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Traveling to Barcelona for the First Time: 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 15, 2024

Traveling to Barcelona for the first time and not sure where to start and what to expect? This article covers all the essential Barcelona travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip.

Planning your first visit to Barcelona, Spain, might be overwhelming. There are so many questions… How much time do you need in Barcelona? When to visit and how to avoid the crowds? Where to stay and what to see? Any local tips and habits to be aware of? Or how to see the best that Barcelona has to offer in a limited time and without breaking the bank?…

To help you plan your first trip to Barcelona, we selected some of the best tips for visiting the city. This no-nonsense practical guide will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your time and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Barcelona:

• Sagrada Familia .
• Park Güell .
• Montjuïc Cable Car .
• Barcelona Pass .
• Casa Batlló .

Here are our essential Barcelona travel tips:

1. Research & Book in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when visiting Barcelona for the first time is not to plan your trip in advance. So congratulations – because you are reading this, you already have a head start compared to other visitors!

Whether it’s flights, accommodations, or tickets for the main Barcelona attractions – booking in advance means that you have more choices and much better prices . It also means less wasted time queuing and more relaxing time sightseeing and enjoying this fabulous city. After all, you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Also, doing your research in advance means that you will avoid disappointment to find that the places you want to visit are closed or tickets sold out . Below are some examples that illustrate what I mean.

For example, we really wanted to see the dancing fountain of Barcelona, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc , and were told that it dances every night. However, it’s not the case. Furthermore, since we were traveling in the low season, it was actually only dancing three times a week.

Because we arrived on a Saturday and left before the next weekend, we only had one chance to see the fountains during our visit – on the first evening in the city. So despite an early flight and a very long day, we decided to go. If we hadn’t done the research -assuming that we could just see it any night- we would have definitely missed it.

We also researched whether it was a good idea to visit Montserrat Monastery on Sunday. It turns out that it’s the busiest day of the week. So we booked a tour for Monday instead…

I also heard from some of our readers that they couldn’t visit the famous Barcelona market Mercado de La Boqueria because they didn’t realize that it was closed on Sundays. By the way, all indoor markets in Barcelona are closed on Sundays.

Another reader told us that they couldn’t visit Park Güell because they didn’t buy tickets in advance and no walk-ins were possible… (Btw, Park Güell is one of the most-visited Barcelona attractions and you really have to book your tickets in advance!).

Good to know: Tickets for the most popular Barcelona attractions often sell out up to 2-3 weeks in advance. This is especially the case in high season. Plus, most entry tickets are now timed, so you need to see what’s possible and how to fit it all into your itinerary. Further below, you will find more details and tips, but if you get the Barcelona Pass , you will have the option to pre-book a timeslot for your skip-the-line entry to all the main sights.

By doing your research in advance, you can also compare prices, reviews, and itineraries for the best tours in Barcelona… This brings us to the next point.

READ ALSO: Top Sights & Attractions in Barcelona

2. Save Time & Money When Visiting Barcelona’s Main Landmarks

Visiting Barcelona for the first time also means visiting all the main landmarks and attractions. Of course, you will want to see the famous La Sagrada Familia and the other iconic Gaudi buildings and architecture! Just make sure that you are well prepared so that you don’t waste hours and days standing in lines.

TIP: If you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona, consider skip-the-line tickets for ALL the main landmarks and the most popular tourist attractions. We also recommend booking guided tours for the Sagrada Familia and the main Gaudi buildings – that way you’ll get a much better understanding of all the symbolism and stories behind the architecture.

You can find Barcelona tours and skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and also on Tiqets . More information – further below.

Skip the Line Tickets

Some of the most popular attractions in Barcelona like Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, Park Güell, or La Sagrada Familia can have extremely long waiting times. Buying your tickets in advance is essential when visiting these places in any season!

Here you can get skip-the-line tickets for Casa Batllo , Casa Mila , Park Güell , and – the most popular of them all – La Sagrada Familia .

PRO TIP: With this Barcelona Pass , you can immediately reserve timed-entry tickets for the most popular sights, including the towers of La Sagrada Familia (regular tickets don’t include tower access!). This is a digital pass, so you will get tickets per email (= very simple to book and use).

TIP: If you didn’t think of buying the tickets in advance and they are sold out, try booking a guided tour instead. Guided tours prebook tickets and make it possible to visit the main landmarks even if the tickets are sold out. I recommend visiting Gaudi’s buildings and especially La Sagrada Familia with a tour anyway. Read on to learn why!

Guided Tours

Even when we visited in the low season, all the Gaudi buildings in Barcelona were incredibly busy. Often, it wasn’t even clear where to go even if you had already pre-booked your tickets…

That’s why we chose to visit all the Gaudi buildings on a tour. Here you can read more about our experience with the Gaudi tour (we chose this amazing tour that covers all the main Gaudi landmarks in a day).

We visited Barcelona with our three kids who, obviously, have no patience when it comes to long queues. Taking a tour meant that we could relax while the guide took care of everything. We just followed the guide and never had to wait anywhere longer than 10 minutes.

I can’t imagine how different our experience would have been if we had to figure out where exactly to go and wait in endless lines everywhere. We wouldn’t have been able to see half as much, not even to mention our sanity having to deal with bored kids…

Furthermore, having a local guide who explained what, where, and why, enabled us to appreciate what we were seeing. We never knew there were so many symbols and stories behind all the tiny details in Gaudi’s buildings! Gaudi was a real genius and we would have never gotten to know any of that if we had visited his buildings on our own.

Free Museums

Most Barcelona museums have specific days or hours when you can visit them free of charge. In general, you can expect most museums to be free on the first Sunday of the month. But there are also additional times when you can enter free of charge.

For example, the Picasso Museum is free to visit on the first Sunday of the month and also on Thursday evenings. Barcelona Cathedral (not to be confused with Sagrada Familia) is free to visit between 8.30 AM and 12.30 PM and in the evenings from 5.45 PM to 7.30 PM (hours vary a bit per day and on some days are a bit longer, but the hours indicated here apply daily).

Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA Plaça del Rei) is free on the first Sunday of the month and in the late afternoon on other Sundays.

These are just a few examples – there are so many museums and other attractions in Barcelona. So do your research for the places you want to see and, if possible, time your visit accordingly.

City Cards & Package Deals

If you are planning to visit several of the main Barcelona attractions on your own, you may want to look into getting one of the city cards that offer discounts and free entrances to certain attractions and also public transport tickets.

There is also a museum card that gives access to 6 of the most popular museums in Barcelona. So do your research and see if and which card makes sense for you, depending on your interests.

TIP: If you find the choice overwhelming, we recommend this Barcelona Pass . This is the best pass for Barcelona’s top sights including Park Güell & Sagrada Familia. If you also want to visit the towers of the Sagrada Familia (recommended), then this all-in pass is the best option for you. In case you wonder, there is a lift to get to the top of the towers.

Good to know: These passes not only save you money but make it really easy to book fast-track tickets to the most popular attractions in one place. Furthermore, the tickets are digital so you don’t have to waste your time once you get there!

3. Avoid High Season, Bank Holidays, and School Breaks

As one of the most-visited cities in Europe, Barcelona is always busy . Still, there is a huge difference between visiting Barcelona in the high season (June-August), in the shoulder season (April-May and September-October + New Year), or in the low season when there are fewer international travelers and hardly any cruise ships in town.

Because we travel with kids, however, we can only travel during school breaks. For years, we have been postponing a trip to Barcelona for that reason. However, we decided that it was high time to see this iconic city and chose the first week of November (autumn break) for our trip.

We were pleasantly surprised. It was still busy at the main attractions in the city, but it never really felt too crowded or overwhelming AND we had quite a few amazing places almost to ourselves.

Needless to say that this greatly influenced our experience and we loved Barcelona so much more than I ever expected. Based on all the horror stories about the crowds, we were really fearing the worst. But what we found was a really pleasant city that gave us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sights without having to brush elbows with thousands of strangers.

Furthermore, the weather in early November was fabulous with plenty of sunshine and temperatures that were warm enough to wear a t-shirt during the day.

So if you can, visit Barcelona in the shoulder season or in the low season. It will be so much more enjoyable!

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe

4. Stay in the City Center

Another very important thing to take into account when traveling to Barcelona is where to stay .

While it’s often tempting to choose cheaper accommodation further away from the city center, we have learned the hard way that it’s not the best idea. Yes, it can save you some money, but it will cost you time and comfort. It’s so easy if you can just walk to a nice restaurant for dinner from your hotel or sleep longer in the morning knowing that your tour starts right around the corner and not on the other side of town…

So if you are visiting Barcelona for the first time and want to make the most of your short trip, stay in the city center! Also, stay somewhat close to a metro station – that way you can always get to the other parts of town quicker.

We recommend staying in the area close to Plaça de Catalunya . It’s a perfect location for sightseeing and you can easily walk to most attractions in the old town or to the nicest Gaudi buildings… There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, and most tours and excursions start in this area.

Here are our hand-picked recommendations with an excellent location near Plaça de Catalunya for all budgets:

• If you are looking for a really nice place to stay in the heart of Barcelona, check out Ohla Barcelona , a fabulous 5* hotel with a rooftop pool and bar.
• Some of the best mid-range 4* hotels are Acta Atrium Palace and  Exe Plaza Catalunya .
• If you are on a l ower budget , check out these popular and highly-rated options with excellent locations: Hotel Lloret Ramblas (the best-rated and most popular budget hotel in the center) or  Hostal Boqueria (a very good, simple hotel on a low budget).

Where we stayed: We stayed at the Acta Splendid Hotel.  The location couldn’t be better and the price/quality was unbeatable for this area.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in central Barcelona (Plaça de Catalunya area).

Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. Check it out!

5. Explore the Gothic Quarter

One of the most beautiful parts of Barcelona is the old Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). No visit to the city would be complete without exploring this fascinating area.

While the district gets its name thanks to the 13-15th century Gothic buildings, it’s actually the oldest part of Barcelona with archeological finds dating to Roman times.

The main landmarks here are the Cathedral of Barcelona (The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia), Plaça del Rei , and the underground Roman city that is part of the earlier mentioned Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA). But the real charm of the Gothic Quarter is its fascinating maze of streets and historic buildings.

TIP: This part of town can get really busy. The best time to visit is as early in the morning as possible, or in the low season.

6. Use Barcelona Metro

Barcelona is a big city and its attractions are scattered throughout. So no matter where you stay, eventually, you’ll find yourself in need of a transfer. By far the easiest and the fastest way to get around the city is by taking the metro . And, if you avoid peak times, the metro is surprisingly quiet.

There are all kinds of multi-day and multi-journey tickets available for Barcelona metro and public transport, so choose one that best suits your needs. When we traveled, we got a 10-journey card that could be used by multiple people at the same time. Names and conditions of these cards change often, and you can find the best up-to-date information on the official website .

If you’re just taking the metro (so not a bus and other public transport options), you can easily get ticket cards at any metro station as well. There are ticket machines and everything is well-explained, also in English. Credit cards are accepted.

TIP: You can also take a metro to the airport , but it takes very long (it took us over 1.5 hrs to get to the city center). Alternatively, there are airport shuttle buses that run frequently, cost about the same as the metro ticket, and take much less time. On our way back to the airport, we took a taxi and it was surprisingly affordable. You can find more information about Barcelona airport transport here .

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Just as with any city trip, traveling to Barcelona means that you’ll be walking a lot. Make sure that you wear comfortable walking shoes!

Take my word for it, wrong footwear can ruin your entire vacation. Get lightweight sneakers or slip-on shoes for your Barcelona trip. I wear and recommend shoes in this style ; they are light and comfy – ideal for city trips.

TIP: If you don’t like walking too much, consider taking a hop-on hop-off bus instead.

8. Adjust Your Dining Schedule

You may have heard this before – Spanish people have very different habits when it comes to dining times. The main meal of the day is lunch and it usually starts at around 2 – 2.30 PM. Most restaurants will not open for dinner before 8 – 9 PM.

We were a bit worried about late dinner times because we traveled to Barcelona with kids, but it worked out quite well. Since it’s such a touristy place, there are quite some restaurants that have adapted their opening times and it was usually possible to find a place to eat at 7.30-8 PM.

We were told that the best local restaurants don’t open before 8.30-9 PM, but we found plenty of good restaurants that do.

That being said, you won’t easily find a good local restaurant open for dinner before 7 – 7.30 PM.

9. Try Tapas

No visit to Barcelona would be complete without tapas . In case you don’t know what tapas are, this is just a popular Spanish word for small snacks. Like appetizers in the US or antipasti in Italy. Basically, tapas are just small-sized portions of food – from seafood, meat, to all kinds of vegetables or potatoes ( patatas bravas ).

Everywhere you go, you’ll see tapas on the menu. It’s a great way to try a big variety of Spanish food without having to order an entire dish not knowing whether you’ll like it. It’s ideal if you are traveling with a bigger family or a group of friends because you can order a big variety of tapas and everyone will easily find something they like.

Some restaurants have set tapas menus which are a real lifesaver if you are feeling overwhelmed. After a couple of tapas meals, you’ll get more familiar with the concept, and ordering tapas will actually be fun.

Good to know: Tapas are EVERYWHERE in Barcelona, but they are not the only option (luckily). If you stay in Barcelona longer, it’s quite likely that you’ll eventually get tired of tapas. No worries – there are plenty of restaurants serving traditional Spanish food, seafood, paellas, but also a big variety of international cuisines. After five days in Barcelona, our kids didn’t want to see or hear of any more tapas, so we found a really nice pasta restaurant that the whole family loved.

TIP: If you want to try some of the best local dishes, consider joining a food tour as well! Food tours are our favorite thing to do when visiting any city! Check out this highly-rated tapas & wine tour . Another popular choice is this paella cooking experience + Boqueria market visit .

10. Tipping in Barcelona

Generally speaking, tipping is not that common in Europe, and so also not in Spain. However, American habits quickly find their way here too and it’s now more and more common to tip. That being said, it’s never really expected, let alone obligatory.

In Barcelona, you do not have to tip and locals usually don’t tip or just round up the bill. If you find the restaurant service exceptionally good, you can tip 5-10%. It’s not common to tip at a bar. Taxi bills are usually just rounded up. For bellboys – a euro or two is enough.

Many people tip tour guides, but it’s really your call how much. In Europe, we usually tip 20 EUR for a day tour that we take as a family of 5. If you are alone or traveling as a couple, 5-10 EUR is acceptable, but most Europeans don’t even do that.

11. It’s OK to Haggle

If you are planning to buy any souvenirs from street vendors, at the markets, or at the tourist shops in town, you should know that haggling is completely acceptable. Very often, you’ll see that no prices are advertised and in such cases, you definitely have to haggle or you’ll be overpaying up to twice the price, if not more.

It’s also very common that the same souvenirs will cost twice as much close to the most popular tourist landmarks, compared to some lesser-visited places. However, it’s not always the case.

My best advice is not to buy souvenirs immediately. Take your time, ask for prices, and get a better idea of what’s acceptable before buying anything.

12. Know That Things Are Laid Back

Barcelona is a very laid-back place. You’ll notice it in many ways. Depending on where you’re from and what you’re used to, things might seem a bit too relaxed, or maybe just normal…

The best way to enjoy your time in Barcelona is just go with the flow. Don’t get upset if it takes a bit longer for a waiter to take your order, or if the shops are closed for siesta a bit longer than advertised…

Good thing is that Barcelona is also much more casual in terms of clothing than, for example, Madrid. There is no need for fancy clothing and even at dinner at some nicer restaurants we dined at, most people were quite casually dressed. That being said, when in doubt, I’m always in favor of overdressing.

13. Beware of Pickpockets

Just as in any other big city or popular tourist destination, Barcelona has a problem with pickpockets. These guys are real professionals and it’s not uncommon that they manage to distract attention and even rob a big group of people at the same time.

So take precautions and don’t carry too much money or any other unnecessary valuables around. Also, make sure that you have good travel insurance! Be careful at the most popular tourist places, such as La Rambla or around La Sagrada Familia, and also when using public transport.

An anti-theft backpack might be a good idea too. Or – if you have a regular backpack – wear it in front of you and not on your back. Also, it’s really not a good idea to store your wallet or your smartphone in your jeans pocket.

14. Don’t Try to See Everything

Barcelona is a huge city and there is so much to see and do ! But… there’s no way to see everything in just a couple of days. So plan your itinerary well! If you don’t know where to start, check out our tips on how to spend 1 day in Barcelona and also an itinerary for 2 days in Barcelona .

I recommend choosing a couple of must-see places each day or maybe one specific area, and not try to do it all at once. You’ll enjoy the city much more if you also leave some time for a relaxing lunch at a nice café or some unexpected discoveries.

When it comes to visiting Barcelona, remember that less is more!

I know that it’s very tempting to try and see as many landmarks as you possibly can, but you’ll just get tired and frustrated. Take your time to sample some local specialties at the market, turn into a little picturesque alley and see where it leads, or explore some lesser-known places that don’t involve standing in line for hours… This brings us to the next tip…

15. Get off the Beaten Path

Barcelona is so much more than its most famous landmarks , La Rambla, Gothic Quarter, Barceloneta beach, or Gaudi architecture… There are so many other amazing places that are worth visiting just as much, yet are overlooked by most first-time visitors.

Some of our favorite moments in Barcelona were visiting the lesser-known and less-visited places . And while it’s not easy to find any truly ‘hidden’ gems, even just getting a bit off the main tourist routes will show you a very different side of Barcelona.

One of our favorite places in Barcelona was the beautiful Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site , which we had practically to ourselves. While it is not completely unknown, it was completely deserted when we visited it in the low season… And so worth a visit!

We particularly enjoyed the Port Vell and La Barceloneta – an old fishermen’s quarter with narrow streets and local restaurants. And yes, there is a really busy area in this part of town as well – with a seaside promenade, fancy yachts, and tourist restaurants. But if you take the time to explore deeper, you find a totally different place, just a few blocks away…

The same counts for the El Born and La Ribera areas which are like a labyrinth of narrow streets and passageways – so fun to just get lost and explore this area without a map.

We also went to a more local Poublenou area and explored Gracia , L’Eixample , and Montjuïc on foot. We visited some little-known sights and some really nice markets that had many more locals than tourists (Mercado de La Boqueria is really not the only market worth seeing in Barcelona)…

Each and every area has something special and unique. Behind the busier streets and popular areas, there are always lesser-visited gems just waiting to be discovered.

Even if you just see a few of these more local areas, it will make your trip to Barcelona so much more memorable.

16. Attend a Performance at Palau de la Música Catalana

If you want to experience something really special in Barcelona, try to get tickets for a performance at Palau de la Música Catalana . This stunning music hall is a real masterpiece and worth visiting in itself, but it’s even more special if you can attend a concert here.

They organize various concerts every evening and also during the day on the weekends. From classical music and dance to the most modern musical performances and traditional Flamenco dances – there are always plenty of choices to suit any interest. Most of the time, tickets are available just a few days in advance (or even on the day itself), so check the program and go. It will be totally worth it!

Good to know: You can also just visit the music hall itself. Self-guided and guided tours are available throughout the day and take less than an hour. Here you can get tickets for your visit .

17. Escape the Hustle of the City for a Day

Visiting a busy city like Barcelona can leave you exhausted, especially if you are not used to the crowds or if the summer heat becomes too much for you.

While most tourists head to Barceloneta beach , you’ll hardly find any locals there. The better beaches (nicer and also less crowded) can be found a bit further away. Try Playa de Bogatell if you don’t want to go too far. Or – outside of town – Platja de Castelldefels in the south or Platja de Badalona in the north of Barcelona.

The most popular day trip outside of the city is visiting Montserrat Monastery . Because it’s located in the mountains, the temperatures are usually cooler there too. We also took this day trip and here you can read all about our Montserrat tour .

These are just a few examples of places to visit outside the city. There are many more beautiful areas that you can visit on a day trip from Barcelona! Here are a few other popular options:

• Catamaran Sailing Tours (1.5-2 hrs)
• Kayaking & snorkeling (half a day)
• Hot air balloon flights (half a day)
• Vineyards near the city (half a day)
• Girona and Costa Brava (full day)
• Girona, Figueres and Dalí Museum (full day)
• 3 Countries in a Day (full day)

So if you are staying in town for more than 2-3 days, I suggest you take at least one day trip to see more of the surroundings or just to escape the crowds. As a minimum, rent a bike and drive along the beach – there is a beautiful waterfront promenade with bike paths that bring you to the quieter beaches and districts of Barcelona.

18. Stay Clear of Politics and Protests

Political protests in Catalonia are not uncommon. There were huge protests and even riots in Barcelona just a few days before our trip, and there were also some violent protests in the city while we were there.

But, in general, these protests don’t really influence your travel experience much (unless they block an airport, which happened once a few years ago).

My best advice is to just stay clear of any political protests. If you see any demonstrations, just walk around or take another street. Barcelona is a big city and the chances that you’ll find yourself amidst the protesters are really not that high.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some  more practical tips  to consider when traveling to Barcelona for the first time:

• You can  pay  by credit card pretty much everywhere, but it’s always useful to have some cash as well. Spain uses the EURO .
• If you don’t have a credit card with a chip and a 4-digit pin , check out this selection of  the best American credit cards for travel and get one – you’ll need a car with a pin everywhere in Europe. I recommend choosing  a card with no foreign transaction fees .
• While you can easily get around using English , it’s always useful to learn a couple of words of Spanish or Catalan. Hola (hello) and gracias (thank you) go a long way.
• Barcelona has a pretty good network of free WiFi with hundreds of access points throughout the city. Hotels and some restaurants also usually offer free wifi.
• Download an offline map of Barcelona using apps like Google Maps or Maps.me. It’s so much easier than a paper map and you can always easily find your way around.
• Make sure to pack a travel adapter . Spain uses  European plugs .
• Remember that many shops and markets are closed on Sunday . However, most museums and other attractions remain open. We chose to do a Gaudi tour on a Sunday and it worked out great.
• Pack comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the season. It can get really warm in Barcelona and sun protection is an absolute must in summer. Don’t forget your sun hat !
• Make a copy of your travel documents and send it to yourself by email (or save it in the cloud). As with any international trip, make sure that you have good travel insurance .

So, these are some of the most important practical tips that you should know when traveling to Barcelona for the first time.

Below, you can also find some frequently asked questions for your first visit to Barcelona. Take a look!

Barcelona Travel FAQs

The best time to visit Barcelona are the shoulder months between March and May and also from September to October. The weather is best for sightseeing and it’s not as busy as in the summer.

While you can see the main landmarks of Barcelona in one or two days, we recommend at least 3-4 days for your first trip to Barcelona. This will allow you to explore the city at a more relaxed pace, visit Gaudi buildings and a few museums, and maybe even take a tour to Montserrat.

Barcelona is a very popular destination, so it’s best to book your accommodation and the tours that you absolutely want to do in advance. Make sure to book skip-the-line tickets for the most popular landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia!

Yes, Barcelona is a safe destination. However, just like in any other big European city, you should be careful with pickpockets and common travel scams. If you are not sure about visiting certain areas at night, ask your hotel for advice.

We recommend staying in the area close to Plaça de Catalunya . The location is perfect for sightseeing and you can easily walk to the most popular attractions in the city center. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby. Most tours also start in this area.

Do you have any questions or maybe want to share your experience when visiting Barcelona? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!

More tips for your trip to Spain:

• Best Things to Do in Barcelona
• Barcelona 1 Day Itinerary
• How to See the Best of Barcelona in 2 Days
• Complete Guide to Visiting Montserrat
• Montserrat Tour Review
• Best Barcelona Gaudi Tour
• 1 Day in Seville
• 2 Days in Seville
• Flamenco in Seville
• One Day in Madrid: What to See & Itinerary
• Madrid to Toledo Day Trip

READ ALSO: Spain Bucket List: Top Places & Experiences

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More travel inspiration for European cities:

If you are visiting other European cities and are looking for in-depth information for your trip, take a look at some of our city guides:

• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Antwerp, Belgium
• Bern, Switzerland
• Bologna, Italy
• Brasov, Romania
• Brussels, Belgium
• Bruges, Belgium
• Bucharest, Romania
• Colmar, France
• Edinburgh, UK
• Florence, Italy
• Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Krakow, Poland
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Liverpool, UK
• Lucerne, Switzerland
• Manchester, UK
• Milan, Italy
• Naples, Italy
• Paris, France
• Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal
• Ravenna, Italy
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Rome, Italy
• Salzburg, Austria
• Siena, Italy
• Sintra, Portugal
• Venice, Italy
• Verona, Italy
• Read also our tips for traveling to Europe .

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Tuesday 13th of June 2023

Hi Jurga! I love your blog and I'm planning to visit Barcelona in October. Did the Acta Splendid charge you a resort fee in addition to the price of the room & tax?.....Elaine

Wednesday 14th of June 2023

Hi Elaine, I don't remember hotel charging us any special fees. When you book on Booking.com, it's always very clearly shown what's included. Usually, for most places, they already include the city tax in the price, or show you how much it will be. For Acta Splendid, if I try just random dates, I see that it shows me in the booking window that 10% VAT and City tax are included in the price. What sometimes happens is that you first get charged just for the room and then have to pay the taxes at the property separately. But the total price you see on Booking is usually the total of what you'll pay in the end (unless clearly stated otherwise). That's a big difference vs. booking with hotels directly. Most hotels don't show taxes in their price at first and then add it to your bill later. This way, you might think that you are paying less but, often, it's quite the opposite. Just one more reason why we always use Booking.com for all our accommodation bookings. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Visit Barcelona

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Getting around the city

Mobility in Barcelona and its metropolitan area is effortless, thanks to the sustainable public transport network that makes getting around Barcelona a breeze. The best way to travel around Barcelona is by utilizing the efficient metro, trams, buses, and the Catalan government's city and suburban rail service (FGC), all prioritizing clean energy. Additionally, public transport in Barcelona includes a public bike hire scheme with over 200 km of bike lanes, ensuring an eco-friendly experience. How to get around Barcelona is further simplified by the fleet of taxis, featuring hybrid, electric, and natural gas vehicles. Environmentally friendly electric vehicles are also available for hire, ensuring you find the means of transport that best suits your needs.

Metro, FGC and Tram

Public transport such as the metro, tram and FGC are the quickest, simplest, most convenient and most sustainable way of getting around Barcelona. You can choose from the different ticket types and travel cards.

A fleet of over 1,000 fully adapted buses serve all areas of Barcelona. The integrated fare system means that travel cards can be used on the metro, trams, FGC and Renfe trains (zone 1)

Getting around by bike

Bicycles are a healthy, clean and silent way of getting around the city. Barcelona has an extensive and well-laid out network of cycle lanes and all kinds of services that make it easy to get around by bike. You can cycle through Barcelona's open spaces and parks.

