Barcelona Travel Guide
Are you planning a trip to Barcelona? Find all my best travel guide to Barcelona to help plan your trip!
Barcelona is packed with iconic architecture, historical neighborhoods, great food, and a coastline that makes it feel like a beach destination as much as a city break.
While Barcelona has a lot to offer, it is also a place that can easily start to feel a bit overwhelming.
This Barcelona travel guide is your one-stop to help you plan and organize your visit! Especially if it is your first time visiting Barcelona.
The guide is designed to make your Barcelona travel experience smoother and more enjoyable with practical tips, honest advice, and a few personal opinions to help you navigate the city like someone who’s actually been living there.
I’m all about getting under the skin of Barcelona for you to experience the unique sites and experiences! So, here’s what we are going to explore together in this complete Barcelona Travel Guide.
You can jump around in the sections as you like check out my additional Barcelona resources as you wish!
- Explore Barcelona in More Detail
- Where is Barcelona?
- What Language Do They Speak in Barcelona?
- How Long Do You Need in Barcelona?
- When is the Best Time to Visit Barcelona?
- Is Barcelona Safe for Tourists?
- What to Pack for Barcelona?
- Useful Apps to Download
- What Is the Best Way to Get to Barcelona?
- How Do You Get From the Airport to Barcelona?
- What to Do in Barcelona?
- Where to Stay in Barcelona?
- What Food to Try in Barcelona?
- Walking in Barcelona
- Uber & Cabify in Barcelona
- Taxis in Barcelona
- Public Transportation in Barcelona
Are You Planning a Trip to Barcelona?
This is Your Detailed Barcelona Travel Guide From an Expat!
Hola!
I’m Becci, a Danish travel blogger and long-term expat! I have been living abroad for more than 10 years, and in 2023, I moved to Barcelona.
This Barcelona Travel Guide is my compiled resource of everything I have learned over the years living in Barcelona!
Do you have a question? Reach out or connect with me on social media!
Getting to Know Barcelona
Barcelona At A Glance
Let’s start by getting to know some of the facts about Barcelona before diving into the details of this Barcelona travel guide.
Barcelona Facts
Where is Barcelona?
Barcelona is the capital city of the Spanish region of Catalonia, and Spain’s second-largest city after Madrid.
Barcelona is located in the Northeastern part of Spain towards the French border.
Barcelona is located with the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the Collserola mountain range, Parc Natural de Collserola, on the other side.
In Catalan, the local language of Catalonia, the region’s name is spelled Catalunya. Many locals have a strong feeling of national pride towards their region of origin, and around Barcelona, you might also notice Catalan flags hanging from balconies
Barcelona Map
What Language Do They Speak in Barcelona?
Barcelona is a bilingual city where both Spanish and Catalan are official languages.
Catalan isn’t just a “version” of Spanish; it’s a completely separate language! Even though you’ll notice a few familiar words here and there, Catalan is a different language.
For me, Catalan sounds a bit like if Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Italian all had a baby together.
For many people in Catalonia and Barcelona, Catalan is a huge part of their cultural identity. It’s not just a language they speak, but something they genuinely care deeply about, so it’s worth being aware of and respectful of that when you visit.
You’ll find that many street signs and instructions are both in Catalan and Spanish (and sometimes only in Catalan).
In the popular tourist areas, English is widely spoken. However, in more local areas, you might find that locals push for speaking Catalan.
Should You Learn Some Spanish Before Visiting Barcelona?
I strongly recommend you learn some basic phrases of Spanish or Catalan before visiting Barcelona.
While you can get around Barcelona with only English, learning a few sentences of Spanish or Catalan can be a great way to show respect towards locals during your visit.
A good way to prepare for your trip to Barcelona is by taking a few online Spanish classes at Italki.
Basic Catalan Words to Know for Your Barcelona Trip
Here are a couple of easy, basic Catalan words that will help you get by in Barcelona – and bring a smile to locals for trying to embrace their language.
