Our month-long You Travel Ferrymead 2026 escorted tour of Spain and Portugal began in the vibrant city of Barcelona, where history, culture, and stunning architecture come together.

With local guides sharing their knowledge and passion for the city, we explored the remarkable works of Antoni Gaudí, including the breathtaking Sagrada Família. Still under construction more than 140 years after work began, it is one of the world's most extraordinary buildings. We also wandered through the atmospheric Gothic Quarter, where narrow cobbled streets, hidden squares, and ancient buildings reveal centuries of history.

A highlight was attending a traditional paella cooking class, where we learned the secrets behind Spain's most famous dish before enjoying the fruits of our labour. Barcelona also offered plenty of opportunities to embrace its lifestyle with tapas, rooftop bars, and a memorable sunset cruise along the Mediterranean coast, providing spectacular views of the city from the sea.

Barcelona has an incredible energy and charm, and although we packed a lot into our stay, it felt like we had only scratched the surface.