Barcelona - Discovering Spain

Travelling to Barcelona

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Barcelona, a pretty good destination in Spain (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Barcelona and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Barcelona, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Spain, here's everything to know about Barcelona for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Barcelona

Barcelona is a vibrant city located on the northeastern coast of Spain. It is the capital city of the Catalonia region and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, delicious food, and lively nightlife. Some of the top attractions in Barcelona include the stunning Sagrada Familia cathedral, Park Guell, the Gothic Quarter, and the famous La Rambla street. The city is also home to several museums, including the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miro Foundation. With its sunny weather and friendly locals, Barcelona is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

What to visit in Barcelona

1. Sagrada Familia - a world-famous Roman Catholic church designed by Antoni Gaudi and known for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate architecture. It is still under construction after 136 years.
2. Park Guell - another masterpiece by Gaudi, this park is a garden complex that features stunning structures, colorful mosaics, and panoramic views of Barcelona.
3. La Rambla - a bustling boulevard that stretches from Plaça Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus monument. It is lined with shops, cafes, street performers and is considered the heart of Barcelona.
4. Casa Batllo - a unique house designed by Gaudi that features a distinctive skeletal look, wavy facade, colorful glass elements & is known as one of the most creative designs in Barcelona.
5. Gothic Quarter - an area of medieval streets and buildings with some buildings dating back to the Roman times. The Gothic Quarter is a charming neighbourhood with beautiful buildings, churches, and museums.
6. Camp Nou Football Stadium - the home ground of FC Barcelona, one of the most famous soccer clubs in the world. It can seat over 99,000 spectators and has awe-inspiring facilities.
7. Picasso Museum - the museum has the greatest collection of artworks by the famous Spanish painter Pablo Picasso. It houses over 3,500 of his works, including paintings, sculptures, and graphic pieces.
8. Magic Fountain of Montjuic - a large fountain in the Montjuic neighbourhood that presents a light and music show on most nights. It is free to attend and considered to be one of the most mesmerizing attractions in Barcelona. 9. Casa Amatller - a beautiful modernist building from the late 19th century designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, located just beside Casa Batllo in Passeig de Gracia. 10. Park de la Ciutadella - a large public park in the centre of Barcelona that's often filled with people sunbathing, strolling, and picnicking. The park is well-manicured and houses some interesting monuments and a zoo.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Spain, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Barcelona.

When to go on holiday to Barcelona

The best time to visit Barcelona is during the months of May-June and September-October. During these months, the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months of July and August. However, do keep in mind that Barcelona is a popular destination and there will still be crowds during these months. If you are looking to avoid crowds entirely, then the winter months of December-February are a good option, but the weather may be cooler and rainier.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Barcelona

There are several ways to get to Barcelona, depending on your starting point and preferences. Here are some options: 1. By plane: Barcelona has one of the busiest airports in Europe, the Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), which is served by many major airlines. You can take a direct flight to BCN from many cities around the world. From the airport, there are several transportation options to get to the city center, including metro, bus, and taxi.
2. By train: If you are traveling from other cities in Europe, taking a train to Barcelona might be a good option. Barcelona has two main train stations, Sants and França, which are connected to many other cities in Spain and Europe.
3. By car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and drive to Barcelona. The city is well-connected to other cities in Spain by highways, and there are several parking options in the city.
4. By bus: Taking a bus to Barcelona is also a viable option, especially if you are traveling from other cities in Spain or nearby countries like France. There are several bus companies that offer routes to Barcelona, such as ALSA and Flixbus.
No matter how you choose to get to Barcelona, make sure to plan and book ahead for the best prices and availability.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Barcelona, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Barcelona

Barcelona is famous for its delicious and diverse cuisine, influenced by both Catalan and Spanish traditions. Here are some typical foods you should try: 1. Paella - A rice dish cooked with seafood, chicken, or rabbit, flavored with saffron and other spices.
2. Tapas - Small plates of food that are meant to be shared. Some typical kinds of tapas include patatas bravas (potatoes with a spicy sauce), croquetas (fried, breadcrumb-coated rolls filled with ham or cheese), and tortilla española (a thick omelette made with potatoes and onions).
3. Escalivada - A simple dish made of roasted peppers, eggplant, and onions, traditionally served with bread and olive oil.
4. Canelons - A baked pasta dish filled with ground meat and covered with a creamy béchamel sauce.
5. Fideuà - Similar to Paella, this dish is made with short noodles instead of rice.
6. Butifarra - A type of Catalan sausage made with pork. It's often served grilled or fried, alongside potatoes or white beans.
7. Crema Catalana - A sweet, custard dessert made with milk, sugar, and egg yolks, flavored with cinnamon and lemon.
8. Churros - A classic Spanish dessert consisting of long, fluffy doughnuts that are fried and dusted with sugar.
9. Bombas - A kind of croquette filled with mashed potatoes and seasoned ground meat, served with a sauce made of garlic and chilies.
10. Pan con Tomate - A staple dish of bread rubbed with freshly cut tomato and drizzled with olive oil and salt.
Consider trying some of these dishes when you visit Barcelona. Enjoy your trip!
You can find general info about typical foods in Spain here.