Getting around by taxi

There are more than 10,000 taxis in the city which can be easily identified by their yellow and black livery. There are more than 300 bus stops in Barcelona and its metropolitan area providing convenient access to this service. A green light on the taxi roof indicates its availability.

Getting around with an electric vehicle

E-mobility brings energy-saving, environmentally friendly and financial advantages. It is efficient, allows the inclusion of renewable energies, doesn't generate any emissions, and reduces noise pollution... Come and explore Barcelona with a rented e-vehicle.

Park your car

Forget about your car and park it in one of our safe and convenient car parks. Public transport is the best, and most sustainable, way to get around Barcelona.

ZBE Rondes de Barcelona

From 1st January 2020 vehicles that are not registered with the Spanish traffic authority (DGT) will not be permitted to drive in the low-emission zones (ZBE). Find out here if you meet the ZBE emissions standards.

Getting around on unique means of transport

Barcelona has unique means of transport that will enable you to get around the city in a fun way on land, sea and in the air. You can discover the city on the Barcelona Bus Turístic, sail along the seafront on one of the Golondrinas pleasure boats, and ride up to the castle on the Montjuïc cable car.

You may be also interested

• Barcelona Card

Hola Barcelona Travel Card, Transport card

Barcelona by GoCar

Fundació Joan Miró (Joan Miró Museum)

Barcelona Bus Turístic Hop on Hop off

Casa Amatller

Trip to PortAventura Park and Ferrari Land

Easy Montserrat

Barcelona Card Family

Articket Barcelona

• VisitBarcelona Tickets
• Affiliate VisitBarcelona Tickets
• Barcelona Access
• Turisme de Barcelona Professional
• Barcelona Premium
• Barcelona Shopping City
• Barcelona Weddings

Barcelona Uncovered

How to Get Around Barcelona: Local’s Guide 2024

Whether New York City, San Francisco, or anywhere in between, navigating public transportation in a new city can be challenging . Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be! 

Barcelona is a breeze to navigate and the public transport system is excellent. I’m here to help you learn how to get around Barcelona like a local. 

Why should you listen to me? I’ve been living in Barcelona the last few years and I’ve never had a car! Since living here, I’ve learned to use the public transportation in Barcelona like a pro and you can too! 

This complete guide will help you understand how to travel around Barcelona – the metro, busses, taxis, and even the high speed train that can get you in and out of Barcelona in just a few hours. 

Let’s dive in!  

Walking – the best way to get around Barcelona! 

That’s right! Without a doubt, this is the easiest way to get around Barcelona . It’s safe, easy, and best of all – no traffic! Okay, so maybe there’s a little foot traffi c. But, walking in Barcelona is one of the most popular ways to get around. 

You can get to all major attractions , different neighborhoods , and endless shops and tapas bars within 30 minutes of just about everywhere in Barcelona. 

A day of sightseeing on your feet will have you navigating the streets of Barcelona with ease. 

Pro tip: Bring comfy tennis shoes. You won’t look like a tourist, that’s what we locals wear too! I pair almost every outfit with a comfy white sneaker. 

Barcelona Metro

The Barcelona metro system consists of multiple color coded lines that criss-cross through the city, connecting all major neighborhoods and points of interest. The metro is the cheapest way to travel in Barcelona. 

Metro lines 1-5 are primary lines serving the center of the city . L9,10,11 are recent additions connecting to suburbs and the airport. Metro stations are well dispersed through the city and often no more than a 10 minute walk from any point in the city. 

The metro operation times are as follows:

Monday-Thursday: 5am to midnight

Fridays: 5am – 2:00am 

Saturdays and Sundays: continual service from 5am Saturday morning to 24:00 Sunday 

If you’re planning a late Saturday night out, the metro is a great option as it does not stop from 2-5am like other days. 

Unlike the week nights, the metro doesn’t stop between 2am and 5am on Saturday nights. This means you can plan a late night out and hop on the metro to get home! 

Schedules can vary on public holidays. Be sure to check TMD website on public holidays before relying on the regular train schedule. 

T Casual Card Travel Card

The T-Casual is a great option for travelers looking to see as much of the city as possible. The card is valid for 10 journeys from zones 1-6, that will include all major points of interest and the most visited attractions in the Barcelona region. Think – Sagrada Familia, Gothic Quarter, Gaudi Houses , Barceloneta, and more. 

T Casual Card Cost: Each card costs €11.35 (this may vary, check TMD website for accurate pricing). As the Barcelona transit is an integrated fare system , your T-casual card will also be valid on buses and trams. 

Where to purchase: Cards can be purchased online or directly at any of the ticket machines in the metro station. 

If you’re wondering how to get around Barcelona without a car and on a budget, the T-casual card is definitely the best option. 

The local bus system has an extensive bus fleet that is among the cleanest and efficient in Europe . 

The network consists of urban buses – labeled with numbers and night buses – labeled with N. 

Most urban buses begin services between 5 am and 8 am , while night buses begin around 10:40pm and 11:40pm and end between 5am and 6am. 

Buses are single-deckers and are accessible for folks with limited mobility. 

The TMB (Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona) app provides real time updates on routes, schedules and disruptions. 

P.S. There is a bus that goes to the airport. 

Free Guide: 8 Tips for Staying Safe in Barcelona

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Taxis are a convenient and safe option for travelers in a hurry. Taxis are usually readily available near major destinations and can be easily flagged down on busy streets. 

You’ll also find a line of taxis and travelers waiting just outside the airport. This is a great way to get into the city if you don’t want to take a bus. 

From the Barcelona airport to city center, you can expect to pay about $30-$40. Most drivers will automatically use the meter. I also recommend avoiding a pre-negotiated rate and opt for a metered ride. 

Keep in mind there will also be a set starting rate when going to or from the airport- this is normal!

Cabify 

Cabify operates exactly like Uber and is a great option for those who don’t want to hail a cab outside. 

PRO TIP: I recommend downloading the app ahead of your visit as a text message is required for setup . If you do plan on using a ride share app, Cabify is your best bet . 

Free Now is also popular, however, you will need a Spanish number to complete setup. 

Vespa Scooters

If you're looking to explore the city like a local, hopping on a Vespa might just be your best bet. Scooters are a popular local's choice for zipping around the city - you'll see lines of scooters on the street all day.

Not only is it a fun and speedy mode of transportation, but it also allows you to take in all the sights and sounds of the city in a fun, adventurous way.

And who knows, you may even discover hidden gems along the way that you might have missed if you were traveling in a car. So, why not channel your inner Italian and cruise through the city on a stylish Vespa?

Try out a Vespa rental to scoot your way around Barcelona ►

Bikes/E-Bikes

While the local red bikes are only available for residents, there are plenty of e-bike tours to see the highlights of the city. There are tons of bike lanes throughout the city, and it’s actually a realy cool way to sightsee! 

If you’re not comfortable on a bike, however, I’d steer clear. Car and foot traffic can get crowded and overwhelming if you’re not a confident biker. 

Hop on an e-bike tour and cruise through the city's sights ►

Hop on Hop Off Tours

The Hop on Hop Off bus is a great way to see several highlights of Barcelona. With a duration of 2 hours and destinations to Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell, and Port Olimpic, you’ll quickly check off several must see destinations. 

Learning how to get around Barcelona as a tourist can be a little bit easier if you take a few hours to learn your way around the city on this bus. 

Even as an avid traveler, I still opt for a city bus tour when I visit a new city. I find it to be a quick and easy guide to learn my way around any city.

Buy your hop-on-hop-off bus tickets ►

Barcelona is a city rich in culture, history, and breathtaking sights. With so much to see, it can be overwhelming to try to navigate the city and its surrounding areas on your own . 

Luckily, there are plenty of tours available that cater to every interest and time frame . From full sightseeing tours to e-bike tours (my personal favorite way to get around Barcelona), and even tours of nearby wineries, there's something for everyone. 

If you're looking for a local guide to give you a new perspective on this city, you won't have any trouble finding a tour that fits the bill. 

And if you're looking to venture outside of Barcelona, there are plenty of options as well - from a day trips to Monseratt to tapas tours full of Gothic Quarter ’s history, the possibilities are endless. 

With so many great tours to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect way to see everything you're hoping to see in Barcelona.

Check out the top sightseeing tours in Barcelona ►

Private Tour Guides

Not sure what you want to see? Looking for something a bit more intimate? Enter: your own personal private tour guide! Choose from comfortable transportation, private bike tours, or even private photography tours.

Travel through the city with the help of a local who has all of your attention. Your guide will take you to all of the top attractions, or veer off to accommodate your interests. There’s nothing better! 

Book a private tour guide to see Barcelona’s highlights ►

Rental Cars

Wondering whether renting a car is a good idea? Here's the scoop: driving in Barcelona can be a bit of a headache. The narrow streets, limited parking, and abundance of pedestrians can make it a real challenge. 

However, if you're planning a weekend trip to Cadaques or a day trip to any of the nearby cities, renting a car is actually a great option. 

Sure, navigating public transportation in Barcelona is doable, but it can be a hassle and you might not want to rely on their schedules. Plus, some towns like Figueres require transfers from trains to busses, and that might be a bit much for some travelers! 

My best advice would be to get a rental car for the days you'll need it and drop it off for the days you'll be exploring within the city. 

Learning how to get around Barcelona with a car, for the most part, just isn’t worth it . I’ve lived here for years and I’ve never driven a car in the city. I don’t plan to either! 

Search for the best rates on DiscoverCars ►

High-Speed Train

High-speed trains, otherwise referred to as “AVE” for Alta Velocidad Espanola, reach speeds up to 186 mph / 300 km/hour.  You'll also see them referred to as "Renfe".

An alternative to flying, these lines have opened efficient connections to cities like Madrid , Valencia , Sevilla, Malaga, Zaragoza, and Paris.  

The trains are spacious, comfortable, and come well equipped with amenities like wifi and power outlets. 

Ticket prices vary based on time of departure and how far in advance they’re booked. Overall, prices are reasonable. If you’re visiting Europe for the first time and itching to try out the famous high-speed travel life, now’s your chance! 

Purchase your train tickets on Omio ►

Is there Uber in Barcelona?

After winning a local legal battle, Uber is now available in Barcelona, but is less prevalent than in US cities. 

As a local, I really don't use Uber Barcelona app. More often than not, a standard cab will show up, even when ordering via the uber app.

Since cabs are safe and often readily available, I recommend just ordering a standard taxi, as this will be quicker. 

Getting to Barcelona from the Airport 

The first question most people research before making their way to the city - how to get around Barcelona from airport! Don’t worry, there are a few ways, and they’re all quite simple . Whether you're on a budget or want to ride in luxury, there’s an option for you. 

By Public Transit - Aerobus

The blue aerobus is a quick and cost effective option connecting the airport to the city center of Barcelona. Barcelona airport has Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, each with their own Aerobus . 

Both Aerobus T1 and Aerobus T2 connect the same destinations, run on similar frequency, and are the same price. 

From the airport to the city, aerobus stops at Plaza Espana, Gran Via - Urgell, Plaza Universitat, and Plaza Catalunya (City Center ). 

You can also take the areo b us from the city to the airport . Going back to the airport, the aerobus offers pickups starting at Plaza Catalunya, Sepulveda-Urgell, and Plaza Espana. 

Terminal 1 buses operate 24 hours a day with a frequency of 5-10 minutes. 

Terminal 2 buses operate 24 hours a day with a frequency of every 10 minutes.  

Single tickets cost about €10. At the time of writing this, tickets cost €6.75 and return tickets €11.65 when purchased onsite at the airport. There are local kiosks to make your purchase when you arrive.  

Tickets can also be purchased ahead of time on Tiquets . 

Book your bus tickets to or from the airport on Tiqets ► 

Private Transfer

If you're looking for a comfortable and hassle-free ride to or from Barcelona Airport, booking a private transfer is the way to go.  

Not only will you avoid the crowds and chaos of public transportation, but you'll also be greeted by a professional driver who will be waiting for you upon your arrival. 

Even better, if your flight gets delayed, your driver will wait for you until you arrive. The price is actually incredibly reasonable for a private transfer. 

With a private transfer, you'll have the luxury of traveling in a comfortable vehicle that has enough space for all your luggage. You can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride knowing that you're in good hands.

Book your pr i vate transfer ► 

Best Things to Do in Barcelona Spain

• Complete Gaudi tour! Visit Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell, and key Guadi masterpieces.
• Taste your way through the city with a tapas and wine tour (with a local, of course)
• Spend a day lounging on the beach.
• See the skyline from another perspective on a sunset sail 
• Check out a sunset at Bunkers overlook. 

Barcelona Packing List

Here are my favorite things to pack when it comes to traveling around Barcelona (or anywhere, really!) I travel a ton , so I've got this down to a science now!

BEST BELT BAG FOR BARCELONA

I'm all about style , practicality, and affordability . Pickpockets can be a real problem in Barcelona, so keeping your belongings secured in front of you is super important.

Don't just take it from me - this belt back has high ratings and comes in EVERY color. Grab a few to match every outfit, if you want!

BEST LUGGAGE SET FOR BARCELONA

Coolife not only has some of the best-rated luggage on Amazon, but also the most variety in colors, pieces, and sets.

You'll likely want to check a bag going to Barcelona, but if you're traveling around Europe, you'll need small carry ons. Budget airlines like Ryan Air and Vuelling have smaller overhead space than you might be used to on airlines in America.

BACKPACKING IN BARCELONA

There's no question that Osprey has made a name for itself when it comes to backpacking - I recently got one myself! I had a hard time finding which one was right for me.

Lucky for you, they have a nifty "Who is This Pack For" quiz on there Amazon Storefront to help you find the perfect pack. Osprey's are expensive, but they'll last you a lifetime!

LIGHTWEIGHT SUNSCREEN

Because just like the Caribbean , the sun hits different in Barcelona! Protect your skin. And if you're traveling carry-on only, remember that Europe (specifically London ) has pesky liquid requirements to keep in mind.

PACKING CUBES

As an avid traveler, I need to squeeze A LOT into a little. Packing cubes are surprisingly space saving - and a great way to organize. I have these packing cubes - they've lasted a long time and are versatile enough to get me through every trip.

WHITE SNEAKERS

Do yourself a favor - don't show up to Barcelona without some cute white sneakers. Leave the heels at home. Walking around Barcelona isn't for the faint of heart. Keep your feet happy and go for stylish comfort.

EUROPEAN PLUG ADAPTER

These are lifesavers when traveling in Europe - 2 ports on each + 2 USB ports. They're hefty and they've lasted me a few years already, so I know they're good quality. Plus, they've got almost 10,000 great ratings on Amazon, so I'm not alone.

PROTECT YOUR PRIVACY WITH THE BEST VPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) protects your internet connection and privacy while hiding your online identity...and gives you access to your favorite streaming services on the road...

Unsecured connections to public WiFi can result in loss of personal data and even credit card information.

NordVPN is fast, secure, and affordable . Really, you should use it everywhere, not just when you're traveling!

SIM cards can be a nightmare, I get it. Airalo makes it easy to add a SIM card right to your phone - one less thing you have to worry about when you get to Europe. You can purchase a card for Spain, Europe, or Global.

Just make sure your phone is compatible before you buy! You can check in the settings of your phone.

SAND PROOF/QUICK DRY TOWEL

Going to the beach? Don't forget your towel! And definitely don't get stuck waiting for it to dry. These quick dry towels keep away the worst part of the beach (sand) and make it easy to store them when you're back in your hotel. Plus, they're super compact and light weight.

FAQ: Getting Around Barcelona On Your Own

What is the cheapest way to get around barcelona .

The cheapest way to get around Barcelona is by utilizing public transportation. I recommend purchasing a T-casual ticket. This will give you access to the metro and buses. 

Public transportation is reliable, efficient, and incredibly cost effective! Lucikly, the public transit system in Barcelona is also considered a safe option for solo travelers, families, and locals alike. 

Is it easy to get around Barcelona? 

Yes - it is incredibly easy to get around Barcelona. The city is well connected by public transport and is easily walkable. The metro system and bus system are affordable and easy to understand.   After traveling all around the world, I still believe Barcelona is one of the easiest cities to navigate. 

Is it better to Uber or taxi in Barcelona?

It’s better to use taxis in Barcelona. You’ll find that there’s less wait time with taxis and they’re more readily available.

While Uber is available throughout the city, it’s not as prevalent as taxis. In fact, on some occasions, even when you order an Uber, a taxi will show up. 

Cabify and FreeNow are also two popular ride sharing apps that are a more popular choice than Uber.  

Does Uber work in Barcelona?

Uber does work in Barcelona, but it’s not as quick as in the United States. Taking regular city taxis or using ride-share apps like Cabify and FreeNow are much more popular than Uber.

Is Cabify cheaper than taxi in Barcelona?

In my experience, Cabify tends to be more expensive than taxis. Oftentimes, apps have surge pricing where cabs are controlled by meters.

If you’re on a budget and don’t want to take public transportation, taxis are the cheaper option . Don’t worry - taxis are totally safe and always available!   

Are taxis cheap in Barcelona? 

Yes - taxis are cheap in Barcelona Taxis are incredibly cheap in Barcelona. You can look up meter rates to get an idea of what your trips will cost. 

Taxis will always accept credit cards and Apple Pay. This makes your travel needs conveneint and stress-free.

Do you tip taxi drivers in Barcelona?

No, it is not necessary to tip cab drivers in Barcelona. If you’re feeling generous, I’m sure they would appreciate it! 

Can I use my Uber app in Spain?

You can use Uber in Spain, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Just grab a taxi! Taxis are more readily available, easier to catch, and usually cheaper as well. 

Are Ubers allowed at Barcelona airport?

Technically Ubers are allowed at Barcelona airport, but it’s often a standard cab that will pick you up. 

When you leave the Barcelona airport, you'll find an orderly line of passengers waiting for taxis. Taxis are plentiful and you'll be in one and on your way within a matter of minutes.

This is efficient and often much easier than searching for an Uber.

What ride sharing app in Barcelona?

Cabify is the best ride sharing app for Barcelona. You can also use Free Now, but you need a Spanish number.

Uber is newly available in the city, though it’s not primarily used as of now. 

If you're worried about finding rides in Barcelona, you'll quickly see how easy and efficient simply hailing a taxi in the street will be!

Final Thoughts: How to Get Around Barcelona As a Tourist

There you have it. Now you know how to go around Barcelona! The public transport network in Barcelona is one of the best in the world . 

Efficient and cost effective options like the T-Casual Barcelona card open up the city to everyone . Start your morning enjoying a coffee in front of the Barcelona cathedral in the old city, then whip up to Gracia for some tasty food in the afternoon. 

This guide has given you everything you need on all things Barcelona transport. Keep this guide on you and you’ll be traveling around the city like a local your whole trip. 

Bon Voyage. See you in Barcelona!

• Barcelona in August
• Barcelona in September
• Barcelona in February
• Rooftop Bars in Barcelona
• Christmas in Barcelona
• Best Barcelona Wine Tours and Tastings
• Best Beaches in Cadiz

Rachel is Barcelona Expat and digital nomad. After a decade of traveling around, she decided to set roots in Barcelona. She now helps tens of thousands of people travel to beaches around the world, and is ready to help you plan your trip to Barcelona. To help you experience the best of Spain and this coastal paradise.

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Getting Around Barcelona: How to Get Around and Explore This World-Renowned City

Christian Petzold

It’s no secret that Barcelona is one of the top destinations in Europe. If you’re visiting, especially during the busiest time of year, you’ll likely have a hard time navigating through this city without assistance. In this article, we will discuss getting around Barcelona, including metro, bus, taxi, and many more transportation options.

Whether it be public transportation or a car service, visitors often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer number of options for getting around and exploring this renowned city. For those feeling a bit daunted, public transportation in Barcelona is relatively easy to understand and navigate. 

Public transportation in Barcelona is very similar to other parts of Europe – so regardless of whether you’re planning on taking a taxi or catching a train up north, we’ve made it easy for you! 

With its surprisingly easy-to-navigate lines, the metro system is the best way to get around for visitors. It’s affordable, convenient, and frequent, and offers an excellent alternative to driving or using a bike in this beautiful city. 

Navigating Barcelona’s Public Transport System

Barcelona, akin to bustling cities like New York, boasts an extensive web of transport systems. The transportation in Barcelona is meticulously designed to connect its varied landscapes, ensuring that both locals and tourists can delve deep into the city’s treasures. Whether you’re touching down at the Barcelona Airport or setting out from the Barcelona city center, the diverse transportation in Barcelona promises a seamless experience.

From Barcelona Airport to the Heart of the City

If you’re flying into Barcelona El Prat Airport, navigating the transportation in Barcelona to reach the city center is straightforward. Various airport transfer services complement the overall transportation in Barcelona. One standout mode is the suburban train, especially if you find yourself near Terminal 2. Yet, for others, the metro line stands as a testament to the efficiency of transportation in Barcelona, bridging the gap between El Prat Airport and vital junctions like Plaça Catalunya and Barcelona Sants.

Dive into Unlimited Exploration with the Hola BCN Card

When diving into the city’s heart, leveraging the transportation in Barcelona becomes essential. Hence, cards like the Hola BCN card or the Hola Barcelona travel card are golden tickets for travelers. These aren’t mere cards but gateways to unlimited journeys for up to 30 days, reflecting the vastness and inclusivity of transportation in Barcelona. Whether your heart is set on a tram ride, a journey on the metro line, or a scenic escapade on the cable car towards Park Guell, the transportation in Barcelona ensures you’re never left wanting.

Embrace the Vintage Vibes with Tramvia Blau

Transportation in Barcelona isn’t just about getting from point A to B. The city holds historical gems like the Tramvia Blau. This tram doesn’t just signify a mode of travel but is a journey back in time, offering passengers a glimpse of Barcelona’s age-old charm.

Tips for First-time Visitors

Whenever you’re at a station, it’s paramount to have your ticket at hand. With transportation in Barcelona being as efficient as it is, having essentials like the Hola BCN card or a single ticket easily accessible can make all the difference.

Barcelona Sants stands tall as one of the central cogs in the transportation in Barcelona machinery. Travelers from far-off places, even as distant as New York, often find themselves here, further underlining the station’s significance.

In conclusion, the transportation in Barcelona, with its vast network and efficient design, is every traveler’s ally. Whether you’re a local heading to work or a traveler chasing sunsets, Barcelona’s transport ensures your journey is smooth and memorable.

Transportation in Barcelona: Your Essential Guide

Barcelona, with its intricate blend of historic charm and urban dynamism, offers a plethora of transportation options to its residents and visitors. Here’s a deep dive into the world of transportation in Barcelona:

Public Transportation in Barcelona

If you’re seeking an efficient and pocket-friendly way to traverse the city, you can’t overlook public transportation in Barcelona. The city’s Metro system, in particular, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It’s hailed as the most effective way to hop from one landmark to another. If it’s your maiden visit, you’ll soon understand why transportation in Barcelona, especially the Metro, comes so highly recommended: it’s swift, economical, and dependable.

For those visiting the city and eager to discover its many treasures, using public transportation in Barcelona is likely the optimal choice. With well-marked routes and regular schedules, transportation in Barcelona via the Metro makes sightseeing a breeze.

Taxis: Quick and Convenient

Taxis form a pivotal part of transportation in Barcelona. The absence of alternatives like Uber doesn’t dent the city’s cab efficiency. With taxi ranks dotting the cityscape, hailing a ride is hardly ever an issue. For those less accustomed to the nuances of transportation in Barcelona, taxis can be the quick fix you need. The app, MyTaxi, further simplifies this.

Local’s tip: Credit card acceptability can vary. Before embarking on your journey, it’s prudent to confirm. And if cash is your go-to, smaller denominations might be more favorable given some cabbies’ hesitance toward large bills.

Delving into transportation in Barcelona, the Metro stands out for its user-friendly nature. With routes sprawling across the city, it guarantees reliability. The extensive operational hours, spanning from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM on weekdays, extending till 2:00 AM on Fridays, and round the clock on select holidays, ensures it caters to diverse needs.

Insider’s tip: Intend to embrace the Metro often? A T-10 pass, ensuring a ride at just 1 euro, can be a game-changer.

City Bus: Barcelona at Your Pace

Another jewel in the crown of transportation in Barcelona is the city bus. It’s not just about affordability; it’s also about the panoramic views of Barcelona’s streets. The bus routes, punctuated with several stops, guarantee extensive coverage. The frequency of the buses coupled with the clarity of routes at each bus stop makes it a hassle-free option. For those aiming for a more leisurely exploration, the hop-on-hop-off bus variant might be right up your alley.

In essence, transportation in Barcelona is a medley of efficiency, affordability, and convenience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the city ensures you’re always on the move.

Get the most out of Barcelona with Hop on Hop off Buses .

Insider’s tip: Don’t pay for anything on the bus. Get a bus ticket or T-10 pass at any metro station or tobacco store, and you’ll save half the cost of a regular ticket.

Barcelona is a fantastic city to explore from the back of a bicycle. Although our bike-sharing system (Bicing) is solely available to city residents, many bike rentals are available to provide you with all you need.

On-bike is a standard mode of transportation in Barcelona. Most people will use it as a way to get around the city. The city is relatively flat and well-connected with connecting bike lanes. If you’re not familiar with cycling, be sure to wear a helmet, especially if you plan on riding during busy hours.

Don’t miss our list of the 7 best bike tours in Barcelona .

Insider’s tip: Many roadways in the historic district and along the coast prioritize bikers and cyclists. You can use a Bike lane map to help you navigate the streets of Barcelona with ease.

Ferrocarrils

An alternative to having the bus is to take the inner-city train system in Barcelona. This beautifully-designed city railway is easy to use and enjoyable like the metro.

You can ride the Ferrocarrils to outlying areas like Sarria, Tibidabo, and other destinations. Many of these trains depart from Plaza Catalunya and go throughout the city.

High-speed Train

Spain is home to some of the world’s most advanced high-speed rail systems. Taking the Ave high-speed train to Madrid or farther south to Seville or Cordoba is the most productive way to get there!

You can purchase your tickets for the Ave online in advance to take advantage of exclusive offers.

Rodalies 

A fantastic intercity rail network, known in Spanish as the Rodalies (or Cercanias), is an excellent way to visit lovely day trip locations such as Sitges and Girona. 

Undoubtedly, traversing Barcelona on foot is one of the best ways to explore the city. In this way, you’ll be able to see the beautiful streets of Barcelona up close. The city’s pedestrian-friendly streets will allow you to follow your curiosity and take detours when necessary.

Insider’s tip: Keep in mind that not all areas in Barcelona are pedestrian-friendly. If in doubt whether a street is safe for pedestrians or not, cross at a crosswalk or a zebra crossing.

