cavolo (cabbage soup). What about some pan ficato (fig cake) or castagnaccio (chestnut-flour cake with nuts) for dessert?

Florence - Pisa, Italy Ponte Vecchio — Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence, Italy

Day 5: Rome, Italy

Day 5

Rome

Civitavecchia, Italy

With 28 centuries of celebrated history, Rome holds the edge when it comes to unrivaled adventures. The city that sparked the world’s largest empire is very much alive today with a jumble of ancient ruins, world-renowned art and vivacious street culture. Here you can live la dolce vita, recalling the glory days of Ancient Rome and twirling forks full of pasta in a trattoria. Ride past centuries-old basilicas in a three-wheeled Ape Calessino, or stand in awe of paintings by Italian masters at Villa Borghese. Whether it’s Vatican City’s spiritual allure, Trastevere’s backstreet charms, or the Colosseum’s embattled legacy— The Eternal City endures with endless adventures.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Pantheon — The Pantheon in Rome, Italy

ANCIENT AND AMAZING

Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill— and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.

Insider tip

The train ride between Civitavecchia and Rome is approximately 80 minutes each way.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Statues — Statues in the Vatican Museum

SACRED SPACES

Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Trevi Fountain — The Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Colosseum Vatican Models — Minitature models of the Colosseum and Vatican

SHOPPING

Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighborhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market— and La Rinascente, the first department store.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Piazza Navona — A fountain in Piazza Navona in Italy

ADVENTURE SQUARED

Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisan stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.

Insider tip

Conservative attire (no tank tops or shorts) is required when visiting Rome’s religious sites.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Pizza and pasta — Pizza, pasta, and antipasta on a table in Rome

LOCAL CUISINE

Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Vatican — The Vatican dome in Italy

Day 6: Naples / Capri, Italy

Day 6

Naples / Capri

Italy

With a skyline defined by towering Mount Vesuvis, Naples is a bustling Italian city brimming with beauty. Experience its rich neoclassical architecture at sites like Gesu Nuovo Church, with its lavish interior adorned with detailed frescoes, statues and gold inlay. Go even deeper into history at the San Gennaro catacombs, where Naples' first bishops were buried in the second century A.D. Walk along the Miglio Sacro ("Holy Mile") and people-watch your way through the cafes and shops of the Sanita district with a zuccherato (sweetened espresso) in hand. Jump onboard a Naples cruise and take the short bus ride to the base of Mount Vesuvius — it's an easy 20- to 30-minute hike will take you to the summit — and tour the ruins of Pompeii afterward.

Naples - Capri, Italy, Catacombs of San Gennaro — The Catacombs of San Gennaro in Italy

Go Underground

Interested in getting up close and personal with Naples' past residents? Head underground to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro. These historic burial places are the oldest in the city and the largest in all of Southern Italy. Spend some time wandering around the different rooms to see how the rooms where the wealthy and poor were buried.

Insider tip

You won't be able to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro without a guided tour, so be sure to book yours well in advanced.

Naples - Capri, Italy, Margherita pizza — A margherita pizza in Naples, Italy

Local Cuisine

Neopolitan-style pizza is Naples culinary gem. Grab a seat at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, which has been serving up pizza since 1870, and order a slice of simple, classic margherita, topped with fresh basil, tomato sauce and local mozzarella di fiore. Cruise to Naples and head to Friggitoria Vomero for the town's best arancini — gooey, fried spheres of rice and cheese — or panzarotti, a mini-calzone stuffed with mozzarella, tomato and other ingredients like spinach or ham.

Naples - Capri, Italy, San Francesco di Paola church — San Francesco di Paola church in Naples, Italy

Naples - Capri, Italy, Gesu Nuovo interior — The interior of the Gesu Nuovo in Italy

Church Bells Ring

Naples' churches are a great way to tour its architectural treasures, and most of them are concentrated in the old town center. Check out San Domenico Maggiore, with its impressive gold-gilded ceiling and interior. Inside Sansevero Chapel, you'll find a number of impressive Baroque statues and classical art. And don't miss the beautiful frescoes and peaceful vibe of Gesu Nuovo Church during your Capri cruise.

