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Explore Barcelona

Plan Your Trip to Barcelona: Best of Barcelona Tourism

Travel Advice

Essential barcelona.

Where to stay

Where to eat

The perfect three days in Barcelona

All about Gaudi

Browse collections

There’s art everywhere.

Slow down and sip the sangria

Dip into the Mediterranean Sea

If you're feeling fancy-ish

Quick-trip museums

Make a day of it

Chill out in nature

Off-the-beaten-path Barcelona

Go beyond Gaudi

For the history buff

More Spanish cultural capitals

Barcelona Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing barcelona.

sophieloumarren

Do not be afraid to get lost in the winding back streets! Ditch your tourist map!

Barcelona is deeply proud of its Catalan heritage. I once went to the tourism office to ask for information about Spain and was roundly chastised as I was in Catalunya. I never made that mistake again!

It is a good idea to learn a few basic Spanish words for politeness and you will garner more respect and pleasant service.

Food, Art, Beach, Streets...Barcelona is all-inclusive.

Barcelona is a city rich with history, beautiful architecture, a cool beach culture, friendly people and some great food.

Barcelona is a buzzing city that's so easy to fall in love with.

What is the best way to get there?

Barcelona is mainly served by the Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport International Airport, but can also be reached by transport links from other regional airports, including Girona, Reus, and Lleida-Alguaire.

Barcelona Sants Station is the city's main railway station for national and international destinations in France.

Estació d'autobusos Barcelona Nord is Barcelona's main bus station operating services to other Spanish cities and cities throughout Europe.

Do I need a visa?

Spain is part of the Schengen Area with many other European countries. This means tourists from certain countries don’t require a visa for trips less than 90 days — as long as your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date. Find more information about the Schengen Visa and what countries are exempt  here.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer (June to August) and fall (September to November):  Summer is fiesta time in Barcelona, when the city hosts some of Europe’s biggest music festivals, including Sonar and Primavera Sound. Average temperatures in summer have a high of 82°F (28°C) and a low of 71°F (22°C).

While soaring temperatures send summer visitors to the beach, the cooler months of fall are ideal for exploring Barcelona’s colorful neighborhoods. In November, the scent of roasting chestnuts fills the air during the Catalan festival of La Castanyada. Average temperatures in fall have a high of 68°F (20°C) and a low of 60°F (16°C).

There are a number of companies in Barcelona that offer bike rental or bike tours including Barcelona Biking, AJO Bike, and Barcelona E-Bike.

The Barcelona Metro, run by TMB and FGC, operates 12 lines which run from about 5 a.m. to midnight Sunday to Thursday, 5 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday, and 24 hours on Saturday.

TMB operates a fleet of more than 1,000 buses that operate more than 100 routes. Most services begin between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. and end between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. Barcelona also operates a night-bus service (Nit Bus) which serves most of the city and its suburban area. Services begin after 11 p.m. and end between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m.

Barcelona’s taxis are easily spotted with their black and yellow livery. They can be caught from one of many taxi stands, hailed on the street, or booked via telephone.

The ridesharing company Cabify is available in Barcelona on your smartphone.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Central European Standard Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Spain is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. Wall outlets typically accommodate plugs with two round pins.

What is the currency?

Are atms readily accessible, are credit cards widely accepted, is it easy to find a bank, how much do i tip.

Tipping isn't obligatory, but people usually leave 5% if they are satisfied with the service.

Are there local customs I should know?

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Spaniards usually greet friends and strangers alike with a kiss on both cheeks, although two males rarely do this.

Spaniards take great pride in their appearance so dress elegantly, even for casual occasions.

Visiting churches

Visiting churches as a tourist during Mass and other worship services is considered disrespectful.

Personal space and eye contact

Spaniards are known to stand very close while talking and speak a lot with their hands — don’t mimic them and don’t step away. Eye contact in Spain is also very important.

Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will go a long way as a sign of respect.

• H10 Madison
• Serras Barcelona
• Seventy Barcelona
• W Barcelona
• Bodega Biarritz 1881 Tapas bar
• Cervecería Catalana
• Zenith Brunch & Cocktails
• Restaurant Ciudad Condal
• Basílica de la Sagrada Familia
• Casa Batlló
• Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic)
• Mercat de la Boqueria
• Park Guell & Sagrada Familia Tour with Skip the Line Tickets
• Barcelona in 1 Day: Sagrada Familia, Park Guell,Old Town & Pickup
• Montserrat Half-Day Tour with Tapas and Gourmet Wines
• Girona & Costa Brava Small-Group Tour with Pickup from Barcelona
• Fast Track Sagrada Familia Guided Tour

10 things to know before visiting Barcelona

Aug 7, 2023 • 6 min read

In the peak of summer Barcelona's city beaches get busy, read on for where to go instead © Westend61 / Getty Images

Barcelona is the kind of city that casts a spell over its visitors. Enticed by the epic architecture and promise of deep-running history set in the context of a coastal Mediterranean getaway, millions of travelers arrive every year to see the charms of Barcelona for themselves. 

Despite this popularity, it’s often misunderstood – especially if you fail to escape the typical tourist pitfalls. For me, though, it’s a city that always called me back and a place where I felt the most at home, but I admit that there are many missteps travelers can make in a city this big, popular and culturally complicated.

Today, the spotlight often shines on Barcelona for its overtourism problem, and local resentment makes itself known through aggressive graffiti near popular attractions. In some cases, this has even forced city officials to restrict access to once off-the-grid spots like the Carmel Bunkers , simply because the crowds have gotten out of control. In my years of living in Barcelona, I’ve learned how to avoid shoulder-to-shoulder crowds and enjoy the city as a local would. Here’s everything you should know before you come to Barcelona, from the essential safety tips to the cultural landscape.

1. You can’t see the whole city in a day

Barcelona may not be the biggest city you’ve ever been to, but it is massive when you consider all the ways you can entertain yourself. Because there is so much to see, the ideal number of days for a trip to Barcelona is between two and five. That should be enough to cover the must-sees, but if you want to explore more in the surrounding area, 10 days would give you additional time to plan day trips either to nearby cava wineries, the Costa Brava , or even as far north as the Pyrenees for a day of skiing.

2. There will be lots of tourists

There’s no use denying that overtourism is an issue in Barcelona, but you can plan to avoid the crowds by traveling during the off-season or trying to get an early start on the day before the cruise ships pull in and the streets fill up with visitors.

You can also book many tickets in advance so you don’t have to wait in the long lines, but in some places, you won’t be able to avoid the crowds. Try to space out the big attractions in your itinerary so you have some breathing room in between, ie, don’t go from the Sagrada Familia to Casa Batllò .

3. Avoid traveling during big events

Barcelona draws big acts from around the world every summer as a mainstay on the music festival circuit. But unless you’ve got your ticket to Primavera Sound or Sonar already, you may want to avoid traveling during these weekends or any other time when large trade fairs, like the Mobile World Congress, take over the city. It’s already an expensive city, but accommodation rates skyrocket when a big influx of visitors is on its way.

4. Know what cultural events to look for

If you want to have an authentic cultural experience in Barcelona, you can look for local events that embrace Catalan traditions like the parades of giants, human tower gatherings, Sardana dance circles and the Correfoc fire parades. You may stumble across them if you’re traveling over a holiday like Holy Week, but if you want to secure your odds, make a trip in September when the city celebrates La Mercè, one of Barcelona’s patron Saints, with a week of festivities that include cultural events and free concerts.

5. There’s more than one Rambla

Everyone will tell you La Rambla is a must-do, but for me, walking the Rambla feels a lot like walking through Times Square back at home – crowded, touristy, and to be avoided whenever possible. Thankfully, the city has more than one Rambla, where you can actually enjoy the slow strolling these city features were built for. In the center, you can venture down the Rambla del Raval with its famous Botero cat sculpture, or go a little bit out of the way to walk the Rambla del Poblenou from Diagonal all the way down to the beach.

6. The beaches get better the further away from the city center you get

Barceloneta is the most famous beach in Barcelona, and the adjacent neighborhood is worth checking out for its narrow streets and great tapas spots, but travel further down if you actually want to lay out on the beach. Barceloneta can get very crowded and noisy with tourists, so walk or cab your way past Port Olímpic to Platja de la Mar Bella . Because all the beaches in Barcelona are artificial, built for the 1992 Olympic games, the sand isn’t the nicest, to be frank. If you can travel outside the city to Sitges or up the Costa Brava , you’ll find more tranquil and scenic beaches.

7. Get to know Catalan culture

An autonomous region of Spain , the subject of Catalan independence is still a touch-and-go, but you should be respectful to the locals by learning about all the distinct characteristics that give Catalans their cultural identity. Show a little curiosity, and locals will be more than happy to tell you all about their favorite traditions, from wintertime onion barbecues to the cheeky caganer ("the pooper") a beloved Christmas icon.

8. Catalan is not a dialect of Spanish

If you’re looking for the quickest way to offend a Catalan, this is the one. Almost everyone in Barcelona can speak Catalan and Spanish, and the tourism circuit is well set up for English-speaking clientele, so you should have no problem getting around. However, you can make a good impression on your hosts by learning a few words. Some are similar to Spanish and French, like “ Hola ” and “ Merci ” for “Hello” and” Thank you,” but you can also try “ Bon día ” for “Good morning” and “ Adéu ” for “Goodbye.”

9. Pickpockets are a real issue

Just about everyone in Barcelona has a first or second-hand pickpocketing story, including me (they slipped two credit cards out of my wallet while I was working on my laptop in a crowded cafe). You should never let your guard down, especially when riding the metro or walking down crowded tourist areas like La Rambla. Keep your phone put away whenever you’re not using it, and never leave it sitting out on the table if you’re dining outside.

1o. Public transportation is safe and efficient

Although you do have to mind your belongings for the nefarious pickpockets, one of the best things about living in Barcelona is how easy and efficient public transportation is. I’ve had generally positive experiences, and it’s easy to connect to the major train and bus stations for adventures outside the city.

You may also see the red shared bikes called Bicing, but don’t bother trying to rent one because they’re only for residents. If you want to take advantage of Barcelona’s bike lanes, you’ll have to get a rental from a shop, but be strategic about how and where you lock it – bike thieves are as common as pickpockets.

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Barcelona Bucket List: 25 Best Things to do in Barcelona

Julie Last updated: January 21, 2024 Spain 31 Comments

Barcelona, Spain…this is a city that deserves to be on every traveler’s must-see list. Why? Barcelona is a beautiful city. Think Rome meets Paris. This city is spotless, with wide streets, beautiful architecture, beaches, palm trees, cafés, and boutique shopping. Throw in some tapas, Gaudí, and cava, and you have yourself a fabulous destination just waiting to be explored. For one week Tim and I explored this city and its surrounds, and here is our list of the best things to do in Barcelona.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Barcelona

#1 wander the gothic quarter.

For us, the Gothic Quarter was one of the highlights during our time in Barcelona.

The Gothic Quarter is the old city centre of Barcelona. Wandering its labyrinth of narrow, cobblestoned streets will take you back in time. Go shopping at the small boutiques and pop into the small restaurants for tapas or cava. You could easily spend all day here, but a few hours is all that is needed to get a feel for the Gothic Quarter if you are limited on time.

Plaça Reial | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

Barcelona Old Quarter | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#2 Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is a Roman Catholic church designed by Antoni Gaudí. Although it is still under construction, this church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction is forecast to be completed by 2026.

The Sagrada Familia, without a doubt, is a place you must visit while in Barcelona. Most love it, some think it is incredibly ugly. The Sagrada Familia is the most unique church we have ever seen.

From the outside, the front of the church looks like a sandcastle that is slowly crumbling into the ocean. Our first impression was not a good one. But once inside, it is beautiful. Modern, colorful, whimsical…like so much of Gaudí’s artwork in Barcelona. I love the inside…for the colors and its incredible uniqueness.  Gaudí broke out of the mold of how churches are traditionally designed and came up with this masterpiece.

During your visit, you have the option to climb one of the two towers. We chose the tower on the Passion façade , hearing that the views over the city centre are amazing. Well, this was a total disappointment. An elevator whisked us up the tower. From the top, our view was through a small window covered with a metal grate. All we could see was the scaffolding from the current construction work. We never saw those epic views that people told us about.

Your other option is to climb the tower on the Nativity façade . This tower looks out over east Barcelona. Whether or not the views are any better, we have no idea.

For those who want to do this, please note, the only way down either tower is via a spiral staircase.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: This is very important! Book your tickets in advance or join a tour of the Sagrada Familia. Without pre-purchased tickets, you risk waiting up to two hours in line to enter the Sagrada Familia. To purchase your tickets online in advance, and get updated pricing and hours, visit the Sagrada Familia website.

#3 Our Favorite Gaudí Masterpiece, Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló is one of Gaudi’s most famous designs. This colorful building sits on Passeig de Gràcia , one of the major thoroughfares through the city.

If you are short on time (or money) view Casa Batlló from the outside. For those with an interest in Gaudí and his architecture, it is worth paying the fee to tour the house. Tickets are pricey and lines can be long. This is another site where it is definitely worth purchasing your tickets in advance. To do so, visit the Casa Batlló website. Entry tickets can also be purchased through GetYourGuide.  

#4 Casa Amatller

Located to the left of Casa Batlló is Casa Amatller, another unique building in Barcelona. This building was designed for the chocolatier Antoni Amatller.

Take a peak of the outside (easy to do since it stands adjacent to Casa Batlló) and then enter the building. Inside is a store selling Amatller chocolate. It is delicious! We recommend visiting the café and ordering the melted chocolate served with bread. And don’t forget to buy some chocolate to bring home. Yum!!

Casa Amattler and Casa Batlló | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#5 Casa Milà aka La Pedrera

Here is yet another Gaudí work of art. Gaudí really left his mark on Barcelona.

Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, is located just a few blocks north of Casa Batlló on Passeig de Gràcia. This was the last civil work designed by Antoni Gaudí and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Casa Milà is another icon of Barcelona but not quite as popular as Casa Batlló. We walked by La Pedrera several times and never saw the queues like we did at Casa Batlló.

You can purchase tickets online in advance for Casa Milà. To learn more, visit the official website.

La Pedrera | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#6 Park Güell…One of Barcelona’s Most Popular Sites

Park Güell is one of Barcelona’s most popular sites, but is it worth it? During peak season, expect huge crowds of people here. Entry is limited to 400 people every half hour, which sounds like a lot, but tickets can sell out early in the day. Putting a limit on the number of people makes the visit much more enjoyable, just be prepared to buy your tickets in advance.

Park Güell is another work of Antoni Gaudí and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s another colorful spot in Barcelona with buildings that resemble gingerbread houses and a long, tiled bench designed to represent a serpent.

So, is it worth it? If you want to see more of Gaudí’s designs, yes. If you like visiting parks and natural areas, yes. If you feel like you’d be missing something if you didn’t check this one off the list, then yes.

I am glad we saw it but we did not fall in love with this one. Even with the limit on the number of people, it felt crowded and overrated.

If you are short on time, make Casa Batlló and Sagrada Familia your main Gaudí visits. There is so much more to see in Barcelona.

PRO TRAVEL TIP: If you plan on visiting Park Güell, purchase your tickets in advance. Visit the official website here.

#7 Palau Güell, Our Final Gaudí Recommendation

Palau Güell, located just off of La Rambla near the Gothic Quarter, is a palace designed by Gaudí for industrial tycoon Eusebi Güell. This one is only worth the visit if you are a big fan of Gaudí or want an interesting perspective over Barcelona from the rooftop.

Palau Güell rooftop | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#8 Watch the Sunset from a Rooftop Bar

Rooftop bars dot the skyline in Barcelona. What better way to watch the sunset over the city from a rooftop bar with a glass of cava or wine?

Our two favorites were Alaire Terrace Bar and 360° Terrace.

Alaire Terrace Bar | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

View of Passeig de Gràcia and Casa Milá from the Alaire Terrace Bar

#9 Tibidabo

Tibidabo is very small amusement park perched on a hillside overlooking the city of Barcelona. This is a great spot to take the kids when you need a break from sightseeing. To get here, you can take Bus 196 or the Blue Tram (when it’s running) to the funicular.

Tibidabo and it’s view over Barcelona | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#10 Sagrat Cor and It’s Amazing View

Sagrat Cor, also known as the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is a Roman Catholic Church located on Mount Tibidabo. Wherever you go in Barcelona, this church, on its perch overlooking the city, can be seen. For one of the best views of Barcelona, come here.

Sagrat Cor | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

Sagrat Cor sits adjacent to the Tibidabo amusement park. For one of the best views of the city, ascend to the highest point of the church.

For us, the visit to Sagrat Cor was a highlight of our time in Barcelona. This was wonderful. The views are unbelievable and there were very few people here. Later, when we shared our photo on social media, many people who had visited Barcelona knew nothing about Sagrat Cor. We highly recommend a visit here, especially on a clear day. Hopefully, you will have just as wonderful of an experience as we did.

#11 Sip Cava or Vermouth at an Outdoor Cafe

Outdoor cafes are easy to find throughout Barcelona, as are glasses of vermouth and cava. Barcelona is in the midst of a vermouth renaissance. It’s found on most menus, and if you want a great place to try it out (and have some amazing tapas) try Bodega 1900.

Cava is Spain’s sparkling wine. Found at almost every bar and restaurant in Barcelona, people usually drink cava at the start of a meal.

Outdoor Cafe in Barcelona | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#12 Take a Peak Inside the Cathedral of Barcelona

Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, this cathedral sits just to the north of the Gothic Quarter. It’s worth a visit if you are in the area.

Cathedral of Barcelona | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#13 Take a Stroll through Parc de la Ciutadella

If you need a break from the streets of Barcelona, or like to explore parks, the Parc de la Ciutadella is a great place to visit. This park is located near the Gothic Quarter. Gravel paths wind through the park, lush with palm trees and tropical vegetation.

Parc de la Ciutadella | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#14 See the Arc de Triomf

Sitting just to the north of Parc de la Ciutadella is the Arc de Triomf. It may not be not is impressive as the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, but it still is worth a quick visit. This arch was the main access gate for the 1888 World’s Fair.

Arc de Triomf | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#15 Dine on Tapas

This is a must-do! Tapas are small, savory plates of food, usually eaten as snacks or as a meal. There are tapas restaurants in abundance throughout Barcelona. Try as many as you can while here! The best part of eating tapas…being able to order an assortment of delicious treats to sample.

READ MORE: Tapas! Tapas! Tapas! Restaurants and Rooftop Bars

Bomba de la Barconeta

El Nacional | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#16 Watch a Game at Camp Nou

Camp Nou is the official football stadium of Barcelona and the largest stadium in Spain. It is the home of FC Barcelona. Watch a game, tour the stadium, and visit the museum. For more information, click here. 

#17 Visit Mercado de la Boqueria

Mercado de la Boqueria is a large market in central Barcelona. It’s a tourist landmark and worth a visit. It’s a great place to go shopping for fish, fruit, fresh juices, and an assortment of foods. There are also small tapas restaurants that are excellent. We recommend Pinotxo Bar and El Quim de la Boqueria.

#18 Take a Day Trip

If you have the time, you can take some excellent day trips from Barcelona. Visit Montserrat , a mountain range with amazing views, Girona , a medieval, delightful small town to visit, or Tarragona, a small town known for its Roman ruins.

#19 Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar

This cathedral is located in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. It’s free to visit and worth a quick stop.

Santa Maria del Mar | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

Barcelona Old Quarter street and Santa Maria del Mar

#20 Enjoy the View from Bunkers of Carmel

For another fantastic view of Barcelona, visit the Bunkers of Carmel. These abandoned aircraft defenses are now one of the most popular spots to watch the sunset.

View from the Bunkers of Carmel | Noppasin Wongchum/shutterstock.com

#21 Take a Stroll on Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is the main pedestrian thoroughfare through Barcelona. It connects Plaça de Catalunya with the Christopher Columbus monument. Tourists and locals can be found here and expect it to be busy!!

As a visitor to Barcelona, it’s worth walking on Las Ramblas for a few blocks. But we think wandering the twisting lanes of the Gothic Quarter and Passeig de Gràcia are much more interesting. Another nice street for strolling is Rambla de Catalunya …similar to Las Ramblas but much less crowded.

Las Ramblas | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#22 Palau de la Musica Catalana

This gorgeous concert hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Designed in modernista style, it was constructed between 1905 and 1908. You can take a guided tour or attend a musical performance here. Learn more on the official website.  

Palau de la Musica Catalana | Christian Bertrand/shutterstock.com

#23 The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

This fountain puts on a display of color, water, and music several nights a week, depending on the season. People who watch the show rave about it. Get show times here.

Montjuïc Fountain Show | pixelshop/shutterstock.com

#24 Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

This is the national museum of Catalunya art from the 19th and 20th centuries. We never made it inside but for art lovers this makes a great stop while in Barcelona.

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya | Best Things to Do in Barcelona

#25 Ride the Cable Car to Montjuïc Castle

Located on top of Montjuïc Hill, Montjuïc Castle is a military fortress that is almost 400 years old (it dates back to 1640). In the War of the Spanish Succession in the early 1700’s, the fort was an important defense point for Barcelona. Since this time, the castle has been renovated. Ride the Montjuïc Cable Car (Teleferic de Montjuïc) to get here. Tour the castle and enjoy the view over Barcelona.

Montjuïc Castle | saiko3p/shutterstock.com

Best of Barcelona: On a Map

How to Use This Map: Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers (points of interest and restaurant recommendations). You can click the check marks to hide or show layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each point of interest.   If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

Note: This map includes 14 restaurant and rooftop bar recommendations. For more information about these restaurants, read our article Tapas! Tapas! Tapas! Rooftop Bars and Restaurants.

How Many Days Do You Need in Barcelona?

Ideally, plan on spending at least three days in Barcelona. This gives you enough time to visit the main highlights of the city. With more time, you can add on day trips to places such as Girona and Montserrat.

If you are planning your Barcelona itinerary, take a look at our guide for the best way to spend 3 days in Barcelona. It also covers important information about how to get around Barcelona and about the various travel passes.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Barcelona is organized into neighborhoods, such as the Gothic Quarter, Plaça de Catalunya, El Raval, and El Born, just to name a few. When choosing your hotel in Barcelona, do only do you have to pick a property that works with your budget, but you also have to decide which neighborhood to stay in. In our Barcelona Hotel Guide, we cover the best hotels in Barcelona, organized by location and budget. 

Tours of Barcelona

Do you have questions about the best things to do in Barcelona? Comment below if you have any questions or if you want to share your favorite experiences.

More Information for Your Trip to Barcelona:

BARCELONA, SPAIN: Plan your visit with our 3 Day Barcelona Itinerary , our guide on Where to Stay in Barcelona, and get recommendations on where to eat in Barcelona.

BARCELONA DAY TRIPS: From Barcelona, spend the day in Girona or day trip to Montserrat to visit the Monastery and hike to spectacular viewpoints.

MORE CITIES AROUND THE WORLD: Visit more cities around the world with our guides to Rome , Paris , New York City , London , Athens, Lisbon , and Sydney.

EUROPE ITINERARIES: Check out our article 10 Days in Europe: 10 Amazing Itineraries for 10 different ways to visit the best places in Europe. And if you have less time, check out our guide to 25 Ways to Spend One Week in Europe.

Planning a trip to Spain? Read all of our articles in our Spain Travel Guide.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All rights reserved © Earth Trekkers. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.

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Comments 31

Hello! I just wanted to ask if you plans to revisit Spain. Your guides are a help and I am going to Andalucia next month. I would love to see you have extensive coverage of Spain.

Hello Liam. I’m glad you like our site! Yes, in fact we do have travel plans. We will be road tripping through Spain from mid April through mid May this year, visiting Madrid, Seville, Granada, Gibraltar, Rioja, and a bunch of small towns here and there. However, we won’t have any info out in time for your trip, but if you plan return to Spain in the future, we should have more info on our site. Cheers, Julie

Nice! Just a question on how you will visit the Alhambra?

We are staying in Granada and tickets have to be purchased in advance because they sell out.

I really enjoy this blog. Thanks for sharing useful information.