Barcelona is a beautiful city to explore on foot, and it doesn’t require much in terms of planning or research. All you need to do is enjoy Barcelona’s beautiful streets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Barcelona Metro system is extensive, with multiple lines covering the city and its suburbs. It’s relatively easy to use, with signs in both Spanish and English. Tickets can be purchased at stations.

Yes, the TMB Integrated Ticket allows you to use both the metro and buses within Barcelona using the same ticket. There are also tourist travel cards available for unlimited travel within a specific duration.

Yes, there are bicycle rental shops throughout the city, and Barcelona also has a bike-sharing program called Bicing, which is available to residents and long-term visitors.

Barcelona Airport is well-connected to the city center by airport buses, the metro, and taxis. The Aerobús is a popular choice for getting to and from the airport.

Yes, contactless credit cards can be used for public transportation fares in Barcelona, making it a convenient payment option.

Did you know?

A fun and interesting fact about getting around Barcelona is that the city has its superblocks, known as “ superilles ” in Catalan. These superblocks are areas where several city blocks are closed off to through traffic, creating pedestrian-friendly zones. Within these superblocks, the streets are designed to prioritize pedestrians, cyclists, and green spaces over cars. It’s a forward-thinking urban planning concept aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and visitors by reducing traffic congestion, noise, and pollution while promoting sustainable modes of transportation. Exploring these superilles allows you to experience a more relaxed and eco-friendly way of getting around Barcelona’s neighborhoods.

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Author’s Note

It is possible to explore Barcelona in many different ways. You can take a car, but that’s not the best option. Buses are good too, but they don’t go everywhere, and you can get stuck in traffic with everyone else. The metro is one of the best options because it has fast service and goes everywhere. Hence, it’s an excellent way to see different areas of Barcelona and experience what life is like outside the city center. 

Ferrocarrils are great for taking outlying areas such as Sarria, Tibidabo, and other destinations, while a bicycle is another great option for exploring Barcelona from a different perspective – be sure to wear a helmet if you’re not familiar with cycling. It doesn’t take too much planning or research, just get on a bicycle, grab your bike map, and take a ride,

Getting around Barcelona on foot is a great option as well, and it’s one of the best ways to explore the city because you get to see what Barcelona is like on foot instead of sitting in traffic with everyone else. All you need to do is pick a street or location and go where the desire takes you! It’s that easy!

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33 Top Barcelona Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know

• Post author: Naddya and Svet
• Post category: City Travel
• Post published: March 4, 2020

Barcelona is one of the few cities in the world which you can never get enough of.

Food, beaches, history, architecture – all these and more blend in a vibrant Mediterranean fusion, which leaves you speechless with every step you make.

Going to Barcelona for the first time, though, might seem like a daunting task because of the countless things to do in the Catalan capital.

For that reason, we’ve prepared for you 33 top Barcelona travel tips . They’re divided into six sections, so you can easily find what you’re looking for.

Ready? Use the navigation below and dive right in.

✅ Note : This article contains affiliate links . In case you purchase something through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping us keep creating the free content on this website!

Preparation – Things to Do Before You Go to Barcelona

Planning goes a long way when you’re visiting a place for a few days. And when that place is Barcelona, it’s essential (if not crucial) to do some research before you go. In this section, we’ve prepared several tips on what to do before you visit Barcelona .

• Prepare yourself for hordes of tourists . Summer is not the only busy season in Barcelona. In fact, you’ll find numerous travelers, marching the streets of the Spanish city, in every season. If you’re dead-set on escaping the huge crowds, choose neighborhoods that are a bit off the center like Gracia, Poblenou, and Poble Sec. Find more info about each of these neighborhoods here .
• Buy tickets for the attractions you want to explore . Barcelona is among the busiest cities worldwide. 5+ million people visit the Mediterranean city each year, so it’s wise to book tickets in advance. We strongly suggest that for all Gaudí buildings in Barcelona : Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Milá, Casa Batlló, Casa Vicens, etc.
• You’ll get around with English, but consider learning some Spanish . Most people in Barcelona’s central neighborhoods speak decent English. However, that might not be the case in the outskirts. So, learning some basic Spanish words (or Catalan if you’re adventurous) can be quite helpful.
• Barcelona has a reputation of thefts . Some areas in Barcelona – especially La Rambla – as well as the underground, are notorious for pickpockets. Be aware of these three types of thieves: 1) those who bump in you in order to steal your wallet; 2) those who approach your table with a map and try to snatch your cell phone while you’re distracted; and 3) those who approach you with a vague question – to distract you while an accomplice of theirs grabs your bag/purse. Always be alert in crowded areas and don’t carry a lot of valuable belongings with you.

Weather – When Is the Best Time to Visit Barcelona

Barcelona is gorgeous all year round. That’s due to many factors but mainly thanks to its fantastic location in South Europe, right on the warm Mediterranean Sea. In this section of our Barcelona travel tips, you’ll find information for each season, so you can decide better when to visit. You might also want to get our handy Travel Checklist and be ready for travel within minutes.

• Visit Barcelona in spring for sightseeing without the crowds . If you arrive in Barcelona in early spring, you’ll be up for a warm treat. The temperatures are fantastic for walking and sightseeing, the crowds are thinner than in summer, and there’s a ton of activities to do. Among the many things to do in Barcelona in spring, the most interesting ones are the Easter celebrations, kicking off with Semana Santa, and the calçotadas . The latter are traditional Catalan barbecues, which involve grilled baby leeks or spring onions and industrial amounts of red wine.

Note : Don’t worry if you’re staying at an accommodation spot that doesn’t have a barbecue. The majority of locals don’t own one either. Just venture out of the city to a merendero (picnic area) or a vineyard. They supply the barbecue. You only have to bring food and drinks. If you’re going to a winery, they’ll expect you to buy the wine from there.

• Try to avoid the heat in summer . June is still okay, and the temperatures are somewhat tolerable, but if you don’t like heat and humidity, avoid July and especially August. The latter is probably the worst time to be in Barcelona. Almost every local has escaped from the city, and all that’s left are legions of sweaty tourists from all walks of life, wondering whether the sun could get any hotter. When you’ve grown tired of the swarms, seek some coolness by visiting the monastery in the Montserrat mountains.
• Music fans and beach lovers best visit in fall . Along with spring, late September and early October are ideal for a visit to the beach. All the summer crowds are gone, and you can explore the city in a much more relaxed way. Stalls with roasted chestnuts pop up around the city, giving Barcelona a familiar seasonal aroma. The Barcelona International Jazz Festival , running mid-October to mid-December, might attract your music-loving ear. And if you love German beer, make sure the visit the Barcelona Oktoberfest at the Fira de Montjuïc in mid-October.
• No snow but wind-chill in winter . If you expect a white natural duvet in Barcelona, you’ll be disappointed. It rarely snows in the Catalonian capital. If you visit Barcelona in December, though, you’ll still be able to marvel at the gorgeous Christmas decorations that adorn the city. Just don’t forget to pack a good scarf and a jacket. The temperatures might not be below freezing, but the humidity and the wind make them feel like such.

Money-Saving & Currency Tips: How to Save a Buck or Two

Although Barcelona is not as expensive as other big European cities, such as London , for example, we still have a few money-saving travel tips for the Catalan capital.

• Buy a multi-ride ticket for the public transportation. A single ticket costs €2.40 ($2.70). But you can get a card with 10 trips, which costs €11.35 ($12.80). Since the end of 2019, you can use one card for just one passenger. Read further transportation tips in the section below.
• Avoid ATM withdrawal fees. Unfortunatelly, most banks in Spain charge for cash withdrawals. To avoid their fees, you can pay cashless whenever possible. If you still need money in your pocket, these are the banks we know don’t charge for withdrawals: Eurocaja Rural, CajaSur, and Deutsche Bank. Regardless of what bank the ATM belongs to, it’ll display the fee prior to withdrawing. If it seems high to you, cancel the transaction.
• Visit museums when they offer FREE entrance. If you’re a culture vulture, and you’d like to save some cash on tickets, a good idea is to visit Barcelona’s museums on free museum days . We’ve prepared a list with all the museums that offer free visits. Check them out below:

National Art Museum of Catalonia / Museu Nacional D’Art De Catalunya (MNAC)

Discover Catalonia’s art history via its Baroque, Gothic, and Romanesque collections. One museum – 1,000 years of art.

Free entrance:

• Every Saturday after 3:00 PM;
• First Sunday of the month;
• May 18 th (International Museum Day);
• September 11 th and 24 th .

Museum of Barcelona History / Museu D’Història De Barcelona (MUHBA)

Learn all about Barcelona’s and Catalonia’s history in the MUHBA.

• Free entrance: every Sunday from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

The Museum of Catalonia History / Museu D’Història De Catalunya

Explore the history of Catalonia from its early roots to the modern day in the Museum of Catalonia History.

• Free entrance: first Sunday of the month.

The Blue Museum / Museu Blau

Science fan? Then, you’ll absolutely like The Blue Museum, located in a building with contemporary looks.

• Free entrance: first Sunday of the month after 3:00 PM.

Picasso Museum / Museu Picasso

With more than 4,000 works, the Picasso Museum is home to one of the most comprehensive collections of artworks by the world-famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso.

• Every Thursday after 4:00 PM;
• First Sunday of the month.

Maritime Museum Of Barcelona / Museu Maritim De Barcelona

Find everything you want to know about seafaring in Barcelona Maritime Museum.

• Every Sunday from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM;
• May 18 th (International Museum Day).

This young gallery, which opened its doors in 2002 in a former factory, is becoming more and more popular nowadays thanks to its numerous art exhibits.

• Free entrance: every day .

Ceramic Museum of Barcelona / Museu De Ceràmica

Find temporary and permanent collections of Spanish ceramic art in the Ceramic Museum that opened its doors back in 1966.

• Free entrance: every Sunday.

Center Of Contemporary Culture of Barcelona / Centre De Cultura Contemporània De Barcelona (CCCB)

The core theme of this arts center revolves around the city and urban culture.

Chocolate Museum of Barcelona / Museu De La Xocolata

If you’re a chocolate fan, and you’d love to see a chocolate version of the Sagrada Familia, then Museu De La Xocolata is your place.

• Free entrance: every Sunday from 3:00 PM.

Antoni Tapies Foundation / Fundació Antoni Tàpies

Devoted mainly to the life and artworks of the painter Antoni Tàpies, this museum and cultural center opened its doors in 1984.

• September 24 th .

Food & Drinks in Barcelona: The Mediterranean Orgasms You Shouldn’t Miss

Most Spanish dishes can easily hold the name “Mediterranean orgasm”, so you can’t go wrong with food regardless of your location in Spain. In this section, we’ll focus on the food and drinks in Barcelona, and the ones you MUST try.

• Mind the eating times . One of the favorite activities of Spaniards is eating and drinking. This applies to all seasons, but in summer, you won’t see anyone having lunch before 1:30 PM and dinner before 9:00 (even 10:00) PM. Of course, you might be able to find some restaurants that serve lunch or dinner earlier. Most of the time, though, the only things available around 7:00 PM are a drink and some snacks.
• Try the paella . Stemming from Valencia, paella used to be made with meat and beans instead of fish and shellfish. Nowadays, you can order it almost everywhere in Spain, and since Barcelona is also a coastal city, you won’t have trouble finding great paellas. To facilitate your choice, these are the best places for paella, all situated in La Barceloneta neighborhood:
• Can Sole; and
• Don’t forget to taste “Barcelona’s paella”. If you want to immerse yourself fully in the Catalonian culinary scene, a better option than paella is fideuà . Basically paella in both size and stature, the fideuà epitomizes toasted vermicelli (a type of pasta/noodles) instead of rice. Ali-oli, the delectable creamy garlic sauce, enhances the dish’s deep flavors.
• Bombas will please your palate . The name “bomba” stems from the food’s shape – a ball. Similar to croquetas, bombas combine meat and mashed potatoes, which are then formed into a ball, covered in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried. Sizes vary from small bite snacks to a tennis-ball bombas. Spaniards share bombas like tapas, and eat them with aioli.
• Like tomatoes and bread? Try the Pa amb tomàquet . Tomato bread (pan con tomate in Spanish) is a staple of Catalonian cuisine. Similar to rice in China and other Asian countries, Catalans consume tomato toasts every day. Pan con tomate is slightly different at each restaurant. Sometimes, they grill the bread, sometimes they warm it. Other times, they rub garlic on the bread, and in some restaurants, there are more tomato chunks.
• Try the Mató for the ultimate cheese seduction . A lot like ricotta cheese, the soft, sweet and spreadable Mató is unsalted goat cheese that comes with honey and walnuts. The cheese makes for the perfect Barcelona dessert .
• Sweettooths should try the Spanish “Crème brûlée” . Crema Catalana is a dessert that consists of rich vanilla custard base, topped with hardened caramelized sugar. Once you crack open that caramelized top, you’re in for a tantalizing treat.
• You can order the tasty Sangria in almost every bar or restaurant. However, locals prefer to drink red wine or cava, the Spanish sparkling wine.
• Speaking of wine, you’ll have a hard time deciding which one to try first. Spaniards don’t reserve their cava just for special occasions. In fact, you can order it with or without any meal. As for dry red wines, the most popular varieties among locals are D.O. Penedès and Priorat .
• One of the best restaurants in the world stands just 65 miles northeast of Barcelona . El Celler de Can Roca in Girona, Catalonia, received the award “best restaurant in the world” in 2013 and 2015. The 3-Michelin-star restaurant serves traditional Catalan food with creative twists. The restaurant’s wine cellar prides itself on a vast collection of 60,000 bottles. Girona and the restaurant are a great idea for a day trip from Barcelona .

Traveling in Barcelona: Types of Transportation and Getting Around the City

In this section of the Barcelona travel tips, you’ll find information on the various types of transportation in the Catalonian capital.

• The metro system in Barcelona is vast . Its 12 lines cover most of the city. It’s one of the most convenient ways to travel around Barcelona, but bear in mind that in summer, it’s very hot inside the tunnels and underways.

Barcelona Metro Hours:

Regular Hours:

• Monday through Thursday – from 5:00 AM until midnight.
• Friday – from 5:00 AM until 2:00 AM.
• Saturday – from 5:00 AM until Sunday morning.
• Sunday – non-stop.

During Public Holidays:

• Normal holidays – from 5:00 AM until midnight.
• June 23 rd , August 14 th , September 24 th , December 31 st – from 5:00 AM until the next morning without interruption.
• December 24 th – from 5:00 AM until 11:00 PM.
• December 25 th – from 5:00 AM until 2:00 AM.
• Barcelona has one airport, El Prat . You can hop on a bus to reach the city center. Usually, the bus stops at Plaza Catalunya. You can get a single or a return ticket (the return ticket is handy as you can use it within two weeks). The airport has two terminals (T1 and T2), which are 2.5 mi (4 km) away from each other. A FREE shuttle bus connects the terminals.

How to get from El Prat to Barcelona:

By metro : Metro line L9 Sud runs between the airport and Barcelona. You’ll find the stops at T1 (inside) and T2 (outside, next to the train station). Just follow the signs, and you’ll get to the stations. The line runs to Fira Gran Via’s South Entrance in Barcelona.

By Aerobus : The quickest way to get to Barcelona is the Aerobús. Two lines connect T1 and T2 with Plaça Catalunya. The price of a single ticket in 2023 is €6.75 ($7.40).

Note : This is our preferred way to travel to Barcelona.

By train : You’ll find the station in Terminal 2. Trains run from El Prat to Barcelona every 30 minutes from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM. Get the train from Barcelona to the airport (stop Aeropuerto) from either of these stations: Sants (Sants Estacio) or Passeig de Gràcia. There are metro stops close to the stations.

By taxi : Find the taxi stops in front of each terminal. A ride to/from the airport costs between €25.00 ($28.00) and €45.00 ($50.00).

By car : Just follow the signs for C-31 or C-32 that go toward Barcelona. The time to get to the city is approximately 20 minutes.

You can find more info about transportation between El Prat and Barcelona on the official airport website here .

• An extensive network of buses crisscrosses Barcelona . With close to 100 lines, you can literally go anywhere by hopping on a bus. A single bus ticket costs €2.40 ($2.70), but you can get a T-casual card that has 10 journeys in Zone 1 for €11.35 ($12.80). You can use the card for bus, tram, and metro.

Note : Download the Barcelona bus map to plan your journey. 

• Some means of transportation have FREE Wi-Fi . Most buses, as well as several metro stations, provide you with a free Wi-Fi connection. Its speed is decent. If you need to charge your cell phone, metro Line 2 has USB charging points in the trains and also at some stations.
• There are night buses in Barcelona . If you like partying past midnight, and you’d still like to avoid splurging on taxis, don’t worry. Barcelona maintains 17 night bus routes. With the exception of N0, all other routes go through Plaça de Catalunya. Use this link to consult the timetables of the night buses in Barcelona.

Where to Stay in Barcelona: Best Neighborhoods and Accommodation Spots

From shimmering beaches through a vibrant culinary scene to pulsating nightlife, the fascinating Catalonian capital attracts people from all around the globe.

Barcelona is one of our favorite cities in Europe. Every time we visit, we always get to the question, “ Where to Stay in Barcelona? ”

Choosing your accommodation in Barcelona can be a bit overwhelming at first due to the city’s various neighborhoods. Say no more – we’re here to help you!

In this section of our Barcelona travel guide, you’ll find the best areas, neighborhoods, and accommodation spots.

• The Charming Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) – the Best Barcelona Area for History. Teeming with charm and captivating history, the Gothic Quarter has a past of over 2,000 years. The bustling Barcelona neighborhood prides itself on numerous places to visit, including charming cathedrals, narrow streets, trendy bars, and Catalan restaurants.Throw in artisans, flower stalls, and jewelry stores, and you’ll begin to feel Barri Gòtic ’s unique charm.
• The Mystical El Raval – the Best Barcelona Neighborhood for Tapas and Clubbing. Fancy beer, tapas, and buzzing nightlife? Then, you should check out El Raval . Often overlooked in the past, the area has become a must-visit spot for foodies and beer aficionados.An international melting pot of cultures, Chinese, Eastern Europeans, Filipinos, Pakistanis, and South Americans reside peacefully in this fascinating slice of Barcelona.
• The Elegant Gràcia – the Best Barcelona Area for Architecture. Many of Gaudí’s masterpieces, including Casa Vicens, Sagrada Familia, and Park Güell, call Gracia their home. For that reason, we’ve chosen this neighborhood as the best one for architecture lovers. But besides drop-dead gorgeous architecture, along Gràcia ’s 19 th -century boulevards and pedestrian lanes, you’ll find peculiar galleries, arthouse cinemas, and indie boutiques.
• The Hipster Sant Antoni – the Best Barcelona Neighborhood for a Modern Vibe. Hip cafés and brunch places are mushrooming around the up-and-coming Sant Antoni area. Fancy a fancy donut, a hipster coffee bar, or a discount clothing stall? Throw in a host of second-hand stalls and centuries-old markets, and you’ll picture what it’s to walk around Sant Antoni. The area doesn’t have notable landmarks, which makes it a great spot if you’re seeking an escape from the crowds.
• The Serene El Poble-sec – the Best Area to Feel Like a Local. If you wanna escape the city buzz and find some solace in charming squares, consider El Poble-sec . The place is quiet during the day but enlivens at night when all the bars open up at Carrer de Blai. Want some cheap tapas (check out Quimet & Quimet ), vermouth pleasures, and to feel like a local? Then, this is your place to stay in Barcelona. Bonus – Montjuic Castle and the Magic Fountain are within a walking distance.
• The Vast El Poblenou – the Best Barcelona District for Design Inspiration. Home to captivating design showrooms, the impressive Torre Agbar Skyscraper, and the futuristic Barcelona Design Museum, El Poblenou is your Barcelona neighborhood to stay at if you like modern looks. Hipster coffee bars, fashionable markets, and factories converted into tech offices add more color to this already lively area. Get an ice cream from one of the many vendors at Bogatell Beach and watch a volleyball game.
• The Glitzy La Barceloneta – the Best Barcelona Neighborhood to Visit the Beach. If you’re a beach bum, consider staying in La Barceloneta . One thing to have in mind, though – many locals live there and ferociously defend the area’s tranquility. So, if you happen to find yourself partying until the small hours, try to keep it down a bit. Besides locals surfing or sunbathing, you’ll also find many family-run restaurants in Barceloneta, which serve home-brewed beer and delectable local delicacies. Hop on the Port Cable Car from Montjuïc Hill to marvel at a gorgeous panoramic view of the neighborhood.

Which One Is Your Favorite Barcelona Travel Tip?

There you have it – all Barcelona travel tips that you need for a memorable visit.

Barcelona is enchanting all year round. The gorgeous Catalan capital enjoys a mild climate, which makes it perfect for every kind of traveler. We hope that you’ve enjoyed reading our Barcelona travel guide, and you’re now better prepared to visit this fantastic city.

Just don’t forget to stop from time to time, have a rest, and take in every inch of Barcelona’s magnificence.

Now, we’d like to know:

When are you going there?

If you’ve already been to Barcelona, what impressed you the most?

Naddya and Svet

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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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3 Days in Barcelona: The Perfect Itinerary For First Time Visitors

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From Antoni Gaudí’s Modernist architecture to top-notch art museums and delicious food, seeing Barcelona in 3 days can be a bit of a challenge. To help you out, I’ve created the perfect Barcelona itinerary for first-time visitors. It covers useful travel tips and all the best things to do in Barcelona in 3 days .

Barcelona is one of the most fascinating and visited cities in Europe. It’s fun and tasty and worthy of anyone’s bucket list.

It’s also a bit peculiar in the sense that I’ve always thought Barcelona was somewhat of a one-man show. Of course, this is an oversimplification. But think about it for a moment. What’s the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions Barcelona?

For most people, it’s either the opulent Sagrada Familia or another one of Gaudí’s thought-provoking houses. They are among Barcelona’s top attractions and you could easily organize a whole trip around them.

Nonetheless, my 3 days in Barcelona guide goes beyond Gaudi’s masterpieces and covers all the best things to do and places to visit during a long weekend getaway.

I tried to include as many highlights as possible and organize each day around attractions that are close together. I did this for convenience and to minimize the time spent on public transport.

This means I might have skipped some sights that are of great interest to you. At the end of this article, I listed a few other attractions. If you consider any of them a priority, simply add them in.

How to spend 3 days in Barcelona

This 3 days in Barcelona itinerary is designed for art and culture lovers. You can use it to plan a city break in Gaudí’s city or as part of a longer trip through Spain (see my 2 weeks in Spain itinerary for inspiration).

These suggestions for what to do in Barcelona in 3 days are a good starting point for organizing your trip. If you’ll spend more than 3 days in Barcelona, I’ve also mentioned a couple of day trips you can take.

Barcelona is a super popular destination. Expect long lines, especially if you visit during the summer months. To save hours of waiting, I recommend booking your attraction tickets in advance. Whenever that is possible, I’ve included a link so you can do it right away.

The best of Barcelona in 3 days Day 1  — Modernist architecture, Picasso and tapas Day 2  — Lots of Gaudí and some trully spectacular views Day 3  — Miró, a trip around Spain and a bit of magic

Day 1: Modernist architecture, Picasso, and tapas

Whenever I visit a new city I like to get a feel of it by sampling a bit of everything it has to offer.

So on the first day, I suggest you see some world-famous landmarks as well as discover the old town. Eat some tapas . Maybe even some paella. Paella is often regarded as Spain’s national dish (see these super interesting paella facts ) and while the best paella restaurants are in Valencia where it originated, it’s not difficult to find paella eateries in Barcelona. Then end the day on a relaxing note.

This day involves quite a bit of walking. Make sure you put on comfortable shoes. Bonus points if you are well-rested.

Coffee is cheap in Barcelona and you’ll find an abundance of cafés. If you need a mid-morning or mid-afternoon pick-me-up, it’s easy to find a terrace.

Sagrada Família

Sagrada Família is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain and a great starting point to your 3 days in Barcelona itinerary. Construction work started back in 1882 (that’s not a spelling mistake!) and while it’s still under construction at the time of writing this, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is the masterpiece Gaudí was working on when he tragically died as a result of a tram accident. The basilica is scheduled to be completed in time for the centennial of Gaudí’s death (aka 2026).

The basilica is pretty spectacular on the outside with its 18 towers reminiscent of a sandcastle. But it’s on the inside that Gaudi’s genius really shines through.

This is one of Barcelona’s most popular attractions and tickets sell out quickly. It’s best to book yours online in advance so you can pick the time slot that suits you best. Optionally, you can upgrade your ticket to get access to the towers (recommended).

Palau de la Musica Catalana

Up next, I recommend you head towards the Palau de la Música Catalana. This is Barcelona’s most lavishly decorated concert hall and one of the most magnificent concert halls in the world (it constantly ranks among the top 10 next to Teatro La Fenice in Venice and Palais Garnier in Paris).

The venue was designed by Catalan art nouveau architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner and it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site next to Hospital de Sant Pau.

Walking from Sagrada Família to Palau de la Musica Catalana takes about half an hour. If you’ve purchased the Hola Barcelona Card (more about it below), it’s time to put it to good use.

From street level, the concert hall looks like it has been squeezed between buildings. Due to this, it’s difficult to fully appreciate the stunning facade. But once inside, you’ll discover the most magnificent stained glass ceiling and splendid interiors.

During the guided tour you will learn about the relationship between Gaudí and Lluís Domènech as well as have access to parts of the concert hall not otherwise accessible to the public.

Hot tip: This is a wonderful place to see a performance. They organize anything from classical music concerts to flamenco. Check what’s on during your visit. This is a delightful way to end any of your three days in Barcelona.

Picasso Museum

If Pablo Picasso’s paintings tickle your fancy, Barcelona has one of the world’s best museums dedicated to his works.

The museum is located in the Born neighborhood, a short walk from Palau de la Musica Catalana. The building alone is worth the detour.

Picasso was born in Malaga , in the south of Spain, but moved to Barcelona with his parents at the age of 13. The Picasso Museum in Barcelona has a vast collection of the artist’s early works (over 4,000 pieces!) and it’s really interesting to see his transformation from early realism to cubism and one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

The Barcelona Cathedral

Although living somewhat in the shadow of the ultra-famous Sagrada Família, Barcelona’s Gothic Cathedral never fails to impress me.

Construction work started at the end of the 13th century. Nevertheless, it wasn’t completed until the 20th century when the imposing facade and central tower were finally finished. I’m starting to notice a trend here but maybe it’s just proof that good things take time.

The interior is free to visit, except for the choir and the rooftop. It offers a refreshing refuge from the hot summer sun, so I recommend you go in.

You are now in the Gothic Quarter, one of Barcelona’s most interesting neighborhoods. You can easily get lost on purpose in the warren of narrow and atmospheric streets. It’s okay if it takes you longer to get to the next stop. These are your 3 days in Barcelona and you can make the most of them any way you wish.

