Literally meaning ‘expansion,’ the elegant and central Eixample district of Barcelona is a veritable showcase of architectural Modernista masterpieces (Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, and Casa Batilo; Casa Lleo Morera; Casa Amatlier), upscale boutiques, great dining, and wild nightlife. The heart of the buzzing gay club scene is here -- its nickname is even ‘Gaixample’ -- but it has a more laid-back atmosphere than San Francisco’s Castro. You’ll find lively nightlife here, from trendy hipster bars to gilded lounges. Defined by its tree-lined boulevards and Romanesque buildings, the area is full of bustling markets, friendly locals and a wealth of famous attractions, including La Pedrera, the Fundacio Antoni Taples, the Egipci Museum, and the Sala Foundation. If you’re looking to explore Barcelona’s architecture, elegant dining, and nightlife scene, this is the perfect location. El Prat Airport: 20 minutes by car without traffic or 50 minutes by public transit Sants Station: 15 minutes by public transit Plaça Catalunya: 15 minutes by public transit Sagrada Família: 15 minutes by public transit Tivoli Theatre: 15 minute walk Montjuic: 25 minute walk