Barcelona (Spanish and Catalan: Barcelona) is the capital of Catalonia and the province of Barcelona. The city occupies the northeastern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. It was founded by the Carthaginians around 230 BC. Today, Barcelona is a major Mediterranean port, a center of industry, international business, trade, and tourism, as well as a hub for students, science, art, and sports.
What to do in Barcelona?
- Walk down the lively Rambla boulevard and see the famous masterpieces of Barcelona architecture.
- Climb the observation deck of the Columbus Monument and enjoy the view of the coastal part of the city, the panorama of the Old Port and the Gothic Quarter.
- Attend a soccer match at the Camp Nou stadium and feel the united spirit of the locals cheering for «Barça.»
- Come to the walls of the Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s unfinished creation, to admire the beauty and grandeur of the massive temple soaring to the sky.
- Stroll through the mysterious Gothic Quarter, touch the secrets of the ancient Roman settlement, and experience awe on the dark, winding medieval streets.
- Visit the Picasso Museum.
Main Attractions of Barcelona
Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família
The Expiatory Temple of the Sagrada Família, or Sagrada Família (Spanish: Templo Expiatorio de la Sagrada Familia; Catalan: Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família), is a fantastic, majestic symbol of the harmony between nature and humans, an architectural masterpiece of global significance, and a monument to the genius of Antoni Gaudí.
It is filled with Christian symbolism and enchanting mystique. According to the architect’s design, the temple was to have three facades in the styles of Neo-Gothic and Modernism: the Nativity, the Passion, and the Glory of Christ. Construction of the cathedral began in 1882. But the famous Catalan managed to complete only the Nativity facade — detailed and somber. Gaudí was buried in the crypt of the temple.
The project is still not finished, construction of the Sagrada Família continues. In the 21st century, the sculptural decoration of the Passion facade was completed, and the vaults of the gallery, apse, and transept were erected. In 2010, the Temple of the Holy Family was consecrated. New towers are currently being built: there will be 18 in total.
Today, the church can be viewed not only from the outside but also from the inside. Some towers have observation decks, and there is a small museum.
☝️To avoid waiting in line for several hours, purchase tickets in advance online.
Casa Milà
Casa Milà (Casa Milà) is a rock-like building with a gray massive facade in the Modernist style, the last residential project by Antoni Gaudí. There are no straight lines here: the walls resemble waves, the windows look like underwater caves, and the balcony railings imitate seaweed. Barcelonans call this house «La Pedrera» (The Quarry).
Casa Milà was built in 1910 at the request of politician and textile magnate Pere Milà i Camps. The innovative ventilation system eliminated the need for air conditioning, and the presence of inner courtyards greatly reduced lighting costs. Casa Milà is still a residential building, but the main floor and the attic are dedicated to a museum. You can visit an apartment on the 4th floor and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Barcelona’s bourgeoisie life at the beginning of the 20th century. In 1984, Casa Milà was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
☝️Purchase tickets online without standing in line and in advance, an audio guide in Russian is included.
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló (Casa Batlló, Casa-Batlló) is one of the symbols of Barcelona. The former apartment building was completely remodeled by Antoni Gaudí in 1906 at the request of its owner Josep Batlló. Casa Batlló is devoid of symmetry, orderliness, and straight graphic lines.
The architecture of the house symbolizes the legend of Saint George, who bravely speared the dragon. At the top of the building rises a tower with a cross — this is the spear. The roof, laid out with colorful tiles — the dragon’s back. The colorful small tiles that clad the façade — the dragon’s scales. And the windows, columns, and balconies represent the skulls and bones of its victims.
For such an unusual appearance, Casa Batlló is popularly called the «House of Bones.» The interestingly shaped chimney and ventilation ducts are diverse with abstract paintings. In 2005, Casa Batlló was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Visit the magical world of Casa Batlló. The blue ticket is sold here.
Catedral de Barcelona
Barcelona’s Cathedral is dedicated to the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, the patron saint of the city (Span. Catedral de la Santa Cruz y Santa Eulalia; Cat. Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia). Its construction began in 1298 on the site of an ancient Roman temple and continued until 1420. The architecture features Gothic and Neo-Gothic styles.
Inside the cathedral, pay attention to the main altar, side chapels, majestic arches, carved 14th-century choir stalls adorned with the coats of arms of the Knights of the Golden Fleece, and an organ built in 1537-1539. The church dome’s observation deck offers beautiful views of the city.
The main shrine of the cathedral, the crypt with the alabaster sarcophagus of Saint Eulalia, is located under the altar. In the inner church courtyard live 13 white geese, representing the years of Saint Eulalia. The girl dared to throw earth on the altar of pagans, for which she was subjected to cruel tortures.
In the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament (to the right of the main entrance) is the image of Christ, which was on a ship during the Battle of Lepanto (1571). In his honor, the cathedral received its second name. According to legend, Christ on the crucifix dodged an enemy shell, which is why the sculpture is slightly crooked.
The cathedral hosts a small museum with a font, tapestries, and church utensils.
Santa Maria del Mar / Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar
Church of Santa Maria del Mar (Span. Basílica de Santa María del Mar; Cat. Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar) is an example of Catalan Gothic, a true work of medieval art. It was built between 1329 and 1383 on the site of an older church. The funds for its construction were donated by sailors and merchant guilds, which is why the church was named in honor of Saint Mary, the patron saint of sailors.
Externally, the cathedral appears heavy: everywhere stone planes with a minimal amount of decoration. The low octagonal bell towers end with flat horizontal tops. The buttresses are massive. There is a large rose window, pointed arches, and stained glass windows. But behind the gloomy walls hides an immense space flooded with light. This is because the three naves form a single space without architectural boundaries or excesses. A ribbed simple vault is supported by octagonal thin columns, and daylight flows through the tall windows.
Palau de la Música Catalana
The Palace of Catalan Music (Spanish: Palacio de la Música Catalana; Catalan: Palau de la Música Catalana) is an impressive architectural ensemble worthy of UNESCO’s list. It is the only concert hall in Europe with natural lighting. It was conceived as a concert hall and headquarters for the Catalan choral society Orfeó Català. The building was designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner and first opened to the public in 1908. It is a vibrant example of Catalan modernism. The facades are adorned with columns and decorated with glazed mosaics. The concert hall is illuminated by daylight through stained glass windows and a vaulted ceiling.
The palace hosts concerts of symphonic and chamber music, Catalan song and jazz, and musical performances. You can visit it by purchasing a concert ticket or with a tour of the palace.
Montjuïc / Montjuïc
The high hill (173 m) in the southern part of Barcelona is Montjuïc (Spanish: Montjuïc; Catalan: Montjuïc). The people of Barcelona refer to Montjuïc as a mountain. The name translates from Old Catalan as «Jewish Mountain» (Mont juïc). It is a very picturesque area, concentrated with museums, historical monuments, nightclubs, parks with views of the city and port. Once, there was an Iberian settlement here, and in 1640, a fortress appeared.
Many objects on Montjuïc were built for the 1929 World’s Fair and the 1992 Summer Olympics. You can walk around here all day! Major attractions include: the Magic Fountain, National Art Museum of Catalonia, Spanish Village, Olympic Ring, Fundació Joan Miró, Montjuïc Castle, Botanical Garden, and Mossèn Costa i Llobera Gardens.
Ciutadella Park / Parc de la Ciutadella
The history of the Ciutadella Park (Spanish: Parque de la Ciudadela; Catalan: Parc de la Ciutadella) began back in the 18th century. After the War of Spanish Succession (1714), Catalonia was annexed to Spain. King Philip V ordered the construction of a fortress in the center of Barcelona to suppress the «hot and freedom-loving spirit» of the locals. The fortress existed until 1869, when its military significance weakened. The Spanish authorities allowed the demolition of the citadel, which was reminiscent of the occupation regime. In 1872, Ciutadella Park was laid out on the vacated territory.
