National Geographic traveler, Damien Simonis

Celebrating Barcelona's stronghold on architecture and art, this completely updated and revised guide to the city makes sure you don't miss a thing--from the intricately carved edifices of its Gothic quarter; Gaudi's moderniste structures; and the seminal surrealist works of Picasso and Miro. Special features include three-dimensional drawings (including one of the fabulous Sagrada Familia Cathedral) and guided tours (including a walk through Roman Barcelona and a drive through the Mediterranean-lapped Costa Brava), as well as in-depth sidebars that detail such topics as Barcelona's Jewish community, the city's markets, and what life as a local medieval monk was like. Special features are sprinkled throughout on such helpful topics as securing tickets to a bullfight, learning to windsurf on Barcelona's beaches, the ritual of spring onion barbeques, where to take Catalan or flamenco classes, and taking a suisso; and Insider Tips from National Geographic and local experts show you where the locals go.

A hefty Travelwise section details how to get there and how to get around, with author-picked hotels and restaurants. Aimed at active travelers who want authentic, enriching, cultural experiences and expert advice from a trustworthy source, National Geographic Travelers provide ways for people to experience a place rather than just visit, and give the true feel of each destination not easily found online.