BARCELONA TRAVEL GUIDE
Barcelona, located in the northeastern region of Spain, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the iconic works of Antoni Gaudí to the bustling streets of Las Ramblas, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful city. Whether you're interested in exploring the local cuisine, soaking up the sun on the beach, or immersing yourself in the art and culture of Catalonia, Barcelona has something for everyone.
I have been lucky enough to visit Barcelona 3 times for a total of 30 days. I love everything about it and Spain. I have walked around every quarter in the city center and seen the most famous Barcelona sights many times, and I did it because it is impossible not to fall in love with this beautiful city.
In my Barcelona Guide, you will find everything you need to know, see, do, eat, and drink to make sure your travel to Barcelona will be a success you will remember for the rest of your life.
Let's explore Barcelona together...
Are you in?
I honestly believe that Barcelona is a city that every traveler should visit at least once.
If you plan a trip to Barcelona, you may wonder how many days you should spend in this vibrant city. While it depends on your interests and schedule, most travelers recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Barcelona to fully experience its rich culture, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine.
If you decide to spend one week in Barcelona, you will have time to explore most of the important places.
Starting from all Gaudi's works, museums of many famous artists, and all the districts in the city center.
Enjoy the delicious Spanish cuisine from tapas bars, Catalan restaurants, and Barcelona markets full of fresh and delicious food.
Eat paella at a nice restaurant on the beachside, and drink a glass of Cava in one of the oldest bars in the city in the Barrio Gotico.
Take hundred of pictures walking in the Ravel district and its street art during the day, but avoid it at night.
Walk to the top of the Montjuic to enjoy one of the city's best views and walk around the Parc Guell for half a day. And maybe do some shopping before dancing all night in one of its many clubs.
In my opinion, if you have more time to spare, there is definitely no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful Spanish city.
One weekend will not be enough because there is too much to see and do.
I think the perfect time to spend in Barcelona is one week or even two if you wish to spend quality time at the beach and do some day trips outside the city.
Barcelona is a popular city in Spain, so I highly recommend avoiding visiting it during July and August because it can be extremely crowded and hot.
That means waiting in line for hours to see a museum (always buy a skip-the-line ticket) in very high temperatures. It is not ideal for spending a holiday standing under the sun, waiting and sweating (or at least, I hate it!).
For this reason, the best seasons to visit Barcelona are Spring and Autumn. Winters can be cold and rainy, so not really the best weather to walk all day outdoors.
I visited Barcelona in May, June, and at the end of August. May and June were perfect, but August was a crazy idea.
It was so hot that I could not stay out after lunchtime because I felt dizzy. If the hot temperature is not a problem for you, go ahead, but keep in mind that museums will be crowded and everything will be extra expensive.
There will be fewer tourists in spring and autumn, and the temperature will be very pleasant. You can explore all day and party all night. Lines to visit museums are not long, and you can pop into a restaurant without booking it one month in advance.
Winter temperature (from November to March): from 5° / 41 F to 13° / 58 F
Spring temperature (from April to June): from 9° / 49 F and to 24° / 75 F
Summer temperature (from June to September); from 17° / 63 F to 28° / 82 F
Autumn temperature (from September to November): from 8° / 46 F to 20° / 68 F.
WHEN TO VISIT BARCELONA
Planning a trip to Barcelona?
Here are the best tips to help you make the most of your first-time visit to this vibrant city!
extra info
Is Barcelona safe to visit? Barcelona is pretty safe like every Spanish city, but I advise carrying an antitheft purse or backpack like in every tourist area.
The districts to avoid walking alone at night are El Barrio Gotico and El Raval, but if you are with other people, there should not be any problem.
Is Barcelona expensive? There are plenty of Tapas Bar to enjoy a delicious meal as locals do at the cost of 10/15 euros with a drink.
Is it easy to find Wifi in Barcelona? Wifi is available in almost every bar and restaurant and, of course, in every hotel.
Which is the Time Zone in Barcelona? Spain lies in the Central European Time Zone, which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +1).
basic knowledge
What is the currency in Barcelona? The currency is Euro.
What is the language in Barcelona?
The primary language spoken is Catalan, but they also speak Spanish.
Are Credit Cards accepted, and is it easy to find ATMs?
Atm and card payment are available almost everywhere; only in some market stalls is the cash required.
Which Plugs and Voltage do they use in Barcelona?
The plugs in Spain are Type C, F, and L. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter and for hair tools, never forget a converter.
move around barcelona
Barcelona is a vibrant city with plenty of transportation options for travelers.
The metro system is extensive, with eight lines that can take you anywhere you need to go. But be aware of pickpockets almost everywhere. If you're on a budget, a single metro ticket costs 2,40€, but a T-10 Card, which is good for 10 rides, only costs 11.35€.
Taxis are a fast way to move in Barcelona, they are yellow and black, so you can't miss them. The metered fare is the amount you'll be charged, and Barcelona's taxis are known to be some of the cheapest in Europe.
By Bike or Walking: For those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, Barcelona is a great city to do so. The city is very walkable, and you can rent a bike on every big street. Walking and biking are great ways to burn all the calories after eating a lot of tapas and drinking Spanish wine.