Now the park is one of the favorite places for walks and relaxation among locals and city guests. It features three wide avenues: poplar, linden, and elm, and is equipped with numerous shady paths with benches. In the center of Ciutadella Park, there is a lake where you can go boating and feed the ducks and turtles.
New buildings appeared in the park as well. For the 1888 World’s Fair, the Castle of the Three Dragons (Catalan: Castell dels Tres Dragons) was erected – a work by the famous Barcelonian Lluís Domènech i Montaner; the Cascade Fountain, which Antoni Gaudí participated in designing; a 30-meter Triumphal Arch, the Winter Garden, and the Palm Greenhouse. In the Castle of the Three Dragons, the Zoological Museum was opened under the name Nature Laboratory (Laboratori de Natura). The park also houses the zoo and one of Barcelona’s oldest museums – Martorell Museum (Catalan: Museu Martorell).
Park Güell / Parc Güell
Park Güell (Spanish: Parque Güell; Catalan: Parc Güell) is a fairytale world created by the genius architect for his beloved city. Antoni Gaudí built it from 1901 to 1914. This amazing corner of Barcelona occupies 17 hectares of land. Thanks to its UNESCO World Heritage status, it is kept in excellent condition.
The park was created based on the idea of the famous politician and philanthropist Eusebi Güell, who purchased a hill for the construction of elite housing in the then-fashionable «Garden City» style from England. Güell’s project subsequently failed because wealthy Spaniards did not want to live too far from the city center. But Gaudí completed his part of the project.
Park Güell sparks the imagination, starting from the entrance pavilions: they are compared to «gingerbread houses.» Next, there is a grand ceremonial staircase, a mosaic bench curved in the shape of a sea serpent, the central Hall of a Hundred Columns (actually, there are 86), and futuristic stone alleys with «bird nests.» In creating the decor, the master used a unique technique of lining with shards of ceramic tiles and broken glass. In the green oasis, pine groves rustle, palms grow, and birds sing. On the park grounds, the former residence of the architect was opened as the Gaudí House-Museum in 1963.
Buy skip-the-line tickets here.
Camp Nou / Camp Nou
Camp Nou (Spanish and Catalan Camp Nou) is the home stadium of the football club «Barcelona». It was built in 1957 but has undergone several changes in its exterior and interior. The building was planned to be named FC «Barcelona» Stadium (Estadi del FC Barcelona), but another name became commonly used – New Field (Camp Nou).
Camp Nou is considered the largest not only in Spain but in all of Europe and second on the list of football stadiums. It holds 99,354 people. Camp Nou hosted football matches of the European Championship, World Cup, and the 1992 Olympic tournament. The stadium often hosts concerts.
In 1984, the «Barça» museum named after Josep Lluís Núñez was opened at the stadium. It features numerous awards of the FC and basketball club «Barcelona,» documents, videos, photos. Visitors are offered a tour of the locker room and the commentator’s booths.
☝️Order a guided tour of the stadium in advance here.
Tibidabo / Tibidabo
Mount Tibidabo (Tibidabo) is the highest point in Barcelona with the best viewing platform. «I give you,» said the devil to Jesus, pointing at the mountain. These words from the Gospel served as the name for the mountain. The neo-Gothic Temple of the Sacred Heart (Spanish Templo Sagrado Corazón de Jesús; Catalan Temple del Sagrat Cor de Jesús) crowns its summit. Atop the church dome is the figure of the Savior.
On the slopes of Tibidabo is the namesake amusement park (Catalan Parc d’Atraccions Tibidabo, Spanish Parque de Atracciones Tibidabo) – an entertainment complex covering 70,000 m². It opened in 1899 and is the oldest amusement park in Spain and the second in Europe. In 1992, the Collserola Tower (Spanish Torre de Collserola) was erected on the mountain. It stands 288 meters tall. It is the tallest structure in the city. On the 10th floor of the tower is an observation deck.
In 1904, on Mount Tibidabo, the Fabra Observatory (Spanish Observatorio Fabra; Catalan Observatori Fabra) was opened. The observatory’s main focus is the study of asteroids and comets. Among the interesting sites on Mount Tibidabo, you will see the Ràdio Barcelona pavilion in the style of rationalism and the Florida Hotel (Gran Hotel La Florida), built in 1925. A funicular (Funicular del Tibidabo) transports tourists to Tibidabo.
➥ Tibidabo
What attractions in Barcelona can be visited for free?
In Barcelona, everyone can appreciate the cultural heritage regardless of their wallet size. There are many free offerings.
Architectural works of Gaudí, such as the Temple of the Holy Family (Sagrada Família), Güell Palace (Palau Güell), Casa Batlló, Casa Milà (Casa Milà), Casa Vicens, Casa Calvet, and others can be indefinitely and, importantly, freely viewed from the outside.
Exploring the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), where most buildings date from the 14th–15th centuries and the air is filled with a medieval spirit, is also completely free.
Barcelona’s Viewing Platforms
You will see all the beauty of the capital of Catalonia almost from a bird’s eye view while strolling on the mountain Tibidabo.
The Turó de la Rovira viewpoint on the mountain of the same name is also known as the El Carmel bunker. It was built during the civil war in 1937.
The viewpoint on the roof of the Arenas de Barcelona shopping complex in Plaça d’Espanya.
The viewpoint on the top floor of the El Corte Ingles shopping center in Plaça de Catalunya.
The observation deck near the National Museum (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya) offers views of the esplanade-avenue Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina and the Venetian Towers (Torres Venecianes), the Magic Fountain and the Four Columns (Quatre Columnes), as well as Plaça d’Espanya.
Interesting “freebies” near Montjuïc and on the waterfront
Evening light and music show at the Magic Fountain (Font màgica de Montjuïc).
Gardens and viewpoints on Montjuïc Hill.
Olympic Ring and its sites of the 1992 Summer Olympics.
Montjuïc Castle (Castell de Montjuïc).
Rambla de Mar Bridge, offering views of the waterfront, sea, and Old Port (Port Vell).
Sculptures and monuments, including the Head of Barcelona (La cara de Barcelona), The Shrimp (La Gamba), Woman and Bird (Dona i ocell), the Raval Cat (El Gato del Raval), and Joan Miró’s Mosaic “Rose of the Winds.”
Plaça de Catalunya, with its statues and fountains, is the oldest plaza in Barcelona known as Plaça Nova, Plaça Del Pi, Plaça del Portal de la Pau with the Columbus Monument (Monument a Colom) and other squares in the city.
Rambles – the main promenade and tourist street of the city, full of its vibrant atmosphere.
Boqueria Market (Mercat de la Boqueria) – a realm of flavors, smells, sounds, and colors.
Barcelona Cathedral (Catedral de Barcelona) and other churches in the city.
Free parks in Barcelona
Ciutadella Park (Parc de la Ciutadella) with fountains, sculptures, palm trees, a lake, and birds. Every Wednesday and Friday all summer, you can listen to free jazz concerts at 10:00 PM.
Parc del Laberint d’Horta, where an episode of the film “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer” was filmed, is open for free on Sundays and Wednesdays.
Gardens of The Palace of Pedralbes – a cozy park in a prestigious area, dominated by the former Royal Palace.
Free museums in Barcelona
Hospital de Sant Pau (Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau) impresses with its whimsical architecture, but it is still an active hospital.
