ROBBIE WILLIAMS is in Barcelona with the message, “Let Me Entertain You” – but he’s not singing. Earlier this summer, he opened his art exhibition in the city more used to displaying masterpieces by Gaudi, Picasso and Dali. Here’s how to catch Robbie’s vibrant, weird and wonderful works while enjoying a short break in this cosmopolitan, colourful and creative Catalonian capital. WHY SHOULD I GO? TO see the craziest church ever, the stunning 18-tower Sagrada Familia, designed by Antoni Gaudi. He put his stamp on Barcelona and his architectural wonders are littered around this friendly city by the Med in northern Spain. Attractions include museums for all the family, galleries, parks, beaches, all-budget shopping, markets, a zoo, port and aquarium. There are regular concerts at Estadi Olimpic, where I saw Bruce Springsteen boss the stage for three hours, while football fans can tour FC Barcelona’s Camp Nou where there’s a “Messi Space”, dedicated to the footie great Lionel. Flamenco shows, operas, theatres and let’s not forget, tapas and sangria are all part of Barcelona’s captivating ch-arm. STREETS MADE FOR WALKING? YES, but to save time getting between major attractions, the hop-on, hop-off Bus Turistic is brilliant. Two routes cost £30 a day for an adult and £40 for two days, while kids are half price. Or, buy a multi-day metro pass which includes the trams and buses — I had three days for £22. Stroll down the famous La Rambla with cafes, restaurants and performers and through the narrow, cobbled streets and squares in the Gothic Quarter. Get panoramic views of the city from Park Guell, where the fabulous gardens are littered with colourful mosaics and sculptures — all down to that man Gaudi again. For more views, take the cable car up to Parc Montjuic, and wander through the castle dating to 1640. You can also rent an e-bike — there’s a 125-mile network of cycle lanes. ANYTHING FOR BUCKET LIST? AVOID queues and book a fun tour of Sagrada Familia, which after 142 years is still not finished. But our City Experiences’ guide has news, it will be completed by 2026 to celebrate the centenary of Gaudi’s death. The huge tower, dedicated to Jesus, will be completed with a 56ft cross that will make it the tallest cathedral in the world. Marvel at the colourful carvings from religious figures to animals and fruit, columns shaped like trees and spectacular stained-glass windows. Robbie Williams is in good company at the Moco museum, there’s a few works by Banksy and Andy Warhol. The singer’s Confessions of A Crowded Mind, featuring 17 originals about mental health, runs until November 20 (from €12.95 per adult and €7.95 per child, see mocomuseum.com). Add to the list the best dark chocolate ever from one of Torrons Vicens’ many confectionary shops dotted around the city. WHERE SHOULD I EAT? PLACA Reial in the Gothic quarter, close to La Rambla is fringed by restaurants and bars. And nearby is Aguelo Taberna serving fantastic paella, fish and steak. Sit overlooking the city at Les Cascades if visiting the National Art Museum or Olympic stadium and eat pizza, fried chicken, chips and free popcorn. Of course, you’ll find decent tapas joints everywhere. I FANCY A DRINK… YOU are in the right place for cheap coffee, beer and wine. “You’ve got to try my dad’s sangria. It’s the best,” said the welcoming waitress at Gaudi Gelats on Avda Gaudi. She was right, and at £5 for a jug, you can’t go wrong. Head for the lively George Payne Irish pub for a pint from £5 or sip a cocktail on a rooftop bar such as La Dolce Vitae at the Majestic Hotel. WHERE SHOULD I STAY? CENTRAL hotels are expensive, so opt for the modern and clean Travelodge Barcelona Fira, just a few stops away on the metro. The 83 rooms have all you need for a city break — comfy beds, good showers, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV and free wi-fi. The breakfast buffet costs just £9, there’s a 24-hour bar, lunch, dinner and snack service too and the staff are superbly friendly and helpful.
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