Barcelona City Guide - a city that is impossible not to fall in love with
Picture a place where you can start your day with a leisurely breakfast by a sea view, walk down the historic streets, and end your night at a buzzing bar, sipping on sangria. Such is Barcelona — a place endowed with bright sunshine, unmatched art, great food, and endless inspiration.
Are you preparing to be caught off guard for the first time in Barcelona? This guide will smoothen your trip so that it will be an unforgettable one. We'll tell you where to hit, where to go for the best tapas, how to spot and avoid pickpockets on La Rambla, and what apps to download for easy navigation.
Ready to discover Barcelona? Let's go-this is a city to steal your heart for eternity.
Preparing for the trip
1. What are the required documents for Spain travel? Do I need a visa?
Well, good news for US citizens: if traveling to Spain for up to 90 days, no visa is necessary. Just be sure that your passport is valid for at least three months past your exit from the Schengen area. I would also suggest making a reservation as it applies to housing or having a return ticket and money-related documents to prove that you will be able to finance your stay. All of these can help avoid unpleasantness, especially should you need to prove the purpose of your trip.
2. Which airlines fly to Barcelona with a better fare?
Barcelona is undoubtedly a draw for tourists; the airlines know it too well! I would personally choose direct flights with American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, or United Airlines because they are usually reliable and comfortable. For travelers who will keep their eyes set on the budget or are traveling during the summer, Level Airlines should be on your radar-they have just strengthened their position on routes from America not long ago and now fly daily to New York and frequently to Los Angeles and Boston. To be honest, when you think about it, this could be quite an option with really reasonable prices.
You can also view an overview of Barcelona Airport and get to know it better.
3. How much luggage do international flights allow?
International airfare allows generally 23 kg for check-in luggage, while carry-on luggage allows 7-10 kg. These policies may differ from airline to airline, so it's best to check well in advance to avoid any headaches at the airport.
Airline | Checked Baggage Allowance | Carry-On Allowance |
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American Airlines | 1 bag (up to 23 kg) included in standard fare | 1 carry-on + 1 personal item |
Delta Air Lines | 1 bag (up to 23 kg) included | 1 carry-on + 1 personal item |
United Airlines | 1 bag (up to 23 kg) included | 1 carry-on + 1 personal item |
Level (Low-Cost) | No checked bag included (available for purchase) | 1 carry-on (10 kg) + 1 personal item |
4. What are the good months to visit Barcelona?
Barcelona is a good-looking city understating all seasons, but some months are worth mentioning for their particularly good climate. Personally, April, June, or September are the months that I always prefer when going there. At this time, the temperature is comfortably warm but not hot, and the groups of tourists are much less than in midsummer. October is also fine, especially if you want to grasp the feeling of autumn in Europe.
Month | Air Temperature (°C) | Sea Temperature (°C) |
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April | 18°C (64°F) | 15°C (59°F) |
June | 25°C (77°F) | 21°C (70°F) |
September | 26°C (79°F) | 25°C (77°F) |
October | 22°C (72°F) | 22°C (72°F) |
5. Health insurance for travel - A must?
Although it is not mandatory for citizens of the United States to purchase any kind of health insurance in order to travel to Spain, it is advisable to buy travel insurance after all. Travel health insurance doesn't thus pay for travel insurance only while figuring for regular medical payments. It option of caring for further sudden incidents such as the COVID-19 treatment. In view of how most hospitals charge standout fees, travel health insurance is not just a formality but an essential prerequisite to travel and keep any peace of mind.
Below is a table featuring a handful of insurance services and their approximate prices for policies for travel to Spain.
Insurance Company | Policy Name | Cost (USD) |
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Allianz | OneTrip Prime Plan | $50 |
World Nomads | Standard Plan | $70 |
Travel Guard | Preferred Plan | $65 |
IMG | iTravelInsured Travel SE | $60 |
AXA Assistance USA | Silver Plan | $55 |
Placement
1. How do I choose the right neighbourhood to stay in?
Once more, let me share results of personal investigation. Actually, when it was my turn to think where to settle in Barcelona, I found out that there are such things as neighborhoods and everything is only a matter of what one wants to get out of the trip.
For example, Eixample – if you are trying to find a place that is nice and located near the center's iconic places, go to the Eixample. There is Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló and any other iconic modernists present - I live for all that stuff! It is calm and has plenty of wide streets, so Eixample is a good place for people who do not like noisy and crowded cities, but at the same time these people want to sightsee the main sights of Barcelona. It is a very nice aspect of it for me that it is a very less tourist area, yet you are not too far away from everything at the same time.
