One of Europe’s most-visited destinations, cosmopolitan Barcelona boasts an array of cultural, recreational, and entertainment offerings. It is the second-largest city in the country and is also the capital of Catalonia, one of the 17 autonomous communities that make up Spain. As such, there are two official languages spoken here: Catalan, generally spoken in all of Catalonia, and Castilian Spanish.

Located on the country’s northeastern coast, the city of 1.5 million is truly a crossroads—between Europe and the Iberian Peninsula, Roman and Moorish, modern and ancient. Both a dip in the Mediterranean and a ski weekend in the Pyrenees are only a short trip away. Within the city, a lively street scene, sophisticated shopping venues, and fabulous nightlife mix with art and history almost everywhere you look. From the dark Gothic appeal of the Old City to the colors of Antoni Gaudi’s art nouveau architecture all over town, you’ll be amazed at the constant allure of Barcelona.

Three Good Reasons to Study Spanish in Barcelona   Barcelona is Spain's cultural center with a wide variety of art museums, trendy shops, incredible restaurants, historical monuments, and a fabulous nightlife.             As the second-largest city in Spain, Barcelona offers a cosmopolitan and European atmosphere.             The school is located in the very center of Barcelona, just a 5-minute walk from the Las Ramblas pedestrian district.

Barcelona Weather Barcelona enjoys a pleasant climate year-round. Average temps range from 50ºF-55ºF (10ºC-13ºC) Dec.- March, 64ºF-77º F (18ºC-25ºC) May-Aug, and 61ºF-72º F (16ºC- 22ºC) Sept.-Nov. Because it is a coastal city, Barcelona has relatively high humidity, at about 70%. When rainfall occurs, it is generally heavy.

The school offers a number of activities and excursions to help you practice your Spanish and learn more about the culture and people around you. Some of these options are described below.

Guided Tour of Barcelona In order to help familiarize you with your new surroundings, the school offers a free city tour. A tour guide will show you all the main highlights of this magnificent city and explain their historical significance. You will also learn where the more practical places are, like markets and banks. This is a great way to quickly feel at home and learn how to navigate daily life in a different culture.

Films and Documentaries The school often shows a film or documentary about Spanish culture. The film list includes Belle Epoche, Open Your Eyes, and All About My Mother. Sit back and relax with your friends while improving your listening skills!.

Salsa Lessons While you’re in Spain, get into the groove and meet your fellow classmates at salsa lessons provided by the school.

Picasso Museum Visitors to this extensive collection of Picasso’s works enjoy the building itself just as much as the artwork. Five adjoining medieval palaces in Barcelona’s Barrio Gotico house more than 3,500 works of art. The collection includes two of Picasso’s first major works, “The First Communion” and “Science and Charity.”

Tapas Tour Take a tour of Barcelona and enjoy its gastronomical delights! Try a variety of different tapas while you explore the city and spend time with your international friends.

Figueras This is the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. You will tour the city and learn about its history. The main attraction, of course, is the museum dedicated to the famous artist, showing a collection of some of his finest works.

Miro Museum This museum of modern art honors Joan Miro, a painter, sculptor, and ceramist born in Barcelona. Miro experimented with a variety of artistic styles, leaning most closely towards Surrealism. He received many awards during his life, and is considered to be one of Barcelona’s great treasures.

Full-Day Excursions The school offers excursions to a variety of nearby locations. Enjoy the ancient cathedral and Moorish mosque of Girona, a visit to the wine region and cave cellars, or a full-day trip to Madrid or Sevilla.