European holiday apartment experts Waytostay have created a fabulous infographic, detailing the delights awaiting you in two of the world’s finest holiday destinations: Barcelona and Sydney. Dramatic, energetic and proud cities both—each with a rich cultural past and a very exciting future—they offer unique yet delightful holiday experiences. While monumental architecture is a common trait that both cities share, that’s where the aesthetic similarities end. While much of Barcelona’s shoreline may have modernism, the majority of the city center, the ‘Eixample’, remains in its classical 19th and 20th century pattern, with the famed Gothic quarter retaining many medieval buildings and streets. The city is home to an incredible range of world heritage sites, including much of the most noted work of Antoni Gaudi, heralded architect and one of the city’s favorite sons. His opulent yet unfinished cathedral is world famous, but don’t miss the remarkable Casa Batllo—a riot of Mediterranean color, inspired by many varied schools of design. Sydney does things differently. A far younger city, albeit Australia’s oldest, its dramatic waterside skyline is iconic around the globe; not only for its dramatic scale and shape, but for its noted role in being one of the first capital cities to celebrate each New Year with spectacular fireworks! The Opera House, despite being just 42 years old, has become utterly synonymous not only with the city, but the whole of Australia. Of course, these towering structures overlook Sydney’s most truly unique feature—the harbor itself. Port Jackson, as it is officially known, was discovered by James Cook in 1770 and is the largest natural harbor in the world – the perfect destination for a wide variety of water sports and an incredible opportunity to explore its many hidden coves and beautiful beaches. If you’re a sports fan, Barcelona and Sydney have remarkable global pedigrees. Both have hosted the Olympic Games—Barcelona in 1992 and Sydney in 2000—and retain many of their totemic Olympic facilities, including their impressive stadiums. Arguably even more iconic, take a visit to Barcelona’s Camp Nou—home to one of the world’s most successful football teams and a huge draw for visitors from across the globe. If you’re keen to experience something a bit more local, try a spot of ‘Aussie Rules’ football—the Sydney Swans have a long and proud history in the game, and challenged for the title once more in 2014. Today, both cities welcome millions of tourists every year. Barcelona remains one of Europe’s most popular and densely populated cities, lending it that authentic Catalan vibrancy and atmosphere so evident in its winding medieval lanes, bustling cafés and fantastic Spanish food and drinks. Or check out Sydney’s best gourmet eateries. But if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, never fear. Both cities have incredible park spaces and easy access to surrounding countryside; cruise up the Parramatta River from the centre of Sydney, or visit Barcelona’s hilltop parks at Tibidabo or Montjuic. Wherever you choose, there’s plenty of peace to be found and nature to discover. From the bar to the beach, from the wildlife to the nightlife —explore below to find out more about these incredible cities. So the only question left is: what city is your winner? From the bar to the beach, from the wildlife to the nightlife, explore below to find out more about these incredible cities.
Featured photo credit: Moyan Breen via flickr.com
