Around the world in 23 races: Barcelona

This weekend it's all about our passionate fans and creating a frenetic atmosphere in support of Fernando and Lance at the Spanish Grand Prix, which takes place just outside Barcelona. Here's how you can make the most out of a trip to the vibrant Catalan city, with our detailed guide from our Global Luxury Luggage Partner Globe-Trotter.

Barcelona is a city like no other with an irresistible spirit, stunning architecture, ground-breaking cuisine and much more. It's also a sports fan's dream with one of the world's greatest football teams, the Olympic Park and of course, Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. This weekend, we look at this glittering Catalan city by the sea.

Where can I find the world's coolest park?

Gaudi's unique sculptures, flamboyant fairytale houses, water gardens and a hilltop setting coalesce at Park Güell to form one of the world’s most distinctive and beloved parks. Eusebi Güell commissioned Gaudi to design a place for people to play and live in too, and his mosaic salamander and curving serpentine benches are rightly famous – as are the uniquely exuberant houses and planting terraces. The views are wonderful too: the Modernisme district unfurls in front of you until your eye reaches the cool, calm sea in the distance.

Which beaches should I go to?

Surprisingly, prior to the 1990s, Barcelona barely had any beaches to speak of. There were some gravel slopes where the polluted sea washed ashore and hardy swimmers jumped in. Fast forward to today and the difference could not be more stark. From the 1992 Olympics onwards, sand has been imported next to a cleaned-up sea to create a series of brilliant beaches. In fact, we think these might be the best inner-city beaches in the world. Easily accessible and firm favourites, you can soak up the sun, play volleyball, surf and swim on Barceloneta, the busiest and most famous, or Bogatell, our pick, which has plenty of room to sunbathe or party.

Where can I sample the best cocktails?

Barcelona has long been hailed as a gastronomic capital, but in recent years, its cocktail scene has truly flourished. Amongst the city's exceptional bars, Sips stands out with its seamless fusion of vintage elegance and contemporary flair. Recognised internationally for its excellence, Sips has proudly secured a third place in the renowned World's 50 Best Bars list. At the helm of this establishment, Marc Alvarez and Simone Caporale have crafted a reputation for their innovative and daring libations. The artful presentation is matched only by the exquisite flavours that await.

Where can I see the world's most famous unfinished icon?

Barcelona's most famous landmark, Sagrada Família, isn't even finished. And this is part of the appeal for the millions who have come to wonder when and if this great Gaudi cathedral ever will be. There are many more years of work to go, but it has been a century of work to get to this stage. Even the embellished towers with their colours and naturalistic shapes are enough to show you the wonders of Gaudi's design brain, and the majesty of this grand and possibly unfinishable building.

Where can I taste the best vegetarian dishes in town?

Barcelona is a cosmopolitan world city where vegans and vegetarians will be well catered for. Chef Xavier Pellicer is one of the city's new breed of chefs who are putting vegetables front and centre at his own eponymous restaurant and at the Barcelona EDITION's Bar Veraz, which is known for slinging some of the best small plates of food in town.

Where to swim with the greatest view of Barcelona?

One image was forever lodged in the minds of those who watched the 1992 Olympics: the iconic sight of divers plunging into the waters of the Montjuïc Municipal Pool with the jaw-dropping skyline of Barcelona behind them. The best Olympic backdrop ever was made possible by the pool's location near the top of the Montjuïc Mountain and its open side facing the city which preserves views for spectators and swimmers. The pool actually has a longer history which stretches back to the 1929 World Exposition in Barcelona and it's big too, with space for 4,000 swimming fans.

Where can I get up close to an F1 car?

If you can get to Barcelona's most famous street, the captivating Las Ramblas, during the week of the Spanish Grand Prix, be sure to visit the AMF1 x Kimoa pop-up store on Rambla de Mar. Located a stone's throw away from the iconic, tree-lined, Las Ramblas boulevard, you'll find a replica AMF1 car and have the opportunity to get kitted out in the latest teamwear and accessories in preparation for the race weekend.

Take a five-minute stroll from the store to Plaça de l'Odissea during race week and you'll find IL PITSTOP – the immersive F1 experience created by super-premium Italian beer brand, Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0%. Designed to bring the sport closer to fans, the experience immerses you in the exhilarating atmosphere of the AMF1 garage, complete with its own viewing gallery, team radio, and the chance to get up close to a replica AMF1 car while sipping on a crisp and refreshing glass of Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0%.

Our partnership with Globe-Trotter celebrates a shared commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and heritage, bringing together the timeless style of Globe-Trotter's handcrafted luggage and the cutting-edge design and performance of the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One® Team.

I / AM membership

The ultimate fan experience.

Get closer to the team with unparalleled access, behind-the-scenes insights and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and enjoy exclusive competitions, rewards, offers and more.

JOIN NOW

Around the world in 23 races: Barcelona