Back to Blog

Essential things to know before traveling to Barcelona

things to know before traveling to barcelona

Barcelona is a vibrant city that offers plenty of things to do and see, and whether you are visiting for a day or weeks, you want to make the best of your time by visiting iconic attractions and tasting the best of Catalan cuisine. Our Barcelona Travel Guide offers you insider´s tips to make your experience memorable. Check the essential things to know before traveling to Barcelona!

Barcelona city view

Best time to go ~ the best way to catch sunny days

Barcelona has around 300 days of sunshine so whether you visit in winter or summer, you’ll certainly get the nice sunrays at this Mediterranean location. In comparison to main European cities, winter in Barcelona is mild and most people enjoy drinks and tapas outdoors during the day. The city is less crowded and the atmosphere laid back.

Spring and Autumn are wonderful periods to visit Barcelona as well, the weather is pleasant and the brave ones even dare to jump into the sea. And summer is just awesome, the city boasts its vibes at 200%, though you should expect high temperatures and humidity.

  • Autumn/Winter: Mild. December, January & February are the coldest months averaging temperatures around 16°C.
  • Spring/Summer: Summer lasts for around six months! From May-October, temperatures reaching a high of 28-29°C.

Memorable things to do and see ~ feel the local vibes

Visit the Golden Quarter (aka Quadrat d’Or)

Take a breathtaking walk at this kind of open-air museum area in central Barcelona. You´ll admire stunning architecture that boasts neo-gothic details, floral decorations and stained-glass works that reveal the best of the modernisme art movement that flourished towards the end of the 19th century. At the Quadrat d’Or, you’ll find the legacy of Antoni Gaudi and other renowned architects. Among the most famous attractions to see you will find:

  • Casa Batlló and Casa Mila (better known as La Pedrera) by Antoni Gaudí.
  • Casa Amatller, Casa de les Punxes (the thorns) and Casa Macaya by Puig I Cadafalch.
  • Casa Lleó Morera and Casa Montaner I Simon (better known as Fundacion Antoni Tapies) by Domènech I Montaner.

La pedrera in Barcelona

Go all the way through Gaudi’s legacy

Antoni Gaudi left an amazing legacy and influence, and whether you like it or not, his masterpieces are unique. Take some time to visit the Park Guell, La Sagrada Familia, and a lesser-known work. We really recommend visiting Casa Vicens or Torre Bellesguard, that way you’ll also escape the crowds. In case you feel adventurous, go to Colonia Guell, a city that was actually designed by Gaudi. It is 20 min away from Barcelona.

Park Guell by Antoni Gaudi

Enjoy the funky atmosphere of Placa del Angels

Probably the most eclectic and quirky venue in town that host the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA) and the Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB), both being among the most visited arts centers in Barcelona and the world. The buildings are opposed to a Medieval Convent for which the square is named, which is a haven for modern skateboarding, photography, and cinema. All this in the famous Raval district.

  • Carmel Bunkers, located just above the city must-visit eclectic Park Guell, this area offers the most breathtaking view to Barcelona (bring a bottle of cava in your bag! upsss!)
  • Tibidabo, apart from being an attraction theme park, it is the highest point in town with a historic church. Discover it!
  • Parc Poblesec is easily reachable by foot from Barcelona city center and it offers a close view of the seaport, industrial districts, and Tibidabo! Here is where the locals go!

Take a stroll at the Ciutadella Park

The Ciutadella Park is a former fortress that hosts a cascade and a lake, the Barcelona zoo, modernist buildings an Arch (similar to the Arc de Triumph in Paris), the Catalan Parliament and plenty of beautiful green areas is the perfect spot to feel the history and the way Catalans find leisure over the weekends.

Discover Barcelona on a bike

Barcelona has an extensive bike infrastructure and there are plenty of businesses that rent bikes for around 10 euros per day. Just go green and get to see iconic attractions and the graffiti scene through the bike lanes. Stroll over the seaside with a bike and stop for tapas and beers while luring´s Barcelona life and architecture. Simple and easy.

Uncover Medieval Barcelona

Between Parallel Avenue and Passeig de Picasso, the curious traveler enters the Gothic Quarter and El Born, to admire the roots of a far away life that is still beautifully represented by the Cathedral and some churches such as Santa Maria del Pi, Santa Maria del Mar, and the oldest Sant Pau del Camp. Many Gothic style buildings exist in this area, and beyond it is worth visiting the Pedralbes Monastery and the National Museum of Catalan Visual Art (MNAC).

