Barcelona
Temperature
27°
Time
3:50 AM
Barcelona
Impressive architecture and hip restaurants meet a sunny Spanish climate and beautiful beaches. This has transformed Barcelona, in just a few decades, from a rough port city into one of Europe's — if not the world's — premier destinations. Stroll along La Rambla and Passeig de Grà cia, admire GaudÃ's masterpieces, visit the colourful Market of La Boqueria, lose yourself in the Gothic Quarter, bask in the sun at Barceloneta beach, and discover some of the city's vibrant late-night haunts while you're at it.Find your trip
Barcelona's most well-known street is unofficially not just one uninterrupted stretch but five – hence the name 'Las Ramblas' – each containing attractions of its own. A tree-lined, pedestrian-only walkway running through the street's central section, with street artists, souvenir vendors, bars and restaurants competing for visitors' attention.
Hop on the Barcelona City Tour Bus and discover all the highlights that make this Mediterranean city so special. From the modernist buildings and the great cuisine to the Olympic City and the Mediterranean Sea: it's all Barcelona. The air-conditioned double-decker open coaches travel all around the city, stopping at the most famous attractions including the Sagrada Familia and the Arc de Triomf. There is a multilingual audio guide system and individual headphones as well as free Wi-Fi onboard. Hop on or off wherever you choose from one route to another. Because it can be very busy at the ticket offices, buy your ticket online now and hop on at the location of your choice.
Two of Barcelona's most popular beaches, Mar Bella & Bogatell are just a few minutes apart. Mar Bella is a naturist and gay-friendly beach, while Bogatell is known for volleyball and sunbathing. Both are located within walking distance of trendy bars and restaurants. However, the most popular beach in Barcelona is Barceloneta, mainly for its proximity to the city centre. Stretching approximately 1.1 kilometres from the iconic W Hotel (Hotel Vela) to Port Olímpic, Barceloneta Beach attracts both tourists and locals, especially after work. The fine sands and beach promenade are particularly inviting for cyclists, joggers, and inline skaters. For a more laid-back beach experience, Nova Icària near Port Olímpic is a top choice. Known for its calm waters and excellent facilities, it’s a popular spot for families and those looking to relax without the crowds of Barceloneta. If you’re seeking an even quieter escape, head to Ocata Beach in El Masnou, just a 20-minute train ride north of the city. With its expansive golden sands and tranquil atmosphere, Ocata provides the perfect setting to unwind away from the urban buzz.
The Picasso Museum in Barcelona is one of the city’s most visited cultural gems, offering a fascinating glimpse into the early years of one of the world’s most influential artists. With a permanent collection of over 4,000 works, the museum highlights Picasso’s deep connection to Barcelona, a city that played a key role in shaping his artistic evolution. The collection spans his formative years, showcasing a variety of styles and periods that reveal the development of his unique creative vision.
Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona's 'green lung', is not only the most central park in the city but also a park that includes a zoo, a lake, a large fountain, and a couple of museums. In the centre of the park, you will even find the building where the Catalan Parliament is seated. So take a walk, have a picnic, and enjoy this very lusciously green and well-maintained park.
When in Spain, why not take the opportunity to learn how to cook authentic Spanish food in a relaxed and fun atmosphere? Join this cooking class where you'll learn how to make Spanish tapas, traditional paella, and sangria with a Barcelona chef, while you get the chance to meet new friends from around the world.
FC Barcelona is much more than just a football club. Sometimes it feels as if it carries the whole nation's pride on its shoulders. Even those not interested in football will enjoy a visit to the grandiose Camp Nou, the largest stadium in Europe, with a seating capacity of 99,354 spectators. Follow in the footsteps of football legends from past and present by taking a tour of the stadium and then visiting the FC Barcelona Museum to learn all about the club's history, see its trophy collection, the press room, the presidential box, and the locker room.
The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) is a must-visit for art lovers, offering a sweeping journey through Catalonia’s artistic heritage. While the museum is famous for its remarkable collection of Romanesque mural paintings – some of the finest in Europe – it also houses a diverse range of works. Highlights include Gaudí-designed furniture and illustrations by Ramón Casas, alongside other masterpieces of Catalan Modernism.
Barcelona's most well-known street is unofficially not just one uninterrupted stretch but five – hence the name 'Las Ramblas' – each containing attractions of its own. A tree-lined, pedestrian-only walkway running through the street's central section, with street artists, souvenir vendors, bars and restaurants competing for visitors' attention.
Hop on the Barcelona City Tour Bus and discover all the highlights that make this Mediterranean city so special. From the modernist buildings and the great cuisine to the Olympic City and the Mediterranean Sea: it's all Barcelona. The air-conditioned double-decker open coaches travel all around the city, stopping at the most famous attractions including the Sagrada Familia and the Arc de Triomf. There is a multilingual audio guide system and individual headphones as well as free Wi-Fi onboard. Hop on or off wherever you choose from one route to another. Because it can be very busy at the ticket offices, buy your ticket online now and hop on at the location of your choice.
