Barcelona Trip: an Expert Guide

Barcelona: the heart of Catalonia

Barcelona is a fantastic destination for a lot of tourists, if you are looking for mediterranean culture, great weather, fantastic nightlife, and open people Barcelona is the city for you. In this page you will finde the best articles so you can organize your perfect trip to the capital of Catalonia. 

Also renowned for its architectural wonders, including Antoni Gaudí’s iconic creations like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, the city beckons architecture enthusiasts from around the globe.

Posts

Barcelona

Experience the vibrant energy and rich culture of Barcelona, a city located on the Mediterranean coast of Spain. Visit the stunning architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudi, including the famous Sagrada Familia, stroll through the charming streets of the Gothic Quarter, and enjoy the delicious cuisine and lively nightlife. Barcelona is a city that will captivate you with its beauty and charm.

What is Barcelona known for

Barcelona city

Barcelona is known by many for being the city of the Football Club Barcelona, where Messi played for many years, other know it for the Olympic Games of 1992, and other know Barcelona for the culture, the architecture, and the parties.

Barcelona’s rich cultural tapestry, celebrated through museums, theaters, and festivals like La Mercè, immerses visitors in a vibrant Catalan experience.

The city’s Mediterranean charm extends to its picturesque beaches and beach-side culture, while its culinary scene entices with Catalan delights, from traditional tapas to innovative gastronomy. Barcelona’s bustling streets, historic Gothic Quarter, and dynamic nightlife offer a lively atmosphere that appeals to all ages and interests. Its cosmopolitan, diverse environment fosters a sense of inclusion and belonging, making it a beloved destination for both tourists and residents.

Barcelona is known for many things but me as a local would highlight the following aspects:

  • Culture: It is an incredible city to go to theaters, cinemas, museums, improve show, and many other cultural facilities and activities.
  • Architecture: Barcelona is very famous for the architecture, not only for the squared districts of the Eixample called 
  • People: The people of Barcelona are very friendly and welcoming, the majority of young people at least know a bit of English and will receive you with open arms.
  • Nightlife: the parties and festivals are fantastic there is a great variety of clubs, bars and speak easy. Definitely one of the best attributes of the city. Check out our article on where to find the best nightlife in the Catalonia’s capital city.
  • Restaurants: There are a great variety and quality of restaurants, you will find many high quality and moderately cheap restaurants in the city.

Why you should visit Barcelona

Barcelona’s unique blend of history, art, cuisine, and relaxation creates an unforgettable destination. Its architectural marvels, cultural richness, and beautiful beaches cater to diverse interests, while its festive spirit, historic charm, and shopping districts provide something for everyone. This cosmopolitan city’s vibrant atmosphere and warm Mediterranean hospitality make it a cherished place for exploration and discovery, where the past seamlessly merges with the present, leaving an indelible mark on those who visit.

In my opinion  it is a must see city, Spain is a very diverse country and Barcelona is one of the must visit cities, along Madrid, Seville, and other fantastic cities.

gaudi architecture

Why is the Architecture of Barcelona famous?

In 1859, the Catalan architect Ildefonso Cerdà began the project of arranging a large part of the city of Barcelona into hundreds of small squares. With this idea, he sought to break the pattern of the disorderly European city that had existed since the Middle Ages to create a whole new panorama for architecture in Europe and the world.

There are great pieces of art in the form of building, particularly the works of Antoni Gaudí. The stunning and unconventional buildings, such as the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, draw visitors from around the world who are intrigued by Gaudí’s visionary designs.

Where is Barcelona

Barcelona is located in the northeastern part of Spain, on the Mediterranean coast. It is the capital and largest city of the Catalonia region and is situated in the province of Barcelona within Catalonia. The city enjoys a prime coastal location, offering beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea, and it is known for its pleasant Mediterranean climate.

Barcelona is located in the northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula in Europe. It is situated on the Mediterranean coast, facing the Mediterranean Sea. Spain, the country in which Barcelona is located, is part of southwestern Europe, and it shares its borders with several European countries, including France, Andorra, and Portugal. Barcelona itself is in the Catalonia region of Spain, which is known for its distinctive culture, language, and autonomy within the country. It is one of the major cities in Spain and serves as a significant cultural, economic, and tourist hub in Europe.

  • Here you have a map of Barcelona and other renown spots in Catalonia that you should definitely check out.

How far is Barcelona from Madrid

Barcelona and Madrid are two major cities in Spain, and they are located in different regions of the country. Barcelona is in the northeastern part of Spain, along the Mediterranean coast, in the Catalonia region. Madrid, on the other hand, is located in the central part of Spain, and it is the capital of the country. The distance between these two cities is approximately 620 kilometers (385 miles) in a straight line.