Gothic Quarter - this district is never boring especially to those who are obsessed with the risque of old streets, alleys, and buildings. Well, that’s the real-go place for you, my friend if you, in addition to that, are the life of the party every day. I love about the district in the evening, it’s always lively and you can find some place where you can sit down, have a drink, and have a conversation with the local people. This is THE place where you could taste the vibrant Barcelona experience providing that being a tourist does not make your spirits damp. Especially for those people who like treading on the toes of the past.
Barceloneta - If water and sunshine are a priority to you than I suggest you coming to Barceloneta. You can easily go for a stroll by the shore or hit the sandy beach and enjoy the local food with a view of the sea. This is a beach zone for those who wish to enjoy a beach vacation amidst the Barcelona ambiance. Even in the summer I have been to this place a few times - it is a dream for water sports and sun bathing!
2. What is the best choice between Hotels, Apartments or Airbnb?
Hotels are especially helpful for the situation. I have a soft spot for hotels since you don’t have to think about anything - maid comes daily, clean towels, and everything is how it should be. Great if you want to escape and forget everyday office life.
Civil apartments are the next best version – you will never have to leave the locals’ environment. Moreover, if you are a lover of homemade cooking or are preparing to be in a place for a longer period, apartments might be a good idea.
Airbnb is something to look for in case you are in the mood for some novel experience. Not the usual flats only, but also various unique houses or room in an absolutely unique location. The idea of having a place through Airbnb is a good one, especially if one is interested in a part of the city that is sparsely populated by visitors. Also, a lot of times it can be a better alternative than a hotel.
Type of Accommodation | Approximate Price per Night |
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Hotels | €50–€300 |
Apartments | Around €215 |
Airbnb | From €25 |
3. What is the best way to book accommodation and what mistakes should I avoid when booking?
Continuing the tips of how to book accommodation and not to overpay. The first point is to look for the most popular accommodation sources such as:
If you want to stay in a hotel, have a look at the reviews and ranking of it. I, myself, always read the feedback of the guests - After all, with its help it is possible to understand whether it is worth staying at this place at all. And do not forget informing oneself of the cancellation policy - it’s always comforting to know the detailed list of what is permissible to do to cope with unfortunate coincidences. Of course, do not forget to compare prices at different places and do searches, even search on hotel websites because sometimes it may be possible to make a direct reservation.
4. Which hotels have a view of the Sagrada Familia or the beach?
For all the tourists who prefer picturesque hotels, we listed the hotels that you are guaranteed to see the attraction you come for. Here are several.
Sagrada Familia. For splendid view of marvellous basilica first thing in the morning, do not miss, Sercotel Rosellón or Sagrada Familia Hotel. These places are straight by Sagrada Familia so it is going to be a holiday every day - that is if you don’t begin with this magnificent scene.
Beach. Those who value the expanse of the sea will find it more convenient to reside in the Hotel Arts Barcelona or W Barcelona. This is because they are two seafront Hotels that Marshal lovely sceneries of the Mediterranean Sea. People who provides information regarding travels on portals invariably put emphasis on the dearth of such rooms and this view and so reservations for such rooms luxuries should be made earlier.
Transport
1. How to get from Barcelona airport to the city centre?
There are quite a number of options from El Prat to the city centre, and this time I opted for what seemed the simplest and fastest for me.
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An Aerobus is a non-stop, express bus route connecting the airport to Plaza Catalunya. The trip takes about 35 minutes. It is so convenient since you have no transfers; you simply get onto the bus and straight into the heart of the city. Very cool, indeed, if you don't have much luggage and want to avoid waiting for a taxi.
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For those who enjoy trains, the R2 Nord line connects the airport with important stations in the city, such as Passeig de Gràcia. This is also a good option, particularly if your hotel is near one of those stations.
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The metro L9 Sud line - also connects the airport to the city. Though I've not personally used it, I hear it's also a convenient way to reach many neighbourhoods, especially if you're already versed in using the metros.
Mode of Transport | Travel Time | Cost |
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Aerobus | ~35 min | €5.90 one-way; €10.20 round-trip |
Train (R2 Nord Line) | ~30 min | €4.60 |
Metro (L9 Sud Line) | ~32 min | €4.60 |
City Bus No. 46 | ~40 min | €2.15 |
Taxi | 20-30 min | €35-40 |
2. Is it worth renting a car in Barcelona?
There is where I somehow changed my opinion a bit when I found myself in the city. I had initially thought that there was some convenience to renting a car, yet I later found that this notion is not always justified for tourists in Barcelona.
