The iconic Catalan capital of Barcelona has been a staple port on many of Holland America Line’s Mediterranean itineraries. The famous city is packed with centuries of iconic art and architecture, as Gaudí and Picasso both called it home.

Now Holland America Line guests will be able to experience the “Head and Hearth of Catalonia” in a whole new way with our 2018 Signature Experiences. The special two-night Barcelona experience begins as guests enjoy a private tour of a Barcelona architectural treasure, Casa Batlló.

Casa Battló is a masterpiece of design in the heart of the capital of Catalonia.

Designed and built by Antoni Gaudí between 1904 and 1906, Casa Batlló is a masterpiece of shape, color and light, and a marvel of ornamental design. While navigating the unique Casa Batlló, guests will see Gaudí’s famed Catalan Modernist architectural style. The ground floor, in particular, has unusual tracery, irregular oval windows and flowing sculpted stone work. There are few straight lines, and much of the façade is decorated with a colorful mosaic made of broken ceramic tiles (trencadís). The roof is arched and was likened to the back of a dragon or dinosaur.

Feel like you’re on top of a dragon at Casa Batlló.

In addition to experiencing the magic of Casa Batlló, guests will be able to feast on tapas and drinks as they enjoy festive Flamenco fusion music provided by Son de Cajon.

Dance Flamenco in beautiful Barcelona.

Guests will be left saying ¡Olé!

Holland America Line’s new Signature Experiences are specially curated encounters offered before select cruises. In Europe, the tours depart from five fascinating cities: Amsterdam, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Rome and Venice. Each experience is a Holland America Line exclusive and includes immersive cultural tours, entertainment, luxurious two-night hotel accommodations and complimentary transfers from the airport to the hotel and to the ship.

Book a suite on select sailings and the Signature Experience is a complimentary perk. However, space is limited and reservations are required for all participants.