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Barcelona   Travel Guide

Why Go To Barcelona

Barcelona contains both the authentically historic and the wildly bizarre. From the scenic trails of the colorful  Park Güell  to the romantic narrow alleys of the Barri Gòtic , this city by the sea seems to attract all types – the adventurer, the romantic, the partier, the culture lover – with an almost overwhelming variety of things to do. You could stay for a few days exploring its architectural marvels, but chances are you'll need a whole week to explore.

And while the beach lures locals and visitors in droves, it’s the cosmopolitan city that really dazzles. Much of the activity revolves around the Ciutat Vella (or Old City), a series of narrow streets and alleys packed with restaurants, cafes and nightclubs, and the home of Las Ramblas – the wide, tree-lined thoroughfare that’s long been the hub of the city.

Just as unmissable are Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces; the architect, famous for his distinctive Catalan art nouveau style was the brains behind the city’s wavy, whimsical creations, from Casa Milà and Casa Batlló to La Sagrada Família . Beyond Gaudí’s influential mark, you’ll find an eclectic shopping scene, a slew of museums, plenty of parks and exquisite food and wine. You see why we suggest a week vacation? To get a lay of the land, consider signing up for one of the city's best guided tours .

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• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in Spain
• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in March 2024
• # 6 in Best Places to Visit in Europe for 2023-2024

See All 7 Rankings

Best of Barcelona

Best hotels in barcelona.

• # 1 in Hotel Arts Barcelona
• # 2 in Cotton House Hotel, Autograph Collection
• # 3 in Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona

Best Things to Do in Barcelona

• # 1 in La Sagrada Família (Church of the Sacred Family)
• # 2 in Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter)
• # 3 in Casa Batlló

Popular Tours

Fast Track Sagrada Familia Guided Tour

(6002 reviews)

from $ 56.73

Park Guell & Sagrada Familia Tour with Skip the Line Tickets

(3459 reviews)

from $ 113.45

Barcelona in 1 Day: Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Old Town & Pickup

(3221 reviews)

from $ 108.54

Barcelona Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Barcelona is from May to June, when balmy temperatures in the low to mid-70s mesh with a flurry of festivals that trumpet the advent of summer. The actual summertime is sticky with humidity – locals leave their beloved city in droves to catch a breeze somewhere else. They come back for the fall when the average highs drop back in to the 70s. Winter is mild compared to other Spanish destinations, with highs in the high 50s. And while coming during the spring may seem like smart idea for avoiding crowds, April sees frequent showers, which may put a literal damper on sightseeing plans (most of Barcelona's top attractions are experienced outside). Keep in mind that no matter what time of the year you'll visit, there will be other tourists: Barcelona is the most-visited city in Spain.

Weather in Barcelona

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Don't visit in August Swarms of locals leave the city in August to catch some relief from the sweltering humidity, which means some of the smaller restaurants and shops are closed until September.

Spanish vs. Catalan Most residents who grew up in the region consider themselves Catalan and speak the Catalan language to each other, instead of Spanish. But don't worry – Barcelona is an incredibly international city and most residents are bilingual. Many are also trilingual, especially in the tourist areas.

Cover up at church Religious sites, such as Barcelona Cathedral and La Sagrada Família, ask that visitors cover up knees and shoulders when entering. If you don't have the proper attire on hand, you won't be admitted (although shawls are for sale at the cathedral).

Take a tour According to visitors, one of the best ways to acquaint yourself with the city is to take a guided tour .

How to Save Money in Barcelona

Go big on lunch Eat a big meal at lunch and you can cash in on the menú del día (menu of the day), which is usually an affordable and tasty three-course meal (they’re normally served on weekdays, although some restaurants offer them on weekends too). A similar meal in the evening costs much more.

Don't eat in touristy areas The more-visited parts of the city like Las Ramblas are known to serve mediocre food at exorbitant prices. Instead, venture away from the crowded areas and you’ll find something better for much less.

Stay in an apartment Cut down on food costs by renting an apartment (rather than staying in a hotel), where you can buy groceries and cook your own Catalan feasts.

Culture & Customs

Barcelona is part of the Spanish province of Catalonia, making its culture a little different from what you'd experience in Madrid , Seville  or Granada . The most noticeable difference is the language. In Barcelona, both Spanish and Catalan are official languages; Catalan is not a dialect of Spanish. The language was derived from Latin during the occupation of the Romans several thousands of years ago. While in Barcelona, you'll see street and roadway signs in both Catalan and Spanish as well as some restaurant menus. However, considering Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe, you will likely find English speaking residents in hotels and tourist areas.

Barcelona's official currency is the euro (EUR). Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates often, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops. Like the rest of Spain, tipping is not common in Barcelona. Depending on where you dine, a service charge may be added to your bill. However, if you do want to tip, 10% is more than sufficient. Also similar to the rest of Spain, Catalans eat late and party even later. Restaurants are typically open for lunch between 1 and 4 p.m. and for dinner from 8 to 11 p.m. For locals, dinner usually starts at 9 p.m. at the earliest, going out starts at 12 a.m. and clubs stay open until 5 or 6 a.m. 

What to Eat

In Barcelona, expect to find a mix of traditional Spanish dishes along with Mediterranean-infused Catalonian classics. While here, make sure to sample Spanish staples including jamón ibérico, manchego cheese , tortilla española (potato omelet), gazpacho (cold soup), and patatas bravas (sautéed potatoes typically served with a spicy aioli). And considering the city borders the Mediterranean Sea, you should indulge in paella accordingly. But when in Catalonia, try the Catalan versions of paella. There's arròs a la catalana , which features much of the same ingredients of paella except the dish doesn't use saffron, a key ingredient in Spanish paella. Fideuà is another paella-like dish with a Catalan spin, only instead of rice you get noodles.

Catalonian cuisine is big on meat and fish. And while that may not sound too far off from the rustic, meat-heavy fare found throughout the rest of Spain, the difference here is that the Catalans like to mix both of them together in one dish. Mar i muntanya is the name of the phenomenon ,  so don't be alarmed if while in a restaurant, you notice a dish coming out with chicken and shrimp together on a plate. If that sounds too heavy for your liking, there are plenty of lighter options that are quintessentially Catalan. Grilled vegetables are surprisingly big for a place that loves pork. (Sausage is another staple here. Instead of focusing on chorizo, go for the regional botifarras sausage). One of the most traditional Catalan dishes available is escalivada , which is grilled eggplant and red peppers mixed with olive oil and garlic (sometimes with anchovies) served on top of bread. There's also the vegetarian-friendly, and favored pa amb tomàquet snack, or bread spread with a mix of olive oil, garlic and crushed tomatoes. And if you're visiting from December to early May, seek out a calçot cookout. Calçots are a type of spring onions native to the province, and it's a Catalan pastime to char them on a grill and dip them in romesco sauce. Also part of the pastime? Wearing bibs (often emblazoned with calçots) and eating outside, where the grilled calçots are spread among newspaper. (If that sounds familiar, it's the same way crab and lobster is consumed in the USA.)

Whatever you decide to eat while in Barcelona, make sure to leave room for dessert. Crema catalana is the Catalan version of creme brulee. Cheese is also dessert here. Mel i mató is a goat cheese drizzled with warm honey and accompanied by walnuts. Cava, or Catalan sparkling wine, goes great with these too.

Barcelona is a major tourism hotspot and pickpockets know it. Be mindful of your surroundings especially while touring Barcelona's major attractions. The city sees a moderate rate of conventional crime and principal tourist areas and metros are often the most targeted spots. Men should keep their wallets in their front pockets and carry backpacks in front when traveling on the metro and women should make sure their purses are zipped or secured as best as possible.

Getting Around Barcelona

The best way to get around Barcelona is by metro. A handful of numbered and color-coded lines weave throughout the city, making stops near many of the city's most popular attractions as well as the Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). City buses are also an option for getting around the city, but be aware that ever-present traffic jams make commuting this way rather time-consuming. You could hail taxis on the street, but if you want to burn a few calories, conduct your tour on foot or by bike. Driving is not recommended.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport is required for entry into Spain. The passport must be valid for three months beyond your departure date. Tourists from the United States can stay for up to 90 days without a tourist visa. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's website .

Park Güell is one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona, thanks to its excellent views and colorful atmosphere.

Explore More of Barcelona

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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United flights to Barcelona from $ 705 *

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Things to do after your flight to Barcelona (BCN)

Fly to Barcelona with United Airlines from over 200 airports within the United States and an additional 100 airports internationally.

Barcelona’s top attractions

• Tour buildings by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, including the magnificent UNESCO-listed Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló and Casa Vicens.
• Stroll through the colorful Park Güell.
• Ride on the Port Cable Car for sweeping city views.
• Visit the markets, shops and cafes along the pedestrian walkway Las Ramblas.
• Stop by the Roman Temple of Augustus.
• Sunbathe and swim at Barceloneta or Mar Bella, some of the city’s top beaches.
• Take the family to Tibidabo Amusement Park.
• Day trip to Montserrat, the surrounding mountains that are home to a Benedictine abbey.

Best time to travel to Barcelona

Barcelona’s weather is pleasant year-round, and there’s something going on no matter when you visit. January’s Día de los Reyes Magos is an important holiday in Barcelona featuring a large Christmas parade. Join a traditional Catalonian feast at La Calçotada and satisfy your sweet tooth at the Sant Medir candy festival, both held in winter. The springtime Feria de Abril lasts for a week and celebrates all things flamenco. In fall, La Mercè festival celebrates the patron saint of Barcelona.

Find your vacation package to Barcelona with United Packages .

Find more flights to Barcelona (BCN) with United

More flights to Barcelona with United Airlines

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Spain travel restrictions

Which documents to travel to spain in 2024, spain travel restrictions: health requirements for entering spain.

1/ Good news for travelers coming from the European Union or the Schengen Area , it is no longer necessary to present the SpTH health control form or a COVID-19 certificate to enter Spain.

There are no longer any health checks for passengers arriving by boat, by road and since September 2022 by air.

• For further information please visit  https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/

2/ Passengers arriving from the rest of the world (i.e. outside the European Union or the Schengen Area) should consult the following websites to find out about any health regulations that apply to them:

• https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/
• or on the website of the Ministry of Health

3 / Travelling to Spain from the UK after Brexit for a holiday

What are the Spain entry requirements since Brexit?

Our advice:

Whatever your country of origin, visit this official website which clearly indicates, country by country, what are the health rules and restrictions to entering Spain:

Travel Safe:  https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/

What is the spanish locator form?

The Spanish locator form, also known as the " Spain Travel Health " or "Spain Health Control" form, is a document that travelers need to fill out before traveling to Spain, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is an online form that asks for personal information such as name, date of birth, contact information, and travel details, including flight information and the address of your accommodation in Spain. The purpose of the Spanish locator form is to facilitate contact tracing and to help health authorities locate travelers if they have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID.

                                                            -------------------

The classic documents for entering Spain

Identity card or passport for Europeans

• Travelers who are members of a Schengen country must present either a valid identity card (ID) or a valid passport at the border with Spain.

Passport and visa for non-Europeans

• Travelers who are not members of a Schengen country must present a valid passport and a visa at the border with Spain.

Prepare your trip to Spain:

• Find all the information about  arrivals and departures at Barcelona airport . Which terminal is currently working?
• In  Barcelona Coronavirus  find the news, from day to day, on the restrictions and sanitary measures in force, including what is open and what is closed in Barcelona and Catalonia.
• In  Covid Testing in Barcelona  where to get a covid test near to you during your stay.
• The hotels are open in Barcelona right now. For your safety, a   new sanitary protocol   for a safer stay is now in place!  Book your hotel in Barcelona

50 comments

Lost passport in madrid, travel by police or ambassy documents - conwey (29 oct 2022 - 10:54).

hello I would like to know what kind off document to cary to get to Barcelona from Madrid og a foreign tourist .

driving to Seville from Portugal for the day - Mel (25 Apr 2022 - 07:22)

If I am driving to Seville from the Algarve region in Portugal just for the day and then returning to Portugal later in the evening, do I need a Covid test or QR code showing proof of vaccine? Is there a check at the border? Any help is appreciated. Most info is for people arriving by land or sea. Thank you!

@Bailey - Barcelona.com (13 Jan 2022 - 12:32)

Hello Bailey, It is not at all sure that it works as well as in France. I advise you to ask your embassy in Spain. They should know about this very specific case. best,

EU DCC for non EU citizen? - Bailey (13 Jan 2022 - 11:58)

I’m an American citizen, but I have an EU digital covid certificate issued by France that I got last August for a different trip. Can I use that to apply for the SpTH pass? I read that the lines go quicker if you use that instead of a different proof of vaccination (like my US CDC vaccine card), but I wanted to make sure it wouldn’t be a problem to use that if I’m not an EU citizen. In France, at least, it works exactly the same as any other EU digital covid certificate

@Kirsty Mooney - Barcelona.com (29 Nov 2021 - 11:44)

Hello Kirsty Mooney, You are not the only one in the comments to say that this service is deplorable. It's incomprehensible that no one in this department has realized this. Here is their contact page: https://www.spth.gob.es/contact best,

No QR code in time to travel - Kirsty Mooney (27 Nov 2021 - 11:02)

Hello, I was supposed to travel to Madrid yesterday 25th November. I was unable to get the qr code , I tried several times but no luck. We went to the airport early to get help and the EasyJet ground staff spent 90 minutes with me trying to get the code. As a result we could not board and lost our holiday. How can I complain to the health authority and who do I contact? Thank you.

@Juptmor - Barcelona.com (20 Nov 2021 - 10:38)

Hello Juptmor, Everything is explained on this page for travelers coming from Morocco to Spain: https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/ No quarantine after a quick read... But take a good look. Best,

US citizen traveling from Marrakech to Barcelona - Juptmor (20 Nov 2021 - 10:28)

Hello, I'm having difficulty determining if I will be allowed to enter Barcelona, Spain from Marrakech, Morocco if I'm an American citizen that is fully vaccinated. I know I'm allowed into Spain from the US or another EU county, but I cannot figure out if I'm allowed in if I travel through Marrakech. If I am allowed in, will I have to quarantine? Do I need a COVID test? Can you please help? Thank you.

@Paul - Barcelona.com (18 Nov 2021 - 10:04)

Hello Paul, As indicated on this page, the official website gives precise explanations, country by country, to better understand the rules to enter Spain: https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/ Hope this would help you, Best,

Entry requirement - Paul (18 Nov 2021 - 09:40)

Hello, I am fully vacinnated with Sinopharm and am travelling to Spain from China (I have my visa) do I also need a PCR test? I'm getting confused from all of the different answers online. Thanks P

@Clare - Barcelona.com (9 Nov 2021 - 10:04)

Hello Clare, We believe this is just an additional piece of information requested as a precaution. You may be asked to take another test after you arrive in Spain. Fill out the form and you will see if you are asked for additional information. Normally all the explanations can be found on this site: https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/ But we did not find it. Have a good flight!

UK Track and trace - Clare (9 Nov 2021 - 09:56)

On the spanish health form it asks you if you have been in contact with a covid case in the last 14 days. If you say yes, you still get issued a QR code. If you have said yes, yet are fully vaccinated and have tested negative with a PCR test, will you be allowed into Spain?

@jean - Barcelona.com (4 Nov 2021 - 08:52)

Hola jean, The SpTH QR code only allows you to enter Spain, it does not replace the health pass or other digital EU covid certificate. best,

qr codes? - jean (4 Nov 2021 - 08:06)

hi! does anyone know if the SpTH QR code is enough to get you into bars/clubs? i don't think i will be successful in obtaining a digital EU covid certificate in time for my trip as i'm not a citizen of an EU country (i'm fully vaxxed from USA)

@Jonah - Barcelona.com (15 Oct 2021 - 08:38)

Hello Jonah, The rules changed this week for nightclubs ( more info Barcelona Coronavirus page). You shouldn't have any problem to get in. For the sanitary pass you have to ask your university best,

American obtaining Covid Pass - Jonah (15 Oct 2021 - 08:24)

Hello, I am an American study abroad student who is in Barcelona for three months. I am vaccinated but have been denied at some nightclubs and bars because I don't have the EU Covid Passport with the QR code. It seems impossible for Americans to obtain the covid passport, is there any way around this? I want to obtain the QR code so I don't have to get tested every single weekend to go out even though I am vaccinated. I have tried going to el CAP and they said they couldn't do anything. Thank You

@MS - Barcelona.com (11 Oct 2021 - 10:16)

Hello MS, Many people have mentioned this subject on this page. We think that if you have the documents proving your identity before your wedding - which is your case - there will be no problem entering Spain knowing that the controllers are now used to this issue. Have a good flight!

Vaccination card name - MS (9 Oct 2021 - 11:22)

Hello, We’re traveling from US to Barcelona next week. My vaccination card is with my married name but my passport and airline ticket is with my maiden name. Will I be allowed entry into Barcelona if I also bring my marriage license to show both names and also my old driver’s license with my married name in it? I’m very worried I’ll be denied entry on arrival, especially since we’re traveling with young children. Thank you for your help!

@Travey - Barcelona.com (8 Oct 2021 - 11:06)

Hello Travey, Getting a QR code via the SpTh website is a real nightmare, you are not the only one to complain about it. It often happens that the download is successful but the site does not specify it. The only solution is to go through the whole process again, begging your god ;-) on your knees like the penitents (which is less humiliating than using this governmental website). May the force be with you,

Travelling without the qr code - Travey (8 Oct 2021 - 10:34)

Hi I wonder if anyone can help. I travel to Barcelona tomorrow from the Uk. I’ve tried to do the Spanish health travel form and somewhere I’ve messed up and verified something. I can’t get QR code as I keep getting a message saying A form can not be created the data already exists. I just don’t know what to do. Please can anyone help

@Ssscia - Barcelona.com (7 Oct 2021 - 09:40)

Hello Ssscia, Normally, a European can travel in Europe with a recently expired passport or ID card. In your case and since the Brexit, we do not know. Ask your embassy in France or Spain for confirmation. Best,

British passport - Ssscia (7 Oct 2021 - 09:14)

Hi I'm travelling to spain on Friday for the weekend and I'm flying from bordeaux France to sapin but I've just realised I have 5 days less than the 6 months required on my british passport. Is it still possible to fly ?

@Emma Tilston - Barcelona.com (6 Oct 2021 - 11:34)

Hello Emma Tilston, If your sister has not been ill and has no signs of illness there is no reason why she should not be allowed to return to the UK. However, it is recommended that she is tested to make sure that she has not caught the virus and is not contagious to other passengers. Best,

Contacted by Track and Trace - Emma Tilston (6 Oct 2021 - 11:26)

My sister flew home to the UK from Spain on 27th September. She has been emailed by track and trace to tell her someone on her flight has tested positive for C-19. She has not been told to self isolate. Can she fly back to Spain from UK on 7th October (a 10 day gap). Thanks.

@Laura B. - Barcelona.com (4 Oct 2021 - 17:32)

Hello Laura B. If you live in Italy and come to Spain from Italy, you have the right documents to enter Spain. Ask your embassy for confirmation, it's safer. Best,

Viaje a Barcelona - Laura B. (4 Oct 2021 - 16:58)

Hola! Soy mexicana, resido en USA y tengo un mes viviendo en Italia (trabajando desde casa). Quiero viajar a Barcelona desde Italia (Napoles) como turista por un fin de semana. Estoy vacunada, mi certificado es la tarjeta que la CDC da en USA. Me hes posible entrar a Barcelona? Que necesito para poder entrar a Barcelona? Muchas Gracias!

@laslo - Barcelona.com (24 Sep 2021 - 11:18)

Hello laslo, if you are going to arrive by ferry in Spain you have to fill in a specific health form - as indicated above on this page. Here is the link: SpTH Spain Travel Health website: https://spthm.puertos.es/

coming by ferry - laslo (24 Sep 2021 - 09:24)

hello, I'm arriving in Spain by ferry, which form do I need? thank you

Which test? - Samirah (24 Sep 2021 - 08:14)

I am flying to Spain from UK and am not fully vaccinated. I booked a rapid antigen test as I read on many sites including the Spanish government page that this is enough. However the Uk government and the company I fly with state I need to take a PCR and RAT tests aren’t allowed... I’m so confused and don’t want to be denied entry as my family live there and I’ve not seen them in so long

@Kat - Barcelona.com (2 Sep 2021 - 09:08)

Hello Kat, Your question is out of the scope of this page, we apologize for not being able to answer you. The best thing to do is to contact the relevant departments in Greece and Spain to be sure. Regards,

Visa/Residency - Kat (2 Sep 2021 - 08:48)

I recently renewed my visa and applied for a new residency card. I was supposed to receive the new card today but was told it will not be available for another two weeks. I am flying to Greece in less than two weeks and am worried that I will not be able to re-enter Spain without a valid residency card. I currently have my EU Vaccination Certificate, expired residency card, Resguardo de Solicitud (stating I applied for the new card in August and that my visa is valid until 2023), and passport, but I am not sure if that is sufficient. Is a valid residency card required in order to return from Greece even though it is part of the Schengen?

@Lizzie - Barcelona.com (1 Sep 2021 - 09:58)

Hello Lizzie, From Portugal to Spain by bus/car you'll just need to present the health passport (green pass). best,

Bus from Portugal into Spain - Lizzie (1 Sep 2021 - 08:24)

Hi, I Am getting a bus from faro (Portugal) into Spain (Seville). I have read there are no requirements for land border entry. Is that ok?

Ibiza Barcelona - Fiona1605 (30 Aug 2021 - 10:30)

How very confusing are the rules for internal travel within Spain. The Balearics government do require a health form to arrive in Ibiza from Barcelona I believe. I'm not sure about the other direction? Pffffff very difficult to find this information as each region creates its own rules.

@Chloe - Barcelona.com (27 Aug 2021 - 09:44)

Hello Chloe, You need PCR a negative PCR or antigen test if the vaccine is less than 14 days. To be sure with your vaccine brand check the link indicated on this page. Best,

Vaccination - Chloe (27 Aug 2021 - 08:40)

Hello I am travelling to Spain from Ireland next week and am wondering if i will need a negative PCR or antigen test? I have received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine however it will not be 2 weeks after the 2nd dose at time of travelling. I am curious if I will require a negative test to enter Spain as to be classified as fully vaccinated only takes 7 days with the Pfizer vaccine not 14 days like the other vaccines. Thanks

@Vanessa - Barcelona.com (20 Aug 2021 - 09:52)

Hello Vanessa, You are not the only one in this case of different documents for same person, please take legal document to prove your identity and it will be fine. Best,

Passport in different name - Vanessa (20 Aug 2021 - 09:38)

I have had both vaccines but the COVID travel pass is in my married name and my passport is in my previous married name. The marriage certificate is in my maiden name! Nightmare! If I take all the legal documents will this be accepted? I have tried the uk Gov website but cannot find the information.