La Boqueria Market

Situated right on the famous La Rambla, Boqueria Market is often regarded as one of the best food markets in the world, alongside Borough Market in London and Tsukiji Market (now Toyosu Market) in Tokyo .

It’s a wonderful place to shop for fresh produce or have a mid-afternoon snack. You’ll find tapas bars, fresh fruit smoothies and a maze of stalls selling vegetables, fish, spices and everything else in between.

If you’d like to tour the market in the company of a chef and learn to prepare some famous local dishes yourself, you can book a tour below.

Palau Güell

Walking down La Rambla towards the harbor, you’ll pass by Palau Güell. This is another, lesser-known building by Antoni Gaudí, but worth a visit nonetheless.

This palace was built for the industrial tycoon Eusebi Güell and is a UNESCO listed building, together with the other Gaudí masterpieces mentioned in this Barcelona itinerary. Personally, I loved exploring it just as much as I loved Casa Mila and Casa Batlló.

Palau Güell is one of Gaudí’s first important commissions. It’s impossible not to be surprised by all the fantastic elements all the way up to the playful rooftop. I wonder what living here was like!

Columbus Monument

Keep on La Rambla or Las Ramblas — this 1.2 kilometers (0.75 mi) tree-lined promenaded dividing the old town in two is actually a group of five streets!

As you pass by the famous street performers, colorful flower stalls, and souvenir stands, it’s impossible not to feel the contagious energy. This street is one of Barcelona’s landmarks and arguably if you haven’t walked on Las Ramblas, you haven’t seen Barcelona.

Keep in mind, however, that Las Ramblas gets very busy. If crowds bother you, maybe it’s a good idea to take one of the side streets all the way to Columbus Monument.

This monument is actually a 60 meters high column with Christopher Columbus’ statue on top. It marks the end of Las Ramblas and it’s impossible to miss it.

While the monument might not look like much, it skillfully hides a lift inside the column. You can take it all the way to the top for some spectacular panoramic views over Barcelona, Las Ramblas, and the harbor.

Sunset cruise

After doing so much walking on your first out of 3 days in Barcelona, it’s time to relax.

To accomplish this, you can either find a rooftop terrace — the one atop The Serras Hotel is pretty spectacular if you ask me, plus it overlooks the Port Vell harbor and has a cocktail pool!

Or you can go on a sunset cruise. This is a wonderful way to end the day and celebrate your visit to Barcelona.

Some cruises have live music, others include complimentary drinks and light snacks. All of them are incredibly romantic and meant to help you unwind while watching the sun setting over the city.

Day 2: Lots of Gaudí and some truly spectacular views

The second day of this itinerary is dedicated almost entirely to Gaudí. He is such a prominent figure and his buildings are one of the main reasons people visit Barcelona. His works are of paramount importance and changed the face of the city forever.

What’s more, seven of his buildings are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. During this 3 days in Barcelona itinerary, I mention six of them. The seventh is the Crypt in Colonia Güell which is located 30 minutes outside of Barcelona and can be visited by train.

Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló, with its colorful, undulating facade and dragon-shaped rooftop, is Gaudí’s most famous house. It is located on Passeig de Gracia, one of Barcelona’s fanciest streets, among many other interesting and grand houses.

Even from street level, this house looks alive. But don’t settle for the facade alone. The interior is mind-blowing too.

Plus they recently inaugurated an absolutely stunning immersive tour that offers the chance to experience it like never before. This is the first ’10D experience’ in the world and it basically reinvents the museum visit.

Since Casa Batlló is a one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona, it is best to buy your tickets online in advance. This way, you will enjoy every minute of your 3 days in Barcelona, instead of waiting in line. Plus buying tickets at the ticket offices is more expensive.

Just 6 minutes away, Casa Milà aka La Pedrera aka ‘the stone quarry’, is Gaudi’s second most famous house. The grey facade might not be an eye candy in the same sense Casa Batlló is. But the limestone flows in waves and I’ve always found this quite interesting.

If you go in (I highly recommend it!), you’ll be free to explore the courtyards, the attic, the rooftop with all its alien-looking chimneys (Star Wars Stormtroopers helmets were inspired by them!), and even some apartments that are open to the public.

The views from the terrace are great as well and you can see Sagrada Família’s towers just 1.7km (1 mile) away. Again, I recommend you get your tickets online in advance.

Although Casa Milà is larger than Casa Battló and can fit in more people at a time, the lines are usually pretty long as more than 3,000 people visit every day.

Casa Vicens

A bit further down (you might want to take the metro for 1 stop), Casa Vicens is the first house designed by Gaudí and one of the first Art Nouveau buildings in the world.

This house only recently opened to the public. So even if you’ve visited Barcelona before, it’s unlikely you’ve seen anything other than the intriguing facade.

In the past years, the house has been beautifully restored and you can now visit the colorful interiors and gardens.

Park Güell is yet another of Gaudí’s heritages. It’s situated on a hill, so I really recommend you hop on a bus (bus 116 will leave you right at the door) unless you are in need of a workout.

If you’ve spent the first part of the day visiting Gaudí’s houses, this park is a nice opportunity to see something a bit different and enjoy some fresh air in the afternoon sun.

The park is famous for its gingerbread looking houses and serpent-like tiled bench. I recommend you to slow down, take in the views, unwind in this beautiful and intriguing setting and snap a selfie with the famous salamander.

Like all the other Gaudí attractions in Barcelona, the park is incredibly popular and tickets tend to sell out early in the day.

If you’d rather have a guide explaining to you all the different elements and enjoy skip the line entry (they normally only let in 400 people every half hour) you can book it below.

Sunset from Tibidabo

After all the beauty I hope you’ve enjoyed on your second day in Barcelona, I propose you finish with a sunset from Tibidabo.

This is one of the mountains overlooking Barcelona and it has a small amusement park as well as an iconic church called Sagrat Cor right next to it.

Getting from Park Güell to Tibidabo can take a bit over an hour (you can get the funicular). So this only makes sense if you visit during the summer months when the sun sets late. Or if you’ve skipped some of the attractions mentioned above.

Also, keep in mind that the sun rises from the sea and sets behind the mountain. The views from Tibidabo are spectacular at any time of the day. But I happen to think they are better at sunset.

Day 3: Miró, a trip around Spain and a bit of magic

Montjuic is another famous mountain in the city of Barcelona and it hosts a number of attractions. I’ve selected the ones that I considered the most interesting ones. B ut you can, of course, mix and match according to your own interests.

The Montjuic funicular is included in the Hola Barcelona Card if you’d like to go up this way. From the mountain, you can enjoy beautiful views over Barcelona, visit the castle, the Olympic Stadium, and several gardens. You can take the funicular from the Metro Paral·lel station.

Joan Miró Foundation

If you like Joan Miró’s surrealist paintings, the foundation he himself established in his native city is a must-visit. The funicular leaves you on the same street where the museum is situated.

Besides Miró’s works of art, the foundation also hosts contemporary art exhibitions as well as works by Peter Greenaway, René Magritte, and other famous artists.

The idea behind the museum was to encourage young artists to give free rein to their imagination. The modern building features courtyards and terraces and it’s a nice place to spend a couple of hours.

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

A short walk away, Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya is another interesting museum you can visit. It showcases works of art by local artists from across the centuries, including a vast collection of Romanesque church paintings.

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya definitely has a different vibe compared to the Joan Miró Foundation. You might prefer one over the other, depending on whether you’re more of a fan of contemporary art or classical art.

The building itself is impressive and it’s worth admiring from both inside and out. If you climb to the roof (there’s a lift for that) you’ll we rewarded with some gorgeous views of the city, including the Magic Fountain at the foot of the hill.

Poble Espanyol

If you want to spend the afternoon in the sun, Poble Espanyol is an impressive open-air museum only 10 minutes away on foot.

It features 117 houses from various regions of Spain, highlighting the architectural and cultural diversity of this beautiful country. Many of the houses are real-life scale replicas of actual houses.

The genius of the museum, however, lays in its flow. One moment you’ll feel like you’re in Seville , then in Valencia a few steps further.

The museum was designed to feel like a real village and even has a town hall, shops, and restaurants. It was built in 1929 for the World Fair and has been delighting visitors ever since. Tickets can be purchased here.

Las Arenas Shopping Centre

If you want to do some shopping or have a mid-afternoon snack, Las Arenas Shopping Center is a good option. This used to be a bullring. But since Catalonia banned bullfighting years ago the massive brick building has been converted into a fun shopping mall.

This is an impressive structure and I do recommend you take a good look at it from close by. The rooftop is worth a visit as well. I found the glass floor scary and thrilling at the same time.

There are also plenty of restaurants in case you want to sample a few more Spanish delicacies before you head back home. Or simply enjoy a beer on a terrace with a view.

Magic Fountain

The last stop on this 3 days in Barcelona itinerary is a spectacular light and sound show. This is a wonderful way to end your trip if you ask me. Plus it really is one of Barcelona’s top attractions.

The Magic Fountain is best enjoyed from the steps of the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya. It gets pretty crowded though. So if you want to get a good spot, you have to arrive there early.

The showtimes change with the seasons since the sun sets later in summer. But it’s one of the most magical experiences you can have in Barcelona. They call it the Magic Fountain for a reason!

Keep in mind that the fountain is closed for maintenance during the winter months (roughly January and February) though.

Other things to do in Barcelona

Of course, I understand that not everyone might be as obsessed with Gaudí’s work as I am. I love modernist architecture and always make it a priority. If you’d rather skip some of the houses or museums I’ve mentioned above, here are other things you can do.

• Fly high above Barcelona. This tour includes a stroll through the Gothic Quarter, a boat ride and a helicopter flight. Woohoo! Helicopter flights are always fun and Barcelona is a wonderful city to see from the air.
• Visit the Camp Nou stadium. This is the home of FC Barcelona. While not a football fan myself, this tour is highly regarded by Barça and football fans in general.
• Hop-on hop-off bus. There are lots of beautiful streets you most likely won’t see when visiting Barcelona in 3 days. This bus tour will give you the opportunity to see architectural jewels you’d otherwise miss.
• Go on a bike tour. Barcelona is incredibly busy and though it has plenty of bike lanes, I find it best to join a tour. Your guide will know to avoid high trafficked areas and your ride will be more enjoyable and relaxed.

How to move around Barcelona

Barcelona is a big city. Contrary to Madrid, which is pretty compact and can be easily visited on foot, Barcelona’s attractions are fairly spread out. So walking from one site to the next is not always the most convenient option.

Luckily, Barcelona’s public transport network is extensive and efficient. And with only 3 days in Barcelona, it makes sense to hop on the metro or bus every once in a while.

That’s why the Hola Barcelona Card is a great option for budget-savvy travelers. This card gives you unlimited journeys by metro, bus, and tram for a duration of 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours. It also includes the metro service to and from the El Prat airport and the Montjuïc funicular.

The 72-hour card costs €22.20. When you take into consideration that a single ticket costs €2.20 (or €4.60 for the airport) getting the card prior to your visit has the potential to save you a handsome sum of money.

If you arrive the day before and leave the day after (so you spend a total of 4 nights in Barcelona), it makes more sense to get a 96-hour card for €28.80 though.

Things to do near Barcelona

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Barcelona, here are a few day trips you can take.

• Cava, wine and tapas tasting. Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine similar to champagne. Most of it is produced in the region of Catalonia. Catalonia is also a big wine producer. On this tour, you’ll visit 2 bodega s (cellars), sip some bubbly and walk through 2,000 year-old vineyards.
• Girona & Figueres. Girona is a pretty little town north of Barcelona and a Game of Thrones filming location. Figueres is home to the fabulous Salvador-Dalí Theater-Museum. They are both charming and worth a visit.
• Hot air balloon ride over Catalonia. The rugged Catalan landscape provides the perfect backdrop for a wind-powered ride. This is a bit of a different kind of activity and you’re guaranteed to treasure its memory for years.
• Kayak and snorkel tour. This is perfect if you’d like to go for a swim but would rather avoid the crowed urban beaches of Barcelona. On this tour, you’ll discover hidden caves and beautiful marine reserves while cooling down in the clear waters of the Mediterranean.
• Montserrat Abbey + hike. This famous abbey was founded way back in the 11th century in the highest point of the Catalan lowlands. The abbey is famous for its black madonna.

I hope this 3 day Barcelona itinerary will help you have a wonderful time in one of the world’s most beloved cities. If you’d like to see more of Spain, I’ve also written a detailed itinerary on what to do in Madrid in 3 days as well as a guide to the best things to do in Valencia . For even more inspiration, check out the best cities to visit in Spain .

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2 Days in Barcelona Itinerary: What Not to Miss!

By: Author Hannah Cooper

Posted on Last updated: May 28, 2024

How should you spend two days in Barcelona?

The capital of Catalonia is a hotbed for the arts, tapas, and nightlife – plus, it has sandy beaches right next to the historical center. Crafting the perfect 2 days in Barcelona itinerary should be a pick and mix of everything.

There’s never a bad time to visit Barcelona although the time of year you visit will help shape the itinerary.

Spring and fall are ideal for outdoorsy activities and dipping into museums and churches. Winters are mild albeit rainy while summers call for lazy days at the beach – or long walks along the promenade if you’re not one for sitting.

This 2 days in Barcelona itinerary focuses on food, architecture, and epic outdoor spots.

Is two days in Barcelona, Spain, enough?

Two full days is the bare minimum for scratching the surface of Barcelona. This allows enough time to see the main spots.

With 3 days in Barcelona , you can dig a little deeper and see outlying neighborhoods.

A longer stay would let you plan a couple of day trips from Barcelona to see the Costa Brava.

Day One of this 2 Days in Barcelona Itinerary

Getting around Barcelona is made easy with the efficient metro and bus network. There are various Barcelona Uber equivalents for other journeys.

This 2 days in Barcelona itinerary mainly relies on your own two feet for exploring. Make sure you have practical footwear at the top of your Spain packing list .

Here’s how to see the best of Barcelona in 2 days.

The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is packed with history and stunning architecture. Don’t miss out on seeing the Barcelona Cathedral.

Explore the Gothic Quarter

Rise and shine and start your two days in Barcelona getting lost in the labyrinthine Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). This is the most central area and is teeming with pretty plazas, medieval buildings, and narrow streets. It’s where you’ll find a plethora of free things to do in Barcelona .

You can pass under the ornamental bridge, El Pont del Bisbe, and survey the remains of the Roman walls for free. There are also a couple of notable museums, such as the Barcelona History Museum and the Cathedral of Barcelona with its museum.

The Gothic Quarter is where to stay in Barcelona for a short trip. It makes sense to stay as close by as possible as from here you can walk to restaurants, sights, and metro stations.

Barri Gòtic spills over into the villagesque El Born which is awesome at night. You might want to visit the Picasso Museum during the day but return to this enclave in the evening for tapas, wine, and live music.

It’s fun to wander the Gothic Quarter at leisure and soak up the atmosphere as Barcelona springs to life. If you prefer, you could sign up for a guided tour and learn about the history from a local guide.

This Gothic Quarter walking tour leaves at 9.30am and lasts for three hours.

Explore the street art around Barcelona as you wander to the next destination on your 2 day Barcelona itinerary!

See street art in El Raval

El Raval sits on the western side of La Rambla. This funky barrio has a youthful vibe and is a nucleus for street murals, sculpture, and contemporary galleries. Focus on the area around the Three Chimneys and Rambla del Raval if you’re into open-air art.

If you’re keen on Gaudí, you might want to visit Güell Palace. This mansion is one of his earliest assignments, dating to 1886. It was the home of Güell i López and his family. Tickets are available online and cost €12 ($13/£10).

Explore La Boqueria Market (+ optional food tour)

Hungry? Make a pit stop at La Boqueria Market (Mercado de la Boqueria) on La Rambla. This gigantic covered market is a functioning market and a major tourist attraction rolled into one.

Barcelonians come here to stock up on fresh produce, seafood, meat, cheeses, baked goods, and pantry items. Tourists come for that too (handy if you’re staying in an apartment or hostel with a kitchen) but also the vibe and food stalls.

La Boqueria is open Monday to Saturday from 8am until around 8.30pm. It gets busy at lunchtime – around 1/2pm – so you’ll want to arrive just before the rush.

Several Barcelona food tours include a wander around the market. You might consider slotting one of these into your 2 days in Barcelona itinerary.

In a hurry? This street food and sightseeing tour focuses on the market in particular and includes tastings.

The markets around Barcelona are the perfect place to head to build your own picnic. This is a more budget friendly lunch option while still enjoying so many amazing Spanish flavors.

Wander down La Rambla and Rambla de Mar

You’ve already encountered La Rambla over the first morning of your Barcelona 2 day itinerary. This pedestrianized street bisects the Gothic Quarter and El Ravel and is the setting for Boqueria Market.

In terms of admiring the buildings and getting some photos, you’ll want to visit as early as possible. However, the atmosphere picks up around lunch time as more people are out and about. It’s also a better time for seeing street performers and picking up kooky souvenirs from Barcelona .

Follow La Rambla all the way down to its terminus at the Columbus Monument and you can hop over to Rambla de Mar. This late 20th century walkway passes over the sea and brings you to the port area.

It’s a great place to walk off lunch and you have the option to visit the Museum of the History of Catalonia or Barcelona Aquarium down here.

Ciutadella Park is such a wonderful place to explore on your 2 days in Barcelona itinerary. Especially on a sunny day.

Walk around Ciutadella Park

Ciutadella Park (Parc de la Ciutadella) is a picturesque green space near the port and beaches. It’s free to wander the gardens and see the spectacular fountain cascading over the lake.

The Cascada Monumental was partially inspired by the Trevi Fountain in Rome and features ancient deities and mythological beings. Gaudí was involved in engineering the hydraulics although Josep Fontserè was in charge of the design.

Relax at the beaches of Barcelona

Barcelona’s closest beaches are located in the La Barceloneta neighborhood. This seaside barrio is easily accessible from the Gothic Quarter.

Platja/Playa de la Barceloneta, Platja/Playa de Sant Sebastià, and Platja/Playa del Somorrostro are the main ones. On a hot day, it’s lovely to unroll a towel and spend a few hours sunbathing and swimming. La Barceloneta has good amenities and dining spots too, otherwise you can bring snacks for a picnic.

The palm tree-lined Passeig Marítim connects La Barceloneta with the Olympic Port. Walking along this promenade is an alternative for the cooler seasons or if you’re not much of a beach bum.

La Barceloneta a great spot to visit at the end of the day. However, you have the option to bump this leg of your two days in Barcelona to day two.

Day Two of this 2 day Barcelona Itinerary

The second morning of your Barcelona 2 day itinerary focuses on the legacy of Antoni Gaudí. The Catalan architect left his mark on the city with architectural marvels scattered around the central neighborhoods

If you’re not too fussed about following the Gaudí trail, you might want to check out Montjuïc Hill as an alternative or spend time at the beach.

If it’s rainy or cold, circle back to some of the museums mentioned previously.

Whether you are spending one day or one week in Barcelona, you absolutely cannot miss seeing the Sagrada Familia up close. It is one of those structures around the world that simply leaves you in awe.

Ogle Gaudí’s architecture at La Sagrada Família

The mammoth La Sagrada Família is one of the most emblematic landmarks in Barcelona. Work on Gaudí’s masterpiece commenced in 1882 and rumor has it that the church will finally be completed in 2026 .

La Sagrada Família is located in Eixample. It’s bounded by two beautiful plazas, the Plaça de Gaudí and the ​​Plaça de la Sagrada Família, where you can admire the exterior and take photos.

Seeing the building may well suffice but there’s always the option to go inside. There really is no other church in Europe quite like La Sagrada Família.

General admission and an audio guide start at €26 ($28/£22) per person. Adding the towers or a tour guide service ups the price.

Advance tickets are mandatory; these may be purchased via the official website or app . You can also pre-purchase official tickets through Get Your Guide .

We’d recommend choosing a small group or private tour if you fancy enlisting a human guide.

It’s beneficial to visit as early in the day as possible, especially during the peak summer months.

See Casa Batlló, Casa Milá, and Casa Vicens

Now, if you’re a die-hard Gaudí fan (or just a casual admirer) you can spend some time visiting other buildings in Barcelona.

There are three urban “casas” relatively nearby: Casa Batlló, Casa Milá, and Casa Vicens. If you visit the buildings in this order on foot, you’re looking at a little over an hour of walking.

Each one requires a visit duration of around an hour.

Walking to these buildings means you’ll also get to see more of the Eixample and Gràcia. While the following route is built around Gaudí, you can stop off wherever you spot another interesting sight (or something you want to eat). There are lots of hole-in-the-wall sandwich joints and friendly taverns in these neighborhoods.

Otherwise, you can just visit one or two of them – this 2 days in Barcelona itinerary is flexible.

Casa Batllo is one of the most famous buildings in Barcelona and with only two days in Barcelona should be at the top of the list of Gaudi houses to go inside of.

Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló (House of Barcelona) is a private townhome turned museum topped with a dragon. It’s situated on the stunning boulevard, Passeig de Gràcia next to the equally stunning Casa Amatller where you can grab a coffee.

Gaudí was tasked with breathing new life into Casa Batlló in 1904 and it’s fair to say he excelled.

As with La Sagrada Família, it’s your call whether you admire the architecture from the pavement or venture inside. Admission includes a visit to the roof.

The interiors are whimsical with such installations as the Gaudí Cube and the Gaudí Dome. There are also exhibitions showing how the house would have appeared in the 20th century.

General admission costs €35 ($38/£30) and it’s best to buy tickets online . The self-guided tour lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes and comes with an audio guide.

You could also visit in the evening or catch a concert here. Of the three Gaudí buildings, consider prioritizing Casa Batlló when seeing Barcelona in 2 days.

Casa Milá/La Pedrera

Casa Milá is a 10-minute walk along Passeig de Gràcia from Casa Batlló.

This Modernista building was the home of the Milà family who occupied one floor and rented out the other units. It’s also known as La Pedrera due to its quarry-like appearance. The interiors were designed to be affluent yet unconventional.

Casa Milá is open for public visits and also hosts ad hoc art exhibitions and music concerts. The Whale Attic is a highlight; this space is designed to feel like walking through a whale and is devoted to the genius of Gaudí.

There are also two incredible courtyards inspired by the natural world. The Warrior Rooftop is the climax of your visit where chimneys represent warriors and the four elements.

Admission tickets to La Pedrera starts at €28 ($30/£24) with the option to upgrade to a tour guide or add a glass of bubbles.

Casa Vicens is a unique building and one of the lesser visited Gaudi sites which is ideal if you are short on time and want don’t want to wait in line.

Casa Vicens

Passeig de Gràcia beomes Carrer Gran de Gràcia and this is where you’ll find Casa Vicens. It’s a 20-minute walk from Casa Milá.

This is one of the best places in Barcelona for seeing how Gaudí sought inspiration from Moorish architecture. He was commissioned to work on this summer house in 1883

Admission costs €18 ($19.50/£15) and audio guide tickets are available on the Casa Vicens website .

Watch sunset at Park Güell

Regardless of whether you visit the Gaudí buildings, Park Güell is a must-see for any 2 days in Barcelona itinerary.

This hilltop park in the Gràcia neighborhood is awash with ornamental buildings designed by Gaudí. However, the scenery and viewpoints make it appealing to all types of travelers. It’s incredible at sunset but you can visit it at any time of day.

Admission to Park Güell is €10 ($11/£8.50). Timed tickets are sold on the official website ; you have to enter within 30 minutes of the specified time. You can also pay for a guided tour.

These tickets are limited and tend to sell out a couple of days in advance. It’s wise to book at least a week in advance as this means you’ll have more choice of time slots.

Lesseps, served by L3, is the closest metro station.

Park Güell is a 25-minute walk from Casa Vicens.

Casa Milá is also worth adding to your list of things to do with 2 days in Barcelona, it is very close to Batllo so you can see both up close on the same city stroll.

Enjoy rooftop cocktails

There’s no better way to round out two days in Barcelona than by sipping a cocktail with a view!

Barcelona’s best rooftop bars are a bit of a splurge but between the elegant setting and the aerial views, they’re worth it. Many of these are attached to hotels in case you’re seeking inspiration for where to stay in Barcelona.

Day Trips From Barcelona

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Barcelona's Best Museums

Top Beaches in Barcelona

Mount Tibidabo Guide

Sagrada Familia Guide

Food to Try in Barcelona

Barcelona's Top Restaurants

Best Bars in Barcelona

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Airports Near Barcelona

Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation Guide

Getting Around Barcelona: Guide to Public Transportation

How to use the metro, buses, commuter trains, and more

TripSavvy /  Emily Mendoza  

As Spain's second-largest city after Madrid , Barcelona teems with no shortage of things to see and do. Getting from one place to the other in a city this size can seem challenging to first-time visitors. Throw in the unfamiliar Catalan place names, and things are seemingly complicated even further.

But although it seems complicated at first, Barcelona's public transportation system is a cheap, easy and efficient way to get around town. It's a much better option than renting a car, and although the city is quite walkable, sometimes catching the metro or a bus can save you valuable time.

How to Ride the Barcelona Metro

Here in Barcelona, the most popular way to get around town is via metro .

Operated by TMB (Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona), locals tend to prefer the metro for its easy-to-use system, low fares, and frequency of trains.

Metro stations are usually indicated by red and white signs bearing an M. Once inside the station, purchase a ticket from the electronic machines (instructions are available in Catalan, Spanish, English and French), and use it to pass through the turnstiles.

Barcelona Metro Fast Facts :

• Cost : €2.40 for a single ticket. €11.35 for a 10-journey pass, known as a T-Casual card (allows rides on all public transportation in Barcelona)
• How to pay : Cash or card at the ticketing machines
• Hours of operation : Monday–Sunday 5 a.m.–midnight
• Transfer information : At the transfer station, follow the signs indicating where to board the train for your final destination. Once you arrive, exit the station as normal.
• Accessibility : As of October 2020, only 14 of Barcelona's 159 metro stations have not yet been adapted for users of reduced mobility. Steps are being taken to make all stations accessible as soon as possible.

Start planning your journey using the Barcelona metro system's online route planner .

Riding the TMB Bus

Buses in Barcelona are another easy way of getting around town, with the added bonus of getting to see the city pass by as you ride. TMB, the same company that runs the Metro, also operates the bus system.

Bus stops in Barcelona are either shelters or poles displaying the numbers of the bus lines that stop there. As your bus approaches, wave to the driver to indicate that you'd like to board.

Once on the bus, be sure to validate your travel pass (such as the T-Casual card) if you have one; if not, you can buy a ticket from the driver for €2.20. The largest bill accepted is 10 euros.

When your stop is approaching, press the red button to signal the driver. Exit the bus through the rear doors.

Check the TMB website for full information about how to take the bus, including operating hours .

