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Plan Your Barcelona Holiday: Best of Barcelona

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Explore Barcelona

When it comes to history, art, and architecture, Barcelona delivers. There’s Gaudí’s iconic Basílica de la Sagrada Familia, the Picasso Museum, and the Gothic Quarter. But look beyond the landmarks and busy mercados and you’ll notice how nature steals the show—the city’s literally surrounded by it. On one side you’ve got three miles of gorgeous sandy beaches that give the neighbouring Balearic Islands a run for their money, and on the other, the Serra de Collserola mountains, home to Parc de Collserola—one of the biggest city parks in the world. It’s probably why bike culture’s big here: Over 180 miles of bike lanes make it easy to get around the Catalan capital. Spend a low-key afternoon cruising the revamped La Rambla (you’ll have to walk your bike once you hit the pedestrian-only drag) and stop for tapas and sangria. You can really do it all and we’ve got more ideas below.
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Travel Advice

The perfect three days in Barcelona

From street markets to masterpieces
Read on

All about Gaudi

You can’t come to Barcelona without checking out architect Antoni Gaudi’s incredible works. The architect became one of the icons of modern art in the late 19th and early 20th century—and I fell in love with his surreal designs for churches, mansions, and even parks across the city. Here’s my hit list of my favourite spots to take in his genius.
Meena Thiruvengadam, Chicago, IL
  • Basílica de la Sagrada Familia
    167,070
    This elaborate Art Nouveau church—Gaudi’s most legendary landmark—is still unfinished more than a century after the work began. But it has come a long way in the decade since I first visited. On my latest trip, I joined an exclusive after-hours tour, which gave me the time and space to truly appreciate what makes this place so special.
  • Park Güell
    78,201
    This city park is part urban green space, part architectural gem—it looks like something out of a Modernist fairy tale. My advice: Book a ticket online for one of the last available entry times. I spent about an hour wandering the grounds and taking in the city views. Don’t miss the Gaudi House Museum in the park, where he lived for nearly 20 years.
  • Casa Milà - La Pedrera
    23,998
    Also known as La Pedrera, this was the last private apartment building that Gaudi designed. I took a pre-opening tour that allowed me to beat the crowds. Walking through the space (plus a couple of restored apartments) felt like a stroll through the past and gave a taste of what it might have been like to call this Modernist building home.
  • Ciutadella Park
    520
    This may be Gaudi’s only waterfall, and you’ll find it just beyond the Passeig de Pujades entrance to Parc de la Ciutadella, which was Barcelona’s only city park until the mid-19th century. Gaudi worked mostly behind the scenes on this project, helping engineer its water tank and hydraulics. Look for the two stone medallions emblazoned with lizards near the top of the fountain—inspired by the Trevi Fountain in Rome.
  • Casa Vicens Gaudí
    2,562
    This Modernist building doesn’t get the same attention as Casa Batllo and Casa Mila, but it’s worth seeing. Built in the late 1800s, this was one of Gaudi’s first major projects, and his unique spin on this Orientalist structure caused a stir when it opened. You can buy tickets that can be used at any time on a specific day, making it ideal for spontaneous travellers like myself.
  • Casa Batlló
    58,845
    A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of Gaudi’s best-known residential projects. Gaudi was brought in to remodel the building in 1904. I bought tickets to visit on my own before opening. In my opinion, the interior doesn’t offer as much to see as Casa Mila, but it’s a treat to see the view from the other side of the building’s iconic stained-glass windows.
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Barcelona Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Barcelona

sophieloumarren

Do not be afraid to get lost in the winding back streets! Ditch your tourist map!

BobKatUSA

Barcelona is deeply proud of its Catalan heritage. I once went to the tourism office to ask for information about Spain and was roundly chastised as I was in Catalunya. I never made that mistake again!

Michael B

It is a good idea to learn a few basic Spanish words for politeness and you will garner more respect and pleasant service.

RenginKoOz

Food, Art, Beach, Streets...Barcelona is all-inclusive.

Peter K

Barcelona is a city rich with history, beautiful architecture, a cool beach culture, friendly people and some great food.

Alice

Barcelona is a buzzing city that's so easy to fall in love with.

What is the best way to get there?

flying

Barcelona is mainly served by the Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport International Airport, but can also be reached by transport links from other regional airports, including Girona, Reus, and Lleida-Alguaire.

train

Barcelona Sants Station is the city's main railway station for national and international destinations in France.

bus

Estació d'autobusos Barcelona Nord is Barcelona's main bus station operating services to other Spanish cities and cities throughout Europe.