In order for everyone to partake in the cultural heritage, most museums in Barcelona offer free admission once a month (usually on Wednesday or Sunday). Check official museum websites for information.
Museum of Contemporary Art Metrònom (Metrònom. Fundación Rafael Tous de Arte Contemporáneo) – «a museum of the future» and a haven for art that is sometimes too experimental. Free admission.
Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria with archaeological excavations covering a time span from Roman rule to the early 18th century.
Barcelona’s Photographic Archive (Arxiu Fotogràfic de Barcelona) showcases historical photographs of the city, people, interesting events, and sights from different periods, starting in 1839.
Free sightseeing tours in Barcelona
with Runner Bean Tours, tours conducted in English.
with Feel Free Tours, tours conducted in English and Spanish.
with Travel Bound, tours conducted in English and Spanish.
with Sandemans, tours conducted in English and Spanish.
Free concerts in Barcelona
Free classical and jazz music concerts can be enjoyed in many parks in Barcelona from June to August during the “Music in the Parks” festival.
During the La Mercè fiesta, free concerts are held throughout the city, from large squares to bars and clubs.
What discount cards and combo tickets are available in Barcelona?
There are several types of discount cards and combo tickets available in Barcelona. Learn about their features and choose what will help you see everything you have planned while significantly saving money.
Barcelona Pass
The Barcelona Pass is suitable for those visiting the capital of Catalonia for the first time and planning to actively visit attractions. The card ordered online will be sent to your email. All online!
What does the Barcelona Pass offer?
- Fast entry to the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell;
- self-guided tour of Park Güell: audio guide app on your phone;
- travel on the Hop on Hop off tourist bus in Barcelona + free audio guide;
- 10% discount on your next booking.
The Barcelona Pass does not entitle you to free use of public transport.
Barcelona Card
The Barcelona Card is both a travel and discount card. It is a good deal if you are traveling with children. The price of the card depends on the number of days of use (Barcelona Card Express/72/96/120 hours) and the presence of children. It is cheaper to buy the Barcelona Card online, but you will need to pick it up at the airport or distribution points in the city center. More about the Barcelona Card read here.
What does the Barcelona Card offer?
- Free travel on public transportation (unlimited trips);
- free entry to 25 museums in Barcelona (the 48-hour Barcelona Card does not offer this right);
- discounts on tickets to many museums, attractions, shows, musical performances, etc.;
- a map and guidebook of Barcelona.
Hola BCN!
Hola BCN! is a transportation card for 48/72/96/120 hours, allowing you to explore Barcelona at your own pace.
What does Hola BCN! offer?
- Unlimited rides on the metro, buses, trams;
- travel on city railway trains (FGC) and suburban trains of the state railway network Renfe within Zone I;
- metro travel from Barcelona airport to the city center and back.
Articket Barcelona
The Articket Barcelona card is specially designed for art lovers.
What does Articket Barcelona offer?
- The opportunity to visit 6 significant museums in the city at a reasonable price and without queuing;
- the card is valid for a year.
For tickets to individual attractions, see GetYourGuide and Tiqets.
Combo Ticket
A combo ticket is another cost-effective option that will save you time and money.
The Rodalies train network has agreements with a number of Catalonian tourist sites, including the Port Aventura amusement park. The combo ticket «round-trip train + entrance ticket» will cost you the price of the park entrance ticket. Tickets can be purchased online or at a vending machine at the railway station. Current information on combo tickets here.
How to buy tickets to museums in advance?
Barcelona is a city with a rich history, very popular with tourists. Its museums are ready to showcase their treasures to visitors. Plan your museum visits in advance. Buy tickets in advance without leaving your home on getyourguide, Tiqets, musement.com, klook.com or on the official websites and save time and money! The internet will be your helper.
Where to buy tickets for soccer matches?
Spanish Barcelona is one of the strongest football clubs in the world. Its home ground is Camp Nou stadium. I recommend buying tickets for a soccer match online, for example, through the website ticketnetwork.com.
Do you need a visa and insurance?
For a trip to Spain, a Schengen visa and medical insurance are required. The policy must be valid in all Schengen Agreement countries and cover emergency medical expenses of at least €30,000.
Which area of Barcelona is best to choose a hotel?
I will briefly tell you about the city’s neighborhoods and provide links to collections of good hotels in these areas.
In the Old City (Ciutat Vella), you will find entertainment for every taste, attractions and shops, but accommodation prices here are inflated. Moreover, the Old City has many tourists, the buildings are old and inconvenient, it’s noisy, thefts occur, and there are no large supermarkets. The Old City consists of the Gothic Quarter (Barrio Gótico) with numerous architectural monuments; the loud and restless Raval (El Raval), the seaside Barceloneta (La Barceloneta), and the strolling Sant Pere and Santa Caterina i la Ribera (Sant Pere — Santa Caterina i la Ribera).
Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pulitzer Barcelona is a design hotel near Plaça Catalunya, housed in a 19th-century building but in a modern elegant style. The rooftop has a terrace with a garden, where live concerts are often held. The breakfast buffet is diverse, made from homemade products and local produce. Pulitzer hotel features a gourmet restaurant with a terrace, a lobby bar, and a library.
Eixample or the New City is one of the liveliest and cleanest areas. The downside is its distance from the sea.
The Sants-Montjuïc district is home to the port and Montjuïc mountain. The area is suitable for family vacations with children.
The Les Corts district includes 3 neighborhoods: Les Corts, Maternitat i Sant Ramon (La Maternitat i Sant Ramon), and Pedralbes (Pedralbes). It is calm and respectable here, but expensive and far from the main city attractions.
Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is an expensive, respectable area for wealthy individuals.
Gràcia is one of the best areas to live in. It is favored by the bohemian crowd and students. Gràcia is appealing to young people. It has the best ethnic restaurants and designer shops. The center is nearby, there are few tourists, but it’s far from the sea. Hotels.
Horta Guinardó is one of the greenest areas of Barcelona, non-touristy, with traditions and a peaceful way of life. Suitable for comfortable living for families with children.
Sant Martí is one of the most popular areas due to its proximity to the sea. Housing here can be found to suit any taste and budget.
You shouldn’t settle in the Nou Barris and Sant Andreu districts. Although housing is inexpensive here, the infrastructure is poorly developed, it’s far from the center, and there are many immigrants. I won’t even provide a selection of hotels.
How much do hotels in Barcelona cost?
Cheap accommodation in Barcelona can be found in hostels. A bunk for a night will cost €12-95. A room in a three-star hotel will cost €50-300 per day. The average cost of accommodation in a four-star hotel is from €100 to €330. A stay in a five-star hotel will cost €160-670 per day, while renting an apartment is €80-310.
In Barcelona, the high season is from May to October. Look for special offers from hotels for advance booking. Then the savings can be 10-20%.
Can you drink tap water?
You can drink tap water in Barcelona, but it has an unpleasant taste. It is not necessary to spend money on store-bought drinking water. Just buy a bottle once and simply refill it as needed at the drinking fountains located throughout the city. Just make sure that the fountain is labeled Agua potable (Spanish) or Aigua potable (Catalan), which means «Drinking water.”
You can save up to €10 a day on water!
Which transport ticket to buy in Barcelona?
Barcelona’s public transport includes the metro, buses, trams, commuter trains, funiculars, cable cars, ferries, and taxis. Prices may differ from those written.
Single ticket
A single trip ticket (Single ticket) costs €2.40.
T-dia card
A one-day pass (T-dia card) for 1 zone will cost €10.50. It is suitable for those who plan to move actively around the city by transport during the day.