@ Christine - Barcelona.com (21 Jul 2021 - 11:14)

Hello Christine, You have to be able to prove your identity, which is what your driver's license will do. So it's perfect. best,

Covid vaccination record - Christine (21 Jul 2021 - 10:44)

My covid vaccination record is in a different name to my passport. Will this be accepted? My British driving licence has the same name as my vaccination record.

@Norma Holmes - Barcelona.com (17 Jul 2021 - 10:20)

Hello Norma Holmes, if your document is translated in English or Spanish or French or German then it's ok - like it was before EU travel certificate; Best,

Didn’t receive my EU travel cert - Norma Holmes (17 Jul 2021 - 09:50)

Hi I haven’t received my EU travel certificate and I am flying to Spain next Thursday 22July. I am fully vaccinated and have my vaccination card. Will that suffice?

@Trudy Cross - Barcelona.com (16 Jul 2021 - 09:12)

Hello Trudy Cross, Don't worry, your mother-in-law will do everything she can to help you at the most difficult moments.. However, the controls are increasingly heavy at the customs, I hope that you will find an understanding controller. I wouldn't do it. Best,

Documements - Trudy Cross (16 Jul 2021 - 08:42)

I am due to fly to Spain on 9th August to visit my mother-in-law. I booked my tickets in my maiden name as my passport is still valid. However, my Covid vaccinations are in my married name. Can I still enter Spain if I provide my marriage certificate as proof ?

@wendy - Barcelona.com (9 Jul 2021 - 09:54)

Hello wendy, If your son is 14 years old he has to do a PCR or antigen test to enter Spain. Best,

14 years olds traveling - wendy (9 Jul 2021 - 09:28)

I'm traveling to Spain with my son who's 14 what does he need to enter as Iv had both my jabs so I don't need a PCR. But will my son thank you

@Michael Whitehead - Barcelona.com (6 Jul 2021 - 10:04)

@Michael Whitehead please check this info on this page: https://travelsafe.spain.info/en/ best,

Digital Proof of Vaccine - Michael Whitehead (6 Jul 2021 - 09:02)

I am a UK national and have digital proof of vaccine on my National Health Service App, which shows my photograph, date of birth, when my vaccine course was completed. Can this be used as proof to enter Spain. Kind regards Michael Whitehead

@Ian Deacon - Barcelona.com (3 Jul 2021 - 11:24)

Hello Ian Deacon, best is to follow this link and try to find your information: https://covid-19- diagnostics.jrc.ec.europa.eu/devices#form_content Best,

AZ vaccine not recognised by EMA - Ian Deacon (3 Jul 2021 - 11:18)

Good morning, we are hoping to travel to Spain in August for holidays. My wife and I have been vaccinated with the batch of Astra Zeneca not recognised by the EMA, will we be accepted by the authorities once we arrive in Spain? If not do you foresee your country accepting these batches in time for our holidays? Many thanks Ian Deacon

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Traveling to Barcelona for the First Time: 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 15, 2024

Traveling to Barcelona for the first time and not sure where to start and what to expect? This article covers all the essential Barcelona travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip.

Planning your first visit to Barcelona, Spain, might be overwhelming. There are so many questions… How much time do you need in Barcelona? When to visit and how to avoid the crowds? Where to stay and what to see? Any local tips and habits to be aware of? Or how to see the best that Barcelona has to offer in a limited time and without breaking the bank?…

To help you plan your first trip to Barcelona, we selected some of the best tips for visiting the city. This no-nonsense practical guide will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your time and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Barcelona:

• Sagrada Familia .
• Park Güell .
• Montjuïc Cable Car .
• Barcelona Pass .
• Casa Batlló .

Here are our essential Barcelona travel tips:

1. Research & Book in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when visiting Barcelona for the first time is not to plan your trip in advance. So congratulations – because you are reading this, you already have a head start compared to other visitors!

Whether it’s flights, accommodations, or tickets for the main Barcelona attractions – booking in advance means that you have more choices and much better prices . It also means less wasted time queuing and more relaxing time sightseeing and enjoying this fabulous city. After all, you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Also, doing your research in advance means that you will avoid disappointment to find that the places you want to visit are closed or tickets sold out . Below are some examples that illustrate what I mean.

For example, we really wanted to see the dancing fountain of Barcelona, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc , and were told that it dances every night. However, it’s not the case. Furthermore, since we were traveling in the low season, it was actually only dancing three times a week.

Because we arrived on a Saturday and left before the next weekend, we only had one chance to see the fountains during our visit – on the first evening in the city. So despite an early flight and a very long day, we decided to go. If we hadn’t done the research -assuming that we could just see it any night- we would have definitely missed it.

We also researched whether it was a good idea to visit Montserrat Monastery on Sunday. It turns out that it’s the busiest day of the week. So we booked a tour for Monday instead…

I also heard from some of our readers that they couldn’t visit the famous Barcelona market Mercado de La Boqueria because they didn’t realize that it was closed on Sundays. By the way, all indoor markets in Barcelona are closed on Sundays.

Another reader told us that they couldn’t visit Park Güell because they didn’t buy tickets in advance and no walk-ins were possible… (Btw, Park Güell is one of the most-visited Barcelona attractions and you really have to book your tickets in advance!).

Good to know: Tickets for the most popular Barcelona attractions often sell out up to 2-3 weeks in advance. This is especially the case in high season. Plus, most entry tickets are now timed, so you need to see what’s possible and how to fit it all into your itinerary. Further below, you will find more details and tips, but if you get the Barcelona Pass , you will have the option to pre-book a timeslot for your skip-the-line entry to all the main sights.

By doing your research in advance, you can also compare prices, reviews, and itineraries for the best tours in Barcelona… This brings us to the next point.

READ ALSO: Top Sights & Attractions in Barcelona

2. Save Time & Money When Visiting Barcelona’s Main Landmarks

Visiting Barcelona for the first time also means visiting all the main landmarks and attractions. Of course, you will want to see the famous La Sagrada Familia and the other iconic Gaudi buildings and architecture! Just make sure that you are well prepared so that you don’t waste hours and days standing in lines.

TIP: If you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona, consider skip-the-line tickets for ALL the main landmarks and the most popular tourist attractions. We also recommend booking guided tours for the Sagrada Familia and the main Gaudi buildings – that way you’ll get a much better understanding of all the symbolism and stories behind the architecture.

You can find Barcelona tours and skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and also on Tiqets . More information – further below.

Skip the Line Tickets

Some of the most popular attractions in Barcelona like Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, Park Güell, or La Sagrada Familia can have extremely long waiting times. Buying your tickets in advance is essential when visiting these places in any season!

Here you can get skip-the-line tickets for Casa Batllo , Casa Mila , Park Güell , and – the most popular of them all – La Sagrada Familia .

PRO TIP: With this Barcelona Pass , you can immediately reserve timed-entry tickets for the most popular sights, including the towers of La Sagrada Familia (regular tickets don’t include tower access!). This is a digital pass, so you will get tickets per email (= very simple to book and use).

TIP: If you didn’t think of buying the tickets in advance and they are sold out, try booking a guided tour instead. Guided tours prebook tickets and make it possible to visit the main landmarks even if the tickets are sold out. I recommend visiting Gaudi’s buildings and especially La Sagrada Familia with a tour anyway. Read on to learn why!

Guided Tours

Even when we visited in the low season, all the Gaudi buildings in Barcelona were incredibly busy. Often, it wasn’t even clear where to go even if you had already pre-booked your tickets…

That’s why we chose to visit all the Gaudi buildings on a tour. Here you can read more about our experience with the Gaudi tour (we chose this amazing tour that covers all the main Gaudi landmarks in a day).

We visited Barcelona with our three kids who, obviously, have no patience when it comes to long queues. Taking a tour meant that we could relax while the guide took care of everything. We just followed the guide and never had to wait anywhere longer than 10 minutes.

I can’t imagine how different our experience would have been if we had to figure out where exactly to go and wait in endless lines everywhere. We wouldn’t have been able to see half as much, not even to mention our sanity having to deal with bored kids…

Furthermore, having a local guide who explained what, where, and why, enabled us to appreciate what we were seeing. We never knew there were so many symbols and stories behind all the tiny details in Gaudi’s buildings! Gaudi was a real genius and we would have never gotten to know any of that if we had visited his buildings on our own.

Free Museums

Most Barcelona museums have specific days or hours when you can visit them free of charge. In general, you can expect most museums to be free on the first Sunday of the month. But there are also additional times when you can enter free of charge.

For example, the Picasso Museum is free to visit on the first Sunday of the month and also on Thursday evenings. Barcelona Cathedral (not to be confused with Sagrada Familia) is free to visit between 8.30 AM and 12.30 PM and in the evenings from 5.45 PM to 7.30 PM (hours vary a bit per day and on some days are a bit longer, but the hours indicated here apply daily).

Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA Plaça del Rei) is free on the first Sunday of the month and in the late afternoon on other Sundays.

These are just a few examples – there are so many museums and other attractions in Barcelona. So do your research for the places you want to see and, if possible, time your visit accordingly.

City Cards & Package Deals

If you are planning to visit several of the main Barcelona attractions on your own, you may want to look into getting one of the city cards that offer discounts and free entrances to certain attractions and also public transport tickets.

There is also a museum card that gives access to 6 of the most popular museums in Barcelona. So do your research and see if and which card makes sense for you, depending on your interests.

TIP: If you find the choice overwhelming, we recommend this Barcelona Pass . This is the best pass for Barcelona’s top sights including Park Güell & Sagrada Familia. If you also want to visit the towers of the Sagrada Familia (recommended), then this all-in pass is the best option for you. In case you wonder, there is a lift to get to the top of the towers.

Good to know: These passes not only save you money but make it really easy to book fast-track tickets to the most popular attractions in one place. Furthermore, the tickets are digital so you don’t have to waste your time once you get there!

3. Avoid High Season, Bank Holidays, and School Breaks

As one of the most-visited cities in Europe, Barcelona is always busy . Still, there is a huge difference between visiting Barcelona in the high season (June-August), in the shoulder season (April-May and September-October + New Year), or in the low season when there are fewer international travelers and hardly any cruise ships in town.

Because we travel with kids, however, we can only travel during school breaks. For years, we have been postponing a trip to Barcelona for that reason. However, we decided that it was high time to see this iconic city and chose the first week of November (autumn break) for our trip.

We were pleasantly surprised. It was still busy at the main attractions in the city, but it never really felt too crowded or overwhelming AND we had quite a few amazing places almost to ourselves.

Needless to say that this greatly influenced our experience and we loved Barcelona so much more than I ever expected. Based on all the horror stories about the crowds, we were really fearing the worst. But what we found was a really pleasant city that gave us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sights without having to brush elbows with thousands of strangers.

Furthermore, the weather in early November was fabulous with plenty of sunshine and temperatures that were warm enough to wear a t-shirt during the day.

So if you can, visit Barcelona in the shoulder season or in the low season. It will be so much more enjoyable!

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe

4. Stay in the City Center

Another very important thing to take into account when traveling to Barcelona is where to stay .

While it’s often tempting to choose cheaper accommodation further away from the city center, we have learned the hard way that it’s not the best idea. Yes, it can save you some money, but it will cost you time and comfort. It’s so easy if you can just walk to a nice restaurant for dinner from your hotel or sleep longer in the morning knowing that your tour starts right around the corner and not on the other side of town…

So if you are visiting Barcelona for the first time and want to make the most of your short trip, stay in the city center! Also, stay somewhat close to a metro station – that way you can always get to the other parts of town quicker.

We recommend staying in the area close to Plaça de Catalunya . It’s a perfect location for sightseeing and you can easily walk to most attractions in the old town or to the nicest Gaudi buildings… There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, and most tours and excursions start in this area.

Here are our hand-picked recommendations with an excellent location near Plaça de Catalunya for all budgets:

• If you are looking for a really nice place to stay in the heart of Barcelona, check out Ohla Barcelona , a fabulous 5* hotel with a rooftop pool and bar.
• Some of the best mid-range 4* hotels are Acta Atrium Palace and  Exe Plaza Catalunya .
• If you are on a l ower budget , check out these popular and highly-rated options with excellent locations: Hotel Lloret Ramblas (the best-rated and most popular budget hotel in the center) or  Hostal Boqueria (a very good, simple hotel on a low budget).

Where we stayed: We stayed at the Acta Splendid Hotel.  The location couldn’t be better and the price/quality was unbeatable for this area.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in central Barcelona (Plaça de Catalunya area).

Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. Check it out!

5. Explore the Gothic Quarter

One of the most beautiful parts of Barcelona is the old Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). No visit to the city would be complete without exploring this fascinating area.

While the district gets its name thanks to the 13-15th century Gothic buildings, it’s actually the oldest part of Barcelona with archeological finds dating to Roman times.

The main landmarks here are the Cathedral of Barcelona (The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia), Plaça del Rei , and the underground Roman city that is part of the earlier mentioned Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA). But the real charm of the Gothic Quarter is its fascinating maze of streets and historic buildings.

TIP: This part of town can get really busy. The best time to visit is as early in the morning as possible, or in the low season.

6. Use Barcelona Metro

Barcelona is a big city and its attractions are scattered throughout. So no matter where you stay, eventually, you’ll find yourself in need of a transfer. By far the easiest and the fastest way to get around the city is by taking the metro . And, if you avoid peak times, the metro is surprisingly quiet.

There are all kinds of multi-day and multi-journey tickets available for Barcelona metro and public transport, so choose one that best suits your needs. When we traveled, we got a 10-journey card that could be used by multiple people at the same time. Names and conditions of these cards change often, and you can find the best up-to-date information on the official website .

If you’re just taking the metro (so not a bus and other public transport options), you can easily get ticket cards at any metro station as well. There are ticket machines and everything is well-explained, also in English. Credit cards are accepted.

TIP: You can also take a metro to the airport , but it takes very long (it took us over 1.5 hrs to get to the city center). Alternatively, there are airport shuttle buses that run frequently, cost about the same as the metro ticket, and take much less time. On our way back to the airport, we took a taxi and it was surprisingly affordable. You can find more information about Barcelona airport transport here .

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Just as with any city trip, traveling to Barcelona means that you’ll be walking a lot. Make sure that you wear comfortable walking shoes!

Take my word for it, wrong footwear can ruin your entire vacation. Get lightweight sneakers or slip-on shoes for your Barcelona trip. I wear and recommend shoes in this style ; they are light and comfy – ideal for city trips.

TIP: If you don’t like walking too much, consider taking a hop-on hop-off bus instead.

8. Adjust Your Dining Schedule

You may have heard this before – Spanish people have very different habits when it comes to dining times. The main meal of the day is lunch and it usually starts at around 2 – 2.30 PM. Most restaurants will not open for dinner before 8 – 9 PM.

We were a bit worried about late dinner times because we traveled to Barcelona with kids, but it worked out quite well. Since it’s such a touristy place, there are quite some restaurants that have adapted their opening times and it was usually possible to find a place to eat at 7.30-8 PM.

We were told that the best local restaurants don’t open before 8.30-9 PM, but we found plenty of good restaurants that do.

That being said, you won’t easily find a good local restaurant open for dinner before 7 – 7.30 PM.

9. Try Tapas

No visit to Barcelona would be complete without tapas . In case you don’t know what tapas are, this is just a popular Spanish word for small snacks. Like appetizers in the US or antipasti in Italy. Basically, tapas are just small-sized portions of food – from seafood, meat, to all kinds of vegetables or potatoes ( patatas bravas ).

Everywhere you go, you’ll see tapas on the menu. It’s a great way to try a big variety of Spanish food without having to order an entire dish not knowing whether you’ll like it. It’s ideal if you are traveling with a bigger family or a group of friends because you can order a big variety of tapas and everyone will easily find something they like.

Some restaurants have set tapas menus which are a real lifesaver if you are feeling overwhelmed. After a couple of tapas meals, you’ll get more familiar with the concept, and ordering tapas will actually be fun.

Good to know: Tapas are EVERYWHERE in Barcelona, but they are not the only option (luckily). If you stay in Barcelona longer, it’s quite likely that you’ll eventually get tired of tapas. No worries – there are plenty of restaurants serving traditional Spanish food, seafood, paellas, but also a big variety of international cuisines. After five days in Barcelona, our kids didn’t want to see or hear of any more tapas, so we found a really nice pasta restaurant that the whole family loved.

TIP: If you want to try some of the best local dishes, consider joining a food tour as well! Food tours are our favorite thing to do when visiting any city! Check out this highly-rated tapas & wine tour . Another popular choice is this paella cooking experience + Boqueria market visit .

10. Tipping in Barcelona

Generally speaking, tipping is not that common in Europe, and so also not in Spain. However, American habits quickly find their way here too and it’s now more and more common to tip. That being said, it’s never really expected, let alone obligatory.

In Barcelona, you do not have to tip and locals usually don’t tip or just round up the bill. If you find the restaurant service exceptionally good, you can tip 5-10%. It’s not common to tip at a bar. Taxi bills are usually just rounded up. For bellboys – a euro or two is enough.

Many people tip tour guides, but it’s really your call how much. In Europe, we usually tip 20 EUR for a day tour that we take as a family of 5. If you are alone or traveling as a couple, 5-10 EUR is acceptable, but most Europeans don’t even do that.

11. It’s OK to Haggle

If you are planning to buy any souvenirs from street vendors, at the markets, or at the tourist shops in town, you should know that haggling is completely acceptable. Very often, you’ll see that no prices are advertised and in such cases, you definitely have to haggle or you’ll be overpaying up to twice the price, if not more.

It’s also very common that the same souvenirs will cost twice as much close to the most popular tourist landmarks, compared to some lesser-visited places. However, it’s not always the case.

My best advice is not to buy souvenirs immediately. Take your time, ask for prices, and get a better idea of what’s acceptable before buying anything.

12. Know That Things Are Laid Back

Barcelona is a very laid-back place. You’ll notice it in many ways. Depending on where you’re from and what you’re used to, things might seem a bit too relaxed, or maybe just normal…

The best way to enjoy your time in Barcelona is just go with the flow. Don’t get upset if it takes a bit longer for a waiter to take your order, or if the shops are closed for siesta a bit longer than advertised…

Good thing is that Barcelona is also much more casual in terms of clothing than, for example, Madrid. There is no need for fancy clothing and even at dinner at some nicer restaurants we dined at, most people were quite casually dressed. That being said, when in doubt, I’m always in favor of overdressing.

13. Beware of Pickpockets

Just as in any other big city or popular tourist destination, Barcelona has a problem with pickpockets. These guys are real professionals and it’s not uncommon that they manage to distract attention and even rob a big group of people at the same time.

So take precautions and don’t carry too much money or any other unnecessary valuables around. Also, make sure that you have good travel insurance! Be careful at the most popular tourist places, such as La Rambla or around La Sagrada Familia, and also when using public transport.

An anti-theft backpack might be a good idea too. Or – if you have a regular backpack – wear it in front of you and not on your back. Also, it’s really not a good idea to store your wallet or your smartphone in your jeans pocket.

14. Don’t Try to See Everything

Barcelona is a huge city and there is so much to see and do ! But… there’s no way to see everything in just a couple of days. So plan your itinerary well! If you don’t know where to start, check out our tips on how to spend 1 day in Barcelona and also an itinerary for 2 days in Barcelona .

I recommend choosing a couple of must-see places each day or maybe one specific area, and not try to do it all at once. You’ll enjoy the city much more if you also leave some time for a relaxing lunch at a nice café or some unexpected discoveries.

When it comes to visiting Barcelona, remember that less is more!

I know that it’s very tempting to try and see as many landmarks as you possibly can, but you’ll just get tired and frustrated. Take your time to sample some local specialties at the market, turn into a little picturesque alley and see where it leads, or explore some lesser-known places that don’t involve standing in line for hours… This brings us to the next tip…

15. Get off the Beaten Path

Barcelona is so much more than its most famous landmarks , La Rambla, Gothic Quarter, Barceloneta beach, or Gaudi architecture… There are so many other amazing places that are worth visiting just as much, yet are overlooked by most first-time visitors.

Some of our favorite moments in Barcelona were visiting the lesser-known and less-visited places . And while it’s not easy to find any truly ‘hidden’ gems, even just getting a bit off the main tourist routes will show you a very different side of Barcelona.

One of our favorite places in Barcelona was the beautiful Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site , which we had practically to ourselves. While it is not completely unknown, it was completely deserted when we visited it in the low season… And so worth a visit!

We particularly enjoyed the Port Vell and La Barceloneta – an old fishermen’s quarter with narrow streets and local restaurants. And yes, there is a really busy area in this part of town as well – with a seaside promenade, fancy yachts, and tourist restaurants. But if you take the time to explore deeper, you find a totally different place, just a few blocks away…

The same counts for the El Born and La Ribera areas which are like a labyrinth of narrow streets and passageways – so fun to just get lost and explore this area without a map.

We also went to a more local Poublenou area and explored Gracia , L’Eixample , and Montjuïc on foot. We visited some little-known sights and some really nice markets that had many more locals than tourists (Mercado de La Boqueria is really not the only market worth seeing in Barcelona)…

Each and every area has something special and unique. Behind the busier streets and popular areas, there are always lesser-visited gems just waiting to be discovered.

Even if you just see a few of these more local areas, it will make your trip to Barcelona so much more memorable.

16. Attend a Performance at Palau de la Música Catalana

If you want to experience something really special in Barcelona, try to get tickets for a performance at Palau de la Música Catalana . This stunning music hall is a real masterpiece and worth visiting in itself, but it’s even more special if you can attend a concert here.

They organize various concerts every evening and also during the day on the weekends. From classical music and dance to the most modern musical performances and traditional Flamenco dances – there are always plenty of choices to suit any interest. Most of the time, tickets are available just a few days in advance (or even on the day itself), so check the program and go. It will be totally worth it!

