General Overview
Barcelona is one of Spain’s most dynamic and open cities. The atmosphere is a bit surreal boasting a great mixture of facts and fantasy, traditional and avant garde. From casual walks through some of Gaudi’s famed attractions to sipping sangrias at a nearby cafe, Barcelona offers a great variety in history, artistic treasures, cuisine and fashion. Come and experience it for yourself!
Quick Facts
Weather: There is no “bad” time of year to visit Barcelona. Late spring and early summer typically sees mild to warm weather and frequent sunny skies. However, July and August can get considerably hot with plenty of humidity. Fall and winter tends to boast rain and cooler weather with little to no snow.
Currency: Euros (EUR)
Visa: Visa requirements for entry will vary. Click here for more info.
Time Zone: Central European Time Zone (CEST)
Language: Spanish
Transportation: The metro is the quickest, most effective way to navigate through Barcelona. The metro operates weekdays (Monday to Thursday) and public holidays from 5:00 AM to 12:00 midnight. Fridays and eves of public holidays are from 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM. On Saturdays, the metro opens at 5:00 AM with continuous service into Sunday until midnight.
You can purchase individual journeys for 2.15 EUR per ticket. If you plan on taking more than five journeys, it is more cost effective to purchase the T10 ticket, which allows you 10 journeys in Zone 1 (main attractions – city center). The T10 ticket costs 10.30 EUR. Click here for more info.
The Barcelona Card gives you free, unlimited journeys on all transportation and discount admission into most attractions.
Getting from Barcelona El Prat Airport: There are many options to choose from. From a cost effective perspective, Aerobus is your best option. Aerobus offers express service from the airport to the city center (Plaza de Espana or Plaza de Catalunya). Buses depart from both Terminals 1 and 2. Single tickets are 5.90 EUR, return tickets 10.90 EUR.
Key Events: Easter (Apr), Primavera Sound Festival (May), San Joan Festival (Jun), La Merce Fiesta (Sept), Barcelona Jazz Festival (Oct – Nov), Christmas Traditions (Dec – Jan).
Accommodation
Located 10 minutes from Sants Railway Station and a 20 minute enjoyable walk from Barcelona’s city center, The Amister Art Hotel offers sleek and modern style accommodations boasting nice finishes and traces of Barcelona’s architecture and contemporary art inside. Equipped with all the necessities to ensure a comfortable stay, The Amister is prepared to offer a pleasant and complete experience. Be sure to enjoy the daily complimentary refreshments in the lobby including champagne and sparkling wine.
Additional Hotel Recommendations: The W Barcelona, Casa Gracia (high-end hostel), and Hotel 1898 are several of my favorite places to stay when visiting Barcelona.
Things To See
La Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia is one of Gaudi’s most impressive works. Under construction since his death in 1926, this masterpiece is a true representation of Barcelona’s rich history.
La Pedrera – Casa Mila
Casa Mila is another unique and artistic allusion created by Gaudi during the early 1900s.
Casa Batllo
Located along Passeig de Gracia, Casa Batllo, and its “skull” like balconies, was designed by Gaudi for a wealthy aristocrat, Josep Batllo. This site is well worth a visit.
Parc Guell
Parc Guell boasts some of the best views of Barcelona. There is plenty to do once inside, however, if you’re on a budget, the best views are at the top of the hill, which is free of charge!
Parc de la Ciutadella
101 things can be done at Parc de la Cuitadella – picnic, boating, hiking, and cultural exhibitions to name a few. Get in and get lost.
Plaza de Espana
Barcelona’s most beautiful square!
Plaza de Catalunya
A lovely plaza in the center of town surrounded by amazing cafes and cheap eats.
Passeig de Gracia
Passeig de Gracia is a slice of heaven for all fashion lovers. All major brands, priced high and low, can be found along this avenue.
Las Rambles
No trip to Barcelona is complete without a stroll down the famous, tree-lined Las Ramblas filled with restaurants, shopping, “charming” street vendors, and a good combination of both tourists and locals. During the late hours, be careful walking this strip.
La Boqueria
La Boqueria is one of Barcelona’s popular public markets offering a diverse selection of goods.
El Barri Gotic
Barri Gotic, also known as the Gothic Quarter, is situated in Barcelona’s old city and offers a great mixture of Barcelona’s historic past and vibrant present.
El Born
El Born is outstanding! It is home to many bars, restaurants, and stylish boutiques. This is a great place to get lost!
Catedral de Barcelona
A beautiful gothic cathedral located in the Barri Gotic district.
La Barceloneta
Barcelona’s main beach area surrounded by narrow and lively streets!
Castle Montjuic
One of Barcelona’s best hiking trails offering impressive views of the city center. Castle Montjuic is a great place to sit idle, relax, and take in your surroundings.
Dancing Water Fountain
A must see in Barcelona! Water, bright colors, and music – this show is incredible!
Social Scene
Tenorio, Toree D’Alta Mar, and Negro Carbon are three of my favorite restaurants in Barcelona. However, the dining options in this city are endless! Additionally, there are many nightclubs to choose from in Barcelona that will suit any taste. My favorites, a bit more on the upscale side, are The W Wet Bar, La Isabella Terrace, and El Boo Beach Club.
The W Wet Bar
La Isabella Terrace
Have you been to Barcelona? Feel free to share your tips below!
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