Adéu – Goodbye
Adéu is the Catalan word you’ll hear the most in Barcelona!
Adéu translates to goodbye in English. Most locals in Barcelona will say adéu as goodbye, no matter what language you have been speaking to them.
You can often hear locals mixing Spanish and Catalan, and even if a whole conversation has been going on in Spanish, they will most likely end it off with an adéu.
Adéu is a small and easy word to learn before traveling to Barcelona, and you will definitely please some locals by known just a little Catalan on your trip to Barcelona
Gracies / Merci – Thank you
In the Catalan language, locals use gracies and merci as thank you.
Gracies lies closer to the Spanish word “gracias,” and it might be easier to remember if you know some Spanish already.
On the other hand, merci lies closer to French, and personally, for me, it was more difficult to get used to saying Merci for thank you than gracies. But both are equally valid and used to say thank you in Catalan.
Si us plau – Please
Si us plau means please in Catalan, and it’s a very useful Catalan phrase to know before traveling to Barcelona.
You can use si us plau to add a little Catalan flavor if you, for example, are asking to pass somebody on the street or in the metro.
De res – You’re welcome
The Catalan phrase De res translates best to “You are welcome” in English or the Spanish “de nada”.
De res is a nice, short, and easy phrase to learn before traveling to Barcelona, and it might come in handy during your travels.
Em sap grau – I’m sorry
Em sap grau in Catalan means I’m sorry or apologies.
It might be a bit difficult to remember, and honestly, I never got used to using it when living in Barcelona (also because I was a bit afraid to add too much Catalan to my Spanish and be confused for actually speaking Catalan, which I definitely don’t!
Before you Go
Planning Your Barcelona Trip
There are many things to consider when preparing your trip to Barcelona. In this section, I will explore some of the important things you need to know when you start to plan.
How Long Do You Need in Barcelona?
I recommend at least one weekend or three days in Barcelona.
You can see the main attractions in one day in Barcelona if you plan your schedule very tightly, but I wouldn’t recommend it.
Barcelona offers many popular things to do, and to get a better feeling of the city, I believe three to four days in Barcelona is a good minimum.
If you really want to get under the skin of Barcelona, and also have time to explore the city’s hidden gems and many day trip destinations, you can easily spend a week or two exploring Barcelona.
When is the Best Time to Visit Barcelona?
My favorite time to visit Barcelona is in the autumn and winter (September through March).
Autumns in Barcelona mostly keep the summer’s high temperatures during the day, but it tends to cool down during the evening. In autumn, the worst crowds are also disappearing, and it will get easier to get entrance tickets to popular attractions.
The winters in Barcelona are mild with temperatures around 15-10 degrees, and less crowds than in the summer, and there are still many things to do and see in Barcelona in winter.
The summers (June through August) are the peak season in Barcelona, but honestly, I would not recommend going to Barcelona in the summer if you can avoid it!
The struggles with over-tourism are real in Barcelona during the summer, and it can be difficult (sometimes almost impossible) to get entrance tickets to popular attractions, get around public transportation, and in some areas like the Gothic Quarter, the streets will be so crowded that it can be hard to get around.
Add on top of this, the summers in Barcelona are warm (normally 30 to 35 degrees) and very humid.
I would only visit Barcelona in the summer if you plan it as part of a longer trip around Spain or combine it with a trip to Costa Brava and its coastal towns.
Is Barcelona Safe for Tourists?
Barcelona is generally a safe city for tourists, but honestly, pickpocketing is the one issue you really need to take seriously here.
The risk is highest in very touristy areas like La Rambla, around the Gothic Quarter, and on public transport, especially the metro.
My best advice is to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid flashing valuables. Keep your phone and camera tucked away in your bag when you’re not actively using them, and you’ll already be ahead of the game.
That said, to put things into perspective: I lived in Barcelona for two years and never got robbed or pickpocketed once.