Visit World Heritage Monuments

Since 1984 nice buildings in Barcelona are declared world heritage. Most of them located in the golden quarter, and some beyond. Among the best things to see in Barcelona are impressive church Sagrada Familia and Park Guell from Gaudi, and one of the oldest and most beautiful hospitals in Europe Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau (in our opinion must-see building in Barcelona) and the concert-hall Palau de la Musica Catalana built by Domènech I Montaner.

Go on a Barcelona Food Tour

Join a Barcelona Food Tour ∼ it is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the world of family-run restaurants, their history and traditions, and of course their fantastic foods. It is also a way to get an insight into the city’s culture through its foods and traditional drinks.

Food tour in Barcelona

Too much of Barcelona? Go beyond the city limits with this amazing selection of the best day-trips from Barcelona.

Sail on a 1947 vintage boat 

Admire the city’s skyline, beautiful sunset and swim at the Mediterranean waters at glance. Take a Barcelona boat tour with Captain Dave, you won’t regret!

Kid-friendly activities ~ where you’ll have more fun than your kids

Looking for what to do in Barcelona with kids? We must state that this is very much a child-friendly city. Most activities for kids are actually great for parents, seriously! We do recommend going to:

  • Cosmocaixa and discover science with your kids in an unforgettable manner (the views from the garden are also breathtaking).
  • The Barceloneta beach for a walk. Find the big spider nets, kids love them. You’ll need to climb it to get your kid off, and that’s gonna be really fun.
  • One of the Barcelona Parks ~ the Laberynth Park de Horta is great ~ or take your little ones to the Bosc Urba for extreme experiences.
  • Have a coffee or sit in a cafe in one of the Gracia neighborhood’ squares. Enjoy delicious food and drinks, and let your kids enjoy their time at the playgrounds.

  • Spend an afternoon walking around Park Güell, a park which opened in 1926, admire the colonial architectural views of the cities and surrounding areas. It is so quirky the place that your kids will be amazed.
  • Take in the spectacular views of the city from the 1448 Barcelona Cathedral (Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia).
  • Join a local celebration in Barcelona. It is fun and a unique family moment to enjoy in town.

Taste the essential tapas ~ mouthwatering foods that you won’t stop eating

The gastronomic offer of Barcelona is influenced by a number of cultures, it clearly sparks the Mediterranean flavor on its dishes thanks to using olive oil, fresh veggies, fish, and meat. One can say that Catalan gastronomy is a dynamic combination of ancient and new traditions.

Barcelona Food Tour

You shouldn’t leave Barcelona without trying:

  • Pa amb tomaquet. An art on itself and identity to Catalan people. Bread rubbed with garlic, tomato, olive oil and a pinch of salt in that very same order.
  • Bunyols de BacallaCodfish pastries, slightly crunchy on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside that are served as an appetizer or just eaten as street food. Best is found at Barcelona Markets.
  • Escalivada. Eggplant and Bell Peppers cooked in ashes served with a generous amount of olive oil are the ingredients of this perfect pairing to “Pa amb Tomaquet”.
  • Trinxat. Literally, to slice, this is a classic dish from the Catalan Pyrenees mountains made with cabbage, potatoes and pork meat.
  • Mel I Mato. A classic Catalan dessert that combines curd cheese and honey and that originates in the middle age.
  • Crema CatalanaBurned cream recipe unique to Catalonia as the custard is flavored with orange zest and cinnamon, and the sugar caramelized under an iron boiler.
  • Catanies. Locally grown almonds which are toasted and covered with caramel, white chocolate, and powdered black chocolate. A perfect pair with sweet wine or coffee.

The essential tapas to consider trying when eating at a restaurant in Barcelona have thousands of years of history. The first book written in Spain about gastronomy dates back to the 14th century and it was written in Barcelona! Take a walk around a Barcelona Food Market, filled with a variety of stalls, selling a range of products as well as delicious foods for taking away or to eat at the ¨barras¨.

Like a local ~ enjoy the amazing wine and party scene

A Denomination of Origin (DO) refers to Spain’s wine quality control system, whereas Denomination of Origin Qualified (DOC in Spain & DOQ in Catalonia) is the highest category in Spanish wine law, reserved for regions with above-average grape prices and particularly stringent quality controls. There are two of these regions in Spain, one is Rioja and the other one is Priorat, which is located within Catalonia’s wine regions. Let’s see which are the wine varieties that we can find in Catalonia.

