Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, is a city that captivates visitors with its rich culture, stunning architecture and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new to discover. Here’s a guide to the good, the bad, and the ugly of visiting this amazing city.

One of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks, La Sagrada Familia, is a masterpiece designed by Antoni Gaudí. This magnificent basilica, still under construction, boasts stunning facades and intricate interiors. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

It’s highly recommended to book your admission tickets at least two weeks in advance, as slots fill up quickly. I experienced some difficulties when trying to book with three different credit cards, and by the time I reentered the website, the tickets were sold out. Ultimately, we chose to join a guided tour, which turned out to be incredibly informative and enriched our visit significantly.  Plan on spending approximately 2 hours at this attraction.  Eating or drinking inside the basilica is not allowed, however there are many restaurants and coffee shops nearby.  Also, remember to dress modestly, as it’s a place of worship, and be prepared for security checks at the entrance. 

Hours: 

9:00 AM to 8:00 PM – Monday – Friday

9:00 AM to 6:00 PM – Saturday

10:30 AM to 8:00 PM – Sunday

Cost: €36 – €40 for adults and free for children under 11 and people with disabilities.

Another Gaudí wonder, Park Güell, offers intricate designs, colorful mosaics, and breathtaking views of the city. Stroll through this public park to admire its unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere.  The park was initially intended to be a real estate development featuring around 60 houses, but the project was abandoned due to its remote location from the city. Today, the park contains three houses, one of which is still inhabited by the descendants of Martí Trias Domènech, the Guell family’s attorneys. Additionally, there is a school located within the park.  The serpentine bench showcases Gaudí’s innovative design with its colorful mosaic tiles; it also features a clever rainwater drainage system. You should plan to spend at least 2 hours at this attraction. 

Park Güell is a stunning spot in Barcelona, but it can get really crowded, especially during busy times, making it hard to enjoy and capture the perfect picture. The steep paths can be tough to walk, and some areas need repairs. It’s essential to bring water and sunglasses (click the link for a discount on ‘Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses) to protect your eyes while enjoying the stunning views. Tickets to the main area sell out fast, so it’s best to book ahead.

Hours: 

9:30 AM to 7:30 PM – Daily – High Season

9:00 AM to 5:30 PM – Saturday – Low Season

Cost:

€10 – for adults

€10 – for children from 7-12 

Free for children under 7

Casa Batlló, designed by Antoni Gaudí, is a must-see in Barcelona. Its colorful and unique design makes it look like something from a fairy tale. The building’s wavy shape and interesting details are really eye-catching. Inside, you’ll find creative rooms and beautiful decorations that show off Gaudí’s amazing skills. The rooftop has a cool dragon-like design and offers great views of the city.

To make the most of your visit, it’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines. An audio guide, available for around €8, enhances your experience with detailed information about the building’s history and features, and allows you to explore at your own pace. This is ideal if you prefer a more relaxed visit without being on a fixed schedule. Alternatively, guided tours are available and provide deeper insights and stories about Casa Batlló, which can be especially valuable if you enjoy interactive and informative experiences. Plan to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully enjoy the attraction. 

Hours: 

9:00 AM to 10:00 PM – Daily

Cost:

€29 – for adults

Free for children under 12

Güell Palace, a lesser-known Gaudí gem, showcases his early architectural style. The luxurious mansion features beautiful ironwork, colorful tiles, and innovative designs.  One of its highlights is the rooftop, with 20 colorful chimneys and great views of the city.  The building served as a private residence and a social hub for the Güell family.  Today, Palau Güell is open to visitors, it’s a great spot for Gaudí enthusiasts.  It is situated in the El Raval neighborhood, right off Las Ramblas, so it’s conveniently accessible for anyone exploring the area.  It’s strongly advised to buy tickets in advance to skip the line. Expect to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours at this attraction.  

Hours: 

10:00 AM to 8:00 PM – Tuesdays – Sundays (Closed on Mondays)

Cost:

€12 – for adults

€5 – for children 10-17 

Free for children under 10

Las Ramblas is a bustling street filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely walk, people-watching, and enjoying the lively atmosphere of Barcelona.  Something to keep in mind is that it is crowded, and pickpockets are common. Keep your bags close and be aware of your surroundings. To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. For better deals and quality, look for places where locals eat, usually just a short walk away.  Stop by La Boqueria Market, this famous food market is right on Las Ramblas. It’s a great place to grab a snack, fresh juice, or just explore the local flavors.  Some restaurants and shops on Las Ramblas are overpriced.  Don’t stick to just the main street; the side streets off Las Ramblas have fantastic local shops, cafes, and quieter places to discover. Las Ramblas is a long street, and you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your shoes are comfortable. (Click here for a discount on Hoka sneakers)

Barcelona is a food lover’s dream, with a wide variety of dishes and drinks that perfectly showcase the flavors of Catalan cuisine.  Dive into a flavorful paella, a classic rice dish loaded with seafood, meats, and fresh vegetables. Sampling the tapas is a must-do, as these small plates, including crispy croquettes and spicy patatas bravas, are ideal for sharing and experiencing a range of delicious flavors. For a refreshing drink, enjoy a glass of sangria, a chilled wine punch mixed with fruit.  Don’t miss out on other local delights such as pintxos, which are small but flavorful snacks, and crema catalana, a creamy custard dessert similar to crème brûlée. Barcelona’s culinary offerings promise a memorable dining experience.  Tipping in Barcelona has traditionally been appreciated but not required. However, during our recent visit to a restaurant that turned out to be a tourist trap on Las Ramblas, we encountered a waiter who provided only average service and was quite insistent on a 20% tip. We normally tip generously, especially when the service is exceptional, but the pushiness in this instance was particularly disappointing given the mediocre service we received.

The Gothic Quarter is the heart of old Barcelona. Its narrow streets are lined with medieval buildings, charming squares, and hidden gems. Don’t miss the Barcelona Cathedral and Plaça Real, a beautiful square surrounded by palm trees and historic buildings. One of its unique features is the pair of famous lampposts designed by Antoni Gaudí. These ornate lampposts, adorned with iron owls, showcase Gaudí’s early work and hint at the whimsical style that would later define his architectural masterpieces. The square is a perfect spot to relax and take in the blend of history and creativity that defines Barcelona. It’s also a popular spot for dining and nightlife.  

Something to keep in mind is that the narrow, winding streets can be confusing to navigate. Using GPS is ideal here, and it works well in the area. It’s highly recommended to get an international SIM card to avoid hefty phone bill fees.  There’s also Wi-Fi in most cafes and restaurants, so you can easily find your way around even without data.  The uneven cobblestone streets can be tough on your feet, so comfortable shoes (Click here for a discount on Brooks sneakers) are essential.

Barcelona offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and Airbnb rentals. Whether you’re looking for a high-end stay or a cozy apartment, you’ll find something that suits your needs and budget.  

Explore the links below to access special rates on accommodations.

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