But full transparency, I spent seven years living in Latin America, so I’m pretty sure I’ve developed a strong sixth sense for spotting pickpockets before they get anywhere near me.
What to Pack for Barcelona?
Barcelona is generally a city where people dress very casually, so you don’t need to bring your finest dresses or suits.
For visiting Barcelona in the shoulder season, pack jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers for your trip.
In the summer, the weather in Barcelona is warm and humid, so pack light with clothes that aren’t too tight – it will find a way to stick to your body anyway!
In the winter, Barcelona can become pretty chilly (not Danish cold winter at all!), so pack plenty of layers! A winter jacket and a sweater wouldn’t hurt, since the humid weather can make temperatures feel colder than they are
Useful Apps to Download
When you’re planning your trip to Barcelona, there are a few apps that can seriously make your time in the city smoother and less stressful.
I recommend downloading them before you arrive in Barcelona, so you’re not wasting time dealing with apps, logins, and spotty Wi-Fi when you could be out exploring the city instead.
Best Apps for Barcelona Travel
Here is a list of some of my favorite apps to use on a trip to Barcelona!
WhatsApp – WhatsApp is one of the most essential apps to have on your phone before you travel to Barcelona.
It’s a free messaging app that works for both texts and calls, and while it’s used everywhere in the world, it’s especially common in Spain.
In Barcelona, WhatsApp is super useful for communicating with Airbnb hosts, tour guides, and sometimes even small hotels or local businesses.
Google Maps – Google Maps is my number one app for navigating Barcelona, planning routes on public transport, and checking restaurant reviews. During my time in Barcelona, Google Maps was the only map service I ever used.
Google Maps in Barcelona is generally very accurate with metro and bus routes and walking directions.
If you don’t want to burn all the internet on your travel eSim while using Google Maps, I highly recommend downloading the Google Maps offline map of Barcelona before you arrive.
Orbit Mobile Travel eSIM – If your phone provider at home doesn’t offer phone service in Spain, it is a great idea to get a travel eSIM before you visit Barcelona. Orbit Mobile is an affordable travel eSIM to use for traveling to Spain.
With Orbit Mobile eSIM, you will have internet on your phone from the minute you land in Barcelona.
Having internet on your phone (without breaking your bank account) can be very helpful for using Google Maps while touring Barcelona.
FreeNow – Free Now is one of the most useful taxi apps to download before your trip to Barcelona.
FreeNow works much like Uber, but in Barcelona, it’s often the more reliable option since it connects you with licensed taxis as well as private ride services.
You can pay directly in the app, see the estimated price in advance, and avoid the language barrier altogether, which, honestly, makes getting around the city feel a lot easier and more relaxed.
Uber & Cabify – Uber and Cabify are the most popular ride-sharing apps in Barcelona, and it is a great idea to download both before you travel to Barcelona.
If your Spanish is a bit rusty, the ride-sharing apps are also a bit less intimidating to use because you put the address in the app yourself.
Google Translate – If your Spanish isn’t great (or Catalan completely throws you off), the Google Translate app is a great lifesaver.
While many people in Barcelona speak English, especially in touristy areas, it’s not guaranteed everywhere. Catalan is also widely used, and although it’s similar to Spanish in some ways, it’s definitely its own thing.
Having Google Translate on your phone can make everyday situations like reading menus, signs, or transport info much less stressful.
Getting To Barcelona
Arriving in Barcelona
Barcelona is a well-connected city that is easy to arrive at from different parts of the world, and the city itself is also very well-connected with public transportation.
In this section, we will look at what you need to know about getting to Barcelona.
What Is the Best Way to Get to Barcelona?
Depending on where you are coming from, there are different ways to get to Barcelona.
Flights
Most people planning a trip to Barcelona will arrive by plane at Barcelona–El Prat Airport (code: BCN), which is the city’s main international airport.
Barcelona’s Airport is well-connected to Europe and beyond, so finding flights is usually pretty straightforward. The best way to find cheap flight tickets to Barcelona is to use Kiwi.com to compare the most affordable option from where you’re flying in from.
