Museu Maritim de Barcelona (Maritime Museum), Barcelona

Barcelona's maritime museum is housed in the impressive Gothic Royal Shipyards ("Reials Drassanes"), a significant relic from the city's maritime empire that lasted well into the 18th century. After undergoing extensive renovations in 2016, the museum now features a new entrance from Plaça Portal de la Pau and large windows that flood the space with natural light, along with brand-new facilities throughout.

The 13.5-meter high hall now includes a metal sculpture of a whale and a vibrant painting by renowned artist Xavier Mariscal. Visitors can explore a range of fascinating exhibits, including a full-scale replica of Don Juan de Austria's flagship from the 16th century, traditional fishing vessels, antique navigation charts, dioramas depicting the Barcelona waterfront, and a life-sized replica of the Ictíneo I, one of the world's earliest submarines invented by Catalan polymath Narcís Monturiol in 1858.

With a regularly changing schedule of up to eleven temporary exhibitions, there is always something new to explore. Additionally, the museum provides a variety of activities, including navigation workshops and stargazing sessions, which can be booked through their website. As an added bonus, the museum entry ticket includes a short tour of the Santa Eulàlia – a beautiful vintage three-masted schooner docked at the picturesque Moll de la Fusta harbourside – and there is a delightful courtyard café where one can enjoy a peaceful hour or two.