Barcelona
Temperature
14°
Time
10:41 PM
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 Gràcia, admire Gaudí'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
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.
One of the most popular and visited museums in Barcelona, the Picasso Museum offers valuable insight into the formative years of the renowned 20th-century Spanish artist. The museum houses a permanent collection of over 4,000 pieces, showcasing Picasso's connection to Barcelona and its impact on his artistic development.
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 du 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!
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.
The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) hosts many temporary exhibits throughout the year, but it is also known for its Romanesque collection of mural paintings. Here you can also find pieces like Gaudi's furniture or illustration from Casas and other artists of Catalan Modernism.
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. Visited by tourists and locals, particularly as an after-work spot, Barceloneta Beach stretches from the Hotel Vela on the harbour-side for around 2 kilometres up to the Hotel Arts on the Puerto Olimpíco. Between these two landmarks, the fine sands and the beach promenade are particularly inviting for cyclists, joggers, and inline skaters.
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.
One of the most popular and visited museums in Barcelona, the Picasso Museum offers valuable insight into the formative years of the renowned 20th-century Spanish artist. The museum houses a permanent collection of over 4,000 pieces, showcasing Picasso's connection to Barcelona and its impact on his artistic development.
Els 4Gats is an iconic and historic restaurant, which opened on June 12th 1897 and served as a meeting point for the great artists and intellectuals of Barcelona, including Ramon Casas and Pablo Picasso. The latter had his first exhibition of drawings here and designed the cover art for the menu that is still used to this day. Housed in a modernist neo-Gothic building, just a few minutes from the Palau de la Música Catalana, Els 4Gats offers Catalan cuisine in a bohemian atmosphere with regular, live piano sessions.
Cal Pep is a very popular tapas bar and restaurant near the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar. It is best to jostle your way to the counter seats and let Pep himself recommend the best hors d'oeuvres. Otherwise, there are also tables and a quieter dining room further in. On offer is a mixture of traditional and innovative cooking with a focus on seafood & fish.
Unpretentious Asian restaurant specialised in Thai cuisine offering curries, stir-fries, plus Singha beer in a cosy atmosphere in the heart of the Gràcia neighbourhood.
El Filete Ruso is a grill house, near Casa Milà, serving organic meats, juicy burgers, steak tartare, entrecôte, and tapas in a cosy atmosphere. Enjoy your meal on the lovely terrace and watch the world go by.
The wide range of bars and restaurants in Poble Espanyol allows you to discover the variety and richness of Spanish cuisine. Enjoying authentic paella or delicious tapas in a peaceful environment is quite an experience. And if the weather permits, why not relax on one of the pleasant terraces too?
Vrutal is a vegan restaurant, in the Poble Nou district, serving house-made burgers and healthy bowls, plus cocktails. The Blind Date burger and the crispy cauliflower wings come highly recommended.
UMA is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative tasting menus in a charming and exclusive environment. From the presentation of the dishes to the flavour combinations to the well-thought-out wine pairing, dining at UMA will be an experience you will not forget.
Tucked away on a small side street, Blavis offers a truly unique culinary experience in an intimate and cosy atmosphere. The owners, Paco and Marc, are an attentive and warm duo. Together they offer simple yet mouthwatering tapas dishes with Italian and Japanese influences. The place is indeed small and seats only 18 people, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Els 4Gats is an iconic and historic restaurant, which opened on June 12th 1897 and served as a meeting point for the great artists and intellectuals of Barcelona, including Ramon Casas and Pablo Picasso. The latter had his first exhibition of drawings here and designed the cover art for the menu that is still used to this day. Housed in a modernist neo-Gothic building, just a few minutes from the Palau de la Música Catalana, Els 4Gats offers Catalan cuisine in a bohemian atmosphere with regular, live piano sessions.
Cal Pep is a very popular tapas bar and restaurant near the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar. It is best to jostle your way to the counter seats and let Pep himself recommend the best hors d'oeuvres. Otherwise, there are also tables and a quieter dining room further in. On offer is a mixture of traditional and innovative cooking with a focus on seafood & fish.
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 eateries.
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 such as Adolfo Domínguez, Armand Basi, Groc, and the leather specialist Loewe. More economic 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.
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.
Mercat dels Encants is a long-running flea market selling countless treasures under a mirrored roof location near the imposing Agbar Tower. Also known as Barcelona's Encants Vells or Mercat de Bellcaire, the Mercat dels Encants is one of the oldest markets in Europe, dating back to the fourteenth century – a great example of Barcelona's commercial dynamism. Here you will find everything from books, jewellery and clothing to furniture, art, and random knick-knacks. Come early to find the best-hidden gems and prepare your best haggling skills.
Housed on a 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.
Visiting the La Boquería Market, halfway down La Rambla, is something of a must. The 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.
