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Barcelona – such a beautiful horizon, Barcelona – like a jewel in the sun. No, not a travel agent’s description but the words of the late, great Freddie Mercury on his operatic hit duet, coincidentally entitled Barcelona. And Freddie doesn’t lie.

Unsurprisingly the Catalan city on the Med is one of the most popular city break destinations for British travellers. Part of the allure is sporting. This is the home of the world’s greatest football club after all, with one of the most spectacular stadiums. Even if you are a soccerphobe who thinks Messi is one of the Mr Men, Barcelona is a city that can’t fail to impress.

Today’s Big Deal offers a tempting city break, with daily direct flights from Glasgow Prestwick and accommodation in a stylish, modern apartment hotel close to the Camp Nou stadium.

Catalan allure

The Big Deal, exclusive to 5pm customers, flies you to Barcelona, a historic city on the Mediterranean with great nightlife, world-class cultural attractions and attractive beaches

The Big Deal offers return flights with Ryanair from Glasgow Prestwick, and three nights accommodation based on two sharing a standard double or twin room in the Aparthotel Atenea. Continental buffet breakfast is included each morning.

With a generous 10 kg cabin bag allowance on your flight, you won’t need to concern yourself with putting any bags in the hold.

Flight dates

The city breaks are for three nights, flying out daily from Glasgow Prestwick. Check the fine print for exclusions.

Comfortable apartments

The 4-star Aparthotel Atenea is located in a tranquil neighbourhood handy for the football stadium and also within easy reach of attractions such as the Palau de la Musica Catalana and Gaudi’s fabulous confections, La Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo. The Les Corts metro station is a three-minute walk away.

Facilities are ideal for city-break visitors looking for a little more space. Air-conditioned rooms feature kitchens and private bathrooms, with deep bathtubs and complimentary toiletries. Amenities include free WiFi and digital TV.

Continental buffet breakfast is included in the deal and the hotel restaurant is also open for lunch and evening meals. There is a lounge bar in the hotel for those relaxing nightcaps after a hard day exploring.

Barcelona attractions

A stroll down the Rambla is the ideal introduction to Barcelona’s appeal, a broad avenue lined with shops, market stalls and colourful street life. Soak up the atmosphere and decide what you want from your stay.

History is a short walk away in the medieval streets and buildings of the Barri Gotic, an atmospheric and ancient quarter of the city that still contains some of Barcelona’s finest bars and cafes.

Also close to the Rambla is the Boqueria market, a glorious assembly of Mediterranean produce, gourmet treats and Spanish spices, the perfect place for a little gift shopping.

After ticking off the Gaudi edifices, take some time to absorb the majesty of the Basilica of Santa Maria Del Mar, dating from the 14th century.

A more modern temple of worship is the Camp Nou. If you can grab a ticket for a Barcelona home match, take the opportunity to see some of the world’s greats (and Sergio Busquets) in action. If not, a stadium tour gets you close to pitchside and gives you a taste of the club’s rich history.

When the sun shines, join the locals on Barceloneta beach, a great place to hang out, soak up some rays and enjoy a little local cava in one of the beach bars.

Guest reviews

The Aparthotel Atenea has picked up plenty of positive feedback on TripAdvisor. Recent reviews include the following:

‘Facilities in the spacious room are very good as stated on hotel’s website. Ensuite is very well kept with plenty of towels and toiletries. Self-service breakfast offers continental and hot options. Reception is very helpful.’

‘Highly recommended for all types of traveller. Very good and very friendly staff, very nice and clean room, very well connected with the metro station and other local transportation.’

Mediterranean getaway

Whether it’s the beaches, the superb food, stylish shopping or, yes, the football that is at the heart of Barcelona’s appeal, today’s Big Deal allows you to choose a stay in this evocative city that suits your preferences.

Make your own homage to Catalonia with this exciting city break.