Train
If you’re already traveling around Europe, there’s also a good chance you’ll arrive in Barcelona by train.
High-speed trains connect Barcelona with cities like Madrid, Paris, and Marseille.
Trains usually arrive at Barcelona Sants, the city’s main train station. From the Sants Station, you can either take the subway or a taxi to your accommodation.
The Sants is a big and very busy train station, and I recommend that you keep an eye on your belongings – especially if you have just arrived and are juggling luggage.
Long-distance Bus
You can also arrive in Barcelona with a long-distance bus from various destinations all over Spain, as well as neighboring countries.
Long-distance buses normally arrive at the bus terminal, Estació del Nord. The bus terminal is located very centrally in Barcelona, near the Ciutadella Park and Arc de Triomf.
How Do You Get From the Airport to Barcelona?
Barcelona–El Prat Airport is located about 9 miles (15 km) southwest of the city center, and thankfully, getting into town is pretty easy. You’ve got several solid options, depending on your budget and patience level.
Aerobus Airport Shuttle Bus
The Aerobús is one of the most popular ways to get from the airport to central Barcelona, and honestly, for most people, it’s a great option.
The Aerobús shuttle bus runs frequently from both terminals at Barcelona Airport, and it drops you off at central spots like Plaça d’Espanya, Gran Via, and Plaça de Catalunya.
The only downside is that you’ll probably still need to walk or hop on the metro once you’re dropped off, especially if you’re staying outside the very center.
Metro L9 Sud
Barcelona Airport is connected to the city center by a metro line, the L9 Sud metro.
The metro is a budget-friendly option and works well if you’re not in a rush. In my opinion, it’s fine if you’re traveling light, but it can feel like a bit of a mission with big suitcases.
The L9 doesn’t go directly into the historic center, so you’ll almost always need to change lines.
Regional Train (Renfe Cercanías)
The regional train, Renfe Cercanías, runs from the airport to central stations like Barcelona Sants and Passeig de Gràcia.
The train is a fast, affordable, and really solid option if your accommodation is near one of those stations.
Just keep in mind that the train doesn’t run 24/7, so if you’re landing very late or very early, you’ll want to look at Aerobús or a taxi instead.
Taxi and Car-sharing Apps
There are plenty of taxis from the airport, and they are generally reliable. The taxis are more expensive than public transport, but you get door-to-door service.
You can either book a taxi directly at the airport when you arrive, but I always prefer to book it ahead of time with Welcome Pickups, so I avoid waiting in line at the airport.
There are also car-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify available at Barcelona Airport. There is a specific area for taking Uber and Cabify from Barcelona Airport, and the apps give you instructions on where to meet with your driver when you reserve. Honestly, I found it quite confusing the first time I took an Uber from Barcelona Airport.
When In Barcelona
Exploring Barcelona
There are plenty of places to explore and unique experiences to enjoy once you arrive in Barcelona. From historic neighborhoods and iconic architecture to beaches, markets, and long, lazy meals, the city has a way of pulling you in pretty quickly.
In this section, I’ll walk you through what you need to know about exploring Barcelona, along with a few honest tips to help you make the most of your time without feeling overwhelmed.
What to Do in Barcelona?
Barcelona is one of the most visited destinations in Europe for a reason! There are so many different things to see and do!
Do you want to spend your trip to Barcelona eating your way through tapas bars and markets, or are you more into exploring iconic landmarks and architecture?
Barcelona has you covered!
Maybe you want an active trip to Barcelona with hikes and day trips along the coast or into the mountains?
Barcelona has this too!
Or maybe you prefer wandering through lesser-known neighborhoods and hunting down hidden gems? Yep, Barcelona has you covered there, too!
Barcelona Top 5 Attractions
The regional train, Renfe Cercanías, runs from the airport to central stations like Barcelona Sants and Passeig de Gràcia.