T-casual card
If you are in Barcelona for more than one day and intend to use public transport, it is better to buy a T-casual ticket for €11.35 for 1 zone. It is valid for 10 trips on all types of public transport. The duration of the trip should not exceed 1 hour and 15 minutes one way. Several people can use the ticket, with one trip charged per person.
Hola Barcelona Travel Card
A special pass Hola BCN! for active tourists allows unlimited trips and includes transfers to/from the airport.
The ticket for 2 days (48 hours) costs €16.30;
for 3 days (72 hours) — €23.70;
for 4 days (96 hours) – €30.80;
for 5 days (120 hours) – €38.
You can find more details about transport rates in Barcelona on the official site Tmb.cat.
Where to buy a transport ticket
Tickets are sold at ticket offices, machines at metro or suburban train stations, as well as from bus and tram drivers.
Which double-decker sightseeing bus is better?
To get a general idea of the city in a short time, it is best to ride the sightseeing tourist buses Bus Turistic (Barcelona Bus Turistic) and City Tour (Barcelona City Tour), which operate on a hop-on hop-off system. Buy a day or two-day ticket and ride as much as you want. The buses are double-decker, with the second floor being open.
Barcelona Bus Turistic’s buses are more popular.
Similarities between Bus Turistic and City Tour
- They take you past the main attractions of Barcelona;
- The bus can be used as city transport: you can get off at any attraction and board again or change the route;
- With the ticket, you receive headphones, a printed guide, and a booklet with discount coupons;
- There is an audio guide in Russian and access to Wi-Fi;
- The bus frequency is approximately 8–25 minutes.
Differences between Bus Turistic and City Tour
- Barcelona Bus Turistic offers an additional sightseeing tour;
- City Tour buses are more comfortable;
- Bus Turistic offers 3 routes and more buses. City Tour has 2 routes.
- Bus Turistic is cheaper.
Where to buy tickets
Tickets for tourist buses can be purchased at Catalonia Square, where all routes start, from the driver, at special tourist kiosks, or at the airport. When buying tickets through the website, you will receive a 10% discount.
What tours to take in Barcelona?
- Daily Walk in Barcelona
- First Steps in Barcelona
- Sacred Mountain Montserrat
- Gothic Barcelona in the Evening
- Barcelona Overview: Children’s Version
- Barcelona from a Special Angle, or What the Guides Don’t Tell You
- Photo Session and Walk in Old Barcelona
- Stories of Old Barcelona
- Grand Two-Hour Tour of Barcelona
- Barcelona: 1.5-Hour Sightseeing Tour on Electric Bikes
Where to See Flamenco
While in Barcelona, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a vibrant, passionately Spanish, and thrilling flamenco show.
Things to Do with Kids in Barcelona and Surroundings
How to keep little ones entertained while in Barcelona? Here are 36 ideas for family activities:
- see different fish and dive into ocean mysteries at the Aquarium (Aquàrium de Barcelona) during the day, and spend the night watching sharks. Just bring a sleeping bag, pajamas, and a flashlight;
- at the Ciutadella Park, do a few things: get to know the zoo inhabitants and attend the dolphin and sea lion shows;
- meet the woolly ancestor of the elephant at the Mammoth Museum (Museo del Mamut);
- at the Castle of the Three Dragons (Castell dels Tres Dragons) – find the fairy tale lizards;
- at the main science museum CosmoCaixa – understand how the world works;
- at the Maritime Museum – look over Amerigo Vespucci’s atlas, Magellan’s ship model, an ancient galley, and submarine. Also, check out the ship’s holds, sailor’s quarters, and learn how to manage sails;
- in Montjuïc Castle museum – view various types of weapons and a regiment of tin soldiers;
- at the National Art Museum of Catalonia – get acquainted with works by Rubens, El Greco, and Velázquez;
- at the Spanish Village – watch craftsmen at work, try traditional delicacies, buy souvenirs;
- boys will be thrilled to visit the Barca football club museum;
- at the Blue Museum (Museu Blau), part of the Natural Science Museum, learn how life evolved on earth;
- at the Egyptian Museum (Museu Egipci) – learn how to conduct excavations, write hieroglyphs, lie in a sarcophagus, and take photos dressed as an ancient Egyptian;
- at the Museum of Music (Museu de la Música) – examine national instruments from different countries and hear them play;
- take photos with celebrities at the Wax Museum (Museu de Cera);
- sweet tooths should visit the Chocolate Museum (Museu de la Xocolata) to learn all about this sweet product, and also try being a confectioner;
- view the city from observation decks: the gallery of the Temple of the Sacred Heart, the telecommunications tower Torre de Collserola, Mount Tibidabo, Montjuïc Castle, the Columbus statue, Las Arenas shopping center;
- ride the cable car and see the city from a bird’s eye view;
- visit the amusement park on Mount Tibidabo, ride the Ferris wheel, and visit the robot museum;
- bounce on bungee, walk on water in zorbs, ride inflatable boats and velomobiles, build sand castles in BubbleParc;
- Port Aventura amusement park guarantees thrilling experiences;
- get an adrenaline rush at Ferrari Land;
- listen to classic performances adapted for children at the Gran Teatre del Liceu;
- visit a magic and optical illusions show at the «King of Magic» theater-museum (Museu del Rei de la Màgia), uncover the secrets of famous tricks and become a student of the School of Magic;
- be amazed by the water spectacle of the Magic Fountain;
- see the famous mosaic, salamander, and winding bench in Park Güell;
- create a story about the dragon near Casa Batlló;
- admire the unreal Sagrada Família;
- enter Imaginarium toy store through different entrances;
- see 147 mini replicas of the main sights of Catalonia and Majorca at the Catalonia in Miniature park (Catalunya en Miniatura);
- visit the Illa Fantasia water park;
- ride the old Blue Tram (Tramvia Blau) along Avinguda del Tibidabo to the funicular station;
- take a sea trip and see the city from the deck of a boat;
- try something tasty at the Escribá patisserie;
- enjoy Italian ice cream at DelaCrem and Cremería Toscana;
- spend time at the beach.
Very cool tours
By helicopter
By hot air balloon
Barcelona: Montserrat hot air balloon ride and monastery visit
Race on the Formula 1 track
Drive your dream car on the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
Bike rental in Barcelona
Getting to know the city while biking is fun, fast, and fairly economical. To save time and money, book bikes, motorcycles, and scooters on BikesDooking.com.
Download the Scoot mobile app on your phone, book the nearest bike, pick it up, and ride it around the city. At the end of the ride, leave the two-wheeled friend in any convenient place. Find information at scoot.co/barcelona.
Here are several more companies for bike rentals in Barcelona. Check their websites for rental rates, insurance, addresses, and opening hours:
Where to eat in Barcelona
If you’re caught by hunger on a weekday between 1 pm and 4 pm, look for restaurants with a Menu del Dia board at the entrance. This means the establishment offers a set lunch menu priced at €8–15. Usually, it includes 3–4 options for the first course, second course, dessert, and local wine. Portions are larger than the standard.
Let me suggest a few restaurants where you can sample seafood without breaking the bank.
Restaurant Los Caracoles. Also try the gazpacho with strawberries and the signature oxtail here. Check from €30.
At Agut, order cod with cold aioli, octopus, grilled shrimp, tuna steak, paella. Check from €12.
In the chain seafood restaurant La Paradeta you are offered to choose seafood, which will be cooked right away. Average check €20. The easiest and cheapest option is to come to a café on the beach in the morning when fishermen have just returned with their catch and order whatever you like.
In the tapas bar La Vinateria del Call, you can enjoy the tastiest ham or your favorite cheese, and drink good wine for as low as €11.
