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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Isabella Noble

From Barcelona to Bilbao: the insider guide to five classic Spanish city breaks

Spain, Europe, Valencia, City of Arts and Science, Calatrava
The futuristic Calatrava-designed City of Arts and Science building in Valencia. Photograph: Prisma by Dukas Presseagentur GmbH/Alamy

Barcelona
With its fabulous fusion of Modernista masterpieces, multi-layered history, plaza-dotted barris (neighbourhoods) and one of Spain’s most thrilling gastronomic scenes, the Catalan city remains one of Spain’s most irresistible destinations.

Venture beyond the busy Ciutat Vella (old city) to buzzy emerging neighbourhoods, such as Sant Antoni and Poblenou, which both have a raft of creative cafes, concept boutiques, independent restaurants, vermouth bars and lively markets. In Sant Antoni, head to Italian Benzina, brunchy Federal and vermouth-loving Bar Calders, along with the revamped 19th-century market, which has inspired other restoration projects across town.

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