This guide is one of the most substantial I have read and contains just about everything you need to know about the region of Catalonia and the coastal area of the Costa Brava.There is a long and detailed section on Barcelona which includes town maps, recommendations on where to eat, drink and stay and of course information on the myriad monuments and museums. You will soon realise that a day in Barcelona is not nearly enough to see it all.
Similarly, you will soon realise that to appreciate all of Catalonia and the Costa Brava, you'll need more than a two week holiday.
Culture and history are covered in this guide, and the eat-drink-sleep recommendations include a useful price ranking and useful 'I've been there' hints and tips.
After reading this book you will feel inspired to see more of the region: both inland and the coast. It's not a pocket-sized book though, so you may need to jot down some ideas and make a 'not to be missed' list as you read it.