Spanish Language & Culture

The stylish capital of Spain’s Catalonia region is world-renowned for its contemporary art and striking architecture.

Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain, after Madrid, but feels decidedly different. It has its own unique personality and is known more for rock music than flamenco dancing. Whimsical buildings and cultural curiosities make every day sightseeing far-from-ordinary. Youthful energy fills busy boulevards lined with cafes, shops, and street performers. Beach volleyball matches bring a California vibe to the Catalan coast.  

Tapas are everywhere, all day long. Cakes and both sweet and savory pastries fill bakery window displays. Mouth-watering churros with mugs of thick chocolate for dipping are found at authentic churrerías. Food markets from the world-famous La Boqueria to smaller neighborhood stands sell patatas bravas, ham croquettes, pizza slices and more. Juicy melons, plums and citrus fruits are bountiful in summer. The fresh-squeezed orange juice is the best you’ll ever have!

Lovers of modern art and architecture could spend every day exploring galleries, museums and historic buildings. The Picasso Museum offers the full package: Its famous collection is housed inside a cluster of five medieval mansions. The city’s majestic Gothic cathedral, decorated with gargoyles, dates from the 14th century and is the focal point for the entire Catalonian capital.

Football (soccer) fans should head to Camp Nou, FC Barcelona club’s home stadium. As the largest football stadium in Europe – and the third biggest in the world – it draws die-hards to its sold-out games and thousands of visitors to its Stadium and Museum Tour. 

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Barcelona.