Amazing post!! I would add to do a boat trip along the coast of Barcelona. We did it with http://www.rentaboatbarcelona.com and it was the best part of our trip. Enjoy Barcelona!!

That’s is an amazing and beautiful Article. I really love it. It makes my day super. thanks for it

Amazing review about Barcelona, I really love this place we will go there after our 1st come to the world. thanks for sharing. pinned for furure

Great review of Barcelona. When would you say is the busiest time of year? We’d like to visit and avoid the crowds but also enjoy decent weather. Thanks, keep up the great content!

The busiest time of year is June, July and August. September can be busy also. If you want to avoid the crowds but want decent weather, consider the end of April into May and October. I’m glad you like our site! Cheers, Julie

Thanks so much. I think May might be the month for us. So excited to start planning!

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28 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

By Gemma Askham

The soul-caressing Spanish climate might set Barcelona up as an outdoor city, but its indoor activities have kudos, too. Find world-renowned museums that showcase artistic legends and rising stars, markets rich in local produce, and panoramic viewing platforms to take in the iconic architecture. If it’s sun you want, it’s sun you shall get—but the beach is only one option. From a secret maze to a hilltop fairground, Barcelona’s to-do list is every bit as varied as it is pure fun; Antoni Gaudí’s color-pop architecture ensures that dull moments simply don’t exist here. Consider this your capsule edit of attractions: the definitive list of what to do in Barcelona for the time-smart traveler, from art, iconic parks, and performing arts spaces to so much more. Spanning big-hitters and under-the-radar gems, these are the best things to do in Barcelona—the Catalan-speaking city's most unmissable spots.  Vamos .

Read our complete Barcelona travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

"The World Begins With Every Kiss" Mural Arrow

This romantically named mural near the Catedral de Barcelona was only meant to be a temporary exhibition. It was unveiled in 2014 for the 300th anniversary of September 11, 1714, a day known as Catalonia Day, or La Diada, which commemorates Catalan surrender in the War of Spanish Succession. The day is a tribute to the Catalan lives lost, to regional identity, and to freedom. The mural is made up of 4,000 tiles with photos printed onto them arranged into mosaics by color and density so that, from afar, the 26-foot-tall mural shows two people kissing. This kiss—a symbol of affection, empathy, and liberty—felt so poignant that the local government never took it down.

Park Güell Arrow

Park Güell is an almost make-believe landscape: home to Barcelona’s famous mosaic lizard—the image on a thousand postcards—plus spiral towers that look like fairground slides. The city’s grandest park began life as a collaboration between entrepreneur Eusebi Güell (hence the park’s name) and Antoni Gaudí. Know that you need to book in advance online, and arrive promptly for your allotted slot—there’s zero wiggle room with timing. An interesting add-on is Casa Museu Gaudí, the pink spired building inside the park. It’s not included in your entrance fee (so factor in an extra €5.50/$5.50 per person), but Gaudí actually lived there for 19 years—which makes it the home tour of all home tours.

Santa Maria del Mar Arrow

Ask any local to pick their favorite church and we’d bet a glass of (sacramental) Catalan wine that Santa Maria del Mar would be it. (Sorry, La Sagrada Família !) If you’ve read Ildefonso Falcones’s thriller Cathedral of the Sea , you already know more about it than you think: the novel’s backdrop is the construction of this particular Gothic church, with the lead protagonist one of its stone workers. In real life, the church’s history is almost stranger than fiction: in 1428, it was shook by a major earthquake. Then, in July 1936, it was set on fire and burned for 11 days straight. Look inside, and you’ll still see the black scorch marks on the roof. The building has very tall columns, set 43 feet apart. Combine that airiness with vast stretches of stained glass and it almost feels like someone’s pulling you up into the sky.

Parc del Laberint d'Horta Arrow

Barcelona is famous for its buildings being works of art; this is one of the few examples of a garden stepping up to that level. On the wilderness spectrum, Barcelona’s oldest park is beauty-salon manicured: splendid temples, lily-glazed ponds, sculptures of mythological figures, and a cypress maze that’s clearly given the gardener’s pruning shears a workout. The labyrinth is definitely the standout feature, a maze made of elaborate swirls of thick foliage. It recreates the Greek myth of Theseus destroying the Minotaur (a part-human, part-bull monster) to fall in love with Ariadne. A similar fate awaits those who make it to the center—no bovine slaying required, but you will find love in the form of a statue of Cupid. If that all sounds a bit soppy, scoff later: the maze is harder than it looks.

Stacey Lastoe

Tonya Russell

Laura Kiniry

Nora Zelevansky

Tibidabo Arrow

While Tibidabo mountain is a fairground, it's also so much more. You’ll first notice it from the city center: high on a summit, the silhouette of a majestic temple makes you curious to go. Officially called the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor (or Sacred Heart church, easier on the tongue), its roof is topped with an enormous bronze statue of Jesus that you can take an elevator to. Mind-blown (and a little breeze-blown), you suddenly see the charm of the amusement park next to it—like its retro-styled attractions, such as a Ferris wheel with color-pop seating pods, built for the views as much as the screams. Adults love the views; kids love the rides. Finish with a gin and tonic on the terrace of Mirablau Bar , near where the blue tram stops. The edge seats rule.

Gran Teatre del Liceu Arrow

As you’d expect from an opera venue, it’s grand, beautiful, doused with art, and occupies a prime piece of zip code on La Rambla . Yet, as with many of life’s most interesting characters, not all is quite what it seems. The vestibule, as you walk in, dates back to the building’s original construction in 1847. However, the main performance space—with a striking domed ceiling, red-velvet chairs and ornate gold moldings that have echoes of the Palace of Versailles—was actually unveiled in the grand old year of… 1999. A fire having wiped out most of the building’s structure in 1994. But you would never know. The acoustics and sight lines are excellent, and a small screen in your footwell provides subtitles. There's legroom to keep even the long-limbed content.

Mirador Torre Glòries Arrow

Even if you don’t know Torre Glòries by name, you’ll know it by sight. The gleaming, iridescent tower that pierces the cityscape like (some say) a gherkin, though architect Jean Nouvel had a geyser in mind. It’s possibly Barcelona’s most famous landmark that Gaudí had absolutely nothing to do with, and at 470-feet tall it’s definitely one of its tallest. Opened in 2005, and famous for housing Meta’s Barcelona outpost, it’s never offered much in the way of visitor interest beyond a snap. That changed in 2022, when the 30th floor became a panoramic public observation deck with unobstructed views across every angle of the city. Now, when we explain an example of an exhibit, you’ll think we’re joking—we are not joking; it’s a climbing frame, suspended in the air by 3.7 miles of tensioned cable, made of tiny platforms–many transparent–that you scramble up onto, with absolutely no safety protection. Some platforms have cushions to rest and savor the view. Others are so physically tricky to traverse that you’ll break into a sweat, slide on your butt, and have to logically plan a route out. The serious stuff: it’s hard! 

Catedral de Barcelona Arrow

It might not have the quirkiness nor the hype of La Sagrada Família , but it holds court: a giant Gothic temple that looms large against the narrow lanes and matchbox shops. Its site originally housed a Roman temple some 2,000 years ago, when Barcelona was still called Bàrcino (you can track down parts of the old Roman walls and aqueduct nearby). Today, the cathedral’s official name, Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, honors Eulalia, a local girl who refused to accept Roman emperor Diocletian’s demand to recant her Christian faith. It’s beautiful and atmospheric, as religious buildings so often are. Regardless of your personal level of piety, the architecture inside—plus the city view from the short elevator ride to the top—is quite something.

La Boqueria Arrow

La Boqueria might be Barcelona’s oldest market—it started life in 1217 as a mere huddle of meat stalls on La Rambla —but tradition isn’t staid. More than 200 stands unite like a foodie’s choir: traders’ shouts, the clink of glasses, welcome greetings sung out ("holaaaa"). Though, for all the atmosphere, it’s the smell that gets you: warm, ocean-salty, freshly fried fish: the kind that lines your nostrils, excites your stomach, makes your physician tense, and has to be washed down with a glass of cava. Grab a fruit smoothie from the technicolored stalls as you walk in. Then do a lap: the deeper you venture, the better the value.

La Rambla Arrow

Barcelona’s most famous street—a nearly one-mile pedestrianized boulevard from Plaça Cataluyna to Port Vell—is still the strolling route for the city's visitors, even if selfie-stick vendors can’t match the charm of the old-school florists, gelaterías, and candy stalls offering bites of crema catalana (a form of crème brûlée) along the way. To predict your next question: But is it La Rambla or Las Ramblas? Well, it’s really both. Originally, the area consisted of five mini-ramblas: Rambla de Canaletes, Estudis, Sant Josep, Caputxins, and Santa Mònica, but they're often lumped together and today, the street sign says La Rambla. Annoying as it is to keep your purse clenched from pickpockets for a mile, La Rambla has a charm that keeps the 78 million coming.

Fundació Joan Miró Arrow

It takes a certain type of space to accommodate Miró—an artist whose works range from a white canvas with a single black line to bold, primary-colored, robot-like sculptures. So it makes sense that Miró worked with his friend, architect Josep Lluís Sert, to design the building himself. It’s modern and minimalist by Barcelona’s standards—it's certainly no La Sagrada Família . But the coolest part is knowing that you’re seeing Miró’s work laid out exactly as he intended. However you feel about Miró, the collection is lively and energetic and devoid of the stuffy pretense that art museums can attract.

Els Encants Arrow

Els Encants is the flea market with the fabulous roof. That ceiling is over 80-feet high, built from undulating zinc and aluminum, and mirrored silver-gold to reflect a kaleidoscopic whirl of stalls below. This market of odds-and-sods has existed in Barcelona since around 1300; for years, as a nomad–goods laid out on ever-changing streets and squares around the city. That changed in 2013 when Els Encants’ sparkling new home opened in Poblenou. The design wizardry of architect b720 Fermín Vázquez (which is now modernizing the city’s iconic Camp Nou soccer stadium), it’s a visual stunner blessed with good-looking neighbors. On one side, the tin-foil-shiny Torre Glòries and Disseny Hub, the design museum. Turn 90 degrees, and there’s La Sagrada Familia saying hola in the background.

Casa Batlló Arrow

It’s easy to see why Casa Batlló has been likened to Claude Monet’s Water Lilies : Covered in shards of stained glass, it sometimes appears blue, then green, then shimmering like the glassy layer of a lake. Textile industrialist Josep Batlló commissioned Gaudí to design this home after seeing what Gaudí had done with Park Güell . Influenced by nature, Casa Batlló has no straight lines (because they don’t exist in nature, said Gaudí), stone pillars that contort like animal bones, and a tall, ocean-blue stairwell that’s very Jules Verne. The result is both grand and intimate. See our Barcelona Gaudi guide, here .

Palau de la Música Catalana Arrow

It might be the Palace of Catalan Music, but you come as much for your eyes as your ears. The auditorium is a kaleidoscope of roses, chandeliers, and stained glass. This is the work of Modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, a building some say is even prettier than Gaudí's La Sagrada Família . Built to house the Orfeó Català symphonic choir, today’s musical acts span from choral to pianists, jazz, flamenco, and operas such as La Traviata and Carmen . A key decision is whether to visit in daylight, for a tour, when the building is at its most spectacular, or at night, when the music happens.

Barceloneta Arrow

Barceloneta is the high-school jock of beaches: loud, popular, and boisterous. Its version of a buff torso? A strip of sand that’s no less of a showoff; at one end, there’s the metallic, sail-like silhouette of the W Hotel , at the other, the blinding gold sculpture of a fish by architect Frank Gehry. When you’ve arrived at Barceloneta, you know it. If you’re looking for the whitest sand and the most azure waters, you won’t find them at Barceloneta. But it is convenient, chaotic, and a must-see carnival.

Montjuïc Arrow

There are many grand elements to Montjüic, a historic hill that’s a whole lot more than ‘just a hill’. For starters, the approach at ground level. From the roundabout at Plaça España (which doesn’t sound sexy, we know), it appears majestically from nowhere, a dramatic, architectural staircase leading up to the  Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (National Museum of Catalan Art). It looks like a palace; the water feature in front is even called the Magic Fountain. (Some evenings, there’s a water-light spectacular; check the schedule  here ). So far, we’ve described about 400 meters of Montjüic: the rest has more museums, the 1992 Olympic site, exotic gardens, and enough panoramic views to jam a smartphone camera roll.

Palo Market Fest Arrow

Take an abandoned factory in the most up-and-coming part of town, plant enough foliage to fund your local garden center for life, and use the term "concept space" a LOT. Sounds trendy, right? On the thermometer of cool, Palo Market Fest is an icy Old Fashioned cocktail. Yet its atmosphere has the warm glow of having knocked a few back: live music provides a head-bopping shopping backdrop, while pop-up beer bars and insanely good food trucks mean that everyone is simply in a great mood.

La Sagrada Família Arrow

It’s practically illegal to go to Barcelona and not visit La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s extraordinary temple dedicated to the Holy Family—also known as the world’s largest unfinished church. The illusive end date remains a mystery—local theorists speculate it will never be done in order to preserve its in-process cachet. Be sure to book a ticket ahead (dates are available three months out) so you can get inside and gawk at the vaults and rainbow stained glass. When you go, spring for the extra audio guide and a trip up to one of the two towers—the Nativity Façade is our favorite.

Mercat de Sant Antoni Arrow

Imagine La Boqueria –the heaving, calamari-scented food market on La Rambla—before it became famous. When the only voices were local, and daily specials were scribbled in felt-tip pen on scraps on paper. That’s Sant Antoni today. A food and clothes market that’s revered by locals and cemented in their daily routines. Telling an international audience about it feels like breaking a secret code, so come with respect for that authenticity and a willingness to practice your high-school Spanish–as well as an appetite. Oh yes, you’ll definitely want the latter. Aim for that sweet spot where you’ll salivate upon seeing trays of olives piled like sandcastles, but aren’t so ravenous that you’ll blow all your hunger on the first stall of cured meats you come to. Built in 1882, it recently closed from 2009 to 2018 for an €80 million refurb. Today, it’s restored, reopened and thriving–with the surrounding blocks becoming car-free to enhance the community-first experience. If you're on a budget: the stall Ous de Calaf takes pretty presentation next-level with loose eggs displayed in straw among ornaments of hens. Regional wines are also likely to be gluggably affordable.

Picasso Museum Arrow

A museum spread over five palaces—we’d expect nothing less for Picasso, who moved to Barcelona as a 14-year-old boy and made frequent trips back throughout his life. Downstairs, a courtyard and Gothic archways lead into white studios that illuminate his works. Upstairs, the rooms are lavish: epic painted ceilings that almost drip crystal chandeliers. Visitors flock here to see Picasso's work, but the special setting is why they come back again and again. If you’re expecting Picasso’s big-hitters, you might be disappointed—for a few minutes. Guernica resides in the Reina Sofía in Madrid , The Weeping Woman at London ’s Tate Modern . What Barcelona’s museum has, is everything around those postcard images. In chronological order, it shows every brushstroke (all 4,251 works’ worth) of how he moved from a classically trained painter (see Ciencia y Caridad in Room 3) to a Cubist pioneer, plus some things we never knew he did, like ceramics.

Moco Museum Barcelona Arrow

Here’s the thing: you cannot be bored here. Even if you hit 10,000 steps by lunchtime, Moco’s fluorescent, lively, reaction-provoking collection is a guaranteed perk-you-up. Yes, even if you’ve been known to yawn at the word “museum”. Younger sister of the original Moco Museum in Amsterdam , the name–a snappy portmanteau of modern and contemporary–gives you an idea of the collection’s genre. In truth, the cliché of “expect the unexpected” runs true. There’s a room of Banksys. Talking-point pieces by Damien Hirst and Salvador Dalí sit alongside chuckle-inducing satirical wall quotes. Andy Warhol pops up; photography by David LaChapelle; a lot of KAWS–he of Smurf courtyard fame. And possibly some new-discovery names to add to your iPhone Notes, such as the beautifully macabre oil paintings of Chile’s Guillermo Lorca, which are part-fairytale, part-horror story. One hack: tickets for time slots before 11:00 am and after 6:00 pm are cheaper.

Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site Arrow

Built by legendary Modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner (of Palau de la Música Catalana fame) with all the features of Catalan Art Nouveau—extravagant domes, stained glass windows, epic pillars—it was designed to be a building that people enjoyed recuperating in. His vision was a garden city for nursing the sick instead of the clinical-looking spaces we still know today—buildings are oriented for maximum sun exposure, for example. When the hospital was moved further north in 2009, this site went through its own rehabilitation: into a museum and arts venue. It now hosts the runways for Barcelona Fashion Week.

Parc de la Ciutadella Arrow

Barcelona's vast city park houses a zoo, regional parliament, and plenty of sites and spots for lounging. Cascada Monumental, built with input from a young Gaudí, is a stunning golden waterfall that both wows and relaxes you. Ditto the serene boating lake beside it. Enter through the Arc de Triomf and the elaborate Modernist building to your right is Castell dels Tres Dragons , built by Lluís Domènech i Montaner. Currently closed for renovation, with no word on a reopening date, it was once the zoology museum. Another beautiful, yet no less mysterious, series of structures are the cast iron Umbracle (palm house) and Hivernacle (winter garden) in front. Go for an authentic slice of city-park life.

The Barcelona Pavilion by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe Arrow

This Pavilion was designed by German architects Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich for the 1929 International Exposition—a global showcase of architectural styles. Exposition over, the pavilion was duly dismantled back to Germany. It was only in the decades after—cue: a face-palming moment of hindsight—that the architectural community realized just how pivotal Mies van der Rohe’s founding symbol of modernist architecture was. In 1980, Barcelona City Council enlisted a team of Catalan architects to turn salvaged photographs and drawings into a delicate, atmospheric reconstruction. Most people’s overarching takeaway from the Pavilion is that it’s smaller than they imagined, so use this as your battery recharge before tackling the other arty big-hitters on Montjuïc , such as Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) and Fundació Joan Miró .

Camp Nou Arrow

The importance FC Barcelona soccer club has in the city can be felt in the noise of its home stadium, the Camp Nou. At 99,354, it’s the biggest in Europe—and there's an expansion plan in place to push it to 105,000. All seats are actually owned by season-ticket holders, who then release them to the public if they can’t go. Don’t worry: it means there’s usually a good chunk available, especially against lower league teams, and 72 to 48 hours before a match. Barcelona’s home matches in La Liga—the Spanish soccer league—usually run from mid-August to the end of May, and tours of the stadium and the FC Barcelona museum are still kicking off (from €26, or $30). Glimpse Messi’s trophies, the players’ tunnel, and the first team’s bench.

Casa Vicens Arrow

Built in the 1880s as a summerhouse for stockbroker Manel Vicens, Casa Vicens was the very first house Gaudí designed. Forget the Gaudí of La Sagrada Família fame, this is his Orientalist Period. Imagine a Moorish palace merged with a Rubik’s cube. It’s crazy. Anyone who’s a fan of tiles or maximalist design will geek out on the oriental palms, pink walls, flower-adorned tiles and flying birds. Add in a terracotta roof terrace, a couple of elaborate domes, and some Gaudí ironwork and you’re left wondering how it all harmonizes together. Because, weirdly, it does.

IDEAL Centre d’Arts Digitals Arrow

If a digital arts center was going to pop up anywhere in Barcelona, you’d bet your tapas fund on the district of Poblenou—the Catalan capital’s East London-like ‘hood, where once crumbling factories spawn start-ups, art studios, and museums like the Museu Can Framis . From the outside, IDEAL’s boxy exterior shouts movie theatre. And it was—for 67 years. Then it became a movie set, then nothing at all, before a regeneration project in 2019 turned the lights back on. It’s now southern Europe’s first facility dedicated to producing and showcasing digital arts projects, such as holography and virtual reality. Instead of watching an image, you’re thrown right into the image—meaning popcorn-munching to fill the slow scenes is a thing of the past.

Nau Bostik Arrow

Barcelona has a lot of well-known museums, with a lot of well-known names, in a lot of well-known parts of town. Nau Bostik is absolutely none of those—which is exactly why we love it. Take the metro to La Sagrera, walk 10 minutes through a residential district that makes you wonder if you've gotten lost, and look for a bold-colored striped mural on the side of a factory. This work, by Argentine street artist Elian Chali, sums up the spirit of the Nau Bostik.

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How to Plan the Perfect Visit to Barcelona in Any Season

The beautiful city of Barcelona is perfect for visiting any time of year.

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

The name of this storied Catalan city, Barcelona, is almost as beautiful as the coastal metropolis itself. Nicknamed Ciudad Condol (once upon a time, the city was the seat of the Count of Barcelona) the destination sticks with anyone who wanders among the remarkable architecture and through the airy plaças. Nestled along the sparkling Mediterranean Sea in northeastern Spain, Barcelona is a colorful melting pot of culture, full of world-renowned cuisine, legendary art, music, and more. Book a trip to this sunny city and you'll spend your days exploring the dynamic barrios , wandering along the beach, strolling through verdant green spaces, and discovering gem after gem — some well known, like Park Güell or Camp Nou, and some hidden, like Santa Caterina.

The architecture alone is worth planning your trip around — from Gothic structures to Gaudí's modern wonders, design lovers could fill weeks exploring the stunning buildings, monuments, and sculptures throughout the city. Ultimately, Barcelona's unwavering energy and cultural elements result in a distinct immensity of spirit unlike any other destination. The temperate climate, too, makes the weather quite pleasant for most of the year.

When vacationing in a new place — especially an historic city — it's easy to get caught up in the I-must-see-everything-as-quickly-as-possible mentality. And while Barça has no shortage of things to see and do, the city imparts a distinct sense of relaxation on those who pass through. Be sure to reserve time to experience life like the locals do, enjoying leisurely lunches followed by siesta, vermuteria hopping on Sundays, and frequenting your neighborhood bar for tapas and wine with friends.

Central European Standard Time

Early summer or autumn are the best times to visit Barcelona, as late summer tends to get hot and humid. Book your trip in May, June, September, or October for the most idyllic weather — you'll encounter plenty of sun and nice temperatures for swimming and walking about the city's stunning streets, parks, and markets.

Barcelona is the capital and largest city of Catalonia, where both Spanish and Catalan are the predominant languages spoken. The city is a transportation hub and one of southwestern Europe's economic centers — also known as Spain's leading biotech city.

Meal times are all generally on the late side in Barcelona. Restaurants are typically open from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for lunch, and from 8:30 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. for dinner. Many stores close for lunchtime siesta (2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.), as well as on Sundays and public holidays.

Europe's largest stadium is Camp Nou in Barcelona with a capacity of over 99,000 occupants, and is home to FC Barcelona (one of the most supported fútbol teams in the world).

Metro: The Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) is the main transport system in Barcelona, operating both the metro line and select bus routes. Riders can purchase tickets at metro stations across the city. Single tickets cost €2.40 or you can buy a T-Casual ticket for multi-trip use.

Trains: The main railway station in Barcelona is the Barcelona Sants. The FGC is a network of trains in Barcelona and the surrounding suburbs which connects the city to other towns in Catalonia. The Renfe is an international high-speed railway line that connects Spain and France, allowing travelers to get to cities like Paris, Marseille, and Madrid quickly.

Buses: The TMB operates all throughout the city and travelers can purchase tickets both at stops and on the bus, although you're only able to purchase single rides on the bus. There's also the Aerobús BCN , which connects Barcelona Airport with the city center.

Taxis: Typically affordable, accessible, and all over the city day and night.

Car service: While Uber operates throughout Spain, it is not currently available in Barcelona. Cabify is a favored alternative for ride sharing.

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 700, Barcelona 08010, Spain Phone: +34 93 545 80 70 Book Now

Casa Bonay's bread and butter is creating simple, sustainable spaces that impart a sense of local culture and community onto guests. With ample greenery and a simplistic, chic interior decor (made in partnership with local designers), this 19th-century house-turned-hotel's light and airy atmosphere matches that of the city itself. Be sure to grab tapas at the property's rooftop restaurant (open to the public) and sunbathe on the neighboring rooftop terrace, exclusive to guest use.

