The Catalan capital makes for an enchanting autumn destination
The architect and urban planner, Le Corbusier, once sang the praises of Barcelona. “How much I love Barcelona,” he wrote. “An admirable city, a city full of life, intense, a port open to the past and future.”
Indeed, a stroll around Barcelona reveals both a dreamy history and modern outlook. The boulevards are bedecked with the works of Antoni Gaudí and Joan Miró. Unique restaurants push the boundaries of avant-garde cuisine. You’ll fall in love with the vibrant Catalan way of life most of all.
Since you’re in for a tremendous amount of walking, you’ll want to arrive refreshed. The best way to ensure that is aboard one of our Gulfstream airframes.
Global Air Charters will fly you directly to Barcelona El Prat Airport (LEBL), the most convenient entry point for charter travel. Relax with your feet up and a gin and tonic in hand. You’ll arrive ready to take Barcelona by the horns. Here’s what to see while you’re there:
See the Sights
As you amble the gridded streets of Barcelona, you’ll no doubt be drawn to the Sagrada Familia. Gaudí’s perpetually-under-construction cathedral draws strong emotions from onlookers and it’s an overwhelming site to behold. But you’d be remiss not to tour some of Gaudí’s other works.
Park Güell is a whimsical green space that offers stunning city views and vibrant mosaics. It’s a perfect encapsulation of Gaudí’s vision of Catalan modernism. Casa Batlló is another of his signature creations. Its detailed interior is almost more impressive than its undulating facade.
Spend an afternoon wandering around the narrow passageways in the Gothic Quarter, where every winding street ends at a charming plaza. Have a drink at one of the cafés on the Plaça Reial. Then wander south and have tapas at Bodega Biarritz.
When your feet need a break, consider chartering a luxury yacht for a day on the water. You can sail down the coast to Tarragona, or across the Balearic Sea for a stay in Mallorca or Ibiza.
Festivals and More
Autumn finds Barcelona at its most charming. The days are temperate enough for long strolls and the crowds sparse enough to enjoy them fully. It’s also the time when several festivals and events show off the best the city has to offer.
37th America’s Cup (August 22 to October 27, 2024). We’re already looking forward to the exciting sailing on offer all weekend just off the coast in Barcelona. Read our latest dispatch for our picks of the best hotels and vantage points for these thrilling regattas.
La Mercè Festival (September 20–24, 2024). Barcelona’s largest annual festival is a raucous celebration of Catalan culture. Five days of parades, fireworks, and concerts offer hundreds of opportunities to experience the town’s energy and artistry.
Festa Major de la Barceloneta (September 29, 2024): This lively celebration takes over the decorated streets of the seaside Barceloneta neighborhood. You’ll sip rum while watching traditional habanera dances and witness a procession of cannons that fire candy for the children.
Luxury Lodging
Barcelona has no shortage of five-star hotels, so you can tailor your accommodations to suit your itinerary. If it’s lounging on the sand you’re after, try the Hotel Arts Barcelona or the W Barcelona. These are two of the best hotels in town and they bookend the Barceloneta boardwalk, home to the city’s best beaches.
We also like the Mandarin Oriental, located on Passeig de Gràcia for its sweeping views, rooftop pool, and contemporary design. Its Michelin-starred restaurant, Moments, is helmed by one of Spain’s most famous chefs, Carme Ruscalleda. The menu is a whirlwind tour of Spanish heritage and Catalan flavors.
Private Jet to Barcelona
There’s so much to fall in love with in Barcelona, from its dramatic buildings to its passionate arts and easygoing vibe. Reserve your airframe today and we’ll ensure your journey to Barcelona is as enjoyable as your stay.