Peret once sang, “Barcelona is powerful, Barcelona has power.” And he was right. The city blends the energy of its neighbourhoods with the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle, and these experiences are proof of just that.

Barcelona has the ability to attract and captivate locals and visitors alike, welcoming travellers from all over the world who soon stop feeling like tourists and begin to feel at home. Barcelona is watching the sun rise over the Mediterranean, enjoying a vermouth in one of Gràcia’s squares, being dazzled by the beauty of the Sagrada Família and ending the day with panoramic views across the city. Barcelona is much more than a collection of landmarks: it is a way of walking, eating and enjoying life without being in too much of a hurry.

A thoroughfare, a meeting point between neighbourhoods, a popular gathering place for locals and the starting point for many visitors, Plaça de Catalunya is constantly buzzing with activity and perfectly reflects Barcelona’s energy.

From here, La Rambla stretches all the way to the Columbus Monument. Along its approximately 1,200-metre route, set aside some time to browse the stalls at Mercat de la Boqueria, stop outside the Gran Teatre del Liceu, admire Joan Miró’s mosaic and visit the Font de Canaletes. Before planning your visit, it is worth checking the opening times of any attractions you would like to see.

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia seems to appear almost out of nowhere as you approach it along Carrer dels Arcs. Gothic and imposing, it is one of those buildings that makes you stop in your tracks before you have even stepped inside.

After visiting the cathedral, lose yourself among the streets of the Gothic Quarter, take in the peaceful atmosphere of Plaça de Sant Felip Neri and walk beneath the Pont del Bisbe on Carrer del Bisbe. A cultural visit to the cathedral provides access to several different areas, although opening times may vary at weekends and during religious celebrations.

A few hours in the sunshine and a refreshing swim can be the perfect plan when sea conditions and beach flags allow. However, Barceloneta is about much more than its sandy beach.

Take some time to explore this former fishing neighbourhood, with its narrow, straight streets, historic buildings, washing hanging from balconies and traditional local bars. Round off your walk by trying one of Barceloneta’s famous bombas or strolling along the seafront with the Mediterranean always close by.

In this neighbourhood, you may know when you arrived, but not necessarily when you will leave. Perhaps it is because of its winding streets, independent shops, galleries and workshops, or its distinctive blend of history, culture and everyday life.

Here you can visit El Born. Museu d’Història de Barcelona, housed beneath the structure of the former market and built over an important archaeological site. Nearby stands the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, one of the finest examples of Catalan Gothic architecture. It is impressive when viewed from the square, while stepping inside invites a moment of silence.

Genius transformed into buildings filled with flowing lines, organic shapes and unexpected colours. Antoni Gaudí’s legacy is captivating, leaving you eager for another dose of imagination, creativity and beauty.

Your route might begin at the Sagrada Família, continue past the façade of Casa Batlló and take you up to the rooftop of La Pedrera before ending at Park Güell, home to the dragon staircase, the Hypostyle Room and Plaça de la Natura.

Due to high demand and limited visitor numbers at some attractions, booking your tickets in advance through their official websites is highly recommended.

Where can you find it? On the café terraces filling the squares of Gràcia, over a Sunday vermouth near Plaça d’Osca in Sants or while strolling along Rambla del Poblenou and the surrounding streets.

You will also find it in local markets, wine bars, bakeries and independent shops where neighbours still greet one another by name. The best way to discover this side of Barcelona is to choose a neighbourhood, wander without following a strict route and see what you find.

Passionate about Picasso? The city has a museum dedicated to the artist, offering a particularly valuable insight into his formative years. Would you prefer a broad overview of Catalan art from the Romanesque period to the 20th century? The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, on Montjuïc, is the place for you.

Interested in contemporary art? Head to the MACBA and the CCCB, two cultural institutions located very close to one another in the Raval neighbourhood. Each museum has its own calendar, temporary exhibitions and closing days, so it is worth checking the programme before planning your visit.

It will not be difficult: Barcelona is filled with Modernista architecture and design. You can see it in the flower-shaped paving tiles found on many of the city’s pavements, in the entrance halls and façades of Eixample buildings and in architectural landmarks that turn an ordinary walk into a fascinating route.

Alongside Gaudí’s work, visit the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau, the Palau de la Música Catalana or Casa Amatller. Along the way, you will also discover other leading figures in Catalan architecture, including Lluís Domènech i Montaner and Josep Puig i Cadafalch.

Els 4 Gats first opened its doors in 1897 and continues to welcome diners in one of the city’s most iconic Modernista venues, serving a menu inspired by Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine.

For something sweet, Pastisseria Mauri has upheld its artisan tradition on Rambla de Catalunya since 1929. To finish the day with a classic cocktail, head to Boadas, which has been serving drinks just off La Rambla since 1933. As opening times and entry arrangements may vary, particularly on public holidays, it is advisable to check before visiting.

The experience begins aboard the Cuca de Llum, the funicular connecting Plaça del Doctor Andreu with the summit of Tibidabo. As you climb, Barcelona gradually unfolds beneath you.

At the top, it is surprising to see how the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor and one of Europe’s oldest amusement parks share the same setting in perfect harmony. Enjoy the rides, explore the panoramic area or simply spend some time spotting all the places where you created happy memories during your trip.

Opening days and times vary depending on the season and may be affected by the weather, so check the official calendar before travelling up.

After exploring the city, there is nothing better than unwinding in a well-located hotel. Sercotel Rosellón is known for its iconic terrace and exceptional views of the Sagrada Família; Sercotel Caspe, in the heart of Eixample, provides an ideal base for getting around Barcelona, with many of the city’s main attractions within easy reach; and Sercotel Ámister Art Hotel, close to Barcelona Sants railway station, is an especially convenient choice for guests arriving by train or looking to combine comfort, art and excellent transport links.