Do I need a visa?

Spain is part of the Schengen Area with many other European countries. This means tourists from certain countries don’t require a visa for trips less than 90 days — as long as your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date. Find more information about the Schengen Visa and what countries are exempt here.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer (June to August) and fall (September to November): Summer is fiesta time in Barcelona, when the city hosts some of Europe’s biggest music festivals, including Sonar and Primavera Sound. Average temperatures in summer have a high of 82°F (28°C) and a low of 71°F (22°C).

While soaring temperatures send summer visitors to the beach, the cooler months of fall are ideal for exploring Barcelona’s colorful neighborhoods. In November, the scent of roasting chestnuts fills the air during the Catalan festival of La Castanyada. Average temperatures in fall have a high of 68°F (20°C) and a low of 60°F (16°C).

Get around

bicycle

There are a number of companies in Barcelona that offer bike rental or bike tours including Barcelona Biking, AJO Bike, and Barcelona E-Bike.

train

The Barcelona Metro, run by TMB and FGC, operates 12 lines which run from about 5 a.m. to midnight Sunday to Thursday, 5 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday, and 24 hours on Saturday.

bus

TMB operates a fleet of more than 1,000 buses that operate more than 100 routes. Most services begin between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. and end between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. Barcelona also operates a night-bus service (Nit Bus) which serves most of the city and its suburban area. Services begin after 11 p.m. and end between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m.

taxis

Barcelona’s taxis are easily spotted with their black and yellow livery. They can be caught from one of many taxi stands, hailed on the street, or booked via telephone.

rideshare

The ridesharing company Cabify is available in Barcelona on your smartphone.

On the ground

What is the timezone?

Central European Standard Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Spain is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. Wall outlets typically accommodate plugs with two round pins.

What is the currency?

The Euro.

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Yes.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes.

Is it easy to find a bank?

Yes.

How much do I tip?

Tipping isn't obligatory, but people usually leave 5% if they are satisfied with the service.

Are there local customs I should know?

Drinking

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Greetings

Spaniards usually greet friends and strangers alike with a kiss on both cheeks, although two males rarely do this.

Dress

Spaniards take great pride in their appearance so dress elegantly, even for casual occasions.

Visiting churches

Visiting churches as a tourist during Mass and other worship services is considered disrespectful.

Personal space and eye contact

Spaniards are known to stand very close while talking and speak a lot with their hands — don’t mimic them and don’t step away. Eye contact in Spain is also very important.

Language

Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will go a long way as a sign of respect.

Barcelona travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Public Transport Overview

According to forum posts, Barcelona boasts an extensive and efficient public transport system including buses, metros, and regional trains. These options are integrated under a single fare system, making it easy and economical to navigate the city.

Transport Cards

Travelers have highlighted the convenience of transport cards like the T-Casual and T-Familiar. The T-Casual card offers 10 trips for a single user, while the T-Familiar allows for 8 trips that can be shared among multiple users, ideal for groups or families.

Bus and Metro Accessibility

Some users mentioned that most metro stations are equipped with elevators, making them accessible for older individuals or those with mobility issues. Buses are also a viable option, though they might be crowded during peak hours. For direct routes without the need to navigate stairs or crowded spaces, taxis provide a reasonable alternative and are readily available throughout the city.

Night Transport

For late-night travel, forum posts suggest the availability of night buses like the N16, N17, and N18, which connect to other night routes at central hubs such as Pl. Catalunya. This provides a continuous option for transportation even during off-peak hours.

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Popular Attractions

According to forum posts, popular tourist attractions in Barcelona include the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, and Parc Güell. The Gothic Quarter and Palace of Catalan Music are also highly recommended.

Modernist Sites

Some travelers mentioned that the most important sights in Barcelona are the Modernist sites, which include the works of Gaudí and Lluís Domènech. Prebooking for the Sagrada Familia Basilica, the Palau de la Música Catalana, Park Güell, and the Picasso Museum is suggested to avoid long lines.

Additional Recommendations

For many users, the Barcelona Cathedral and various markets like La Boqueria add to the city's charm. The Montjuïc and Poblenou cemeteries are noted for their photogenic sculptures, appealing to those interested in photography and history.

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Hotel Recommendations

Some travelers recommended Hotel Europark for its cleanliness, well-maintained rooms, and convenient location in the Eixample district, close to bars and restaurants yet far enough for a quiet stay. Hotel Regencia Colon was also suggested for its proximity to various attractions and transportation facilities, making it convenient for those with mobility issues.