The city boasts an excellent and very developed public transport system: the metro, the buses, the trams - all these allow for fast and convenient movement within Barcelona. It is also almost a headache trying to find parking in the city center, and pricing could be downright nutty (3.5 euros per hour!). So unless you do plan on going outside of the city, use public transport.
But just getting out of the city would justify hiring a car because you would also enjoy the fact that it allows for flexibility in movement, say, Monserrat or the Costa Brava.
3. How does public transport function: metro, buses, and trams?
This one I can recommend for sure! Public transport in Barcelona is super handy and integrated. Everything works smoothly to save yourself time. For instance, one ticket can be used for the metro, buses, tram, and suburban train, which makes changing lines a lot easier.
You can purchase tickets at the vending machines located in each metro station or tram stops. And if you are going to do a lot of travelling inside the city, T-casual for 10 rides or T-dia for a day pass are the way to go. The metro is straightforward; it operates from 5:00 am to midnight and may sometimes extend its hours on weekends or holidays.
4. Are there tourist passes available?
For an in-depth tour of Barcelona, the Barcelona Card comes in very handy. This card lets you ride public transport freely and also grants you free entrance to over 20 museums. Not to mention discounts to other museums, eateries, and drink at selected sites.
5. How do I get to various places in Catalonia?
You can travel beyond the confines of Barcelona to such places as Monserrat, Girona, or Costa Brava, among others, by various means:
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If you want to see cities like Girona or Figueres, Rodalies (suburban trains) would be a lovely option. Trains operate quite regularly, relatively cheap to take, and are quite convenient to travel with.
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Intercity buses do their job very well, too, connecting Barcelona with a number of cities and attractions.
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Rent a car - if more freedom is desired, alongside access to places not ideal for public transport, renting would be a good option. This is generally the same with getting around Costa Brava.
Make sure not to add to the possible confusion here-checking schedules and purchasing tickets in advance on the official sites of the transport companies is advised.
Transportation Mode | Destination | Approximate Travel Time | Estimated Cost (One Way) |
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Train (Rodalies) | Girona | ~1 hour 20 minutes | €11-€16 |
Train (Rodalies) | Figueres | ~2 hours | €16-€20 |
Intercity Bus | Costa Brava | ~1 hour 30 minutes | €10-€15 |
Rental Car | Costa Brava | ~1-2 hours | Rental rates vary |
Train (Rodalies) + Cable Car | Monserrat | ~1 hour 30 minutes | €5-€10 |
Attractions
1. What are the must-see places?
Barcelona is a city where there is always something to see. Here are a few places I think are a must-see to really feel the city.
- Sagrada Familia - need I say it? After witnessing this temple for the very first time, I found it almost impossible to take my eyes off it! And it is not just a building. It is truly a life in stone, a Gaudi creation that is as if it has just grown out of the ground. The detail of it, the size of it-blown away! This is one of the very symbols of Barcelona, and if you want to breathe its spirit, go see it!
- Park Güell - if you like unusual and colourful places, then Parc Güell definitely has to be somewhere on your list. Once again, on display are Gaudi's fabulous mosaic benches and wonderfully quirky architectural forms. It's as if this space was simply meant to be ran around in and have photos taken in, as every corner here is a work of art.
- Casa Batlló - yet another Gaudi masterpiece! This house is simply mesmerising with its undulating lines and colourful facades. I just couldn't believe that such buildings really exist. It's like a building that came to life and started moving.
- La Rambla is lively, bustling, and such a Barcelona street that is just bursting with life. Street musicians, flower and souvenir sellers, cafes and restaurants-this place is always full of energy! If you like to feel the pulse of the city, take a walk down La Rambla.
- The Gothic Quarter is like a journey through time. Small streets, medieval buildings and secret little corners. I love just getting lost here in this maze of ancient streets, wandering into tiny squares and popping into some cosy cafes. Truly, this is the real Barcelona!
2. Which museums and galleries are worth visiting?
Well, if you are fond of art, you cannot miss the following museums and galleries in Barcelona:
- The Picasso Museum - This is the apple of my eye! It has one of the biggest collections of works of Picasso, particularly his early works. You would find it very interesting to walk through this museum and gain some insights into how this genius artist grew.
- Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC) - For someone into art history, this is an eye-opener. Inside it displays artworks from all different historical times-from the Medieval Era to the 20th century. The collection of Romanesque paintings is most impressive.
- Joan Miró Foundation - This is where you go to sink into the works of Catalan artist Joan Miró. I think the great thing about here is that they all bear connections to one another; it is almost their open, ongoing choreography of art itself.
- Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona (MACBA) - If you wish to know how art looks in the 21st century, you should not miss this museum. I loved the avant-garde and even provocative presentation of contemporary art here; it makes you feel for something new.
3. What are the best beaches for a holiday?
Barcelona is famous for its landmarks and museums, while also known for its beaches. If you are considering a sea holiday, here are the places where you can just chill on the beach:
- Barceloneta, undoubtedly the most popular beach in the city, is always animated. Any diversion from the crowd-watching, eating, and drinking along the beach is bound to entertain you here.
- Bogatell - Your choice if you want privacy but not too far from the city. This beach is calm, clean water, and with good infrastructure.
- Nova Icaria - An all-around family beach. There are restaurants nearby to grab a bite, calm waters to relax, and an ideal setting for sunbathing and dining.
If you're looking for something a bit more hidden, I'd recommend Castelldefels and Sitges. It is a little farther away from the city but is truly serene and lets you take in the beauty of nature.
4. What unusual or hidden attractions can you find?
Moreover, Barcelona hides its innumerable attractions well from travelers' eyes. Here are a couple of places I could strongly recommend:
- The Bunkers del Carmel. These have been military bunkers sitting atop a hill with panoramic views encompassing the whole of the city. There are barely any visitors here, so one can enjoy the serenity and breathtaking sunsets.
- The alley of kisses (Carrer dels Petons) is tiny but very romantic and intimate in the Gothic district. Hardly any tourists come here, but the place just reeks of love and history.
- Palacio de la Música Catalana - This Art Nouveau concert hall is an undervalued gem. Truly delightful if you're into Art Nouveau architecture.
Food and drinks
1. Where to try the best tapas and paella in Barcelona?
This city is surely a paradise for any kind of food lover. Now, do read ahead if you want to try the best tapas and paella in Barcelona. The key is that you must really take your time and enjoy the whole thing.
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Quimet & Quimet - I found out about this place through locals; it is one of the oldest tapas bars in the city. It feels historical, and those flavors are just fantastic. The menu is eccentric, and if a creative combo of flavors is what you like to experience, this is the place to go.
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Cervecería Catalana - a gem for those wishing to experiment but at the same time there'll be enough modern dishes for comfort food lovers. Places like this are loved by locals and tourists alike-and for good reason! Great tapas here. Trust me, you won't regret stopping by.
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Can Solé - A restaurant suitable for the real paella lover. Founded back in 1902, it specializes in seafood and of course, paella. A restaurant with guaranteed authenticity in Catalan cuisine.
2. Which restaurants offer authentic Catalan cuisine?
If you're looking for places to indulge in some authentic Catalan cuisine, these ones are highly recommended for a visit:
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Ca l'Agut, more than a hundred years old, has that cosiness, almost as if they prepare the dishes with love. And of course, you just can't stop yourself from indulging in traditional Catalan recipes.
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Can Culleretes is one of Barcelona's oldest restaurants, filled with history, and thankfully, the food has managed to stay quite traditional. A fitting location to enjoy authentic Catalonia.
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Els 4gats - a familiar name to many. It has hosted a gathering of artists and writers, from whence you not only get to enjoy great food but also tap into the atmosphere of history and creativity. The restaurant has a vibrant setting with a warm ambience and brilliant festivity.
3. Are there cafes with city or beach views?
There are some cafes in Barcelona where one can have perfectly delicious food while also enjoying the lovely views of the city or the beach. Below are few of these places that I have kind of gotten to love:
- Terraza Martínez, located upon the Montjuïc mountain with a fabulous view of the city and the harbour. I remember there was that evening when I just couldn't take my eyes off the view while the sun was setting; and off course the food was just as good!
- El Xiringuito Escribà - It is a seafood restaurant right on the beach where one can indulge in seafood while gazing at the Mediterranean. A place to just unwind and lose track of time.
- Mirablau - a must-see if you wish for sweeping views of the entire city-is this bar at the top of Tibidabo. It is one of those spaces where one sits, drinks, and watches Barcelona from up high.