  • Priorat DOQ. Is the most famous and prestigious Catalan wine region with famous reds and worldwide quality recognition. Main grapes: Cariñena and Garnatxa.
  • Montsant. DO is characterized by powerful red wines and ¨vi ranci¨ style wines using the traditional solera system. Main grapes: old Garnacha and Cariñena.
  • Penedes. DO home to the modern and innovative growers, Penedes is the wine region where mainly Cava is produced, though fantastic white and red wines are also found. Main grapes: Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel·lo.
  • Alella and Conca de Barbera. DO famous for its white wines, and the later also for cava. Main grapes: Xarel-lo for Alella, and Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Trepat and Pinot noir for Conca de Barbera
  • Costers del Segre. DO wines are characteristic of the mountainous Lleida region where white and red wines are produced. Main grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Macabeo, Merlot, Parellada, Pinot noir, and Tempranillo.
  • Emporda. Wines that have been historically ¨roses¨, though these days’ reds and whites are on the rise, and some villages also produce cavas. Main grapes: Grenache and Carignan.
  • Pla de Bages. DO is one of the smallest wine regions in Spain, famous for the white Picapoll and red Garnatxa and Ull de Llebre grape varieties
  • Tarragona. DO is the wine region where most Cava is produced while some old traditional methods are still preserved to produce red wines (rancid wines)
  • Terra Alta. DO stands for high lands, and it’s the place where red and white wines used to produce for local consumption, an aspect that is changing these days. Main grape: white Garnatxa

Where to find the best wine shops in Barcelona!

And of course, this region also has an embedded drink culture that goes far beyond wine. Try:

  • Cava. Local sparkling wine produced in the Penedes region of Catalonia under the champenoise traditional method, but with less sugar, using parellada, xarel-lo & macabeu grapes. The perfect pair for any dish.
  • Vermouth. Indispensable drink if you want to go for tapas in Barcelona. It is basically a type of fortified white wine flavored with herbs. Pair it olives or clams and anchovies.
  • Beers. By no surprise, worldwide trends have also arrived in Barcelona and a bunch of enthusiastic entrepreneurs is crafting amazing beers, they are putting the Barcelona beer scene quite high.

Special tips for a night out in Barcelona!

Barcelona is known for being a party city! It has an impressive number of bars and many clubs of different styles, not to mention many festivals or events organized each year. But we all know, partying is expensive. That’s why it’s often useful to know some tips and tricks to save money at night. One of these solutions is called Youbarcelona: you will be able to enter for free in almost every club in Barcelona simply by joining a list. Make your choice between Opium, CDLC, Pacha, Catwalk, Bling Bling, Sutton… Other events such as free dinner or pool parties in Barcelona are organized during the year by Youbarcelona guestlist.

Where to Eat and Drink ~ the must go city hangouts

Amazing restaurants

Barcelona restaurants are famous for their top quality foods, being upmarket or simply a day to day stop for a bite. They strive pride and character, and this list is just a hint into the ones we believe represent best the city´s culinary culture, the ones the locals go! Eating in Barcelona is an authentic experience, and you should not miss eating at one of these genuine restaurants.

Barna Brew Bar in Barcelona

photo credit: Barna Brew

  • El Sortidor. Best patatas bravas in town and a genuine ambiance in one of the oldest locations opened to date in the city. Plaça del Sortidor, 5 Tel: +34 933 28 44 08
  • CaravelleBest hipster brunch in town! Try their homemade Galatic Pale Ale beer. Pintor Fortuny, 31 Tel: +34 933 17 98 92
  • DisfrutarHaut and original cuisine, with an excellent wine menu by former “El Bulli” chefs. Villaroel, 163 Tel: +34 933 48 68 96
  • Xiringuito EscribaTaste the best of Barceloneta cuisine. Eat one of the best paellas in town (though here we call it ¨arroz¨!). Av. del Litoral, 62 Tel: +34 932 21 07 29
  • Ca L’Isidre. Traditional Catalan cuisine. This restaurant has more awards than any other in Barcelona. Carrer de Les Flors 12 Tel: +34 934 41 11 39
  • Ginette. Where Catalan and French gastronomies meet. A charming restaurant that follows the French concept of Bar à manger. A total must in case you want to taste something different. Carrer Rec Comptal 12, Tel: +34 932 809 503.

