Set amid the stunning natural beauty of the Mediterranean coast, Barcelona is at once Europe’s casual beachside metropolis and the sophisticated capital of industrious and design-conscious Catalonia. In recent years, the city has simultaneously seen a strong resurgence of Catalan culture and a cosmopolitan influx of immigrants. Its new diversity is perhaps best displayed in the Born’s wealth of outdoor cafes, delightful restaurants and independent boutiques. The city’s avant-garde has shifted into the formerly industrial Poblenou, while the grand Eixample is home to Gaudi-inspired architecture and the high-end establishments of great Catalan chefs. With photography and maps throughout, this edition contains updated information and venue options to aid in the exploration of this wonderful city.