The Rodalies Commuter Rail

Rodalies is the suburban train network throughout Catalonia. Its stations are identified by a white R against an orange background. This is an especially great transport option for taking day trips from Barcelona .

Information about the trains, including schedules and routes, is available on the Rodalies website .

Barcelona's Tram System

The tram network in Barcelona is not very extensive at this point, but it's a great way to explore beyond the city center. There are six tram lines and nearly 30 kilometers of track. Visit the Barcelona tram website to learn more.

Getting To and From El Prat Airport

• Metro : The L9 Sud line stops at both terminals. Tickets cost €4.60.
• Aerobús : Connects both terminals with Plaça Catalunya. Tickets cost €5.90.
• Train : The L2 train currently only stops at Terminal 2, though plans are in place to add a stop at Terminal 1 as well. It's accessible in Barcelona proper at the Passeig de Gràcia, Sants, and França stations. Pricing information can be found on the Rodalies website .

Taxis in Barcelona

Official Barcelona taxis are painted black with yellow doors. They can be found at taxi ranks all over town, or you can call one at +34 933 033 033.

Renting a Car

While renting a vehicle can be a great way to explore further-afield parts of Catalonia, it's not really an ideal way to get around Barcelona. The sheer number of people and vehicles in the city can make it difficult to get around, other drivers seemingly treat traffic laws as mere guidelines, and finding a decent, centrally located parking spot (that's not in an expensive garage) is next to impossible. Our advice: save yourself the money and frustration.

Bike Sharing in Barcelona

Bicing , Barcelona's bike-sharing program, has become a popular method of public transportation in the Catalan capital.

With more than 6,000 mechanical bikes and 800 electric bikes available to rent, it's a quick and efficient way to get around town. It's also easily integrated with other modes of public transportation in Barcelona, with docking stations conveniently located near metro stations and bus stops.

Tips for Getting Around Barcelona

• Barcelona is a generally safe city, but petty crime such as pickpocketing is common on public transportation. Watch your belongings and be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially on crowded metros and buses.
• Always keep small bills and coins on you in order to pay for public transportation. Oftentimes drivers won't be able to give change for large bills, and ticketing machines won't accept them, either.
• Walking can be an extremely rewarding and enjoyable way to see the city. Barcelona is incredibly pedestrian-friendly, and most of its major sights are concentrated into one area that's easy to navigate on foot.
• As in any major city, public transportation in Barcelona can get very crowded during both the morning and evening rush hours. Plan accordingly or consider an alternative method if you're on a tight schedule.
• If you're visiting in the summer, you'll likely want to check out one of the famous Barcelona beaches . But don't limit yourself to crowded Barceloneta just because it's close to the city center. Instead, hop on public transportation and head further afield—you'll likely have a much more pleasant experience, and find yourself surrounded by locals rather than tourists.

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50+ Helpful Barcelona Travel Tips & Tricks: Must-Knows Before You Visit Barcelona!

Last Updated: June 23, 2021

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Despite being one of the most visited destinations in the world, I still find it’s often the case that articles featuring Barcelona travel tips omit a crucial detail about this spectacular city…

That it is hilariously easy to screw up here.

I’m talking tourist traps left and right, pickpockets front and back, and so many overwhelming activity options that you’ll wish you could just chug vermouth and nap forever.

But here’s the thing: Barcelona (when done properly) can truly be a life-changing, or at least waistline-changing, experience.

So, if you want to ensure that you visit Barcelona properly, let me help.

Below you’ll find my top Barcelona travel tips, meticulously collected over trial and error from my four visits.

… Enjoy!

Save these Barcelona travel tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

Barcelona Travel Planning Tips

Let’s start with some planning-related Barcelona tips to help you with flights, booking hotels in Barcelona, choosing dates, the best times to visit Barcelona, etc.

Learn the tricks for getting cheap flights TO Barcelona

If you haven’t booked your flights to Barcelona yet, be sure to check out my guide on  how to get the cheapest flights to Europe . I promise it’ll save you hundreds of dollars on your flight!

Avoid visiting Barcelona in peak season

If your Barcelona visit is planned for July or August, well… *hands you oxygen mask and a bag for tears*

Just kidding! Kinda.

The truth is, Barcelona is probably one of the most visited cities in Europe, and while I’ve never visited in peak-peak season, I’ve seen enough human mobs during my January and May visits to imagine just how frightening it is with massive crowds, sweltering heat and every unpleasant thing about travel squished together in one photogenic  moderniste package.

I would strongly advise if you hate crowds as much as I do to visit in the off-season (January – March).

I recently went in January and was greeted with pleasant temperatures, blue skies,  sunshine, and of course, a fraction of the crowds one might encounter in July or August.

Still prepare for crowds in the off-season

However, just to cover my butt and confusingly backtrack, I should say that just because Barcelona is quieter in the off-season, doesn’t mean it’s a magical ghost town either.

In fact, I still found main spots like La Boqueria, Las Ramblas and Placa Catalunya to be teeming with tourists in January…

BUT there were significantly less crowds at most paid attractions, and ticket availability was generous even on the day-of, which can’t be said for the peak season, when it’s advised you book every activity in advance.

So, if you fancy a bit more spontaneity during your Barcelona visit, be sure to time your Barcelona trip for the off-season.

Book your hotel well in advance

Barcelona is one of the busiest tourist cities in the world, which means the best hotels (and most affordable ones) book up quickly, especially during peak season.

So, book early!

I know that committing to a hotel early can feel scary, but if you use  Booking.com , you can find hundreds of hotels that offer free reservations and free cancellations up until a certain point.

This means you can get some peace of mind without putting down any deposits or committing to a hard date until much later.

Here are some of the places I’ve stayed in Barcelona and can recommend:

• Budget: This fun hostel
• Mid-range: This clean and central hotel
• Unique: This cool yet affordable hotel or this one

Know the difference between the European hotel star system vs North America

If you’re currently looking for accommodation in Barcelona: here’s another tip – look at reviews rather than star rating alone.

In North America, the star rating system for hotels usually means 5* = opulent luxury and 1* = you may lose your kidneys.

This is not the case in Europe. With European hotels, instead of stars matching quality on a scale of 1-5, the stars actually correspond to a checklist of amenities/requirements.

SO, you can find some wonderful 2* properties that are just smaller and lacking amenities like a spa or pool, while also finding mediocre 4 or 5* properties that have earned that rating simply due to amenities like fitness centers and valets.

Learn more about the criteria for star ratings here.

Make sure you have travel insurance

As you’ve probably heard countless times, travel insurance is an important must for every trip… but this is especially true in touristy cities like Barcelona, where there are pickpockets everywhere.

Trust me, the peace of mind you get with insurance is worth the cost, especially for dreamy bucket list destinations like this!

Click here to check rates with WorldNomads.

Download helpful apps before you go

There are plenty of apps you can download that will make your time in Barcelona 100x easier.

I’ve previously written a full list of the  best travel apps for Europe  so be sure to check that out, but here are some especially good options for Barcelona:

• Google Translate:  A must for translating signs/menus on the go. Download Spanish to be used offline if you can
• The Fork:  Great for making restaurant reservations

Consider adding other Catalonian destinations to your itinerary

Barcelona is an amazing city, but I can also highly recommend Tarragona , Girona, and Montserrat.

If you have extra time during your trip, planning at least a day trip to one of these spots is a must!

Barcelona Metro Tips & General Tricks For Transport/Getting Around

Getting around Barcelona can be really daunting for a first-time visitor, so here are all my best Barcelona tips related to getting around:

Buy a T-10 Ticket for public transportation

While public transportation in Barcelona isn’t too expensive compared to other major European cities, buying single tickets over and over is not only a hassle, it can add up quickly.

Instead of constantly getting single tickets then, the best ticket you can get as a tourist in my opinion is a T-10 ticket which gets you ten trips for only 10.20.

Doing some not-so-complicated math, this evens out to about 1 euro per trip which is half the price of a single ticket, with the happy bonus that you don’t need to constantly buy new tickets every time.

If you’re looking for the best value transport ticket in Barcelona, this is it!

Avoid taxis if you can in Barcelona

On a similar note, I would avoid taking too many taxis. This is because Barcelona is a delightfully walkable city marred with hilariously bad traffic.

Given that the city’s public transportation system is so clean, safe and cheap, I wouldn’t advise trying to take a taxi anywhere. Instead, just use public transport, or your good old fashioned legs.

Use the Aerobus Express to get to/from the airport

If you are travelling light (e.g. you can easily carry your bags), then the most affordable and convenient way to get to/from the airport in Barcelona is by far the Aerobus Express. You can easily book/compare options on Omio or through their official site.

This option costs only 5.90 each way, and is quick and convenient. This is the option I pick every time I go to Barcelona.

Book an airport transfer for minimal stress

That said, if you are travelling with a lot of bags, a big group, or as a family, then booking an airport transfer might be wise.

For the least stressful option, consider booking a  Welcome Pickups transfer,  which is a set price, includes an English speaking driver who monitors your flight arrival time, and offers free cancellations up until 24 hours before.

This saves you the hassle of trying to get a taxi/navigate the language barriers to do so… while of course helping you avoid getting scammed too!

Easily rent a bike

While you can of course book a bike tour in Barcelona like  this one,  there’s a super simple way to rent a bike in Barcelona whenever you need one – through an app called  Donkey Republic, which allows bike-sharing across the city.

You simply pick up a bike when you see one, use it, then drop it off at one of many docking points around the city.

Click here for a guide on how to use it.

Easily rent a scooter

For a transport option that’s even more fun, Barcelona also has many companies that offer e-scooter rentals that are activated through an app.

Here is a guide on how to use them.

Barcelona Tips For Attractions

Odds are, if you’re visiting Barcelona, sightseeing til you drop s part of the plan. So, here are some of my best Barcelona travel tips related to sightseeing, attractions and itinerary planning.

Book Barcelona attractions in advance

If it has always been your dream since birth to drool over the Sagrada Familia, explore the whimsical Pedrera, or skip and twirl your way through Parc Guell, book it.

Book it now. Build yourself a time machine and book it last week. I’m not joking.

The last thing you want during your Barcelona trip (besides a sugary sangria hangover) is to wait too long for tickets then realize that there are none left, or worse yet, rot in a line-up for 1.4 million years just to catch a glimpse your Gaudi of choice.

When in Barcelona, time is money, so be smart and get your tickets well in advance. Here are some helpful links where you can get skip the line tickets:

• Sagrada Familia: Get fast-track tickets here
• Camp Nou Experience: Get fast-track tickets here
• La Pedrera: Get skip-the-line tickets here
• Palau de la Música: Get a self-guided tour ticket here
• Casa Vicens: Get skip-the-line-tickets here

Take advantage of Barcelona’s many combo cards and tourist passes

One of the best things about visiting Barcelona is the amount of amazing attractions and touristic offerings that are around to dazzle and impress.

That said, hopping from attraction to attraction does add up quickly in Barcelona, which means your future will involve plenty of emptying your wallet while crying.

So here’s another money-saving Barcelona tip for you: buy a combo card or tourist pass which gives you entry to multiple attractions for a single price!

Here are some Barcelona sightseeing passes you might be interested in :

• Articket: entry to six of Barcelona’s top art museums for only €30; valid for 3 months
• Barcelona iVenture card: allows you bundle 3 or 5 of Barcelona’s top attractions for steep savings (or there’s an unlimited option too!)
• Barcelona Express Card: 2 days of unlimited public transport for €20 plus a lot of discounts/savings on Barcelona’s top attractions
• Barcelona Pass Modernista: 7 days’ skip-the-line access to 15 of the most famous Moderniste works in Barcelona for steep savings

Avoid overstuffing your itinerary

Barcelona is one of those cities where you’ll inevitably run around like a headless chicken, attempting to fit an entire guidebook’s worth of fun into a whopping 48 hours.

And while that might sound like a good idea at first, it’s a delicious recipe for almost dying.

Trust me, Barcelona is a city with attractions for days. I mean, I tried to summarize the highlights of things to do in Barcelona and STILL ended up with a (mildly terrifying) 79 activities.

So, remember: people can live in Barcelona for an entire lifetime and still not discover everything that the city has to offer, so as a tourist, don’t expect that you’ll be able to cover everything in a few days.

Rather than break your legs trying to fit every single must-see, select a few that are non-negotiable for you, and instead pencil in extra time to relax and soak in all the wonderful vibes that Barcelona has to offer.

Trust me, that’s when you fall slowly but surely in love.

Wake up EARLY

The morning hours are the best time to explore Barcelona. Yes, I’m talking sunrise-early if you really want to make the most of the city’s “empty hours”.

Barcelona is hands down one of the busiest cities in the world when it comes to tourism, and waking up early is pretty much the only way to experience it without tons of crowds.

My pro Barcelona tip for avoiding crowds? Pick the #1 attraction you’re most excited for, and plan to see it as soon as it opens, with some sunrise explorations beforehand.

Enjoy ALL the free Barcelona viewpoints

Barcelona is a stunning city with plenty of incredible vantage points… many of which are free!

Here are some you should make sure you don’t miss.

The Bunkers del Carmel: To me, the best view in the city. A bit of work to reach but absolutely magical at sunset. Read my guide on how to visit the Bunkers del Carmel in Barcelona for more.

Las Arenas de Barcelona: A bullring-turned-shopping mall that is now home to a free 360 degree viewing platform overlooking Plaça d’Espanya. Access is free via escalator, while the elevator is 1 euro.

El Corte Inglés: A popular Barcelona shopping center, with an epic view over Plaça de Catalunya from its top floor.

Tibidabo: The highest viewpoint in Barcelona, with the bonus of having an amusement park on site!

Seek out beaches beyond Barceloneta

Barcelona is known as a beach destination, and while the city has plenty of beaches to visit, most tourists flock to crowded Barceloneta and inevitably leave feeling disappointed.

So, if you’re craving some fun in the sun, look beyond Barceloneta and  click here for a great guide to the different beaches around the city.

Do NOT scour the streets of Barcelona for bullfights and flamenco

Looking around Barcelona for bullfights and flamenco is like pillaging Seattle in search of the best New York Style pizza… you could do it, but it’s definitely not the best use of your time.

As mentioned above, Catalonia is rather different from the rest of Spain, and most attempts to fulfill Spanish stereotypes are created to indulge tourist fantasy more than anything else.

For instance, while you may be able to find flamenco performances in Barcelona, this is conventionally more an ‘Andalucia’ thing, and isn’t a Catalan tradition at all.

And as for bullfighting, you should know that bull fights have been outlawed entirely in Catalonia. SO, instead of looking for flamenco and the like, try seeking out more Catalonian traditions instead, like attending a local street festival.

Make time to visit other Barcelona neighbourhoods

Last but not least, I implore you to avoid the key mistake of missing Barcelona’s many diverse neighbourhoods!

After all, Barcelona is more than a tourist hotspot, it’s home to 1.6 million locals who enjoy the city just as much as visitors do, so one of the best things you can do is try to see a more local side to the city, and uncover your own hidden gems along the way.

If you’d like a nudge in the right direction, these are two great neighbourhoods I love:

El Born (AKA La Ribera): Located a stone’s throw from the beach, I love El Born because it is packed with amazing cafes and restaurants, as well as interesting sights like The Santa Maria Basilica and the El Born Cultural Centre. My top tip? Grab yourself a mascarpone croissant from Pastisseria Hofmann and marvel at how you’ve lived this long without it.

Gracia:  Largely hailed as the most authentically Catalonian piece of Barcelona left thanks to a huge population of native Catalonians, Gracia is Barcelona’s hipster hood, teeming with independent boutiques and (organic) grocery stores. You’ll also find plenty of dreamy attractions here including top sights like Park Güell and Casa Vincens.

Safety Tips For Barcelona

Like in many busy European cities, petty crime can be an issue in Barcelona, from pickpocketing scams to fake police officers. Here are some tips for staying safe in Barcelona.

Learn how to avoid pickpockets in Barcelona

Of all the complaints and tourist mistakes I’ve heard about Barcelona, getting duped by pickpockets and scammers is like the ultimate  Barcelona rite of passage.

Make no mistake, pickpockets in Barcelona are PROFESSIONALS that often work in teams all around the city, certainly in tourist hotspots like Las Ramblas and busy hubs like Metro stations.

I’ve already written a full guide on how to avoid pickpockets in Europe , but below are two basic rules of thumb to follow to avoid robbery when you visit Barcelona…

Do NOT bring valuables to the beach

One very important Barcelona tip all visitors should remember is to NEVER bring your valuables with you to the beach, because petty thieves in Barcelona loooove the beach.

When possible, take turns with your travel companions watching belongings, or maybe invest in a beach safe or a waterproof case to bring with you swimming.

Never have your valuables out in the open

The last thing you want is to make yourself into a shiny walking target.

When in Barcelona, remember to not walk around with your phone in your hand, and definitely don’t leave your phone somewhere snatchable, like on a table while dining out, in your pocket on public transport, etc.

Know Barcelona’s emergency numbers

In North America, 911 is the go-to when you have any kind of emergency.

If you face an emergency in Barcelona, there’s a few options for numbers you can call:

Police, ambulance, fire brigade : 112 Police : 091 Local Police : 092 Fire brigade : 080 Accident / Ambulance : 061

English-speaking police officers: +34 932 903 000 (police headquarters), Via Laietana 43

Have a plan in case of a worst case scenario

This isn’t just a good Barcelona travel tip, but a good tip for travelling anywhere – make a plan for the worst case scenario.

Imagine your bags get stolen in Barcelona with your passports and all your cash/cards – what would be your backup plan? What would you do if you lost your phone?

Having a plan in place can minimize stress in the event that anything does happen, and having that peace of mind is very important for any vacation!

Food And Drink Tips For Barcelona

Eating and drinking well is a quintessential part of any Barcelona trip. Here are some Barcelona travel tips related to food and drink!

Avoid tourist trap restaurants (especially on Las Ramblas)

Barcelona is an incredible city with amazing food culture – both traditional and international.

That’s why one of the saddest mistakes you can make in Barcelona is getting caught at a tourist trap restaurant and even more depressingly, paying extortionate amounts for a terrible meal.

The area where this often happens is Barcelona’s (in)famous main drag: Las Ramblas.

Over the years, it has become a commonly accepted rule of thumb that those terrace restaurants along Las Ramblas do nothing but heat up frozen paella.

So, if you’re trying to avoid these establishments, a good sign of imminent tourist trappage = aggressive stock photos, or English words being thrown around in large blocky letters.

Instead of munching on mediocre tourist trap food, I would recommend booking a food tour or getting local tips and searching up restaurant reviews online before you go.

Expect to eat dinner later

If you’re accustomed to eating dinner before 9pm, then know that you’ll probably have to adjust slightly to adapt to typical Barcelona dinner times, which usually begin around 8:30pm or often later. 

Of course, you will still be able to find restaurants open earlier than that, but most locals won’t be eating much earlier than 8:30pm.

Try the “Menu del día”

Many restaurants in Barcelona will offer a “Menu del día” or “Combo of the Day” at lunch time which is typically a set menu that includes your starter, main course, dessert and drink for one low price.

This is a great way to sample local cuisine at a more affordable price, and of course get a great meal for less.

Shop at local markets

Barcelona’s food markets are legendary, and are great places to grab tasty and fresh local fare for an affordable price.

La Boqueria is of course world-famous, but I prefer the Mercato Santa Catarina for a quieter experience.

Consider a food tour

For foodies looking to get a great overview of Catalan cuisine, I can highly recommend doing a food tour while you’re in Barcelona.

I personally did a food tour with Devour Barcelona and had an amazing time.

Not only do you get to sample tons of great local cuisine, you also get a lot of insider local knowledge and context around the region’s most famous foods… and yes, there’s much more to the food scene here than paella (which is actually from Valencia).

Take a cooking class

The only thing better than sampling local cuisine is learning how to make it yourself! How’s that for a delicious souvenir?

Hands down, if you love food, one of the best things to do in Barcelona is taking a cooking class.

Here are some options:

• This market tour + paella cooking experience
• This grandma’s cooking class

Get a croissant from Pastisseria Hofmann

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: this is one of my top Barcelona tips as far as food is concerned…

GO TO PASTISSERIA HOFMANN. Just do it.

The mascarpone croissant from here is still probably the best croissant I’ve ever had in my life – yes, even better than the dozens I’ve eaten in Paris. Make sure you try one – they’re award winning for a reason!

Don’t drink the weird mojitos they sell at Barceloneta Beach

Specifically, I’m referring to the ones being sold by random guys who approach you on the beach. They are painfully gross and watered down. Avoid at all costs!

Barcelona Etiquette & Culture Tips

Wondering how not to be rude in Barcelona? Here are some important must-knows related to Barcelona etiquette to keep in mind before you visit.

Learn some basic Spanish (or Catalan) in advance

Let’s face it: we English speaking tourists usually have it pretty easy when we travel. After all, most of the time, English is widely spoken and understood, so we get to smugly glide on by without worrying about being heard or understood.

Unfortunately, things are a little different in Barcelona.

While you can get by with English, a basic command of Spanish or Catalan is tremendously helpful (and more polite!), especially when you’re at smaller establishments like little cafes, restaurants or supermarkets.

I found myself on numerous occasions relying on my broken Spanish to get by, so my tip is this: at the very least, know your numbers and practice your best pointing 😉

Remember that Barcelona is in Catalonia

While Barcelona is indeed a city in Spain, many visitors forget that it belongs to the state of Catalonia, which is culturally unique from many other parts of Spain, and therefore confusingly different from the Spanish stereotypes and cliches you may have in your head.

In fact, many Catalonians will not refer to themselves as Spanish, and there’s even a pretty heavy separatist movement as well, but that’s another story for another time.

So, don’t forget that Barcelona is in Catalonia, and be ready for plenty of cultural surprises that defy conventional Spanish stereotypes.

Don’t overtip

North Americans like me might feel pressured by habit to tip the same amount that’s expected at home,… but here’s some nice news for your wallet: tipping isn’t really expected in Barcelona.

In fact, even 5% is considered generous for exceptional service. While I’m sure most of the time, tips are appreciated, most locals don’t at all, so there isn’t the expectation that you need to.

Packing Tips For Barcelona

What should you wear in Barcelona? And what shouldn’t you wear? What important things should you definitely pack for your Barcelona trip? Here are my best Barcelona travel tips related to packing.

Bring comfy shoes

Barcelona is a stunning city made for walking, with droolworthy landmarks and sights around every corner.

And so, while you might be tempted to pack the cutest shoes in your wardrobe for your Barcelona trip, I’d suggest packing only practical shoes that you can walk a whole day in. Your feet will thank you later.

Bring a theft-proof bag

Unfortunately, pickpocketing and petty theft is common in Barcelona, particularly with tourists as easy targets.

For peace of mind, you should definitely look into buying theft proof bags  like this one , which is slash-proof and also has an abundance of hidden pockets to keep your belongings safe.

Bring bags with hidden pockets or a money belt

If you don’t want to buy an entirely new bag for your trip, that’s understandable, but you should still take a few measures to “theft-proof” your own bags.

A few ideas would be to pick only bags that have an additional layer of security (e.g. a zippered compartment inside the bag, or in the back where it’s inaccessible to grabby hands), or to simply wear a  money belt  or hidden passport scarf  like this one.

Make sure you have a universal adapter

Power sockets in Barcelona have two round holes and if you’re visiting from overseas, odds are you’ll need an adapter for your plugs to fit.

I’d strongly recommend buying a universal adapter  like this one  if you don’t have one already.

It’s cheap, can be re-used for every trip, and covers you in all situations. Definitely some of the best money I’ve ever spent!

DIY your own travel sized toiletries

This is a very basic  packing tip  I always recommend, but it’s very easy these days to buy small reusable bottles that you can fill with your own toiletries of choice.

This allows you to bring your favourite products with you, and saves needless one-use toiletries from ending up in the landfill.

Need help picking the right one?  Read my guide to  reusable toiletry bottles  for more info.

Have a re-usable bag handy

You can’t go wrong with a tote bag or two, and I always like to keep one in each purse when I travel.

You never know when you’ll need an extra bag, whether to haul goodies back from La Boqueria or simply carrying whatever souvenirs you’ve gotten that day, so remember to pack some just in case!

Bring protective wraps

If you’re travelling with an expensive camera, or anything else fragile, I highly recommend  these amazing protective wraps.

I bought mine a few years ago and use them every trip. They’re padded velcro wraps that you can use to protect…. pretty much anything! So handy and they don’t take up too much space.

Alternatively, you can also look into product-specific protectors, like  these awesome wine protectors  to ensure your precious cargo doesn’t break in transit.

Final Barcelona Travel Tips

Okay, last but not least, here are some miscellaneous Barcelona trip tips that will help ensue your trip to Barcelona is as magical as you always dreamed!

Know how to find free WiFi

WiFi for tourists is a big deal – I get it! Luckily, there’s a lot of free hotspots scattered around Barcelona.

Here are some Barcelona tips for always finding free WiFi:

• Head to (or outside) a McDonalds or Starbucks – they always have WiFI
• Download an app like Wifi Map which will help you find hotspots
• Look on FourSquare, where people will often share the password of protected hotspots in the tips section

Keep receipts for a VAT refund

If you come from outside the EU and plan to do a lot of shopping, you may qualify for a VAT tax refund when you leave Barcelona. This can amount to huge amounts depending on what you buy!

Here’s more info on how to claim your VAT refund before you leave Barcelona.

Use Instagram, Pinterest and Blogs to research more offbeat Barcelona activities

Guidebooks and Google are great, but if you really want to find Barcelona hidden gems that are specific to your interests, be sure to dig deeper!

Psst: I’ve done some of the digging for you in this epic list of things to do in Barcelona.

From local blogs and Instagram accounts to the official tourism board website, there are a lot of great free resources available to help you find unique places to go that are more off the beaten path.

Need more guidance? You might find my guide on  How to Find Cool Stuff to Do Near You  helpful for this.

Use Google Maps to save spots you want to see

Another excellent Barcelona travel tip I have for you is to take advantage of Google Maps for more than just navigation.

One of my favourite  travel hacks  is using Google Maps for saving cool places.

Long story short, I star every location I deem interesting on Google Maps (I do this by pressing the Save button when I search up that spot), which gives me a visual map of all the cool cafes, street art murals, attractions, restaurants, etc. that I’ve saved during my research.

I love doing this because I’ll often end up in new areas during my explorations, and I can just look at my map to see if anything interesting I read about happens to be nearby. Saves a lot of planning!

Do you have any other Barcelona travel Tips to add?

Let me know in the comments! I hope you enjoyed this guide to visiting Barcelona. Safe travels!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

1 thought on “50+ Helpful Barcelona Travel Tips & Tricks: Must-Knows Before You Visit Barcelona!”