If you're looking for some serious fashion shopping, then make your way to Passeig de Gràcia, the parallel street, Rambla de Catalunya, and the surrounding district. You'll find all the big international fashion names here, including Spanish greats like Adolfo Domínguez, Armand Basi, Groc, and the leather specialist Loewe. More affordable alternatives such as Zara, Mango, and Massimo Dutti are also represented here. You can also find a good selection of trend-conscious designer fashions at Noténom.
Avinguda del Portal de l'Àngel is a crowded, pedestrian-only avenue in the heart of Barcelona, known as one of the best addresses for shopping in the city. Throughout this long avenue, which stretches from the always busy Plaça Catalunya to the historic Gothic Quarter, you'll find plenty of global retailers such as Bershka, Pull & Bear, H&M, Desigual, another El Corte Inglés, Zara, Disney Store, Massimo Dutti, Benetton, as well as a handful of souvenir shops.
Spain's department store colossus is both loved and hated, but successfully performs the main task of a department store, which is to offer most things to most people. Designer fashions, their own low and medium-priced lines, enormous perfumery and make-up departments, accessories, toys, children's and baby's clothes, art materials, souvenirs, food and delicatessen, household furniture and decorations, electrical goods, books, and a range of services can be found here. The largest El Corte Inglés in Barcelona is situated in Plaça Catalunya.
Visiting the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, or simply La Boqueria, is something of a must. Located halfway down La Rambla, this historic and colourful market is one of the city's main attractions, and it offers everything when it comes to food – from fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and sweets to meat, fish, and cheese. The place is also popular for lunch, a quick bite, or a refreshing glass of cava.
Mercat dels Encants, also called Encants Vells or Mercat de Bellcaire, is one of Europe’s oldest flea markets, tracing its roots back to the 14th century. Situated near the striking Agbar Tower, its distinctive mirrored roof shelters a sprawling array of treasures. The market offers an eclectic mix of goods, from books, jewellery, and clothing to furniture, art, and quirky knick-knacks. It’s a haven for bargain hunters and vintage lovers alike. Arriving early is key to snagging the best finds before the crowds descend.
Housed on the site of a former bullfighting ring near Montjuïc, Arenas de Barcelona is a beautiful shopping complex boasting plenty of shops, eateries, a cinema, a large supermarket, and best of all, a 360 rooftop view of the city.
Westfield Glòries and Centre Comercial Diagonal Mar are two popular shopping malls located along the Avinguda Diagonal, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and leisure options. Westfield Glòries, situated near the iconic Agbar Tower, blends indoor and outdoor spaces across multiple levels, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, a supermarket, and a cinema. Further along the avenue, Centre Comercial Diagonal Mar boasts a similarly spacious setup with a wide selection of stores, eateries, a cinema, and even a supermarket for convenience. Both malls are great options for a shopping spree or a relaxed day out.
Grey Street is a cute little shop offering a well-curated selection of one-of-a-kind and quirky gifts, such as ceramics, illustrations, and jewellery from local artists and a few international ones, right in the heart of the Raval neighbourhood.
If you're looking for some serious fashion shopping, then make your way to Passeig de Gràcia, the parallel street, Rambla de Catalunya, and the surrounding district. You'll find all the big international fashion names here, including Spanish greats like Adolfo Domínguez, Armand Basi, Groc, and the leather specialist Loewe. More affordable alternatives such as Zara, Mango, and Massimo Dutti are also represented here. You can also find a good selection of trend-conscious designer fashions at Noténom.
Avinguda del Portal de l'Àngel is a crowded, pedestrian-only avenue in the heart of Barcelona, known as one of the best addresses for shopping in the city. Throughout this long avenue, which stretches from the always busy Plaça Catalunya to the historic Gothic Quarter, you'll find plenty of global retailers such as Bershka, Pull & Bear, H&M, Desigual, another El Corte Inglés, Zara, Disney Store, Massimo Dutti, Benetton, as well as a handful of souvenir shops.
The best time to visit Barcelona is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to early November). The weather is pleasantly warm, typically ranging from 17°C to 25°C, perfect for exploring the city's attractions like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell or enjoying the beach without the summer crowds. Spring ushers in the city's vibrant festival season, with highlights like La Feria de Abril de Catalunya, a lively Andalusian fair, and the Sant Jordi Festival in April, celebrating books and roses. In autumn, the La Mercè Festival in late September steals the spotlight with parades, concerts, and fireworks.
Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport is situated approximately 14 kilometres southwest of Barcelona's city centre, a journey that typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on the chosen mode of transport and traffic conditions. Travellers have several options to reach the city: The Aerobús provides a direct shuttle service from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to central locations like Plaça Catalunya and Plaça Espanya, with departures every 5 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, the R2 Nord train line connects Terminal 2 to key city stations such as Barcelona-Sants and Passeig de Gràcia in about 20 minutes. For those preferring underground travel, Metro Line L9 Sud serves both terminals, though reaching central areas requires transfers and may take up to 50 minutes. Public buses, including Line 46, offer economical routes to the city, albeit with longer travel times. Taxis are readily available at designated ranks outside the arrival areas of each terminal. Additionally, ride-hailing services like Uber operate at the airport, with pick-up points in specified parking areas.
Girona–Costa Brava Airport is located approximately 90 kilometres northeast of Barcelona, translating to a journey of about 1 hour by car. Travellers can reach Barcelona via a direct bus service operated by Sagalés, which departs from the airport and arrives at Barcelona's Estació d'Autobusos Nord in approximately 75 minutes. Buses run every three to four hours, with schedules coordinated with flight arrivals. Alternatively, taxis are available at the airport, though this option is more costly.
Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Spain, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.
Public transport in Barcelona is extensive, efficient, and one of the best ways for tourists to explore the city. The network includes buses, trams, and the subway (known locally as the Metro), all operated by Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB). The Metro is particularly useful for quickly getting around key areas of the city, including popular attractions, while buses cover areas the Metro doesn't reach. Trams are an excellent option for travelling along the waterfront and some suburban areas. For tourists, the T10 ticket is a convenient and cost-effective option, offering ten single journeys on the Metro, buses, and trams. Additionally, the Barcelona Card provides unlimited travel on public transport, including discounts on various attractions, making it ideal for longer stays or those planning to visit several sites. For information on fares, routes, and timetables, visit the TMB's official website.
- Is Barcelona a safe city? Yes. Although Barcelona is a big city – the second-largest in Spain and a top tourist destination in the country – it is still considered a fairly safe place for tourists. However, as with most popular tourist destinations, such as Paris, pickpockets and bag thieves are the biggest concerns here. So be careful when walking around and taking pictures near major tourist attractions, such as La Rambla, Plaça Catalunya, and La Sagrada Familia. - What is Barcelona famous for? Barcelona is famous for its remarkable architecture, gold-sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, world-class cuisine, and, of course, its local football team, commonly known as Barça. - Is Barcelona expensive? Yes, Barcelona is quite expensive to visit but still more affordable when compared to other European destinations, such as Paris, London, and Rome. - How many days do you need for Barcelona? First-time travellers should try and plan around 4-5 days – enough time to visit the city's main attractions, explore its characterful neighbourhoods and still have time to kick back and relax at the beach.
Taxis in Barcelona are easy to find and can be hailed on the street or picked up at designated taxi ranks throughout the city. The iconic yellow and black taxis are a familiar sight and are equipped with a meter, so fares are regulated. In addition to traditional taxis, ride-sharing apps like Cabify, Bolt, and Uber operate in the city, offering a convenient alternative to taxis.
In Barcelona, post offices (Correos) typically operate from 8:30am to 2:30pm, Monday to Friday, though some branches extend their hours and open on Saturday mornings. The main post office, Correos Central, located in the Plaça d’Antonio López near Via Laietana, offers longer opening hours, often from 8:30am to 8:30pm on weekdays. This central location makes it convenient for travellers. Post offices in Barcelona provide a range of services, including sending letters and parcels domestically and internationally, purchasing stamps, and using express mail services like Correos Exprés. They also offer packaging materials and prepaid envelopes, currency exchange services, and bill payments. For quick and simple transactions, yellow mailboxes on the streets are available for posting letters.
The best time to visit Barcelona is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to early November). The weather is pleasantly warm, typically ranging from 17°C to 25°C, perfect for exploring the city's attractions like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell or enjoying the beach without the summer crowds. Spring ushers in the city's vibrant festival season, with highlights like La Feria de Abril de Catalunya, a lively Andalusian fair, and the Sant Jordi Festival in April, celebrating books and roses. In autumn, the La Mercè Festival in late September steals the spotlight with parades, concerts, and fireworks.
Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport is situated approximately 14 kilometres southwest of Barcelona's city centre, a journey that typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on the chosen mode of transport and traffic conditions. Travellers have several options to reach the city: The Aerobús provides a direct shuttle service from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to central locations like Plaça Catalunya and Plaça Espanya, with departures every 5 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, the R2 Nord train line connects Terminal 2 to key city stations such as Barcelona-Sants and Passeig de Gràcia in about 20 minutes. For those preferring underground travel, Metro Line L9 Sud serves both terminals, though reaching central areas requires transfers and may take up to 50 minutes. Public buses, including Line 46, offer economical routes to the city, albeit with longer travel times. Taxis are readily available at designated ranks outside the arrival areas of each terminal. Additionally, ride-hailing services like Uber operate at the airport, with pick-up points in specified parking areas.