Insider tip

Wear comfortable shoes; you'll be doing a lot of walking over cobblestones while in the city.

Naples - Capri, Italy, Traditional pots — Traditional pots at a shop in Italy

Shopping

Head to Via Toledo, the longest shopping street in Naples, which offers small boutiques and a huge department store. Continue down the road to Galleria Umberto I, a beautiful shopping gallery for some high-end souvenirs such as silk scarves and leather shoes to take back home.

Day 7: Navigazione

Day 7

Cruising

At Sea

AN, Anthem of the Seas, Wonderland restaurant, lime dish, culinary,

Chops Grille℠

For more than a decade, the chefs at Chops Grille have specialized in serving up quality, hand-cut meat. Dinner at this hallmark Royal Caribbean specialty restaurant goes far beyond the typical steakhouse experience, though, with reimagined classics like succulent Maine lobster, gruyere cheese tater tots, white truffle-scented mushroom soup, and of course, expertly prepared prime beef.

Chef's Table

Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.

Sabor

Enjoy traditional dishes with a fresh spin at Sabor Modern Mexican — like carne asada burritos, tacos, ceviches and our homemade guacamole, served right in the molcajete where the fresh avocados are smashed. Plus some favorite sips prepared tableside, including premium tequila flights and margaritas.

Coastal Kitchen

Exclusively for suite guests, Coastal Kitchen fuses Mediterranean influences with farm-fresh flavors from California. The menu is filled with Pacific Coast favorites and Med-inspired entrees.

Day 8: Barcelona, Spain

Day 8

Barcelona

Spain

It’s easy to see why Barcelona is the most-visited city in Spain. As the capital of the country’s Catalonia region, this cityscape’s cultural mosaic pieces together a 2,000-year-old hodgepodge of sun-drenched beaches, cutting edge architecture, and a world-renowned dining and drinking scene. Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí left his modernist handprint all over the city, while medieval treasures linger in historic Gothic Quarter squares. Get lost in the whimsical gardens of Park Güell or savor a chef-led Catalan cooking class. Browse art collections dedicated to Picasso and Miro— or ride a cable car to the top of Montjuïc Hill, relishing citywide views along the way.

SKY HIGH DELIGHTS

Get an up-close glimpse of La Sagrada Família, a cathedral masterwork designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Marvel at its sky-piercing spires and then step inside to admire intricate mosaics, Montjuïc stone pillars and the Nativity façade. You can even climb to the tippy-top of the spires for panoramic city views.

IN THE MIX

Take a stroll along La Rambla’s pedestrian boulevard to experience the city’s pure essence. Souvenir shops, street artists, flower stalls, sidewalk cafes and Catalan folk sardana dancers set a lively scene. Its marvelous centerpiece, La Catedral, dates from the 1200s— and its tower delivers sweeping views of medieval Barcelona.

SHOPPING

You could spend hours checking out the markets of Barcelona for high-quality leatherwear, jewelry, old books and unique housewares. Passeig de Gràcia and Barcelona Shopping Line are two popular retail promenades— and the Gothic Quarter is home to dozens of family-owned shops that sell textiles, stationery, decorative ceramic tiles and earthenware kitchenware.

SEAS THE DAY

With seven beaches spanning more than two miles of Mediterranean coastline, Barcelona’s harborfront is known for some of the world’s best sun-seeking and on-the-sea adventures. Lounge along the shore, kayak deep blue waters— or charter a fishing trip for the chance to reel in tuna, swordfish or Mediterranean spearfish.

LOCAL CUISINE

Barcelona has mastered the art of eating. Many restaurants serve up creative nueva cocina española, while waterfront spots dish out seafood paella and multi-course lunch menus include a glass of sparkling cava wine. For a taste of Catalan cooking, try pa amb tomàquet (tomato-topped bread). Or nibble on Spanish tapas (bite-sized appetizers) around the bar like a local, with house-made vermouth in hand.