Vilafranca del Penedès is a charming medium-sized city and capital of the Alt Penedès, located only 40 minutes by car from Barcelona. It has a rich architectural heritage and its history is linked to the cultivation of its vines, which give rise to many experiences when visiting the region. It is also a place that is animated all year round by numerous festivals with traditional accents and multiple opportunities for activities that promise to entertain the whole family. How can we not have in mind the Festa Major and the castellers who erect human towers of 6 to 10 floors? A strong image of Catalan identity. A journey to the heart of a city apart and which plunges its visitors into the heart of wine tourism.
The charms of a city with a long history
When you go to discover Vilafranca del Penedès, you must first take the time to stroll through the city and discover its exceptional architectural heritage. Starting by going to see the Basilica of Santa Maria, the first Gothic building that was built in Catalonia. We then head towards the cloister of Sant Francesc to see the last preserved element of the Franciscan convent, which dates back to the 13th century. Then we pass by the cemetery which is part of the Association of Remarkable Cemeteries of Europe (ASCE). This is understandable when you walk down the aisles and admire the tombs, mausoleums and their exceptional ornamental elements that date back to the romantic currents of the 19th century. You can also discover the works of great architects such as Antoni Pons or Santiago Güell. Two historic routes lead you to the heart of the city's history and heritage. This is the Medieval Road, which reminds us how powerful the city was in the 12th century. It passes through key places such as the Royal Palace, the Basilica and the Baltà Palace. The second route is called the Modernist Route and offers the discovery of about twenty buildings from Modernism, a trend that has also influenced the city's history.
Wine capital and mecca for wine tourism
Lovers of good wines should be happy when visiting Vilafranca del Penedès and its surroundings. Over the centuries, wine culture has become an important source of wealth for the region and there are many ways to practice wine tourism. There is of course the possibility of stopping in the city's cafés and getting advice from the best wines at the time of the aperitif. It is also necessary to visit the VINSEUM, the museum of wine culture in Catalonia, a place where the history of wine in the Penedès is better understood and how it has influenced local culture and traditions. A museum open to the whole family, with activities and activities also for children. For lovers of hiking and nature, it is good to know that several walks or bike rides can be made, in order to discover the surrounding vineyards as well as the natural areas of Alt Penedès. Depending on the season, the colours change and bring a unique charm to these landscapes, the good preservation of which testifies to the region's strong desire to commit itself to respect the environment and the establishment of sustainable tourism. The "Biosphere Responsible Tourism" certification was awarded to this destination as a reward. Finally, it is important not to forget to mention the visits to the cellars. Inside the city itself or outside in the middle of nature, they offer visitors the opportunity to participate in tastings and to better understand the manufacturing techniques and specificities of each vintage.
A festive territory all year round
You can go to any time of the year and come across a celebration, a fair, a traditional event that is the certainty of having a good time celebrating and entertaining. At the beginning of the year, the Feast of the Magi is held, followed by the St. Raymond's Day and a little later the Xató Festival in the middle of winter. In spring, the May Fairs and Festivals are an opportunity to appreciate the vitality of local businesses when summer is celebrated with music and wine tastings with Vijazz. At the end of August, the Fête patronale is the event not to be missed, when the squares and streets host dances, music and religious ceremonies. It is also on this occasion that we can experience the adventure of the "human tours", which play a leading role in the event. It is on the main square that dozens of people participate in what is one of the most important human tower buildings in history, a symbol that unity is strength. The castells, showcase of local folklore, are also inscribed on the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The year ends with the inevitable Coq Fair, where many dishes based on this poultry are offered, along with a generous programme of festive activities, just before Christmas. Everyone is happy, whether you like gastronomy, music, dancing.
Enjoy the gastronomy
Whether during some of the city's major events or during lunch or dinner in a restaurant, there is always a way to enjoy local cuisine and products. Discover the delicatessen with a glass of wine or cava, enjoy a roasted duck with pears or a good chicken, enjoy a fish dish from the nearby Garraf coast or a xató de Vilafranca salad, there are many possibilities to enjoy a pleasant gourmet getaway, based on locally grown food. Let us not forget to mention the fruits and in particular the peaches and plums grown on the banks of the many vineyards, as well as the few sweet sweets such as the catanies and cocas of Vilafranca.
Smart info
When? When? All year round. To be defined according to the major local festivals and its affinities. A spring and autumn getaway is an opportunity to enjoy the pleasant weather of a region with a Mediterranean climate and enjoy hiking in the vineyards.
Getting there. Vilafranca del Penedès is located 40 minutes from Barcelona
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Duration. A week to have time to enjoy the city, its architecture and to make some escapades in the surroundings on foot or by bike and discover the vineyards and cellars where you can have tastings.
Public. Lovers of beautiful heritage and nature will be able to enjoy beautiful historical walks in perfect harmony with the landscape. Wine enthusiasts will pass through the VINSEUM and will meet in the cellars and vineyards to enjoy wine tourism.
The pluses. Its medieval, gothic, romantic and modernist heritage.
Its natural environment preserved
Its vineyards.
Its events and major traditional festivals.
The less. The language barrier, however, is easily overcome.
Useful. To prepare your Catalan getaway as well as possible.
VILA FRANCA DEL PENEDÈS TOURISM OFFICE - More information on the website
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