Cotton House Hotel (Eixample)

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 670, Barcelona 08010, Spain Phone: +34 934 505 045 Book Now

Cotton House Hotel, part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, is housed in the former headquarters of the Association of Cotton Manufacturers, giving the property's spaces a neoclassical foundation accented by soft, sophisticated designs. In addition to 83 comfortable rooms, the hotel features an elegant library, a restaurant and cocktail bar, a terrace, and a rooftop pool. Be sure to check out the property's unique spiral staircase, built in 1957 — it's the only one of its kind in Europe.

El Palauet Barcelona

Address: Passeig de Gracia, 113, Barcelona 08008, Spain Phone: +34 932 180 050 Book Now

These six luxurious suites (each two-bedroom) epitomize Spanish elegance in hotel form. Located centrally along the famous tourism and shopping hub of Passeig de Gracia, El Palauet is housed in Casa Bonaventura Ferrer, the iconic modernist building built by Pere Falqués i Urpí in 1906.

Address: La Rambla, 109, Barcelona 08001, Spain Phone: +34 935 529 552 Book Now

Located right along the tree-lined pedestrian stretch of La Rambla, as hinted in its name, Hotel 1898 has a long history. Originally the headquarters of General Philippines Tobacco Company, elements of the property's origins can be seen in the architecture and classical decor style. The comfortable rooms range from classic to deluxe, with two levels of beautifully-appointed suite options available.

Hotel Arts Barcelona (La Barceloneta)

Address: Marina 19-21, Barcelona 08005, Spain Phone: +34 932 211 000 Book Now

Come for the striking glass design and amazing views, and stay for the property's two-star Michelin restaurant and breathtaking pool. Hotel Arts Barcelona offers five-star accommodations (rooms, suites, and penthouses) in elevated, modern interiors high above the Mediterranean and the city — so the views are as superb as the service and luxury amenities. Designed by architect Bruce Graham, the exterior's steel-and-glass build is one of the most distinct modern buildings in the city.

Hotel Brummell (Poble Sec)

Address: Nou de la Rambla,174, Barcelona 08004, Spain Phone: +34 931 258 622 Book Now

A stone's throw from the legendary site Montjuïc, Hotel Brummell offers 20 comfortable rooms in the trendy Poble Sec neighborhood. Considered slightly off-the-beaten-path, this property is low-key and intimate with an imaginative, modern design, beautifully mirroring Barcelona's culture of cool. Features include a sunny terrace, an outdoor pool, an on-site sauna, and a restaurant and bar.

Hotel Neri (Gothic Quarter)

Address: Sant Sever Street, 5, Barcelona 08002, Spain Phone: +34 93 304 06 55 Book Now

This Relais & Châteaux property is located in two historic buildings — one of which is a restored 12th-century palace — in Barcelona's storied Gothic Quarter. The hotel's moody, chic atmosphere matches the neighborhood it calls home, and proximity to attractions like La Rambla and the Picasso Museum make it an ideal home for those exploring the city for the first time. The 22 hotels and suites feature luxury amenities, some featuring balconies and terraces, others with sweeping views or gilded murals.

Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona

Address: Passeig de Gracia 68 - 70, Barcelona 08007, Spain Phone: +34 934 881 717 Book Now

Located in the heart of the Passeig de Gracia, Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona is a Neo Classical icon dating back to 1918. Known for an exceptionally detail-oriented staff, the property epitomizes timeless elegance, with light and warm tones accenting the 271 rooms, suites, penthouses, and apartments. Guests will enjoy proximity to many attractions, including Gaudí's architecture, upscale shopping, myriad restaurants, and Gran Teatre del Liceu, and more.

Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 38-40, Barcelona 08007, Spain Phone: +34 93 151 88 88 Book Now

This beloved hotel, situated on the bustling Passeig de Gràcia, is one of the city's most popular luxury hotels. Accommodations feature striking views of the property's immaculate gardens and the nearby Casa Batlló. Guests can expect five-star service, timeless room and suite design, and delicious meals at the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant.

Mercer Hotel Barcelona (Gothic Quarter)

Address: Calle dels Lledó, 7, Barcelona 08002, Spain Phone: +34 933 107 480 Book Now

A stay at the Mercer Hotel is unlike any other in Barcelona, as the boutique property was built atop a wall of Barcino, the ancient Roman city, in what is now the Gothic Quarter. After a day of exploring the city, the elegant accommodations offer a refuge from the urban bustle, and travelers can look forward to lounging on the property's private terrace or taking a dip in the on-site plunge pool. Modern design enthusiasts and history buffs can anticipate medieval arches, 12th-century frescoes, 18th-century wooden ceilings, sleek furniture, and expressionist art by Agustí Puig.

W Barcelona (La Barceloneta)

Address: Plaça Rosa del Vents, 1, Final Passeig de Joan de Borbó, Barcelona 08039, Spain Phone: +34 932 95 28 00 Book Now

One of the most iconic buildings in the city, the W Hotel's distinct, curved silhouette sits right where the sand meets the sea. The interiors are just as modern and sleek as the exterior, which was designed by legendary architect Ricardo Bofill. Guests can expect panoramic views of the Mediterannean from each of the 473 five-star rooms and suites.

Bar Cañete (Seafood, Tapas)

Address: Carrer de la Unió, 17, 08001 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 932 703 458 Website

Don't be fooled by this restaurant's low-key exterior — the menu's seafood from local Catalan fish markets and seasonal produce yields some of the freshest tapas in the city. Reservations can be made by phone, required only for parties of 12 or more.

Caelis (Contemporary)

Address: Via Laietana, 49 (Hotel Ohla Barcelona), Barcelona 08003, Spain Phone: +34 935 101 205 Website

Chef Romain Fornell and his team serve up daring and inspired contemporary dishes on three different tasting menus at this Michelin-starred restaurant inside Hotel Ohla. Reservations are recommended (online or via phone), seating is indoors, and guests must adhere to a smart dress code.

Disfrutar (Contemporary)

Address: Carrer de Villarroel, 163, barcelona 08036, Spain Phone: +34 933 486 896 Website

This Eixample-based restaurant serves up creative Mediterranean cuisine in an intimate space, decorated with ceramics and light hues to honor the city — and was founded by the famous trio of chefs that used to helm El Bullu. Reservations are available online or via phone.

Dos Palillos (Tapas, fusion)

Address: Carrer d'Elisabets, 9, Barcelona 08001, Spain Phone: +34 93 304 05 13 Website

Based on Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cuisines, the fusion tapas at Dos Palillos are divine, so the tasting menu comes highly recommended (you'll want to make a reservation online or by phone). If you prefer to eat a la carte and try a cocktail, you can sit at the bar, no reservation required.

El Falafel de Shani (Falafel, Kosher, Vegan)

Address: La Rambla, 91 Mercat de la Boqueria, 133-134, 08011 Barcelona Phone: + 34 692 967 297 Website

It might be easy to miss this no-nonsense vegan and kosher falafel stand in La Boqueria, but it's worth seeking out — many consider it to be the best falafel in the city (and very affordable).

El Nacional (Iberian)

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 24 bis 08007 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +(34) 93 518 50 53 Website

This spacious eatery has dynamic menu offerings that are just as impressive as the venue's eye-catching, glass-and-steel architecture. Guests can choose from four different cuisines or four different bars throughout the venue.

Llambar (Tapas)

Address: Carrer de la Fusina 5, 08003 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 933 19 62 50 Website

Nestled in El Born, Llambar's menu is meant to be shared, complete with signature cocktails, an extensive wine list, and artisanal Spanish tapas. Reservations (not required but recommended, since the atmospheric spot is so popular) can be made online or via phone.

Suculent (Tapas, Mediterranean)

Address: Rambla del Raval, 45, 08001 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 443 65 79 Website

Helmed by El Bulli alum Toni Romero, Suculent has become a trendy Raval staple, known for reliably delicious tapas and a lively atmosphere. The culinary team serves up classics and reinvented Spanish and Mediterannean dishes with an emphasis on flavorful broths and sauces.

Basilica of the Sagrada Familia

Address: Carrer Mallorca, 401 Barcelona 08013 Phone: +34 932 080 414 Website

Known worldwide as a symbol of the historic city, the Sagrada Familia is Gaudí's most celebrated work of art and architecture. Design and construction of the church began in 1882 and is ongoing to this day. It's recommended to book tickets online in advance to save time in lines when visiting.

Address: Carrer d'Arístides Maillol, 12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 902 1899 00 Website

Barcelona is home to one of the most beloved futbol teams in the entire world: FC Barcelona. So it is only fitting that Camp Nou is one of the most magnificent sports stadiums in Europe, boasting a seating capacity of 99,354. Do your best to book tickets to a game (bookable via the stadium's website or TicketMaster).

Casa Batlló

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 216 03 06 Website

With it's distinct marine-inspired façade, Gaudí's famous Casa Batlló (a UNESCO World Heritage site) looms high over Passeig de Gracia. It's one of Europe's best examples of modernist architecture and worth exploring inside and out.

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 92, 08008 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 932 142 576 Website

Nicknamed "La Pedrera" (stone quarry), Casa Milà in Eixample was completed by Gaudí in 1912, and is known as his final civic work. It's striking appearance takes inspiration from nature, and was the famed architect's most advanced approach to a building.

Castell de Montjuïc

Address: Carretera de Montjuïc 66, 08038 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 932 564 440 Website

Many flock to the Montjuïc barrio to explore the 17th-century Castell de Montjuïc or to catch the Magic Fountain light show from the steps of the stately National Museum of Art. Pro tip: don't miss out on the lesser-known but equally striking Jardí Botànic , located on the hillside. The spacious, verdant gardens offer a tranquil outdoor oasis as well as lovely views of the city.

La Boqueria

Address: Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 318 20 17 Website

Arguably the best open market in the word, La Boqueria is a European icon. Though it gets very crowded (especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m) it features incredibly fresh produce, meats, cheeses, sweets, cafes, bars, and more. Pro tip: bring your camera.

Mount Tibidabo

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Address: Tibidabo Square, 08035 Barcelona, Spain Website

Take the historic funicular up to Barcelona's highest peak, Mount Tibidabo, where in addition to a charming amusement park (the second-oldest in Europe) and Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón, you'll find panoramic views of the entire city, the Mediterranean, and surrounding mountains.

Palau de la Música Catalana

Address: Carrer Palau de la Música, 4-6, 08003 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 295 7200 Website

Designed by Lluis Domenech i Montaner and completed in 1908, Palau de la Música Catalana features one of the most opulent interiors in Spain. Make purchasing tickets for any musical performance a priority while in Barcelona so that you can experience the grande Palau in person.

Address: 08024 Barcelona, Spain Website

Named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984, this whimsical masterpiece created by Antoni Gaudí is one of the most iconic parks in the world. It's full of color, dynamic shapes, split ceramics, innovative architecture, and lush gardens — and overlooks a vast swath of the beautiful city.

Picasso Museum

Address: Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 256 30 00 Website

One of the primary art attractions in the whole city, the Picasso Museum helps viewers understand the formative years of Pablo Picasso. The permanent collection, made up of 4,251 works from a variety of time periods, helps to convey the artist's early career and special relationship with Barcelona.

Colette Barcelona (Jewelry)

Address: Carrer de les Panses 5, 08003-Barcelona, Spain Phone: +0034.93.170.81.23 Website

You'll find sweet, feminine jewelry at Colette Barcelona, a design house and showroom in El Born that does all the brand's designing, dyeing, mounting, and ironing locally. The pieces have a distinct style, as the jewelry is crafted with mixed materials and textiles.

El Corte Inglés Plaça Catalunya (Department store)

Address: Plaça de Catalunya, 14, Barcelona 08002, Spain Phone: +34 933 06 38 00 Website

This iconic and centrally-located department store at the edge of Plaça Catalunya has everything from clothing and cosmetics to homeware, local delicacies, electronics, and much more — including a food court and supermarket.

Entre Latas (Specialty food)

Address: Torrijos, 16, 08012 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 930 154 725 Website

This gourmet shop is the place to go for canned and preserved foods. Entre Latas carries everything from local delicacies to imported products — think specialty vermouth, rare spices, tinned fish, paté, and preserves. You can even create your own personalized gourmet pack.

Iriarte Iriarte​ (Handbags)

Address: Carrer dels Cotoners 12, 08003 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 933 198 175 Website

Anyone who adores handbags must visit Iriarte Iriarte. The brand uses traditional techniques and hand-dying to create stylish leather bags, handcrafted in Barcelona since 2009.

La Manual Alpargatera (Espadrilles)

Address: Carrer de Avinyó 7, 08002, Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 933 01 01 72 Website

Since 1940, the design team at La Manual Alpargatera has produced sustainably-crafted, timeless espadrilles, entirely handmade in Barcelona. La Manual is a staple for locals and travelers — in fact, the brand's storefront design is so iconic that it's said a customer addressed a letter to the company using a drawing of the store (rather than the physical address), and it arrived via the post just fine.

Llibreria Altaïr (Books)

Address: Gran Via, 616, 08007 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 342 71 71 Website

This vast bookstore is one of the very best in the city, known for a specialization in books about travel, language, culture, and exploring the world. A meeting point and lively cultural space, you'll want to spend a good chunk of time exploring the many titles — and be sure to grab a bite at the store's sweet cafe, too.

Santa Eulalia (Designer fashion)

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 93, Barcelona 08008, Spain Phone: +34 932 15 06 74 Website

Founded in 1843, this historic and design-forward clothing store features a myriad of high-end labels such as Tom Ford, Dior, Lanvin, and the like. It also boasts its own ready-to-wear collection for women and a bespoke shirt-making service for men.

Zara Flagship (Fashion)

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 16, Barcelona 08007, Spain Phone: +34 933 18 76 75 Website

Spanish-based fashion empire Zara, a wardrobe staple for many across the globe, is housed in a stately flagship store flanked by columns on bustling Passeig de Gràcia. Pop inside to find the latest ready-to-wear, couture-inspired clothing, with styles for men, women, and children ranging from timeless to trendy and everywhere in between.

Eixample: Broad boulevards, courtyards, ample trees, and excellent shopping and dining options make Eixample a wonderful home base when visiting BCN. You'll find Gaudí's classics like Casa Battló, Casa Milà, and the Sagrada Familia in this neighborhood, alongside other great works of both traditional and modern architecture.

El Born: Like the neighboring Gothic Quarter, El Born is known for the narrow, meandering medieval streets, but it's slightly less busy. Here, travelers will discover especially good shopping (think stylish boutiques), artsy vibes, wonderful restaurants and bars, and close proximity to the beach.

El Raval: Located about a 10-minute walk from Plaça Catalunya, El Raval is a vibrant neighborhood known for its character, authentic restaurants and bars, and the impressive Museum of Contemporary Art . Two streets in particular, Carrer dels Tallers and Carrer de La Riera Baixa, are especially good for vintage and second-hand shopping. Those in search of an authentic taste of Barcelona life will enjoy exploring this barrio, but be mindful of your surroundings, as parts of Raval can be a bit shifty (avoid unlit alleys or walking alone at night).

Gothic Quarter: Known by locals as Barri Gòtic, this charming old town neighborhood is full of legendary Gothic architecture nestled along narrow, medieval-era streets. In addition to checking out the trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques, see remains of the old Roman city at the Museu d'Història de Barcelona .

Gràcia: Vila de Gràcia is the epitome of authentic, leisurely life in Barcelona. The neighborhood is a bit quieter than its more centrally-located counterparts, and you'll find it's chock full of beautiful plaças, atmospheric restaurants and bars, eclectic galleries, and independent boutiques. You can easily spend all day in this uncrowded, village-like neighborhood.

La Barceloneta: Nestled right by the sea, La Barceloneta is an energetic and historic beachside neighborhood that offers more than a touristy stretch of sand if you know what to look for. Come for the seafood (ahem, paella ) and stay for the hopping bar scene.

Poble Sec: Bordering scenic Montjuïc, Poble Sec is one of the most lively neighborhoods in Barcelona, adored by locals and thus slightly less touristy. Boasting dozens of small bars, restaurants, and boutiques, this upbeat area has wonderful dancing and theater options, too.

True to the Mediterranean, Barcelona sees mild temperatures for the majority of the year. August is the city's hottest and most humid month, with temperatures averaging 77 °F, and January is the coldest month, with averages around 49 °F. Precipitation hovers around 25 inches annually, with October being the wettest month.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January 41 - 57 February 42 - 58 March 46 - 51 April 50 - 65 May 57 - 71 June 63 - 77 July 69 - 83 August 69 - 84 September 64 - 79 October 58 - 72 November 48 - 64 December 43 - 58

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Easter in Barcelona 2024

03/25/2024 - 04/01/2024 | Easter 2024 , Popular festivals and traditions

03/28/2024 - 04/01/2024 | Easter 2024 , Popular festivals and traditions

Festival La Mostra

03/28/2024 - 03/31/2024 | Festivals

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04/02/2024 | Concerts

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04/04/2024 - 04/06/2024 | Main Events 2024 , Festivals

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04/04/2024 - 04/06/2024 | Main Events 2024 , Music

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04/05/2024 - 04/06/2024 | Festivals , Music

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04/09/2024 - 04/12/2024 | Fairs

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Barcelona: a blue city where the sea welcomes you all year round

BCN Life , Seasonal

Barcelona's endless sunny days make the entire spectrum of blues glimmer throughout the year. Barcelona has surprises in store every day, in summer and throughout the other seasons of the year.

Barcelona with women's sport

Barcelona is Mediterranean, modernisme, art, design, culture, food… you already knew that. But did you know that the city also loves sport at all levels? The Barcelona that hosted the Olympic Games in 1992 is a city where people take part in sport at amateur and professional levels and women lead the field in every sporting discipline.

23rd April, Sant Jordi. Find out why you'll want to be in Barcelona.

There's one day every year when travellers and visitors to Barcelona feel like they're on another planet. This is a day when Barcelona is suffused with a different atmosphere and it seems that everybody heads to the streets. So if you're planning on coming to Barcelona and your visit coincides with 23rd April, you're in luck! You'll experience the city on what is arguably the Barcelonians' most cherished day.

Museum Night: art in the moonlight

The Barcelona moon bears witness to thousands of magical nights. Although, if you asked it about La Nit dels Museus (Museum Night), it would say that it casts its own peculiar spell, and has a special magnetism that is hard to explain, making it into a night that nobody, whatever their age, should miss.

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31 Ultimate Things to Do in Barcelona

Looking for the best things to do in Barcelona? With its stunning coastal location, unparalleled architecture, and world-class art, it's easy to see why many fall for city. Here's what to do and see in the Catalan capital.

Barcelona appeals to every type of traveler, whether you’re a foodie, an art enthusiast, a beach lover, or a culture fanatic—it has it all. The ancient and avant-garde intermingle in the Catalan capital, where you can find ancient Roman ruins, trendy bars, and fascinating architectural attractions all within a few blocks of each other. With so many sites to explore, centuries of history to discover, and mazes of narrow streets to get lost in, sightseeing in Barcelona can seem a little overwhelming. Don’t worry; we’re here to help you out by highlighting all the best things to do and see .

Follow this list of the best things to see and do in Barcelona—from marveling at the Modernista architecture to exploring the city’s historic food markets and visiting its fascinating museums, this list will ensure you don’t miss out on anything. Need a place to stay? Check out the Best Hotels in Barcelona .

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BARCELONA? Summertime is hot and sweaty, as well as peak tourist season. May-June and September-October are the best weather months to visit, but summer is great for beaches and festivals.

Please note that the COVID pandemic is ongoing and restrictions may be in place in Barcelona. Visit the  U.S. State Department website , to get the latest advice and information.

Top Picks for You

Browse Barcelona’s Historic Food Markets

Barcelona’s covered markets are both historic spaces and used by locals every day. The most famous of these is La Boqueria , the oldest of the city’s markets dating back to 1863. You can still see many of the traditional stalls, selling a range of local cheeses, cold cuts, olives, and seafood. However, La Boqueria has also become overrun with tourists and many stalls have moved away from traditional produce to selling fruit shakes and novelty chocolates instead. For something a little more authentic, head to the Mercat de Santa Caterina in El Born with its colorful undulating roof, Mercat de Sant Antoni , or the Mercat de la Concepció in Eixample with its vast flower market.

Related: 10 (Mostly) Free Things to Do in Barcelona

Marvel at the Iconic La Sagrada Família

You can’t come to Barcelona without seeing Spain’s most-visited site, La Sagrada Família . Antoni Gaudí’s outlandish church has been in construction for more than a century and is a sight to behold. Despite some controversy around whether the design plans have strayed too far from Gaudí’s original vision, it’s still Spain’s most popular site. It’s not hard to get caught up in the magic of this place, which is said to (finally) be completed in 2026 after 150 years of construction. Fusing Gothic and Art Nouveau styles in unprecedented ways, the basilica also draws on nature as a central inspiration. Inside, the surprises continue with grand tree-like pillars and incredible stained glass.

INSIDER TIP Lines here are notoriously long, so it’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance.

Recommended fodor’s video, discover the santa maria del mar.

To gain some perspective on the antiquity of  Santa María del Mar —and the resilience of Barcelona’s architectonic tradition—consider that each boulder used in the church’s construction was hauled from surrounding mountains and shorelines by ordinary civilians. When the project was finally complete in 1383, 54 years after the first stone was laid, the citizens marveled at what they’d created: a soaring Gothic temple accented with vivid stained-glass panels, illuminated by natural light, and buttressed by sparse, improbably slender columns. Much of the original structure remains today, despite damages to the interior from an 11-day fire that broke out during the Spanish Civil War in 1936.

Related: How to Skip the Crowds and Still See Barcelona’s Top Attractions 

Appreciate the Beauty of El Palau de la Música Catalana

Gaudí may be the most recognizable face of Catalan Modernism, but many of his contemporaries also left their mark on Barcelona. One of them was Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the Barcelona-born architect behind the  Palau de la Música Catalana (Palace of Catalan Music), completed in 1908. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the auditorium’s interior bursts with color, pattern, and texture, all of which culminate in a skylight so vast that during daylight hours, performances take place without the flick of a single light switch. Choral, orchestral, and opera music reign supreme here, but that’s not to say Palau’s program hasn’t featured its share of mainstream artists: Ella Fitzgerald, Norah Jones, and Paco de Lucía have all walked across its stage.

Stroll Down Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is Barcelona’s most famous street—a wide and shady boulevard that runs through the city’s heart from Plaça de Catalunya down to Port Vell. It’s busy, crowded, most bars and restaurants are overpriced and inauthentic, and it’s pickpocket central–despite all this, it’s still worth a stroll. Mostly it’s to see some of the incredible architecture along the way, from the Palau de la Virreina , now housing a contemporary art gallery, to the Gran Teatre del Liceu opera house dating back to 1847, and the gorgeous Umbrella House, covered in Oriental umbrellas and a large Chinese-style dragon. To get a bird’s-eye view of all the action finish your Ramblas route at the 18th-story  mirador  at Columbus Monument for panoramic views of the city and sea.

Related: 10 Stunning Day Trips to Take From Barcelona

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Raise a Glass at Vermouth Hour

On sunny weekend afternoons, neighborhood bars fill up with locals out to  fer el vermut , the Catalan ritual of catching up with friends over a few dainty glasses of this garnet-red aperitif, customarily garnished with an orange slice and an olive. La hora del vermut (vermouth hour) typically takes place just before lunch from around 12-1 pm, and these aperitifs are often accompanied by salty or fishy snacks from chips to plump anchovies or pickled mussels and cockles from a tin. Some of Barcelona’s best vermouth bars, like  Morro Fi , blend their own vermouths by infusing fortified wine with any range of botanicals, but there are plenty of great bottled brands.

Related: 20 Things to Eat and Drink in Barcelona

Get Lost in the Barri Gòtic

No place on earth can hold a candle to Barri Gòtic when it comes to the concentration and breadth of Gothic architecture. The neighborhood’s arcaded, labyrinthine streets empty onto medieval squares such as the historic Plaça del Rei, the atmospheric Plaça Reial, and the Plaça del Pi with its open-air market and artists selling their work . The best way to explore it is to start strolling and get lost trying to navigate its tiny streets. As you wander, look out for century-old stores still selling the same products, such as espadrilles at  La Manual Alpagatera , beautiful candles at Cereria Subirà, and delicious pastries at Pastissería La Colmena .