Sagrada Familia
Barcelona’s most iconic landmark, and a church unlike anything else you’ll see.
Sagrada Familia is Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece of Catalan modernism, and a must-visit in Barcelona.
Even though tickets to visit the inside of Sagrada Familia are expensive, it is the most impressive part of the church.
Sagrada Familia is always busy, so I recommend booking tickets in advance.
Park Güell
Park Güell is a colorful and whimsical park that feels a bit like stepping into a fairytale. The park is also designed by the famous Antoni Gaudí.
Park Güell has some of the best views over Barcelona.
As with Sagrada Familia, it is one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona, and tickets book out quickly, so I recommend booking your tickets ahead of time. In summer, it is a good idea to visit early in the morning to avoid the worst heat and crowds.
Casa Batlló is one of Gaudí’s most imaginative buildings, with bold colors and unique shapes everywhere.
Casa Batlló is right in the heart of the city on the high-end street, Passeig de Gràcia.
The building is fascinating from the outside, but the interior is worth visiting if you’re into architecture and design.
The Palace of Catalan Music
The Palace of Catalan Music, most commonly known as Palau de la Música Catalana, is a stunning modernist concert hall in Barcelona.
The building is by far one of my favorite landmarks in Barcelona, with its stained glass windows and breathtaking details.
You can visit the concert hall through a self-guided visit, a guided tour, or by attending a performance.
The Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is Barcelona’s oldest neighborhood with a maze of narrow streets, hidden squares, and centuries of history.
The area is one of the most popular places to visit, with many different things to see and do. I recommend going early in the morning to visit without too many crowds.
Read more
Where to Stay in Barcelona?
Choosing the right neighborhood can really shape your Barcelona travel experience.
Some of the most popular areas to stay in Barcelona are El Eixample, El Born, and Gràcia.
El Eixample is a great all-round choice, especially for first-time visitors. It’s central, well-connected by metro, and full of restaurants, cafés, and beautiful modernist buildings. In my opinion, it’s one of the easiest areas to base yourself in.
El Born has a more historic, atmospheric feel with narrow streets, small boutiques, and great nightlife. It’s fun and lively, but can be noisy at night, so that’s something to keep in mind.
Gràcia feels more local and relaxed, with small plazas and a neighborhood vibe. I recommend it if you want to experience a quieter side of Barcelona while still being well-connected.
While it might seem convenient to stay right in the very center around Las Ramblas, I wouldn’t recommend it. It’s extremely touristy, often noisy, and more prone to pickpocketing (especially at night).
Airbnbs in Barcelona have been very popular, but the local city government in Barcelona has informed that the use of Airbnb will be phased out by 2028.
What Food to Try in Barcelona?
When you visit Barcelona, you’ll quickly notice how much of the local culture revolves around eating well and taking your time with meals.
Tapas are everywhere, and classics like patatas bravas and pan con tomate are a local favorite!
Paella is another popular dish to try in Barcelona (even though it is originally from the Spanish city of Valencia). Paella is a slow-cooked rice-based dish, typically made with seafood.
Crema Catalana is a local favorite dessert. The crema catalana is very similar to crème brûlée, but with its own twist and citrusy notes. Catalan cuisine has a strong identity of its own, so you’ll come across dishes and flavors you won’t necessarily see in other parts of Spain.
In my opinion, the best way to experience Barcelona’s food scene is by mixing traditional tapas bars with visits to local markets. The most popular (and touristy) market to visit in Barcelona is the Mercado de La Boquería, but each neighborhood has its own local food market.
Book a Food Experience in Barcelona
Getting Around Barcelona
How to Get Around Barcelona?
Barcelona is a very well-connected city, and getting around is honestly one of the easiest parts of visiting. Whether you prefer walking, public transport, or the occasional taxi, Barcelona gives you plenty of convenient options.
In this section, I’ll walk you through what you need to know about getting around Barcelona and choosing the best transport for your trip.
