Barcelona, it really is a beautiful place. With a real mixture of cultures and stunning architecture, it’s ideal for a romantic getaway or some fun times with your mates. I have explored this city before but decided to have a day there as we had a friend’s wedding nearby.

So with our gang of friends(we were all staying in a villa together near Sitgue), we headed in on the train to Barcelona.

I have used Marco Polo guide books before when Gary and I had a recent visit to the Tower of London so it was great to take their Barcelona addition with us and see how helpful it was around the city.

The first thing I noticed about the guide book was that it had plenty of very useful maps. It’s easy to use your Google maps on your mobile (and Barcelona has free Wifi for everyone), but I prefer using a real map as I found it easier to plot out a route and check your position regularly. It wasn’t a huge map either so you can easily store it in your pocket or hold it in your hand folded, to review the area you are currently in.

We started off spotting all the Gaudi buildings that littered the streets. It maybe an obvious thing to do but I loved Gary seeing these dark and strange looking tourists spots and the guide book had great information on them and what was near by.

We did have an unfortunate moment when a Thunderstorm came down on us so we headed to cafe Juan in a Million and tucked in to lunch. As soon as our food arrived(which tasted AMAZING) the rain subsided so we headed out to the Gothic area near Las Ramblas as soon as we had finished eating. With the Gothic area, you really have to be careful of your personal belongings when you go around these little streets as there are gangs of thieves that pretend to be tourists to pick people’s pockets. We didn’t witness anyone doing this while we we there but it’s best to be aware that they do try their luck! But aside from that, the Gothic area is a great place to walk around. With small alleyways, tiny shops and the Picasso museum, it’s a chic, rustic place with many artists and creatives showcasing their work and giving Barcelona a cool atmosphere.

When it comes to shopping in Barcelona, there are a few places you can go. The Gothic area has small, independent shops where you could get something unique and handmade but the main streets of Barcelona are normally where all the chains are like Mango, Zara and H&M. I bought a gorgeous velvet, embroidered jacket from Zara (I wore here) for €79 but as the pound is strong at present, I saved myself quite a bit of money. I also bought a silver ring as it’s cheaper to buy real silver in europe and it has a lovely pink stone in it.  If you want to know more about where the designers and shopping centres are, Marco Polo has information on where to shop and in whatever areas you want to explore.

To finish off our day we had a walk back east to see La Sagrada Familia. I have seen it before but it still has a massive impact when it appears among the other buildings.  It really is breath-taking and even though I hadn’t seen it for over 10 years, it still looks utterly spectacular.  It has come along way since I last came to the city and if you ever go to Barcelona, it is a complete must see for all.

Marco Polo really did help us have a great time on our trip. With tips on how to get around and places to stroll by if you fancy a walk, their guides are perfect if you are going to a city that you know nothing about.  They really helped us feel at home in a foreign place and for only £6.99 it’s a bargain for any budding traveler and holiday maker.

Marco Polo and Bunnipunch are offering some of you the chance to WIN a guide book for your chosen destination!!

To enter simply comment below with your NAME, EMAIL and what guidebook you would like(London, New York, Paris etc) and you could get it!

Winners will be announced on October 15th!!