Related: Barcelona’s Neighborhood Guide

Check out the Fundació Joan Miró

Perched on Montjuïc hill that rises behind the southwest of the city center, the Fundació Joan Miró  was founded in 1975 by the Catalan artist himself to make his art more accessible to the public. Today more than 10,000 of his whimsical masterpieces, from the early Surrealist paintings to the Dada-inspired later works, are on display. Whether you’re inside for half an hour or an entire afternoon, don’t miss the hilarious  Man and Woman in Front of a Pile of Excrement . Yes, you read that right.

Explore Park Güell

Park Güell  is Gaudí’s greatest triumph in urban planning and shows the architect at his most organic. Using the Collserola foothills as his canvas, Gaudí designed an architectural park whose structures (houses, fountains, pillars, walkways) often appear to be extensions of nature. Columns shoot up like tree trunks, arches are jagged like cave openings, and a giant lizard guards its fountain with scales fashioned out of mosaic tiles. As you leave the monumental area and follow the uphill path, let the sweeping views awaiting you at the top be your motivation. As with many Barcelona attractions, you should buy tickets ahead of time.

Discover Masterpieces at the Museu Nacional d’Art

Sure, there are plenty of Baroque and Renaissance masterpieces on display at the  Museu Nacional D’Art de Catalunya  ( National Museum of Catalan Art). It’s even home to one of Diego Velázquez’s most famous portraits,  San Pablo . But what sets this museum apart is the scope of its Romanesque collection, which is one of the most exhaustive in the world and chronicles the pre-Gothic beginnings of religious art in Catalonia. Be sure to seek out the biblical fresco titled  Apse of Sant Climent de Taüll , the crown jewel of the collection.

Admire the Talent of Pablo Picasso at the Picasso Museum

Pablo Picasso may have hailed from Málaga in the south of Spain, but it was Barcelona where he moved at age 14 and apprenticed as a young artist. Housing 4,251 of Picasso’s early works in sculpture, paint, and engraving, it’s a virtually complete representation of his portfolio all the way up to the Blue Period. Picasso’s art isn’t the only draw at the Museu Picasso ; the five adjoining 13th- and 14th-century residences that comprise the museum are precious in their own right.

Walk Along the Elegant Passeig de Gràcia

Besides Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s other most famous street is Passeig de Gràcia, the elegant boulevard that runs all the way up from Plaça de Catalunya to the neighborhood of Gràcia. Here, you’ll find some of the best examples of Catalan Modernista architecture, including Gaudí’s rainbow-colored Casa Batlló and the rippling façade of his La Pedrera. One of the best sections is the Manzana de la Discòrdia, a city block featuring buildings designed by Barcelona’s four most renowned Modernista architects: Antoni Gaudí, Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Lluís Domènech i Montaner, and Enric Sagnier. The “discord,” of course, refers to the rivalry among these architects, each of whom was trying to forge his reputation at the time as a leader of Modernism. By most counts, Gaudí eclipsed his competition with  Casa Batlló , whose undulating façade and kaleidoscopic mosaics make it one of the city’s most emblematic and visited sites. Those with deep pockets will find that Passeig de Gràcia is also one of the city’s best shopping streets.

Explore the Neighborhood of El Born

The neighborhood of El Born lies in between Parc de la Ciutadella and Via Laietana within the Ciutat Vella or Old Town. One of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods, it perfectly blends history and tradition with hip hangouts. Centered around the Santa Maria del Mar church and the Passeig del Born are a collection of cool tapas joints, cocktail bars, and popular restaurants. Down its maze of narrow alleyways are several upmarket boutiques and quirky galleries. Dine on tasty tapas bites at Bormuth , sip on innovative cocktails at Dr. Stravinsky or speakeasy-style El Paradis, and get a takeaway coffee from the city’s best coffee shop— Cafés El Magnifico . Don’t forget to check out the Born Cultural and Memorial Center , housed in the old neighborhood market and now a type of history museum showcasing the ruins of the ancient medieval city below.

Relax on the Beaches of Barceloneta

Barcelona’s beaches are popular fun spaces where locals come to hang out on weekends. Barceloneta and El Somorrostro beaches are very popular with visitors, while Nova Icària and Bogatell are more favored by locals. For a bit of privacy, choose Mar Bella—the city’s nudist beach, where the LGBTQIA+ community like to hang out. After lounging on the beach for a few hours, head to the old fisherman’s district of Barceloneta for excellent paellas at the traditional Can Solé or seafood tapas at La Cova Fumada .

Cheer on Barça at Camp Nou

Millions of soccer fans make the pilgrimage to Barcelona each year to cheer on Barcelona’s home team, Futbol Club Barcelona (“Barça” for short). That level of enthusiasm commands a stadium to match, and  Camp Nou  delivers. The stadium boasts the highest capacity in Europe and can seat nearly 100,000 spectators. Although nothing compares to attending a live game,  Barcelonistas can get a taste of the Barça experience on the guided tour, which brings the game-day rush to life in the “players’ tunnel” that simulates what it’s like to walk into a roaring, full-to-capacity stadium

See the Works at the Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona

There’s so much art history to digest in Barcelona that one might forget to consider the present. Thankfully, the  Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona  ( MACBA), a luminous hall designed by American architect Richard Meier, serves as a reminder. With a collection spanning from the mid-20th century to today, the MACBA is the ideal place to get acquainted with some of Catalonia’s most celebrated contemporary artists and its emerging talent. The square it sits on is also a great spot for people-watching, where the city’s best skateboarders come to perfect their stunts.

Visit Catedral de la Seu

Predating La Sagrada Família by six centuries, the Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia (known informally as Catedral de la Seu) was built as a monument to Santa Eulalia, the co-patron saint of the city. Gargoyles, flying buttresses, and barrel vaults accent this classically Gothic structure, and you can enjoy them from above on a rooftop tour. See if you can spot all 13 geese, said to represent each year of Eulalia’s life before she was martyred.

Chill Out in Parc de la Ciutadella

Barcelona’s best city park, the Parc de la Ciutadella, is a lush 19th-century park built over the previous site of a military citadel. Today, it has become a meeting point for bohemians to gather, musicians to strum their guitars, groups to congregate in the bandstand, locals to dance Lindy Hop by the fountain, and the city’s Senegalese residents’ to play music.  It’s a place for everyone, whether you want to have a picnic with the kids, sit under a tree and read a book, or practice yoga. Visit for a stroll under the trees or a relaxing rowboat ride on the lake, then take a moment to admire the handiwork of the central fountain, a Neoclassical work designed by Josep Fontserè. It’s also home to the impressive crimson-hued Catalan Parliament building.

Go Hiking in the Collserola and the Carretera de les Aigues

Not many cities have a natural park within the city limits, but one thing that sets Barcelona apart is that nature lies within easy reach of the city center. The Collserola Natural Park sits in the hills that wrap all the way around the back of the city. On one side sits Mount Tibidabo and its amusement park , while on the other, the castle-like Torre Baró. Between the two lies the wide Carretera de les Aigues offering incredible views. The whole area is filled with many different hiking and biking routes, which crisscross through the park. You can access the hills from many parts of the city, but one of the easiest is to take the FGC train from Plaça Catalunya to Peu de Funicular to the stop named Carretera de les Aigues.

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Experience Barcelona’s Nightlife

In Barcelona, there’s a party going on at every hour of the night. You could begin the evening in one of the city’s  xampanyerias , such as El Xampanyet or Can Paixano , which are raucous cava bars where locals gather to sip sparkling wine and munch on simple tapas. Next, stop for a cocktail in the many bars hidden around El Born before heading to the buzzing nightclubs. There’s Jamboree for jazz enthusiasts,  Sala Apolo for indie and electronic live music shows, or Razzmatazz , which has five venues in one playing everything from electronica and techno to indie and classic pop. Marula Café  is also a great option for funk and disco jams. Remember that most clubs in the city don’t get going until around 2 am and blast the beats until 6 am.

Get THE View of Barcelona from Atop Mount Tibidabo

Imposing Mount Tibidabo stands overlooking Barcelona and can be seen from many different parts of the city. The highest peak in the Collserola, at over 500 meters, is topped by the magnificent Sagrat Cor church, which shines like a beacon over the city at night. There are several ways to reach the top of Tibidabo, from hikes through the natural park and bus rides, to funiculars and the classic Tramvia Blau , a historic blue tram. The rewards from the top are well worth it and offer one of the best views over the Barcelona cityscape against the backdrop of the cobalt-blue Mediterranean. But it’s not just the incredible views you’ll come here for; there’s also a vintage amusement park .

Eat Your Fill of Tapas

Barcelona is known as a great foodie city where you can sample traditional Catalan fare, traditional tapas, and authentic international bites. But the city is also very “hit or miss” when it comes to finding good food. It’s well worth researching places ahead of time. In El Born, there’s old-timey Cal-Pep with its fresh seafood plates or the industrial-style Bodega La Puntual . In Gracia, there’s the traditional Bar Bodega Quimet packed with tables and surrounded by old wine barrels and vines hanging from the ceiling, while in Sant Antoni there’s cool Bar Calders with its modern bites and excellent wine. In Eixample, you can’t go wrong with El Nacional —a huge 1920s-style elegant hall home to four different tapas restaurants, each specializing in a unique ingredient. If you want to experience the famous Basque tapas alternative of pintxos (small pieces of bread topped with all kinds of ingredients), then Barcelona has a whole street dedicated to pintxos bars on Carrer Blai.

Discover Montjuïc Hill

Montjuïc is a large hill that rises to the west of the city center. It’s home to the city’s Olympic park when it hosted the games in 1992. There are many ways to reach it, but one of the most impressive is climbing up the huge monumental staircase and fountain display from Placa d’Espanya to the magnificent Neo-Baroque palace housing the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya , a temple to Catalan art and design. Another way is to take a cable car ride from the port area all the way up. The hill is dotted with beautiful gardens, including the city’s Botanical Gardens . There are several interesting museums, including the Olympic Museum , the Fundació Joan Miró, and the Catalan Museum of Archaeology . There’s also the fascinating Montjuïc Cemetery,  the final resting place of several famous former Barcelona residents, including Joan Miró and Catalan President Lluís Companys. At the top of it all stands Montjuïc Castle , a 17th-century fortress home to a military museum and incredible city views.

Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau

Just a 14-minute walk from the celebrated Sagrada Familia church is another of Barcelona’s most awe-inspiring sites—the Hospital de Sant Pau . This UNESCO World Heritage Art Nouveau masterpiece is the largest of its kind in the world and was a working hospital up until 2009. Built between 1905 and 1930, it was designed by Barcelona’s other famous architect–Lluís Domènech i Montaner, who also designed the Palau de la Música Catalana. The site is made up of several different pavilions interconnected via underground tunnels, each richly decorated with colorful tiles and mosaics, floral motifs, embellished arches and turrets, and bright stained-glass windows.

Admire the Stunning Facades in L’Eixample

The Eixample District is one of the most elegant parts of the city.  It sits either side of the grand Passeig de Gràcia and is split into Dreta de L’Eixample (right side) and L’Esquerra de L’Eixample (left side). The neighborhood is an architecture lover’s dream. Simply look up, and you’ll be treated to views of some of Catalan Modernism’s best examples. Developed in the 19th-century, the Modernista style is characterized by colorful tiles and mosaics, picturesque facades, and floral motifs. Besides the famous buildings on Passeig de Gràcia, some of the best Modernista masterpieces found in this district include the Casa de les Punxes , Palau Baró de Quadras, and Palau Macaya . But it’s not all about these grand palaces and public buildings; many of the private residential buildings in Eixample are also gorgeous examples of Modernista architecture.

Explore the Neighborhood of Gracia

As you leave the wide boulevards of Eixample and head north, you’ll enter the hip barrio of Gracia,  a series of atmospheric squares surrounded by bars and restaurants and interconnected by small narrow streets. It’s trendy, bohemian, and yet retains its traditional charm. Old family-run tapas bars sit next to Japanese supermarkets and independent cinemas. Whether you’re hankering after delicious Indian dishes, traditional ramen, or Syrian pastries, Gracia doesn’t disappoint. It’s also known for its excellent nightlife options, including everything from Cuban salsa bars to funky cocktail joints. It’s also a great neighborhood for shopping, with its wealth of small independent stores. Beyond food and drinks, visit the first-ever house that Gaudí designed, Casa Vicens , with its sunflower motifs and emerald green tiles.

Explore the Barrio of Poblenou

Poblenou may not be the first of Barcelona’s neighborhoods on your list, as it doesn’t have many major sights, but it’s a lovely local barrio to explore anyway. The neighborhood is split in two: the first part consists of old warehouses transformed into trendy hangouts such as coffee roasters, craft beer halls, and design hubs. The second part is the more traditional section with its own rambla (promenade) reaching towards the beach and lined with attractive Modernista buildings and a great selection of bars and restaurants.

Wander Around Palau Güell

The opulent Palau Güell sits down a narrow street hidden off the side of Las Ramblas. Another of Gaudi’s visions, the Palau Güell, was built in 1888 as the family home for the architect’s patron Eusebi Güell. One of Gaudi’s early works, the palace was considered one of the pioneering buildings of the Art Nouveau movement. From the grand parabolic entranceway and the sleek basement horse stables to the theatrical music room upstairs and the quirky multicolored tiled chimneys on the rooftop, this house delivers in style and wonder.

Visit the Monestir de Pedralbes

For another of the city’s Gothic masterpieces, leave the city’s center and head to the district of Pedralbes in the northwest corner of the city. Built in the early 14th-century, the monastery is an elegant example of Gothic architecture and is set around a serene three-tiered cloister. Today, it offers a peek into life in a convent, enabling you to tour the old refectory, kitchen, stables, infirmary, and grand hall, complete with sleeping quarters. Both guided tours are available, or you can tour at your own leisure, and entry is free on Sundays after 3 p.m. The monastery also houses several excellent temporary changing exhibitions.

Take the Kiddos to the CosmoCaixa Science Museum

A great option for a rainy afternoon or when the heat becomes too unbearable is the CosmoCaixa science museum. Situated in the very north of the city, close to the foothills of the Collserola Natural Park, this vast center features hands-on exhibits covering everything from space and the human body to Antarctica and ancient fossils. There’s also a large section that has been turned into a living Amazon rainforest, complete with live crocodiles and piranha fish, and where it actually rains every 15 minutes.

Experience the City’s Many Festivals

Barcelona plays host to so many different festivals that it’s pretty much guaranteed one will coincide with your trip. Come in April to witness St Jordi Day , a celebration of Catalonia’s patron saint. In June, take part in the fiery Festival of Sant Joan , where fireworks can be seen popping off across the city throughout the night. And in September, it’s time for La Mercè Festival, featuring concerts, street theater, and dance performances. Catalan festivals are unlike the somber religious festivals you’ll find in southern Spain, here, festivals are always vibrant and high energy. Typical traditions that are part of most festivities in Barcelona include dancing giants, castellers (human tower builders), and correfocs (meaning fire runs involving people dressed as devils, spraying giant sparklers through the streets).

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Barcelona   Travel Guide

Why Go To Barcelona

Barcelona contains both the authentically historic and the wildly bizarre. From the scenic trails of the colorful  Park Güell  to the romantic narrow alleys of the Barri Gòtic , this city by the sea seems to attract all types – the adventurer, the romantic, the partier, the culture lover – with an almost overwhelming variety of things to do. You could stay for a few days exploring its architectural marvels, but chances are you'll need a whole week to explore.

And while the beach lures locals and visitors in droves, it’s the cosmopolitan city that really dazzles. Much of the activity revolves around the Ciutat Vella (or Old City), a series of narrow streets and alleys packed with restaurants, cafes and nightclubs, and the home of Las Ramblas – the wide, tree-lined thoroughfare that’s long been the hub of the city.

Just as unmissable are Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces; the architect, famous for his distinctive Catalan art nouveau style was the brains behind the city’s wavy, whimsical creations, from Casa Milà and Casa Batlló to La Sagrada Família . Beyond Gaudí’s influential mark, you’ll find an eclectic shopping scene, a slew of museums, plenty of parks and exquisite food and wine. You see why we suggest a week vacation? To get a lay of the land, consider signing up for one of the city's best guided tours .

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• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in Spain
• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in March 2024
• # 6 in Best Places to Visit in Europe for 2023-2024

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Best of Barcelona

Best hotels in barcelona.

• # 1 in Hotel Arts Barcelona
• # 2 in Cotton House Hotel, Autograph Collection
• # 3 in Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona

Best Things to Do in Barcelona

• # 1 in La Sagrada Família (Church of the Sacred Family)
• # 2 in Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter)
• # 3 in Casa Batlló

Popular Tours

Montserrat, Girona & Costa Brava Guided Day Trip from Barcelona

(915 reviews)

from $ 110.15

Montserrat Monastery Small Group or Private Tour Hotel pick-up

(2076 reviews)

from $ 104.10

Fast Track Sagrada Familia Guided Tour

(5882 reviews)

from $ 57.28

Barcelona Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Barcelona is from May to June, when balmy temperatures in the low to mid-70s mesh with a flurry of festivals that trumpet the advent of summer. The actual summertime is sticky with humidity – locals leave their beloved city in droves to catch a breeze somewhere else. They come back for the fall when the average highs drop back in to the 70s. Winter is mild compared to other Spanish destinations, with highs in the high 50s. And while coming during the spring may seem like smart idea for avoiding crowds, April sees frequent showers, which may put a literal damper on sightseeing plans (most of Barcelona's top attractions are experienced outside). Keep in mind that no matter what time of the year you'll visit, there will be other tourists: Barcelona is the most-visited city in Spain.

Weather in Barcelona

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Don't visit in August Swarms of locals leave the city in August to catch some relief from the sweltering humidity, which means some of the smaller restaurants and shops are closed until September.

Spanish vs. Catalan Most residents who grew up in the region consider themselves Catalan and speak the Catalan language to each other, instead of Spanish. But don't worry – Barcelona is an incredibly international city and most residents are bilingual. Many are also trilingual, especially in the tourist areas.

Cover up at church Religious sites, such as Barcelona Cathedral and La Sagrada Família, ask that visitors cover up knees and shoulders when entering. If you don't have the proper attire on hand, you won't be admitted (although shawls are for sale at the cathedral).

Take a tour According to visitors, one of the best ways to acquaint yourself with the city is to take a guided tour .

How to Save Money in Barcelona

Go big on lunch Eat a big meal at lunch and you can cash in on the menú del día (menu of the day), which is usually an affordable and tasty three-course meal (they’re normally served on weekdays, although some restaurants offer them on weekends too). A similar meal in the evening costs much more.

Don't eat in touristy areas The more-visited parts of the city like Las Ramblas are known to serve mediocre food at exorbitant prices. Instead, venture away from the crowded areas and you’ll find something better for much less.

Stay in an apartment Cut down on food costs by renting an apartment (rather than staying in a hotel), where you can buy groceries and cook your own Catalan feasts.

Culture & Customs

Barcelona is part of the Spanish province of Catalonia, making its culture a little different from what you'd experience in Madrid , Seville  or Granada . The most noticeable difference is the language. In Barcelona, both Spanish and Catalan are official languages; Catalan is not a dialect of Spanish. The language was derived from Latin during the occupation of the Romans several thousands of years ago. While in Barcelona, you'll see street and roadway signs in both Catalan and Spanish as well as some restaurant menus. However, considering Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe, you will likely find English speaking residents in hotels and tourist areas.

Barcelona's official currency is the euro (EUR). Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates often, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops. Like the rest of Spain, tipping is not common in Barcelona. Depending on where you dine, a service charge may be added to your bill. However, if you do want to tip, 10% is more than sufficient. Also similar to the rest of Spain, Catalans eat late and party even later. Restaurants are typically open for lunch between 1 and 4 p.m. and for dinner from 8 to 11 p.m. For locals, dinner usually starts at 9 p.m. at the earliest, going out starts at 12 a.m. and clubs stay open until 5 or 6 a.m. 

What to Eat

In Barcelona, expect to find a mix of traditional Spanish dishes along with Mediterranean-infused Catalonian classics. While here, make sure to sample Spanish staples including jamón ibérico, manchego cheese , tortilla española (potato omelet), gazpacho (cold soup), and patatas bravas (sautéed potatoes typically served with a spicy aioli). And considering the city borders the Mediterranean Sea, you should indulge in paella accordingly. But when in Catalonia, try the Catalan versions of paella. There's arròs a la catalana , which features much of the same ingredients of paella except the dish doesn't use saffron, a key ingredient in Spanish paella. Fideuà is another paella-like dish with a Catalan spin, only instead of rice you get noodles.

Catalonian cuisine is big on meat and fish. And while that may not sound too far off from the rustic, meat-heavy fare found throughout the rest of Spain, the difference here is that the Catalans like to mix both of them together in one dish. Mar i muntanya is the name of the phenomenon ,  so don't be alarmed if while in a restaurant, you notice a dish coming out with chicken and shrimp together on a plate. If that sounds too heavy for your liking, there are plenty of lighter options that are quintessentially Catalan. Grilled vegetables are surprisingly big for a place that loves pork. (Sausage is another staple here. Instead of focusing on chorizo, go for the regional botifarras sausage). One of the most traditional Catalan dishes available is escalivada , which is grilled eggplant and red peppers mixed with olive oil and garlic (sometimes with anchovies) served on top of bread. There's also the vegetarian-friendly, and favored pa amb tomàquet snack, or bread spread with a mix of olive oil, garlic and crushed tomatoes. And if you're visiting from December to early May, seek out a calçot cookout. Calçots are a type of spring onions native to the province, and it's a Catalan pastime to char them on a grill and dip them in romesco sauce. Also part of the pastime? Wearing bibs (often emblazoned with calçots) and eating outside, where the grilled calçots are spread among newspaper. (If that sounds familiar, it's the same way crab and lobster is consumed in the USA.)

Whatever you decide to eat while in Barcelona, make sure to leave room for dessert. Crema catalana is the Catalan version of creme brulee. Cheese is also dessert here. Mel i mató is a goat cheese drizzled with warm honey and accompanied by walnuts. Cava, or Catalan sparkling wine, goes great with these too.

Barcelona is a major tourism hotspot and pickpockets know it. Be mindful of your surroundings especially while touring Barcelona's major attractions. The city sees a moderate rate of conventional crime and principal tourist areas and metros are often the most targeted spots. Men should keep their wallets in their front pockets and carry backpacks in front when traveling on the metro and women should make sure their purses are zipped or secured as best as possible.

Getting Around Barcelona

The best way to get around Barcelona is by metro. A handful of numbered and color-coded lines weave throughout the city, making stops near many of the city's most popular attractions as well as the Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). City buses are also an option for getting around the city, but be aware that ever-present traffic jams make commuting this way rather time-consuming. You could hail taxis on the street, but if you want to burn a few calories, conduct your tour on foot or by bike. Driving is not recommended.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport is required for entry into Spain. The passport must be valid for three months beyond your departure date. Tourists from the United States can stay for up to 90 days without a tourist visa. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's website .

Park Güell is one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona, thanks to its excellent views and colorful atmosphere.

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60 Best Barcelona Travel Tips (Ultimate Hacks and Secrets!)

Traveling to Barcelona can be an unforgettable adventure, but knowing a few clever secrets can make your experience even smoother and more enjoyable. Understanding the city’s nuances, from navigating the metro to discovering hidden culinary gems, can turn you from a tourist into a savvy traveler.

As someone who lives in Spain and who’s spent plenty of time in Barcelona, I’ve compiled some essential Barcelona travel tips that I’ve learned along the way.

But what are these Barcelona hacks, and how can they enhance your visit? In this guide, I’ll share insider tips and tricks that can help you move around the city like a local and find those hidden gems that aren’t in your typical guidebook.

Planning a trip to Barcelona last minute?

