Guide to Barcelona

Breakfast (esmorzar/desayuno) is generally a no-nonsense affair, taken at a bar on the way to work. Lunchtime (dinar/comida) is basically from 2.00 pm to 4.00 pm and is the main meal of the day. No local would contemplate chomping into dinner (sopar/cena) before 9.00 pm. That said, although restaurants tend to stay open until 1.00 am or so, most kitchens close by 11.30pm.

Barcelona's location on the shores of the Mediterranean means that it enjoys a warm, welcoming climate and pleasant temperatures all year round. Between the Barceloneta district and the River Besos, the city has over four kilometres of perfectly equipped beaches, which are frequented by its residents during most of the year. Barcelona also has an Olympic harbour which provides excellent conditions for water sports.

• Rainfall is often heavy, with around 1,000 mm falling each year. This helps to maintain the many green areas around the city.

• In any season of the year, Barcelona basks in the sun. You can eat in open-air restaurants or have a drink on the terraces, by the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.