Good to know: You can also just visit the music hall itself. Self-guided and guided tours are available throughout the day and take less than an hour. Here you can get tickets for your visit .

17. Escape the Hustle of the City for a Day

Visiting a busy city like Barcelona can leave you exhausted, especially if you are not used to the crowds or if the summer heat becomes too much for you.

While most tourists head to Barceloneta beach , you’ll hardly find any locals there. The better beaches (nicer and also less crowded) can be found a bit further away. Try Playa de Bogatell if you don’t want to go too far. Or – outside of town – Platja de Castelldefels in the south or Platja de Badalona in the north of Barcelona.

The most popular day trip outside of the city is visiting Montserrat Monastery . Because it’s located in the mountains, the temperatures are usually cooler there too. We also took this day trip and here you can read all about our Montserrat tour .

These are just a few examples of places to visit outside the city. There are many more beautiful areas that you can visit on a day trip from Barcelona! Here are a few other popular options:

• Catamaran Sailing Tours (1.5-2 hrs)
• Kayaking & snorkeling (half a day)
• Hot air balloon flights (half a day)
• Vineyards near the city (half a day)
• Girona and Costa Brava (full day)
• Girona, Figueres and Dalí Museum (full day)
• 3 Countries in a Day (full day)

So if you are staying in town for more than 2-3 days, I suggest you take at least one day trip to see more of the surroundings or just to escape the crowds. As a minimum, rent a bike and drive along the beach – there is a beautiful waterfront promenade with bike paths that bring you to the quieter beaches and districts of Barcelona.

18. Stay Clear of Politics and Protests

Political protests in Catalonia are not uncommon. There were huge protests and even riots in Barcelona just a few days before our trip, and there were also some violent protests in the city while we were there.

But, in general, these protests don’t really influence your travel experience much (unless they block an airport, which happened once a few years ago).

My best advice is to just stay clear of any political protests. If you see any demonstrations, just walk around or take another street. Barcelona is a big city and the chances that you’ll find yourself amidst the protesters are really not that high.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some  more practical tips  to consider when traveling to Barcelona for the first time:

• You can  pay  by credit card pretty much everywhere, but it’s always useful to have some cash as well. Spain uses the EURO .
• If you don’t have a credit card with a chip and a 4-digit pin , check out this selection of  the best American credit cards for travel and get one – you’ll need a car with a pin everywhere in Europe. I recommend choosing  a card with no foreign transaction fees .
• While you can easily get around using English , it’s always useful to learn a couple of words of Spanish or Catalan. Hola (hello) and gracias (thank you) go a long way.
• Barcelona has a pretty good network of free WiFi with hundreds of access points throughout the city. Hotels and some restaurants also usually offer free wifi.
• Download an offline map of Barcelona using apps like Google Maps or Maps.me. It’s so much easier than a paper map and you can always easily find your way around.
• Make sure to pack a travel adapter . Spain uses  European plugs .
• Remember that many shops and markets are closed on Sunday . However, most museums and other attractions remain open. We chose to do a Gaudi tour on a Sunday and it worked out great.
• Pack comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the season. It can get really warm in Barcelona and sun protection is an absolute must in summer. Don’t forget your sun hat !
• Make a copy of your travel documents and send it to yourself by email (or save it in the cloud). As with any international trip, make sure that you have good travel insurance .

So, these are some of the most important practical tips that you should know when traveling to Barcelona for the first time.

Below, you can also find some frequently asked questions for your first visit to Barcelona. Take a look!

Barcelona Travel FAQs

The best time to visit Barcelona are the shoulder months between March and May and also from September to October. The weather is best for sightseeing and it’s not as busy as in the summer.

While you can see the main landmarks of Barcelona in one or two days, we recommend at least 3-4 days for your first trip to Barcelona. This will allow you to explore the city at a more relaxed pace, visit Gaudi buildings and a few museums, and maybe even take a tour to Montserrat.

Barcelona is a very popular destination, so it’s best to book your accommodation and the tours that you absolutely want to do in advance. Make sure to book skip-the-line tickets for the most popular landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia!

Yes, Barcelona is a safe destination. However, just like in any other big European city, you should be careful with pickpockets and common travel scams. If you are not sure about visiting certain areas at night, ask your hotel for advice.

We recommend staying in the area close to Plaça de Catalunya . The location is perfect for sightseeing and you can easily walk to the most popular attractions in the city center. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby. Most tours also start in this area.

Do you have any questions or maybe want to share your experience when visiting Barcelona? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!

More tips for your trip to Spain:

• Best Things to Do in Barcelona
• Barcelona 1 Day Itinerary
• How to See the Best of Barcelona in 2 Days
• Complete Guide to Visiting Montserrat
• Montserrat Tour Review
• Best Barcelona Gaudi Tour
• 1 Day in Seville
• 2 Days in Seville
• Flamenco in Seville
• One Day in Madrid: What to See & Itinerary
• Madrid to Toledo Day Trip

READ ALSO: Spain Bucket List: Top Places & Experiences

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More travel inspiration for European cities:

If you are visiting other European cities and are looking for in-depth information for your trip, take a look at some of our city guides:

• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Antwerp, Belgium
• Bern, Switzerland
• Bologna, Italy
• Brasov, Romania
• Brussels, Belgium
• Bruges, Belgium
• Bucharest, Romania
• Colmar, France
• Edinburgh, UK
• Florence, Italy
• Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Krakow, Poland
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Liverpool, UK
• Lucerne, Switzerland
• Manchester, UK
• Milan, Italy
• Naples, Italy
• Paris, France
• Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal
• Ravenna, Italy
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Rome, Italy
• Salzburg, Austria
• Siena, Italy
• Sintra, Portugal
• Venice, Italy
• Verona, Italy
• Read also our tips for traveling to Europe .

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Tuesday 13th of June 2023

Hi Jurga! I love your blog and I'm planning to visit Barcelona in October. Did the Acta Splendid charge you a resort fee in addition to the price of the room & tax?.....Elaine

Wednesday 14th of June 2023

Hi Elaine, I don't remember hotel charging us any special fees. When you book on Booking.com, it's always very clearly shown what's included. Usually, for most places, they already include the city tax in the price, or show you how much it will be. For Acta Splendid, if I try just random dates, I see that it shows me in the booking window that 10% VAT and City tax are included in the price. What sometimes happens is that you first get charged just for the room and then have to pay the taxes at the property separately. But the total price you see on Booking is usually the total of what you'll pay in the end (unless clearly stated otherwise). That's a big difference vs. booking with hotels directly. Most hotels don't show taxes in their price at first and then add it to your bill later. This way, you might think that you are paying less but, often, it's quite the opposite. Just one more reason why we always use Booking.com for all our accommodation bookings. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

10 things to know before visiting Barcelona

Aug 7, 2023 • 6 min read

In the peak of summer Barcelona's city beaches get busy, read on for where to go instead © Westend61 / Getty Images

Barcelona is the kind of city that casts a spell over its visitors. Enticed by the epic architecture and promise of deep-running history set in the context of a coastal Mediterranean getaway, millions of travelers arrive every year to see the charms of Barcelona for themselves. 

Despite this popularity, it’s often misunderstood – especially if you fail to escape the typical tourist pitfalls. For me, though, it’s a city that always called me back and a place where I felt the most at home, but I admit that there are many missteps travelers can make in a city this big, popular and culturally complicated.

Today, the spotlight often shines on Barcelona for its overtourism problem, and local resentment makes itself known through aggressive graffiti near popular attractions. In some cases, this has even forced city officials to restrict access to once off-the-grid spots like the Carmel Bunkers , simply because the crowds have gotten out of control. In my years of living in Barcelona, I’ve learned how to avoid shoulder-to-shoulder crowds and enjoy the city as a local would. Here’s everything you should know before you come to Barcelona, from the essential safety tips to the cultural landscape.

1. You can’t see the whole city in a day

Barcelona may not be the biggest city you’ve ever been to, but it is massive when you consider all the ways you can entertain yourself. Because there is so much to see, the ideal number of days for a trip to Barcelona is between two and five. That should be enough to cover the must-sees, but if you want to explore more in the surrounding area, 10 days would give you additional time to plan day trips either to nearby cava wineries, the Costa Brava , or even as far north as the Pyrenees for a day of skiing.

2. There will be lots of tourists

There’s no use denying that overtourism is an issue in Barcelona, but you can plan to avoid the crowds by traveling during the off-season or trying to get an early start on the day before the cruise ships pull in and the streets fill up with visitors.

You can also book many tickets in advance so you don’t have to wait in the long lines, but in some places, you won’t be able to avoid the crowds. Try to space out the big attractions in your itinerary so you have some breathing room in between, ie, don’t go from the Sagrada Familia to Casa Batllò .

3. Avoid traveling during big events

Barcelona draws big acts from around the world every summer as a mainstay on the music festival circuit. But unless you’ve got your ticket to Primavera Sound or Sonar already, you may want to avoid traveling during these weekends or any other time when large trade fairs, like the Mobile World Congress, take over the city. It’s already an expensive city, but accommodation rates skyrocket when a big influx of visitors is on its way.

4. Know what cultural events to look for

If you want to have an authentic cultural experience in Barcelona, you can look for local events that embrace Catalan traditions like the parades of giants, human tower gatherings, Sardana dance circles and the Correfoc fire parades. You may stumble across them if you’re traveling over a holiday like Holy Week, but if you want to secure your odds, make a trip in September when the city celebrates La Mercè, one of Barcelona’s patron Saints, with a week of festivities that include cultural events and free concerts.

5. There’s more than one Rambla

Everyone will tell you La Rambla is a must-do, but for me, walking the Rambla feels a lot like walking through Times Square back at home – crowded, touristy, and to be avoided whenever possible. Thankfully, the city has more than one Rambla, where you can actually enjoy the slow strolling these city features were built for. In the center, you can venture down the Rambla del Raval with its famous Botero cat sculpture, or go a little bit out of the way to walk the Rambla del Poblenou from Diagonal all the way down to the beach.

6. The beaches get better the further away from the city center you get

Barceloneta is the most famous beach in Barcelona, and the adjacent neighborhood is worth checking out for its narrow streets and great tapas spots, but travel further down if you actually want to lay out on the beach. Barceloneta can get very crowded and noisy with tourists, so walk or cab your way past Port Olímpic to Platja de la Mar Bella . Because all the beaches in Barcelona are artificial, built for the 1992 Olympic games, the sand isn’t the nicest, to be frank. If you can travel outside the city to Sitges or up the Costa Brava , you’ll find more tranquil and scenic beaches.

7. Get to know Catalan culture

An autonomous region of Spain , the subject of Catalan independence is still a touch-and-go, but you should be respectful to the locals by learning about all the distinct characteristics that give Catalans their cultural identity. Show a little curiosity, and locals will be more than happy to tell you all about their favorite traditions, from wintertime onion barbecues to the cheeky caganer ("the pooper") a beloved Christmas icon.

8. Catalan is not a dialect of Spanish

If you’re looking for the quickest way to offend a Catalan, this is the one. Almost everyone in Barcelona can speak Catalan and Spanish, and the tourism circuit is well set up for English-speaking clientele, so you should have no problem getting around. However, you can make a good impression on your hosts by learning a few words. Some are similar to Spanish and French, like “ Hola ” and “ Merci ” for “Hello” and” Thank you,” but you can also try “ Bon día ” for “Good morning” and “ Adéu ” for “Goodbye.”

9. Pickpockets are a real issue

Just about everyone in Barcelona has a first or second-hand pickpocketing story, including me (they slipped two credit cards out of my wallet while I was working on my laptop in a crowded cafe). You should never let your guard down, especially when riding the metro or walking down crowded tourist areas like La Rambla. Keep your phone put away whenever you’re not using it, and never leave it sitting out on the table if you’re dining outside.

1o. Public transportation is safe and efficient

Although you do have to mind your belongings for the nefarious pickpockets, one of the best things about living in Barcelona is how easy and efficient public transportation is. I’ve had generally positive experiences, and it’s easy to connect to the major train and bus stations for adventures outside the city.

You may also see the red shared bikes called Bicing, but don’t bother trying to rent one because they’re only for residents. If you want to take advantage of Barcelona’s bike lanes, you’ll have to get a rental from a shop, but be strategic about how and where you lock it – bike thieves are as common as pickpockets.

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35 Must-Knows For Traveling to Barcelona the First Time

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, get ready for an adventure in one of Spain’s most dynamic and beautiful cities. Known for its art, architecture, and vibrant street life, Barcelona is a place where every day brings something new and exciting.

I live in Spain and have spent a lot of time wandering through the streets of Barcelona, which has given me the chance to pick up more than a few tips and insights along the way that can really take your visit to the next level.

But what are the things you need to know before traveling to Barcelona? Well, from the top sights to must-try foods and essential travel tips, you’ll see just what you need to know to make your first trip to Barcelona unforgettable.

Planning a trip to Barcelona last minute?

If you’re booking your  trip to Barcelona last minute, I’ve got you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

⭐  Most popular sights in Barcelona

• Sagrada Familia – tickets often sell out weeks in advance so get your entry ticket here (or entry tickets AND a guided tour here)
• Park Güell – grab your skip-the-line entry
• Casa Batlló – click here for tickets and audio guide

🌍 Top tours in Barcelona

• Montserrat Tour, Monastery and Winery (great day trip!)
• Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes (incredible night out)
• Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine, and History (all the highlights at once)

🛏️ Top hotels in Barcelona

• Ohla Barcelona (5-star luxury with an amazing rooftop pool)
• Seventy Barcelona (boutique hotel with beautiful décor)
• Àmfores Boutique Guest House (great budget option with superb location)

🚌 Want free public transport while you’re in Barcelona? Check out the Hola Barcelona travel card !

Table of Contents

1. Book early to avoid missing out on popular spots

The biggest thing I hear people say that they wish they knew before coming to Barcelona is that they should have booked things earlier.

So if you’ve got your heart set on marveling at the twists and towers of the Sagrada Familia or strolling through the mosaic wonderland of Park Güell , here’s the scoop: these spots can sell out weeks in advance. 

Yep, you read that right. Waiting until you’re in Barcelona could mean you’ll miss out on these iconic sights entirely. 

So, while you’re planning which tapas to try first, take a moment to book your tickets online. It’s not just about skipping the line (which is a sweet bonus, by the way!), but securing your spot is crucial. 

This way, you’re guaranteed to step inside Gaudí’s dreamscapes rather than just admiring them from the outside.

2. Choose comfortable shoes for your days out exploring

Barcelona’s charm unfolds on foot, from the alleys of El Raval to the elegance of Eixample. But remember, those cobblestone streets aren’t kind to flimsy flip-flops or heels. 

(Also, to be honest, Barcelona fashion tends to look at flip-flops as a no-no away from the beach anyway.)

That’s why you should do yourself a favor and pack a pair of trusty shoes that hug your feet in all the right places. I’m talking arch support that could withstand a day at the Mercat de Sant Josep or an impromptu hike up to Montjuïc. 

And remember, breathable materials will be your best friend when you’re wandering around for hours under the Mediterranean sun. So lace-up and step out – Barcelona’s endless streetscapes await.

3. When visiting in the high season, expect and prepare for more people

Visiting Barcelona when the sun’s out and the schools are closed means you’ll be sharing the city with, well, everyone. It’s when the locals and travelers alike pour into the streets, creating an electric atmosphere that’s palpable. 

From the human towers at a neighborhood festival to the crowded terraces in Plaça Reial, the city feels alive. Sure, you’ll be rubbing elbows with tourists at La Boqueria or waiting a bit longer to see the Picasso Museum, but it’s all part of the city’s summer song. 

So head into the throngs with a smile and the understanding that every moment of wait is an opportunity to soak up the local vibes, strike up a conversation, or simply people-watch – although, yes, it’s also a good idea to pack a healthy dose of patience in your hand luggage for the peak periods. 

4. Make public transportation your go-to

Alright, let’s talk about getting around. Barcelona’s public transport system is your best friend here – it’s reliable, it covers most of the city, and hey, it’s eco-friendly too. 

The metro will zip you from the Gothic Quarter to Gaudí’s Park Güell before you can say “modernisme.” Buses are aplenty, and they’re great for those routes where you get to peep at the city life outside the window. 

And for a real slice of local life, jump on the trams – they’re a smooth ride and a perfect way to give those feet a break.

5. Venture to lesser-known beaches

If you’re traveling to Barcelona, you might have your eye on a beach day at some point during your trip. And while Barceloneta is the most famous one, if you’re looking for some tranquility by the sea, Barcelona’s got hidden nooks along the coast that locals like me treasure. 

That’s why I’d actually suggest that you skip the well-trodden path to Barceloneta and venture out to spots like Ocata Beach, where the sands stretch wide and the vibe is laid-back. These lesser-known beaches offer a slice of serenity with plenty of space to sprawl out, and the waves are just as inviting. 

Pack a picnic, grab a book, or just bask in the sun – these quieter beaches are perfect for a leisurely day where the only sounds are the sea and your own heartbeat.

6. Leave room in your budget for Gaudí’s architectural wonders

If you’re traveling to Barcelona on a budget, I’ve definitely been there, done that. But while there are certainly bargains to be found for things like food, there are some must-sees that are worth the cost.

And on that list, I’d put seeing some of Gaudí’s masterpieces at the very top, especially the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell.

I get it if the prices seem a tad steep, but the feeling of craning your neck up inside the Sagrada Familia or touching the mosaics in Park Güell – that’s priceless. 

So, when you’re planning your budget, give Gaudí’s creations a generous slice. It’s a splurge that will stay with you long after you’ve left the city’s embrace.

FYI: If you’re looking to visit both the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell and you’re short on time, you can get skip-the-line entry and a tour of both sights in one day right here .

7. It’s also fine to pass by some of Gaudí’s works for free

…at the same time, you don’t always need a ticket to appreciate art, and Gaudí’s buildings are proof of that. Even the best Barcelona travel guide books will scream at you to visit all of these but, to be honest, even just seeing them from the outside is going to be great in many cases.

For this, take a leisurely walk down Passeig de Gràcia, and you’ll find Casa Milá (La Pedrera) and Casa Batlló waiting to greet you with their surreal facades. 

These structures are alive with stories, and as you wander past, you’re tracing the outlines of Barcelona’s cultural heartbeat. If you’re up for it, park yourself at one of the nearby cafés and just gaze at these wonders over a cortado. 

Watch the light change, see the balconies cast shadows on the pavement, and observe people’s reactions as they look up – it’s a simple, yet complete, Gaudí experience.

8. Download the Cabify app

Sometimes, you just need your own space, and that’s where Cabify comes in. It’s like the local cousin of Uber – just as handy and without the surge pricing surprises. 

I use it all the time rather than taking taxis, as it means I can lock in the fare and the route ahead of time. I find it infinitely better than taxis which can often, shall we say, feel inclined to take foreigners on the “scenic” (read: more expensive” route.

Fire up the app, book a ride, and you’ll be on your way to your next tapas stop in no time. Plus, it’s nice to know that you’ve got a clean, safe ride just a few taps away, especially after a late night out when the metro has called it a night.

9. Grab a discount card for the transit savvy

If you’re going to be riding the rails and buses like a local, get yourself a discount card. The Hola Barcelona travel card is a winner – it gives you unlimited travel on the metro, buses, and other public transport. 

That means more money saved for those little indulgences, like another round of patatas bravas or that cute souvenir from El Raval. 

Plus, it’s super convenient – you won’t have to fumble for change or buy a ticket each time you hop on and off. Get it for 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours – it’s your golden ticket to the city.

10. Keep a close eye on your belongings

So, you’re out and about, soaking in the vibrant streets of Barcelona – it’s a sensory overload in the best way. But, here’s the thing – those crowded spots are a playground for pickpockets. 

Now, don’t let this put a damper on your day. Just keep your wits about you. A crossbody bag, worn at the front, or a money belt tucked away is your go-to. 

And those backpacks? They belong on your front when you’re in a throng. 

Just a glance now and then at your stuff can keep the pesky thieves at bay. Stay alert, stay smart, and you’ll be just fine.

11. Enjoy paella for lunch – not dinner

Paella and Barcelona go together like bread and tomato, and here’s a little secret – it’s traditionally a lunchtime dish. Yep, those enormous, aromatic pans of goodness are meant to be savored when the sun’s high, not when it’s setting. 

So when you’re ticking off your foodie list, make sure you’re sitting down to a paella when the locals do. Trust me, there’s nothing like a 2pm paella (yep, they eat meals late here!) to fuel the rest of your day’s adventures.

12. No need to pause for siesta

You might have heard that Spain is the land of siestas, but I’m sorry to break the news to you: most Spaniards don’t actually take a siesta.

It’s ok, you’re forgiven if you think that’s the case as a lot of people do, especially when they see stores closing for a few hours after lunch. But this generally isn’t for a siesta – instead, it’s just to give the shop owner a break so they can stay open longer into the night!

That being said, if you fancy a little break after all that sightseeing, you’ll find plenty of cafes and parks where you can relax and recharge. After all, a little rest is never a bad idea, right?

13. Sign up for a walking or biking tour

Got only a few days in this vibrant city? No worries – a walking or biking tour can be your secret weapon to seeing the best of Barcelona in a short time. 

These tours give you the highlights reel with some neat local insights you might not find in your guidebook. Pedal through the Gothic Quarter or walk the path of Picasso, and let those knowledgeable guides fill you in on the secrets that the city whispers to those who listen. 

Plus, it’s a chance to meet other travelers and swap stories – always a bonus!

If you’re looking for a great tour that will show you the  highlights of Barcelona’s incredible 2,000+ year history , I definitely recommend this  Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour .

You’ll be taken to the best parts of the oldest, most interesting parts of the city, while hearing stories about this time and the centuries that have followed. In particular, for first-timers, it’s a great way to see all the main spots at once.

14. Pack for winter – it’s not always warm year-round

Winter in Barcelona isn’t your typical freeze-fest. The city keeps it mild, but don’t be fooled – when the sun dips down, so does the temperature. 

Bring a jacket that’s got some style (this is a trendy city, after all) and layer up. You’ll want to be cozy when you’re sipping on that hot chocolate with melty churros at a sidewalk café. 

And since the sun likes to play hide and seek, a hat and gloves aren’t a bad idea either – better safe than shivery!