User Preferences

For a more upscale experience, users have discussed staying in areas like Eixample, which is known for its shops and restaurants and still provides a quiet environment suitable for those who are not interested in nightlife. Travelers have called out the importance of location with easy access to public transport and central attractions to enhance their stay in Barcelona.

Alternative Lodging Options

Despite the focus on hotels, some users discussed the possibility of using apartments if specific amenities, such as balconies, are desired, especially when hotel prices are high or availability is limited during peak times.

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Nightlife Preferences

Some travelers inquired about nightlife options suitable for various age groups and interests. For those looking for scenic bars with a good atmosphere, areas around the Gothic Quarter and near the Arc de Triomf were recommended. Clubs that aren't dominated by very young crowds and loud music, such as those offering salsa dancing, were also sought after.

Location Specifics

According to forum posts, central Barcelona, including neighborhoods like El Born, La Ribera, and L'Eixample, offers a concentration of nightlife options. These areas are praised for their vibrant atmosphere and accessibility. Placa Reial was specifically mentioned as a lively spot, especially for those staying near Las Ramblas.

Nightlife Tips

Travelers have suggested visiting bars and clubs that open later in the evening, around 9 or 10 PM, and become busier as the night progresses. It's recommended to explore these areas during the day to identify potential spots to visit in the evenings. For a more relaxed experience, bars where conversation is possible without loud music were also highlighted.

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Official Website Purchases

According to forum posts, the most reliable way to purchase FC Barcelona game tickets is directly from the FC Barcelona official website. This method ensures authenticity and avoids the high fees and risks associated with resellers.

Physical Purchase Options

Some travelers suggested that if they are unable to purchase online, tickets can also be bought at the official FC Barcelona stores around the city or at the stadium's ticket office on the day of the game. This provides a fallback option if online purchases are not possible.

Member Sales and General Public Sales

For many users, it's important to note that tickets typically go on sale to FC Barcelona members first and are later available to the general public. Keeping track of the sale phases can increase the chances of securing a ticket.

Alternative Matches

If experiencing difficulties in purchasing tickets for high-demand matches, forum users recommended considering attending matches of lesser-known teams like RCD Espanyol or C.E. Europa for a more straightforward and potentially less costly experience.

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Tour Booking Options

Some travelers have expressed confusion regarding booking options for tours at Sagrada Familia. It is noted that on the official Sagrada Familia website, tickets can be purchased either with a tour guide or for tower access, but not both together. Third-party vendors may offer combined tickets, but these are generally more expensive.

Official Tours and Audio Guides

According to forum posts, the official Sagrada Familia site offers guided tours and audio guides. The guided tours provide detailed historical information, while audio guides, which can be accessed through one's phone, offer in-depth explanations and are well-regarded by users for their convenience and comprehensive content.

Private and Small Group Tours

For those seeking a more personalized experience, private guided tours are available through various agencies. Additionally, small group tours are offered, which might be preferable for those who get claustrophobic, as the stairways in the towers can be narrow and crowded.

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Popular Destinations

According to forum posts, Girona and Tarragona are highly recommended as day trip destinations from Barcelona. These cities are praised for their beautiful historic centers and easy accessibility by train.

Unique Attractions

Some travelers mentioned specific attractions in these cities: Tarragona is noted for its impressive Roman ruins, while Girona offers a vibrant medieval center and the opportunity to see locations used in popular TV shows. Both cities provide a rich cultural experience close to Barcelona.

Additional Options

Other suggested locations include the seaside town of Sitges, known for its beaches and cultural events, and Montserrat for its stunning mountain views and monastery. These destinations are also easily reachable by public transportation, enhancing their appeal for a day trip.

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Popular Attractions

According to forum posts, popular family-friendly attractions in Barcelona include parks like Parc de Montjuïc, Park Güell, and Parc de la Ciutadella, which offer expansive green spaces and cultural sites. The CosmoCaixa science museum and the Museu de Ciències Naturals are highly recommended for families interested in interactive and educational experiences.

Event-Based Activities

Some travelers suggested aligning a visit with local festivals such as the Festa Major de Gràcia, which features activities suitable for all ages, including parades and traditional Catalan events like the castellers (human towers) and correfocs (fire runs). These festivals offer a unique cultural experience and are engaging for children and teenagers.

Outdoor and Water Activities

For families seeking outdoor adventures, forum users have recommended the beaches near Barcelona, such as Montgat Nord, for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. Additionally, the Olympic pools by the stadium offer swimming opportunities in a remarkable setting, adding a unique element to a family vacation in Barcelona.

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