And don’t forget about the best desserts you must taste in Barcelona

Authentic Tapas Bars

Barcelona is packed with trendy and timeless tapas bars. Once you get there, grab a seat, order a few rations and a drink, so you start enjoying the vibes and the flavors, eventually, you’ll start talking to other people tables. That’s when the rumba starts.

Tapas tour Barcelona

  • Vaso d´OroBest solomillo (entrecote) amb foie in a place where tapas have character. Calle de Balboa, 6 Tel: +34 933 19 30 98
  • VibliotecaBe advised about the perfect wine pairing by one of the sommelier´ owners. Fresh products and needless to say superb wine! Vallfogona, 12 Tel: +34 932 84 42 02
  • Bar Bodega QuimetThe distinct atmosphere, cask wine served like in old times. Fabulously grilled octopus. Vic, 23 Tel: +34 932 18 41 89
  • Bodega la PeninsularA family run tavern that celebrates awesome Catalan cuisine inspired by the sea. Carrer del Mar, 29 Tel: +34 932 21 40 89
  • Morro FiBarcelonians favorite institution for vermut and anchovies. Consell de Cent, 171  

The best ice cream parlors

You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream! While we hope you won’t yell from sheer excitement at the thought of trying one of these unique ice cream establishments, you’ll certainly savor every last bite of their products. Ice cream is one of those treats that’s hard to ruin, but it’s also difficult to create a frozen dessert that trumps all the others. These top Barcelonan ice cream parlors do just that and of course, many have a local feel which we are proud to celebrate at Barcelona Eat Local.

But before we start, remember one important thing about good ice cream. The right way to preserve this precious treat is in closed tubs, and scoop it from there. Air and artificial lights simply damage the ice cream texture and quality, got our point?

  • Gocce di Latte at  Pla de Palau, 4, 08003 Barcelona. This store offers a well-curated variety of flavors for ice cream lovers. Strategically located at El Born district in Barcelona. They’re known for using all-natural ingredients in their products and pride themselves on offering savory gelatos for all palates.
  • Uay Balam at Carrer de Sant Pere Mes Baix 36, 08003 Barcelona. The name of the place, Uay Balam, stalks from the ancient Mayans, and represent gods that would protect the crop and the food. By no surprise, everything here is made of organic products. The pastries showcased in the window are promising, and when it comes to their ice-creams and their home-made ice-pops, we are already melting!
  • Rocambolesc at La Rambla, 51-59, 08002 Barcelona. Rocambolesc is the newest ice cream parlor in Barcelona to experience the sweet sensations of the Michelin star restaurant El Celler de Can Roca. Visiting this ice cream shop remind us of the movie Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. It represents a journey in time to those moms and pops ice cream shops from the 50s. And of course, their ice creams are delicious!
  • Sirvent at Carrer de Parlament 56 & Carrer de Balmes 130, Barcelona. Barcelona locals most argued theme beyond football is where the best Tiger´s Nut Milk – Horchata, is served in the city. And actually, there are really few places to try this enigmatic drink that is served only between April and November. However, many are not aware that their small selection of homemade ice cream is simply delightful, try the pistachio ice cream and let us know your thoughts!
  • Swiit Barcelona at Baixada de Viladecols 2c, Bajos 2 08002 El Gothic. Aspects that make ice cream shops in Barcelona lovely are the fact that you can talk to the business owner and get to know how they make their products. Try a bunch of flavors before choosing your favorite one, and then take a seat on an old bench in a street with more than 2000 years of history. Say hi from us to Tracey or Giovanni!
  • De la Crem at Carrer d’Enric Granados, 15, 08007 Barcelona. The crème de la crème of ice cream in Barcelona. This ice cream shop is located in a quiet and charming square of the Eixample district to where many of us pilgrimage to get one of their delicious Italian ice creams that calm our sweet tooth! For some people, this is the best place in Barcelona to enjoy an Italian affogato.
  • El Tio Che at Rambla del Poblenou, 44-46, 08005 Barcelona. With over 100 years of business, it’s no wonder that this shop has remained a locals’ favorite for as long as it has. All of their products are homemade, from their ice cream products made with real milk and refreshing ice cubes to their famous horchata.
  • Bodevici at Rambla del Poblenou, 44-46, 08005 Barcelona. This has got to be one of the finest ice cream shops in Barcelona. Known for only using organic ingredients in their ice cream and frozen yogurt, patrons can enjoy some delicious flavors without worrying about additives. This establishment offers traditional flavors like chocolate and vanilla, but also provides non-conventional flavors for brave individuals. Try the goat cheese ice cream, dark chocolate gelato, or sweet bread ice cream. Even those that might sound a little out of the ordinary are sure to provide pleasure!