At La Boqueria they sell awesome combinations of blended fruit drinks. Our tip is to walk past the stalls at the front of the market and head to the second and third rows of stalls. You’ll find the same drinks, except they’re quite a bit cheaper than the stalls at the front of the market.

Barcelona’s La Boqueria should perhaps come with a health warning because there’s so much to-die-for food & treats wherever you look!

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5-day barcelona itinerary: things to do in barcelona.

Barcelona is one of my favorite destinations in Europe. I’ve lived here for 6 months, falling in love with it more and more every day. The city has an important place in the Mediterranean Sea region and is home to millions of residents, great beaches, perfect weather, a rich history and culture, and the incredible architecture of Antoni Gaudí.

You can visit this city for just a couple of days to get to know it but to really feel the culture of the city, you need to spend more than just a weekend here. I’ve heard several people mention to me that their visit to Barcelona wasn’t anything special or it just “didn’t click,” but I believe in the power of slow traveling and traveling “off the beaten path.” So here is my first tip for you: travel slowly – that’s the way of Spanish life and Spanish culture and that should be the way of getting to know it. When I visited Barcelona, I didn’t fall in love with the busy Las Ramblas or with standing in line to see the Sagrada Familia. I fell in love with the people, with the Spanish language, with the Catalan traditions and even with the Spanish midnight dinner.

Where Should I Stay in Barcelona?

If you haven’t found a place to stay in Barcelona, you should look outside of the city center in neighborhoods like Eixample or Gracia. Barcelona has a good public transport system, but obviously, you want to spend more of your time sightseeing and less time on a bus or metro, so I wouldn’t recommend booking a hotel too far from the main attractions. Why not stay at the Gothic Quarter? I found this neighborhood is the most unsafe at night (mainly pick-pocketing). Plus, all of the restaurants in the Gothic Quarter are way more expensive. Look for a hotel on Booking.com , it’s super easy to compare different options using the map function! 

How to Get to Barcelona from the Airport?

If you arrive in Barcelona by train, you will most likely be already in the city center. But, if you are flying in, you are probably wondering how you are going to get to Barcelona. First, I would like to discourage you from taking a taxi, seemingly the fastest and easiest choice will also end up being a lot more expensive. Taking a taxi from the airport in many cities is one of the most common travel mistakes , however, if you’re there only for the weekend or flying in late at night, that still might be the best option for you. 

The Best Way to Get to Barcelona from the Airport – RENFE train

The cheapest and fastest way to get to Barcelona is by the RENFE train. It runs about every 30 minutes to and from Barcelona airport to the city center and the travel time will be about 25 minutes. If traveling from the airport to the city center you can get off at Barcelona Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, or Clot. From those stations, you can go via the Barcelona metro system to your destination. 

To ride the RENFE train, you should follow the signs to Train (not Metro). If you are arriving into Terminal 1, take a shuttle bus to the train. and buy a T-Casual travel card from the entrance to the RENFE train. You can then use that card for all of your metro and train rides in the city center. It is also valid on the following means of transport to the airport:

• RENFE train 
• TMB airport bus N46
• TMB night busses N16 and N17

It is not valid for the following:

• The airport metro stops Aeroport T1 or Aeroport T2 on Metro Line L9 Sud
• The Aerobus (the express bus service to the airport).

Overall, this is the best deal to get from the airport to anywhere in the city. And, you won’t have to pay to switch train/metro to get to your hotel. 

Getting From the Airport to Barcelona by Bus (Bus 46)

This bus operates during the day from both airport terminals. The single ticket is €2.40 or you can use the T-card (see more above). This is probably one of the slowest ways to get to the city center as the bus stops a lot.

Getting to Barcelona from the Airport at Night

Use the NitBus N16 or N17 (the bus that operates between Barcelona Airport and the city center.) You can also use the T-Casual on this bus or buy a single ticket for €2.40. Operating hours: 21:55 – 04:45. 

Aerobus – Express Bus 

The Aerobus is an express bus that goes from Barcelona airport to the city center, you can catch it from outside of both terminals and take it to Plaça España or Plaça de Catalunya. It’s one of the more expensive public transportation options with a single ticket at €5.90 and a return ticket is at €10.20.

If you have any more questions about getting to and from the airport and are not sure what to pick, let me know in the comments below and I’d be happy to help! 

Packing for a trip to Europe? Use my European Packing List

The ultimate 5-day barcelona itinerary.

As I’ve mentioned, you should spend at least 5 days here to truly experience this city. If the time is short, feel free to mix and match! With that in mind, I’ve put together an overview of some of the city’s main sights to make your stay in Barcelona perfect, whether it’s part of a long weekend or a longer European itinerary.

Trip Highlight : A trip to Barcelona is incomplete without seeing Sagrada Familia (ideally inside and outside). Of all the attractions in Barcelona, Sagrada Familia was the most awe-inspiring stop.

Tourist Traps: I found La Rambla to be busy and overpriced.

The Best Meal : Menu Del Dia is always my favorite part of the day when I am in Spain. It’s served at many restaurants during lunch and usually includes several courses as well as a drink and a dessert.

I wish I visited : Parc del Laberint d’Horta. I’ve always found mazes exciting, but this one includes Barcelona’s oldest garden. Next time I’m in Barcelona, I will be adding it to my travel plan.

Day 1 – Explore the Gothic Quarter and Ciutadella Park

Exploring the gothic quarter.

The Gothic Quarter is one of the most famous (and one of my favorite) parts of Barcelona. Located in the heart of the old city, Barrio Gòtico (the Gothic Quarter) and nearby Ciutadella Park make the perfect first impression of Barcelona. You should start at Plaça de Catalunya in the morning and after taking a couple of pictures, take Portal de l’Àngel straight to the Barcelona Cathedral. 

After the Cathedral, take Carrer del Bisbe and Carrer de la Pietat to the Museum of History of Barcelona. This museum is one of my favorites in the city – here you will witness a whole network of Roman ruins underneath the heart of the city.

Then, take Carrer de la Llibreteria to the Plaça Sant Jaume, the administrative heart of both the city and surrounding Catalonia, where you will often find festivals and celebrations taking place. From there, keep going down Carrer de la Princesa to Parc de la Ciutadella. 

Shopping in the Gothic Quarter

I love to shop in the Gothic quarter, because it has a lot of local Spanish brands, like Custo Barcelona , Ivori Barcelona , and Dolores Promesas and many big chain brands, like Zara or H&M.  

Note: I wrote a whole post on things to see and do in the Gothic Quarter , see more there! 

Lunch: Have an Authentic Neapolitan Pizza at N.A.P.  

A picnic in the ciutadella park.

Running around Barcelona on foot can be tiring, to relax and have a snack, head to Parc de la Ciutadella, my favorite park in the city built over the previous site of a military citadel. The park is full of hidden surprises – some of my favorites: Cascada Monumental, the zoo, and Arc de Triomf! 

If you bring a few snacks with you (and a bottle of vermouth), you can easily spend a few hours here. (I think public drinking might be illegal in Barcelona, so do so at your own risk)

Dinner: Have a Wonderful Greek Feast at Dionisos

Day 2 – gaudi architecture, passeig de gràcia, and tapas all day, tour sagrada familia.

Start at Sagrada Familia, one of Barcelona’s symbols and is Antoni Gaudi’s most elaborate work. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona and you will probably spend most of your morning there – it’s breathtaking! It also often sells out, so get tickets online in advance as early as possible, and visit the towers (for an additional fee).  

Lunch: Menu del Dia in Eixample

See more gaudi work at passeig de gràcia.

After Lunch, take Carrer de Mallorca towards the city center and Passeig de Gràcia. On the way, you’ll see the Palau Macaya , Avinguda Diagonal, and in about 20 minutes of walking, you will arrive at Passeig de Gràcia. It’s also worth making a short detour on Avinguda Diagonal to see Casa de les Punxes .

At the corner of Carrer de Mallorca and Passeig de Gràcia, you will see Casa Mila, another of Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces! If you have time, the inside is just as unique as the outside and the rooftop is so beautiful at sunset. Also, Casa Mila hosts a light show in the evenings with music and dancing lights bringing the building to life. Standard admission (which includes an audio guide) is 22 EUR.

Next, look right across from Casa Mila and you will see Casa Batillo, I recommend visiting them on the same day. The façade of Casa Batillo is decorated with a colorful mosaic made of broken ceramic tiles and the roof is arched like the back of a dragon. The best time to see it is on April 23rd, it will be beautifully decorated with roses, and definitely one of the most beautiful Gaudí buildings.

Go Shopping!

If you have time, check out stores like   Misako  or Zara in the area, or visit the high-end designer stores like Santa Eulalia , Gucci , or Bimba y Lola , and others. 

Dinner: Head into the local Gracia neighborhood and have dinner in one of the local streets or squares like Plaça del Sol, Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia, or Carrer del Torrent de l’Olla. Have tapas or Paella, and don’t forget about Spanish wine! For dessert, try Crema Catalana. 

Day 3 – Museu Nacional D’Art de Catalunya and Plaça d’Espanya

You may have noticed how I split up Barcelona into sections! Now, it’s time to visit another beautiful area of Barcelona, Plaça d’Espanya and Montjuïc! And the best day to visit this area is on a Saturday or Sunday, as Museu Nacional D’Art de Catalunya is free on Saturday evenings and first Sundays of the month, and Montjuïc Castle is free on Sundays! I know, a lot to look forward to, it’s one of my favorite parts of the city!

Start at the Montjuïc Castle

In the morning, I recommend starting at the Montjuïc Castle, a 17th-century hilltop fortress & former prison, housing a military museum with impressive city views. The best and the cheapest way is to get there by bus #150 from Plaça d’Espanya (about $1.50 if you have the 10-ride ticket), the most exciting way is to take the cable car . I would recommend taking the cable car there and then the bus to Plaça d’Espanya afterward. General admission to the castle is 9 euros, but the first Sunday of each month and Sundays from 3pm are free! Read more about the Montjuïc Castle here , it has incredible history, and as I’ve mentioned, amazing views!

Lunch, Plaça d’Espanya, and Arenas de Barcelona

As I’ve mentioned above, after a tour of the Montjuïc Castle, you should take the bus to Plaça d’Espanya. Here you will find more lunch options and you can enjoy a little rest or shopping. You can have lunch at the shopping center food court at Arenas de Barcelona . Here, you can also take the escalators to the rooftop to see the views of Plaça d’Espanya, relax, or do some shopping. Other great options for lunch are sushi at Dumplings , empanadas and pizzas at L’ Empanada de Papá , or traditional Spanish food at Grupo Silvestre . 

Museu Nacional D’Art de Catalunya 

After a tasty lunch, start your hike to the Museu Nacional D’Art de Catalunya. You will pass the Font Màgica de Montjuïc (Magic Fountain of Montjuic), but it’s ok, it’s truly magical in the evening. Spend the rest of the afternoon at Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, a museum of 11th- to 20th-century Catalan art with an amazing Romanesque collection. Here you will see art by famous artists like Pablo Picasso, Marià Fortuny, Antoni Caba, and Salvador Dalí. And yes, if you visit on a Saturday evening (check the time) or first Sunday of the month, you will be able to get in for free!

The Magic Fountain 

The magic fountain is a spectacular display of color, light, motion, music, and water performance. If you’re in the area in the evening, stay for a couple of hours to see the show. The shows usually start at 8 pm or later, but make sure to check the schedule . 

Dinner: Have an Italian dinner at Ristorante Meraviglioso , traditional Catalan food at L’Amfora , or a fixed menu at Criux or Cinc Sentits . 

Go clubbing in barcelona.

I am usually not the one to go clubbing, but when in Barcelona, a party is a must! There are several clubs on the beach, including Shoko or Pacha and many people also love Wednesday nights at Razzmatazz . 

Day 4 – Visit Park Güell in the Morning and Climb Tibidabo

Day four will consist of amazing views of the city and mountains outside of the Barcelona city center. 

Take a Walk in Park Güell

Park Güell is one of the most impressive parks in the world, and if you were to choose 2 things to see in Barcelona, I would recommend Park Güell to be one of them. There are only 400 tickets available every half-hour and they sell out well in advance. As with Sagrada Familia, you should book your tickets online . Admission is 7.50 EUR, with discounts available.

Lunch: This part of Barcelona has a lot of options for Menu del Dia – a lunch menu that includes a first and second course, plus drink and dessert for a fixed price, usually between 10 and 15 euros. Or, have a quick stop at La Terrasseta del Lesseps for a more affordable option. 

See the views from the tibidabo mountain.

After lunch, head to L7 stop of Avinguda Tibidabo and use the cable car to get on top. Once you’re on top, be sure to visit Tibidabo’s retro theme park and, of course, the Cathedral del Sagrat Cor. This is the cathedral that you see from almost anywhere in the city and it’s even breath-taking up close. Spend the rest of the day exploring the beautiful area. 

Related: See Europe Travel Tips for 2020

Day 5 – relax on the beach at la barceloneta and have a romantic picnic with a view.

The perfect way to end your trip – relaxing and soaking up the sun!

Take a blanket, lay down and enjoy the sun, the sounds of the waves with the music hums – Barceloneta is all about the action. 

Explore a Secret Barcelona Spot – Bunkers del Carmel

After the beach, take public transportation to Bunkers del Carmel , WWII bunkers and a historic landmark that arguably provides the best view of Barcelona. Seeing the sunsets here is a must-do while you are in Barcelona and bring your own drinks and snacks while enjoying the view. If you go, share your pictures with me on Instagram or in the comments below! 

Bonus: More Things to Do in Barcelona

See more exciting ideas below: 

• See a Soccer Game at Camp Nou
• Watch a Flamenco show at Palau de la Música Catalana
• Visit Picasso Museum
• Find all of Gaudi’s architecture in Barcelona
• Get lost in Parc del Laberint d’Horta

Go on a Day Trip from Barcelona

There are great destinations that are just a short train ride away from Barcelona! If you have more time, you should definitely take a trip to Girona , Montserrat , or Cadaques . And if you have a few more days, you should continue your trip to the south of Spain in Andalusia or Madrid .  

Bonus: Souvenirs to bring home from Barcelona

• Gaudi-Inspired Gifts: Antoni Gaudí’s distinctive architectural style is synonymous with Barcelona. Look for souvenirs inspired by his famous works, such as Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà, including books, posters, mugs, and other memorabilia.
• Ceramics: Barcelona is known for its stunning ceramic tiles, featuring vibrant colors and intricate designs. You can find decorative tiles in various sizes, perfect for adding a touch of Spanish flair to your home.
• Cava and Vermouth: As the birthplace of Cava, a sparkling wine similar to champagne, Barcelona offers plenty of opportunities to sample and purchase this delightful beverage. Spanish Vermouth, often produced in nearby Tarragona , is another delicious beverage to bring home. Get a bottle or two to enjoy with friends and family.
• Jamón Ibérico : Spain is renowned for its delicious cured ham, known as jamón ibérico. Pick up a vacuum-sealed pack of this savory delicacy to enjoy at home or as a gift for a foodie friend.
• Local Artisanal Products : Barcelona is home to many talented artisans producing unique handmade goods, such as ceramics, textiles, leather goods, and jewelry. Head over to Barrio Gotico and support local artists and craftsmen by purchasing one-of-a-kind souvenirs directly from their workshops or boutiques.
• Turron: Turron is a nougat-like confection made with almonds and honey. These sweet treats make for delicious souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home.

Are you going to Barcelona? What are you looking forward to the most? Let me know in the comments!

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21 Comments

Great post, I’ve never heard of the bunkers of Barcelona. I’d love to make a visit when we are all free to travel again!

I don’t know why but I feel like Barcelona always gets the short end of the stick when it comes to places in Europe. Even when I was there it didn’t seem like it was a hyped destination, but I absolutely LOVED it. I am not an artsy person either, but I loved the ambiance and walking down the La Rambla. Also, the best paella I’ve ever had was in Barcelona!

Nice itinerary. I haven’t been to Barcelona.

I’ve never been to Barcelona, but it’s next in my list! Great post! Thanks for sharing

These are great tips to get from the airport to the city! I’ve been drawn more and more to Barcelona recently, so this was a nice post to read. 🙂

I am such a fan of unique architecture! I must say, if I ever travel to Barcelona, I will definitely refer to your guide so I don’t miss any of these treasures! I also enjoy quite a bit churches, in my understanding, I would be pleased with the city 😉

I love Barcelona! It’s definitely my fave city in Europe, such great food and coffee and wonderful people. Your itinerary is well-thought-out, great job 🙂

Beautiful pictures. Spain has always been on my list of places I’d love to travel. Can’t wait to visit there someday! ♥️

Hey Marina! Loved your post (as always!!) Your photos are gorgeous and I’m going to save this for when I head to Spain (hopefully sooner than later in my life!!) I hope you are staying safe in Chicago! 🙂 🙂

I always feel so ridiculous when I think about how close Spain is to me and how little I’ve seen of it! This post has convinced me to go for a long weekend and explore! Some beautiful sites that I’m sure I will visit

Great itinerary, I’ve been to Barcelona twice and you cover so much and gave me some ideas for the next time. I always stay in Eixample, I love that neighborhood. Which day trip location do you think is the best for someone who only has time for one trip outside of Barcelona?

Wow, what a thorough post on how to experience Barcelona fully. I love that you offer practical, money conscious and safe guidelines. Thanks for your tips on staying outside the city, not travelling by taxi and thanks for providing such a wide variety of things to so. Barcelona is on my bucket list, so I hope to cross it off soon, armed with your guidance.

i love the gothic quarter! camp nou is also worth a visit, but don’t forget it is football not soccer haha

We visited Barcelona on a cruise for a day, so we didn’t get to explore much – only Park Guell, Gothic Quarter, and Sagrada Familia. The little time we spent, we loved, and hope to return with our kids to explore more. This was a great summary of some places to visit.

Thank you so much! I go back to Barcelona often (it’s my favorite city in the world) and I still find new places to see and new things to do! I already have a few things on my bucket list for when I go back again!

Now I’m sad after reading this 🙁 I had planned on going to Barcelona this summer for my 60th birthday, but now with the virus, I can’t go. I was so anxious to see Gandi’s architecture. It’s breathtaking – especially the church. Seeing the light show at Casa Mila would have been a fun way to spend an evening as well. And of course the beach! Always have to spend at least one day at the beach.

I am so sorry to hear that your trip has been canceled! I also was planning to go back to Barcelona this summer, but my trip has been postponed. I hope that we will be able to travel again soon and you can see the amazing Gaudi architecture for yourself!

I have always wanted to travel to Barcelona and this article is a great guide and itinerary! Casa Batillo is absolutely gorgeous and I would really love to just walk along that beach right now! Thanks for all the insightful and expert information. Living in Barcelona was obviously a wonderful experience for you! Thanks for the inspiration!

As a former architect, I crave for any city with amazing architecture. It looks like Barcelona will not disappoint me. I will love to see the Sagrada Familia in closer detail and marvel at all Antoni Gaudi’s creations.

What’s up, just wanted to mention, I loved this blog post. It was practical. Keep on posting!

I loved this blog post! Great read! I visit your blog often and you are always coming up with some quality stuff. I shared this on my Facebook Page and my audiance loved it! Keep it up!. 🙂

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Things to do in Barcelona – The 12 Best Attractions and Hidden Gems

I love barcelona, and in this guide, i'll share the best things to do in barcelona and some personal favourites..

Perhaps one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and undoubtedly one of the most popular travel destinations on the continent – Barcelona is eternally popular, and there is plenty of things to do in Barcelona.

Planning a last minute trip to Barcelona? Here are some of my favourite places to stay & things to do: 🛌 Places to Stay : 1. Ohla Barcelona (best luxury hotel with a rooftop pool) 2. Yurbban Ramblas (fantastic location & modern rooms at a fair rate) 3. Hotel Nouvel (cheap, but decent hotel in the city centre) Top Activities & Tours : 1. Get the Hola Barcelona Card & get unlimited use of public transport (you wont regret this!) 2. Make sure you book Sagrada Familia Skip The Line Tickets as the lines get super long 3. Take a Tapas & Wine Food Tour with a local guide

In this guide, we look at things to do in Barcelona to be noticed on a trip to the Spanish coastal city.

1. Sagrada Familia – Barcelona’s most famous sight

2. shopping & sightseeing on the rambla, 3. la boqueria – food market next to the rambla, 4. telefèric de montjuïc (barcelona cable car), 5. fc barcelona from the inside – visit camp nou, 6. the beaches 🏖, 7. park güell, 8. barcelona cathedral, 9. the gothic quarter, 10. hop on hop off bus , 11. experience a flamenco show, 12. day trip to montserrat.

Let’s jump straight into the travel guide, beginning with one of Spain ‘s most famous tourist attractions.

What to do and see in Barcelona? Here are some of my favourites after 4 trips to the Spanish coastal city.

I can’t have a Barcelona travel guide without the Sagrada Familia. As Antoni Gaudi started building the iconic building in 1882 (!), he hardly expected that the work on the church would last well over 100 years.

Nevertheless, this is the case with the Sagrada Familia, which still needs to be completed, but Barcelona’s most famous landmark nonetheless and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Barcelona.

The Sagrada Familia is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and you can enjoy the view of the church from many parts of Barcelona. Of course, it is free to look at the church from the outside, while it costs money to visit the church.

Tip: buy a ticket to the Sagrada Familia online & skip the queue

The church is one of the most famous in the world and most tourists who visit Barcelona want to experience the church from the inside. That’s why there is a long queue!

You can avoid this if you are a little bright as you can buy fast-track tickets, which allow you to skip the queue and enter directly.

You must buy these tickets online.

Get tickets for Sagrada Familia here .

La Rambla is a street in the centre of Barcelona that you will undoubtedly pass by if you visit Barcelona for the first time.

There is a string of restaurants, bars and shops on the street, where there is always plenty of life. In the summer months, when there are extra many tourists, the street can feel too packed, and there are queues at the good restaurants.

As the Rambla is the street everyone must visit when they travel to Barcelona, there are, unfortunately, some tourist traps you must watch out for.

Therefore, I recommend anyone who wants to experience the good Barcelona atmosphere and enjoy a meal at one of the Rambla’s many restaurants to read up on various restaurants from home.

Use a site like Tripadvisor or Google Maps and read reviews from previous guests. Then you will surely get a good meal and not waste your money on a tourist trap.

You can also stroll on the Rambla and look at shops (and people). Start at the top near Placa Catalunya metro station and walk down to the old port.

It’s an excellent walk.

By the way, I recommend getting the Hola BCN Card that gives you unlimited access to public transport in all of Barcelona for either 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours.

You can even use the Hola BCN Card to and from Barcelona Airport .

Around the middle of the Rambla, we find La Boqueria, which is a brilliant food market in the city centre of Barcelona.

There are also small ‘restaurants’ inside the market where you can sit at the bar and watch your fish being prepared.

There is everything from fresh fruit to street food and huge frozen fish.

Undoubtedly one of the places in Barcelona you have to experience – even though it is pretty touristy (with the location right on the Rambla), it is a fascinating place to drop by.

Have you read my guide on the best areas and places to stay in Barcelona ? In that guide I’m mentioning several hotels close to La Boqueria.

One thing that sets Barcelona apart from other popular big cities in Europe is the opportunity to take a (rather long) trip by cable car, where you can see how big the city is.

From the Montjuïc cable car , you can spot the city’s well-known sights, with the Sagrada Familia, as mentioned above, naturally being the easiest to spot.

The cable car is named after the district/hill of Montjüic , an epicentre of art in Barcelona and thus worth exploring if you have these interests.

The Montjuïc cable car is a reasonably cheap sight/experience in Barcelona, so I would recommend everyone to experience it. 

The trip is approximately 750 meters long, and there are 3 stops on the cable car, so there is plenty of opportunity to explore the entire hill.

Get tickets here .

FC Barcelona has been one of the best football teams in the world for many years, and you can think about the club what you want, but their stadium & the club’s history is unique.

Therefore, I recommend anyone with the slightest interest in football visit Camp Nou and experience FC Barcelona from the inside.

You have to book your tour of the stadium in advance and it is recommended to book as far in advance as possible.

If you have already booked your flight and hotel in Barcelona, then you can start planning when you will visit Camp Nou and book the tickets.

You get a 1.5-hour tour of Camp Nou, including the dedicated FC Barcelona museum, where many treasures from the great club’s incredible history are displayed.

Read more about the tour and get tickets here .

By the way, it is super easy to get to the stadium from the Rambla with the metro.

I used the Hola BCN Card and got there in 15 minutes from the Drassanes metro station.

I am not a fan of FC Barcelona myself, but I am happy with football, and it was awe-inspiring to visit the Barcelona museum at Camp Nou.

Whether you like the club, its history is imposing, and the stadium is iconic.

As a football fan, it was a great experience to step into the stadium (which, by the way, you do directly from the museum) from which I have sat and watched so many football matches as a child.

Camp Nou is indeed Barcelona’s best thing to do for football fans. 

And then to something that attracts many tourists when the summer holiday destination has to be chosen, and the choice falls on Barcelona: the excellent beach.

Fascinating big cities with a beach are relatively hard to find here in Europe, but Barcelona has excellent beaches close to the city centre.

It doesn’t get much better 😀

If you want to experience Barcelona from the seaside, consider taking a boat trip. 

Check out the best boat tours in Barcelona .

Park Güell is as iconic to Barcelona as the beach and the Sagrada Familia. If you didn’t get enough of experiencing Barcelona’s skyline from the cable car, then in Park Güell, you can also get an outstanding view of the city.

The park is also the place in Barcelona that most travellers visit yearly – with good reason.

In addition to the epic view of Barcelona, there are an incredible number of quirky buildings in the park, so the cheap entry price is well worth it.

Get tickets in advance here .

I recommend walking down towards the city centre from the park as you’ll walk through the romantic Gracia area – one of the best areas to stay in Barcelona.

We jump right back to the central part of the city, where the impressive cathedral is one of the things to do in Barcelona you need to drop by.

La Sagrada Familia naturally takes first place in “must-see churches”, but the cathedral in the centre is also stunning.

Read more and get tickets here .

The cathedral is located in a neighbourhood high on the list of areas in Barcelona you would like to visit and stay in as a tourist.

Here are narrow streets and beautiful old buildings. For me, it evoked memories of the old town in Florence and perhaps Trastevere in Rome .

In any case, without a doubt an area where you can spend many hours just wandering around, looking at buildings and shops and then finding a cosy café and getting some delicious food.

As in all other big cities in Europe, Barcelona has dedicated sightseeing buses. I enjoy walking a lot of kilometres when I’m on a city break, but I’ve also enjoyed taking sightseeing buses.

In Barcelona, you can take a few different lines on the sightseeing buses so that you can see most of Barcelona’s best-known sights from the open double-decker bus.

You can see the routes and get tickets online at GetYourGuide here .