If you’re booking your  trip to Barcelona last minute, I’ve got you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

⭐  Most popular sights in Barcelona

• Sagrada Familia – tickets often sell out weeks in advance so get your entry ticket here (or entry tickets AND a guided tour here)
• Park Güell – grab your skip-the-line entry
• Casa Batlló – click here for tickets and audio guide

🌍 Top tours in Barcelona

• Montserrat Tour, Monastery and Winery (great day trip!)
• Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes (incredible night out)
• Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine, and History (all the highlights at once)

🛏️ Top hotels in Barcelona

• Ohla Barcelona (5-star luxury with an amazing rooftop pool)
• Seventy Barcelona (boutique hotel with beautiful décor)
• Àmfores Boutique Guest House (great budget option with superb location)

🚌 Want free public transport while you’re in Barcelona? Check out the Hola Barcelona travel card !

Table of Contents

Best Barcelona travel tips and tricks

1. book accommodation and attractions well in advance.

It’s hardly breaking news to say that Barcelona is popular with tourists – and this means that you can’t expect to just waltz into anywhere you want to see. Sure, it has a laid-back vibe, but when it comes to seeing all the best places to visit in Barcelona , you’ve got to plan ahead. 

In particular, spots like the iconic Sagrada Familia or the magical Park Güell often book out weeks in advance. Don’t be that person who arrives all hyped, only to get turned away at the door.

( Grab your Sagrada Familia tickets here and lock in your entry to Park Güell here .)

So I can’t emphasize enough how much you need to make sure that you book your tickets as soon as you know your travel dates. You’ll thank me later when you’re chilling out in Park Güell, admiring Gaudí’s genius, instead of sulking outside the gates.

The same goes for accommodation. Once you work out which of Barcelona’s neighborhoods you want to stay in , make sure you lock something in quickly – especially if you plan to visit in peak tourist season (which, to be honest, is most of the year now in Barcelona).

Remember, this isn’t about stressing you out before your vacation – it’s about ensuring you get the most out of it. Take a moment, plan ahead, and then when you arrive, you’ll have nothing to worry about except deciding which tapas to try first.

2. Research What You Want to See Beforehand

Another great Barcelona travel tip? Research, research, research. 

Yeah, I know, it sounds boring. But here, it’s the difference between walking through the buzzing stalls of La Boqueria market or staring at its locked gates on a Sunday. 

(Yep, all markets here are shut on Sundays. Imagine the disappointment if you didn’t know that beforehand…)

And it’s not just about the markets. Several attractions have shorter hours during winter, meaning that some places will only be open until the early evening at best. You don’t want to turn up at the Picasso Museum only to discover it’s closing in an hour, right?

Or what if you have your heart set on something to do here, like one of these most romantic things to do in Barcelona , only to miss out?

That’s why I recommend to everyone coming here to sit down with a cup of coffee, fire up your computer, and start researching what you want to see and when it’s open. It’s a small price to pay for a smooth, fun-filled Barcelona experience.

3. Buy Tickets Through Reputable Sites

Let me share an embarrassingly true story with you: I had a friend visit once, and we planned to marvel at the Sagrada Familia. However, Get Your Guide, one of the legit booking sites, informed us that tickets for that day were sold out. 

So, desperate to show her the beauty of the place, I kept searching and found another site selling tickets. Great, amazing, off we go!

Well, long story short, we turned up at the entrance to the Sagrada Familia and found out that, along with a bunch of other people there, we’d gotten scammed. And my friend left Barcelona the next day without stepping foot inside the place.

To avoid being in our shoes, always buy your tickets from reputable sites (for instance, here ‘ s where you get legit tickets for the Sagrada Familia ). It’s easy to get lured into what seems like a great deal or a lucky find, but trust me, it’s not worth the risk. If the official site or well-known travel platforms say it’s sold out, it’s probably sold out.

Don’t let your eagerness to explore Barcelona lead you into a scam. Stick with the tried and true methods, and you’ll have a scam-free, smooth sailing experience in this incredible city.

4. Consider Getting Skip the Line Tickets

In Barcelona, queues are part of the experience. But don’t let that deter you. 

See, I’ve got a little trick up my sleeves: skip the line tickets. With these bad boys, you won’t have to wait in winding queues at popular spots like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Milà, and Casa Batlló. Sounds good, right?

Here’s the deal – these tickets might cost slightly more, but the hours you save are priceless. And that’s especially the case if you’re visiting Barcelona with kids who’ll make the waiting process an absolute dream…

After all, you didn’t come to Barcelona to stand in line. You came to marvel at Gaudí’s masterpieces, soak in the city vibes, and maybe enjoy a glass of cava or two.

So, think about it. Do you want to spend your vacation time staring at the back of someone’s head in a queue, or would you rather be exploring the sights of Barcelona? I think we both know the answer to that.

Skip-the-line tickets you should get:

• Sagrada Familia tickets
• Park Güell tickets
• Casa Batlló entry
• Casa Milà (although if you can only go to either this or Casa Batlló, I’d pick the latter)
• Barcelona Cathedral tickets

5. Going on a Tour is Often More Time Efficient

You might be the adventurous type, preferring to carve your own path rather than follow the crowd. I get it. 

But here’s the thing about Barcelona: it’s a wildly popular tourist city, and navigating it can take up more time than you’d like. So why not consider a tour?

Hear me out. With a tour, you get a fast-track pass to the city’s best sights. You’re taken straight to the highlights , no dilly-dallying or wondering how to get from A to B. 

Plus, many tours come with those handy skip-the-line tickets I talked about earlier. No queues, no fuss, just Barcelona at its finest.

Want a tour where you spend a few hours seeing some incredible historical highlights ? Check out the Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour .

How about a tour with a side of amazing local tapas hotspots and Spanish wine ? Then this Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine, and History is for you.

Or what about a tour that takes you to both the Sagrada Familia and Park Güel l, with fast track entry to both? You should try this Park Güell and La Sagrada Familia Tour then.

Tours aren’t about being spoon-fed. They’re about making the most of your time in this vibrant city. Give it a shot, and you might find yourself pleasantly surprised.

(Plus, some of the tours genuinely offer some of the most fun times you’ll have here. For example, are you looking for the best things to do in Barcelona for young adults ? Well, why not check out this bar crawl …)

6. Check for Free Entry Times at Museums

Psst, want to know one of the best secret Barcelona travel tips? Many of Barcelona’s museums offer free entry at certain times. 

That’s right, you can soak in the culture and history without spending a cent. Now that’s what I call a win-win!

Every museum has its own schedule, so you’ll have to do a bit of homework. Some offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month, others on specific afternoons or evenings. But trust me, the effort is totally worth it.

Just remember to arrive early – you’re not the only one who loves a good bargain. So, grab a cafe con leche, hit the road, and get ready to immerse yourself in Barcelona’s rich tapestry of art and history, free of charge!

7. Give Yourself a Few Days to See Everything

Barcelona isn’t a city you can rush through. Trust me, you’ll want to give yourself a few days to soak it all in. 

There’s so much to see, from Gaudí’s masterpieces to bustling food markets, serene parks, and vibrant neighborhoods. When it comes to how many days in Barcelona is enough, it’s generally a case of the more the merrier.

Plus, Barcelona is about more than just sightseeing – it’s about experiencing the laid-back lifestyle, the buzzing nightlife, the gastronomic delights. 

That’s why you should give yourself time to not just see Barcelona, but to really feel it. The city deserves that, and so do you.

8. Don’t Go in July or August If You Don’t Have To

July and August in Barcelona can feel like a never-ending party, but it’s not always the best time to visit. Think crowded streets, pricier accommodation, and the blistering heat. 

Add to that the fact that many locals escape the city during these months, and you might not get the authentic Barcelona experience you’re craving.

Of course, if you’re working around school holidays, you might not have a choice. But if you do, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons. 

Spring and fall still boast beautiful weather, but with fewer crowds and more manageable prices.

The vibe’s also a little different when the locals are around. The city feels more alive, more… real. 

And isn’t that what travel’s all about? Experiencing a place as it truly is, not just as a postcard-perfect tourist spot.

9. Expect Crowds Even If You’re Going in the Off-Season

Speaking of crowds, let’s get one thing straight: Barcelona is a star, and stars draw crowds year-round. 

Even in the quieter months, you’re bound to rub shoulders with fellow tourists. But hey, don’t let that put you off.

Sure, you might have to wait a little longer for that perfect selfie in front of Casa Batllo. Maybe the line for churros at La Boqueria will be a few people deep. 

But the thing about Barcelona is, it’s worth it. The energy, the vibrancy, the life – it’s like a magnet, and once you’re here, you won’t mind the crowds one bit.

So come prepared. Pack your patience along with your sunscreen, and get ready to share this beautiful city with the world.

10. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle

Let’s chat about hydration. Barcelona can get pretty hot, especially in summer, and staying hydrated is key. 

Instead of constantly buying water bottles (which isn’t great for your wallet or the environment), bring a reusable water bottle with you. You’ll find plenty of spots around the city where you can refill it. 

Plus, carrying a water bottle is also a great reminder to stay hydrated, which is always important when you’re on the move exploring. And hey, less plastic is a win for our planet, too!

One other point: water from the tap in Barcelona tastes, in my opinion, terrible. Don’t worry, it’s completely safe healthwise, but it really doesn’t go down easily.

That’s why I always bring this Brita filtered water bottle when traveling. The filter works so well at getting rid of any weird tastes in tap water , plus the bottle is insulated, so it holds on to the cooler temperature of the tap water even after a long day of wandering around the city.

And the fact it’s BPA-free and comes with a built-in straw is just icing on the cake!

11. Keep a Very Close Eye on Your Belongings at All Times

Now, for a bit of a reality check. Like any big city, Barcelona has its fair share of pickpockets. 

It’s definitely not the nicest part of the city, but it’s important to be aware of. Especially in crowded tourist spots, you’ll want to keep a close eye on your belongings.

This isn’t meant to scare you off, far from it. But a little caution goes a long way. 

Keep your bag zipped up, your phone in your front pocket, and your wits about you. Avoid flashy displays of expensive gadgets or jewelry. Just a bit of common sense, really.

Remember, you’re here to enjoy everything Barcelona has to offer. A bit of mindful behavior will ensure your memories of this city are nothing but good ones.

12. Make Sure You Have Travel Insurance

Travel insurance might seem like one of those boring, grown-up things to worry about, but trust me, it’s essential. Imagine coming to Barcelona, all set for the holiday of your dreams, then you twist your ankle doing the flamenco. Not fun, right?

With travel insurance, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that should anything go wrong, from medical emergencies to lost baggage, you’re covered. It’s one of those ‘hope you never need it, but glad to have it’ things.

Travel insurance is like your safety net, your back-up plan. It’s not about expecting the worst, but about being prepared, so you can enjoy Barcelona to the fullest, worry-free.

13. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Barcelona is a city that demands to be explored on foot. From the Gothic Quarter’s narrow alleys to the wide boulevards of L’Eixample, there’s a surprise around every corner. 

But to discover these treasures, you’re going to need one thing: comfortable shoes.

This isn’t the time to break in your new heels or show off those stylish but oh-so-tight loafers. We’re talking sneakers, comfy sandals, something your feet will thank you for after a day of exploring.

Because the beauty of Barcelona isn’t just in its famous landmarks. It’s in the hidden corners, the local haunts, the surprises you find when you’re wandering aimlessly. 

And for that, you need happy feet!

14. Stay in the City Center

While saving a few bucks by staying on the outskirts might seem tempting, think about this: wouldn’t it be nice to just step out of your accommodation and be right in the heart of it all? When you stay in the city center, Barcelona’s main sights are just a leisurely stroll away.

Planning a trip to Barcelona?

Barcelona is incredibly popular for tourists and so it’s essential to book accommodation well in advance to avoid missing out here . Here are my top picks on the best places to stay for the ideal mix of comfort, convenience and (reasonable!) costs:

⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best luxury accommodation: Ohla Barcelona – amazing rooftop pool, incredible views, and the perfect location to explore the city

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best mid-range accommodation: Seventy Barcelona – the décor of this boutique hotel is so modern and stylish, the rooftop pool is ideal, plus you’ll be near the main sights the moment you step outside

⭐ ⭐ Best budget accommodation: Àmfores Boutique Guest House – the rooms are comfortable, the location is superb and the terrace is a great spot to end your day

Staying central means less time commuting and more time enjoying. You can pop back to your room for a quick siesta or to drop off shopping bags. 

Plus, the city center is brimming with fabulous restaurants, charming cafes, and vibrant nightlife.

In the end, the extra bucks you spend on central accommodation can translate into saved time and convenience. And in a city as great as Barcelona, you want to savor every moment.

15. Use the Metro to Get Around

The Barcelona metro is like a hidden superpower for getting around the city. It’s fast, efficient, and trust me, it’ll be your best friend while exploring. 

From the beach to the bustling city streets, there’s a metro stop near almost all major attractions.

Plus, it’s easy to use. Stations are well-signposted and the lines are color-coded. Grab a T10 ticket for ten rides or, even better, a Hola Barcelona travel card for unlimited travel . With frequent services, you’re never left waiting around.

So while Barcelona’s charm is best soaked up on foot, when it comes to covering longer distances or saving time, the metro is the way to go.

16. If Needed, Use Ride Sharing Apps Rather than Hailing Taxis on the Street

Now, about taxis. Most Barcelona taxi drivers are good folks, but every now and then, you might come across someone looking to take the scenic route, if you catch my drift. 

To avoid this, consider using ride-sharing apps or booking your ride in advance.

The app Cabify is a local favorite and works like a charm. You get your rate and route locked in, so there’s no risk of unexpected detours or inflated fares. It’s simple, efficient, and offers you that little extra peace of mind.

Remember, you’re here to enjoy Barcelona, not to stress about taxi meters. So do yourself a favor and go digital with your ride-hailing.

17. Get a SIM Card When You Arrive to Avoid Roaming Charges

We all know that data roaming can be a real wallet drainer. So, here’s a pro tip: get a local SIM card when you arrive in Barcelona (if you’re coming from outside of Europe). 

It’s cheaper, more reliable, and will save you from a heart-stopping phone bill when you get home.

You’ll find a range of options at the airport or in the city center, offering plenty of data for all your Google Maps and Instagram needs. Plus, with a local number, you can easily book restaurants or call that Cabify ride.

Skip the stress of roaming charges. Grab a SIM card when you land, and keep connected during your Barcelona adventure, hassle-free.

18. Bring a Power Adapter if Needed

Speaking of things to pack, don’t forget a power adapter. The plugs here in Spain are type F, so if your devices don’t fit that, you’re going to need an adapter. 

( This travel adapter is perfect if you’re coming from the US and will work not just in Spain, but most of Europe!)

It’s one of those little things you don’t think about until you’re at your hotel, phone battery in the red, and…surprise! 

That’s why you should definitely pop that adapter into your bag before you head out, and keep your devices charged up for all those amazing Barcelona photos you’re going to take.

19. Don’t Wear Your Backpack on the Metro

Quick word of advice – when you’re riding the metro, keep your backpack in front of you, not on your back. Why, you ask? Well, it’s all about outsmarting pickpockets. 

It’s not that they’re lurking at every corner, but in crowded stations or trains, especially in touristy areas, it’s best to play it safe.

Holding your backpack in front helps you keep an eye on your belongings and makes it harder for anyone with sticky fingers to access your stuff. It’s a small shift in habit that can go a long way in protecting your valuables.

This is why, when you hop on the metro, remember the golden rule: backpacks in front, peace of mind intact.

20. Do a Day Trip If You Have Time

If you’ve got an extra day to spare, don’t just stay in the city – take a day trip! There are some incredible places around Barcelona that you can explore. 

My personal favorite? Montserrat. It’s got a beautiful monastery, stunning mountain views, and hiking trails for all levels.

(Check out this day trip to Montserrat , including lunch and wine tasting at a boutique local winery .)

But if you fancy a bit of city charm, Girona is also an excellent choice. It’s a medieval gem with gorgeous streets, a cathedral, and a vibrant dining scene.

If you’re keen on a hassle-free experience, there’s a full day  Girona and Costa Brava Day Tour  that takes you through the beauty of Girona, lets you soak in the tranquility of the Arab Baths, and then whisks you off to the picturesque village of Pals. 

After meandering through this historic village, you’ll head to Calella Palafrugell for a traditional local meal. And here’s the cherry on top – the tour wraps with a refreshing dip in the waters of the Costa Brava!

Day tours offer a refreshing break from the city hustle and introduce you to a different side of Catalonia. They’re well-organized, hassle-free, and packed with experiences. If you’ve got the time, don’t miss out!

21. Get Used to Spanish Eating Times

When in Spain, do as the Spaniards do, right? This couldn’t be more true when it comes to meal times. 

Here, they like to have lunch a bit later, usually around 2pm. And dinner? Don’t even think about it before 9pm.

These timings might feel strange initially, but you’ll adjust. In fact, it’s part of the fun! The late meals lend a relaxed, leisurely pace to the day that you might just end up loving.

Plus, it syncs up perfectly with the local customs – perhaps a snack in the afternoon following a late lunch, followed by an evening of exploration, and then a late-night dinner. 

Come with an open mind and an adjustable appetite, and experience Barcelona like a true local.

22. Try an Experience Outside of the City Center

Barcelona isn’t just about Gaudí and gothic quarters, there’s a whole world waiting beyond the city limits! 

How about a sailing trip, for instance? Barcelona’s coastline is stunning, and seeing the city from the water gives you a whole new perspective.

Plus, there’s nothing quite like the Mediterranean breeze in your hair. Check out my favorite sunset sailing cruise for an afternoon to remember.

Or, if you’re a wine lover, consider a visit to the vineyards near Barcelona. Catalonia is famous for its wine, especially the sparkling Cava. In this winery tour to the famous Penedès wine region , which is always one I like to recommend to people, you’ll head to two boutique wineries with tastings of three wines and four types of cava  followed by a  4×4 adventure tour of the historic 2,000 year old vineyards .

A winery tour like this not only lets you sample these delicious wines but also offers a glimpse into local life and traditions.

So dare to venture outside the city center. The reward is unique experiences that will make your Barcelona trip truly special.

23. Take Advantage of All the Tapas on Offer

Let’s talk about the crown jewel of Spanish cuisine: tapas. These small dishes are perfect for sharing, and are a fabulous way to sample a variety of flavors. 

From patatas bravas to gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns), the tapas scene in Barcelona is an adventure in itself.

And don’t worry if you can’t decide what to order. The beauty of tapas is that you can try a bit of everything! 

The easiest way to do this is simply to gather your friends, order a spread, and discover your new favorite dish. Tapas isn’t just a meal, it’s a social experience, a celebration of food, and it’s waiting for you to dive in!

Or you could get an expert to show you the local hotspots with an organized tapas crawl! The  Barcelona Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine, and History  is definitely my top pick.

Strolling through the Gothic Quarter, tapas in one hand, local wine in the other as you learn all about the incredible history around you…safe to say, it’s a great way to spend a few hours.

24. Use the Aerobús to Get From the Airport, Not a Taxi

When you land in Barcelona, resist the urge to hop into a taxi. Instead, take the Aerobús to the city center! 

This bus service is incredibly convenient, reliable, and much more affordable than a taxi. It runs every 5-10 minutes both to and from the airport, so you won’t have to wait long, plus there’s WiFi and USB chargers on board. 

And they have the added bonus that you’ll get to enjoy some of the Barcelona scenery on your way in. Save the taxi fare for some of those amazing tapas you’re going to try!

You can buy a ticket at the airport or get an Aerobús ticket here to not have to worry about anything when you land.

25. Don’t Eat Paella for Dinner

Heads up, foodie travelers: paella, that delicious Spanish rice dish you’ve been dreaming about, is traditionally a lunchtime meal. 

Yes, you heard right. It’s a hearty, filling dish, meant to be enjoyed leisurely in the afternoon, not for a late-night dinner.

Paella is a labor of love, slowly cooked and savored under the Spanish sun. And since it takes time to prepare, most restaurants make it in the morning, meaning the lunchtime paella is the freshest.

That’s why I’d suggest you stick to the local customs and enjoy your paella for lunch. It’s all about timing!

And to really take your paella experience to the next level, why not try a paella cooking class led by an expert chef – specifically, I love this Paella Cooking Experience and Boqueria Market Tour .

You’ll start with your chef guiding you through La Boqueria market , showing you how to pick the freshest ingredients. From there, you’ll be shown how to make your very own paella (and sangria!) before getting to enjoy all your hard work!

It’s a great way to experience the culinary culture of Barcelona – and find out how to make paella when you go home!

26. Try Tinto de Verano Instead of Sangria

Sure, sangria is famous worldwide as Spain’s signature drink. But let me introduce you to a local favorite: tinto de verano. 

Translating to “red wine of summer,” this refreshing mix of red wine and lemon soda is a staple at Spanish get-togethers. You’re much more likely to find a local drinking this, with many of them leaving sangria to the tourists.

Tinto de verano is light, refreshing, and less sugary than sangria. It’s the perfect companion for a hot Barcelona afternoon, a plate of tapas, and good company.

So while sangria might be the star, don’t miss out on the understudy. Give tinto de verano a try and get a sip of local life.

27. Be Aware That There are Two Co-Official Languages in Catalonia

Here’s a fun fact: Catalonia, the region Barcelona is part of, has not one but two co-official languages. Along with Spanish, you’ll hear a lot of Catalan. 

Signs, menus, street names – they might all be in Catalan, and that’s part of the local charm!

But don’t worry, while Catalan is widely spoken, everyone also speaks Spanish, and many people speak English too. The important thing is to appreciate the bilingual nature of the region. It’s a unique aspect of Catalonia’s rich cultural identity.

28. Don’t Be Worried About Speaking Spanish to People

I’ve heard some visitors worry about offending locals if they don’t speak Catalan. But let me assure you, there’s absolutely no issue. 

While Catalans are proud of their language, they don’t expect visitors to know it (and that includes Spaniards from other regions in Spain!). Speaking Spanish, or English for that matter, is completely fine.

In fact, any attempt at using the local language, whether it’s Spanish or a few words in Catalan, is always appreciated. Remember, it’s not about fluency, but about connecting with people.

29. Don’t Say That Catalan is a Dialect of Spanish

While Spanish and Catalan have their similarities, it’s important to know that Catalan is not a dialect of Spanish – it’s a separate language entirely. Locals feel strongly about this distinction, and it’s a crucial part of their cultural identity.

Catalan has its own unique grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation rules. That’s why it’s always a good idea to keep in mind that, in Catalonia, you’re essentially in a bilingual region. Appreciating this linguistic diversity will only enrich your travel experience.

30. Don’t Come with Any Assumptions About the Catalan Independence Movement

The topic of Catalan independence is a complex and sensitive issue, with deep historical roots and divided opinions. As a visitor, it’s essential to approach it with an open mind. 

Don’t come with any assumptions or stereotypes, but do feel free to ask questions if you’re genuinely interested.

Locals, while passionate about their views, are usually open to discussions as long as they are respectful and curious. So if it comes up in conversation, listen, learn, and respect the varied perspectives. 

After all, understanding local contexts is a big part of traveling, isn’t it?

31. Don’t Necessarily Expect People to Speak English

In Barcelona, English isn’t as universally spoken as you might think. Sure, in the city center and among the younger generation, you’re likely to find plenty of English speakers. 

But it’s not a guarantee, especially among older folks, in local neighborhoods, or with taxi drivers.

That being said, language shouldn’t be a barrier to enjoying your trip. Learn a few Spanish phrases, use your hands, smile a lot – you’ll be surprised how far you can get.

32. Don’t Tip (Or Don’t Tip Very Much)

In Barcelona, tipping isn’t as customary as you might find in other countries. Locals usually either don’t tip at all or just leave a few coins on the table to round the bill up to the nearest 5. 

So, if you’re feeling generous after a good meal or excellent service, by all means, leave a tip! But don’t feel obliged to leave a hefty amount. 

When in Barcelona, do as the Barcelonians do!

33. Visit the Gothic Quarter (But Not in the Middle of the Day)

Ah, the Gothic Quarter, a maze of winding streets, historic landmarks, and charming cafés. It’s a must-visit, for sure. 

