Programs Catalonia
Experiences | Activities
Tips
Catalonia is an autonomous Spanish community subdivided into four provinces: Barcelona; Girona; Lleida And Tarragona. The region holds most of the extinct Territory of Catalonia, the rest of the region now belonging to the south of France. The community is bordered by France and Andorra to the north, and the Mediterranean Sea to the east, with a coastline of 580 km. This region has everything and is extremely rich in natural beauties, great artists and high gastronomy. It is also the region that houses the main Gaudi works of art.
Must visit & Major attractions:
Catalonia also has several other points of interest, from medieval monasteries such as Montserrat and Poblet to the modern Dali Theater-Museum, founded by the famous surrealist artist in his hometown of Figueres.
You shouldn't leave without first visiting:
Lleida: It is the second most important Catalan city after Barcelona and ahead of Girona, and Tarragona. It is 158 km from Barcelona. The city is a gateway to the beautiful mountains located on the border with France, where we can enjoy the natural parks and lush landscapes.
Girona: It is a city cut by the river Onyar, on one side the old city on the other a modern city. On the old side, narrow and charming alleys for you to wander aimlessly and without haste. At the edge of the river, graceful houses and, for the most part, with the Catalonia flag hanging. Looks like you're in a romantic movie. Coffee tables strategically located, inviting you for a pause on the tour. On the other side, the modernity of our time. This mix between old and modern is quite common in Spanish cities. For those who travel, it is a must-see.
Tarragona: It is located about 100 km southwest of Barcelona. It is bathed by the Mediterranean Sea. It has a great historical-cultural tradition; it is a tourist destination, both for its beaches and its historical and artistic heritage. The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Tarraco.
Gastronomy
Catalan gastronomy has been made since the Middle Ages and it is distinguished by the diversity of sea and mountain products. Catalonia's haute cuisine has representatives who are among the best in the world. A good example of this is Chef Ferran Adrià from the unforgettable El Bulli restaurant. The best pleasures are in simplicity. You cannot visit Catalonia and not eat the famous bread with Catalan tomatoes. It is a typical recipe of Catalonian cuisine which consists of spreading a raw and ripe tomato on a slice of bread (toasted or not), preferably of the one known as Pa de Pàges.
Other Catalan delights are:
Butifarra: pork sausage typical of Catalonia, plus pepper and spices. There are two types: the black butifarra, made with lean meats, grease, pig blood, and the white butifarra, prepared only with lean meats and pignoli. Both can be grilled or be prepared with beans;
Fuet: very fine salami, typical of Catalonia, made with pork meat, guts, salt, sugar, spices, and food preservatives. Can be eaten with bread and cheese;
Truffles: truffles are famous in Catalonia, which, in the simplest form, is eaten with bread, olive oil and a pinch of salt. It is also eaten with meats, poultry, pates, salads or even be cooked with wine. This is used in the regions' high cuisine.
Main events and festivities
San Fermin Festival, Navarra / Pamplona - July
La Tomatina, Buñol - August
Castellet Festival, Tarragona - April
Calçotadas Festival- Catalonia - February
Sitges Carnival
Flower Festival, Girona - May
Bullfights, Pamplona - July