Enjoy a timeless “desayuno” at a local’s favorite hangout

  • Cafes El Magnifico. The absolute best coffee roaster in Barcelona. Carrer de l’Argenteria, 64
  • Granja Dulcinea. An emblematic chocolatier that opened its doors in 1941! Carrer de Petritxol, 2
  • Xurreria San Roman. One of the best artisan doughnuts in town open since 1969. Consell de Cent, 211 Tel: +34 934 53 25 82

You can also check some of our detailed blog entries for eating in Barcelona: breakfast in Barcelonaeat at the Barcelona beaches, what are the best restaurants to host large group dinners, and certainly where to find the best paella. Barcelona has it all! 

Where to stay ~ check out the Barcelona Barrios

The Barrios

Like in every big metropolis, Barcelona has few neighborhoods, locally known as barrios. Each of them has a distinctive character and history, and here is a glimpse of what the main ones look like:

  • La Rambla & Barri Gòtic ~ great location in case you don’t have much time to spend in Barcelona. Centrally located and walking distance to major attractions. Expect lots of tourists and noise.
  • El Raval ~ central location, famous among the young crowds. Eclectic and bohemian nightlife. It is also close to most city attractions. Some streets feel unsafe at night and you should be careful with pickpockets.
  • El Born ~ chic medieval neighborhood. Fantastic nightlife and restaurant scene. Great location to explore the city, you will find yourself close to the Picasso Museum and the gorgeous Palau de la Musica Catalana. Can be crowded in summer.
  • Barceloneta & the Waterfront ~ the district that has the most distinctive character in the city. Easy going and with a delicious array of seafood restaurants. Here is where you access the beach on foot.
  • L’Eixample ~ here is where most locals actually live. The location gives access to most modernista attractions and you can easily move with metro or using bike lanes. There are all type of accommodations (it is famous among the LGBTI community), great restaurants and a trendy nightlife scene. In some areas, you might feel a bit far from the “city”.
  • Gràcia ~ is a former village that was annexed to Barcelona not so long ago. It has a lively atmosphere and is packed by the local young crowd. Great place if you want to feel the local vibes of Barcelona without seeing so many tourists.

Fantastic Hotels to stay in Barcelona

Hotel Casa Camper. Smart hotel boutique just in the center of town and close to shopping areas and attractions. Unique on its own. It has a 24-h open café with free snacks. The perfect playground.

Address: C/ Elisabets 11 Tel: +34 933 426 280 [email protected]acamper.com

Rooms from around 250 euro per night

Hotel Brummell. Located in a unique location close to the city bustling center and nature, with a decoration that reminds you of Sri Lanka, this boutique hotel has a yoga space in the garage and a great restaurant, the Brummell Kitchen, a fantastic option at the Barcelona culinary sky. Feel trendy and breath fresh.

C/ Nou de la Rambla,174 Tel: +34 931 258 622, [email protected]

Rooms from around 110 EUR per night

Casa Bonay. The hotel that captures the best of Barcelona local designers and top restaurateurs such as Satan Coffee and Mother, a fantastic organic juicer in Barcelona. A blend of tastes.

Gran Vía de les Corts Catalanes 700 Tel: +34 93 545 80 70, [email protected]

Rooms from around 150 EUR per night

Hotel Market

Sophisticated look and affordable prices in a fantastic location, the Sant Antoni District which is food lovers paradise, that will allow the traveler to taste the real Barcelona life. Walk to the trendy hipster mile at Parlament street for a glimpse of local vibes.

Comte Borrell, 68 Tel: +34 933 251 205, [email protected]

Rooms from around 80 EUR per night

Mercer Hotel. Luxury, history and gourmet food at the Gothic Quarter. The building has original frescoes dating from the 2nd century. Feel the past and wonder around windy old streets.

Calle dels Lledó, 7 Tel: +34 93 310 74 80, [email protected]

Rooms from around 300 EUR per night

Hotel Pulitzer. Close to main Barcelona city center attractions with a Balinese inspired rooftop terrace that has a signature cocktail that shouldn’t be missed (the Pulitzer!). The laid back and artsy atmosphere.