Walking in Barcelona
Barcelona is a very walkable city, especially if you’re staying anywhere near the center.
Many of the main sights, like the Gothic Quarter, El Born, parts of Eixample, and even the Barceloneta beach, are easy to reach on foot.
Personally, I think walking is one of the best ways to experience the city. You’ll stumble across small plazas, local cafés, and hidden streets you’d completely miss if you were rushing around on public transport or a taxi.
Uber & Cabify in Barcelona
Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Cabify do operate in Barcelona, but they are more limited than in other cities.
Cabify is generally the more reliable option, and availability can vary depending on the time of day.
Download the app before you arrive, and make sure your payment method works. Most of the time, cards are fine, but I still recommend carrying a bit of cash just in case.
Taxis in Barcelona
Taxis are widely available and easy to spot thanks to their black-and-yellow color. You can hail one on the street, find them at taxi ranks, or book through an app like Free Now.
Most drivers are professional and reliable, but not all of them speak English fluently, so having your destination pulled up on Google Maps helps.
Payment by card is common, but it’s always smart to confirm before you start the ride.
Public Transportation in Barcelona
Public transportation in Barcelona is efficient, affordable, and very easy to use.
The network includes the metro, buses, trams, and regional trains, all of which connect smoothly across the city.
Get a Barcelona Travel Card
To use public transportation in Barcelona, you will first need to get a travel card.
You can buy single tickets, day passes, or multi-ride tickets, depending on how long you’re staying.
If you plan on moving around a lot with public transportation, the unlimited travel card, Hola Barcelona, might give you the best value for money.
If you plan on walking more and traveling less with public transportation, the 10-trips T-casual card is likely a better option for you.
The Metro
The Barcelona Metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around, especially for longer distances.
Multiple lines cover most of the city, and stations are clearly marked and well signposted.
Public Buses
Barcelona’s bus network reaches areas the metro doesn’t, and it’s very useful for shorter hops or late-night travel.
Buses are modern, safe, and easy to use. When you get on, you simply tap your ticket or travel card.
Google Maps works really well for bus routes and stops, which makes navigating the system much less intimidating, even if it’s your first time in the city.
Trains
Regional trains, operated by Renfe or FGC, connect Barcelona with nearby cities and coastal towns. If you’re planning day trips to places like Sitges, Montserrat, or Girona, trains are usually the fastest and easiest option.
If you’re only staying within Barcelona city limits, you probably won’t need to use the trains much. But for day trips, the trains are one of the best and most stress-free ways to explore beyond the city.
Barcelona Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about Barcelona.
Is Barcelona a Good Place to Visit?
Yes, Barcelona is a great place to visit if you enjoy beautiful architecture and big city vibes!
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Barcelona?
Barcelona is in Spain and part of the Schengen Area, so EU citizens don’t need a visa. Most travelers from the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand don’t need a visa for short stays, but always double-check before you travel.
Is Barcelona Safe to Visit?
Yes, Barcelona is generally safe, but pickpocketing is common in touristy areas and on public transport.
Do You Tip in Barcelona?
Tipping isn’t expected. Rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated but optional.
My Story with Barcelona
I moved to Barcelona in 2023 after living in Buenos Aires for the past almost seven years.
During two and a half years, Barcelona was the home for my husband and me, and our dog, Baloo.
I got a job at a local company, met new friends, and explored many different parts of Barcelona.
During my time in Barcelona, I also started to add more travel guides about the city here on the blog (and many more in my drafts!).
In 2025, we decided to move from Barcelona to the Madrid area. There are many pros and cons of living in Barcelona, but it is definitely a city I recommend visiting if you get the chance!
Barcelona Travel Guides
I love to explore everything from popular attractions to hidden gems in the cities I visit. Having lived in Barcelona allowed me to get under the skin of the city and explore many different parts of the city, which I’m sharing with you in my travel guides.
Let’s explore the best of Barcelona together!