4. What local drinks to look out for?
Next stop are the worth-drinking beverages - Catalonia has great traditional drinks for which I am sure you will have a soft corner:
- Cava - if you like champagne, then try out the local version, advanced by the name Cava. Sparkling wine that can hold its own as equals with champagne-the difference is that Cava has a Catalan twist.
- Vermouth - the special wine mostly served on ice with an olive. That is one lovely aperitif to either start the day or start the evening. Having enjoyed my fair share of vermouth on the terrace, it has become a very personal favourite for me.
- Orchata - a summertime sweet drink famed for its delightfully earthy almonds. Refreshing with an atypical taste-one sip is worth a try.
5. Where to find vegan or vegetarian restaurants?
If you're a vegan or vegetarian, relax as Barcelona offers tons of options to please your palette:
- Teresa Carles is one of the best-known vegetarian restaurants in the city, with a great variety in its dishes, which I can say are very much to my taste. I have tried several dishes, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
- Flax & Kale - for one healthily minded, it could not be otherwise. It has a lot of vegan options, and I always find something new to try here.
I liked Veggie Garden simply because it was cheap and there was a lot of variety on the menu for vegans. So, if you want to try some great plant-eater food in Barcelona, you should certainly put it on your list.
Culture and entertainment
1. Are there any interesting festivals or events during your trip?
Barcelona is not only a town of remarkable buildings and beaches but rather a true cultural capital with a plethora of colourful festivals and events on the calendar. I, for one, have always found it great to be in the city at such times since they help capture the spirit and soul of the place.
For a tourist who would be fortunate enough to catch the biggest festival of them all, La Mercè, in September, this outing would be worth the while. This is the town's major festival, and you can imagine, it is a memorable sight to behold: parades, concerts, fireworks-the whole atmosphere engulfs you with a feeling of greatness in the middle of the streets. Therefore, do not miss it!
The Sonar Festival would be another thing worth your time. It's a paradise for electronic music and multimedia lovers and usually happens in June. I went there once, and I remember the incredible sound and visual shows even now. Definitely worth going!
If you find yourself in Barcelona during August, this is a festival that you cannot miss: Festa Major de Gràcia. In the Gràcia district, the whole neighbourhood is coloured by stupendous decorations and cultural events in the squares. The ambience is truly magical.
2. How to learn more about Catalan culture and traditions?
And on top of everything food and architecture, Barcelona is about immersing oneself deeply into Catalan culture.
Check out the Museu d'Història de Catalunya and the Museu Etnològic to learn more. These museums do not limit themselves to pictures and exhibits; rather, they help you step into the region's traditions and, therefore, are good places to start understanding this unique area anyway.
Feel the city's soul? Participate in festivals, including La Merce. We had that previously mentioned. September is the best time to witness all that is wonderful about Barcelona and submerge oneself into its culture.
For a vibrant and colourful immersion into local life, then try the traditional markets such as La Boqueria. You know what that is best? Here, you not only get to walk around but taste all these incredible Catalan delicacies that do justice.
3. Is Camp Nou stadium worth watching a football match?
Camp Nou stadium is a historic venue that traditional lovers of football should try and see. It serves not only as a field where matches are held, but as well a huge stadium for the sport fanatics. I myself is not a fan of football though, I can assure you that I experienced anger and frustration while watching a game in Barcelona. Everybody is usually bound to these two emotions and one just has to go and see it for themselves.
4. What places in Barcelona would you recommend for watching mesmerising flamenco shows?
For flamenco lovers, the place they should go to is Barcelona. Flamenco is an art that is mostly associated with the south of Spain, but even in Barcelona you can see some very good performances. Here are some examples: the Tablao Flamenco Cordobes on La Rambla or the Palacio del Flamenco in the Eixample. These are the places where you can feel the true power of the dance. I always advise booking a table if the sole purpose is to attend one of the shows, as these performances tend to be excessive and very often fill up.
5. Where to find LGBTQ+ friendly places in Barcelona?
The city of Barcelona is the best city for everyone to visit. It is diverse, accepting, and made up of many different walks of life which includes the LGBTQ+ community. That means that in all likelihood, if you are looking for up to date clubs, cafes and other locations that are LGBTQ+ inclusive, you won’t have to look far. This is mainly possible thanks to the Geixample, the gay center of the Eixample neighborhood, and the surrounding streets are filled with gay bars, clubs, and restaurants. If you want a little party and don't take yourself too seriously, don't hesitate to go to DRIPMONDAY or Sala Apolo - These places will keep you engaged throughout the night.