15. Stay cool during the summer

Summer in Barcelona is like living in a sunbeam – warm, bright, and lively. But it can get hot, really hot…and that’s not even mentioning the humidity. 

Light, airy clothing is the way to go – think linens and cottons that let you breathe. And remember, hydration is your best pal – carry a water bottle that you can refill at the city’s many drinking fountains. 

Slap on some sunscreen, pop on a hat, and maybe grab one of those hand-held fans to make those balmy afternoons more bearable as you explore the city’s sunlit streets.

16. The water is safe but the taste is…something

Alright, let’s talk agua. The tap water here in Barcelona? Safe, but it’s got a taste that’s very, very acquired. 

It’s all thanks to the minerals in it – great for the pipes, not always great for your palate. But before you think about buying heaps of plastic water bottles, consider this – get yourself a bottle with a built-in filter. 

My top pick is this Brita filtered water bottle for drinking water on the go. It does a seriously good job of improving the taste of the tap water here, and it’s insulated too, which means your water stays cool.

It’s a win-win! You get to sip on something that tastes like it’s fresh from a mountain spring, and you’re doing Mother Earth a solid by cutting down on plastic waste. 

Just fill up, let the filter do its heavy lifting, and you’re good to go.

17. Get into the festive spirit with Barcelona’s unique Christmas traditions

Now, Barcelona doesn’t do a ‘silent night’ over Christmas – it’s more of a ‘let’s make some noise and have a blast’ kind of vibe. Aside from the twinkling lights and the smell of roasted chestnuts in the air, there’s a whole cast of characters that make a Catalan Christmas unique. 

Like the Caga Tió, a cheerful log that poops out presents when kids beat it with sticks (yes, you read that right). And let’s not forget about the cheeky Caganer, a figure you’ll spot squatting in nativity scenes. 

(Why? It’s a long story, but it’s all in good fun.) 

The Three Kings Parade is the icing on the cake – a dazzling show where the magic of the holiday really comes alive. Floats, fireworks, and a shower of sweets – it’s something that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear.

18. Take time to explore the city’s museums

Imagine stepping into a place where every corner holds a story, where every painting, sculpture, or oddity has a tale to tell. That’s what Barcelona’s museums are like. 

At the Picasso Museum , you can follow the artist’s journey from his early sketches to his greatest masterpieces. And the MNAC isn’t just a museum – it’s an epic ride through art history, with Romanesque murals that will make you feel like you’ve time-traveled.

Or for something a little more avant-garde, the Miró Foundation is a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes. So, take your time. Let each piece tell you its story. 

Who knows? You might walk out seeing the world a little differently. And remember, these cultural havens are perfect for those days when the sun’s too much or the clouds roll in.

19. Adapt to the local dining schedule

So, you might notice something funny when you wander into a restaurant at what you think is dinner time – it’s as quiet as a library. That’s because in Barcelona, dinner is a late affair, often starting around 9 PM and stretching well into the night. 

It’s not just about eating – it’s about relaxing with friends, sharing stories, and enjoying life. Restaurants buzz with energy well past what many consider bedtime. 

So if you find yourself hungry at 7 PM, join the locals for some tapas or a vermut as a warm-up act. Then, when it’s actual dinner time, you’ll be ready to join in the fun, whether that’s at a beachside chiringuito or a bustling bodega in the Barri Gòtic.

20. Plan at least one day trip

Barcelona’s allure is strong, but don’t miss out on the adventures that await just a short journey away. Within an hour or two, you can take a day trip to Montserrat to swap cityscapes for it dramatic vistas, with its serrated mountains and serene monastery. 

Or maybe you’re a fan of the bubbly? A day trip to the cava vineyards of Penedès isn’t just about wine tasting – it’s about strolling through vineyards and soaking in the rural charm. 

If quaint coastal towns call your name, Sitges awaits with open arms , offering sandy beaches, a dash of art history, and a slower pace. Each day trip offers a taste of Catalonia beyond the city limits, a chance to slow down and see what life is like outside the hustle and bustle.

21. Practice a few phrases in Catalan and Spanish

Barcelona’s heart beats in two languages: Catalan and Spanish. While you’ll get by just fine with English, especially in tourist spots, there’s something special about exchanging a few words in the local tongue. 

Start with a cheerful ‘Bon dia’ (good morning in Catalan) at the coffee shop, or a friendly ‘Buenas tardes’ (good afternoon in Spanish) to the bus driver. You’ll notice smiles, nods of appreciation, and a warm response that you just don’t get with English. 

It’s about showing respect for the local culture, and believe me, even if you bungle the pronunciation, your effort won’t go unnoticed. Plus, it’s the perfect ice-breaker for those moments when you find yourself sharing a table at a crowded tapas bar or browsing a local market.

22. Sample the local specialty, cava

Let’s talk bubbles – cava, Catalonia’s answer to champagne, and a must-try when you’re here. This fizzy delight isn’t just for toasting – it’s for enjoying at any hour (within reason, of course). 

You’ll find cava at any local bar, but for the real deal, take a jaunt to a cava bar where they pair it with everything from salty snacks to sweet treats. 

Want to go all out? As just mentioned a bit earlier, head for a day trip to the Penedès wine region , just a short trip from Barcelona, where you can tour the vineyards and learn how this sparkling wine is made. 

It’s a day out that will give you a whole new appreciation for every pop of the cork.

23. Educate yourself on the complexities of the Catalan independence movement

Barcelona isn’t just sun and siestas – it’s a city with a story, part of which is the push and pull of the Catalan independence movement. It’s complex, it’s passionate, and it’s woven into the fabric of everyday life here. 

You’ll see flags on balconies and stickers on lampposts. If you’re really curious, pick up a history book or chat with a local who’s willing to share their perspective. 

It’s a conversation that can offer insight into the fierce pride and enduring spirit of the Catalan people. Just remember to approach the topic with sensitivity – it’s a real issue that affects real lives.

24. Remember, tipping isn’t customary

Now, let’s talk about tipping. In Barcelona, it’s not the norm to leave a hefty tip after a meal – the price on the menu is what you pay, and service is usually included. 

But hey, if you’ve received service that made your day, feel free to leave a euro or two as a thank you. It’s not expected, but it’s definitely appreciated. 

The same goes for taxis and cafes. Consider it a way to say ‘gracias’ for service that’s gone above and beyond.

25. Locals prefer a drink that’s not sangria

On those warm Barcelona afternoons when you’re looking for something to quench your thirst, let me let you in on a little local secret: forget the sangria and order a ‘tinto de verano’ instead. 

It’s what the locals sip on – red wine mixed with a bubbly lemon soda, served over ice with a slice of lemon. It’s less sweet than sangria, incredibly refreshing, and just the thing to cool you down without slowing you down. 

Find yourself a spot at a streetside café, watch the world go by, and you’ll feel like you’ve got this Barcelona lifestyle down.

26. Learn about the friendly double kiss

Here’s a fun fact: when you meet someone in Barcelona, don’t be surprised if they lean in for a kiss on each cheek. It’s a greeting as warm as the Catalan sun and it’s how the locals say ‘hello’ or ‘nice to meet you.’ 

It’s not a real kiss, more like a cheek touch with a kissing sound, but it’s a sign of friendliness and acceptance. 

So, don’t be shy. Embrace it – it’s a lovely way to break the ice and makes introductions a little more personal. Just go with the flow and return the gesture. It’s all part of the charm!

27. English in tourist areas, but not everywhere

Now, if you’re sticking to the well-trodden path of tourist spots, you’ll find that English gets you by just fine. From the Sagrada Familia to the buzzing La Rambla, many Barcelonians in these areas speak enough English to help you out with directions, recommendations, and any of those pesky travel questions you might have. 

But once you step off the beaten track, English becomes more of a rare bird. It’s a good idea to have a translation app handy or a few key Spanish phrases in your pocket. 

It’s part of the adventure, and hey, miming can be a pretty fun way to communicate too!

28. Look up any local festivals

Barcelona never really sleeps, and there’s always some sort of fiesta going on in one of its vibrant barrios. From the fire-run parades of Correfoc to the street parties of La Mercè, these festivals are the soul of the city. 

Do yourself a favor and check if there’s one happening during your stay. It’s your ticket to live music, traditional dances, and a chance to mingle with the locals as they celebrate age-old traditions. 

There’s usually plenty of food stalls around too, so you can nibble on local treats as you soak up the atmosphere.

29. Carry a photocopy of your passport 

When you’re out and about discovering the nooks and crannies of Barcelona, keep a photocopy of your saved to the cloud on your phone. It’s a little thing, but it’s important.

The last thing you want is to lose your passport when you’re chilling on vacation and a copy will often suffice if you need to identify yourself.

It also means you can leave the real deal locked up safely back at your accommodation. Just one less thing to worry about, right?

30. Get ready for a night out to start late

Think you know what a late night is? Barcelona will redefine that for you. 

Here, the night is a slow burner – dinner wraps up close to what some might call bedtime, and that’s just the prelude. Clubs and bars don’t really get going until well past midnight, and the streets buzz with energy until the sun threatens to rise. 

It’s a rhythm that takes some getting used to, but once you’re in sync, it’s a whole new world. So take a siesta, have a late dinner, and then hit the town – Barcelona by night is something else.

31. Remember most shops close on Sundays

Here’s a little tip that might save you from standing in front of a closed shopfront: Sundays in Barcelona can feel like a ghost town in the shopping districts. Most shops pull down their shutters and take a day off. 

So, if you’ve got your eye on some local goods, make sure to plan your shopping spree for another day. But don’t worry – the upside is that you’ve got a perfect excuse to visit one of the city’s many markets or take a leisurely stroll along the beach instead.

32. Spend some time in the local cafés

One of my favorite things to do in Barcelona is to just sit back in one of the countless cafés with a cortado in hand and watch the world go by. These little hubs are perfect for a mid-morning coffee or a late afternoon pick-me-up. 

You’ll find them filled with a mix of locals typing away on laptops, friends catching up, or even artists sketching the scene. Each café has its own vibe, so try a few and find your favorite. It’s in these moments, with the aroma of freshly ground coffee in the air, that you’ll feel the real pulse of the city.

33. Explore each neighborhood’s unique personality

Barcelona is like a patchwork quilt – every district, or ‘barrio,’ has its own unique fabric. The Gothic Quarter’s medieval labyrinth feels like stepping back in time – think narrow alleys and hidden squares.

Over in Gràcia, you’ll find a bohemian spirit with artisan shops and an easygoing pace. Then there’s El Raval, raw and edgy, with street art and an eclectic mix of food spots. 

Each neighborhood has its own story, its own rhythm. Take the time to wander through a few and you’ll discover the many faces of Barcelona. 

It’s an adventure in itself to see how the city changes from one street to the next.

34. Rent a bike 

Barcelona might just surprise you with how bike-friendly it is. Renting a bike here isn’t just a great way to stay active during your travels, it’s also your ticket to seeing the city from a fresh perspective.

Glide along the beachfront, breeze through the parks, and pedal down historic streets, all while taking advantage of the city’s extensive network of bike lanes. It’s the freedom to explore at your own pace – no waiting for buses or deciphering metro maps. 

Plus, you’ll get to those hidden nooks that cars can’t reach and buses don’t go!

35. Check the schedule for the Magic Fountain show

There’s something truly magical about the Font Màgica de Montjuïc, or the Magic Fountain. This grand fountain doesn’t just spout water – it puts on a show with lights, music, and colors that dance through the night sky. 

But, before you set out for this spectacle, do a quick check online to make sure it’s on. The showtimes can change with the seasons or it can even be turned off at times to save water, so a quick check is a good way to save yourself a trek over there for nothing. 

And if you do manage to get over there while the fountain is on, you’re in for the perfect Barcelona evening, capped off with the fountain’s waterworks playing in sync to a melody, all under the night sky.

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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• General Information

Plan your trip

Barcelona travel advice.

Find out what documentation you need to enter Spain depending on your nationality and find out if you need a visa and how to apply for one:

US & UK Citizens

American and British citizens  traveling to Spain  for less than 90 days do not need a visa.  However, they will need a  valid passport  for at least six months beyond their stay. Immigration officers may also ask citizens to show enough funds for their stay and a return airline ticket.

Australian Citizens

Australian citizens  visiting Spain or any other European country in the Schengen Convention (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, France, Sweden)  for less than 90 days do not require a visa . Passports need to have at least six-month validity from the planned date of return.

EU, EEA and Swiss Citizens

As citizens of the European Union and European Economic Area, you will  not need a visa  to enter the country.

EU member countries

Germany, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Croatia, Denmark, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, Romania, and Sweden.

EEA countries

Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. 

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Spain

The following countries  do not require a visa for visits lasting less than 90 days , but require a valid passport to enter Spain.

Andorra, Antigua and Bermuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Bolivia, Bosnia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Korea, Macao, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, Nicaragua, New Zealand, Panama, Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapour, Taiwan, Uruguay and Venezuela.

Other countries

For citizens of  countries not previously mentioned , we recommend visiting your country's  Spanish Embassy  or checking the  Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation’s  website for more information: 

You may also be interested in

This article answers the most frequently asked questions about Barcelona. Discover the most important facts to plan your trip to Barcelona!  

Castilian and Catalan are the two official languages in the region of Catalonia and its capital, Barcelona.

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Spain Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Spain.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Consider hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers. It is recommended for travelers who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water. It is recommended for travelers who plan on eating street food.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Spain. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Spain.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Spain is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Spain, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Although Spain is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Spain include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately.  Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
• Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Spain’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Make sure there are seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Spain, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Spain for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Update April 12, 2024

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Spain Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, spain - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Spain due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel in Spain.

If you decide to travel to Spain:

• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Spain.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Flights to Barcelona (BCN)

Barcelona airport - airport code: bcn, non-stop flights to barcelona (bcn).

Barcelona Airport is the second largest airport in Spain. It is an international airport. In total there are 211 airports around the world that have direct flights to Barcelona, spread around 195 cities in 63 countries. Currently, there are 29 domestic flights to Barcelona.

Barcelona is mainly known for sightseeing & culture and activities.

On this page

This month, there are 25,785 flights arriving at Barcelona Airport, which are 860 flights per day or 36 flights per hour. On an average day, there is at least 1 flight arriving every 2 minutes.

The most frequently departed flights to Barcelona are routes from Palma de Mallorca (PMI) in Spain and Rome (Fiumicino) (FCO) in Italy. These two routes together are operated 2069 times this month, and make up for 8% of all monthly arrivals at Barcelona Airport.

The longest flight to Barcelona BCN is departing from Santiago de Chile (SCL). This non-stop flight takes around 14 hours and 55 minutes and covers a distance of 4,303 miles (6,925 km).

List of all direct flights to Barcelona

Below you can find a list of all cities and countries that have direct flights to Barcelona, ordered by popularity.

Top 200 flights with a stopover

This list contains the 200 most popular airports from which flights depart that require just one stopover to get to Barcelona.

Airlines flying to Barcelona

Currently, there are 81 airlines that fly to Barcelona. Most flights to Barcelona are operated by Vueling, as they connect 93 airports to BCN. Below you can find a list of airlines that operate most BCN flights:

Business class flights to Barcelona

There are 42 airports that have flights to Barcelona in Business Class. All airports that offer business class flights to BCN are listed below:

First class flights to Barcelona

If you are looking for a luxurious flight, there's a total of 3 airports to choose from that have flights to BCN in First Class.

Intercontinental flights to Barcelona

Barcelona is well connected to lots of airports around the world.

These are all non-stop intercontinental flights to Barcelona Airport (BCN), as of May 2024:

Non-stop flights from the US to Barcelona

Non-stop flights from Canada to Barcelona

Non-stop flights from South America to Barcelona

Non-stop flights from Central America to Barcelona

Non-stop flights from the Caribbean to Barcelona

Non-stop flights from africa to barcelona.

Non-stop flights from the Middle-East / Western Asia to Barcelona

Non-stop flights from India / South Asia to Barcelona

Currently there are no direct services from India or Southern Asia to Barcelona, you will need to change planes along the way.

Non-stop flights from China to Barcelona

Non-stop flights from Japan to Barcelona

Currently there are no direct services from Japan to Barcelona, you will need to change planes along the way.

Non-stop flights from East Asia to Barcelona

Non-stop flights from South-East Asia to Barcelona

Non-stop flights from Central Asia to Barcelona

Non-stop flights from Australia / New Zealand / Oceania / the Pacific to Barcelona

Currently there are no direct services from Oceania to Barcelona, you will need to change planes along the way.

International flights to Barcelona

Flights from albania to barcelona.

Tirana is the only city in Albania with direct flights to Barcelona. From Tirana , direct flights are offered by Wizz Air Malta. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Algeria to Barcelona

There are 2 airports in Algeria that have non-stop flights to Barcelona.

From Algiers , you can fly non-stop with Air Algerie or Vueling. From Oran , the only airline with direct flights is Vueling. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Argentina to Barcelona

In Argentina, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Buenos Aires. From Buenos Aires , direct flights are offered by Iberia (Oneworld).

Flights from Armenia to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Armenia that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Yerevan. From Yerevan , direct flights are offered by Pacific Airways. This is a seasonal route that starts in June and ends in September.

Flights from Austria to Barcelona

In Austria, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Vienna. From Vienna , there are 4 airlines that have direct services to Barcelona, which are Austrian (Star Alliance), Ryanair, Vueling and Wizz Air Malta.

Flights from Azerbaijan to Barcelona

Baku is the only city in Azerbaijan with direct flights to Barcelona. From Baku , direct flights are offered by Azerbaijan. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Belgium to Barcelona

If you are looking for a direct flight from Belgium to Barcelona, there are 2 airports to choose from.

From Brussels , direct flights are offered by Brussels Airlines (Star Alliance), Ryanair and Vueling. From Brussels Charleroi , the only airline with direct flights is Ryanair.

Flights from Brazil to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Brazil that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is São Paulo. From São Paulo , direct flights are offered by LATAM.

Flights from Bulgaria to Barcelona

Sofia is the only city in Bulgaria with direct flights to Barcelona. From Sofia , direct flights are offered by Bulgaria Air, Ryanair and Wizz Air. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Canada to Barcelona

In Canada, there are 3 airports that have direct flights to Barcelona.

From Calgary , direct flights are offered by WestJet. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in November. From Montreal and Toronto , you can fly with Air Canada (Star Alliance) and Air Transat.

Flights from Cape Verde to Barcelona

In Cape Verde, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Sal, Cape Verde. From Sal, Cape Verde , direct flights are offered by Vueling. This is a seasonal route that starts in June and ends in September.

Flights from Chile to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Chile that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Santiago de Chile. From Santiago de Chile , direct flights are offered by Iberia (Oneworld).

Flights from China to Barcelona

If you are looking for a direct flight from China to Barcelona, there are 2 airports to choose from.

From Beijing , direct flights are offered by Air China (Star Alliance). From Shenzhen , the only airline with direct flights is Shenzhen Airlines (Star Alliance).

Flights from Colombia to Barcelona

In Colombia, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Bogotá. From Bogotá , direct flights are offered by Avianca (Star Alliance).

Flights from Croatia to Barcelona

There are 4 airports in Croatia that have non-stop flights to Barcelona.

From Dubrovnik and Split , you can fly with Vueling. From Zadar , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in September. From Zagreb , the only airline with direct flights is Croatia Airlines (Star Alliance). This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Cyprus to Barcelona

Larnaca is the only city in Cyprus with direct flights to Barcelona. From Larnaca , direct flights are offered by Cyprus Airways. This is a seasonal route that starts in July and ends in September.

Flights from Czechia to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Czechia that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Prague. From Prague , direct flights are offered by Eurowings, Ryanair and Vueling.

Flights from Denmark to Barcelona

In Denmark, there are 3 airports that have direct flights to Barcelona.

From Aalborg , direct flights are offered by Norwegian. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Billund , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Copenhagen , direct flights are offered by Norwegian, SAS (Star Alliance) and Vueling.

Flights from Dominican Republic to Barcelona

Punta Cana is the only city in Dominican Republic with direct flights to Barcelona. From Punta Cana , direct flights are offered by Evelop Airlines. This is a seasonal route that starts in June and ends in September.

Flights from Egypt to Barcelona

There are 2 airports in Egypt that have non-stop flights to Barcelona.

From Cairo , you can fly non-stop with Egyptair (Star Alliance) or Vueling. From Luxor , the only airline with direct flights is Egyptair (Star Alliance).

Flights from Estonia to Barcelona

In Estonia, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Tallinn. From Tallinn , direct flights are offered by Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Faroe Islands to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Faroe Islands that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Sørvágur. From Sørvágur , direct flights are offered by Atlantic Airways. This is a seasonal route that starts in June and ends in August.

Flights from Finland to Barcelona

In Finland, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Helsinki. From Helsinki , you can fly non-stop with Finnair (Oneworld) or Norwegian.

Flights from France to Barcelona

France is well-connected to Barcelona (BCN) with 13 airports around the country that have direct flights to the airport.

From Bastia (Corsica) , direct flights are offered by Vueling. This route is recently announced though, and not operational yet. It will start in August 2024. From Bordeaux , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. From Brest and Lille , you can fly with Volotea. From Lyon , you can fly non-stop with easyJet or Vueling. From Marseille and Nantes , all direct flights to Barcelona are operated by Volotea and Vueling. From Nice , you can fly non-stop with easyJet or Vueling. From Paris , direct flights are offered by Air France (SkyTeam), easyJet and Vueling. From Paris (Beauvais) , the only airline with direct flights is Ryanair. From Paris (Orly) , you can fly non-stop with Transavia or Vueling. From Poitiers , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Strasbourg , direct flights are offered by Volotea.

Flights from Gambia to Barcelona

Banjul is the only city in Gambia with direct flights to Barcelona. From Banjul , direct flights are offered by Vueling.

Flights from Georgia to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Georgia that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Kutaisi. From Kutaisi , direct flights are offered by Wizz Air. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Germany to Barcelona

You can fly non-stop to Barcelona from lots of airports in Germany, as there is a total of 10 airports that have direct services to Barcelona.