But take my advice: avoid the middle of the day, when it’s jam-packed with tourists. The charm of the Gothic Quarter lies in its leisurely exploration, and that’s hard to do when you’re elbowing your way through the crowds.

Instead, visit early morning or late afternoon. The quieter streets will let you savor the historic atmosphere, peek into hidden courtyards, and perhaps discover a secret or two. 

34. Sometimes Wandering the Streets is Nicer Than Rushing from Sight to Sight

I’ve gotta tell you, sometimes the best parts of Barcelona aren’t listed in any guidebook. Yes, the famous sights are incredible, but don’t forget to take time to simply wander. 

Meander through the labyrinthine streets, absorb the rhythm of local life, grab a coffee at a terrace cafe, and watch the world go by. You might stumble upon a cool vintage store, a lively local market, or an unforgettable street performance. 

Remember, travel isn’t always about ticking off a checklist – sometimes it’s about those little, unplanned moments that make lasting memories.

35. Spend the Money to See at Least the Main Sights

Barcelona’s iconic sights are worth every penny, I promise! While tickets can sometimes feel a little pricey, remember, you’ve traveled all this way, so make the most of it. 

The awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, the whimsical Park Güell, the beautiful Casa Milà and Casa Batllo – each offers an unforgettable glimpse into the genius of Gaudí. 

Yes, admiring them from the outside is cool, but seeing the intricate interiors is an entirely different ball game. So if you can, splurge a bit and explore these marvels from the inside.

The sights I’d really recommend you see from the inside are:

• Sagrada Familia – a no brainer. Book early though, as tickets frequently sell out weeks in advance
• Park Güell – definitely worth walking throughout this mammoth Gaudí work
• Casa Batlló OR Casa Milà – you don’t necessarily need to go inside both, but one is worth your time and money. I’m inclined to pick Casa Batlló out of the two as the interior is incredible, but it’s very much up to you in the end

36. Check the Weather Beforehand

Barcelona is famous for its sunny skies and mild weather, but hey, it can throw a curveball sometimes. It might get chilly during winter, and evenings in fall and spring can be a bit cool too. 

That’s why you shouldn’t forget to check the weather forecast before you pack. A light jacket or a cozy scarf could make all the difference during an evening stroll by the beach or a night out in the vibrant city. 

After all, being comfortable is key to enjoying your trip to the fullest!

37. Keep Copies of Your Passport and Credit Cards Saved Somewhere

Let’s talk about something practical, but oh-so-important – keeping copies of your passport and credit cards. 

Trust me on this one. Having digital copies stashed away somewhere accessible, like Google Drive (which is what I do), can be a real lifesaver if, touch wood, you lose the originals. 

With these copies handy, you’ll be able to sort things out much faster. Plus, it’ll give you that extra peace of mind, which we all could use while traveling, right?

38. Don’t Forget Sunscreen (And a Hat, Ideally)

Got sunscreen? Good! You’re gonna need it. 

Despite its coastal vibe, Barcelona’s sun can be quite intense, especially during the summer months. Don’t underestimate it. 

Slap on some sunscreen before you head out, even if it looks a bit cloudy. Your skin will thank you! 

And hey, while we’re at it, a hat wouldn’t hurt either. It’ll give you that extra bit of shade and keep you cool while exploring the city. 

39. Bring a Crossbody Bag, Not One That Goes Across One Shoulder

Let’s talk bags. If you’re thinking of bringing that trendy one-shoulder bag or that large tote…you might want to reconsider. 

A crossbody bag is the way to go in Barcelona ( this crossbody bag is perfect both for comfort, having enough space for the necessities, and looking good at the same time!). It’s easier to keep an eye on and harder for any potential pickpockets to snatch. 

Not to mention that it leaves your hands free for those must-have gelatos or impromptu photos. Security, convenience, and style? Yes, please!

40. Have Some Cash on Hand (But Not Too Much)

Now, about money. Most places in Barcelona accept card payments, but it’s a good idea to have some cash – euros, specifically – in your pocket. 

You never know when you’ll stumble upon a cute little market stall, a street musician you want to tip, or an old bar that only takes cash. 

But remember, don’t carry too much at once. You don’t want to risk losing it or catching unwanted attention. 

Just a small stash for those cash-only moments will do the trick!

41. Get a Bank Card Before Arriving That Doesn’t Have International Fees

Alright, let’s talk cards. If you’re planning to use your regular bank card in Barcelona, double-check those international fees. 

They can really add up and nobody likes unpleasant surprises when they get home. If your card charges these fees, it might be worth getting a travel-friendly card that doesn’t. 

There are plenty out there and they can save you a decent chunk of change. So, do your homework before your trip and make your wallet happy.

42. Try to Avoid Eating Anywhere With Someone Calling You from Out the Front

Here’s a fun food tip for you. If you see a restaurant with someone out front trying to lure you in, maybe think twice. 

Don’t get me wrong, you could still have a decent meal there, but often these places tend to be more about quantity than quality. Instead, seek out the spots where locals are dining. 

If you see a crowd of Barcelonians enjoying their meal, chances are you’ve hit the culinary jackpot.

43. Don’t Eat Somewhere With Stock Photos Showing Their Food

Oh, and speaking of food, if you see a restaurant displaying stock photos of dishes…take a rain check. A good rule of thumb in Barcelona, and really anywhere, is to trust eateries that let their real food do the talking. 

Places that use stock photos are often targeting tourists and the food might not be as fresh or authentic as you’d like. Trust me, Barcelona’s culinary scene is top-notch, so don’t settle for anything less than amazing.

44. Avoid Restaurants on La Rambla

La Rambla is one of those must-visit places in Barcelona. It’s vibrant, it’s buzzing, it’s… maybe not the best place for a meal. 

Most restaurants on La Rambla cater mainly to tourists, so they might not offer the most authentic or value-for-money experience. Instead, try exploring the side streets and nearby neighborhoods. 

You’ll find loads of hidden gems serving lip-smacking local cuisine. You can always save La Rambla for the walk and the atmosphere, but do your taste buds a favor and eat elsewhere.

45. Make Sure You Know Which Airport You’re Flying Into or Out From

Barcelona has more than one airport, so make sure you’re crystal clear on which one you’re flying into or out of. Trust me, you don’t want to end up at the wrong one when you’re rushing to catch a flight! 

The main airport is Barcelona El Prat, but some budget airlines might use Girona or Reus, which are quite a bit further out. Double-check your tickets and plan your transport accordingly (don’t forget the Aerobús as I mentioned before for getting to and from Barcelona’s main airport – it’s super convenient and really good value!) to avoid any unwanted airport adventures.

46. Don’t Go to Barceloneta Beach for a Beach Day

You’re in Barcelona and you want a beach day? I get it. 

But let me tell you, Barceloneta isn’t the only option. It’s popular and close to the city, sure, but it also gets packed and it’s not the cleanest. 

Instead, why not try one of the city’s other beaches, like Nova Icaria or Mar Bella, or even head a bit further up the coast to Ocata. They’re less crowded, cleaner, and just as easy to reach.

Your beach day will be so much better, promise!

47. If You Go to the Beach, Don’t Leave Your Belongings on the Sand While You Swim

While we’re on the topic of beaches, here’s another tip. It might be tempting to leave your bag on the sand while you take a dip, but it’s not the best idea. 

Pickpockets know that beach-goers often leave their stuff unattended, and they can be quick. 

Instead, consider leaving valuables at your accommodation and bring only what you need. Or better yet, take turns swimming with your travel buddies, so there’s always someone keeping an eye on your stuff.

48. Don’t Rent a Car If You’re Staying in the City

Renting a car in Barcelona? Not necessary, my friend. 

The city’s public transportation system is efficient and covers all the major sights. Plus, finding parking can be a headache and expensive. 

If you’re planning a day trip outside the city, you may want to hire a car for just that day. That said, there are plenty of buses, trains, or even organized tours that can get you there without the stress of driving. Save your nerves and the environment – go public!

49. Separate Your Garbage

When in Barcelona, do as the Barcelonians do and separate your garbage. Here, you’ll see large groups of bins on every few corners throughout the city which the locals use to separate their trash into paper, plastic, and organic waste. 

It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference if you do the same. So do your part to keep Barcelona beautiful, and sort your trash. We love a responsible traveler!

50. Be Mindful of Street Performers and Artists

Street performers and artists add a unique flavor to Barcelona’s bustling streets. From musicians to living statues, they’re part of what makes Barcelona, well, Barcelona. 

If you stop to watch a performance, consider leaving a small tip. It’s not much for you, but it can mean a lot to them. 

After all, they’re working hard to brighten up your day, so show them some love!

51. Don’t Come Here Expecting to See Bullfighting

Okay, let’s clear this up – bullfighting isn’t a thing in Barcelona. In fact, it’s been banned in Catalonia since 2010. 

And sure, even if it’s legal elsewhere in Spain and you’re planning to travel to another region after your Barcelona trip, I’d still recommend steering clear when you get there. There are so many other aspects of Spanish culture to enjoy that don’t involve animal cruelty. 

Instead of watching a bullfight, why not catch a flamenco show, or learn about local history in one of Barcelona’s many museums?

52. Don’t Spend Too Much Money on Wine Here

Spanish wine is awesome. Period. And the great news is, it’s often much cheaper than in other countries. 

So don’t feel like you have to splash out to enjoy a good glass of vino here. Whether you’re a fan of red, white, or rosé, you can find fantastic local wines that won’t break the bank. 

It’s one of the best things to do here actually: grab a bottle, find a nice spot, and enjoy the Spanish wine experience without the hefty price tag.

53. Try Some Cava

And speaking of drinks, don’t leave Barcelona without trying some cava. It’s a sparkling wine from Catalonia, and it’s absolutely delicious. 

You’ll find it at pretty much any bar or restaurant, and it’s the perfect accompaniment to a relaxing evening or a celebration. 

Plus, it’s another great way to enjoy the local flavors without overspending. Cheers to that!

54. Be Aware That a Lot of Places Are Closed on Sundays

Here’s something to keep in mind: in Barcelona, many shops and businesses close on Sundays. It’s a day for rest and family time, you see. 

For this reason, plan your shopping and certain sightseeing accordingly. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do on a Sunday, like exploring parks, hitting the beach, or enjoying a leisurely brunch. 

And hey, the slower pace might just give you a glimpse into the local way of life!

55. Get a Reservation for Dinner

When it comes to dining in Barcelona, it’s always a good idea to make a reservation, especially for dinner. Restaurants can fill up quickly, particularly the popular ones. 

You don’t want to miss out on that hot new spot you’ve been drooling over, right? So, pick up the phone or book online to secure your spot. It’s a small step that can make your mealtime a breeze.

56. Don’t Wear Beachwear in Barcelona City

Let’s talk about attire. Barcelona might be a beach city, but that doesn’t mean beachwear is suitable everywhere. 

Walking around the city in your swimsuit isn’t really the done thing here. Dressing appropriately shows respect for local customs, and it also helps you blend in a bit more. 

That’s why you should save the bikinis and flip flops for the beach, and opt for something a bit more city-appropriate when exploring the town.

57. If You Plan to Go Clubbing, Expect to Start in the Early Morning Hours

And if you’re planning a night out on the town, remember this: Barcelona’s club scene doesn’t really kick off until late. We’re talking midnight at the very earliest. 

Yep, the party here starts late and goes on until the early hours of the morning. So, don’t rush! 

Have a late dinner, enjoy a pre-club drink, and then hit the dance floor when the night is really getting started. You’ll fit right in with the local partygoers.

58. Avoid Paying for Expensive Hotel Breakfasts

Eating at your hotel for breakfast? Think again! 

While it may be convenient, hotel breakfasts in Barcelona can be pretty expensive. Instead, step out and explore the local bakeries and cafes for your morning meal. 

Trust me, you’ll find a wealth of options that aren’t just cheaper but also offer a taste of the local culture. Fresh pastries, Spanish tortillas, café con leche… sounds like a perfect start to the day, right?

59. Read up on Catalan Christmas Traditions if You’re Visiting over the Holidays

Heading to Barcelona over the holidays? A little homework on Catalan Christmas traditions will go a long way. 

Here’s a summary: two of the main characters that feature in the holiday season around here are the caganer and caga tio . And both have a very strong affinity to poop.

I’m not even joking, look it up. It’s super weird and hilarious and yet treated completely normally here. Get yourself a quick Catalan Christmas crash course and get ready to buy the best souvenirs ever for everyone at home.

60. Avoid Airbnb

This might come as a surprise, but it’s worth mentioning: Avoid Airbnb when booking your stay in Barcelona. 

The surge of short-term rentals in the city has resulted in increasing rents for the locals, creating a bit of a problem. 

But don’t fret, there are plenty of other accommodations, from boutique hotels to guest houses, that can offer an authentic Barcelona experience without contributing to this issue. 

Remember, being a responsible traveler also means supporting local communities!

What’s your ideal Spanish vacation spot?

Are you a foodie or history buff? Prefer to chill at a beach or explore the city?

Whatever your travel style, discover the perfect Spanish city to add to your trip here!

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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Home » Europe » Spain » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Barcelona | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Barcelona | Destinations & Tips for 2024

Barcelona was one of my first ever solo destinations, right behind Lisbon, and to say I was a little nervous is a huge understatement.

As a girl who could only say uno mas cerveza and gracias, Spain was about to teach me a whole lot of lessons. But, my trip also become one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had!

Barcelona is one of the most popular cities in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. The city is full of gorgeous architecture, the warm Spanish sun, and, of course, all the tapas you can eat.

It’s a perfect destination for solo travellers looking to experience a gorgeous blend of cultures and have loads of fun. And trust me, you won’t be the only one.

Barcelona welcomes almost 10 million visitors each year, and if you stay in hostels, it feels like 50% of those visitors are solo travellers. Yay, for us! The dorms are filled with people from all ages and different walks of life, and they really bring the solo travel in Barcelona to life.

So, if you’re planning your solo trip to Barcelona, let’s get some questions answered: Here’s your ultimate guide to solo travel in Barcelona.

9 Things to Do in Barcelona When Travelling Solo

4 best solo destinations in barcelona, the best travel apps for solo travel in barcelona, safety tips for solo travellers in barcelona, tips for solo travelling in barcelona, final words for your solo barcelona trip.

When travelling in Barcelona , not a day goes by where there isn’t something to do. Whether you want to explore the city, watch a footy game, join a food tour, or even take a day trip to a nearby town.

Here are just a handful of some of my personal favourite must-do activities for solo travellers in Barcelona. There are plenty more awesome things to do in the city that I couldn’t fit on this list – just some inspo for ya’.

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1. Take a Walking Tour

There are so many cool places to visit in Barcelona, and the best way to see them all is by taking a walking tour of the city. A walking tour is usually free, making it perfect for solo travellers on a budget, and it will allow you to meet other solo travellers whilst staying in Spain .

Walking tours typically start in the Gothic Quarter and will take you to some of the city’s most famous landmarks. These tours won’t give you entry into the places you visit, but they will provide an overview of the city’s history and architecture.

2. Visit the Iconic Sagrada Familia

Did you really visit Barcelona if you didn’t visit the famous Sagrada Familia? The Basilica is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and is a must-see for solo travellers in Barcelona. And somehow, after 100+ years, it’s still unfinished. (I’ve heard rumours this is so they don’t have to pay property tax.)

But that doesn’t make it any less spectacular. You will have to buy tickets in advance as only a certain amount of people can enter per day and you would hate to miss out on seeing this masterpiece. This is a great activity to do solo, as the audio tour guide will let you go at your own pace, and you won’t have to worry about keeping up with a group.

3. Get Lost in Park Guell

Visiting Park Güell is one of my favourite things to do in Barcelona . The iconic park is full of gorgeous sculptures, cool buildings, and amazing views of the city. You can spend hours here wandering around and exploring. Tickets are also limited, and you can either buy just an entry ticket for 10 Euros or you can join a guided tour if you’re looking to meet other travellers.

During the summers, there can be some long ass lines to the park, and in the Spanish heat, woof, you’ll definitely need a sangria after. But you can book a skip-the-line ticket and bypass all the sweaty tourists.

4. Take a Spanish Class

If you have a little bit more time in Barcelona on your solo trip to Spain, I highly recommend taking a Spanish class. Learning a new language is always fun. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture, meet some friends, and feel more confident travelling around the city solo.

While everyone speaks at least a little English, being able to order in español will give you a little confidence boost and allow you to experience the city more fully. You can find language schools all over the city, with many offering flexible schedules for travellers.

5. Join a Paella Cooking Class

Ah, paella—the most beautiful sight in all of Spain. The delicious rice dish is the national food of Spain, and it’s a must-try while in Barcelona. I dream of this dish on the regular.

Joining a cooking class is a great way to take a little piece of the culture home with you, as you’ll be able to make it for yourself and your friends after your solo adventure. In this cooking class , you’ll join others and visit the famous Mercat de la Boqueria. You’ll try some yummy tapas, and have a full night of cooking, laughing, and downing some Sangria with new friends.

6. Stay Up All Night on a Bar Crawl

One of my fondest memories of my first trip to Barcelona was joining a bar crawl that my hostel put on one night. Led by solo travellers who are volunteering at the hostel, this is a great way to meet other travellers and see one of the best party cities in Europe come alive at night.

Typically, it’s a walking tour, or maybe you’ll take the metro. Anyway, you’ll go from bar to bar, taking shots of the famous absinthe and playing some silly drinking games that involve ping pong balls and lots of alcohol. And then, most likely, you’ll end up at one of the best clubs in the city and dance until the wee hours of the night.

7. Take a Day Trip to Montserrat

About an hour outside of the city, you’ll be transported into a different Spanish world, and it’s freaking awesome. Montserrat is a monastery that’s nestled into the side of a mountain, and it’s worth the trip for both the views and the experience.

You can take a train from Barcelona to Montserrat or go on an organized tour, which is what I did. (I highly recommend this one .) You’ll ride a train, visit the Royal Basilica, and meet other travellers who are interested in Renaissance-era architecture and magical views.

8. Eat Some Tapas

Barcelona and tapas seriously go hand in hand. Tapas are the perfect meal whether you’re travelling solo in Barcelona or you’re joining a group of friends. Some places have all kinds of dishes stacked up on the bar ready for you to take, or you can order off a menu.

It’s kind of like a choose-your-own-adventure meal with lots of small plates that everyone shares. But once you get the hang of it, it’s super easy to just get exactly what you want and try a little of everything, all while drinking a yummy sangria.

9. Catch a Tan at the Beach

Going to the beach is one of my favourite things to do when I’m travelling solo. It doesn’t cost any money, I can stay as long as I want, and all I need is a good book, and I’m set.

And the beaches in Barcelona are perfect for a hot summer day. Usually, they’re packed with locals and tourists kicking around a soccer ball, playing volleyball, or just relaxing with friends.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Barcelona has loads of neighbourhoods to stay in , but when travelling solo, some are just better than others. Where the streets are lively, where there’s always something to do or somewhere new to explore.

Here are my favourite neighbourhoods for solo travellers in Barcelona:

Gracia Neighborhood

Gracia is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Barcelona. It’s near Park Guell, and while it’s a little bit outside of the city centre, it’s perfect for getting an authentic feel of what it’s like to live in Barcelona.

Gracia is very laid-back and relaxed, with lots of local cafes, restaurants, and bars to explore. During the day, you can wander through the narrow streets lined with colourful buildings and boutique shops.

It’s definitely a lot quieter than La Rambla (from which I still have nightmares) or the Gothic Quarter. But, it’s close enough that you can easily get to the busy parts of the city in no time with the metro.

At night, Gracia comes alive with a younger crowd. There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, with live music and cheap drinks. One of my favourite things about this neighbourhood is the Plaça del Sol, it’s one of the oldest squares in the neighbourhood. Locals gather in the evenings to chat, drink, and enjoy the warm summer nights.

It just feels so homey here. It’ll have you asking yourself if you should move here.

My favourite hostel in Gracia for solo travellers in Barcelona is Yeah Barcelona Hostel . The dorms are a bit more expensive than some of the other hostels, but the atmosphere is epic for solo travellers. They offer loads of group activities and even family dinners so you can meet others staying at the hostel.

Barri Gotic Neighborhood

Barri Gotic is typically every tourist’s first choice when choosing where to stay in Barcelona for solo travellers. It’s one of the most famous neighbourhoods in the city, and it’s filled with old and historic buildings, narrow streets, and charming squares. It’s a great place to get lost in and explore on your own.

The neighbourhood is full of history, with many important landmarks such as the Barcelona Cathedral and Plaça de Sant Jaume. The Gothic Quarter is also where a lot of walking tours and other guides start their journey, making it easy to meet up with other travellers.

This is where I stayed my first time in Barcelona, and it was absolutely epic. You will find amazing restaurants, all kinds of shopping, and some great rooftop bars. But after a few days, the business of La Rambla and the hectic tourist scene can start to feel a bit overwhelming but for a few days, it’s awesome for solo travellers.

Itica is a small hostel right off of Cathedral Square and is perfect for exploring all of the must-see tourist attractions. And because the hostel is smaller than some of the others in the area, it makes it easy to meet friends when you’re travelling solo.

El Born Neighborhood

If you’re looking to experience the insane nightlife in Barcelona, then I highly recommend staying in the El Born Neighborhood. This is one of the cheekiest (in a good way) places for solo travellers to stay. The area used to be a bit dodgy in the 90s, but it’s had a total revamp and is now one of the best areas to go out.

But El Born isn’t all sangria and partying. It’s also a cultural hub for art galleries and museums. During the day, exploring is a must. The neighbourhood has medieval streets, and the cafes are usually full. It’s home to the Picasso Museum, where you can check out Picasso’s first pieces of art. Or you can join this fun wine and tapas tour through the neighbourhood.

This hostel is the best option for staying in El Born, it’s only about a 10-minute walk from the beach, and they are regularly setting up outings with the hostel, making it easy to meet people. They also offer free family dinners that typically lead to a walk to the nearby bars. The building is a bit older than some of the other hostels in this guide.

El Poble-Sec Neighborhood

I mainly include the El Poble-Sec Neighborhood because it’s home to one of the best hostels in Barcelona . Don’t worry, I’ll include it below.

This neighbourhood is located near the Montjuic Hill and has a lot of green spaces. It’s a quieter area compared to El Born, so if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, this is the place for you.

Just about every street you turn down, tapas bars are pouring out into the streets. You can get a cheap pitcher of Sangria, and it’s typically filled with locals trying to get away from the tourists in the city centre. (Sorry, not sorry!)

The neighbourhood is a little quirky with a bit of a boho vibe. This makes it perfect for anyone who likes to spend their days lounging around in cafes and exploring lesser-known neighbourhoods.

Oh, and I can’t forget the hostel. Onefam Paralelo is just about every solo traveller’s favourite hostel in Barcelona. The rooms might be small, but their family dinner and bar crawls are big and always a hit. Plus, it’s located right next to the metro station, making it easy to get around the city.

Here are some of my favourite travel apps that you HAVE to download before travelling solo in Barcelona.

• TMB App : This is your one-stop shop for figuring out Barcelona’s public transportation systems.
• Holafly  – An e-SIM app to download a data-only SIM card – without installing a physical SIM card.
• Google Translate : For obvious reasons, this will help you travel to Barcelona like a pro.
• Citymapper : This app is perfect for planning your route from point A to B.
• Hosteworld : One of the easiest places to book accommodation for solo travel is on Hostelworld.
• Booking.com : Another great place for booking places to stay. Often with some fat discounts.
• Medieval BCN : Get the low down on all of the historic sites with this app. It will guide you through the Gothic quarter, Roman ruins, and other must-see landmarks.
• Tinder : Look, if you’re in a relationship, probably best to discuss this with them first… But aside from the obvious fuck and fly, Tinder while travelling has many uses. Apparently, it’s not just for finding a quickie!

I love a good app that helps me have the best time – give some of these a go; why not?

Stop stressing about your phone service when you travel abroad.

Holafly is a digital SIM card that works smoothly like an app — you simply pick your plan, download it, and voilà!

