Barcelona has captured my heart and earned its spot as one of my top favourite cities in the world! The city’s ideal location by the sea and mountains offers the perfect balance of urban and natural environments. Not to mention, the city is brimming with awe-inspiring art, delectable cuisine, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Thanks to the creative genius of the renowned Gaudi, Barcelona is a city where art and architecture are seamlessly intertwined. And let’s not forget about the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle that permeates the city – it’s no wonder I’ve always dreamed of living here! Join me as we dive into the best that Barcelona has to offer in this ultimate guide to the city.

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When to visit Barcelona 

If you’re wondering when to visit Barcelona, the answer depends on your preferences. Having visited the city during both summer and winter, I can say that both seasons offer unique and enjoyable experiences.

Summer in Barcelona is great for those who love warm weather and the beach scene. You can spend your days lounging on the sand, sipping cocktails, and attending music festivals. However, be prepared for hot temperatures.

If you prefer milder weather, consider visiting during the fall or winter months. This time of year is perfect for long walks and sightseeing, as the crowds are smaller and the temperatures are cooler.

Where to stay in Barcelona 

When I first visited Barcelona a decade ago, I found a cosy Airbnb in the charming Gothic Quarter. The location was perfect and easy on the wallet.

Fast forward to my second visit in the summer of 2022, and I discovered that Barcelona had become pricier. I had to widen my search and ended up booking the Onix Fira Hotel. While it was situated a bit farther away, the hotel was conveniently located next to a large shopping centre and the stunning Magic Fountain of Montjuic. However, the pool was a bit of a letdown as it was small and swarmed with kids.

On my most recent trip to Barcelona, I had the pleasure of staying at the Renaissance Barcelona Fira Hotel, which was undoubtedly one of the coolest hotels I’ve ever experienced. We were upgraded to a spacious suite, which elevated our stay to new heights, quite literally.

This hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the rooftop bar, while the glass elevators and various viewpoints on each floor are adorned with lush greenery, including hanging planters, potted trees, and other botanical features that create a natural and serene ambiance. Although the hotel is a bit further from the city center, the metro station is a mere 5-minute walk away, and it takes just a short ride to reach the heart of the city.

How to get to Barcelona

Getting to Barcelona is a breeze with multiple transportation options:

  • By Air: Fly into El Prat Airport from various destinations worldwide. Book flights through Expedia, Kiwi , or Hopper. One you arrive you can grab a taxi, take a bus/train to city centre or pre book your transport ahead of time.
  • By Train: Enjoy a scenic journey on high-speed trains from cities like Madrid or Valencia. You can book tickets easily on Omio
  • By Bus: Economical and convenient, buses from companies like FlixBus or Eurolines connect Barcelona with European cities. Book tickets on Omio or BusBud
  • By Car: Explore at your own pace by renting a car from international companies like Hertz or Avis. Major highways connect Barcelona with neighboring regions.