Calle Bergara, 8 Tel: +34 934 81 67 67, [email protected]

Rooms from around 170 EUR per night

Praktik Hotels. Winery or Bakery? This small chain has two hotels distinctive on its approach which relates to wines from Catalunya or the best bakery in town “Baluard“. Both have superb rooms. Feeling like buying wine or bread?

Praktik Vinoteca – Calle Balmes 51 Tel: +34 93 454 50 28, [email protected]

Praktik Bakery – Calle Provença 279 Tel: +34 93 488 00 61, [email protected]

Rooms from around 120 EUR per night

Hotel The Serras. Located in a building dated from 1846 that overlooks the old port. This 5-star hotel recreates modernism at the first Picasso´s studio restaurant. Simple and sublime.

Passeig de Colom, 9 Tel.: +34 93 169 18 68, [email protected]

Rooms from around 350 EUR per night

The 5 Rooms. Warm yet stylish B&B that has evolved into a blend of rooms and apartments that make the traveler feel at home in Barcelona with a quality approach and personalized treat at the heart of Barcelona bustling city center and close to the best attractions and restaurants in town. Great choice for families and the self-improver traveler.

Pau Claris 72, 1 Tel: +34 93 342 78 80, [email protected]

Rooms from 135 EUR per night

Apartment Rentals in Barcelona

First of all, a useful piece of advice: if you want to stay in an apartment remember that they need to be registered as holiday accommodation, and this should be indicated at time of reservation. Unlicensed apartments are commonly found on international company websites who aren’t strict in enforcing this, so you may end up staying in one and be contributing to unsustainable tourism while eroding local culture.

Try to book with a local and central apartments agency in Barcelona such as OK Apartment Barcelona or Barcelona-Home. These companies are locally based and take stronger measures to avoid listing illegal apartments, including visits to the apartment.

Another way to rent an Apartment in Barcelona is with Likibu, a great website that aggregates different types of accommodation for rent with the possibility to compare prices with hotel rooms.

Cultural Awareness ~ what you should know before your trip

Before traveling to Barcelona is good to be aware of a few things. We believe this will only make your trip better as you will set your expectations the right way:

  • Barcelona is a capital. The city host the government of Catalonia, one of Spain’s 17 autonomous communities. This is a region rich in history and Catalans are proud of their culture.
  • Catalan and Spanish are the official languages. Locals speak Catalan in their day to day life, and also Spanish. The region is bilingual. You can check our blog on the key Catalan phrases to know before traveling to Barcelona.
  • Barna is Barcelona’s nickname
  • Barça is Barcelona Football Club’s nickname.
  • Barcelona is a unique city in Spain. Here bullfighting is banned and flamenco dance is not a thing, though you can find awesome Flamenco Shows in Barcelona.
  • Castellers and Calçotadas are genuine to Catalonia. Human castles and eating burnt onions (calçots) are rooted Catalan traditions worth enjoying.

Getting around ~ stay safe and don’t lose your north

When it comes to safety, you probably heard about the Barcelona pickpockets. In overall, the city is very safe, and you just need to keep an eye on your personal belongings as you do when visiting a crowded city. Be wary of people giving you a bunch of flowers or asking you a hand to unblock their mobile phone. Especially in touristy areas and around May and September. It is quite easy to avoid unfortunate situations.

Barcelona has a public transport system that works around the clock. As well, the biking infrastructure has improved a lot during the last years, so it is quite easy to move around. We do recommend mixing a bit of walk and public transport, plus biking in case you are up to it.

You can purchase the Barcelona Tourist Card that includes free unlimited public transit, including to/from airport, entry to some museums & other benefits.

  • Public Transportation ~ Most visitors buy the T10 ticket, which gives you 10 rides of one hour in both metro and buses. The public transport system – TMB – has an app that you can download in your telephone which will calculate your routes.
  • Renting a bike ~ the city is well connected through bike lanes, so you commute on two wheels and reduce your carbon footprint. You can even go to the city outskirts by following the ronda verda, a cycling path that keeps being expanded. You can also bring your bike inside the metro on weekdays (except between 7am and 9.30am or 5pm and 8.30pm). During July and August, there are no restrictions. There are plenty of companies that rent bikes.
  • Walking ~ is the ancient way of moving around. Barcelona is a compact city and is quite easy to walk around. There is always a cafe around the corner where you can rest in case you need to.
  • Taxi ~ the city is pack with yellow taxis, a ride from/to the airport cost around 30 eur. You can use apps such as MyTaxi or Cabify. As well, you can book a Barcelona Airport Transfer.
  • Go to/from the airport: You can book a taxi, or use the AeroBus which is a convenient option for only €5.90 to the city center. Alternatively, there is a light rail train (RENFE) and the metro that go to the city.