The café El Casal offers a good combination of price and quality. For breakfast, they offer croissants, toast, eggs, and bacon; for lunch, there is a Menu del Dia; a wide variety of tapas and delicious ciabatta with cheese, bacon, sausages, or jamon. Prices start at €11.
Can Paixano (La Xampanyeria) is a small café loved by locals. It’s noisy and atmospheric. A burger + a glass of white wine will cost you €6.
Honest Greens is a chain of restaurants offering healthy and wholesome food from local Catalan farmers.
You can buy ready-made salads, bread, sliced jamon, cheese, and even a bottle of sangria at the market or supermarket, for example, on the first floor of the El Corte Inglés department store, and enjoy them right in Plaça de Catalunya, sitting on a bench.
Restaurants with terraces
🇯🇵 Roka Barcelona (on the map) is a Japanese cuisine restaurant offering exquisite sushi and grilled Japanese dishes. The terrace is open only in the evening during the summer season.
🐟 The menu of the FiskeBar (on the map) is mainly fish and seafood. It’s a great place. The interior is designed in a Scandinavian style with large windows offering views of the sea and marina. It has a terrace.
🇮🇹 Velissima (on the map) is an Italian restaurant, cocktail bar, club, and terrace. Checkered tablecloths and wicker chairs help create the atmosphere of an Italian night on the coast. Order homemade pasta with clams and burrata.
Cafés
The Miners Coffee Rambla Poblenou (on the map) is a specialty coffee shop originally opened in Prague, and since 2022 a branch has appeared in Barcelona. Here you are offered specialty coffee made by baristas from the best beans worldwide. In addition to coffee, there’s a variety of fresh pastries.
The café-restaurant Els Quatre Gats (on the map) is the most famous and bohemian establishment of the Catalan capital, opened in 1897 inspired by the Parisian «Black Cat.» What could be better than a cup of aromatic coffee in beautiful interiors that wonderfully preserved the spirit of the «golden age.» You can reserve a table on the website.
The coffee shop Syra Coffee (on the map) has it all: delicious coffee, pastries, and even vegan food. The interior is minimalist, made of wood, and filled with warm light.
Hidden Coffee Roasters is a chain of coffee shops where you can taste rare high-quality coffee. Delicious desserts, cookies, and pastries are also available. Barcelona’s specialty coffee roaster Hidden Coffee Roasters is considered one of the best in Europe.
Hidden Coffee Roasters — Roastery (on the map)
Hidden Coffee Roasters — El Born (on the map)
Hidden Coffee Roasters — Les Corts (on the map)
Best Pastry Shops in Barcelona
I present 5 top pastry shops that you must visit while in Barcelona. It’s a paradise for all sweet tooths, offering everything from classic baked goods to innovative desserts, delightful chocolates, and ice cream.
Pastelería Hofmann (on the map) is a German bakery with stunning and eye-catching handmade desserts. I recommend cheesecake with berry filling, candies with citrus fillings, buttery croissants, and mascarpone croissants.
Sirvent Turroneria Orxateria (on the map) is an orxateria known for its orxata, ice cream, and handmade turron.
Oriol Balaguer (on the map) is a pastry shop offering baked goods and handmade chocolate candies. Interesting are the panettone and Palmeras cookies. Expensive.
Granja & Chocolateria La Nena (on the map) is a chocolate café. Suitable for breakfasts and visits with children. Here they serve churros, hot chocolate, pastries, pancakes, and tasty hot sandwiches.
Ugot Bruncherie (on the map) is a café where everything is served on vintage porcelain. Everything is very tasty: pastries, late breakfasts, burgers + aromatic coffee.
Stores with Native Products
- Troika (Botiga Russa Troika Delicatessen) (on the map);
- Teremok (Russian Shop Teremok) (on the map), store website teremok.es;
- Mix Markt (on the map).
What to try in Barcelona?
- Paella (catalan paella) – a rice dish with seafood, chicken, pork, or veal;
- Fideuá – the same paella, only with fine noodles instead of rice;
- Gazpacho – a cold soup made from fresh mashed vegetables (mostly tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and garlic);
- Tapas – appetizers that accompany beer or wine. These can be olives, anchovies in vinegar (boquerones), sheep cheese (queso manchego), fried green peppers (pebrots verds fregits), fried squid (chopitos), salted cod on bread (bacalao), grilled cuttlefish, fish skewers with vegetables (banderillas), etc.;
- Serrano ham with bread and tomatoes (jamón serrano). The name of the ham comes from the word sierra – a mountain range where the meat is cured throughout the year;
- Escudella i carn d’olla – Catalan soup with meat. It is served as two courses: a rich broth with pasta or rice and meat with vegetables;
- Potato omelet (tortilla de patatas), which is cut into triangles and eaten hot or cold like a pie;
- Catalan sausage Butifarra. It is usually served with white beans, but can also come with a salad and French fries;
- Catalan-style bread with tomato (pa amb tomàquet) – toasted bread rubbed with ripe tomato and garlic, seasoned with olive oil and salt;
- Between the sea and mountains (mar i Muntanya) – a dish where shrimp (sea) and chicken (mountain) coexist under a tomato, onion, and garlic sauce. It may also be a combination of meat and fish;
- Romesco sauce – Catalan sauce for meat made from tomatoes, garlic, bread, almonds, and hazelnuts, hot peppers, olive oil, and spices;
- Catalan cream (crema Catalana) – a delicate custard with a hint of cinnamon and citrus under a crispy caramel crust, made from milk, eggs, caramel, and caramelized sugar;
- Panellets – small cakes made of almonds, sugar, and sweet potatoes, may include dates, cinnamon, cocoa, pine nuts;
- Turrón – a sweet made of egg whites, almonds (or hazelnuts), honey, and sugar. Turrón can be hard or soft. Olive oil is added to the soft version;
- Churros – a choux pastry tube fried in deep fat. Pastries are served with hot chocolate;
- Black rice (arròs negre), which is made from rice, shrimp, squid, fish, mussels, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. The black color and aroma of the dish are given by cuttlefish ink. Black rice is served with allioli sauce (homemade garlic mayonnaise);
- Catalan-style cannelloni (canelons) – pasta sheets rolled into a tube, stuffed with meat. There can be a variation with spinach, cheese, mushrooms. Cannelloni is topped with béchamel sauce and baked in the oven.
What local alcoholic drinks should you try?
Sangria – a traditional light alcoholic drink, a mix of wine, ice, fruits, berries, and spices.
Tinto de verano – a democratic version of sangria, where red wine is mixed with lemonade or soda.
Cava – sparkling wine made by the traditional method Champenoise from grape varieties Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada or other permitted varieties. The minimum price for a bottle is €3-6. The most popular brands are Codorniu, Freixenet, Pago de Tharsys, Segura Viudas.
Wine. Catalonia is famous for its white and red wines. The region produces the highest number of wines with registered origin – Denominación de Origen (DO). Catalan wines are distinguished by their noble velvety taste and special temperament.
Vermouth (Vermú) in Barcelona is typically drunk black, diluted with seltzer water, and with a slice of orange. It is consumed before lunch because it enhances appetite and prepares the stomach for food.
Estrella Damm beer has been produced in Barcelona since 1876. Moritz beer was created in Barcelona but is now produced in Zaragoza.
Anise liqueur, Anise (Anís) – an alcoholic beverage consumed as a digestif and used in baking.
Catalan cream (Crema catalana) – an exquisite liqueur with hints of vanilla and cinnamon, its taste reminiscent of a creamy dessert, alcohol content 15-18%.