What to see in Barcelona 

  • Sagrada Família – The story of Sagrada Família begins over a century ago, when Antoni Gaudí was commissioned to design the church. Despite facing numerous setbacks and challenges over the years – including Gaudí’s untimely death and the destruction caused by the Spanish Civil War – the people of Barcelona remained committed to seeing the project through to completion. Today, the basilica remains unfinished, but its beauty and significance continue to inspire visitors from around the world. Book entry ticket here 
  • Park Güell  – Designed by Antoni Gaudí in the early 1900s, the park was originally intended as a housing development but was later converted into a public park. Today, visitors can explore the park’s winding paths, vibrant mosaic sculptures, and intricate stonework, all of which reflect Gaudí’s unique style and his commitment to blending art and nature. Book entry ticket here 
  • Casa Milà –  one of Antoni Gaudí’s most iconic and innovative works due to its unique sculptural form, undulating facade, and innovative use of materials, such as wrought iron, stone, and glass. Casa Milà is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Catalan modernism. Book entry ticket here 
  • Casa Batlló – it was originally designed by architect Emilio Sala Cortés but later redesigned by Antoni Gaudí. The building’s most distinctive features are its sculptural facade, which resembles a colourful dragon, and its interior, which is characterised by organic shapes, natural light, and imaginative details. Book ticket here 
  • Casa Vicens  – designed by Antoni Gaudí and completed in 1885, this building is known for its distinctive use of vibrant colours, ornate tilework, and incorporation of Islamic and Orientalist design elements. Book entry ticket here 
  • The Gothic Quarter – is one of the most fascinating neighbourhoods in Barcelona with its winding alleys, charming plazas, and stunning Gothic architecture. The Gothic Quarter is also home to some of Barcelona’s best restaurants and bars. Book walking tour here 
  • La Rambla – is an iconic boulevard in the heart of Barcelona that is known for its vibrant atmosphere, bustling street performers, and colourful street vendors
  • Catedral de Barcelona – impressive Gothic-style cathedral located in the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. With its soaring spires and ornate facade, the cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a symbol of Barcelona’s rich cultural heritage. Book ticket here 
  • Ciutadella Park – located in the heart of Barcelona, this expansive green space spans over 70 acres and boasts a wide array of attractions, including a large boating lake, a charming waterfall, and numerous sculptures and monuments. The park is also home to the Barcelona Zoo, which houses over 7,000 animals from more than 400 species.
  • Montjuïc hill – home to an array of attractions that cater to different interests like Montjuïc Botanic Garden ( gardens are home to over 2,000 plant species, including Mediterranean and Canary Island flora, and provide stunning views of the city skyline and the Mediterranean Sea ), The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc (  fountain that  puts on a mesmerising light and music show ) and Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (  located in the grand Palau Nacional, this  museum is home to an extensive collection of Catalan art, ranging from Romanesque to Modernism. )

Other fun things to do in Barcelona

What to do in Barcelona when its raining

What to eat in Barcelona 

Barcelona is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of delicious and unique culinary experiences. Here are some must-try dishes and foods when visiting Barcelona:

  1. Paella – a traditional Spanish rice dish made with saffron, seafood, and meat.
  2. Tapas – small plates of various dishes, such as patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce) and croquettes.
  3. Churros – deep-fried dough pastry that is often dipped in hot chocolate.
  4. Iberico ham – a cured ham that is thinly sliced and served as a tapa or in a sandwich.
  5. Escalivada – a dish made with grilled eggplant, red peppers, and onions.
  6. Crema Catalana – a creamy dessert similar to crème brûlée.
  7. Cava – a sparkling wine that is produced in Catalonia.
  8. Fideuà – a dish similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice.
  9. Bombas – a type of tapa that is a mix of mashed potatoes, meat, and spices, fried until crispy.
  10. Seafood – with its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled octopus, squid ink paella, and seafood platters.

Visiting Barcelona soon? Here are few useful links:

Book a tour or tickets on GetYourGuide , Klook ,  Viator, Tiquets

Book your hotel at Booking.com , Expedia or Hooper 

Book a Sim Card at Airalo

Book your insurance at Visitors Coverage

Rent a car or motorcycle at RentalCars.com or BikesBooking

Book an airport taxi at Kiwi Taxi, Get Transfer or HolidayTaxi 

Book transport like Bus or Train on Omio, Kiwi or BusBud 

Book an airport lounge pass at Priority Pass UK, Priority Pass USA 

Book a place to store your luggage at Radical Storage

Barcelona truly is a city that has something for everyone. From the awe-inspiring architecture of Antoni Gaudí to the bustling markets and beaches, Barcelona is a destination that is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

I hope this post has inspired you to add Barcelona to your travel bucket list and that it has given you some ideas for your next adventure. And if you’ve already visited this vibrant city and have a hidden gem or a favourite spot that you think we should know about, please share it with us in the comments below!

So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to explore the beauty and charm of Barcelona. Until next time, happy travels!

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