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About this guide

Barcelona, Spain, seamlessly blends Old World history with captivating architecture, making it a dynamic destination for any traveler. With the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia and iconic art in Las Ramblas, this city offers a culture of slowing down and savoring the moment. From modernist masterpieces of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí to the surreal works of Salvador Dalí proudly placed throughout the city, Barcelona welcomes travelers looking for inspiration. The city serves some of the most indulgent award-winning cuisine with endless opportunities to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. Whether playing in the surf of its beautiful beaches or shopping at the neighborhood markets, Barcelona promises unforgettable and life-changing experiences for everyone. It’s no surprise so many travelers never want to leave.

  • Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), November to March (off-season), April to May and September to October (shoulder season) 
  • Time zone: Central European Time (CET)
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Spanish, Catalan
  • Noteworthy: Barcelona Carnival (March), Tast a la Rambla Food Festival (June), La Mercè Festival (September), Van Van Market (Year-Round)
  • Best for: Art and Architecture, Spanish Food and Wine Lovers, Old World History Buffs, Solo to Family-Friendly Trips

Get Away: Getting To And Around Barcelona, Spain

By Air 

Book a flight directly into Barcelona-El Prat Airport, the city’s main international gateway and well connected airport. Located less than 10 miles from the city center, the airport offers plenty of direct flights from major cities worldwide. For budget-conscious travelers, traveling in the shoulder and off season may be the best options.

By Car

Navigating Barcelona by car is possible but can be challenging due to heavy traffic and limited parking. For the best experience, consider using a rental car for trips outside the city or taxis and rideshares for the surrounding neighborhoods. Be mindful of local traffic laws, restricted zones, and parking regulations to avoid fines.

By Public Transit

Barcelona’s public transit system is efficient and user-friendly, making it easy to explore the city. The metro, buses, and trams cover most of the city’s major attractions with frequent all-day services and clear routes. Consider purchasing the highly convenient T10 multi-ride ticket or a Barcelona Card for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.

Explore Barcelona, Spain On Foot

Barcelona is worth exploring on foot for its architectural beauty alone, along with some of the city's top attractions, such as La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, and the Passeig de Gràcia. Wear comfortable shoes and take advantage of the city's well-planned and safe pedestrian zones to experience local Spanish and Catalan culture.

Quick facts

Central European Time (CET)

Euro (€)

Spanish, Catalan

Good For

Art and Architecture

Spanish Food and Wine Lovers

Old World History Buffs

Solo to Family-Friendly Trips

Keep in mind

  • Barcelona Carnival (March)
  • Tast a la Rambla Food Festival (June)
  • La Mercè Festival (September)
  • Van Van Market (Year-Round)

Gourmet

Gourmet: Places To Eat In Barcelona, Spain

Caravelle

Eat at Caravelle for a taste of Melbourne-style brunch in Barcelona, featuring health-conscious breakfast bowls, indulgent French toast, and specialty coffees. With roots in Australia and London, this artisan café also offers a blend of international flavors and locally brewed craft beer.

Le Romane

Le Romane serves authentic Roman cuisine including classic dishes like bruschetta, Carbonara, Amatriciana, Supplì. They offer a selection of Italian wines and cocktails in a setting that brings a slice of Rome to Barcelona.

Blu Bar

Blu Bar in Barcelona has a year-round summer vibe with a 100% plant-based menu of freshly made dishes. Savor tapas like brava potatoes, gourmet sandwiches like their Famous veggie burger, and sweet desserts like plant-based Snickers.

La Traga Street Food

Indulge in delicious Colombian street food at the woman-owned restaurant La Traga Street Food. The menu includes Patacone platters, gourmet burgers, premium hot dogs, stuffed arepas, Salchipapa fries, and homemade desserts.

Lato Cafe 

Lato Cafe in Barcelona serves a unique fusion of Western and Andean cuisine, featuring fresh produce, seafood, and local meats. The menu includes eggs Benedict, spicy tuna bao buns, classic and vegan ceviche, and the Golden Pepa ultimate chocolate biscuit.

Roots And Rolls

Roots And Rolls, named Barcelona's best award-winning vegan restaurant, fuses Asian and Japanese cuisine with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. The diverse menu features plant-based sushi, gyozas, spring rolls, and more catered to any plant-based enthusiasts.

Play

Play: Things To Do In Barcelona, Spain

Make Seafood Paella And Sangria With A Top Chef 

Learn to make seafood paella and sangria with a top chef in an intimate setting for solo and group visitors to Barcelona. After exploring a local market, guests master the Spanish paella using a family recipe and enjoy local wines.

Montserrat Half-Day Tour With Tapas And Gourmet Wines

This Montserrat Half-Day Tour combines a guided exploration of Montserrat Monastery with a visit to wineries for tastings and tapas. The all-inclusive highlights tour includes round-trip air-conditioned transport, drinks, and desserts.

Tablao Flamenco Cordobes In La Rambla

For an authentic flamenco experience at Barcelona's premier venue, Tablao Flamenco Cordobes in La Rambla has a renowned 50-year heritage. Watch a captivating dance performance with a simple drink or indulge in a dinner package with unlimited drinks.

Hidden Bars And Authentic Tapas Journey

This Hidden Bars And Authentic Tapas Journey immerses visitors in Barcelona's best local bars and tapas off the tourist trail. Taste homemade artisanal dishes in family-owned spots, interact with locals, and fully connect with Barcelona’s authentic culinary culture.

Barcelona Happiness Tour

For a unique exploration of happiness while strolling through inspiring locations, the Barcelona Happiness Tour is a great mid-trip refresh. This interactive walking tour discusses key happiness themes alongside historical landmarks, a relaxing meditation session, and local candy sampling.

Horseback Riding Medieval Landscapes

Book this scenic two-hour horseback ride through medieval landscapes to take in the picturesque Catalan countryside and explore ancient villages. Afterward, enjoy traditional paella, explore a medieval watchtower, and (between May and October) swim in the natural pool.

Midday And Sunset Sailing 

Choose between a midday and sunset sailing cruise with for a leisurely afternoon swim or breathtaking Barcelona sunset on the Mediterranean Sea. With a professional skipper and luxury yacht, guests marvel at the city’s waterfront and gorgeous skyline, and participate in sailing activities.

AIRE Ancient Baths Barcelona

Add the AIRE Ancient Baths Barcelona to the itinerary for a unique experience where “time does not exist” and personal concierge guide guests to each treatment. Guests enjoy six different thermal baths, massages, facials, and other body treatments in a warm and intimate quiet setting for all-day relaxation.