Is Barcelona an expensive destination for tourists?

Barcelona can be an expensive destination for tourists, but it depends on your travel style and budget. Accommodation, dining, and transportation costs can be quite high in popular areas like the Gothic Quarter or Las Ramblas. However, there are plenty of opportunities to save money by researching budget-friendly options, like staying in a hostel or Airbnb, shopping for groceries and cooking your own meals, or using public transportation instead of taxis. It's also worth noting that prices can vary throughout the year, with high season (June-August) generally being more expensive than shoulder or low season. So, with some savvy planning, you can enjoy all the amazing sights and experiences that Barcelona has to offer without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Barcelona

The best areas to find accommodation in Barcelona to visit the city are the Gothic Quarter, El Born and El Raval, which are centrally located and offer easy access to the city's tourist attractions. Other popular areas to consider are Eixample, Gracia, and Barceloneta, which are also well connected and have their own distinct charms. Ultimately, the choice of area will depend on your budget, preferences, and travel plans.
You can check hotel prices at Barcelona here:
Booking.com

Is Barcelona a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Barcelona is considered a safe place for tourists. Like any other city, there might be some issues with pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded tourist areas, but if you take normal precautions such as keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings, you should be fine. It is always a good idea to research the specific areas you plan to visit and take precautions accordingly. The Spanish police are generally very helpful and can assist you if needed.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Spain here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Barcelona.

What type of travelers will enjoy Barcelona the most?

Barcelona is a great destination for many types of travelers. Couples will love the city's romantic settings and scenic beauty. From the Gothic Quarter to the Park Guell, there are plenty of stunning places to explore with your significant other. Barcelona also has a vibrant food scene, with amazing restaurants and endless opportunities to taste delicious Spanish wine and tapas.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy the city's lively nightlife, beaches, and music festivals. Barcelona is known for its clubs, bars, and beachfront clubs where you can dance until the morning hours.
Families can also enjoy a fantastic trip to Barcelona. The city has many attractions for all ages such as the Barcelona Zoo, Aquarium, Tibidabo amusement park, and many playgrounds. Families can also enjoy the beautiful parks and public spaces that are scattered all over the city.
In short, Barcelona has something for everyone, no matter what your interests, age, or travel style.

How to get around Barcelona

There are several transportation options that you can use to move around Barcelona: 1. Metro - Barcelona has an extensive metro system that covers most areas of the city.
2. Bus - The bus network in Barcelona is also quite extensive and operates around the clock.
3. Tram - Trams are available in some parts of the city, providing a slower and more scenic option for transport.
4. Taxi - Taxis are readily available and easy to hail on the streets of Barcelona.
5. Bicycle - Barcelona has a public bicycle rental system called Bicing, as well as numerous bike rental shops.
6. Walking - Barcelona is a pedestrian-friendly city, and walking can be an enjoyable and practical way to explore many areas.

What to see around Barcelona

Sure, here are some suggestions for day trips from Barcelona: 1. Montserrat: A stunning mountain with a monastery perched on the top. You can hike, take a cable car or a train to reach the monastery.
2. Girona: A lovely little medieval town with narrow streets, historical buildings, and a unique Jewish quarter.
3. Sitges: A picturesque coastal town with beautiful beaches and impressive architecture.
4. Tarragona: A city with Roman ruins, medieval structures, beaches, and excellent seafood.
5. Costa Brava: A region with stunning coastal landscapes, picturesque coves, and beaches.
6. Figueres: Visit the Salvador Dali Museum, a museum dedicated to the surrealist artist Salvador Dali.
7. Vic: A charming town with a gothic cathedral and a traditional market.
8. Cadaques: A quaint coastal town famous for its white houses and crystal clear water. It was one of Picasso's favorite spots.
9. Rupit: A lovely little town with stone houses and narrow streets nestled in the mountains.
10. Besalu: A medieval town with a spectacular Romanesque bridge and a Jewish quarter.
For every travel information about Spain you can click here.

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