Pacharán (Pacharán) – a sloe liqueur, whose bouquet is filled with sloe, anise, caramel, and various aromatic additives, alcohol content 20-30%.
Lemon liqueur (Licor de limon). Consists of lemon juice, sugar, ethyl alcohol, and water in equal parts, alcohol content 25-32%.
Montserra liqueur – marvelous bouquet of mountain herbs, an invention of the monks of the Montserra monastery, alcohol content 31%. It contains 15 ingredients: lavender, cinnamon, juniper, cloves, coriander, thyme, water, and sugar, the other components are kept secret.
Liqueur 43 (Licor 43) is popular in Spain. The recipe of the drink is kept secret. It is only known that it contains 43 ingredients, including vanilla, citrus, herbs, and other fruit and spice additives. Alcohol content 31%.
Crema de orujo (Crema de orujo) – a soft variant of grape brandy (orujo), meaning sweeter and creamier. Its alcohol content is 17%. It tastes similar to Baileys.
Clara (Clara). The full name of the drink is “clara con limon,” – a light summer cocktail, a mixture of pale beers and lemonade in equal proportions. Low alcohol content does not cause intoxication, the taste of beer is hardly noticeable, and the tonic effect is immediate.
Kalimotxo (calimocho) – a cocktail made of red wine and cola in equal proportions with ice and lemon.
Useful Apps
Spotted by Locals
An app for travelers that helps you explore Barcelona like a local and find hidden gems. Spotted by Locals is available in the form of a website and apps.
Free Now
Free Now – a service for ordering a taxi, renting a car, motorcycle, electric bicycle, and scooter. The service also operates in France, Italy, Poland, and Germany.
Barcelona Official Guide
Barcelona Official Guide – the city’s official guide, which lists places to visit, includes offline maps, metro schedules, and useful information about the city.
Barcelona Restaurants
Barcelona Restaurants – an up-to-date guide to the city’s restaurants, where you can choose a restaurant for lunch or dinner according to your criteria, such as price, cuisine, or location.
Only available as an app on iOS
Is it customary to tip in Barcelona?
Tipping is a gesture of appreciation, not a sign of good manners. For breakfast or a set lunch in a café, it’s customary to leave a few dozen cents, rounding the amount up to 50 cents or a euro. If you’re satisfied with the food and service in a restaurant, you can consider leaving a 5% tip. And if you’re thrilled with the place, why not leave 10%?
The word “IVA” on the bill is the tax, which amounts to about 10%, not the tip. In Spain, tips are usually not included on the bill.When is the best time to visit Barcelona?
The time of your trip to Barcelona depends on your travel goals. For a beach vacation, plan your visit from mid-May to mid-September. For exploring the city and its surroundings, spring and fall are more comfortable. It’s cheaper to travel in November, January, or February, when flight and hotel prices are lowest. The high season runs from mid-June to late September, and also during Christmas, New Year, Catholic Easter, and the festival of La Mercè (from September 24).
In summer, especially in August, Barcelona is very hot and crowded. The sea warms up by mid-July. Accommodation and flights are expensive, and there are queues at attractions and restaurants.
From the second half of September, the pleasant fall season begins and lasts almost the entire month of October. The air and water temperature is around 79°F. By the end of October, it gets cooler, rains start, and prices for flights and hotels decrease. This time is suitable for getting to know the sights.
Winter is a time for affordable relaxation and cultural tourism. The average temperature is 50°F, it’s humid and windy. But if you’re a fan of Gaudí, seafood, and wine, this won’t be a problem. Mid-January marks the start of sales.
In spring, from late April to mid-May, the weather becomes comfortable for walks and discovering the capital of Catalonia. However, the sea will still be cold, and lounging on the beach won’t be ideal.
Where to buy groceries?
- At supermarkets like Mercadona, Lidl, Día, Caprabo, Carrefour
- At markets.
Which SIM card to get?
- Orange SIM cardOrange
- Vodafone SIM cardVodafone
- Universal SIM cardDrimsim
- or buy one locally at Orange or Vodafone stores.
How to get to Barcelona cheaply?
By plane
Airlines like S7 Airlines, Aeroflot, Ural Airlines, Vueling, and Iberia fly directly from Moscow to Barcelona. Flight duration is 4 hours and 40 minutes. From Saint Petersburg, Vueling and Rossiya operate direct flights to the capital of Spain. Flight time is 4 hours and 15 minutes.
European airlines offer flights to Barcelona with layovers. With this option, your journey will take from 6 to 15 hours. For example, you can fly from Moscow economically with Swiss via Zurich, Lufthansa via Frankfurt, or Czech Airlines via Prague. From St. Petersburg, AirBaltic flies with a layover in Riga. Charters fly to Barcelona from spring until late autumn.
By plane to Girona + train to Barcelona
As an option, you can fly to Girona with Pobeda Airlines and then take a bus or train to Barcelona. This will be significantly cheaper.
Buses run from Girona–Costa Brava Airport to Girona station. The trip takes 20-30 minutes. Trains leave from the Girona train station to Barcelona’s Barcelona-Sants station every hour. The fastest option is the high-speed AVE or AVANT train, taking 38 minutes. The Medium Distance train takes longer (1 hour and 10 minutes) but is more cost-effective.
By bus
The most convenient and cheapest way to get to Barcelona is by bus from the Girona station. In about 2 hours, it will take you to the central bus station, Barcelona Estacio Nord.
Check out options on how to get from Girona to Barcelona in my planner.
How to get from Barcelona Airport?
By metro
The automated L9 Sud metro line connects Terminal T1 and T2 of the airport with the city. Trains run every 7 minutes. There are 3 transfer stations on the line: Torrassa (L1), Collblanc (L5), and Zona Universitària (L3). The metro ride from the airport to the center of Barcelona takes about 30 minutes. Buy a single journey Airport ticket for €5.15 or a Hola BCN! ticket for your trip.
By bus
Aerobús A1 and A2 buses provide convenient transport to the city center. Stops are located near Terminals T1 and T2. Buses run every 5 minutes with a travel time of 35 minutes. Major stops include Espanya Square (Pl. Espanya) and Catalunya Square (Pl. Catalunya). A single ticket costs €5.90, and a round trip is €10.20. Buy tickets from machines at the stop or online.
The cheapest way is to take the local bus No. 46, which runs every 15 minutes and will take you to Espanya Square in 30-40 minutes. Suitable tickets include a single ticket for €2.40, T-casual for 10 trips, and Hola BCN!.
At night, you can travel from T1 to Espanya Square by bus N17 or N18.
By train
Every half hour, a RENFE train runs between the airport and the city. The train station is located near Terminal T2. You can reach it via a covered walkway. In 25 minutes, you’ll be in the center. Choose either the Sant Estació or Passeig de Gracia stops. Check the schedule and prices on the carrier’s website renfe.com
By taxi
A taxi is a convenient way to get to the center of Barcelona. Taxi stands can be found near Terminals T1 and T2. The trip to the city takes 25-35 minutes and costs from €35.
How to buy train and bus tickets in Spain?
OMIO, a booking service for trains, buses, and flights, has an interface in Russian. This makes the purchasing process easier. Compare and buy.
Tickets for trains to any part of Spain are sold on the Renfe company’s website. Those who plan their trip in advance and register for the +Renfe loyalty program can save.
Traveling around Spain is comfortable on Alsa buses. Tickets are posted in advance on the company’s website, and there are many discounts and promotions. Registering for the bonus program will allow you to earn points and save on service charges.
How to get around the country?
It’s better to rent a car.
Essential apps for your phone
I’ve compiled a list of essential apps. If you can’t find them in the App Store or Google Play, create an additional account for Spain.
