On this half-day tour you’ll be met at the location of your choice and head out by private transportation to see Barcelona’s most distinctive sites. A specialized guide will provide a complete picture of Barcelona, as you travel on a route that takes in the highlights of the city. First, you’ll admire the Barcelona skyline from Montjuic Mountain. At the Mirador de l'Alcalde, a terrace where you can take in the most spectacular panoramic views over the old quarter and Barcelona coastline, you’ll see how the diverse architectural styles of the city mix together so well. Also, while you’re on the mountain your guide will show you important buildings such as the those related to the ‘92 Olympics. See the remodeled Olympic Stadium, originally dating from 1929, and the Palau Sant Jordi of Arata Isozaki. You’ll also find buildings designed for the International Exhibition of 1929, such as the Plaça Espanya, influenced by St. Peter's Square in the Vatican, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, and the National Palace. Head down the mountain to the waterfront along the Mediterranean Sea. Take in the new World Trade Center, the Gothic Drassanes, and the Columbus Monument near the iconic La Rambla. End this portion of the tour at Port Vell. Climb Via Laietana, with the Old Town on your left. With your guide, you’ll have the opportunity to explore parts of the Roman and medieval quarters. To appreciate the contrasts of Barcelona, you’ll visit Passeig de Gracia, the street featuring the most distinctive examples of Catalan architecture. Here you’ll find the most striking facades of private Modernist architecture, exemplified by La Pedrera by Antoni Gaudí. You’ll also be able to admire examples of Modernist houses such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló, Casa Lleó Morera, and Casa Ametller. Finally, the tour takes you to the Eixample district, an extension of the Old Town that was designed for the orderly growth of the city. The regular streets, the revolutionary form of its blocks, and the variety of architectural styles are prevalent right up to the point you reach the iconic cathedral, La Sagrada Familia. Your knowledgeable guide will tell you about the history of the Cathedral and will provide the keys to understanding the mystical symbolism of this important structure.