If there is one place in the world you must experience a flamenco show, it is Spain. Here in Barcelona, there is a long-standing tradition of dancing flamenco.

It is challenging to sit still and not be captivated when you experience a Flamenco show, so if you would like to have a different evening in Barcelona, this is a good bet.

See more about one of the best shows here .

There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona for many days, but if you want to experience something completely different from the busy streets and beaches, then a day trip to the Montserrat monastery is a great idea.

Montserrat is a small town up in the mountains a little inland from Barcelona, which, as you know, is on the coast:

You can take the train from Barcelona to Montserrat, but guided tours from Barcelona to the monastery run daily. GetYourGuide has launched their own tour, which includes a visit to the Montserrat monastery, a wine tasting and lunch.

See more about the trip and book online here .

I hope you can use this guide to the best things to do in Barcelona. You are welcome to comment below if you have any questions about Barcelona or your trip.

Otherwise, I just want to wish you an excellent trip to fantastic Barcelona.

Read all my Barcelona travel guides here .

Websites I use to book my trips 👇 • Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay • GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation • This power bank is the one thing I never travel without • Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers Psst 👀 Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?

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How to Get Around in Barcelona Spain

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: January 24, 2024

Enjoy this free practical guide for getting around Barcelona including getting to/from the BCN airport. Plus the cheapest ways to get to all the top tourist attractions in the city.

Exploring on your own is easy – you just have to decide which of the methods of transportation you wish to use.

How to get around Barcelona

You will find that you have many choices for transport options in Barcelona.

• Transit Bus
• Hop-on-Hop-off Tourist Bus

Read more about traveling to Barcelona

• 9 Days of Solo Travel – Highlights of my Trip – my first solo trip to Barcelona
• Parc Ciutadella – a Perfect Afternoon in Barcelona
• Planning and Preparing for my Solo Trip to Barcelona  – plan your trip
• Gaudi’s Amazing Architecture – Casa Battlo in Barcelona  – loved the blue tiles
• Trencadis Serpentine Mosaic Tile Bench at Gaudi’s Park Guell  – spend a day

In This Article:

Walking around Barcelona

My favorite mode of transportation in most cities is walking. Slow, yes – but so enjoyable. I see so much more when I am walking than when I am in a taxi or bus. Just remember to bring comfortable walking shoes for travel and a lightweight backpack for your Barcelona trip.

Break-in those shoes before your arrival so that you can enjoy your visit to the fullest. In Barcelona watch for the blue signs pointing the way to tourist sites around the city.

You can also buy a handy laminated map of Barcelona  to help find your way around on your own.

Looking at guide books, I brought both the National Geographic Walking Barcelona guide and the Eyewitness Travel Barcelona and Catalonia guide for an all around guide to Barcelona.

A guide book is an easy way to assist in finding your way around Barcelona.

Very handy to have when you are exploring on your own on foot. With the NatGeo guide you can do you own walking tours around Barcelona.

READ NOW: 25 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

Blue signs with bright yellow and white text pointing the way to tourist sites in Barcelona

For my first solo trip to Barcelona I took an overnight flight from NYC, landing in Barcelona at 7:15 in the morning.

I had researched my options for getting to my apartment in La Ribera neighborhood  and AeroBus turned out to be a great option – such a cheap and easy way to get from Barcelona airport to the central historic region.

AeroBus gets you to and from BCN airport

AeroBus is a convenient mode of transportation from BCN El Prat airport to central Barcelona, and back to the airport from the city center. At a cost of 5.90 Euros (single trip is valid for 90 days) or 10.20 (for a return ticket – valid within 15 days of validation) it is also a very affordable option, great for the budget traveler.

Buy AeroBus tickets online , from the bus driver (cash only), or from a vending machine at the airport or at Placa de Catalunya (across from El Corte Ingles shopping mall)

• Gran Via-Urgell,
• Placa Universidad)
• Placa de Catalunya

There are 3 stops from Barcelona to BCN  airport

• Sepulveda-Urgell
• Placa Espanya

AeroBus runs every 5 minutes (365 days per year) from airport Terminals 1 and 2.

The bus ride takes approximately 35 minutes to Placa Catalunya.

Have a look at hotels near BCN El Prat airport – check here for the latest hotel rates – if you have an early morning flight this is a great option to ensure you are at the airport on time – and no traffic worries on your travel day!

On my first trip to Barcelona I was through customs and immigration and sitting on the AeroBus within 45 minutes of landing. Another 30 minutes or so and I was getting off the bus at Placa de Catalunya enjoying a sunny morning walk in the historic district.

With the AeroBus ticket I was given a coupon book for discounts at local restaurants, art museums, music events, bicycle and scooter rental, etc.

Buy your ticket upon arrival at BCN airport or online at the AeroBus website:  FAQ AeroBus schedule and rates . If you need a ticket to the airport you can also buy tickets at the vending machine at Placa de Catalunya.

Save it for later on Pinterest!

Getting around Barcelona by Bus or Tram

Barcelona has an extensive public bus system for travel throughout the city. All of the buses have been adapted for people with reduced mobility.

On the TMB (Transport Metropolitans de Barcelona) website you can look up information for bus schedules and maps.

Visit the main TMB website for bus schedules and maps.

Barcelona metro 10 trip pass ticket

Getting around via Metro in Barcelona

Metro was my favorite way to get around the city fast and cheap. I bought 10 ride passes (called a T10 card) at the ticket vending machine.

10 ride pass costs 10.20 Euros (September 2018) and is good for 10 individual trips on the metro

Each time you use the ticket – feeding it into the machine at the entrance to the metro – the date and time of use are printed on the back of the ticket.

There are numerous entrances to the underground metro stations so do take note of the street name for the entrance/exit at the metro. Overall I do find metro to be the fastest way to get around Barcelona.

If you are directionally challenged like me, you may want to bring a map of Barcelona  with you.

Barcelona Metro is air-conditioned – stay cool in summer while exploring the city!

Metro ticket options at Barcelona metro ticket machine

The metro lines are identified by number and color. To locate metro stations look for signs bearing a red “M” with white background.

When buying metro tickets from the vending machines at the metro stations you can select language preference on the bottom right-hand part of the display – see the flags in the photo above.

Transport Metropolitans de Barcelona website: Metro schedule, rates, maps Android users can download the app for Barcelona Metro Map and Routing iPhone users can download the Barcelona Metro TMB map App  

Barcelona Hop-on Hop-off Tourist Bus

These tourist buses charge a flat rate for the ticket which is good for 24 hours, or you can buy a 2-day option. You can hop-on and hop-off the bus at any of their stops as many times as you like for the duration of your ticket.

This is the perfect option for exploring Barcelona by yourself. It’s easy to explore all the top tourist attractions with the Hop-on Hop-off tourist buses.

The beauty of the Hop-on Hop-Off Tourist Bus is that you don’t need to figure out how to get to all the best tourist sites – just hop-on and hop-off at the top attractions that you want to see.

For 10% discount on tickets as well as information on routes, maps, and more visit the website:

Hop-on hop-off Bus website

Buy your Barcelona Guide Book NOW!

Bicycle rental in Barcelona

There are bicycle rental options and there is the Bicing bike-share system in Barcelona. The Bicing website is only available in Spanish or Catalan but here is a link . Using Google translate:  The map can be display stations in operation and see real-time availability of bicycles at each station.

Update: Bicing is set up for locals traveling on short trips around Barcelona – not really for tourists but you can use it for FREE for the first 30 minutes.

Bicing bicycle rental service is available year round 24/7 with a few thousand bicycles distributed around the city. If you are living in Barcelona or staying long term you may want to sign up.

Bicing bike rental cost 47.16 Euro per year – annual subscription sign-up required 4.54 Euro fee for the card when first signing up for Bicing FREE first 30 minutes (requires annual subscription sign-up) .74 Euro per half hour – up to 2 hours maximum 4.49 Euro fee for exceeding the 2-hour maximum 150 Euro for non-return of bicycle 24 hours after removing bike from station

I am a bit of a chicken when it comes to riding a bike in a city. I think I am too easily distracted and would probably get in an accident due to my lack of attention to traffic.

Or I would make such an effort to pay attention that I wouldn’t enjoy the seeing the city as I rode my bicycle.

Smaller towns are more my style for bicycle riding but I know plenty of people who would be keen to explore Barcelona by bike.

Scooter rental in Barcelona

You can zoom around town with a scooter rental. For me, a scooter would offer the opportunity to get lost that much faster and much more often than I do on foot. I did not try out a scooter rental but it looks like a fun way to get around in Barcelona.

Taxis are always an option in any major city. I mostly try to avoid using taxis as they are generally more costly than public transportation. I would use a taxi in Barcelona if I were attending an event that was not easily accessible by metro and walking.

• Taxi rates start at around 2 Euro + 1 Euro per km
• Bring cash as many of the taxis will not accept debit or credit card

If you prefer to do the driving yourself then a rental car is a great option. There are plenty of great day trips from Barcelona so a rental comes in handy if you want to get to Sitges or Montserrat on your own.

Whatever transportation options you choose for finding your way around I hope you love the city as much as I do. Enjoy your travels! Remember to buy a guide book for Barcelona!

Check out my other Barcelona blog posts below. You will find so many attractions in Barcelona you could spend a week and not see everything.

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Thursday 8th of July 2021

Great post! I’m curious, how long does it take to get around the city? I know it depends on where you’re coming and going, but is everything within 30 minutes reach or would you say it takes longer to get from one place to the next generally?

Susan Moore

Friday 9th of July 2021

Katie, Thanks! Yes, generally you can get to all the main attractions in Barcelona within 30 minutes or so. Cheers, Susan

Donna Janke

Friday 29th of November 2019

I agree that walking is the best way - so much to see. The Metro is fast and good, but we often preferred to use the bus, simply because we could sightsee out the window. I too would be too chicken to try bicycling. I'm not a strong or confident cyclist.

Taking the bus is a great idea for sightseeing in Barcelona - so many beautiful buildings and architectural features in the city.

Suzanne Fluhr

Thursday 23rd of April 2015

Three days until I leave for Barcelona, so this is an excellent refresher for me. I prefer walking and will sometimes opt to stay in a more expensive, more central location so I can walk to many of the places on my list of places to see. The last time I was in Barcelona I took the Aerobus, a great option for getting from the airport into town. I've been reading scary things about pickpockets on the Metro. Did you feel insecure at all?

Saturday 25th of April 2015

Thanks for your comment Suzanne. I just used Aerobus again yesterday - bought my return ticket online so I didn't have to bother getting the ticket upon arrival in Barcelona. I loved using the metro in Barcelona! I think I went through 3 of the 10-trip tickets on my last visit. As for pickpockets, every major city has them. While in any city, when you are among large crowds, I would advise keeping your handbag in front of you at all times. If I were a guy I wouldn't be keeping a wallet or mobile phone in my back pocket. I felt perfectly safe during all my travels within Barcelona. Enjoy your trip Suzanne!

Peter Wuebker

Thank you the handy and timely Barcelona transport info. Walking and metro for us. We'll probably get the multi-day passes which are good for all types of transportation. We used them in Singapore. Quick, easy and inexpensive. These also work for regional rail.

Anne Woodyard (@MusicandMarkets)

Wednesday 22nd of April 2015

Read this eagerly, as we're returning to Barcelona in a couple of weeks - and we'll be walking, walking, walking!

10 Cheapest Ways to Travel in Barcelona (Save Big!)

So, you’ve caught the Barcelona bug, huh? I don’t blame you. With its rich culture, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering paellas, who wouldn’t be lured by its charms? 

But if the thought of your wallet taking a hit is making you sweat, fear not! You’re about to uncover the holy grail of budget-friendly tips with the cheapest ways to travel in Barcelona.

After all, I live in Spain and have spent a chunk of my life wandering around Barcelona. And trust me, I’ve mastered the art of pinching pennies (or, well, euros) without missing out on the fun. 

Get ready for the insider scoop on the cheapest ways to soak in the magic of Barcelona!

Table of Contents

What is the cheapest way to get around Barcelona?

The metro is a popular and cost-effective way to see Barcelona. The underground system is extensive, reaching many of the city’s top attractions, making it easily one of the best ways to get around Barcelona .

Affordable ticket options include single trips or unlimited daily, weekly, and monthly passes, so choose the one that best fits your travel plans.

When it comes to the cheapest ways to get around Barcelona, the metro here is going to be high up on your list. 

Using the metro system in Barcelona is also pretty straightforward, and the color-coded lines make navigation a breeze. Plus, with several options for public transport tickets in Barcelona , like the T-casual pass that gets you 10 rides, you’ll be able to pick the most budget-friendly choice for you based on your travel style!

PRO TIP: The Hola Barcelona Travel Card gives you free public transport in Barcelona, including to and from the airport – which in itself would normally cost just over €10 for a return trip.

It’s great for getting around the city quickly, efficiently and cheaply!

Get your own Hola Barcelona Travel Card here.

Now, if you’re not in a rush and you fancy seeing a bit of the city as you travel, give the buses a try. They’re frequent, comfortable, and offer routes that the metro might not cover. 

Barcelona’s bus network is extensive and can take you almost anywhere in the city. And the bus system is so well connected that it offers a cheap way to explore the city.

The bus stops have digital displays showing when the next one’s due, so you’re never left guessing. And those metro tickets you just bought, like the T-casual pass or Hola Barcelona Travel Card ? Yep, they work here too.

One other thing to keep in mind: The Aerobús is a great way to get to and from the airport. While the Hola Barcelona card includes free metro trips to and from the airport, it doesn’t cover the bus, so if that’s what you prefer when arriving to or leaving the city, check out the Aerobús airport bus to find out more.

3. Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

Alright, before you roll your eyes and say “that’s too touristy for me!”, hear me out. The Hop-On Hop-Off buses can be a real asset for your trip if you’re short on time or just want a quick overview of the city. 

While it’s a tad pricier than the regular bus or metro, it’s super convenient, especially if you’re trying to hit a bunch of landmarks in one day. You can jump off at a site, explore a bit, then catch the next one. 

Remember, it’s all about the experience, and sometimes it’s cool to play tourist – especially if you are one!

Check the latest price and availability of the hop-on hop-off bus here for your planned travel dates!

If you’re itching to explore some of the newer parts of Barcelona, the tram is your buddy. While it doesn’t cover the older parts of the city, it gets you smoothly to areas that buses and metros might skim over. 

It’s especially handy for reaching places along the coast. Trams are modern, clean, and yep, your trusty Hola Barcelona and T-casual pass work here too. 

There’s something soothing about tram rides, watching the city slide by while you’re cozy inside. And the fact it’s one of the cheapest ways to travel in Barcelona is definitely a good thing too!

Here’s where the real magic happens. While public transport is great for longer distances, sometimes you’ve got to pound the pavement to discover those hidden corners of the city. 

Barcelona’s neighborhoods are full of character and little surprises, so slipping on comfy shoes and wandering around is often the best way to get a feel for the city’s heartbeat. 

Plus, it’s free, easily making it the cheapest way to travel in Barcelona – and who doesn’t love a good bargain?

Biking around Barcelona? Oh, it’s a thing, and it’s gaining steam. 

The city’s made a big push for eco-friendly transport, which means more bike lanes and bike-friendly zones. Renting a bike for a day won’t burn a hole in your pocket, and it gives you the freedom to roam as you please. 

From beach promenades to the winding lanes of El Raval, two wheels can be your ticket to an offbeat Barcelona adventure. Just remember to lock it up properly when stopping for those impromptu tapas breaks, as if not, your bike might not be waiting for you when you come back…

7. Electric scooter

For a quick and easy way to get around, consider renting an electric scooter. There are multiple scooter-sharing platforms in the city that offer affordable prices and allow you to zip around Barcelona effortlessly.

Gone are the days when scooters were just for kids. Electric scooters have taken over the streets of Barcelona, and honestly, they’re kinda fun. 

They’re quick, zippy, and perfect for short distances. Plus, you’ll find several apps offering scooter rentals by the minute, so just pick, unlock, and off you go. 

(And while it’s a blast to ride one, always wear a helmet. Safety first, right? Not to mention that it’s the law here.)

Cabify is a solid alternative to the regular taxi. Think of it as Spain’s answer to ridesharing. 

It’s app-based, so you can book and track your ride from your phone. Fares are transparent (in that you agree on the price when you select a ride) and, at least in my experience, often cheaper than taxis. 

Basically, if you’re someone who likes a set price before jumping in, Cabify’s a good choice.

What’s your perfect destination for your dream trip to Spain?

Want to discover a city or live your island dreams?

Embrace the food scene or step through the pages of history?

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

Taxis in Barcelona are more affordable than you’d expect. They’re everywhere, and they’re recognizable by their black and yellow design. 

If you’ve had one too many cervezas or you’re lugging around bags from a shopping spree, taxis are a convenient way to get back to your accommodation. While it’s not the cheapest option on the list, sometimes convenience wins. 

And while fares are regulated, just remember to ensure the meter’s running to avoid any unwelcome surprises…

Ah, the ever-present Uber. Yep, it’s in Barcelona too. While it had its ups and downs in Spain, it’s now operational and a popular choice for many. 

One different aspect of it here is that it’s basically the same as a taxi. While you can use the Uber app, the price and availability will be in line with taxis, so don’t necessarily feel like one offers a better deal than the other.

Despite this though, it’s certainly one way to travel in Barcelona and so is worth having on this list so you’re aware it’s out there – even if it’s not the cheapest, even amongst the rideshare apps (Cabify takes the cake for that).

Mastering Barcelona’s Transport System

Understanding barcelona public transport fares.

If you’re new to Barcelona, don’t worry, as the fare system is pretty easy to get the hang of. 

Basically, fares depend on zones. Most of the main attractions are in Zone 1, so if you’re mainly sightseeing, you won’t need to venture beyond that. 

Single tickets can be bought for €2.40 per ride from vending machines at metro stations or aboard buses – but honestly? They’re not super wallet-friendly for multiple rides. 

If you’re making more than a couple of trips, multi-ride tickets like the T-casual are where the real savings are at. 

Or, as I mentioned earlier, you can get the Hola Barcelona Travel Card for free public transport for your selected validity period. It’s great if you’ll be seeing a lot of sights – or even if you’re going to or from the airport – as it more than pays for itself.

Barcelona Travel Cards Explained

If you plan to use public transportation frequently, then travel cards are your best bet to save money. Here are the most popular options:

• Hola Barcelona Travel Card : This is like the golden ticket for those on a whirlwind visit. It offers unlimited travel for specific timeframes: 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours. So if you’ve got a packed itinerary and you’re zooming around the city, this card can be a real money-saver. The clock starts ticking from the first use, so plan your adventures accordingly!
• T-Dia ticket : Meet the one-day champ of Barcelona travel cards. The T-Dia offers unlimited rides for a single day. Perfect if you’ve got one day of heavy travel or if you’re attempting a Barcelona-in-a-day kind of challenge. Just remember, there’s a midnight expiry on this one, regardless of when you start.
• T-Casual : Enter the favorite of many locals: the T-Casual. Designed with the occasional commuter in mind, the T-Casual offers ten rides. However, there’s a catch: it’s personalized for individual use. That means no sharing with your travel buddy, sorry! On the bright side, it’s per ride price is cheaper than buying a single ticket each time you travel somewhere. And if you transfer between the metro and a bus within 75 minutes, it counts as a single journey. All this means that if you’re planning to spread out your travels over several days, this one’s a pretty smart choice.

Getting around the Barcelona metro

Now, onto the backbone of Barcelona’s transport – the metro. It’s efficient, fast, and usually the quickest way to get from A to B. 

The lines are color-coded, making it easy to follow, even if you’re terrible with maps (like yours truly). Stations are well-marked, and there are digital boards showing when the next train is due. 

To start your journey, simply validate your travel card or single ticket at the station entrance. Ta-da! You’re good to go.

Remember to explore the metro map, which will help you decipher which stops you need to reach. Keep in mind that some stations may connect to multiple lines, so plan your route accordingly.

Pro tip: during peak hours, things can get packed, so keep your belongings close (pickpockets are particularly rife at these times) and be prepared for a bit of a squeeze.

Important Metro Information

A few essential tips to keep in mind when traveling on the Barcelona metro:

• Firstly, it doesn’t run 24/7 . While it’s open till midnight on weekdays, on Fridays it’s till 2am, and on Saturdays, it runs all night. Handy for those late-night fiestas! 
• Be aware of pickpockets – keep your belongings close and remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Barcelona’s a safe city, but like in any major metropolis, it’s always smart to be cautious in crowded places. 
• Accessible stations are available for persons with disabilities – look for the wheelchair symbol on the metro map for guidance.
• If you’re traveling to or from the airport, there’s a special fare . Don’t try to use a regular T-casual ride for it, as it won’t work (although the Hola Barcelona Travel Card does!)

Avoiding pickpockets when traveling in Barcelona

Barcelona, like any other busy city, can have its share of pickpockets in crowded areas – although it can be a bit worse here than in other places, I have to say, especially in touristy areas.

But don’t worry! Just follow these simple tips to keep your belongings safe while enjoying the city:

• Be Aware : Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like metro stations, markets, and tourist hotspots. Don’t ever put your bag somewhere you can’t see it (like over the back of a chair) or where it’s not somehow attached to you – even setting it down “securely” on the seat next to you could see it disappear in the crush of a crowded metro.
• Secure Your Valuables : Keep your cash, cards, and ID in a secure money belt or neck pouch hidden under your clothes (my preferred way is a cross body bag so it’s hard for someone to pull it off me). Also, avoid using back pockets or open bags for valuable items.
• Travel Light : Carry only what you need for the day, leaving your passport, extra cash, and other items locked in your accommodations safe. If you’re going into the metro and have a backpack, wear it on your front so you can see where it is at all times.

Is Uber in Barcelona expensive?

No. Good news, you won’t break the bank getting around Barcelona with Uber! In fact, Uber is the same price as taxis in the city. However, it’s generally more expensive than Cabify, which is the more popular rideshare app in Spain.

With Uber, you can explore Barcelona at an affordable price while enjoying the comforts of a private ride.

The base fare for an UberX ride in Barcelona is €0.95, and the fare per kilometer is €1.10. There’s also a charge of €0.10 per minute when the vehicle is traveling at a speed below 10 km/h, and a booking fee of €0.35 for each ride. 

Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on factors like demand, time of day, and special promotions.

A few things to remember while using Uber in Barcelona:

• Although usually around the same price as taxis, peak hours might see a surge in pricing, so plan your travels accordingly.
• Uber might be a better choice if you need some extra assistance as drivers often help with luggage and provide door-to-door services.
• If you’re looking for an even more affordable option, consider using public transportation like buses, trams, or the metro. It’s efficient, reliable, and budget-friendly.

Is it better to Uber or taxi in Barcelona?

In Barcelona, Uber and taxis effectively work the same. This means that one isn’t better than the other as both are similar prices using the same app. Instead, in my opinion, Cabify is better than both of them.

During your stay, you’ll find that taxis are easily accessible whether you’re at the airport or just wandering the streets. The city has a well functioning taxi service, and you can even use taxi booking apps to make your rides more convenient. 

But with Cabify being cheaper and just as convenient, I’d say that it takes the cake over Uber and taxis in Barcelona.

Should I get a Barcelona public transport card?

Yes, getting a Barcelona public transport card can be a cost-effective and convenient way to explore the city. With a variety of travel cards available, you can go unlimited rides on buses and the metro. It’s a great option for those who want hassle-free travel while saving money!

The Hola Barcelona Travel Card offers unlimited travel on public transport for 2, 3, 4, or 5 days. Here are the prices for each duration:

• 48 hours (two days): €16.40 (i.e. €8.20 per day)
• 72 hours (three days): €23.80 (i.e. €7.93 per day)
• 96 hours (four days): €31 (i.e. €7.75 per day)
• 120 hours (five days): €38.20 (i.e. €7.64 per day)

For tourists who are interested in visiting museums and attractions, the Barcelona Card can be a great choice. This card combines unlimited public transport with discounts and free entry to various attractions, depending on the version you choose.

Another popular choice is the T-casual card, which is perfect for short visits or infrequent use. This card offers 10 journeys with no expiration date, although it’s for your personal use only – that is, no sharing with others in your group. 

For some, this may be enough. On the other hand, if you expect to use public transport frequently during your stay, you might want to consider a more comprehensive option like the Hola Barcelona Travel Card.

A quick tip: When visiting Barcelona, be aware that the single ticket option is relatively expensive at €2.40 per ride , making it far from the cheapest way to travel in Barcelona. Instead, it’s best to choose a travel card based on your needs.

By opting for a Barcelona public transport card, you can save your valuable time, avoid the hassle of purchasing individual tickets, and explore the city’s attractions with ease. 

So go ahead and enjoy your Barcelona adventure with the card that suits your needs best!

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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How to get around Barcelona? 9 best options (+ Yellow Vespa)

Getting around in Barcelona is fast and easy. It has one of the best public transport systems in Europe, and the city center itself is really walkable and comfortable to explore by bike.

For those wondering about the best way to get around Barcelona, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information, whether you prefer metro, bus, bike, or walking.

If you’re looking for the best way to travel in Barcelona, you’ll find that the city offers a variety of convenient options to suit different preferences and needs.

Here you can find our complete guide to spend One Week In Barcelona , including where to stay .

Even when staying right in the old town, the very city center, you need to get around somehow. Here’s my brand-new guide on beach hotels in Barcelona (with pools and roof tops).

So, what transport shall we pick? Barcelona is our home town, so we know the best ways to get around. And there are many different options to consider. We show you how to get around Barcelona the easiest, fastest and cheapest way.

We put together the numerous options of transportation. Just click on the one you’re interested in. We will walk you through its pros and cons.

Are you planning to get out of the city? Then check 33 best day trips from Barcelona and Omio.com for transport options like train and bus.

• Metro, Tram and Train
• Sightseeing Bus Touristic
• Scooter and Vespa (my favorite)
• Car (and parking)
• exception: Ferrari
• The Verdict

1. Getting around Barcelona: Metro, Tram and Train

When considering public transportation in Barcelona, you have every type of transportation to choose from. The tickets you purchase are valid for the metro, tram, and the train, if you’re not leaving the city with the train.

Within the metro system, several metro lines crisscross the city, connecting diverse neighborhoods and key attractions.

This network makes it easy to navigate Barcelona’s diverse areas. The train, however, would be the better option when planning to get out of the city or for day trips to Sitges, Gerona, or Costa Brava.

Thanks to the integrated fare system, you can seamlessly use these modes of Barcelona public transportation with a single ticket, connecting you to the entire transportation network.

For airport access, the R2 Nord train connects the city center with Terminal 2 of the airport.

For more ideas, check our list of 33 day trips from Barcelona .

Pros of the Metro :

Fast, cheap, and always available!

The metro system in Barcelona is one of the best ones we know! You will wait maximum 5 minutes during the day for the next metro.

