Barcelona

Spain · Mediterranean · mega-city · Catalonia

Europe's fifth biggest city. Barcelona is home to about 5.7 million people when you count the whole city and surrounding areas, making it one of the largest urban zones in all of Europe.

Right on the Mediterranean. The city sits on the northeastern coast of Spain between two rivers called the Llobregat and Besòs, which flow into the Mediterranean Sea.

Capital of Catalonia. Barcelona is the largest city in Catalonia, which is an autonomous community (a region with its own government) within Spain.

Mountains nearby. The Serra de Collserola mountain range rises to the west of the city, creating a natural boundary and beautiful backdrop.

Spain's second biggest. Only Madrid has more people than Barcelona among Spanish cities, making it the second-most populous municipality in the entire country.