Roam around Europe, but leave the roaming charges for the n00bies.

Barcelona is generally safe . You aren’t in any serious danger, but your possessions may be. For example… Barca’s Apple Store stays busy with all of the pickpocketing that goes on in these streets.

The US Travel Advisory advises that you exercise increased caution when visiting Spain. But based on my personal experiences, I would say that this is excessive and that standard safety precautions are sufficient.

To be honest, I personally wouldn’t say Barcelona is any more unsafe for a woman travelling alone than a man: I wouldn’t recommend anything different. But most problems actually happen to men who think they’ll be fine. So the buddy system is always best.

If you’re checking out the late-night scene in Barcelona, make sure to watch your drinks. Spiking is a low risk, but a risk all the same. Enjoy a night out, but don’t get legless.

As most standard travel safety advice goes, don’t walk at night. While the streets are pretty busy well into the night, it’s really easy to make a wrong turn.

• Stay in a hostel . I can’t recommend this enough. This is the easiest way to make friends while travelling solo in Barcelona.
• Try Couchsurfing . If you’re on a super tight budget, this is la creme de la creme in Barcelona.
• If you get up early Sunday morning, you can get into Sagrada Familia for free for mass. Look, it’s really supposed to be for the service: make your own morals on that one.
• Keep a few days (and nights) open . A lot of the activities in Barcelona require booking tickets but it’s much more fun to explore the city with new friends – so be flexible!
• Download offline maps before you go out. This will ensure you always know where you are and can confidently navigate your way back to your hostel or Airbnb.
• Always be aware of your surroundings , and definitely don’t walk around in the dark alone. Safety in Barcelona isn’t where it should be for a European city.
• Share your travel plans with someone at home and keep them updated on your plans.
• If you don’t want to visit some “must-visits”, don’t go! There’s nothing wrong if you aren’t keen on spending your money on fancy dinners.
• Don’t skip out on insurance . Getting travel insurance that covers Europe is essential. I know it’s easy to think, “Well, I’m not even going to use it,” but unfortunately, things can happen.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Barcelona is one of the best cities in Europe, and it’s even better when you’re travelling solo. It’s full of opportunities to meet people, be inspired by the warmth of the Spanish culture, and, most of all, have some fucking fun!

The days are filled with adventuring around the city, giving you the chance to meet some other travellers that can easily turn into some nighttime companions… at the clubs, you dirty-minded thing.

But in all seriousness, Barcelona is a city that you have to see for yourself. You’ll never regret solo travel in Barcelona, and the memories you make will last a lifetime. And if you follow this guide, I’m positive you’ll have an epic solo trip!

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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for Solo Travel Over 50

Ultimate Guide to Barcelona Solo Travel (2024)

UPDATED 3/15/24

Traveling solo can be a liberating experience and it doesn’t get much more freeing than soaking up the sultry Mediterranean vibes of Barcelona. If you’re looking to explore this vibrant city on your own, then you’ve come to the right place.

From riding the metro like a local to enjoying leisurely walks through culinary hotspots, find out how you can travel Barcelona with ease this ultimate , one-stop-shop Guide to Barcelona Solo Travel.

Compiled from my first-hand, solo travel to Barcelona, this guide has all things Barcelona travel tips with bonus budget travel tips, eco-travel tips, and more throughout.

When done, you’ll not only be confident to plan your solo trip to Barcelona, Spain, but book it as well. Let’s get you to Barcelona.

This Barcelona Travel Guide is intentionally written for the solo traveler, the first time Barcelona traveler, and/or older traveler (I am over 50 and have been solo traveling FOREVER) in mind. Yet, anyone can use this travel guide it to plan and book Barcelona travel.

Like this? Share it with others!

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. For products, the goal is to first provide direct links to eco-friendly, ethical, and sustainable companies, and then to those same type (i.e., Climate Pledge Friendly Certification ), of brands that use Amazon, if possible. Therefore, you may see multiple links for one option. Should you make a purchase through any link, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. See my Disclaimers & Disclosures and Privacy Policy for more information.

Ultimate Spain Solo Travel Guide

What is barcelona known for, best time to visit barcelona, getting to barcelona, getting around barcelona, is barcelona safe for solo travel, barcelona travel packing essentials, where to stay in barcelona on solo travel, 5 must dos in barcelona spain video, more top things to do in barcelona, beyond barcelona, best booking sites for barcelona, how to get the best of barcelona in 3 days, download the barcelona 3 day itinerary pdf, download the barcelona 4 day itinerary pdf.

If you need more Spain travel tips to supplement your Barcelona travel planning, consult my ultimate Spain Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more to plan solo travel in Spain.

Large, historical, and happening, finding the right things to do alone in Barcelona, Spain for your trip could seem overwhelming. I’ve got you covered. Here’s my fabulous Barcelona 3 day Itinerary perfect for first-time Barcelona solo trip to help you get planning your solo travel in Spain. Better yet, get the instant download of the Ultimate Barcelona 3 Day PDF .

Best of Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary (2024)

More spain travel guides & itineraries.

• Best of San Sebastian in 2 Days (or 3) Itinerary
• Ultimate San Sebastian Solo Travel Guide
• Pamplona in 1 Day Itinerary and Guide
• The Ultimate Madrid Solo Travel Guide
• The Best of Madrid in 3 Days Itinerary
• 7 Best Europe Beach Destinations for Solo Travelers

Barcelona is the capital of the Catalunya (Catalonia region) and Spain’s 2 nd largest city.

Located on the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona has 4.2 km of sandy beaches, it makes it one of the best beach destinations in Europe .

Barcelona also boasts 66 museums, FC Barcelona and 11 other football (soccer) clubs, two official languages (Catalan and Spanish), has over 1.6 million residents and attracts 7.5 million visitors a year (at the time of this writing).

Barcelona is home to amazing cuisine, architecture, including Roman, and art.

Famous people from Barcelona include Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Antoni Gaudí, Pau Gasol, Gerard Piqué, Arantxa” Sánchez Vicario, José Carreras, and Daniel Brühl, to name a few.

Barcelona also hosts two UNESCO World Heritage sites:  the Palau de la Música Catalana and Hospital de Sant Pau , and the collective works of Antoni Gaudí , all of which are huge tourists draws.

Barcelona Weather & Costs

Barcelona temperatures average from high 50°s F to 70° F, with warmest weather in the summer months of July and August. These are also Barcelona’s most humid months, when locals tend to leave but tourists pour in and drive up prices.

The fall shoulder season months of September and October are Barcelona’s rainiest. Consider bringing an eco-friendly travel umbrella if you go during these months.

December through February are the coldest months but offer fewer tourists and may be the cheapest time to visit Barcelona.

My latest solo travel Barcelona was in early October. It was cloudy with very little rain. The days and nights were still warm, and there weren’t many tourists. 

You may prefer May or June for your Barcelona visit instead. Daylight hours are long, the weather is warm, there are still fewer tourists than in the height of summer, and there are plenty of things to do in Barcelona, including festivals like Sonar in June.

I would recommend visiting Barcelona in the shoulder season months of May, June, September or October.

Barcelona Events

When planning a trip to Barcelona, I suggest checking Barcelona’s festivals and holidays calendar to help determine when is the best time for your solo travel in Barcelona .

All prices reflected at time of writing.

Flying into Barcelona

The closest airport serving Barcelona is the Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN), aka Barcelona Airport.

Barcelona Airport is serviced by most major and European airlines. International and domestic flights arrive at Terminal 1. Low cost carriers arrive at Terminal 2.

The Barcelona Airport is 15 km south of Barcelona city center. If you do not have access to an airport shuttle from your hotel, there are several other transportation options from the Barcelona Airport to Barcelona city center.

You could get a Barcelona Airport rental car , (but have to deal with city center parking), hire a private one-way or round-trip airport transfer , a luxury airport transfer , or rideshare or taxi (including Uber, Bolt and Lyft), which may cost €25 to €30.

The following eco-friendly transportation options, however, will save you money if you are traveling Barcelona on a budget.

Reserve Early to Get a Cheap Flight to Barcelona

Eco travel tips.

Skyscanner  provides a ‘Greener flights’ filter highlighting flights that emit less CO2. Additionally, you can purchase carbon offsets  through your airline  to lower your carbon footprint.

Barcelona Airport Train

The RENFE train leaves the Aeropuerto station every 30 minutes. The train takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the Passeig de Gràcia station. There you switch to a metro for the Plaça Catalunya station, which should be within walking distance to your hotel or hostel. Train tickets are approximately €5.

Barcelona Airport Metro

The orange L9 metro line leaves Barcelona Airport every 7 minutes from both the Aeroport T1 and Aeroport T2 metro stations. The metro takes approximately 35 minutes to arrive at Plaça Catalunya station, but with transfers required. Tickets cost approximately €5.

Barcelona Airport Shuttle

The  Aerobus  service is an express bus service direct to the city center. The A1 bus leaves Terminal 1 and the A2 bus leaves Terminal 2. Both depart eery 5 to 10 minutes. You arrive at the Plaça de Catalunya bus stop at the El Corte Inglés department store in about 30 minutes for €5.90.

Barcelona Airport Bus

The TMB airport bus (no. 46) also leaves from Aeroport T1 and Aeroport T2. With several stops, this bus takes longer to reach the city center, but one-way tickets are only €2.40.

The Barcelona Card

Purchasing the Barcelona Card (aka the Barcelona Pass) is a great option for airport to city center transportation plus attractions.

The Barcelona Card covers 25 museums and attractions in Barcelona, including 50% off admission to attractions like Gaudi’s Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, skip the line entrance, free public transportation, and can be bought for 3, 4 or 5 days in Barcelona.

Get your Barcelona Card in advance , exchange your voucher at one of the designated locations and times, and then zip from the Barcelona airport to the city center.

Bus or Train to Barcelona

Barcelona receives many trains and buses daily, which are quick, inexpensive, and eco-friendly ways to reach Barcelona.

Buses usually arrive at the Barcelona Estació de Sants or Estació de Nord. Trains arrive at one of the two main stations, Estació de Sants or Estació de França, depending on your departure point.

For example, on my last trip to Spain, I traveled from Pamplona to Barcelona by train with the train arriving at the Barcelona Sants station.

You can take a metro from any of these stations to Plaça de Catalunya.

Trainline Provides Cheap Train and Bus Tickets to Barcelona

For flights only 2 to 3 hours in duration to and from Barcelona, take the train or bus instead. It could also save time and money, and the scenery is much prettier.

When hiring a rideshare, choose the  Bolt Green  or  Uber Green  options, or use  Carpoolworld , to support the use of electric cars and carpooling for cleaner transportation in Spain.

More Eco Travel Tips & Ideas

• 25 Must-Have & Eco-Friendly Solo Beach Trip Essentials
• 15 Eco Long-haul Flight Essentials for Solo Travel
• Top 10 Eco-Friendly Carry On Luggage
• 10 Best Eco-Friendly Personal Item Bags for Flying
• 10 Top Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Swimwear Brands
• 10 Easy Ways to Be an Eco-Friendly Traveler

Barcelona by Metro or Bus

Barcelona is a large city and some top sights can be quite a distance from each other. Taking the Barcelona metro is highly recommended to cover a lot of ground in a short period of time.

The Barcelona metro is extremely easy to use. Tickets can be purchased in each station. There are 12 metro lines which include access to the public buses.

One way tickets within a zone are less than €3 each way. If you need assistance, just ask a booth attendant. Many speak English and happy to answer your questions.

Another way to see more of what’s in Barcelona in a short period of time is the Barcelona Hop On Hop Off bus . Tours like these are ideal for large cities like Barcelona.

This bus is very popular in Barcelona because it covers 2 to 3 different routes around Barcelona encompassing all of the top Barcelona sights and attractions.

Buy your 24-hour or 48-hour bus ticket in advance to save time during peak season. Buses depart centrally from Plaça de Catalunya.

Avoid taking a taxi or Uber to explore Barcelona. Instead, see Barcelona by public transportation, a Hop-on Hop-off bus , foot, bike or electric scooter .

The Barcelona Card & More

Remember the Barcelona Card ? Keep this in mind for way to get access to public transportation for 48 hours or more with access to 25+ Barcelona attractions.

Buying the Hola Barcelona Public Transport Travel Card is another option to get free, unlimited access to Barcelona transportation in the city and suburbs. The Hola Barcelona card can be purchased for increments of 48, 72, 96, or 120-hours.

Barcelona Transportation Options for 2 Days or More

Is barcelona walkable.

Although extensive, a large portion of the Barcelona city center is flat, which makes Barcelona optimal for walking.

Many must sees in Barcelona can be accessed by foot, however, especially if you stay within the Old City. To save time on your Barcelona itinerary, walk Barcelona by neighborhoods.

If you want to learn more about Barcelona or its incredible food and wine, consider a historic walking tour or food walking tour of Barcelona . There are private and group tours available. Again, group tours do provide that additional chance to meet others when traveling Barcelona alone.

Best Barcelona Group Walking Tours

Best barcelona private walking tours, barcelona by bike or scooter.

Barcelona is also ideal for biking and scooters due to the designated paths. You’ll see many bike and e-bike rental stands, and e-scooters, throughout Barcelona. Consider renting a bike for a quicker way to zip through Barcelona like a local.

Barcelona Travel Tip

Always look both ways when crossing streets, even if you think the street is ‘one way’. Bicyclists and scooter riders really move and can seem to come out of nowhere. Be aware of your surroundings.

Save Time and Book Your Barcelona Bike in Advance

Want to ride around Barcelona, but not alone? Barcelona has e-scooter , segway , and bike or e-bike tours , too. These tours are eco-friendly and a great way to learn more about Barcelona and meet new people while traveling alone in Barcelona. At any age.

Top Barcelona Biking Tours and More

Barcelona by water.

The Barcelona coastline also provide for scenic boat rides that can be done inexpensively. Explore Barcelona cruises to get a different view of Barcelona day or night.

Top Barcelona Cruises

Barcelona’s crime rate is considered moderate. It is safe to walk alone during the day but be more aware walking at night.

As a solo female traveler in Barcelona, I practiced general precautions and stayed within well-lit and populated streets at night. As such, I never felt unsafe in Barcelona as solo traveler.

During high tourist season, in crowded areas or on crowded public transportation, ensure to keep your belongings safe and securely on you with no open pockets or carrying cash or valuables in your pockets.

If you normally feel uncomfortable being out solo at night, you may want to visit Barcelona when the daylight hours are longest so you have more time to explore Barcelona.

Solo Travel Tips

Have WhatsApp on your mobile device(s). Many smaller establishments and activity/tourism offices use this as a method of communication making it easier to make inquiries or booking and learn, or notify, of any scheduling changes.

Get the T-Mobile International Plan or something similar in price and features. I no longer work on WiFi only on international travel. I’ll use it when it’s there, but having access to roaming when needed for GPS and Google Maps is a game changer.

More Solo Travel Tips & Ideas

• How to Plan Your First Solo Trip:  Step 1
• How to Choose Your First Solo Trip Destination
• How to Create a Solo Travel Budget
• How To Save Money for Solo Travel
• Top 10 Tips on How to Do a Solo Beach Trip
• 10 Must Know Planning Tips for First-Time International Travel

I’m not one to tell someone else how to pack, but there definitely some solo travel essentials I would recommend taking on your solo trip to Barcelona, like the following.

This list of travel essentials combined can make your Barcelona travel easier and more memorable while being friendlier to the environment.

Ciutat Vella (“Old City”) holds the oldest neighborhoods in Barcelona .

The Old City is nestled between the l’Eixample neighborhood (south of the Grand Via de les Corts Catalanes) and Mediterranean Sea, and between the Poble Nou and Sant Antoni neighborhoods.

This district is comprised of the El Raval, Barri Gotic, La Ribera, El Born, Port Vell, and La Barceloneta neighborhoods.

In such a large city, it is more convenient to be closest not only to the top Barcelona attractions accessible by foot, but also accessible by the Barcelona metro and bus stops, including the Hop-on Hop-off bus .

The Old City, specifically within the El Raval and Barri Gotic neighborhoods, is the Barcelona district in which to reserve your Barcelona accommodation , especially for first time travel to Barcelona alone, as indicated on the map below.

Of course, you can stay outside this section of the Barcelona city center, but it may just add time and more transportation costs to this Barcelona solo travel itinerary, depending on what you ultimately see and do in Barcelona.

Barcelona Hotels and More

There are multiple Barcelona city centre hotels and hostels across all budget types. Going in the off season, or booking well in advance, will get you the best Barcelona prices on any type of accommodation.

Consider booking at a property that either is eco-friendly or sustainable rated , or at least employs these methods into their business.

Barcelona Hotels

For location, price, breakfast, amenities (including free-cancellation), eco-friendly and sustainable operations, and customer reviews and ratings, here are my Barcelona hotel recommendations for solo travel (i.e., where I would stay):

• Hotel Turin
• Arc La Rambla
• Exe Ramblas Boquería
• Petit Palace Boqueria Garden
• Hotel Sant Agustí
• Hotel Cantón
• H10 Raco del Pi
• Aparthotel Arai 4* Superior

I believe Hotel Turin is in the best place for solo female travel in Barcelona, including being walkable to the beach, La Rambla, and Barcelona nightlife and dining. Plus, Hotel Turin is a Travel Sustainable rated hotel at a good price ( book well in advance ) with friendly staff, fabulous breakfast buffet. I enjoyed my stay at Hotel Turin in Barcelona and would recommend staying there.

In addition to Booking.com’s Barcelona city center Travel Sustainable properties , Green Globe and Green Key Global also have eco-friendly certified lodging options.

Reserve Early for the Best Price in Barcelona Accommodations

Barcelona hostels.

Hostels in Barcelona city center are an option for solo travel in Barcelona on a budget. Using the same conditions above, and the ability to get a private room, here are my recommendations for best Barcelona hostel for solo travellers:

• Pars Teatro Hostel
• Alternative Creative Youth Hostel Barcelona

Find the Best Deal on Barcelona Hostel Private Rooms

Budget travel tips.

There are Barcelona hostels that could start from around €20-30/night, depending on what amenities and location you want. Note, these are usually a bed in a dorm room. A private room in a Barcelona city center hostel could cost the same, if not more, than a budget hotel.

What would a Barcelona Solo Travel Guide be without listing the best things to do in Barcelona?

Start with these must sees in Barcelona video. This taste of solo travel in Barcelona will have you booking your flight to Barcelona .

Ways to Do Barcelona MUST DOs

There are simply too many Barcelona attractions to list in this Barcelona travel guide alone.

However, here are some more top things to see and do in Barcelona to try to pack into your Barcelona travel itinerary. Some may be free, but for those that aren’t, don’t forget the Barcelona Card – it covers many of these.

If you want to know how to see most of them on your first time travel, use my Best 3 Days in Barcelona Itinerary . If you have 4 days in Barcelona, even better.

Churches & Cathedrals

• Basílica de la Sagrada Familia
• Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar
• Catedral de Barcelona (Barcelona Cathedral)

Barcelona Travel Tips

You cannot buy a La Sagrada Familia ticket on location. You must buy your La Sagrada Familia ticket in advance online , with a set entrance day and time.

If you do not do a tour you can download the official audio tour app in advance for a free.

Architectural Buildings & Historic Sites

• Casa Batlló
• Casa Amatller
• The Palau (Palace of Catalan Music)
• Casa Milà – La Pedrera
• Camp Nou (tours not available until November 2024)
• Casa Vicens
• Palau Güell
• Castell de Montjuïc (Montjuïc Castle)

Barcelona Landmarks, Points of Interest & Monuments

• Las Ramblas
• Rambla de Catalunya
• Plaça de Catalunya
• Rambla del Mar
• Mercat de la Boqueria
• The Magic Fountain
• Passeig de Gracia
• Plaça d’Espanya
• Plaça Reial
• The Placa del Rei
• Mirador de Colom (Columbus Monument)

Museums & Aquariums

• Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC)
• Museu Picasso (Picasso Museum)
• Parc de Montjuic
• Fundació Joan Miró (Joan Miró Foundation)
• Museu d’Historia de Barcelona (MUHBA)
• L’Aquarium de Barcelona (Barcelona Aquarium)
• Museo Diocesà de Barcelona (Diocesan Museum)

Best Barcelona Museum and Aquarium Ticket Options

Parks, gardens & beaches.

• Parc de la Ciutadella
• Parque del Laberint d’Horta
• Platja de la Barceloneta (Barceloneta Beach)

More Solo Beach Travel

• 25 Must-Have Solo Beach Trip Essentials
• Top Tips on How to Do a Solo Beach Trip
• Best 3 Days in Split Croatia Itinerary
• Belize Solo Travel: 7 Things to Know Before You Go
• Best of Zakynthos Greece in 3 Days Itinerary

Barcelona Food & Entertainment

Barcelona has some of the top cuisine in Spain. From fine dining to fresh seafood to tapas and sangria, you can find whatever you want to sample in any of the many Barcelona neighborhoods. Here are the ’10 best’ restaurant ideas in the notable neighborhoods to get you started:

• Restaurants in Barri Gotic
• Restaurants in La Barceloneta
• Restaurants in El Born / La Ribera
• Restaurants in Barri de Gracia
• Restaurants in Port Vell
• La Ramblas Restaurants
• Rambla de Catalunya Restaurants

La Rambla is popular for restaurants and bars that line the streets or are slightly off La Rambla.

The Gothic Quarter and El Born are also popular for bars, cafes, and tapas and Barcelona nightlife. More nightlife, and popular with students is Placa del Sol in the Barri de Gracia.

You can’t go wrong hanging out at La Boqueria for fresh food and drinks.

Best Barcelona Food Tours and More

Avoid using single-use plastics when dining, shopping and on food tours in Split to reduce trash and your carbon footprint by bringing your own reusable collapsible travel bags , collapsible water bottle , recycled plastic water bottle carry sling , and bamboo travel utensils so you’re prepared to travel with the planet in mind.

I always travel with the above items. Light weight and taking up very little space in my carry-on bags , I love the convenience and peace of mind these inexpensive, eco-friendly products provide.

Top Barcelona Nightlife and Flamenco

If you have time or want to explore more of the Spanish coastline, I suggest taking a day trip from Barcelona, or two. There are multiple, top Spanish travel destinations all within an hour or two from Barcelona.

Best Day Trips from Barcelona

Here is a summary of the best booking sites I recommend you bookmark and use to successfully book your travel to Barcelona, Spain. I use just about all of these for most travel locations. I even gave you my suggested Barcelona hotel .

These booking sites give you multiple travel options and awesome travel deals for all travel budgets. They will certainly help get a jump on your trip to Barcelona.

For the best travel deals, always book early .

• Cheap Flights to Barcelona
• Best Barcelona City Center Hotels
• Best Barcelona City Center Hostels
• My Barcelona Hotel Pick
• Barcelona Train Tickets
• Barcelona Bus Tickets
• Barcelona Airport Car Rentals

Don’t forget to check out Barcelona ecotourism ideas and use my Spain Travel Guide complete your Barcelona travel planning and booking.

Now that you know you are fully prepared to explore Barcelona, would you like an itinerary idea to get you going? Check out my Best of Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary perfect for first time solo travel to Barcelona.

Better yet, why not save a tone of time planning and download the Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary and Guide PDF instantly? A solo female traveler of 28 years, you know I traveled Barcelona solo. This Barcelona Itinerary is from my actual, tried and true self-created and traveled Barcelona itinerary, not AI-generated with stock photos, so you know it’s an itinerary you can trust.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, older traveler, or budget traveler, this B arcelona 3 Day Itinerary and Guide PDF is a steal . Formatted for sleek use on all devices, it has clickable links to all of the below , taking out all of the guesswork for your Barcelona visit:

• Arrival transportation methods,
• Barcelona Airport transportation to the city center,
• Local transportation methods, including the Hop On Hop Off bus, walking and e-bike tours,
• City center accommodations recommendations (including budget stays),
• What to eat and where to eat dining suggestions,
• Dining apps,
• City, historical and food walking tours,
• The Barcelona Card,
• Top things to do and attractions you’ll be doing in Barcelona in three days with clickable walking maps for easily getting around Barcelona each day,
• CORR Travel Spain and Barcelona Travel Guides,
• Barcelona events and holiday schedule, and
• Eco-travel and ecotourism resources.

