Two young Americans Vicky (Rebbecca Hall) and Cristina (Scarlett Johnson) are going to Barcelona to spend a summer holiday. Vicky is sensible and intends to marry; Cristina is emotionally and look for sexual adventures. In Barcelona, both are involved in an unconventional relationship with Juan Antonio (Javier Bardem), a charismatic painter who still maintains a relationship with his ex-wife Maria Elena (Penelope Cruz).