From Berlin , direct flights are offered by easyJet, Ryanair and Vueling. From Cologne-Bonn , you can fly non-stop with Eurowings or Ryanair. From Düsseldorf , you can fly non-stop with Eurowings or Vueling. From Frankfurt , the only airline with direct flights is Lufthansa (Star Alliance). From Frankfurt Hahn , direct flights are offered by Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Hamburg , you can fly non-stop with Eurowings or Vueling. From Hanover , direct flights are offered by Vueling. From Munich , you can fly non-stop with Lufthansa (Star Alliance) or Vueling. From Nuremberg , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Vueling. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Stuttgart , you can fly non-stop with Eurowings or Vueling.

Flights from Greece to Barcelona

In Greece there are several airports with flights to Barcelona (6 in total).

From Athens , you can fly non-stop with Aegean (Star Alliance) or Vueling. From Corfu (Kerkyra) , the only airline with direct flights is Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Heraklion (Crete) , Mykonos and Santorini , all direct flights to Barcelona are operated by Vueling. From Thessaloniki , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Aegean (Star Alliance).

Flights from Hong Kong to Barcelona

Hong Kong is the only city in Hong Kong with direct flights to Barcelona. From Hong Kong , direct flights are offered by Cathay Pacific (Oneworld). This is a seasonal route that starts in June and ends in October.

Flights from Hungary to Barcelona

In Hungary, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Budapest. From Budapest , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Wizz Air.

Flights from Iceland to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Iceland that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Reykjavik (Keflavik). From Reykjavik (Keflavik) , direct flights are offered by Icelandair, Play and Vueling.

Flights from Ireland to Barcelona

If you are looking for a direct flight from Ireland to Barcelona, there are 2 airports to choose from.

From Cork , direct flights are offered by Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Dublin , direct flights are offered by Aer Lingus, Ryanair and Vueling.

Flights from Israel to Barcelona

In Israel, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Tel Aviv. From Tel Aviv , there are 5 airlines that have direct services to Barcelona, which are Arkia, Bluebird Airways, EL AL, Israir and Vueling.

Flights from Italy to Barcelona

Italy is well-connected to Barcelona (BCN) with 22 airports around the country that have direct flights to the airport.

From Alghero (Sardinia) , direct flights are offered by Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Bari , the only airline with direct flights is Vueling. From Bologna , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. From Cagliari (Sardinia) , direct flights are offered by Neos, Volotea and Vueling. From Catania , Comiso , Florence and Genoa , all direct flights to Barcelona are operated by Vueling. From Milan (Bergamo) , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Ryanair. From Milan (Linate) , the only airline with direct flights is Vueling. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Milan (Malpensa) , there are 5 airlines that have direct services to Barcelona, which are easyJet, Ryanair, Singapore Airlines (Star Alliance), Vueling and Wizz Air Malta. From Naples , direct flights are offered by easyJet, Ryanair and Vueling. From Olbia (Sardinia) , you can fly non-stop with Volotea or Vueling. From Palermo , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. From Perugia , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Pisa , the only airline with direct flights is easyJet. This is a seasonal route that starts in June and ends in August. From Reggio Calabria , direct flights are offered by Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Rome (Fiumicino) , there are 4 airlines that have direct services to Barcelona, which are ITA Airways (SkyTeam), Ryanair, Vueling and Wizz Air Malta. From Trieste , direct flights are offered by Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Turin and Venice Marco Polo , you can fly with Ryanair and Vueling. From Verona , the only airline with direct flights is Volotea.

Flights from Jordan to Barcelona

Amman is the only city in Jordan with direct flights to Barcelona. From Amman , you can fly non-stop with Royal Jordanian (Oneworld) or Vueling.

Flights from Kuwait to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Kuwait that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Kuwait City. From Kuwait City , direct flights are offered by Kuwait Airways.

Flights from Latvia to Barcelona

Riga is the only city in Latvia with direct flights to Barcelona. From Riga , you can fly non-stop with Air Baltic or Ryanair.

Flights from Lebanon to Barcelona

In Lebanon, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Beirut. From Beirut , direct flights are offered by Vueling. This route is not operational yet but will start in June.

Flights from Lithuania to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Lithuania that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Vilnius. From Vilnius , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Wizz Air. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Luxembourg to Barcelona

In Luxembourg, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Luxembourg City. From Luxembourg City , you can fly non-stop with Luxair or Ryanair.

Flights from Malta to Barcelona

Malta is the only city in Malta with direct flights to Barcelona. From Malta , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling.

Flights from Mexico to Barcelona

In Mexico, there are 2 airports that have direct flights to Barcelona.

From Cancún , direct flights are offered by Evelop Airlines. This is a seasonal route that starts in June and ends in September. From Mexico City , the only airline with direct flights is Emirates.

Flights from Moldova to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Moldova that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Chișinău. From Chișinău , direct flights are offered by Fly One. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Morocco to Barcelona

In Morocco there are several airports with flights to Barcelona (9 in total).

From Casablanca , you can fly non-stop with Air Arabia Maroc or Royal Air Maroc (Oneworld). From Fes , you can fly non-stop with Air Arabia Maroc or Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Marrakech , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Nador , you can fly non-stop with Air Arabia Maroc or Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Ouarzazate , direct flights are offered by Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Oujda and Rabat , you can fly with Air Arabia Maroc and Ryanair. From Tangier , there are 4 airlines that have direct services to Barcelona, which are Air Arabia Maroc, Royal Air Maroc (Oneworld), Ryanair and Vueling. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Tétouan , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Air Arabia Maroc. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Netherlands to Barcelona

If you are looking for a direct flight from Netherlands to Barcelona, there are 3 airports to choose from.

From Amsterdam , direct flights are offered by KLM (SkyTeam), Transavia and Vueling. From Eindhoven and Rotterdam , you can fly with Transavia.

Flights from Norway to Barcelona

There are 4 airports in Norway that have non-stop flights to Barcelona.

From Bergen , direct flights are offered by Norwegian. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Oslo , there are 4 airlines that have direct services to Barcelona, which are Norwegian, Norwegian, SAS (Star Alliance) and Vueling. From Oslo (Torp) and Stavanger , you can fly with Norwegian.

Flights from Poland to Barcelona

In Poland there are several airports with flights to Barcelona (6 in total).

From Gdańsk , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Wizz Air. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Katowice , the only airline with direct flights is Wizz Air. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Krakow , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Wizz Air. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Warsaw , you can fly non-stop with LOT (Star Alliance) or Wizz Air. From Warsaw , direct flights are offered by Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Wrocław , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Wizz Air. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October.

Flights from Portugal to Barcelona

In Portugal, there are 5 airports that have direct flights to Barcelona.

From Faro , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Funchal (Madeira) , the only airline with direct flights is Iberia (Oneworld). This is a seasonal route that starts in July and ends in September. From Lisbon , there are 4 airlines that have direct services to Barcelona, which are easyJet, Ryanair, TAP Portugal (Star Alliance) and Vueling. From Ponta Delgada , the only airline with direct flights is Azores Airlines. From Porto , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling.

Flights from Qatar to Barcelona

Doha is the only city in Qatar with direct flights to Barcelona. From Doha , direct flights are offered by Qatar Airways (Oneworld).

Flights from Romania to Barcelona

There are 5 airports in Romania that have non-stop flights to Barcelona.

From Bacău , direct flights are offered by Dan Air. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Bucharest , you can fly non-stop with HiSky or Wizz Air Malta. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Cluj-Napoca , Iasi and Timișoara , all direct flights to Barcelona are operated by Wizz Air Malta.

Flights from Saudi Arabia to Barcelona

If you are looking for a direct flight from Saudi Arabia to Barcelona, there are 2 airports to choose from.

From Jeddah and Riyadh , you can fly with Saudi Arabian (SkyTeam).

Flights from Senegal to Barcelona

In Senegal, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Dakar. From Dakar , direct flights are offered by Air Senegal. This route is not operational yet but will start in June.

Flights from Serbia to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Serbia that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Belgrade. From Belgrade , you can fly non-stop with Air Serbia or Wizz Air.

Flights from Singapore to Barcelona

In Singapore, the only airport that has a direct connection to Barcelona is Singapore. From Singapore , direct flights are offered by Singapore Airlines (Star Alliance). This route is not operational yet but will start in June.

Flights from South Korea to Barcelona

Seoul is the only city in South Korea with direct flights to Barcelona. From Seoul , you can fly non-stop with Asiana Airlines (Star Alliance) or Korean Air (SkyTeam).

Flights from Sweden to Barcelona

In Sweden, there are 2 airports that have direct flights to Barcelona.

From Gothenburg , you can fly non-stop with Norwegian or Vueling. From Stockholm (Arlanda) , there are 4 airlines that have direct services to Barcelona, which are Norwegian, Ryanair, SAS (Star Alliance) and Vueling.

Flights from Switzerland to Barcelona

If you are looking for a direct flight from Switzerland to Barcelona, there are 3 airports to choose from.

From Basel Mulhouse Freiburg and Geneva , you can fly with easyJet and Vueling. From Zürich , you can fly non-stop with Swiss (Star Alliance) or Vueling.

Flights from Tunisia to Barcelona

There is 1 airport in Tunisia that has a direct connection to Barcelona, which is Tunis. From Tunis , direct flights are offered by Nouvelair, Tunisair and Vueling.

Flights from Turkey to Barcelona

There are 3 airports in Turkey that have non-stop flights to Barcelona.

From Istanbul , direct flights are offered by Turkish Airlines (Star Alliance). From Istanbul (Sabiha) , the only airline with direct flights is Pegasus. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Izmir , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with SunExpress.

Flights from United Arab Emirates to Barcelona

In United Arab Emirates, there are 2 airports that have direct flights to Barcelona.

From Abu Dhabi , direct flights are offered by Etihad Airways. From Dubai , the only airline with direct flights is Emirates.

Flights from United Kingdom to Barcelona

United Kingdom is well-connected to Barcelona (BCN) with 16 airports around the country that have direct flights to the airport.

From Belfast International , direct flights are offered by easyJet. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Birmingham , there are 4 airlines that have direct services to Barcelona, which are easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair and Vueling. From Bristol , you can fly non-stop with easyJet or Ryanair. From Edinburgh , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. From Glasgow , direct flights are offered by easyJet. From Glasgow (Prestwick) , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Ryanair. This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Leeds / Bradford , direct flights are offered by Jet2. From Liverpool , you can fly non-stop with easyJet or Ryanair. From London City , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with British Airways (Oneworld). From London Gatwick , you can fly non-stop with easyJet or Vueling. From London Heathrow , you can fly non-stop with British Airways (Oneworld) or Vueling. From London Luton , you can fly non-stop with easyJet or Ryanair. From London Stansted , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Ryanair UK. From Manchester , there are 5 airlines that have direct services to Barcelona, which are easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, Ryanair UK and Vueling. From Newcastle and Nottingham , you can fly with Ryanair.

Flights from United States to Barcelona

You can fly non-stop to Barcelona from lots of airports in United States, as there is a total of 11 airports that have direct services to Barcelona.

From Atlanta , direct flights are offered by Delta (SkyTeam). From Boston , the only airline with direct flights is Iberia (Oneworld). From Chicago , you can fly non-stop with American Airlines (Oneworld) or United Airlines (Star Alliance). This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Dallas-Fort Worth , the only airline with direct flights is American Airlines (Oneworld). This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in August. From Los Angeles , direct flights are offered by Iberia (Oneworld). From Miami , you can fly non-stop with American Airlines (Oneworld) or Iberia (Oneworld). From New York , direct flights are offered by United Airlines (Star Alliance). From New York City , direct flights are offered by American Airlines (Oneworld), Delta (SkyTeam) and Iberia (Oneworld). From Philadelphia , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with American Airlines (Oneworld). From San Francisco , you can fly non-stop with Iberia (Oneworld) or United Airlines (Star Alliance). This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Washington , direct flights are offered by United Airlines (Star Alliance).

Flights from Uzbekistan to Barcelona

There are 2 airports in Uzbekistan that have non-stop flights to Barcelona.

From Tashkent and Urgench , you can fly with Qanot Sharq.

Domestic flights to Barcelona

Flights from spain to barcelona.

You can fly domestically to Barcelona from a lot of airports within Spain, as there is a total of 29 airports that have domestic services.

From A Coruña , direct flights are offered by Vueling. From Alicante , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. From Almería , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Vueling. From Asturias , you can fly non-stop with Volotea or Vueling. From Badajoz , direct flights are offered by Iberia (Oneworld). This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in October. From Bilbao , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Vueling. From Fuerteventura , direct flights are offered by Iberia (Oneworld), Ryanair and Vueling. From Gran Canaria (Las Palmas) , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. From Granada , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Vueling. From Ibiza , direct flights are offered by Iberia (Oneworld), Ryanair and Vueling. From Jerez de la Frontera and Lanzarote (Arrecife) , you can fly with Ryanair and Vueling. From León , direct flights are offered by Iberia (Oneworld). From Madrid , direct flights are offered by Air Europa (SkyTeam), Iberia (Oneworld) and Vueling. From Málaga , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. From Melilla , the only airline with direct flights is Iberia (Oneworld). From Menorca (Mahon) , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. From Murcia , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Volotea. From Palma de Mallorca , direct flights are offered by Air Europa (SkyTeam), Ryanair and Vueling. From San Sebastián , Santa Cruz de La Palma and Santander , all direct flights to Barcelona are operated by Vueling. From Santiago de Compostela and Seville , you can fly with Iberia (Oneworld), Ryanair and Vueling. From Tenerife (Los Rodeos) , you can fly non-stop with Ryanair or Vueling. From Tenerife (Reina Sofía) , the only airline with direct flights is Ryanair. From Valencia , you can fly non-stop to Barcelona with Iberia (Oneworld). This is a seasonal route that starts in May and ends in July. From Valladolid and Vigo , all direct flights to Barcelona are operated by Ryanair and Vueling.

Alternative airports near Barcelona

Flying to an alternative airport near Barcelona could give you other options to reach your destination. For example, the possibility to fly with a different airline or alliance, or finding a cheaper airfare. For this reason, alternative airports near to Barcelona (BCN) are listed below. The closest alternative airports are Barcelona Reus (Salou) (REU) and Barcelona (Girona) (GRO).

Frequently asked questions - FAQ

How many airports are there in barcelona.

There are 2 airports in Barcelona: Barcelona Airport (BCN) and Reus Airport (REU).

What is the best airport to fly into Barcelona?

The most convenient airport to fly into Barcelona is Barcelona Airport (BCN).

How many airlines fly to Barcelona?

There are 81 airlines flying to Barcelona from 211 airports around the world, as of May 2024.

Which airlines fly to Barcelona?

Vueling, Ryanair and easyJet operate most flights to Barcelona. To get a full overview of all operating airlines, please use the airline filter.

Which alliances are flying to Barcelona?

Oneworld, Star Alliance and SkyTeam are all flying to Barcelona.

How many nonstop flights are there to Barcelona?

There are roughly 25,785 flights arriving at Barcelona every month (or 6,020 flights each week), from a total of 211 airports worldwide.

What is the official name of Barcelona Airport?

The official name of Barcelona Airport is Barcelona Airport.

What is the airport code of Barcelona Airport?

The airport code of Barcelona Airport is BCN .

What are the most popular flights to Barcelona?

Palma de Mallorca, Rome (Fiumicino) and Madrid are the 3 most popular routes to Barcelona. For a complete overview of all flight routes to Barcelona, please use our flight map.

How long is the flight to Barcelona?

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There are many modes of transportation in Barcelona and I've tried them all. Here's how visitors can best navigate the city.

• I live in Barcelona and find it to be well-serviced by public transport and an international airport.
• With an extensive network of trains, Metro, buses, and taxis, Barcelona is easy to navigate.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

I live in Barcelona, and like many European cities, consider it to be extremely well-serviced by public transport, with an extensive, interconnected train, Metro, and bus system.

I use the Metro system often; trains are clean and run frequently, and I can get pretty much anywhere I need to go in the city in under 15 minutes.

If you're planning to only stay in Barcelona while visiting the city, there's really no need for a rental car. Barcelona is relatively small and easy to navigate on foot or by public transit, plus parking is difficult and expensive. However, if you plan to see other areas of Catalonia, such as the Costa Brava, you should consider one ss much of the coast and countryside isn't well-connected by train.

Here are the best ways to get to and around Barcelona.

Many travelers fly into Barcelona's international airport, El Prat. Fotokon/Shutterstock

Flying into barcelona.

El Prat Airport

There is one international airport in Barcelona, El Prat (BCN), located about eight miles southwest of the city center. It has two terminals: Terminal 1 is the arrival point for international flights, as well as the Spanish carrier Vueling; Terminal 2 serves mainly low-cost European carriers, such as Ryanair and easyJet.

If you're flying from the US, even if you've passed through customs in another European airport, you'll likely be landing in Terminal 1.

Getting to the Barcelona city center

There are a variety of transportation options from Barcelona's airport to the city center. I've tried them all, and outlined the pros and cons below, along with tips on how to use them. No matter which you choose, you can get from the airport to the center in about a half hour.

Related stories

The easiest way to get to the city is by taxi (there is no Uber or Lyft in Barcelona), but it's also the most expensive, costing around €30, depending on traffic, plus an added airport surcharge. Avoid anyone who approaches you in the airport offering a ride; there is a dedicated taxi line and officials to direct you to an authorized taxi. You can pay the driver using a card or cash. I usually tip one or two euro, but it's not necessary.

Located just outside both terminals is the bright blue Aerobus , an express bus stopping at three major intersections: Plaça Espanya, Carrer Sepúlveda, and Plaça Catalunya, the most centrally located stop. Buses run 24/7 and depart every five to 20 minutes, depending on the time of day. One way is €5.90 and round-trip is €10.20; tickets can be purchased on the website or via the Aerobus app (both generate a QR code), at the automated kiosk next to the buses with cards or cash, or on the bus with cash. This is the easiest public transport option, in my opinion.

A bit more complicated is the Rodalies train , line R2, which runs from Terminal 2 into the city, stopping at major train stations including Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, and Estació de França, the latter two putting you in the city center. A free shuttle bus runs from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2. The train leaves the airport approximately every half-hour, from 5:42 a.m. until 12:38 a.m. The cost is €4.60 one-way and tickets can be purchased at automated kiosks with cards or cash.

Although there is a stop at the airport, I don't recommend taking the Metro from here because I find it to be confusing. It requires multiple connections to get into the center, involves lots of stairs and tunnels between the platforms, and the cost is about the same as the train.

You can navigate Barcelona by bus, metro, tram, or car. Mounir Taha/Shutterstock

Getting around the city.

Barcelona is relatively compact, with most major attractions within easy walking distance — unless you're heading uphill to sites like Parc Güell and Montjuïc. The city's public transport system, TMB , includes the underground Metro, buses, and trams; you can purchase single tickets, €2.40, or a 10-ticket pass (T-Casual), €11.35, at any automated kiosk in the stations.

On buses, you can pay with cash or download and pay with the TMB app (not available for use on other forms of transport). 

View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Barcelona .

• Main content

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Cheap flight deals from New York to Barcelona (NYC-BCN)

Flights from new york to barcelona - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends into flights from new york to barcelona to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest new york to barcelona-el prat airport flight route, our data shows that the cheapest route for a one-way flight from new york to barcelona-el prat airport cost $226 and was between new york john f kennedy intl airport and barcelona-el prat airport. on average, the best prices are found if you fly this route. the average price for a return flight for this route is $387., what’s the cheapest day of the week to fly from new york to barcelona, for new york to barcelona, wednesday is the cheapest day to fly on average and friday is the most expensive. flying from barcelona back to new york, the best deals are generally found on wednesday, with sunday being the most expensive., what is the cheapest month to fly from new york to barcelona-el prat airport, the cheapest month for flights from new york to barcelona-el prat airport is january, where tickets cost $432 on average. on the other hand, the most expensive months are june and july, where the average cost of tickets is $1,001 and $955 respectively., how far in advance should i book a flight from new york to barcelona-el prat airport, to get a below average price on the flight from new york to barcelona-el prat airport, you should book around 2 weeks before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 71 days before departure., which airlines provide the cheapest flights from new york to barcelona, in the last 72 hours, the cheapest one-way ticket from new york to barcelona found on kayak was with vueling for $234. tap air portugal proposed a round-trip connection from $349 and vueling from $350., which airlines fly most frequently between new york and barcelona, the airlines most regularly connecting new york to barcelona are american airlines (3 flights per day), delta (2 flights per day), and iberia (one flight per day)., which airlines fly non-stop between new york and barcelona-el prat airport, there are 4 airlines that fly nonstop from new york to barcelona-el prat airport. they are: american airlines, delta, iberia and united airlines. the cheapest price of all airlines flying this route was found with american airlines at $493 for a one-way flight. on average, the best prices for this route can be found at american airlines., how many flights are there between new york and barcelona-el prat airport per day, each day, there are 7 nonstop flights that take off from new york and land in barcelona-el prat airport, with an average flight time of 7h 46m. the most common departure time is 5:00 pm and most flights take off in the afternoon. each week, there are 49 flights and there are the same amount of flights each day 7., which cabin class options are there for flights between new york and barcelona-el prat airport, there are 3 cabin class options for the route. these are business, economy and prem economy. perform a search on kayak to find the latest prices and availability for all cabin fares, which differ across airlines., how long does a flight from new york to barcelona take, the duration of a nonstop flight to barcelona from new york is typically 7h 25m. the journey crosses a distance of 3,825 miles., what’s the earliest departure time from new york to barcelona, early birds can take the earliest flight from new york at 4:00 pm and will be landing in barcelona-el prat airport at 6:05 am., what’s the latest departure time from new york to barcelona, if you prefer to fly at night, the latest flight from new york to barcelona-el prat airport jets off at 11:40 pm and lands at 1:30 pm., good to know, when to book flights from new york to barcelona, faqs for booking new york to barcelona-el prat flights, are there hotels at or near barcelona-el prat airport (bcn).

Yes. There is a hotel in Barcelona- El Prat Airport. Enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating stay at Sleep and Fly Airport after your flight from New York to Barcelona. Situated in the heart of the airport’s Terminal 1, the hotel provides typical home comforts such as elegant rooms with comfy beds and large windows with ample natural light. You may also reserve a room at the modern Hotel Barcelona Aeropuerto close to both Terminals 1 and 2 with complimentary airport shuttles.

Does John F. Kenned International Airport offer accessible services?