- ToGoodToGo and Phenix – pick up leftover food from restaurants and stores at a big discount
- Yego – scooter rental
- TheFork – book tables, use promo code 80BD20FF
- TikEat — another service for table reservations
- Getir – grocery delivery similar to scooter, promo code RVOYNEF for €10
- Glovo – delivery from restaurants and stores. Promo code for 3 free deliveries EECAXSU.
- JustEat – food delivery from restaurants
- Freenow – taxi service and scooter rental. Promo code djylm9rl0 for €5.
- Cabify – another taxi and scooter rental service. Convenient to compare prices directly in Google maps. Promo code mihailw1 for €3.
- Uber – taxi
Where to go for a day trip from Barcelona?
Vic (Vik) – a medieval city located 75 km from the capital of Catalonia. It impresses with a variety of architectural styles. Notable are the 2nd-century Roman temple, 11th-century cathedral, and 11th-century bridges across the dried-up Meder River. The lamp posts and balconies in the city center were designed by Antoni Gaudi. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, there is a market on Market Square, where you can buy the famous Catalan sausage, leather crafts, and more. Vic is also known for its festivals and celebrations.
Sitges (Sitges) – a popular resort about 40 km from Barcelona. There are not many historical attractions here. However, there is a strip of golden, well-maintained beaches along the coast. The city hosts an annual carnival, an international Argentine tango festival, a fantasy and horror film festival, and a classic car rally. Sitges is the birthplace of Facundo Bacardi, the founder of the company of the same name.
Girona (Girona) – a city 100 km from Barcelona, where the medieval architecture of the historic center and modern urban culture coexist well. The main attraction of the old town is the 15th-century Gothic cathedral (Catedral de Santa Maria). Here you will also see fortress structures from the Roman period, medieval buildings, and the simple but unique architecture of the Jewish Quarter. Girona hosts many festivals, celebrations, and street parades. The city also has several restaurants specializing in Catalan cuisine.
Cardona is a small ancient town 100 km from Barcelona. It has preserved a castle built in the late 9th century by Wilfred the Hairy, several old churches, medieval buildings, and salt caves.
Empuriabrava is a young resort town on the Bay of Roses in the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park. It is located 160 km from Barcelona. The entire town is cut through by canals, leading to its nickname as the «Spanish Venice.» Due to strong winds, Empuriabrava is popular among yachtsmen. Nearby are the ruins of the ancient Greek colony Emporion, founded in 575 BC.
Montserrat is a Benedictine monastery and pilgrimage center 50 km from Barcelona. It was built 1000 years ago on the picturesque jagged Montserrat Mountain at an altitude of 725 m. The main building of the complex is the Basilica of Our Lady of Montserrat, where the Throne Room houses the Black Madonna (statue of Our Lady of Montserrat). Every day at 1 p.m., the boys’ choir performs a hymn to the Virgin Mary in the basilica.
Colònia Güell is located 15 km from the city center. It is a factory village. Small houses with gardens were intended for workers, and solid mansions for the management. On the complex’s territory is Gaudí’s Crypt – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In October, the Colònia holds a festival featuring markets, theatrical shows, and carnivals.
The ancient town of Manresa is situated on the Cardener River, 70 km from Barcelona. People come here to see the Gothic Basilica of Santa Maria de la Seu, an art-deco architectural ensemble on San Domingo Square, and the 13th-century stone bridge (El Pont Vell). It’s worth visiting the Santa Cova cave, where Saint Ignatius of Loyola prayed. Excellent wine is produced in Manresa.
It is 115 km from Barcelona to Solsona. The city retains its medieval center with a cathedral and a diocesan museum. Every year, spectacular celebrations, carnivals, and festivals are held here.
Tarragona is a quiet and beautiful coastal town with a rich history. From the coastal hill called the «Mediterranean Balcony,» there is a view of the sea, the city, and the ruins of Roman structures, which have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It’s about 100 km to Barcelona.
Montblanc is a town at the foot of the White Mountain (Montblanc). It’s 120 km from Barcelona. It was founded in the 12th century. Montblanc attracts visitors with medieval architecture, ancient legends, and the beauty of the surrounding mountains. Here, you can see a 1.5-km-long fortress wall with 31 towers, the Hospital of Saint Magdalene, the churches of Saints Mary, Francis, and Michael, and Major Square.
In the vicinity of Montblanc is one of the longest caves in the world, Font Major, and the 12th-century Poblet Monastery (Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Poblet) with a large collection of paintings and sculptures.
The «Dali Triangle» includes three towns — Figueres, Púbol, Cadaqués (distance about 150 km), which are closely connected with the life and work of the surrealist artist Salvador Dali.
Dali was born in the city of Figueres (Figueres). The theater-museum, built according to the artist’s design, has become the main city attraction. The exhibition presents paintings, sculptures, photographs, engravings, and jewelry created by the master. The great Catalan himself is buried here, in a crypt beneath the dome.
Cadaqués (Cadaqués). In the past, it was a fishing village, but today it is an astonishingly beautiful resort town with whitewashed houses. Cadaqués gained immense popularity thanks to the enthusiastic stories of Salvador Dali, Marc Chagall, and Federico Garcia Lorca. The most visited attraction in Cadaqués is the Salvador Dali Museum.
In the small town of Púbol (Púbol), there is a castle given by Dali to his wife Gala. The castle has retained a unique atmosphere imbued with the happy and tragic events of Dali’s last decades. It is now a museum. Gala was buried in a crypt designed by the artist during his life.
Salou is one of the most popular Mediterranean resorts, located on the picturesque, bay-indented coast of the Costa Dorada, 110 km from Barcelona. It is known not only for its beaches but also for the nearby popular amusement park Port Aventura.
Reus is the birthplace of Antoni Gaudí. The city has a theme center dedicated to the famous architect. The distance to Barcelona is 110 km.
The resort towns Blanes, Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar, L’Escala are known for their beaches.
The city Vilanova i la Geltrú is called «Little Havana.» It ranks number 1 in quality of life in Catalonia. It is 50 km away from Barcelona.
Vall de Núria is a picturesque valley, a secret corner in the Pyrenees. It is located at an altitude of almost 2 km above sea level, surrounded by mountains over 3,000 meters high. The distance to Barcelona is 130 km. You can reach the valley only by the cremallera mountain railway, which translates as «zipper.»
El Torrent de la Cabana is characterized by mountain streams, waterfalls, and cascades of lakes with crystal-clear emerald water. Such a landscape can be seen 110 km from Barcelona in the Pyrenees.
Pantà de Sau and Tavertet cliffs are beautiful and unusual places 10 km from the capital of Catalonia. In 1962, the Ter River was dammed, and the resulting reservoir engulfed the village of Sant Romà de Sau with its 11th-century church. The reason for the flooding was Barcelona’s increasing need for drinking water and electricity. The reservoir features hotels, camping sites, viewing platforms, and beaches.
The wine regions Priorat and Alt Penedès are famous for their good wines and stunning landscapes. They are about 50 km away from Barcelona. Penedès is the birthplace of the famous cava. The most well-known producers of this sparkling wine are Codorníu, headquartered in Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, and Freixenet, which is also produced in this city. The wines of Priorat have long held an honorable place in the world of winemaking.
