Style City: Barcelona

Barcelona boasts a unique heritage of cultural achievement, political and military independence and artistic refinement. In comparison to places like Paris and London, it can seem pocket-sized, but it is a multi-faceted gem: small, accessible, coastal with a unique architectural heritage as well as substantial sections that are tourist-friendly without being blandly over-commercialized. Visitors are immediately drawn to the Ciutat Vell which encompasses the area around the cathedral, the Barri Gotic, the Ribera, Barcelonetta and the Raval. From these tiny streets to the wide Eixample and beyond it is evident that this is a city that takes design seriously, with new talent on show everywhere in small galleries and combination showroom/shop/ateliers. Fantastically designed bars and restaurants are emerging to cater to the design-conscious youth, and maintain Barcelona's reputation as a world capital of design. This "StyleCity" volume guides you to the total city experience: where to sleep, eat, drink, shop, retreat, explore, or just hang out in stimulating surroundings. It selects all the special places where locals as well as travellers will find a vibrant urban experience, and is accompanied by concise, informed texts and easy-to-read maps.