JFK Airport is committed to ensuring the comfort of passengers with special needs with its accessibility program. Travelers with impaired mobility have parking spaces set aside near terminal entrances. In addition to wheelchair-accessible restrooms, TTD phones are found in each terminal. Arrange with your airline for wheelchairs or any special accommodations before your flight from New York to Barcelona.

Does BCN have a business center?

If you are traveling from New York to Barcelona for a business getaway, then the state-of-the-art business center in Terminal 1 of BCN Airport will meet your business needs. The facility is equipped with amenities such as fully furnished boardrooms and offices with high-quality technology. Print, copy, and bind services can be found at the multi-use centers housed in both Terminals 1 and 2.

Where can I relax at Newark Liberty International Airport?

Start an early vacation at either of the 13 lounges at EWR Airport. The lounges at Newark Airport are accessible to passengers regardless of the airline they are flying with. The lounges such as Admiral’s Club in Terminal A and SAS Lounge in Terminal B should admit you with only paying a fee at the door.

How do I get to the airport in New York by public transport?

If you’re departing from JFK, take the A, E, or J subway to Jamaica Station and transfer to the AirTrain. If you’re departing from Newark Airport and coming from Manhattan, take the Amtrak or NJ Transit from Penn Station to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station.

How can I prepare myself for a long-haul flight from New York?

Long-haul flights can get notoriously cramped and uncomfortable; one of the best ways to prepare is with a massage. Improve your circulation and relax your muscles with a chair massage, reflexology, or a whole-body massage at the spa outlets at JFK. Treat yourself to an oxygen aromatherapy session to lift your mood and keep hydrated with plenty of water.

What kinds of shops can I find at Newark airport?

There are plenty of options to indulge in a little retail therapy at Newark if you have some downtime before your flight from New York to Barcelona. From luxury apparel and electronics to souvenirs, toys, and games for kids, there’s something for everyone. International travelers can browse through extensive collections at the duty-free shops, which include perfume, cosmetics, and jewelry.

How can I get from Barcelona Airport to the center?

Barcelona Airport is located 14 miles southwest of the city center. Because of its close proximity, there are many public transport options available, depending on where you’re staying. The airport train runs every 30 minutes to Estació Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, and El Clot, where passengers can connect to other parts of the city by Metro. The Aerobus express service runs from both terminals to Plaça de Catalunya, Sepúlveda–Urgell, and Plaça d'España every ten minutes.

What is the cheapest flight from New York to Barcelona-El Prat Airport?

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight from New York to Barcelona-El Prat Airport was $183 for a one-way ticket and $349 for a round-trip.

Do I need a passport to fly between New York and Barcelona?

A passport is required to fly from New York to Barcelona.

Which airports will I be using when flying from New York to Barcelona?

There are 3 airports in New York (Newark, New York John F Kennedy Intl, and New York LaGuardia.) and only 1 airport in Barcelona (Barcelona-El Prat). The cheapest flights are generally found on the New York John F Kennedy Airport to Barcelona-El Prat flight route.

Which airlines offer Wi-Fi service onboard planes from New York to Barcelona?

All the following airlines offer inflight Wi-Fi service on the New York to Barcelona flight route: Iberia, Vueling, Finnair, Delta, British Airways, American Airlines, Air France, and KLM.

Which aircraft models fly most regularly from New York to Barcelona?

The Boeing 777-200/200ER is the aircraft model that flies most regularly on the New York to Barcelona flight route.

Which airline alliances offer flights from New York to Barcelona?

oneworld, SkyTeam, and Star Alliance are the airline alliances operating flights between New York and Barcelona, with SkyTeam being the most commonly used for this route.

On which days can I fly direct from New York to Barcelona?

There are nonstop flights from New York to Barcelona on a daily basis.

Which is the best airline for flights from New York to Barcelona, Delta or United Airlines?

The two airlines most popular with KAYAK users for flights from New York to Barcelona are Delta and United Airlines. With an average price for the route of $923 and an overall rating of 8.0, Delta is the most popular choice. United Airlines is also a great choice for the route, with an average price of $933 and an overall rating of 7.4.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from New York to Barcelona?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from New York to Barcelona.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from New York to Barcelona?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Barcelona from New York is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from New York to Barcelona?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Barcelona with an airline and back to New York with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from New York to Barcelona?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Barcelona from New York up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from New York to Barcelona

• Looking for a cheap flight? 25% of our users found flights on this route for $677 or less one-way and $802 or less round-trip.
• Single-stop flights from New York to Barcelona are eco-friendlier than non-stop flights. Approximately 3,148 kg of carbon is emitted per person on this route. If you want to fly with eco-friendly airlines, then KLM and PLAY are more sustainable. The former produces 40% less carbon whereas the latter produces 39% less carbon.
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is a traveler’s paradise if you are accompanied by your kids. Allow your kids to run wild in Terminal 5 across from Gate 17 at JetBlue’s pirate-themed play area before your flight from New York to Barcelona. Furthermore, children of all ages are welcome at the cockpit and cabin simulation in Gate 26.
• The majority of passengers flying to Barcelona from New York favor John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) over Newark Liberty International Airport and LaGuardia Airport (LGA). JFK is easier to get to as the airport is served by several transit means such as the AirTrain JFK and buses on lines B15, Q10, and Q6.
• Josep Tarradellas Barcelona El-Prat Airport (BCN) is the major international gateway to Barcelona, with two passengers Terminals 1 and 2. The airport terminals are connected via shuttle services. If you are flying from New York to Barcelona, you will land at Terminal 1.
• Pamper yourself before your flight with a massage at Spa Here in Terminal B, Gates B40-B59 at LGA. You may also unwind with massages and manicures at XpresSpa at Terminal B near Gate C6, Airside.
• Looking for flights from New York to Barcelona? Flights generally depart from JFK Airport or Newark Liberty International and arrive at Barcelona El-Prat in Spain. The average flight time is 8 hours and 15 minutes and there is usually a layover, depending on the airline.
• Travel like a VIP and check into one of the airline lounges before you depart from New York. Members can relax in the Delta Club or the Lufthansa Lounge at JFK for premium pre-flight amenities and services. The Wingtips Lounge in Terminal 4 has a rotating buffet and self-serve bar. Single-visit passes can be purchased at the door.
• If you’re flying out of New York, take advantage of exclusive Meet and Greet services including Airport Butler, Airport Concierge, and Air General. These services are tailor-made for all types of passengers, from business travelers to families, and help you to navigate effortlessly through the airport by assisting you with transfers, luggage, security, and access to lounges.
• Feeling hungry and pressed for time? Skip the lines and get food delivered directly to your gate with the AtYourGate App. Using your phone, order a meal, snack, or drink from participating restaurants at Newark Airport and it will be delivered to you before you depart from New York. Travelers can also browse through retail options or simply order a hot coffee and donut to be brought straight to your gate.
• Planning a European getaway? Flights from New York to Barcelona can be booked through a number of airlines. These include TAP AIR PORTUGAL, Lufthansa, British Airways, Delta, and KLM.

Prefer to fly non-stop from New York to Barcelona?

Find which airlines fly direct from New York to Barcelona-El Prat, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

New York to Barcelona-El Prat

Aeromexico, Air Europa, Air France, +10 more

Aeromexico, Air Europa, +11 more

Nonstop returns

Barcelona-El Prat to New York

Top 4 airlines serving from new york to barcelona.

WiFi connected but only let you go to the AA website, not even text messaging worked.

I think the seats on some of their planes are uncomfortable. You can be ok on a short flight of two hours but no more than that. The delays, and also the refreshments on the plane were not enough.

Seriously, not displaying departure gate until very last minute is awful. Specially when you have to take an elevator and then transport to go to the sub-terminal. That’s awful in such a busy airport as Heathrow. And I cannot choose seat on this flight because it’s run by British Airways, even entering locator code.

Awful customer service on the phone. No phone number on the website to call a real person. Website says changes are no charge but this is a lie. I had a cheaper ticket through Kayak therefore Finnair wouldn’t change it unless I would pay the entire fare again. I begged but their agents at the airport were rude and the online chat person cut off the call with no help. Super disappointed. Wont fly this airline again and will tell everyone I meet how bad it is. Crew on the flight was nice but otherwise huge disappointment.

The flight was excellent, provided that we had inclement weather. We departed earlier than scheduled and arrived early. There was a little turbulence, but nothing to be worried about.

It was less than what is expected for a business class ticket I thought that the staff actively ignored me because I either looked Indian or Hispanic to them and I guess I did not deserve their attention. The food which included a beef entree was not available so not enough food was ordered for number of seats available. I will say experience in Greenwich lounge was very good and the staff there at the airport were very nice. May be your crew needs to learn about racial equity so that everyone gets either the same aweful treatment or hopefully the best treatment which is what we expect I recommend you take a flight with Singapore airlines that I have taken and the crew remember your last names and use it to address each person, food never finishes if you are at the back of business class and crew anticipate your need even before you articulate. Same price and 100 times better service than American Airlines

pleased with overall experienced, but seats in coach are tight.

Don't often sit in 1st class. Our experience was great.

The 2 hour delay was frustrating but our crew did a great job getting us out quickly and keeping communication especially with the people who had connecting flights

It was right on time and crew were very courteous

Flight was delayed by well over an hour. Communication was terrible.

I like the team but I don't like the food you provided with money. I want free food and free water.

An average flight experience. For our transatlantic portion, they provided a main meal and two snacks. However, the food was not very tasty and the drinks far too small and infrequent for such a long flight. The regrettable part of the flight was that the toilets were extremely filthy. I feel this is unacceptable.

Both flights were delayed. I lost my connection on the way back. No voucher or anything was givenx I had business ticket and no support to make it on time. I got to the door running 5 min after they close. Food really bad. Breakfast in business was worst that I what I remember in economy. Even though I have accumulated many miles, I don’t think Inwill keep buying Iberia. I am a frequent business traveler.

Rude security cunts. However the lady that issued my boarding ticket when I was flying back from New York was lovely & helpful!!

The food is really eco only level. Breakfast was shameful. I am considering to stop flying with Iberia. Business prices are as expensive as other companies with much better service.

Why no entertainment? Also water should be free, it is basic human right.

Late boarding. Delayed departure leading to rushed connection at Madrid Barajas. Not necessarily Iberia's fault but delay loading cargo didn't help.

I can’t comment on food as it was necessary to buy it. No entertainment.

Everything was great, except the food, which could have been flavorful.

The whole flight was coughing and farting all the way. It was impossible to breathe. If people are traveling sick they should either not be allowed to fly or made wear masks

I will never fly vueling. 1h30 delayed, connexion missed with the crew closing the boarding in front of us. 40 people missed the Barcelona-Orly connexion. hours waiting for rebooking and hotel.. inadmissible

Non stop flight from Barcelona to Rome, arriving on time.

3 hr flight from Barcelona to Gran Canaria. Ŵent according to plan No issues with staff oŕ flight. Many people includiñg us could not get luggage self checķ in termìnals to work. Had to wait in check in line.

The communication about the delay could have been better before and during the flight. Also, this online form could have less bugs. It is almost impossible to type in this window.

Boarding was very poor as the flight was initially delayed. We were told the flight would be at 21:40. We were with our 10 month baby who was sleeping. I received an email from Kayak which said the flight was now due to take off at 21:04. When we checked the screens at Gatwick we were told the gate was closed. The lack of communication was extremely poor and we had to run with our baby and there were many other passengers, including elderly people, also running to the gate. When we got to the gate, the staff had no reasons for the poor communication.

I didn't get the wheelchair assistance I'd requested and my flight was on the tarmac, which was extremely painful for me. If this airline isn't for me, that's fine. The crew was fantastic and friendly ab

It was a short flight but the seat was very straight. I didn’t need any service, but wifi was not available. In resume, a normal service. Nice, the punctuality. Thanks

Bought check in baggage but couldn’t do it at the kiosk, had to line up just to get baggage tag which was a very long queue with only 1 customer service agent handling all vueling flights. Had to wait about 45mins just to get a bag tag and drop baggage.

You have couple of KG's grace on checked luggage

Not connecting flights. Missed my flight from Dublin to Liverpool because I arrived at Dublin one hour too late. For this mistake, they offered me a flight from Dublin to Manchester. Thats great and all, but I waste time and money to commute to Liverpool. Be sure to check the time of your connecting flights, because they sure don’t when they sell it to you

Excellent! Great flight attendants, good food (in business class, at least), very comfortable. Touchscreen and remote wasn’t great.

In economy and food was ok, but with limited leg space (and I was in a 2 seat configuration) it was difficult to eat with a tiny seat tray. I spilt wine on my trousers. First time on British Air (I usually fly Turkish Air) and in a 777. Heathrow was pleasant but changing terminals awkward.

We paid to have overhead carry-on baggage. When we got to the gate we were told that our carry on bags would need to be checked and go below because the flight was full. Notably we were nowhere near the last people to board and about 30 other passengers also had to check their carry-on bags. Other than that the flight was fine.

Crew were very friendly and helpful. They explained to us in detail the delay in our takeoff due to the storm that rolled in from Belfast and did their best to make up the time. Always great to fly BA!

Not sure if the crew were experiencing something unknown to me,but the service of passing water was non-existent.In addition,please take consideration when providing yogurt as alternative for breakfast as some of us, could be lactose intolerant.. thanks

Very cramped seats in economy, difficult to get comfortable with your legs and feet and back. The seat width is ok but I’m average size. Food is HORRIBLE. Crew is friendly. Delays and very tight connections made it tough for navigating. We would have missed our connecting flight if it wasn’t delayed too. The terminal transit was slow and normally every 10 minutes before 8pm, after 8 pm is every 30 minutes!!!!! No free wine or drinks!! Below average attitude.

Horrible seat allocation. Boarding was slow. Food was average and so was entertainment. The TV terminal didn't work and so had to use remote.

As expected for a BA long haul flight in economy - you get what you pay for. Good leg space, in flight entertainment and food and drink provided. Staff on the return flight (overnight) we're a bit brisk and just wanted to get everyone fed and watered before turning the lights down. We're vegetarian so ordered it separately through the booking, although when we were in flight we realised there was a normal and vegetarian option anyway, and we were given vegan. This is fine, however on the return trip we were told there were no more specially ordered meals left, so be aware in case you have specific dietary requirements.

British Airways canceled our plane and gave us a new flight scheduled to leave in only three hours, so we had to drop everything and rush to the airport. The new itinerary only left us a one hour layover in Madrid, which was too short because the plane landed late and so we missed our connecting flight. We were then booked onto a flight scheduled to take off 8 hours later, and were not given any compensation or remedial measures.

Book cheap flights from New York to Barcelona

Recent one-way flight deals, search by stops, search by airline, search by price, last minute flights from new york to barcelona, last minute flight, train and bus deals, flights to barcelona, destination:.

Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) Spain

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Barcelona-El Prat - New York

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Cheap flights from the United States to Barcelona from $185

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a cheapflights user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight departing on 9/28. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., how far in advance should i book a flight from usa to barcelona.

Travelers have found it’s best to book a flight 44 days in advance to save up to 17% compared to booking the same week of travel. As your travel date approaches, the cost of this flight route may potentially increase. While opting to book 44 days out may not be an option for all, there are still additional ways to secure a deal in the near future. You might find a flight from USA to Barcelona 1-2 weeks in advance for as low as $860, or $1,023 for flights within the next 24 hours.

What is the cheapest month to fly from USA to Barcelona?

Our data shows that January tends to be the cheapest month to fly to Barcelona from USA. Users have commonly found prices around $739 for the month, but tickets can be as low as $275. Due to multiple factors, prepare for potentially higher prices in June.

When is the cheapest time to fly from USA to Barcelona (US - BCN)?

When flying from USA to Barcelona, the time of day you decide to fly out makes little to no difference towards the overall price you’ll pay on tickets.

Cheap Air France flights from USA to Barcelona

Explore cheap flight options specifically provided by air france for the route between usa and barcelona. find affordable fares and compare prices with other airlines to secure the best deal for your journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,948,547 searches. data last updated april 30, 2024., consider these cheap air france flights we've found departing from usa to barcelona. be sure to come back soon if the deals available don't appeal to you at this time., cheap iberia flights from usa to barcelona, explore cheap flight options specifically provided by iberia for the route between usa and barcelona. find affordable fares and compare prices with other airlines to secure the best deal for your journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,948,547 searches. data last updated april 30, 2024., some of the lowest-priced iberia flights we've found at this time heading from usa to barcelona. deals frequently update to provide users with more options., cheap usa to barcelona flights in april & may 2024, find cheap flight options from usa to barcelona specifically for the months of april and may 2024. explore affordable fares based on user searches. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,948,547 searches. prices were last updated on april 30, 2024., scroll through some of the best deals on flights from usa to barcelona in 2024. for more flight deals, be sure to check back very soon., usa to barcelona 2024 flight deals, discover exclusive flight deals for travel between usa and barcelona in 2024. find excellent offers based on user searches. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,948,547 searches. data last updated april 30, 2024., non-stop flights to barcelona from usa, discover non-stop flight options from usa to barcelona. find direct flights with no layovers, providing a convenient travel experience. explore non-stop flight options based on user searches, and compare prices and availability for your desired travel dates. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,948,547 searches. data last updated april 30, 2024., take a look at some of the direct flights traveling from usa to barcelona in the near future. users can also choose from other usa to barcelona flights by using the search form above., usa to barcelona flights leaving soon, find last-minute flight options from usa to barcelona for spontaneous travel. discover available flights and compare prices based on user searches. secure great deals and offers for spontaneous trips with quick booking options. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,948,547 searches. data last updated april 30, 2024., consider one of these great deals we found on last-minute flights from usa to barcelona. users should be sure to double check the price, date, and time of their last-minute flight., one-way flights to barcelona from usa, search for one-way flight options from usa to barcelona. find affordable one-way fares based on user searches. compare prices and availability to plan your one-way journey according to your preferred dates and budget. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,948,547 searches. data last updated april 30, 2024., if you're seeking multiple options on one-way flights from usa to barcelona, be sure to check out these deals, which are updated often. for those needing a return trip from usa, there is a search form available above., find flights from usa to barcelona within your budget, customize your flight search to find flights from usa to barcelona that fit within your specific budget. explore options based on user searches and filter the results based on your desired price range. find flights that match your budget for a cost-effective journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 2,948,547 searches. data last updated april 30, 2024..

$349 - $512

Newark Barcelona-El Prat

1 stop 20h 30m

Barcelona-El Prat

1 stop 15h 35m

New York John F Kennedy Intl Barcelona-El Prat

New York John F Kennedy Intl

Nonstop 7h 45m

Nonstop 8h 55m

New Windsor Stewart Barcelona-El Prat

New Windsor Stewart

1 stop 20h 25m

1 stop 25h 55m

Boston Logan Intl Barcelona-El Prat

Boston Logan Intl

Nonstop 7h 20m

Nonstop 8h 25m

1 stop 19h 35m

1 stop 26h 50m

1 stop 16h 50m

1 stop 13h 20m

Miami Barcelona-El Prat

1 stop 19h 45m

Nonstop 10h 20m

1 stop 33h 00m

1 stop 12h 00m

Flights are sorted by cheapest first

Deals found on 4/30

No data available for this route at this time. Please check back soon.

Reviews of airlines servicing Barcelona

Get insights into the airlines that provide service to barcelona. read reviews, discover amenities, and learn about the overall travel experience offered by airlines. use this information to make informed decisions when choosing an airline for your flight to barcelona. reviews last updated april 30, 2024., read through reviews of airlines operating flights from usa to barcelona, such as air france, iberia and turkish airlines. users have also rated airlines in terms of entertainment options, comfort, food, crew/service, and boarding process..

Entertainment

Terrible flight crew that skipped our row for service multiple times.

Related info for your journey

Find useful and relevant information for your journey from usa to barcelona. access travel guides, tips, and recommendations to enhance your travel experience. get information about local attractions, weather, transportation options, and more., can i find flights from usa to barcelona for under $400 on cheapflights.

Yes, there are multiple flights from USA to Barcelona for under $400. The cheapest flight booked recently is on TAP AIR PORTUGAL for just $349, but on average you can expect to pay $367.

Are there nonstop flights from USA to Barcelona for under $400 on Cheapflights?

Cheapflights has at least 20 direct flights from USA to Barcelona under $400. A good price for a nonstop flight from USA to Barcelona is less than $375.

Are there last-minute flights available from USA to Barcelona for under $400?

There are currently 20+ open flights from USA to Barcelona within the next 7 days for less than $400.

What days are nonstop flights available from USA to Barcelona?

Nonstop flights are available for this route on the following days: Wednesday.

How many flights depart from USA to Barcelona on average per day?

On average, you can expect to see 4 flights from USA to Barcelona a day. Evening (6pm - Midnight) - 100% of flight departures

How long is the flight from USA to Barcelona?

Departing from USA to Barcelona will take you 7h 45m. Airlines will cover a distance of 6045 mi. This flight may include one or multiple stops.

What are the most popular routes from USA to Barcelona?

While some choose either New York John F Kennedy Intl - Barcelona-El Prat or New York LaGuardia - Barcelona-El Prat, Newark - Barcelona-El Prat is the most popular route from USA to Barcelona.

What are the most popular airlines that fly from USA to Barcelona?

When booking a flight from USA to Barcelona, you may want to consider flying on LEVEL, Undisclosed Carrier or American Airlines as they are the most popular for this route.

What are the most reliable airlines from USA to Barcelona?

Before booking your flight to Barcelona from USA, check out the most reliable airlines to get you to your destination on time: British Airways (80%), Iberia (64%), American Airlines( 62%).

What are the cheapest flights from USA to Barcelona?

The cheapest flight price from USA to Barcelona is $254. On average you can expect to pay $1,157. The most popular route, (Newark - Barcelona-El Prat), can usually be booked for $350.

What does LAX to BCN mean?

Los Angeles Airport is LAX and Barcelona-El Prat Airport is BCN. These codes are created by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and airlines use them to identify the departing and arrival airports in the flight routes they service. Ready for more IATA code knowledge? These are related airports for your current travel destination: Girona Costa Brava Airport (GRO), Reus Airport (REU), La Seu d'Urgell Aeroport De La Seu Airport (LEU), Lleida-Alguaire Airport (ILD).

Can I find deals for flights from USA to Barcelona that include extra baggage allowance?