There are many metro stations and it is easy to understand.

We recommend  purchasing a T10 Ticket which is valid for exactly 10 rides (around 10€)

It costs less than individual tickets and you can use them as a group as well. There are also daily tickets and 2-day or 3-day tickets. Those are recommended if you plan to use the metro more than 6 times a day.

Either way, on almost every entrance you will find official workers from the metro. They are used to tourism so in most of the cases they speak – at least a bit of – English to help you out.

• well-connected
• almost always available

Metro Operating Times:

The Barcelona metro operates daily starting from as early as 5.00 am. On Friday night the metro runs until 2 am. And from Saturday night to Sunday, the metro operates all night long. This is very convenient.

Here are the opening times for the metro:

• Weekdays (Monday to Thursday): until midnight.
• Fridays and public holidays: until 2.00 am at night
• Saturdays: runs all night
• Sundays and public holidays during the week until midnight

There is always a special schedule for events and festivities in the city.

Check out the schedule on the official website TMB.cat for more info.

Cons of the metro:

Thieves love to be around the metro, waiting for opportunities. Please watch your belongings in the metro, and you will be fine.

Here is a handy guide on how to stay safe in Barcelona .

Also, another con we do not really like: you’re underground, meaning you don’t see the city. This is, however, a personal opinion.

• make sure you watch your belongings, as thieves tend to come here
• faster than the bus, but underground – no view to the city

More : This video below gives you a deep insight into the metro system in Barcelona and the ticket to purchase. Give it a go.

2. Public Transport: the Bus

Taking the local bus is another great way to get from A to B.

You can get a feeling for the local life, see people rushing to their work, kids on their way to school and so on.

The buses in Barcelona are well connected and they usually leave very frequently.

However, depending on where you’ve to go, it can take a bit longer than the metro. Getting to the beach is faster though. Therefore, make sure you check the route beforehand.

There are as well night buses available. When the metro stops, you can always catch a bus. However, a Taxi might be the better option, as you don’t have to wait.

Another plus is the safety. It is less likely to get robbed in a bus other than the metro, but you still have to watch out your belongings. Therefore: It is highly recommended!

Pros in the overview:

• you see the city
• safer than metro
• night buses available

Depending on your itinerary, the public bus can be slow.

Try to avoid the bus during rush hour, meaning, don’t take the bus between 5:30 pm and 7 pm, when people finish work.

Good to know : You can buy a single ticket on the bus, but you cannot buy a T10 Ticket! The T10 ticket is a ticket for 10 rides, and you can buy it in every metro or train station. It is valid for the bus as well.

3. Hop On Hop Off Bus

The tourist bus , also known as “Hop on Hop Off Bus”, is one of the most popular ways for getting around Barcelona.

There are different routes to take around the city and you can hop on and hop off as many times as you want. Obviously, they cover all the major tourist attractions like Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Camp Nou, Ramblas and so on.

You can start taking the Bus Turistic from Placa Catalunya, the main square in the very city center.

Pros of the Bus Turistic:

For those who have little time but want to check all the touristic points of Barcelona, the turistic bus can be a good idea, as it goes straight to them.

• direct stop at the main attractions (or nearby)
• you see the city from your seat
• double decker buses with panoramic views
• interactive guides
• official Barcelona couriers on board
• restricted schedule:  from 9 am to 7/8 pm (depending on the season)
• it does not go off the beaten path
• purely touristy!

Good to know: with your ticket, you can use the different lines, check all of them. For the night turistic bus, you need a separate ticket.

4. Scooter (even better: a red Vespa!)

Jambalaya, this is our favorite – fast, affordable, fun!

Renting a scooter is quite cheap, and you can park almost everywhere around the city. You can go up the Tibidabo and Montjuic which is quite fun. You can go to the beach, hit the city afterwards, and drive to a Barca match in no time!

I wrote a big guide on scooter rental in Barcelona . It covers everything from prices, safety and rental companies.

Even better than a scooter is actually renting a beautiful red vespa. We did this. And we would always repeat it, as you’ll feel like in a vintage movie.

• fast from A to B (perfect for a 1-day trip)
• park (almost) everywhere for free
• Traffic is busy in Barcelona. Experience is recommended, although not required. Just drive slower and keep right and you will be fine.
• Make sure you park in the marked parking spots for scooters. They are basically everywhere, so don’t park in the middle of the road.

5. Getting around on two wheels: Bicycle

Eco-Friendly, fast and especially beautiful to cruise along the beach and the Passeig de Colom !

Renting a bike can be a great option to get around Barcelona.

Try to avoid the most narrowed streets in the old town and try not to run down anyone with the bike. But seriously, a bike is a fab option.

It is faster than walking and slower than sitting on a scooter. It is also really safe. There are also many different Barcelona bike tours . They are safe and guided.

• perfect for medium distances
• especially perfect to go to the beach
• Eco-friendly
• you can park everywhere
• special bicycle lanes around the city
• Safety issue: Make sure you always lock your bikes properly. The bike rental provides you a big lock, use it!
• Renting a bike overnight? Take the bike inside or park it directly at the renting shop itself. Bikes are NOT safe on Barcelona’s streets at night.

As mentioned, there are also great bike tours to join. The best bike tour we have joined is Steel Donkey Bike Tours. Their alternative bike tour takes you around the hidden gems of Barcelona, and “rides” you through the local life. Here is a guide comparing the best bike tours in Barcelona .

Check out the official website www.steeldonkeybiketours.com for prices and schedules

11.000 taxis to choose from – not too bad, right?!

The taxis are quite affordable, compared to European standard rates for Taxis. You can stop a taxi all around the city at all times. We never had any bad experiences with taxis. Actually, quite the opposite. Taxi drivers here are known for being helpful and quite knowledgeable about their city.

What about UBER? UBER is currently not legal in Barcelona, and rarely used. Best option is to go with a legal cab.

• Accessible whenever
• Accessible wherever
• safe and fast (except during the rush hour or special festivities)
• “higher cost” compared to the other options above
• avoid taxis in rush hour between 5:30 pm and 7 pm – streets are too busy, and it’ll take you longer

Walking!! Barcelona is very walk-able .

Actually, whenever I walk I discover something new. It can be a plant concept store, a new café, cool restaurants with an interesting offer on daily menus, and so on.

Exploring Barcelona on foot is a delight, especially with the array of food options available. From quaint eateries serving local delicacies to stylish bistros with gourmet dishes, every stroll becomes a culinary adventure in this city.

Some of our   best restaurants in Barcelona list were actually discovered by walking.  If I wouldn’t be so lazy, I would always walk. Be better than me!

• You discover new locations – all the time
• perfect to explore El Born, Gothic Quarter and Gracia
• Time-intense, slow
• Quite hot during summer season

Uff…a car in Barcelona is quite a hassle.

The traffic is always busy, the parking spots are super limited, and even if you manage to score on, you will have to pay for parking. Also, driving through Barcelona by car can be very slow.

For renting a car I recommend Discover Car Hire . They compare car rental companies and give you the best price. Very handy!

Therefore, if you can avoid this, do so!

• perfect for day trips outside the city. Here you find our 33 epic day trips from Barcelona
• You don’t get wet on a rainy day (well, we tried to find another plus here!)
• traffic is busy
• it’s slow inside the city
• expensive parking

9. Exception: Ferrari

For my 30th birthday, my friends gave me a very special present. Besides my surprise party, I got to drive a Ferrari for 1 hour through Barcelona. I’ve to admit, I am not a big fan of motorsport or cars, but this one was seriously awesome!

I got to drive a real Ferrari with 500 on horsepower. You can find these experiences with Airbnb.com .

When I saw the car in real-life, I got a bit nervous. But one staff member of the rental company will be your Co-Pilot, so no worries at all. He will navigate you through the city, giving you advises if you need to.

• Unique experience!
• affordable, prices starting from 90€
• none, seriously, none!

What are the best public transportation options in Barcelona?

Barcelona offers a variety of public transportation options including the metro, tram, train, and public buses. The integrated fare system allows the use of a single ticket across these modes, making it convenient to navigate the city. The metro is fast and frequent, ideal for quick travel within the city, while trains are better for day trips outside Barcelona.

How do I navigate from Barcelona's airport to the city center?

From Barcelona's airport, you have multiple options to reach the city center, including Aerobus services, trains, taxis, and rental cars. Each option offers a different balance of cost, convenience, and speed.

Is it easy to find transportation for day trips from Barcelona?

Yes, planning day trips from Barcelona is quite straightforward. You can use Omio.com to find train and bus schedules and prices for various destinations. Some popular day trip locations include Sitges, Gerona, and Costa Brava.

Are there any tips for staying safe while using Barcelona's public transport?

While using public transportation in Barcelona, it’s important to be vigilant of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like metro stations. Thieves can be present, so keeping an eye on your possessions is advised.

Can I explore Barcelona on foot?

Barcelona is highly walkable, especially in areas like El Born, the Gothic Quarter, and Gracia. Walking allows you to discover hidden gems, including local eateries and unique shops. However, it can be time-consuming, and the summer heat can be intense.

The Verdict: How to Get Around Barcelona

You see, there are plenty of options on how to travel around Barcelona.

All of them have their pros and cons.

It is not easy for us to make a generic recommendation. It always depends on your travel style, the amount of time you have and obviously your own preferences.

For active travelers, a Casual card is a travel card for public transportation is a great choice, offering multiple rides and easy sharing, ideal for combining different transit modes. Don’t get it confused with the Barcelona card. It includes unlimited access to the city’s public transportation network but also provides free entry to several museums and attractions, discounts at shops and restaurants, and even some guided tours. 

So, here I try a generic recommendation for the different traveler styles based on our experience and insights from resources like Lonely Planet:

Active traveler : For those wondering about getting around in Barcelona, I recommend the use of a scooter with walking for the more active ones. For me, Barcelona transportation is best enjoyed on a scooter, quickly zipping from the beach to iconic places like Sagrada Familia, Camp Nou, and Torre Agbar. Remember to read my guide on how to rent a scooter in Barcelona, a key element of transport in Barcelona.

Remember to read my guide on how to rent a scooter in Barcelona .

Speed Traveler : Don’t have much time? Then Bus Touristic is a perfect way to utilize public transportation in Barcelona. Safe, fast, and comfortable, it’s an excellent method to see all the sights of the Barcelona region. Start your journey from Placa Catalunya and keep your camera ready.

Day Trips from Barcelona : You have to read my 33 best day trips from Barcelona City and check Omio.com for train and bus system schedules and prices, another great source for information on transport Barcelona.

You can find all our articles and information on spending One Week In Barcelona here .

Any questions?

Do you have any preferences or things to add? We would love to get your feedback.

Leave us a comment below.

Safe travels and enjoy Barna!

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Hi Matt, Thanks for your travel blog about my favorite destination Barcelona, I do appreciate your useful recommendations about means of transportation around Barcelona and Its great that you tell us about the advantage and disadvantage for each so that we can select which will select our budget and preferences You are really talented in writing and also on topic selection

Hello Matt!

This blog was incredibly helpful and it laid out the options really well. You suggested things I hadn’t considered and I now have a very specific plan for getting around Barcelona! Thank you!

Barcelona is a wonderful place and Catalonia has a lot of charming places 🙂 Good route !!

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Barcelona By Bike: Cycle to the City's Restaurants & Hotels

What better way to discover some of Barcelona's best restaurants and hotels than by using pedal power?

Barcelona Editor's Pick Hotels Spain Sustainability

Barcelona is relatively flat, which means that most of its main streets make for pleasant cycling terrain. Whether you get around on your own two wheels or make use of either the comprehensive municipal bike rental scheme (Bicing, which has over 500 stations) or one of the various private rental services, the Mediterranean city is an attractive and extensive playground for cyclists. Thanks to a network of some 200km of cycle paths, it is easy to explore every corner of Barcelona's cosmopolitan neighborhoods, where you'll find a wonderfully wide choice of laid-back, sustainable restaurants and hotels.

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Cyclist-Friendly Dining in Sants

Committed to sustainable initiatives, such as using local and seasonal produce, reducing energy consumption and ensuring responsible waste management, the restaurant also offers cyclists a water bottle refill service free of charge, as well as a secure room in which to store their helmets and backpacks. It all adds even more appeal to the no-frills food inspired by the culinary traditions of Japan, France, and the Mediterranean. "We believe that the real magic lies in quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, such as grilling, baking, robata cooking (on Japanese charcoal grills), and marinating. Our menu is designed for sharing, so that you can enjoy a complete and enriching culinary experience in good company."

Modern Cuisine with a Catalan Flavor

'Popular cuisine full of emotions' is how they describe their cooking, which is ideal for sharing and getting to sample a good number of the delicacies that Roger and Chesco present at your table. A careful selection of Catalan wines and Cava will round off the experience, to be relished in a space designed by the owners as a restaurant promising quality cuisine for all its guests. They are mindful of sustainability, implementing practices such as using ozonated water for cleaning, reducing organic waste through the preparation of their own broths and reductions, and, of course, cooking with local ingredients.

From Barcelona to London

Easy-Access Cuisine in L'Eixample

Another restaurant in Barcelona's Eixample district, a stone's throw from Plaça d'Espanya and easily accessible by bicycle along Gran Vía, is Cruix , which invites diners to discover its fresh and fun cuisine. It is easy to get here by bike, as there is a specific lane that crosses the city from east to west, connecting different neighborhoods and important sites in the city. Chef Miquel Pardo surprises diners with his innovative tapas, signature dishes, and paella rice pans that are reminiscent of the town of Onda in Castellón, from which he hails. Seasonal and local ingredients are the hallmarks of his cuisine, presented in two tasting menus ('Cruix' and 'Grand Cruix'), in which he takes humble ingredients and transforms them into haute cuisine dishes that are ideal for sharing. Cruix also boasts a terrace, another advantage for cyclists who don't want to lose sight of their bikes.

There you have it, our round-up of restaurants and hotels that can be reached by bike in Barcelona. We would like to remind you to cycle responsibly and always to ride on the road, in bike lanes, in 30kmph zones, or on specially designated roads, as recommended by the city council. And now… let's get pedaling!

Hero Image: Cyclists in the streets of Barcelona (© GettyImages)

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25 Things to Do in Barcelona (and Avoid!) That Will Improve Your Trip

Feb 2, 2023

Regina W Bryan

Are you planning a trip to Barcelona and worried about looking like a blundering tourist? That’s natural, of course. But don’t get too hung up on this  — you’re visiting the city and taking in its biggest sights. You’re allowed to look like a tourist!

As a traveler in a new culture, it will be really hard, if not impossible, to look “local” so why not just be comfortable and go with the flow? (However, this doesn’t mean wandering La Rambla with three cameras tied around your neck wearing socks and sandals — there are limits! )

However,  acting like a tourist is a different subject. We’re here to help you overcome some common mistakes that tourists make when visiting Barcelona, from spending too much time on La Rambla to trying to eat at 6 p.m.

Related: • How to navigate Barcelona’s most popular attractions •   10 Best cheap hotels in Barcelona

25 Things to do in Barcelona & Avoid!

Follow our lead and you’ll be acting (and eating) like a local in no time!

1. Do try to learn a few words in Spanish and Catalan.

Por favor , gracias and bon dia go a long way.

2. Do try to adhere to local customs and schedules.

Remember that Spaniards eat late and that many shops will be closed midday for lunch and on Sundays.

3. Don’t get too political.

It’s fine to ask locals their opinion on Catalan independence, but be careful if you’re voicing very pro-Catalonia or pro-Spain opinions. You might end up offending those around you and find yourself in a heated debate or fight.

Late dinner means more time for snacking on tapas beforehand! Photo: Craig Nelson

Eating & drinking

4. Don’t eat on La Rambla if you can avoid it.

We’ve been over this many times before , but it’s worth mentioning again.

5. Do visit Barcelona’s wine bars.

Head to these spots to sip reds and whites from all over Spain.

6. Don’t tip 20% on your restaurant bill.

Tipping is not common in Spain. If you want to leave something, leave your change or a couple of euros.

7. Do take a cooking class.

Learn how to make Catalan dishes and Spanish classics like paella .

8. Don’t try to go to dinner at 6 p.m.

Any respectable restaurant won’t even open the doors until 8 p.m. (Here are 18 tips for eating like a local in Barcelona .)

9. Do eat delicious tapas.

They will get you over the 6 p.m. hump and tide you over until your late Spanish dinner.

10. Do visit the famous Boqueria Market, but…

Also visit Barcelona’s lesser-known markets, all of which will be less crowded. Santa Caterina is a good option.

11. Don’t order paella for dinner.

It’s a lunch dish considered too heavy for a late meal.

A shop selling Spanish jamón in La Boqueria Market. Photo: Jessica Spengler

12. Don’t take photos in shops or at market stands unless you’ve asked permission.

Fortunately, most of the time, the vendors will say yes.

13. Do shop for exquisite Spanish shoes and clothing .

Looking for Zara, Mango, etc.? Head to the Gothic Quarter around Portal de l’Àngel and Carrer Comtal.

14. Do score deep discounts during the twice-annual city-wide sales.

They’re held in Barcelona in January/February and July/August .

15. Don’t buy souvenirs on La Rambla.

Look for locally made goodies to take home on side-streets off La Rambla.

16. Do check out museum stores.

They offer a great selection of books on Barcelona and artsy souvenirs crafted in Barcelona.

The spectacular Park Güell designed by Gaudí. Photo: Jorge Franganillo on Flickr

Sightseeing

17. Do pay the entrance fee to see La Sagrada Família.

It’s Barcelona’s most important sight and there is a reason for this — it’s stunning! Cough up the entrance fee and spend a few hours inside gawking at Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. (And do get tickets online and skip the wait. Read all of our tips for visiting Sagrada Familia .)

18. Don’t go to Park Güell if you’re short on time.

It’s a bit of trek to get up to Park Güell that can easily eat up most of the day. Stick to Gaudí sights in the city center if you’ve only got a couple of days.

19. Do rent a bike.

Ride along Barcelona’s beachfront boardwalk from La Barceloneta to Llevant beach. Stop along the way for lunch at a seaside eatery.

20. Don’t spend all your time on La Rambla.

It’s tempting to spend too much time with the human statues, cheesy vendors and crowds of tourists. But do walk down La Rambla at least once and stop in to see La Boqueria Market.

21. Do take a tour of the Gothic Quarter.

Get an in-depth look at what Barcelona was like in Roman times.

22. Don’t confine yourself to Barcelona’s city limits.

Consider a day trip to Girona to wander its medieval lanes, Figueres to see the Salvador Dalí Museum, or the Penedès region for wine tasting.

Hostal Fernando offers a central location and rooms for every budget. Photo: EuroCheapo

23. Don’t try to save money by staying at an out-of-the-way hotel.

It’s worth it to spend a little more to be central . You’ll save time and money getting to popular sights, and it will be easier to walk home at night. Check out these affordable hotels near Barcelona’s most popular attractions.

24. Do make sure your hotel has a safe in the room or at the reception desk.

Leave your passport, extra cash and credit cards, and anything else of value that you will not need on you in the safe. Here are 10 tips for staying safe in Barcelona.

25. Don’t pay for an expensive hotel breakfast at your hotel.

Instead, head to the nearest cafe and eat breakfast like a local for about $5 (coffee and a small sandwich or pastry).

Finally, do come to Barcelona with an open mind and flexible itinerary.

Travel is tricky and things may not pan out the way you planned. It could rain, a museum could be closed for remodeling, or the taxi drivers could go on strike.

However, good things can crop up too, and it’s rewarding to be able to spot these opportunities when they surface and embrace them. A restaurant owner offers you something that’s not on the menu, and it turns out to be the best meal of your life. A local invites you over to their condo for coffee, and you make a new friend. A wrong turn takes you down a winding alleyway with unique bars and boutiques.

The unplanned can many times be the best part of the journey — embrace it!

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About the author.

About the author: Regina W.Bryan is a Barcelona-based freelance writer and photographer. When not eating tapas and exploring Europe, she is tending her balcony veggie garden and practicing Catalan. For more of her thoughts on Spain, check: www.regwb.com and www.thespainscoop.com .

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7 thoughts on “25 Things to Do in Barcelona (and Avoid!) That Will Improve Your Trip”

such a stunning view

At La Boqueria they sell awesome combinations of blended fruit drinks. Our tip is to walk past the stalls at the front of the market and head to the second and third rows of stalls. You’ll find the same drinks, except they’re quite a bit cheaper than the stalls at the front of the market.

Barcelona’s La Boqueria should perhaps come with a health warning because there’s so much to-die-for food & treats wherever you look! 😋 😂

Would it be better to fly there, rent car Or bike or tour guide by bus?? Or fly in and stay 3 days at least then jump cruise ship and when coming back to Barcelona, fly to Madrid for a few days. Also – rent scooter, tour guide or bicycle rental and wing it?!

Just spent 3 months traveling in Barcelona, San Sebastian, Paris and Italy. Two items about Barcelona bothered me: 1) The processing of restaurant and hotel bills in “Dollars” rather than “Euros” without your consent. This adds 3% fees and poor exchange rates to the transaction. Always start a payment with “En Euros, por favor.” This fee driven larceny does not exist in Paris or Italy. 2) Change money using banks without fees. Some local banks charge 3% of the transaction. When you see a fee like this just cancel the transaction. Deutsch Bank does not add fees.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on Barcelona. That’s a good tip for avoiding those pesky 3% fees!

Really helpful list. Thanks for sharing. I am going to Barcelona for 5 days in April and have been reading a lot of Barcelona posts. It sounds like a wonderful city and I am very much looking forward to it. I will try to incorporate some of your recommendations into my trip. safe travels!

Good list. Also don’t miss the Gothic Quartier!

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7 creative ways hot destinations are combating overtourism, from obstructing views to etiquette violation fines

• Popular vacation spots are actively deterring tourists to combat overtourism.
• Local governments are issuing tourist curfews and blocking Instagram hot spots.
• Locals are protesting mass tourism and creating street art with messaging to keep tourists away. 

Too many tourists visit the world's  hottest destinations, from Italy to Amsterdam and Barcelona. As a result, locals regularly endure massive crowds, traffic jams, and increased living costs.

Travel sustainability experts previously told Business Insider that overtourism negatively impacts destinations. People love to visit historic cities in Europe and popular national parks around the US , but these places simply weren't built to serve the millions of travelers going there during peak seasons.

It's gotten so bad that popular vacation spots are actively trying to deter visitors rather than attract them.

Destinations use several tactics to curb tourists, from charging fees and limiting visitors to implementing reservation systems and banning large cruise ships .

However, local governments and residents of some hot spots have incorporated more unique strategies to keep tourists away .

In some destinations, residents take matters into their own hands with protests.

Barcelona locals and activism groups took to the streets earlier this month to protest overtourism in their city, which had 15.6 million tourists last year, according to the Barcelona Tourism Observatory . They marched and chanted with signs telling tourists to go home, blocked hotels and restaurants with tape, and sprayed water guns at travelers in public spaces.

In October 2023, a similar protest took place in Hallstatt, Austria , a village many believe inspired Disney's "Frozen." BI previously reported that locals held up signs while blocking a tunnel on the town's main road. Though there are just 700 residents, BBC reported that the destination sees up to 10,000 tourists daily during the busy season.

Local street artists bring the overtourism message into public spaces.

Some protesters in Barcelona created street art and graffiti to deter tourists, the Huffington Post reported on July 11 . Messages like "It's Tourist Hunting Season" are scattered in public spaces, from stickers on light posts to spray paint on building facades.

And they're not the only ones.

In Nice, France, an anonymous artist who goes by TooLate creates unique sculptures to deter tourists in public spaces, they told Business Insider in an Instagram message.

For example, in 2023, TooLate created a gigantic mouse trap with an ice-cream cone to attract tourists' attention and placed it on Nice's Promenade des Anglais, as seen on the artist's Instagram .

The purpose of the art is "to raise awareness among passers-by and challenge the authorities," TooLate told BI. "Overtourism on the Mediterranean coast is a real scourge for the environment, not to mention pollution, overconsumption of water, lack of housing for locals — the list is long."

Popular beach destinations in Europe fine tourists for etiquette violations.

On the Spanish island of Mallorca, locals are frustrated with the millions of tourists who visit each year — particularly regarding how they dress off the beach.

Since some tourists tend to stroll through the towns in nothing but bathing suits, the municipality issues fines of up to 500 euros, or about $650, for being shirtless in the streets, the Daily Mail reported in May .

In June 2023, The Standard reported that in Portugal, where locals were annoyed by visitors blasting music at beaches, the National Maritime Authority banned speakers at popular coastlines.

According to the outlet, disrupted beachgoers were encouraged to contact local authorities, and violators who were by themselves faced fines between 200 and 4,000 euros, or about $220 to $4,350. Group fines ranged from 2,000 to 36,000 euros, or about $2,180 to $39,200 (you read that right).

Italy banned sitting and eating in some public spaces.

Italian governments have measures in place to mitigate tourist crowds. In 2017, Rome banned eating near public fountains . Two years later, the city began issuing fines of up to 400 euros, or about $440, for sitting, eating, or drinking on the Spanish Steps .

Florence also issues fines for eating outside near shops of 500 euros, or about $545, BI previously reported.

The country is also taking action against selfies.

Destinations have been discouraging visitors from stopping to take photos for years. Instagramable hot spots are often crowded with tourists waiting to get their selfies while blocking traffic.

Last summer, Portofino, Italy, started fining people up to 275 euros, or about $300, for stopping to take selfies in designated "no-wait zones" at crowded attractions,  BBC reported .

Some countries have even put up walls to block Instagram-worthy views.

After taking a selfie in front of a particular convenience store with a jaw-dropping view of Mount Fuji gained traction on social media, the town of Fujikawaguchiko, Japan, put up a barrier to block the view and deter tourists, BI reported in April.

It's not the first time local governments have taken such a drastic measure. In Austria's "Frozen" village, Hallstatt, a temporary wall went up last summer to obstruct a popular tourist photo stop and ultimately curb tourists. It's unclear if the wall was still in place as of Friday.

Destinations are also experimenting with curfews for tourists.

In South Korea, Seoul set a curfew specifically for non-residents in Bukchon Hanok Village , a tourist hot spot with only 6,000 locals and thousands of daily visitors, CNN reported on July 11 .

Beginning in October, tourists will have a curfew from 5 p.m. to 10 a.m.

In Spain, the town of Binibeca Vell on Menorca has 1,000 residents, who, according to Euro News , have to deal with the island's 800,000 annual tourists crowding the streets, entering their homes, and leaving trash in public spaces.

While the town's government has not enacted a curfew, a local homeowners association representing 195 households began requesting in May that tourists stay away between 8 p.m. and 11 a.m.

These unique strategies, from local activism to government regulation, show how mass tourism drastically overwhelms the world's favorite destinations.

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