Among the many cities where students can learn Spanish in Spain, Barcelona is perhaps the most diverse. It has an eclectic mix of gothic architecture, modernism, Mediterranean beaches, stylish restaurants, art galleries, designer bars, nightclubs and bodegas (wine cellars). The list goes on, but while on a study trip, students are sure to sample this heady mix of extracurricular activities and entertainment and leave having experienced one of the most culture-rich cities in Europe.

IALC has accredited Spanish language schools in Barcelona with excellent transport links enabling students to discover the city with ease.

Barcelona has over one hundred and thirty hectares of pedestrian spaces which if put end to end would cover the equivalent of 260 football pitches. Given these distances, the Barcelona Metro underground system is a recommended and cost-effective way to travel through the city.

However despite this, Barcelona is best seen by foot, as the city has an abundance of places to see, many round the corner from another. For example, students can begin their tour at the popular Plaza Catalunya with its many department stores, and then take a walk down the famous Las Ramblas promenade which leads to the coastline and port.

Las Ramblas is well-known for the many stalls with caged birds and flowers on sale. It is often a good place to simply stop, take a seat and watch the world go by. Further down Las Ramblas, turn north and visit the magnificent gothic Cathedral. Many of the streets in this area are occupied by cosy bars and bodegas where glorious tapas and fine Rioja wine from the barrel are on offer.

Further afield, at the end of Las Ramblas, there is the working port, which was regenerated following the Olympic games of 1992. From here, take a walk up the coast on the wide promenade, alongside the city’s beaches and visit the Olympic village and stadium, which despite being nearly 20 years old, still looks fresh and modern.

Within the city there are countless historic sites to visit, including the bustling Mercat de la Boqueria food market and iconic image of Barcelona, Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia church, while football fans can book a tour of the legendary Nou Camp stadium, home of F.C. Barcelona.

So choose to learn Spanish in Barcelona and students can immerse themselves in this fine example of Catalonian culture. The only question is, will there be enough time outside of study hours to fit it all in!