The amount of baggage you can bring on your USA to Barcelona flight depends on the airline and the type of fare you've chosen. After entering your flight details, you'll be able to view the specific baggage policies for each deal in the search results. Keep in mind that certain deals may offer additional baggage allowance.

Can I find deals on flights from USA to Barcelona with specific airlines?

Yes, Cheapflights allows you to browse and filter USA to Barcelona flight deals by airline. After entering your origin and destination, use the available filters to view flights offered by airlines.

Can I find deals for flights from USA to Barcelona that include hotel bookings?

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Solo Trip to Barcelona: An Epic Guide for Intrepid Solo Explorers

I f you’re planning a solo trip to Barcelona then you’ve come to the right place for information, recommendations, and advice to add to your Barcelona itinerary.

After visiting the city quite a few times you will pick up tips for visiting Barcelona and the best ways to explore the city as a solo traveler.

Barcelona is one of the most beautiful places in Europe with plenty of things to do, really good weather and absolutely delicious food.

In this Barcelona solo travel guide, you will find tips for exploring Barcelona alone, the best places to stay in Barcelona for solo travellers, and the best tours in Barcelona for solo travellers.

Reasons to Visit Barcelona Solo

1. lots of opportunities to meet people.

One of the best reasons to visit Barcelona as a solo traveller is that there are lots of opportunities to meet people and make new friends.

If you’re traveling alone, you may want to make friends whilst you’re at it. This is one of the best ways to step out of your comfort zone and explore a new place uniquely.

Often you will find that meeting new people will give you recommendations on things you didn’t think to do in the destination and trying new things.

In Barcelona, there are lots of opportunities for you to meet new people and you’ll find that most people are very friendly too. When visiting Barcelona solo you will find that people are really chatty everywhere so it isn’t a hard task to make friends at all.

You’ll find that you can meet people at hostels (if you’re staying in one), there’s lots of activities that are with groups to make friends and even when you’re out eating dinner, the casual setting makes it much more inviting to chat with others.

2. Plenty of activities for solo travelers

As we mentioned in the last point, there are lots of activities that welcome solo travellers together so that you have a good opportunity to meet new people.

You will never feel alone or homesick in Barcelona because there are so many different tours and activities to join that invite people to mingle.

Later in this post, you will find some tours that we particularly recommend for solo travellers in Barcelona.

3. Affordable hostels for solo travelers

There are a lot of different places to stay in Barcelona but if you’re a solo traveler then hostels are the best places to stay.

You will find that there are a lot of activities at the hostels that are for people to get to know each other. Depending on the hostel, you can often expect beer pong, karaoke and different parties.

There are often also culture-related activities such as free walking tours, and sangria/margarita-making classes and we’ve even seen some that offer paella-making classes too.

Another highlight of staying at these hostels is that for everything that is included with the hostel, they are often really affordable considering that Barcelona is a capital city.

The hostel vibe is one of the best reasons to visit Barcelona as a solo traveler. It makes for a really fun, affordable experience to explore a new city.

4. Great transport links

Sometimes when you venture to a new place as a solo traveller, it can be a little tricky to get around and the attractions are far apart from each other.

This is one of the reasons that we love Barcelona because a lot of the main sights are within walking distance of each other. The ones that are not at a good distance are easily accessible by public transport.

In Barcelona, you can use either the metro which is quite affordable, public bus, driving, taxis, uber, and the tourist bus too. This makes it easy and budget-friendly for any solo travellers exploring around Barcelona.

5. Awesome nightlife

For those who want to experience some of Barcelona’s nightlife, you’ll be delighted to know that it is one of the best places to let your hair down and have a good time.

There are plenty of secret bars within Barcelona, you just have to know where to look! Not just that but there are plenty of not-so-secret parties too! If you’re looking to party the night away then you’ve definitely come to the right place.

As always, if you’re planning to head out partying whilst you’re in Barcelona then you want to make sure you take measures to keep yourself safe traveling solo.

6. Lively atmosphere

Whether you choose to go out partying in Barcelona or not, you will find that the city has a very lively atmosphere making it hard to not fall in love.

Barcelona is mostly a bustling hub throughout the year so you will always find plenty of activity and it’s great for people-watching. There is something about walking through Barcelona and feeling the vibe of everyone buzzing and excitement around nearly every corner.

As the locals tend to eat much later in Spain, you will find that even late at night there is still excitement. You can walk into the street at 11 pm and you will still find locals casually eating and chatting for dinner.

7. Easy dining alone options

Following on from that, as a solo traveller, you will really enjoy the dining arrangements in Barcelona.

As dinner time is quite casual across Spain, you will find that locals will sit outside to enjoy their tapas dishes and take their time eating food.

Sometimes, eating alone when you’re abroad can be one of the most lonely feelings but when you’re in Barcelona, it is so common to eat late at night.

The casual vibe of dinner time in Barcelona, makes eating alone feel much less lonely. You will find yourself feeling relaxed and at ease.

Dinner time is also a very sociable experience in Barcelona so you may find that locals may want to chat with you across the tables. This is a great way to meet local people and learn more about Barcelona and Spain’s culture.

Is Barcelona safe to travel alone?

When you’re traveling on your own, one of the most important things to consider is your safety.

One of the downsides of traveling around Europe is being mindful of pickpockets when you’re out and about. Unfortunately, this is no different in Barcelona as much as we wish it wasn’t.

Some areas in Barcelona are considered higher risk for pickpockets than others. We would recommend taking more care around Las Ramblas when you’re exploring Barcelona. This area in particular can be a particularly unsafe area of Barcelona.

No matter where you’re traveling, you will often find that there are problems with pickpockets so it is always worth taking extra precautions.

Generally speaking, we found Barcelona to be a very safe destination to visit and experienced minimal problems. Like most places you visit, there are areas in which you need to be more cautious.

When you’re traveling in Barcelona solo, you will find that most people are really friendly and always up to help. Just as we say, keep an eye out for pickpockets, keep an eye on your drinks, watch out for tourist scams and you’ll be grand!

Is Barcelona Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Travelling as a solo female is a very different experience and you can sometimes encounter different safety concerns than you would as a male.

Amy felt very safe exploring Barcelona as a solo female traveller and didn’t experience any issues at all. No matter where you’re traveling, we would always suggest taking precautions for your safety.

This can include researching areas that could be unsafe, any tourist scams you need to keep an eye out for, etc. We would also suggest that whenever you’re traveling on your own as a female keep an eye on your drink at all times or look at purchasing tools to prevent your drink from being spiked.

In our opinion, Barcelona is a very safe destination for solo female travelers as long as you take the usual precautions. We would recommend avoiding wandering around the Las Ramblas area late at night on your own. Other than that, you shouldn’t have any concerns about traveling to Barcelona as a solo female traveler.

Tips for Exploring Barcelona Alone

1. purchase a go city pass.

When you’re traveling on your own, costs can soon start to add up for attractions. If you’re spending a few days in Barcelona then we recommend considering purchasing a Go City Pass for Barcelona.

These passes are really good value for money and something that Amy wishes she had known about when she visited Barcelona as a solo travelers.

We were able to save so much money using the Go City pass and it also enabled us to visit a lot more attractions by using it than Amy did when she was a solo traveler.

This is something that you can easily save up for and purchase before traveling to Barcelona. This gives you the peace of mind that once you arrive, you only need to budget money for food and souvenirs so you won’t need to carry around as much cash in Barcelona.

If you’re not certain that it will be worth the money, we recommend writing down all the attractions that you’re planning to visit in Barcelona and how much it would cost.

Then compare this against how much it would cost to purchase a Go City pass for the number of days that you are in the city. We are certain that you will find that it is much cheaper to purchase one of these passes.

Purchase a Go City Pass Here!

2. Stay in hostels

As a solo traveler, one of the best ways to enjoy the experience is by sharing it with other travelers and making new friends.

There are plenty of amazing hostels to stay in around Barcelona that you will be truly spoilt for choice. We really enjoyed staying in St. Christopher’s Inn because it had a lot of different free activities where you can get to know the culture and meet other solo travelers in the process.

3. Take part in tours for solo travelers

If you’re looking to meet some new people but you would rather stay in a hostel then there are also plenty of tours that you can join in so that you can make friends.

The one thing that we really enjoyed about Barcelona is that it is a really diverse place to explore so there is a little something for everyone.

Whether you are a foodie, art lover, drinks connoisseur or just looking for picturesque Instagrammable spots, you will find a tour for you. You’ll also find plenty of inspiration for catchy Barcelona captions to go with your Instagram post too!

Later in this guide, you will find some recommended tours specifically for solo travelers. This is where you will find tours that are great for exploring Barcelona and you don’t feel alone also.

4. Go on a free walking tour

If you have a low budget for traveling then you need to take advantage of some of the free activities in Barcelona . Joining a free Barcelona walking tour is a perfect way to get to know the city and save the pennies for other experiences.

You’ll get to find local knowledge about Barcelona, and have a guide on hand to answer any questions, and of course, it is completely free.

These tours are also perfect for anyone who has a short amount of time in Barcelona so that you can see a lot of the main sights in a short period of time.

5. Be careful around Las Ramblas late at night

We’ve mentioned a few times now that Las Ramblas isn’t the safest area of Barcelona, especially for a solo traveler.

However, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t visit Las Ramblas at all. It is one of the main areas to explore in Barcelona. It can be a bit of a trap for pickpockets so as long as you keep yourself protected against pickpockets, you shouldn’t have too much trouble.

If you’re walking back to your hostel late at night, where possible we would recommend avoiding walking down Las Ramblas alone. You can find that there are a few characters best to avoid in this area so it’s worth trying to get back a different route or getting yourself a buddy to walk home with or a taxi.

6. Purchase a Hola Barcelona Travel Card

As a solo traveler, expenses can soon add up for traveling around a city using public transport. We recommend purchasing a Hola Barcelona Travel Card in advance to save yourself money.

You can choose between 2 days (48 hours) up to 5 days (120 hours) and have unlimited use on the metros, funiculars, buses, trams, trains, and even the airport bus.

This travel card is well worth the money and a great way to save money in Barcelona. We discovered this travel card on the last full day of our trip to Barcelona and we wish we had found it much sooner. It would have saved us so much time and money!

PURCHASE YOUR HOLA BARCELONA TRAVEL CARD HERE!

7. Keep your bag close to you

You may have noticed that we’ve mentioned about pickpockets in Barcelona quite a few times. Unfortunately, pickpockets are common across Europe and other countries in the world.

When you’re out and about visiting busy tourist attractions, keep your bag as close to you as possible. If you’re wearing a backpack then try to wear it on your front to deter people from getting into your bag.

Alternatively, it might be worth considering getting an anti-theft cross-body bag for when you’re out during the day. Keep a close eye on your belongings and where possible, leave any valuables at home!

Best Places to Stay in Barcelona for Solo Travelers

As a solo traveler, it is really important to pick the right place to stay when you’re traveling, no matter where in the world it is.

When you’re traveling on your own, you can find that there are a lot of hotels that will charge the same price (if not more) for single occupancy. Often, it is much cheaper and better value for money to book a bed at a hostel.

With that in mind, hostels are not for everyone so we’ve created a list below of the best hotels and hostels for solo travellers in Barcelona.

You’ll find that with these recommended hotels and hostels for Barcelona, we have tried to keep them as budget-friendly as possible.

Best Hostels for Solo Travelers Barcelona

St. Christopher’s Inn

If you’re going to stay at any hostel in Barcelona then our first choice would be St. Christopher’s Inn . When we first arrived here, the first thing we noticed was that it was really clean. They had closed one of the floors to do a deep clean and it was reassuring to know that this is done regularly.

We really enjoyed that there was an on-site bar and restaurant so if you’re exhausted from backpacking, this is an easy place to stop and grab a bite to eat.

It is a really sociable hostel with plenty of communal areas for you to mingle and chat with other travelers. There is also a pool table in the bar area which is great fun to talk to people and enjoy a friendly game.

There are also lots of activities to enjoy which is a great way for travelers to meet each other. At the time we visited, there were walking tours, paella cooking classes, and cocktail-making lessons.

The only downside that we would say with staying at St. Christopher’s Inn is that they have these eco-friendly showers which have a 1 minute timer on them. When you’re showering, you need to keep pressing the button to activate the shower which makes it difficult when you’re juggling your toiletries etc.

We did find that the lockers were under the bed and you had to pull the crate all the way out to store your items. They were also metal bars with holes in so you had to be really careful that nothing fell into the crate otherwise it would get lost under the bed. However, the lockers were quite large so you could fit a lot of things in them.

The dorm rooms have quite a few travelers in them but this is not always a bad thing as it’s an opportunity to meet more people. With such a central location, this hostel is a great place to stay for solo travelers, especially for those who are looking for a more social experience.

• Really clean
• Central location
• Great activities
• On-site bar
• Large dorm rooms
• Timer on showers
• Under the bed lockers

Safestay Barcelona Gothic

The Gothic Quarter is a great area to explore within Barcelona and this hostel is located right in the middle of it! This is a really great location to explore Barcelona and is recommended for ease of wandering.

We found that the social areas are really well put together with a ping-pong table to encourage other travelers to mingle with each other. There are also hammocks in the outside communal area which are great for chilling during the summer.

Unfortunately, not all of the dorm beds have curtains which can be a bit of a downside for privacy. We don’t know about you for some reason, but having a curtain around your bed makes you feel much more secure.

There are a lot of friendly activities available at this hostel as well which is a great way to explore the city, learn more about Barcelona’s culture, and of course meet other travelers.

• Great communal area
• Plenty of sociable activities
• Very good location
• Affordable breakfast options
• Not all dorm beds have curtains
• Limited kitchen facilities

Primavera Hostel

If you’re a solo traveler that likes to have their own space then having a private room at Primavera Hostel is a great place to stay in Barcelona.

Staying in a dorm room isn’t for everybody so staying at this hostel, you will have a private experience for an affordable cost. You will also be able to enjoy the social aspects of a hostel without sharing your space too.

There are dorm rooms available at the hostel but the private rooms are absolutely beautiful. The one thing that we really like about this hostel in particular is that it has a really homely vibe.

The kitchen is large with plenty of space for anyone that would prefer to cook food at the hostel. There are not many downsides that we can say about this hostel. It is a really great choice for your stay in Barcelona!

In honesty, the reviews speak for themselves regarding Primavera Hostel and it is amazing to see a hostel done right!

• Great location
• Lots of Private rooms
• Homely vibe
• Large kitchen
• Well reviewed
• Not a very sociable hostel
• No air-conditioning

Best Hotels in Barcelona for Solo Travelers

As we say, hostels are not for everyone and some people like to have their own space or maybe a little bit more or maybe a little more introverted.

It can be hard to find an affordable hotel as a solo traveler especially as they are often the same price (sometimes more) than if there were two of you staying in a room.

We’ve added some details for hotels that are really good for solo travelers and in a good location for the main attractions in Barcelona.

• Kimpton Vividora Hotel

This hotel is a great option for any solo travelers who are looking to enjoy a bit of luxury for their trip to Barcelona.

With a beautiful rooftop terrace overlooking the Sagrada Familia, this is a great option for anyone who is not on a low budget for their trip to Barcelona.

While Kimpton Vividora Hotel is a bit more of an expensive option for when you’re staying in Barcelona, it is definitely well worth the money.

Located close to the metro station, you will easily be able to get around Barcelona. There are lots of communal areas so it will make it much easier for you to meet new people whilst you’re traveling.

• Motel One Barcelona Ciutadella

For any solo travelers who are looking for a nice place to stay but also are on a bit more of a budget, Motel One in Barcelona is a great choice for you .

With a 24-hour lounge area, you will find that it is an amazing area to meet other travelers. You will also get to enjoy a delicious continental breakfast to start your day in Barcelona.

While this motel isn’t located directly in the center, it is very close to the metro station so you will still easily be able to get around Barcelona.

In our opinion, if you’re a solo traveler in Barcelona on a little bit more of a budget then this would be our recommendation. We find that the Motel looks as though it should be more expensive than it is with its modern vibe and beautiful decor.

Best Tours in Barcelona for Solo Travels

If you’re exploring Barcelona as a solo traveler then when you’re picking tours to join in on you want to be able to mingle with other people and not feel uncomfortable traveling alone.

We’ve included a mixture of tours below that are for small groups where you will be able to meet other travelers. You will also find a lot of tours that are much more hands-on which is always a great talking point.

You will be able to explore day tours in Barcelona that include food, culture, must-visit sightseeing spots, and some incredible bucket list tours that you need to tick off your list!

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Food Tours in Barcelona

One of the best ways to get to know a destination is by exploring the incredible local food. These tours below will give you the more incredible experience of making your own Tapas and paella and also different tasting tours!

These are great for solo travelers as you will meet other people on these tours and be able to take part in a group activity!

• Barcelona Tipsy Tapas Guided Food Tour with Dinner

For any solo travelers in Barcelona who want to experience a bit of the city’s nightlife as well as go on a tasting adventure, this is the perfect tour for you.

You will get to try different beers, cava, shots, and wine on this tour as well as plenty of yummy tapas dishes along the way.

These tours are very good for when you’re traveling alone because they are a really sociable experience where it is encouraged to make friends and chat with each other.

Price – £56.56 / $71.69 / 66.65 euros

BOOK YOUR TIPSY TAPAS TOUR HERE!

• Paella Barcelona: Market Visit, Tapas, Sangria & Paella Class

Whether you have tried Paella before or this is your first time, this is the ultimate experience for you to try as a solo traveler in Barcelona.

In a group setting, you will visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients to make your paella. Once you arrive back, you will get to know the other group members better while enjoying some delicious tapas and sangria.

You’ll then delve into making the paella from scratch learning plenty of tips and tricks from the chef along the way.

Dive into Barcelona’s food culture uniquely by learning to make your own paella and Sangria whilst meeting some other travelers while you’re at it!

BOOK YOUR PAELLA COOKING CLASS HERE!

• Barcelona Tapas & Wine Experience Small-Group Walking Tour

If you’re someone who likes to try new food but not so keen on making it yourself then this is a great intimate tour for you to join.

In this small group tour, you will get to explore different hotspots that serve some of the best tapas in Barcelona. You’ll try different tapas dishes at each restaurant paired with different wine selections.

This sociable tour is a perfect way to enjoy an authentic experience in Barcelona while expanding your tastebuds at the same time!

If you wish to do so, you can also upgrade to end the tour with a Flamenco show making a recipe for a perfect afternoon/evening in Barcelona.

BOOK YOUR BARCELONA TAPAS & WINE EXPERIENCE HERE

Unique Experiences in Barcelona

For any solo travelers that are looking to try something a little different in Barcelona then you might find that these tours are of interest.

As a solo traveler, it can sometimes be difficult to find tours that are good for when you’re traveling alone and to meet other people.

The tours that we’ve included are sociable experiences that enable you to see Barcelona in a unique light.

• Barcelona Sailing Cruise with Light Snacks & Open Bar

If you’ve seen a lot of Barcelona by land then why not get a different perspective of Barcelona by seeing the highlights from the sea?

This tour is perfect during the hot weather to enjoy the sea breeze and look out at the beautiful cityscape of Barcelona. Another perk is that snacks and an open bar are included in the price.

You can choose between wine, cava, beer, and soft drinks at the open bar but this is most suited if you’re planning to drink some alcohol to make the most of it.

It is a really sociable tour where you will be able to revel in the beauty of Barcelona with strangers and depart the luxury yacht as friends.

BOOK YOUR BARCELONA SAILING CRUISE HERE!

• Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes Barcelona in La Rambla

One of Amy’s favorite experiences from her solo trip to Barcelona was enjoying a Flamenco show. Whilst this isn’t as much of a sociable experience as the other tours as generally speaking you’re just appreciating the dancing.

However, it is an experience where you don’t need to be with other people to be able to enjoy it. This is a great insight into Barcelona’s culture from a different perspective and admire the incredible dance of Flamenco.

For this particular tour, you can upgrade to include dinner and drinks too so you can make a whole evening of it if you wish to do so. Even if you don’t choose this tour, we highly recommend attending a Flamenco show before you leave Barcelona!

BOOK YOUR BARCELONA FLAMENCO SHOW HERE!

• Girona & Dali Museum Small Group Tour with Hotel Pick-Up from Barcelona

Take some time outside of Barcelona itself and head to Girona and Figueres for a unique adventure.

On this tour, you will get to explore the Jewish Quarter of Girona learning as you go. Here, you will learn more about the ancient Roman history within Girona and expand your mind.

When you visit Figueres you will get a chance to wander around the Dali museum and learn more about the artwork on display. As Dali’s hometown was in Figueres, you will also be able to walk in his footsteps and see some of the inspiration for Dali’s work.

There is a maximum of 8 tourists for this tour so you will be in a small group which is a great way to make new friends through the love of art.

BOOK YOUR GIRONA & DALI TOUR HERE!

Sightseeing Tours in Barcelona

If you’re looking to see more of Barcelona, and get more information from expert guides in a group atmosphere then these group of tours will be great for you.

Explore Gaudi’s Barcelona, museums, the Montserrat monastery, or a combined tour where you get to see the highlights of Barcelona!

• Sagrada Familia & Montserrat Small Group Tour with Hotel Pick-Up

One of the biggest highlights of visiting Barcelona is to see Gaudi’s famous Sagrada Familia. The Sagrada Familia is still under construction and has been a work in progress since 1882 and it is set to be complete over the next few weeks.

This is a great tour to be able to explore this incredible Basilica and learn more about its construction and Gaudi himself.

Another perk of this tour is that you will head up to the top of the mountain to see the Montserrat monastery. This is a really unique experience for you to do as a solo traveler.

Whether you choose to do this tour or not, we would highly recommend visiting Montserrat during your time in Barcelona. This was one of Amy’s personal highlights during her solo trip to Barcelona. The views from the top of the mountain are worth it alone!

BOOK YOUR SAGRADA FAMILIA & MONTSERRAT TOUR HERE!

• Complete Gaudi Tour: Casa Batllo, Park Guell & Sagrada Familia

When you’re in Barcelona, Gaudi is everywhere you look and there’s no escaping his works but for good reason.

The work that Gaudi completed throughout Barcelona is one of the reasons why it is such a popular destination to this day. Even now, the Sagrada Familia is still under construction, long after Gaudi has passed.

On this complete Gaudi tour, you will visit Gaudi’s most famous and popular pieces of work. These are things that you cannot miss whilst you’re visiting Barcelona so it is definitely worth doing a combined tour to be able to see it all before you leave Barcelona.

