Barcelona is one of Spain’s best-known cruise ports, set on the Mediterranean coast of Catalonia. The city combines beach, architecture, food and history within a fairly compact area for visitors with a day ashore. Many passengers head for La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona Cathedral or the waterfront. At the same time, Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and Park Güell are major draws farther from the port. The city has a strong Catalan identity, with its own language, traditions and food culture. Barcelona works well for first-time visitors, but planning helps because the main sights are spread across the city.