How much does it cost visiting Barcelona? ~ budget your trip like a pro

Budgeting your trip to Barcelona can be a daunting task. There are so many things to do and options for accommodation. Fortunately, after some trial and error, we managed to narrow down the key costs you should consider when preparing your visit to this fantastic city. It all depends on what you really want to do.

Here you’ll a range of costs for the main things to considering before traveling to Barcelona:

Food ~ you can eat delicious tapas for as little as 3 € at the food markets. Most stalls sale take away foods. Regular breakfast cost around 6 euros. Most restaurants offer midday lunch for 9-12 € with a drink and coffee included. In case you want to take food from the menu and order some wine expect your bill to be around 18 €. A restaurant by the beach where you can eat a nice paella with a couple of wine glasses will cost you around 25 €.

Accommodation ~ per night expect to pay around 30 € for a shared room in a hostel, and for a private double room 60€ and up. A private 1-room apartment will cost close to 120 € and up. Hotels start from around 100 €. Prices vary depending on the location.

Having fun ~ that’s really up to you my friend.  A night out can be as cheap as paying for a couple of beers while going bar hopping, to paying 15-20€ to enter a club. Cocktails cost around 10-15 €. Tip: if you hang out in mainstream areas, expect plenty of guys offering you a cold beer for 1€.

Visiting Attractions ~ If your things are museums buy the Barcelona Card, it will give you entrance to plenty of places, but only a discount to the Gaudi architecture. In case you want to visit a site in particular costs usually, go from 4€ to 25€.

Transportation ~ a single ride (bus or metro) costs 2.15€, and a pack of 10 rides costs 9.95€. In case you opt for buying the Barcelona Card you have free public transport included. Renting a bike cost between 10-15€ per day. In case you are staying at a hostel, you may pay as little as 2€ /day.

Insurance. Everyone’s get excited at the time of travel. Before packing your bags including your bathing suits, flip flops, sunscreen, and sunglasses be sure you have done your research and find the best travel insurance available.

Tips ~ a few things to keep in mind when planning your visit to Barcelona

The Must Knows (For Trivial Pursuit)

  • Currency: Euro €
  • Population: 1.6 MILLION (2015)
  • Language: Catalan & Spanish (English is well spoken)
  • Public Museums are free on Sundays from 3-8pm.
  • Purchase tickets online. Picasso and Gaudi often attract huge crowds and even huger lines.
  • Walking or biking is the best way to explore the city.
  • Wifi is free in most parts of the city, including the Metro stops. More info on Barcelona Free Wifi.
  • FC Barcelona football games are always full. Purchase official tickets online from season ticket holders selling their tickets.
  • Restaurants take a siesta (in non-touristy areas) from around 4 pm up until 8 pm.

What To Pack when visiting Barcelona

  • A camera, you will take plenty of pictures!
  • Clothes? Think Urban | Casual | Chic ∼ there is certainly a relax and laidback atmosphere in Barcelona.
  • Swimwear to go to the beach unless you really want to look British in the middle of the city.
  • A zip-close bag and a refill bottle of water ∼ fountains are widely available in Barcelona, so you can refill your bottle of water. A comfortable zip bag for a camera, map, and other stuff are recommended.

How To Get to Barcelona

  • If you are Captain of a ship, follow these co-ordinates 41°23’N, 2°11’E.
  • For everyone else, you can fly with Easyjet from most cities in the UK for approximately £100 return. If you book with Transfer Travel you can save 14% than booking direct, for example, London Stansted to Barcelona for just €80. As well, for Spanish speakers, you can book hotels and flights to Barcelona with Felices Vacaciones.

One way or another, this Barcelona travel guide should have helped you out on your preparations to visit this fantastic city so you can enjoy it like a local. We showcase things to do and places we believe are truly unique and representative of the Barcelona local culture. In case this post has provided you with some value we would appreciate a share on Facebook, and of course, your comments and suggestions are welcome, there is always room to improve. All the best!