Your tour also includes skip-the-line access to these attractions so you will save a lot of time queuing. With a local guide, you will also learn a lot about the construction of the buildings by Gaudi and the significance they hold for Barcelona.

BOOK YOUR COMPLETE GAUDI TOUR HERE!

• Montserrat with Cogwheel Train, Tasting in a Boutique Winery with Tapas or Lunch

We mentioned in the other tour that included Montserrat that you should definitely make sure that it is a part of your Barcelona itinerary before you leave.

This tour focuses mostly on Montserrat and you will get to enjoy some unique experiences whilst you’re at the top of the mountain.

Another highlight of this tour is that you will also get to enjoy a wine tasting whilst you’re visiting Montserrat. This is great for solo travellers as you will be able to enjoy wine tasting in a safe environment.

This is an incredible guided tour where you will get to enjoy beautiful views, learn something new and try delicious food and wine whilst you’re at it!

BOOK YOUR MONTSERRAT TOUR HERE!

• Barcelona in One Day: Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell & Old Town with Hotel Pick-Up

If you’re only in Barcelona for a limited amount of time then you want to try and make the most of it as much as possible. With this particular tour, you will be able to visit the highlights of Barcelona in a short period of time.

This tour will take you past a lot of main attractions in Barcelona so that you can see some of the top sights. You will also get to enjoy beautiful views from the top of Montjuic Mountain and enjoy a walking tour through the Gothic Quarter.

You can choose to enter Parc Guell and Sagrada Familia during your tour which are some of the main tourist attractions within Barcelona.

This tour is perfect for any solo travellers that have limited time in Barcelona and want to make the most of the time that they have!

BOOK YOUR BARCELONA IN ONE DAY TOUR HERE!

Bucket List Experiences in Barcelona

Just because you’re traveling on your own in Barcelona, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t get to enjoy some of the most amazing ways to see Barcelona.

Below you will find some really unique, bucket list experiences that you can enjoy in Barcelona making your solo trip unforgettable!

• 360o Barcelona: Old Town Walking, Helicopter Flight & Sailing Small Group Tour

Take the unique opportunity to be able to experience Barcelona by land, sea, and air by taking part in this incredible bucket list tour in Barcelona.

You will get to learn more about Barcelona by enjoying a guided tour through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. This is one of the most picturesque areas of Barcelona and you’ll learn more about Barcelona’s cathedral and the legends that surround this area.

After you’ve experienced some of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, you will also get to explore more of the city itself and go to the top of the Christopher Columbus statue. This offers some beautiful panoramic views of the city so that you can see it from a unique perspective.

Now for the ultimate bucket list experience, soar in the air with a helicopter ride over Barcelona taking in all the views. The helicopter ride is around 6 minutes long but for the price of this whole tour, you absolutely cannot grumble at that!

To end your day trip, you will join a sailing tour so that you can see Barcelona from the sea. You’ll enjoy the sea breeze running through your hair and seeing the skyline from the boat.

Overall, this is a really unique tour where you will get to see Barcelona in a completely different light. It is also incredible value for money too so it is well worth the cost!

Price – £117.46 / $149.08 / 137.79 euros

BOOK YOUR TOUR IN ADVANCE HERE

• Hot-Air Balloon Flight Over Catalonia with Optional Pick-Up from Barcelona

We don’t know about you but getting to see a city from a hot balloon is an ultimate bucket list experience that we are dreaming about.

There is no better place than to experience a hot air balloon ride than while you’re visiting Barcelona. You can arrange for a pick-up from Barcelona to soar high over Catalonia.

When you’re in the air, you will be able to see the top of Montserrat and Pyrenees Mountains. This tour takes place early in the morning so you will get to see the beautiful colours over the sky.

Once you’ve been in the air for an hour and a half, you will float back down to the ground to enjoy some delicious brunch and a champagne toast. This is a great way to celebrate ticking off a bucket list adventure during your time in Barcelona.

BOOK YOUR HO T AIR BALLOON RIDE HERE!

• Andorra, France & Spain: The Original Three Countries Tour

If you’re an avid traveler like us then you may want to be trying to tick off as many countries as possible. This tour is the perfect way to do just that while you’re visiting Barcelona.

With this tour, you will get to explore 3 different countries in the space of one day which is almost unheard of!

Departing from Barcelona, you will be transferred to the small Spanish town of Baga. You will be taken on a small walking tour to enjoy the beauty of Baga before jumping back on the bus to the next destination.

France will be the next location on the list where you will be taken to the ancient spa town of Thermes d’Ax. There are plenty of gorgeous fountains that are thought to contain healing waters. After enjoying some free time, you will be able to wander around some of the traditional French shops and enjoy a delicious French lunch.

On your way to Andorra, you will journey through the stunning Pyrenees Alps offering some gorgeous views to top off your trip. You’ll head into the capital of Andorra; Andorra la Vella where you will have plenty of time to wander and take in your 3rd country in a day.

One of the things that we like the most about this tour is that it is not just the scenery in each country that you get to see but also the views along the way too. They will also take another route back to Barcelona so that you can experience some different dramatic views along the way.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or not, this is an ultimate bucket list tour that you absolutely should not miss whilst you’re visiting Barcelona!

BOOK YOUR 3 COUNTRIES IN A DAY TOUR HERE!

Conclusion: Is Barcelona Good for Solo Travel?

There you have it, all the information that is important for visiting Barcelona as a solo traveler. The question that remains; is Barcelona good for solo travel?

Barcelona has such a diverse culture for you to experience and plenty of opportunities for solo travelers to join in on group tours at affordable prices.

There are so many different things to do in Barcelona that you won’t be twiddling your thumbs wondering what to do next or where you should go.

As a lot of solo travelers visit Barcelona every year, there are plenty of options for you to choose from for accommodation. You’ll also find that it is a really safe location to walk around alone too.

Do you have any other tips for exploring Barcelona as a solo traveler? Pop them in the comments to help support other travelers to have the best experience in Barcelona.

About the Authors: Amy & Liam are the two halves that make up  Plain2Plane ; a travel blog for couples exploring on a budget. Nowadays, the 9-5 life is becoming outdated so Plain2Plane set about traveling as much as they can in their spare time and inspiring other couples that they can do the same too!

The post Solo Trip to Barcelona: An Epic Guide for Intrepid Solo Explorers appeared first on Dreams in Heels - Travel and Lifestyle Blog by a Latina Abroad .

This popular European city is the latest to increase its tourist tax to battle overtourism

Barcelona is the latest European city to increase its city-wide tourist tax, a slight increase of €0.50 (about $0.53) per night, as the city seeks to curb overtourism. 

The new price of €3.25 (about $3.45) was implemented on April 1 as part of the Stays in Tourist Establishments Tax . The bylaw was introduced in 2021, when the tourist tax was €0.75 (around $0.80) per night, and gradually increased the tax each year through 2024. Now, if someone is staying in Barcelona for seven nights, the new total tax amount will be €22.75 (around $24).

“It was the objective sought: to contain the number of tourists and increase tourist income because our model is no longer mass tourism but quality tourism, which adds value to the city,” deputy mayor Jaume Collboni said in March, according to Euronews . 

The tax is added to a tourist’s accommodations bill when they stay at official tourist establishments in the city. The money goes toward enhancing the city’s infrastructure, such as improving roads. 

Other popular European destinations, such as Amsterdam and Venice, also recently increased tourist taxes for similar reasons. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Are tourist taxes the future of travel? What to know about the increasing tourist fees worldwide.

“The new and increasing tourist fees across Europe allow cities to fund measures to attract more vacationers, support the local infrastructure and businesses, as well as preventing damages from overtourism,” Tiffany Mealiff, a travel insurance expert at Quotezone , said in a statement to USA TODAY.

However, Barcelona visitors have had to pay a regional tourist tax since 2012, according to Euronews . This tax amount depends on a traveler’s accommodation type, costing more if someone is staying at a luxury hotel than an Airbnb. 

Barcelona continues to reign as Spain’s most popular tourist destination. In 2022, Barcelona welcomed 9.7 million tourists , just slightly below pre-pandemic levels in 2019, according to the Barcelona City Council. However, tourists were found to be staying in the city longer than in 2019. 

In 2022, the city also sought to cap the number of people in a tour group and ban megaphones by tour guides in an effort to curb the disruptive effects of overtourism. 

Travelers planning their European getaway should be mindful of the additional costs that “are often not obvious beforehand,” according to Mealiff, as they plan their trip budgets.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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• The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in Spain

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for Spanish hotels in 2024.

Spain Barcelona MICHELIN Keys Madrid Hotels

On April 29, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new One, Two, and Three Key distinctions for the most outstanding hotels in Spain. This announcement comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in Spain includes five Three Key hotels, 12 Two Key hotels, and 80 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to see all the Keys.

How To Look Through the List

Jump straight to the list or take a deeper dive into select key hotels..

Look inside the Sentinel Suite of Mallorca's 2-Key fortress hotel. See what makes this 1-Key hotel among the best designed in the country. Or take a look at all of Spain's 3-Key hotels, in photos. Subscribe to our newsletter for more like this.

Highlights of the Spain 2024 Key Hotel List

Remarkable Personality in the Balearic Islands

Between Mallorca, Minorca, and Ibiza, the Balearic Islands display some of greatest variety in Key hotel winners across any region in the country. Mallorca, in particular, finds a bevy of options: from the small and historic ( Son Brull Hotel & Spa , Hotel Can Ferrereta , Nobis Hotel Palma ) to the stylish hotspots ( Es Princep and La Residencia ). One jewel on the island that defies typical categorization: Cap Rocat, an ancient fortress expertly remade , where the top suites occupy former cannon dugouts. On Minorca, check out Key hotels like Torralbenc , a tasteful, intimate, high-end hotel built from the bones of an old farm; or, in the capital of Mahón, look at Cristine Bedfor — one of the most creative, high-concept design hotels in our collection. Also read: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

Radical and Renewed Design

In Madrid, you’ll find Key hotels largely in historic 19th or 20th century facades. Places like Santo Mauro , in a former Duke’s 1895 neoclassical mansion, or the Ritz , a Belle Époque palace that dates back to King Alfonso XIII. These are remarkable, and mainstays of our Spanish collection — but we’re ecstatic too to celebrate grand departures from such a style. The pinnacle: Hotel Marques de Riscal , a state-of-the-art Frank Gehry building complete with titanium “hair” (Gehry’s words) swooping above its vineyards. See too the ultra-modern glass boxes at Vivood Landscape Hotel outside Alicante.

Key Hotels with MICHELIN Star restaurants

The Key hotel distinction and the MICHELIN Star for restaurants are decided independently of one another, but it so happens that several hotels in Spain sport both. Among them: Akelarre in San Sebastián (restaurant: Akelarre ), Atrio Restaurante Hotel in Cáceres (restaurant: Atrio ), and Pepe Vieria Restaurant Hotel in Poio (restaurant: Pepe Vieira ). Not unrelated, we see too a strong crop of winery hotels. Places like Terra Dominicata (a 12th century monastery with its own vintage) and Torre del Marques (an 18th century tower with views of the olive groves) are two of our most fascinating. Also read: The 5 Room Inn with 3 Keys and 3 Stars

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

Cáceres:  Atrio Restaurante Hotel Escaladei: Terra Dominicata - Hotel & Winery Madrid: Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid Sardoncillo:  Torre del Marqués Hotel Spa & Winery Teruel:  Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine

New York by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and explore

The two key hotels.

A Coruña: Casa Beatnik Hotel Barcelona: Mandarin Oriental Barcelona Cala Blava: Cap Rocat Deià-Mallorca:  La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, Mallorca Madrid:  Four Seasons Hotel Madrid Madrid:  Rosewood Villa Magna Marbella:  Marbella Club Hotel Palma de Mallorca: Hotel Can Cera Poio:  Pepe Vieira Restaurant & Hotel San Sebastián:  Akelarre Santanyí:  Hotel Can Ferrereta Torrent:  Mas de Torrent Hotel & Spa  

The One Key Hotels

Adeje:  Bahia del Duque Adeje:  Royal Hideaway Corales Resort Alaior:  Torralbenc   Albolote:  Hotel Cortijo del Marqués Artà: Es Raco d'Artà   Barcelona: ABaC Restaurant & Hotel Barcelona:  Alma Barcelona Barcelona: Almanac Barcelona Barcelona:  Antiga Casa Buenavista Barcelona:  Hotel Arts Barcelona Barcelona:  Hotel Boutique Mirlo Barcelona:  Mercer Hotel Barcelona Barcelona:  Monument Hotel Barcelona:  Ohla Eixample Barcelona:  Serras Barcelona   Barcelona:  Seventy Barcelona Barcelona:  Soho House Barcelona Barcelona: The One Barcelona Barcelona: Wittmore Hotel Barcelona Barcelona: Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa Benimantell:  VIVOOD Landscape Hotel & Spa - Adults Only Briones: Hotel Santa María Briones Cala Vadella:  Petunia Ibiza, A Beaumier Hotel Campos:  Sa Creu Nova Petit Palais Art & Spa Canfranc-Estación:  Canfranc Estación, a Royal Hideaway Hotel Capdepera:  Predi Son Jaumell Casares:  Finca Cortesin Cordoba: Hospes Palacio Del Bailio Donostia:  Lasala Plaza Hotel Elciego: Hotel Marques de Riscal Es Canar: Bless Hotel Ibiza Es Capdellà: Castell Son Claret Garraf: Little Beach House Barcelona Girona: Hotel Mas Lazuli Granada: Seda Club Hotel Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel Luces: CoolRooms Palacio de Luces Madrid: CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha Madrid: Gran Hotel Inglés Madrid: Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques Madrid: Hotel Unico Madrid Madrid:  Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid Madrid:  Only YOU Hotel Atocha Madrid:  Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel Madrid:  The Principal Madrid Madrid:  The Westin Palace Madrid Madrid:  URSO Hotel & Spa Madrid Mahón:  Can Alberti 1740 Hotel Boutique Mahón:  Cristine Bedfor Mallorca:  Cap Vermell Grand Hotel Marbella:  Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavís Marbella Resort Marbella:  Nobu Hotel Marbella Menorca:  Hotel Can Faustino Mijas:  La Zambra Resort Monachil:  La Almunia del Valle Montuïri:  Finca Serena Mallorca Palafrugell:  Can Mascort Eco Hotel Palma:  Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden Palma:  Es Princep Palma:  Sant Francesc Hotel Singular Palma:  Boutique Hotel Posada Terra Santa Palma:  Castillo Hotel Son Vida Palma:  El Llorenç Parc de la Mar - Adults Only Palma:  Nobis Hotel Palma Peralada:  Hotel Peralada Wine Spa & Golf Pollensa:  Son Brull Hotel & Spa Salamanca:  Hotel Rector San Sebastián:  Hotel Maria Cristina San Sebastián:  Hotel Villa Favorita - Adults Only San Sebastián:  Nobu Hotel San Sebastián Santander:  Helguera Palacio Boutique & Antique Santiago de Compostela:  Hotel Spa Relais & Chateaux A Quinta da Auga Seville:  CoolRooms Palacio Villapanés Seville:  Hotel Mercer Sevilla Seville:  Unuk Soller:  Hotel L'Avenida Valencia:  Caro Hotel Valencia:  Helen Berger Boutique Hotel Valencia:  Only YOU Hotel Valencia Villanueva de Tapia:  La Bobadilla

Hero Image: Marquès de Riscal  — Elciego

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Barcelona is a cradle of art, fashion and fine food. And with the return of our direct flights there in the summer, you now have an even greater excuse to rediscover the charming Catalonian capital. 

From grand sailing expeditions to gastronomic journeys, here’s our guide to the finest luxury experiences Barcelona has to offer – curated exclusively for Cathay Diamond members.  

The most outstanding constructions of Antoni Gaudí – icons of Catalan modernism – offer exclusive experiences, such as tours with an aperitif at Casa Vicens or night tours with a concert at Casa Batlló . The city is also home to initiatives aimed at art lovers all year round. The third weekend of September is Barcelona Gallery Weekend , which is aimed at collectors, while auction houses regularly hold one-time sales. Modernism also defines the Palau de la Musica Catalana , a work by legendary architect Lluís Domenech i Montaner and a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1997. This is where the city’s best operas are performed, while the auditorium is also home to the Orfeón Català, the city’s choir, founded in 1891. 

Even more exotic than all that modernism is the award-winning Mayan Luxury Spa . Located in the Palace Hotel (formerly the Ritz), it’s the only spa with a temazcal in Spain. This pre-Hispanic Mayan sauna works with the heat of volcanic stones and medicinal herbs, offering rituals carried out by an authentic temazcaltzin or shaman. The Natura Bissé treatments, by contrast, are from a local cosmetics brand founded 44 years ago. Try out its products in the spa on the 43rd floor of the Hotel Arts Barcelona , with incredible views of the Mediterranean. 

The sea is one of the city’s main attractions, but only a privileged few get to enjoy it from the most modern yachts and sailboats on the market. Companies such as This Is Med rent them with a skipper and chef on board, and complement the sailing with experiences such as wine tastings and winery visits. Winery Pereleda is an hour and a half by car from the city; opened in 2023 after an investment of 46 million euros, it’s located underground with a medieval castle on the surface. Its portfolio of visits allows you to taste the best wines and cavas in the collection. You can also get there with a helicopter from Mach Helicopters , which specialises in gastronomic and wine tourism flights.  

Where to eat

Three years after the closure in 2011 of El Bulli, the restaurant with which Ferran Adrià revolutionised Spanish cuisine, its former chefs opened Disfrutar . Today, it’s second on the list of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and has just won its third Michelin star. Experiences are also served up at Enigma , where Albert Adrià – one of the most influential and innovative figures in world gastronomy – uses technology to bring out the best from local products. Its 25-course menu changes every month.  

Barcelona also has gastronomic temples run by long-time masters of Spanish cuisine , such as Martín Berasategui. His Lasarte boasts three Michelin stars for its delicious Basque recipes made with seasonal ingredients. There’s also design-forward Alkimia , an ideal destination to try traditional Catalan cuisine.  

The tradition of pastries also shouldn’t be overlooked. Try options like La Pastisseria by Josep María Rodríguez Guerola and Ana Jarquín, or Hoffmann , the winner of the Best Pastry in Barcelona award last year.  le.  

Where to shop

Along the Paseo de Gràcia, you’ll find boutiques from all the top luxury brands. But none has the history of Santa Eulalia , which opened in 1843. In addition to selling prestigious brands, it has its own tailoring and shirt-making atelier for men, earning it a place among The Business of Fashion’s 30 top menswear stores in the world. 

Another long-time favourite is Bagués Masriera , which was founded in 1839. It continues to produce a collection of Art Nouveau jewellery, a style closely identified with Barcelona.

Located in Poblenou, Barcelona’s most cutting-edge neighbourhood, Unusual Concept Store offers the best of local design, with shoes by Eight & Argot, furniture by Mobles 114 and Indoors and objects by DOIY and Octaevo. Visitors can also find products by a careful curation of international brands such as shoemaker 4ccccess and hand-made blown glass by Vanessa Mitrani.    

Where to stay

With a luxurious location on the Paseo de Gràcia, among Gaudí’s best-known buildings, Mandarin Oriental Barcelona combines the modern design of Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola with the gastronomy of revered chef Carme Ruscalleda. The hotel also boasts one of the city’s top spas. 

Close by, in the Gothic Quarter, is The Barcelona Edition , with interiors designed by Ian Schrager. Everything in its hundred rooms and suites, decorated with walnut wood and marble, expresses luxury. It also features one of the city’s most lively rooftop venues and an elegant classic cocktail bar. 

Monument Hotel is a Modernist palace in the capital of the architectural style. Its spacious rooms overlook the Paseo de Gràcia, while it boasts numerous premium experiences, a restaurant directed by Martín Berasategui and a spa.  

Also owned by Marriott, Cotton House Hotel occupies the 19th-century former headquarters of the Cotton Textile Foundation, retaining original features such as its large marble staircase and wooden floors. Its decoration, by Spain’s Lázaro Rosa-Vilán, is inspired by natural cotton and everything it evokes, from softness to delicacy, a hallmark of its exquisite service. It also has an outdoor pool.

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Fc barcelona versus valencia preview: xavi makes lineup changes.

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FC Barcelona faces Valencia at the Montjuic Stadium on Monday night.

FC Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez will make changes to his line up when the Catalans host Valencia at the Montjuic Stadium on Monday evening.

Barca goes into the tie 14 points behind bitter rivals Real Madrid in La Liga, with a game in hand.

During his prematch press conference at the weekend, Xavi practically surrendered the top flight crown his men won in spring last year and set fresh objectives for the rest of the term .

After losing El Clasico and a Champions League quarterfinal second leg to Paris Saint-Germain in a matter of days, the Blaugrana's goal now is "to finish second and qualify for the Super Cup".

Standing in Barca's way of managing to do that in an immediate sense is Valencia, who Xavi described as a "very deserving opponent" which has enjoyed an "extraordinary" La Liga campaign while boasting "a lot of speed up front", great work in transition and a punishing counter-attack.

To take them on, Xavi will make some changes compared to the outfit that lost 3-2 to Madrid in the Bernabeu.

Captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen keeps his place in goal and so does every member of the backline made up of Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsi, Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde from left to right.

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Center back Andreas Christensen is the pivot, but a season-ending injury to Frenkie de Jong means that it is Fermin Lopez who partners Ilkay Gundogan in the more advanced midfield positions.

For the second straight game, Pedri is overlooked by his head coach. Yet Xavi said that he is "100%" ready to help his team, which might mean minutes in the second half.

On the front line, Robert Lewandowski is the striker flanked by Lamine Yamal to his right and Raphinha on the left wing.

With Girona away next weekend, this Valencia showdown is a chance for Barca to get back to winning ways.

Considering torrential rain pouring down in Barcelona on Monday, however, and the fact that this fixture was changed from a family-friendly time of 14.00 Saturday afternoon to this evening at 21.00, just how many Culers turn out to cheer their team on remains to be seen.

FC Barcelona Starting XI Vs. Valencia: Ter Stegen; Cancelo, Cubarsi, Araujo, Kounde; Christensen, Gundogan, Fermin; Raphinha, Lewandowski, Lamine

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