Annual festivals and celebrations in Barcelona and its surroundings
- Cavalcade of the Magi (Cavalcada dels Reis Mags) is a costumed street parade. It takes place on January 5;
- Three Kings’ Day (Dia de Reis) is celebrated on January 6. On this day, Spanish children receive gifts from the Magi;
- Calçotada Onion Festival (Gran Festa de la Calçotada) takes place at the end of February. The main Calçotada is held in Valls;
- Barcelona Carnival (Carnestoltes) is celebrated at the end of February – early March;
- Saint Eulalia Festival (Festes de Santa Eulàlia) occurs on February 12. You’ll see live statues and giant dolls, and fireworks will be launched in the evening;
- A beer festival is held in mid-March in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat at the Centre d’activitats de la Farga;
- Semana Santa is a religious holiday during the pre-Easter Holy Week;
- Easter (Pasqua) is celebrated in April. For the holiday, chocolate eggs or entire chocolate compositions are given as gifts;
- Saint George’s Day (Diada de Sant Jordi) is the Catalan equivalent of Valentine’s Day, during which it’s customary to give women roses and men books, held on April 23;
- The Spanish Grand Prix (Gran Premi d’Espanya de Fórmula 1) is a Formula 1 race that takes place on the Catalunya Circuit (Montmeló) usually in April–May;
- The annual Flower Festival (Temps de Flors) opens in Girona in mid-May;
- Primavera Sound is an annual music festival by the sea in early June;
- Sónar is an annual festival of electronic music and multimedia arts in mid-June;
- The Bonfires of Saint John (Fogueres de Sant Joan) is a celebration equivalent to our Ivan Kupala. In Spain, it is celebrated on June 24;
- The Gràcia Festival (La Fiesta de Gràcia) is expected in August. It is a street decoration contest;
- August 15 – a church holiday, the Assumption of Mary (Assumpció de Maria). Church services, processions, and theatrical performances are held everywhere;
- The Poblenou and Horta neighborhood festivals take place in the first half of September. You will see a parade of giant puppets, human tower building called castells, and the street show correfoc with devils, fire, and pyrotechnics;
- September 11 — National Day of Catalonia (Diada Nacional de Catalunya). Residents dress in the colors of the Spanish flag, march through the central streets of the city, and hold demonstrations and concerts;
- The La Mercè Festival (La Mercè) lasts for an entire week, but its climax is considered to be September 24. The festival is dedicated to the patroness of Barcelona, Our Lady of Mercy (Mare de Déu de la Mercè);
- October 12 — National Day of Spain (Fiesta nacional de España) and the Day of the Virgin of Pilar (Fiestas del Pilar). Celebrations last for 6 days;
- In October, the Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival (Festival Internacional de Cinema Fantàstic de Catalunya) takes place;
- The International Jazz Festival (Festival Internacional de Jazz de Barcelona) is held from October to November. Jazz is heard everywhere – in pubs, squares, parks, and concert halls.
- The Immaculate Conception Day (Festa de la Immaculada Concepció) is celebrated on December 8;
- On December 25, Barcelonians celebrate Christmas with family;
- December 26 — Saint Stephen’s Day, a gift-giving day. It is a Spanish tradition to give gifts and spread good cheer;
- December 31 – New Year’s Eve (Nit de cap d’any) is celebrated noisily and joyfully. People observe the tradition of seeing a man with multiple noses (home dels nassos) and eating 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight.
Is it safe in Barcelona?
Impunity and the indifference of city authorities have led to a situation where thieves and pickpockets feel quite comfortable in Barcelona. You must be very vigilant not to fall prey to the petty thieves. Keep an eye on your backpacks and mobile phones!
Do they speak English well?
In tourist areas, English is spoken well.
What to bring back from Barcelona?
- Fuet and xoriço — traditional Spanish sausages;
- jamón – dry-cured ham;
- cheeses: Betara (goat creamy grey cheese), Queso Tupi (soft spicy cheese with a hint of alcohol and green olives), Alt Urgell i la Cerdanya (creamy and soft-tasting), Tou del Tillers (similar to French Brie), Mató de Montserrat (fresh dessert cheese), Costa Negra (covered with a black rind, white and homogeneous inside), Serrat (yellow hard sheep cheese), Drap (sweet-tasting), Tupi (dessert cheese), Garrotxa and Montsec (soft goat cheeses aged under a layer of ash);
- sparkling wine Cava, sangria, white or red wine;
- porró – a glass or clay vessel for consuming wine;
- olive oil;
- sauces: allioli, romesco, brava, garum;
- spices: chili pepper, saffron, paprika, fennel, coriander, parsley, cilantro;
- chocolate, turrón, carqinyolis cookies;
- Tealosophy tea;
- natural cosmetics: Matarrania, Amapola, Dulkamara;
- sports merchandise: clothing, balls, towels, backpacks, and other useful items adorned with the FC Barcelona logo;
- espadrilles – lightweight summer shoes with a jute rope sole;
- Munich sneakers and Kokua ballet flats;
- clothing brands Desigual, Custo Barcelona;
- Catalan lace;
- leather goods: shoes, bags, wallets, belts, wine skins with Spanish symbolism;
- caganer – a small figurine depicting a man defecating;
- fan – not only a means of protection from the heat but also a beautiful accessory;
- castanets – percussion instrument, an attribute of flamenco dance;
- Gaudí-style souvenirs (replicas of his works, lizard figures from Park Güell, tea mugs, a book about the architect);
- handmade ceramics with a touch of modernism, sold in the shops of the Gothic Quarter.
What to see in Barcelona in winter?
For optimal weather conditions and affordable prices, choose a winter vacation in Barcelona. In winter, you can see the city from a different perspective: homely cozy and without thousands of visitors storming the sights. Where to go, what to see in winter?
- See Barcelona’s sights and visit museums without the lines.
- On a sunny day, visit one of the city beaches to enjoy traditional paella outdoors with a view of the sea.
- If you prefer colder temperatures, visit Barcelona’s ice bar on the beach near the Olympic Port. There is a room with temperatures below 0°, filled with amazing ice sculptures.
- Listen to jazz at one of the venues of the Jazz Festival.
- Visit Christmas markets and feel the magical holiday atmosphere.
- Go ice skating in Plaça de Catalunya.
- Try «winter» soups, meat stews, and sea urchin (a large catch of urchins occurs in January), drink hot chocolate with churros, taste traditional Christmas dishes – cannelloni, the cream-filled sugar pastry Xuixo, and the cake Roscón de Reyes.
- Ring in the New Year with a glass of Cava.
- How about a winter swim on December 25th for Christmas? Copa Nadal de natació – amateur 200m swimming competitions, held in the port of Barcelona in front of the Christopher Columbus statue.
- Go shopping. The sales season starts in January.
- There are several holidays in winter. They are all colorful and bright: with costumed street processions, theatrical performances, artist performances, holiday markets, and fireworks. Join the fun.
- Strolling through Ciutadella Park, you’ll enjoy the tranquility and leisurely atmosphere, beautiful architecture of the park, many parrots, mandarin trees, and palms. Visit the zoo.
- From the Bunkers del Carmel viewpoint, sitting on the stones in the semi-wild park, take in the perfect layout of the Eixample district streets, the Agbar and Mapfre towers, the port, the Sagrada Familia, the Cathedral, the skyscrapers of the Olympic Port, Montjuïc Hill.
- Discover the theaters of Barcelona.
- Make a pilgrimage to the Montserrat Monastery. The mountains look even more beautiful in winter.
If I missed something interesting, I’m waiting for your advice in the comments.
From which cities is it cheapest to fly to Barcelona
Many airlines fly from Barcelona to over 130 international destinations and about 30 domestic destinations. The cheapest flights are from Geneva, Nice, Milan, and London.
It’s convenient to fly to Barcelona with a stopover in Istanbul, Helsinki, or Riga. Check the list of the cheapest routes for the year ahead on lowcost.pro.
- Барселона
- Barcelona
- GPS: 41,39479 2,1487679