Barcelona barely has time to take down the bunting between its rollicking festivals when there isn't an all-night fiesta happening on the street, there's more likely a party on the beach (only ten minutes away) and never any shortage of action in its clubs and bars. Gentler pursuits are also myriad: the city's museums have got it all covered, from Picasso and Miró to perfume and an outstanding aquarium. Its galleries are among the most avant-garde in Europe, and its history is written large in the churches and perfectly preserved medieval alleyways of the Barri Gotic. Suggested day-trips to coast, country, and city are also included.