Have one more day in Barcelona? Get the same great Barcelona Travel Guide with 4 Days in Barcelona Itinerary PDF .

Let Me Hear From You

I would love to hear if my ultimate Guide to Barcelona Solo Travel was helpful in planning your solo travel in Spain. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comments section below. Thank you!

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2 thoughts on “the ultimate guide to barcelona solo travel 2024”.

Hey there! I just finished reading your Barcelona solo travel guide, and I wanted to drop you a comment to let you know how much I enjoyed it. Your guide is an absolute gem for solo travelers looking to explore Barcelona and have an unforgettable experience.

I appreciate how you addressed the unique aspects of solo travel and provided practical tips for navigating the city on one’s own. From safety advice to recommendations for meeting fellow travelers, your guide offers invaluable insights for solo adventurers.

Your itinerary suggestions for exploring the city are fantastic. I love how you highlighted the must-see attractions like La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, while also suggesting off-the-beaten-path spots that offer a more authentic experience. The inclusion of lesser-known neighborhoods like Sant Antoni and El Raval is a great way for solo travelers to discover hidden gems and connect with the local culture.

I also want to commend you on the solo-friendly activities you recommended, such as joining a walking tour or taking a cooking class. These suggestions not only provide opportunities for solo travelers to meet like-minded individuals but also allow them to immerse themselves in Barcelona’s rich history and culinary scene.

Moreover, your tips on solo dining and enjoying the city’s nightlife solo are incredibly helpful. From trying tapas at local bars to experiencing the vibrant music and dance scene, you’ve provided solo travelers with a wealth of options for embracing Barcelona’s social atmosphere.

Thank you for sharing your expertise and insights on solo travel in Barcelona. Your guide is a valuable resource that will undoubtedly inspire and empower solo adventurers to embark on their own memorable journey. Keep up the fantastic work, and I’m excited to read more of your travel guides and recommendations in the future! Learn more: https://tourstravelfinder.com/tour_destination/barcelona/

Thank you. I will make a note to check out your tours at my first availability, but in the meantime, I’ll also leave your link here for my readers to see them as well. – Gwen

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Barcelona Travel Guide

SD › Barcelona Travel Guide Updated: May 5, 2022 By Santorini Dave

La Sagrada Família Basilica is the symbol of the city, the final masterwork of the modernist architect, Gaudí, as well as his final resting place (he is buried in the crypt). Redesigned by Gaudí in 1883 and built under his direction until his death in 1926, the still unfinished cathedral is slated for completion in 2026 and will include the addition of 10 more spires.

Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia and the second-largest city in Spain. The city is best known for its striking architecture (a mix of modernist and Catalan Gothic styles), its wealth of art from Romanesque to surrealism, its all-star football team, outstanding food culture, and gorgeous seaside and mountain landscapes. With balmy weather almost year-round, Barcelona makes a wonderful year-round destination, though it especially shines in the late spring and early fall months. The Barcelona Travel Guide Skip to our Barcelona FAQ Barcelona Basics Where to Stay in Barcelona Best Time to Visit Barcelona Barcelona Hotels Best Hotels in Barcelona Best Hotels in Barcelona for Families Best Budget Hotels in Barcelona Best Boutique Hotels in Barcelona Barcelona Airport Hotels Barcelona Hotel Map Barcelona Activities Best Tours & Things to Do in Barcelona Best Restaurants in Barcelona Best Bars in Barcelona Best Tapas Bars in Barcelona Best Barcelona Shops & Markets Barcelona with Kids Barcelona Trip Planning Barcelona Ferry Guide Barcelona Airport Transportation Frequently Asked Questions about Barcelona Where is Barcelona? Barcelona, often shortened to Barça, is the capital of the Catalan autonomous community in northeastern Spain. This coastal city sits on the Mediterranean Sea; its 2000-year-old port is among the ten largest and busiest in Europe. 1.6 million people live inside the city limits, and an additional 3.2 million live in the surrounding metropolitan area. Barcelona sits 140 km south of Andorra, 200 miles north of Mallorca, 280 km northeast of Ibiza, 300 km northeast of Valencia, 330 km southwest of Marseilles, 460 km southwest of Monaco, and 500 km east of Madrid. Barça has direct, high-speed trains connecting it to dozens of cities within Spain and 12 cities in France. Barcelona’s ferries connect the city with Mallorca, Ibiza, Italy, Morocco, and more. Barcelona’s 2000-year-old port and the Barceloneta neighborhood, as seen from Jardins del Mirador on Montjuïc Hill. When is the best time to visit Barcelona? Overall, the best months to visit Barcelona are during the first two weeks of March, anytime in May, and from mid-September through the end of October. These times offer the best combination of less crowded attractions and good weather, though October can see some rain. Avoid visiting in the height of summer when the weather can be scorching, crowds tend to be thick, and lines at attractions run long. The winter months (November through early March) are best for cheaper room rates, deals on flights, and thinner crowds. In general, January is the coldest month; August is the hottest. October is the wettest month; June is the driest. The famous FC Barcelona football team competes from late August through late May (with a break a the end of December); games tend to fall on weekends. What is Barcelona known for? According to myth, Barcelona was founded by Hercules, who was struck by the area’s natural beauty after his Fourth Labor, helping Jason and the Argonauts find a lost ship. Barça still boasts an enchanting landscape, now filled with whimsical modernist and Catalan Gothic architecture. The coastal city is well-loved for its beaches, with white sand stretching out for three miles. The city is famously a modern art hub, with world-class museums featuring early works by Picasso and the surrealist masters Dalí and Miró. The city’s rich culinary tradition is based around seafood, pork, Mediterranean vegetables, and sweet-savory sauces; don’t miss a chance to try fideuà (a local paella-like dish made with short noodles instead of rice). In local sports, football (soccer) is king. The city’s Camp Nou Stadium is the largest football stadium in Europe and home to the legendary FC Barcelona, consistently ranked one of the world’s best teams. What are the best areas to stay in Barcelona? The 14th-century Barcelona Cathedral is the quintessential model of Catalan Gothic architecture, the dominant building style of the 13th through 15th centuries. The Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) is the oldest part of the city and is filled with medieval buildings and charming lanes. Though the city is divided into several districts, most travelers will want to stay in one of Barcelona’s central neighborhoods for easy walking or public transportation to the city’s best hotels, dining, attractions, and shopping. The most central and best all-around for first-timers, families, and romantic occasions is Barri Gòtic , the oldest part of the city, a warren of medieval lanes and Catalan Gothic architecture that’s been inhabited since Roman times. El Born sits east of Barri Gòtic and offers similar ease of access to excellent dining and sights, plus it’s closer to the city’s beaches and adjacent to Parc de la Ciutadella and the Barcelona Zoo. For shorter trips, upscale Eixample is a smart choice with top luxury hotels convenient to the city’s main attractions, including Gaudi’s masterful Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and La Pedrera; the neighborhood Sant Antoni is part of Eixample, packed with many of the city’s best restaurants, lively tapas bars, and upscale cocktail bars. El Raval is the best spot for living like a local. This former red-light district offers an artsy vibe with museums, independent galleries, vintage boutiques, trendy restaurants, and lively tapas bars. To the east is coastal Barceloneta , popular for its long, white-sand beaches, low-key and excellent-quality seafood restaurants, a top-tier aquarium, and the scenic cable car up the hill to Montjuïc Park with its rambling gardens, castle, museums, and panoramic viewpoints. At the northern base of Montjuïc lies Poble Sec known for its trendy vibe, tapas bars, and live music venues fringing the foodie street Carrer de Blai. On the south end of Poble Sec, there is a cable car up to Montjuïc Castle. For a slower pace and artsy atmosphere away from the noise of the city center (yet with easy bus access), Gràcia is an excellent area. Home to Park Güell, Gaudi’s largest work – a 17-hectare public park, beautifully landscaped and filled with outlandish architecture, tile mosaics, and sculptures inspired by nature.

What cities have direct flights to Barcelona? Many cities in Europe, North America, and worldwide offer direct flights to Barcelona. From Europe, direct flights are available from most major cities and travel hotspots, including Amsterdam, Athens, Dublin, Frankfurt, Ibiza, London, Lisbon, Madrid, Milan, Munich, Mykonos, Naples, Paris, Prague, Rome, Vienna, Zurich, and many more. European flights to Barça take 1 to 3 hours. From North America, direct flights are available to Barcelona from Atlanta, Mexico City, Miami, Montreal, New York City, Newark, and Toronto and take 7.5 to 11 hours. A handful of cities in South America offer direct flights to Barcelona, including Bogotá, Buenos Aires, Santiago, and São Paulo, and take 10.5 to 13.5 hours. Direct flights from Africa are on offer from Algiers, Cairo, Casablanca, Dakar, Marrakesh, and Tunis and take from 1.5 to 4.5 hours. From the Middle East, Barça direct flights leave from Amman, Abu Dhabi, Beirut, Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Tel Aviv, and take anywhere from 3.5 hours up to 7.5 hours. Few Asian cities offer direct flights to Barcelona, among them Hong Kong, Seoul, and Singapore. Flights take about 13.5 hours from any of these cities. How long should I plan to spend in Barcelona? Most of Barcelona’s iconic sights and top museums (Sagrada Familia, can be seen in 3 full days, but allow 5 days to get a more in-depth feel for the city’s local neighborhoods or if you plan to visit Barças sprawling parks (Montjuïc, Park Güell, Ciutadella, or Tibidabo, which can easily take a half-day each), to add in a beach day at Barceloneta, or to take in a football game. Plan extra time, too, for a day trip to Montserrat Monastery , Sitges , Girona , Figueres (Dalí’s hometown), or Cadaqués . No matter how long you stay in Barcelona, taking a guided tour is an excellent way to make the most of your time while gleaning insight into the city’s vibrant culture and vital history. Sant Sebastià beach in Barceloneta at sunset. If visiting in summer, plan a beach day. Barcelona is fronted by 3 miles of white sand beach with wonderful swimming, seafood restaurants, L’Aquarium, and a cable car to Montjuïc. How do I get around in Barcelona? Barcelona is a highly walkable and bikeable city with most of its best-loved sights, restaurants, and markets within 3.5 km of the city center and plenty of sidewalks and bike lanes traversing the city. Barça also boasts one of the best public transportation systems in Europe, with a network of trains, trams, buses, funiculars, and cable cars connecting each neighborhood to one another and to the farther flung parks, suburbs, and nearby towns. The metro (local trains) is usually the fastest way to get around the city, but it only runs until midnight most evenings. Buses are faster to the beach than the train and run 24-hours a day, but they are a little slower getting around town due to traffic. A single ticket for the bus, tram, metro, or local train (staying inside the city, not the suburban trains) costs €2.40. Tickets are good for 1 hour and 15 minutes from the start of the ride and include one transfer. A T-casual ticket is good for 10 rides at a discounted rate, or pick up an Hola Barcelona pass for 2, 3, 4, or 5 days of unlimited rides and transfers. Funiculars and cable cars are the most fun modes of travel, connecting the beach and Poble Sec to Montjuïc Park and Montjuïc Castle, and with routes to the top of Tibidabo and to Montserrat Monastery. Taxis are a great option for night travel or for traveling with children and luggage. Taxis tend to be more affordable in Barcelona than in other European cities. There is no Uber in Barcelona. A car is a hassle for getting around town, but a scooter is easier to park and zip through the narrow streets. Most of Barça’s landmarks are within a short walk of the city center. A few, like Park Güell here, are easier to reach by metro or bus for those staying in the heart of the city. Is Barcelona safe? Barça is not only a gorgeous city but a safe place to visit, as well. Like any major European travel hub, most crimes here center around pickpocketing, while violent crime is uncommon. Look out for pickpockets near train stations, popular tourist attractions, and nightlife hotspots. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your wallet and phone safely stashed, and hang any purses or bags diagonally over your chest (not straight over your shoulder or slung on your back). At night, be on the lookout in particular on the south end of La Rambla, near the Sants train station, on the north side of Montjuïc, near La Boqueria food market, and around the popular bars of El Raval, El Born, and Barri Gòtic, where drunk partiers can get out of control. Another element to consider in Barcelona is the Catalan independence movement, which has sparked some heated protests in recent years, though most protesting is done peacefully. Follow the news ahead of your trip to see if any areas of the city are affected. Barcelona is among the world’s safest major cities, though travelers should keep an eye out for pickpockets, especially at night and in popular tourist areas like La Rambla, seen here. The streets of Barcelona are fairly well-lit. What language do they speak in Barcelona? Unlike the rest of Spain, most people in Barcelona speak Catalan in addition to Spanish. Catalan is a romance language derived from Latin, as is Spanish, but it is more closely related to French and Occitan (a French/North Italian language). Use of the Catalan language was banned during the Francoist dictatorship from 1939 to 1975, so many older Barcelonans speak Spanish as their first language. Catalan became the official language of Catalonia, Barcelona’s region, in 1979. Younger Barcelonans tend to grow up in Spanish-speaking households, attend Catalan-speaking schools, and use Catalan in most official settings. Younger Barcelonans and those working in the travel industry often speak some English. To hear the Catalan language in song, visit the Palau de la Música Catalana and take in a performance by the Orfeó Català, the Catalan choral society. This Catalan Art Nouveau palace was built especially for the choir in 1905. What currency is used in Barcelona? Spain is part of the European Union, and the currency used in Barcelona is the euro (€). Most attractions, restaurants, bars, and shops accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry a little cash for food and souvenirs at the open-air markets, taxi fare, and bottled water. ATMs are easy to find throughout Barcelona. Tipping is not mandatory in Barcelona, but it is a fairly common practice and is always appreciated. Tipping is reserved for good service only, and is generally a few euros or rounding up the change. In general, at a restaurant tip from 5% up to 10% of the bill but not over €10 (no matter how fancy or expensive the restaurant is). For bars, tapas, or cafes, round up the change to the nearest euro. Taxi drivers don’t expect tips, unless they help with luggage; rounding up the change or tipping a euro or two is plenty. In hotels, €1 a day is typical for maid service,€1 per bag is typical for a porter, and €1 for room service delivery. Tipping tour guides is standard, though what amount is considered normal varies. Tips of €2 per person or 15% of the bill are equally common. It’s best to carry a little cash when hitting the outdoor flea and food markets, like Mercat Gòtic here, open every Thursday for 40 years in front of the Barcelona Cathedral.

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About Santorini Dave

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

For Barcelona without the crowds try Spain’s hidden gem – it costs just £64 to get there

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Spain is undoubtedly a beautiful country, with popular hotspots including Costa Brava and Barcelona, but have you heard of the hidden gem Calella? 

Described on TikTok as ‘heaven’, the holiday capital of Costa del Maresme rivals its more well-known neighbours Lloret de Mar and Barcelona for a relaxing escape with beautiful beaches, Spanish restaurants and plenty of history.

It’s also a thrifty holiday choice as the average pint is just £1.94. According to Hikers Bay , you can get a three-course meal for two people for less than £30. This almost doubles if you go to Barcelona, where it’s about £52.

If you do want to visit the legendary Barcelona for its cathedrals, beaches and history, it’s just over an hour on the train and will cost you around £5.

Be warned, though: Barcelona is much busier, visited by approximately nine million tourists each year.

Comparatively, Calella rakes in a more moderate 250,000 visitors per year — so you likely won’t be fighting over sunbeds here.

Things to do in Calella

If you love the beach, you’re in luck: Playa de Calella stretches from one edge of the town to the other, with a promenade lined with dozens of bars and cafes.

Meanwhile, Playa del Garbi has a basketball court, nine volleyball pitches, two beach football pitches, nine volleyball pitches and even an offshore waterpark.

Dating back to 1856, the famous lighthouse is a symbol of the city and is open to the public six days a week.

Just below is the much quieter Playa de les Roques (beach of the rocks), where you can relax in peace, swim or even snorkel.

For culture, there are lots of beautiful churches to visit, including the Church of Santa María and San Nicolás, dating back to the 16th century. It’s also home to a ginormous bell tower that you can see from most of the city.

If you wish to escape the heat, Dalmau Park is a great place to relax under shady trees. If you visit on the first weekend of June, you’ll get to experience the Sardana celebration and Historic Catalan folk dances. 

If you love shopping you can take advantage of the promenade which boasts over 500 shops and stalls, all in one straight line. Similarly, the municipal market is a local flea market that happens every Saturday morning.

And, of course, you can expect fantastic Mediterranean food in any of the town’s many tapas bars, brasseries and seafood restaurants.

How to get to Calella

The closest airport to Calella is Girona, but it’s easier to fly from Barcelona.

Flights on Skyscanner are as low as £64 from London.

When to visit Calella

Calella’s hottest months are July and August, with average temperatures at 23C rising to 29C at its peak.

If you prefer more manageable temperatures, the average temperature in May and October is 17, rising to 23C at its hottest.

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• International Travel

Barça Academy international travel

Barça academy experiences in barcelona are exclusive opportunities to learn the methodologies of the unique barça style. selected players will participate in an advanced and intensive training program while learning the culture and meeting new people from barcelona.​.

Start your game at Barça Academy Camps!

Register and join us for an excepcional soccer experience that combines elite coaching and personal development to help you grow as an athlete.

Show your skills and playing ability!

FC Barcelona coaches will carefully evaluate players using two primary criteria: skills and their embodiment of Barça values. The number of selections from each location is not predetermined; it solely depends on players' abilities and qualities.

Take a look at your email!

Just a few days following the Barça Academy Camps, only the chosen players will be extended a special invitation via email to be part on a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Barcelona!

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Training sessions.

Barça Academy training facility

Players will have the opportunity to train in the same fields that have train Messi, Piqué and Jordi Alba.

Challenge your level.

UEFA PRO LICENSE

The training sessions are run by Official Barça Academy Coaches who have the highest coach license: UEFA PRO License.

Camp nou experience, visit the historic camp nou arena and take a tour through the museum with the thropies that fc barcelona have won over the years., watch your idols play live.

Attend a LaLiga game

Your team will have reserved seats at the Stadium to watch a professional live game. Be one more fan and feel the authentic soccer atmosphere.

Meet a former fc barcelona player.

Career Orientation Session by a Legend

Meet and learn from a Barça Legend and the official coaches at FC Barcelona.

City culture.

Stay in the heart of the city

Learn about Barcelona’s city and culture from the work of Gaudí to the local sidewalks with our guides.

Tentative schedule, testimonials, real stories, real successes..

Hear directly from our Barça Academy Camps’ Parents and Players.

FC Barcelona coaches will select the players from the Official Barça Academy Soccer Camps all over the nation. Players are selected by two criteria: skills and FC Barcelona values. Selected players will be contacted personally.

Selected players will receive the date of the program once they are contacted together with all the information of the program.

Official coaches from FC Barcelona will run the training sessions while in Barcelona. All of the coaches have the highest coaching license there is: UEFA Pro.

Yes, a goalkeeper coach from FC Barcelona will be running specific training sessions for goalkeepers.

Of course. Please contact [email protected] and we will give you their contact information.

The training sessions will take place at the Official FC Barcelona Headquarters in Barcelona, Spain.

Yes, players are recommended to travel with at least one parent and/or relative. All of the soccer and cultural activities during the experience will be done together with the players.

Yes, we will provide a chaperone 24/7 that will take care of the player during the experience.

Private transportation is included during the whole experience and teams will be accompanied by bilingual staff 24/7.

Yes, it is required to have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining to travel to Barcelona.

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Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia Will Finally Be Complete in 2026 After More Than 140 Years

Gaudí's famous church will soon be construction-free., tori latham, tori latham's most recent stories, netflix cofounder reed hastings wants to turn half of a utah mountain into a members-only ski club.

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It’s a landmark that’s been more than 140 years in the making—and now, it will finally be complete.

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Despite not yet being a complete building, Sagrada Familia was honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984, and Pope Benedict XVI consecrated it for religious worship in 2010. In 2016, authorities realized the structure had never been given official planning permission, meaning the construction had been occurring illegally for some 130-plus years. Barcelona’s city council belatedly issued a building permit in 2019. At that time, the project was about 70 percent complete, so crews have been working at a somewhat speedy clip in the intervening years.

Once fully finished, the Sagrada Familia will become the tallest church in the world, CNN reports, beating out Germany’s Ulm Minster for that title. The Tower of Jesus Christ, that final component, will stand 566 feet tall and feature a 56-foot-tall four-armed cross.

Tori Latham is a digital staff writer at Robb Report. She was previously a copy editor at The Atlantic, and has written for publications including The Cut and The Hollywood Reporter. When not…

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• Travel Updates

‘10 year rule’ causing mayhem for British passport holders

It’s a new passport rule that is catching out hundreds of travellers a day with one woman claiming she was “escorted through the airport like a criminal”.

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It’s a passport rule that hundreds are falling victim to every day with one couple claiming they were treated like “criminals” after being escorted out of the airport, unaware of the new change.

UK passengers are being caught out by the “passport 10 year rule” and being refused boarding on flights to Europe.

UK travellers used to be able to carry up to nine months left on an old passport over to a new one. This meant that a passport could be valid for more than 10 years.

But after Brexit, the rules changed and now British passports need to have been issued less than 10 years before the arrival date and be valid for three months from the final day of a holiday.

That means British passports need to be at least three months away from their expiry date for people leave the EU.

Home Office data suggests 32 million people could be impacted by the new rule and according to The Independent’s travel expert Simon Calder, it’s already something “so many people are falling foul”.

“[A] couple of hundred a day,” he said during a BBC Breakfast interview today on March 27.

British woman Jane Opher said she was left “traumatised” after being told she and her partner couldn’t board their flight from London’s Garwick airport to Barcelona, despite having already checked in online

“I was just saying to my partner that I must renew my passport soon, as we walked along the bridge to get to the boarding gate,” she told the BBC .

“It was very stressful and humiliating to have to be escorted back through the airport like a criminal.”

The 61-year-old architect was on her way to see friends but her trip ended up costing a further £400 ($780) after being forced to pay for replacement flights and a fast track passport because of the new rule.

Ms Orpher said the issue was “a technicality” the airlines should be able to deal with.

“I feel lucky I was going on holiday and it wasn’t an urgent visit like a funeral,” she told the publication.

“As someone who used to live in Spain, I feel angry that I cannot go to Spain as easily as I used to,” she added.

Lara Barnes, 57, was also denied boarding a flight from Liverpool to Majorica last October, losing £1,200 ($2,300) on the trip.

Ms Barnes told the BBC she at first thought the woman at the check-in counter was joking.

“We had no reason to believe the passport wouldn’t be valid,” she said, adding staff “told us this had been a ruling since Brexit and we should know better”.

Brits have vented their frustration online saying they just want their travel “freedom of movement back”.

“I got refused to fly to Italy yesterday because of this,” a TikTok user wrote.

“Who voted Brexit again can we make them pay?” another wrote, while a third added:

“Brexit the gift that keeps giving. Well done UK.”

According to UK consumer group, Which , if you carry a British passport, it needs to fulfil two criteria when you visit Europe’s Schengen zone.

It must have been issued less than 10 years before the day you enter the EU/Schengen Zone, and it must be valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave.

“For example, if you’re entering Spain on August 5, 2024 and returning to the UK on August 19, your passport needs to have been issued after August 5, 2014 and be valid until November 19, 2024.

“These passport rules apply to all EU member states except Ireland,” the consumer body states on its site.

“They also apply to other countries and microstates in Europe’s Schengen zone: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, and Monaco.”

According to Which, up until 2018, the UK government allowed for unspent time on passports to be added to the new passport when renewing, meaning some UK passports are valid for more than 10 years.

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“This didn’t matter while the UK was in the EU because passports were valid up to and including the expiry date. But you will now be denied entry if your passport issue date was more than 10 years ago.”

Which also added that British tourists don’t need a visa for short visits to the Schengen zone.

“You can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period as a British passport holder. This means you can visit as many Schengen countries as you like as long as you don’t exceed 90 days in total within 180 days.”

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