Metro: Ciutadella-Vila Olímpica (L4)

The hot climate and the long, sandy beaches are integral parts of Barcelona's free-wheeling and cosmopolitan character. For those of you who long to get away from the noise and sensations of a city for a few hours, then the beach is the place for you. The city beach is surprisingly clean, but extremely busy. There are plenty of other more intimate beaches further along the coast, but the city beach is fine for late starters or those who don't want to travel too far.