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Barcelona is the one destination on this list where the beach is a bonus rather than the point — and that is exactly its appeal. Gaudí in the morning, Barceloneta in the afternoon, dinner somewhere in the Gothic Quarter.
The beaches
Barceloneta is the closest and the busiest. Head north-east to Bogatell and Mar Bella for wider sand and a calmer crowd — both are still on the metro.
When to go
May, June and September. July and August are hot and extremely busy, and the city is at its least comfortable.
Where to stay
Eixample for space and architecture. El Born for atmosphere and restaurants. Barceloneta only if the beach is genuinely the priority.