Not far from each other on Avinguda Diagonal, you will find two shopping malls with plenty of shopping, dining, and leisure options. Westfield Glòries is a modern shopping centre, in front of the famous Agbar Tower, featuring a large selection of shops spread out on different levels, some indoors and others outdoors, plus restaurants, a large supermarket, and a movie theatre. A little bit further, the Centre Comercial Diagonal Mar is another contemporary and spacious shopping mall offering a range of shops, eateries and services as well as a cinema and a supermarket.
Grey Street is a cute little shop offering a well-curated selection of one-of-a-kind and quirky gifts from local artists and a few international ones, right in the heart of the Raval neighbourhood.
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 eateries.
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 such as Adolfo Domínguez, Armand Basi, Groc, and the leather specialist Loewe. More economic 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.
Barcelona, the second-largest city in Spain, is the first tourist destination of the country, ahead of its rival Madrid. The city is particularly appreciated for its climate because it enjoys beautiful and sunny days eight months per year. It is popular with tourists from around the world during the two summer months because of its high temperatures, which can reach up to 37°C. The many nearby beaches are perfect for a swim after a long day of sightseeing but expect a busy crowd. Spring and autumn are, therefore, the best time to visit Barcelona. During these seasons, you can enjoy the sun and the beautiful and shining days away from the holidaymakers of July and August. Besides, the prices are more affordable, so it is easier to find a place to eat and sleep. It is also possible to explore the Catalan capital during the winter because the climate is cool, but the temperatures are still mild. You will not find negative temperatures or frosts at this time of the year.
Is Barcelona a safe city? Yes. Although Barcelona is a big city – the second-largest in Spain and the most visited city 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, the capital of Catalonia, 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. As of today, the average cost per traveller in Barcelona is between €90-120 per day. 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.
Spain can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport, also known as Barcelona Airport or simply El Prat Airport, Barcelona’s main airport, is located 13 km southwest of the city centre. Aerobus serves both terminals every 5 minutes before leaving for the city centre with stops at Plaça Espanya, Plaça Universitat, and Plaça Catalunya. A one-way Aerobus ticket costs 5.90€ (10.20€ for a round trip) and the trip takes about 25 minutes to reach the city centre. Local trains leave for Barcelona every 30 minutes (from the train station next to terminal 2). From terminal 1 to terminal 2 there is a free connecting shuttle bus that takes around 10 minutes. The train takes about 30 minutes to Barcelona's Sants station and the ticket costs 4 €. Taxis are available just outside the terminals. The price depends on traffic, luggage, day of the week and time. Consult the airport website to learn more about other public transport routes servicing the airport.
Girona airport lies about 100 km from the centre of Barcelona, and there are three ways of getting between the two places. Buses will take you to Estacio d’Autobusos Barcelona Nord. They depart on a schedule based on the flights' arrival times. Prices for a one-way ticket start from 16 €. A taxi to Barcelona city centre may cost around 125 €, so a better option might be to stay overnight at Girona and travel by bus the next day. There are also trains to and from Barcelona from central Girona but you will have to find a solution to get from Girona train station to the airport.
Tickets for the underground and trams can be bought from travel information booths and from stations. They are valid for one trip. Bus tickets are bought from the driver. There is also a selection of different travel cards to purchase if you know that you will be travelling a lot.
Barcelona’s black and yellow taxis can be hailed on the street, at stations or called by telephone. Standard fares apply between 6am and 10pm from Monday to Friday. At all other times, including public holidays, fares are higher. Remember that drivers often have minimal small change and do not take credit cards. Barnataxi: +34 933 22 22 22 Ràdio Taxi: +34 933 03 30 33 Another option for lower fares is the rideshare company Uber.
The post offices in Spain are called "Correos" (Correu in Catalan). Stamps can be purchased from post offices and kiosks - "Estancos". The main post office is located at Plaça d'Antonio López, near the Barceloneta metro station, and it is open from Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 8:30 pm.
Barcelona, the second-largest city in Spain, is the first tourist destination of the country, ahead of its rival Madrid. The city is particularly appreciated for its climate because it enjoys beautiful and sunny days eight months per year. It is popular with tourists from around the world during the two summer months because of its high temperatures, which can reach up to 37°C. The many nearby beaches are perfect for a swim after a long day of sightseeing but expect a busy crowd. Spring and autumn are, therefore, the best time to visit Barcelona. During these seasons, you can enjoy the sun and the beautiful and shining days away from the holidaymakers of July and August. Besides, the prices are more affordable, so it is easier to find a place to eat and sleep. It is also possible to explore the Catalan capital during the winter because the climate is cool, but the temperatures are still mild. You will not find negative temperatures or frosts at this time of the year.
Is Barcelona a safe city? Yes. Although Barcelona is a big city – the second-largest in Spain and the most visited city 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, the capital of Catalonia, 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. As of today, the average cost per traveller in Barcelona is between €90-120 per day. 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.