To travel from Barcelona to Madrid, you have several transportation options:

  1. High-Speed Train (AVE): The AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) train service connects Barcelona and Madrid efficiently. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, making it one of the quickest ways to travel between the two cities. Trains depart regularly from Barcelona’s Sants station and arrive at Madrid’s Atocha station. It’s a comfortable and convenient option for travelers.
  2. Flights: There are numerous daily flights between Barcelona’s El Prat Airport and Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport. The flight itself is relatively short, but when you consider travel time to and from the airports and security checks, the total time might be similar to the train journey. However, it can be a good option if you’re in a hurry or if you prefer flying.
  3. Bus: Long-distance buses, operated by companies like ALSA and FlixBus, connect Barcelona and Madrid. The journey by bus takes longer than the train or flight, typically around 7 to 8 hours, but it can be a more budget-friendly option for travelers.
  4. Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and take the highway (AP-7 and AP-2) that connects Barcelona and Madrid. The drive can take around 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Keep in mind that tolls might apply on some sections of the highway.

The choice of transportation depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule. The high-speed train is often the most popular choice due to its speed and convenience, but all options have their advantages depending on your needs.

Catalan Flag

catalan flag

The flag of Catalonia, also known as the Senyera, consists of four vertical stripes. The colors of the Catalan flag are typically red and yellow. Specifically, the flag consists of four red stripes alternating with five yellow stripes, with the upper-left corner (hoist side) featuring a blue triangle pointing towards the flag’s center, known as the “Estelada” version.

However, the most commonly used version of the Catalan flag is the one with red and yellow stripes, without the blue triangle (the one on the picture above). These colors are significant symbols of Catalonia’s cultural and historical identity.

History of the flag of Catalonia

The history of the Catalan flag, known as the Senyera, is deeply intertwined with the historical and political evolution of Catalonia. Originating in medieval times, the Senyera began as a simple red flag, symbolizing the region’s distinct identity within the Crown of Aragon. During the period when Catalonia was part of the Crown of Aragon (12th to 18th centuries), the flag often featured a yellow or gold crown in the upper-left corner to signify Catalonia’s allegiance to the Aragonese monarchy.

However, the Senyera’s appearance underwent changes during Catalonia’s complex historical journey. In the 18th century, as Catalonia’s autonomy was curtailed by the Spanish monarchy’s Nueva Planta decrees, the flag lost its royal crown but retained its red and yellow stripes. The flag’s symbolism shifted over time, reflecting Catalonia’s evolving political status.

In the 20th century, the Senyera became closely associated with the Catalan independence movement, particularly during the Second Spanish Republic (1931-1939). During this period, a variant known as the Estelada emerged, featuring a blue triangle and a white star in the center. The Estelada became a symbol of Catalan nationalism and aspirations for independence.

After the death of General Francisco Franco in 1975 and Spain’s transition to democracy, Catalonia regained a measure of autonomy, and the Senyera without the blue triangle was restored as the official flag of the Autonomous Community of Catalonia within the Kingdom of Spain. Today, the Senyera continues to represent Catalonia’s rich history, culture, and its ongoing discussions about autonomy and independence.

Which airport for Barcelona

The airport of Barcelona is called Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–el Prat Airport for more information on the airport check out the official website.

In Catalonia there are other airports which might be closer to your destination. To go to Barcelona definitely go to El Prat Airport, but if you want to go to the Costa Brava go to the Girona Airport or if you want to go to the Lleida province, go to Alguaire Airport, but these airports do not have as many flight destinations as the Barcelona airport, but if you can these smaller airports are way better, for getting in an out quickly and without waiting a long time in cues.

Here is a map of the Airports of Catalonia:

How do I get from the airport to the city center, and what are the transportation options?

I would recommend taking a bus or a taxi/cabify/uber. The train is a viable option, as the Airport, el Prat-Josep Terradellas does have a train station but it is quite slow. It works great if you want to go to Sants station in the center of the city.

My prefer options are taking a taxi/cabify/uber, it will cost you about 20€ from the airport to the center of the city. The other viable option is the bus. Just outside the airport there are buses the go to Barcelona, you can take one of these and hop out at Plaça España, which is a very centric spot, and from there go to your hotel or destination.

Why Adventurer atlas?

Best Trips Feedback

We only post about experiences that we have lived first hand. Everything that you will find in this blog will be raw information compiled from traveling ourselfs.

30+ Trips Done

We have been able to travel a lot these past years. So sharing what we have learnt to other travelers is a priviledge for us.

Free Professional Advise

We are not biased by brands, if you have any doubts about a trip please feel free to contact us, and we will give you our best tips so you can get the most out of your trip.

What is the best time to visit Barcelona in terms of weather and crowds?

The best time to visit Barcelona in my opinion is Spring. In this time of the year, the weather is nice, its not to cold and not to hot, you can make trips to natural wonders and parks near Barcelona like Sant Llorenç del Munt i l’Obac, Collserola or Montseny. Also the great flock of tourists go to Barcelona in Summer so you will find less people at the museums and touristic spots in general.

In my opinion May/June is the best time of the year, you can start to go to the beaches in early June, and don’t burn your skin like in August. Plus the prices will be way less high in late Spring early Summer, than in July and August. So if you are thinking of organizing a trip to Barcelona and you have free days in the end of Spring, book your flights!

If you want to avoid the high prices of Barcelona, you can stay in a city nearby and take a bus or train to the city center. There are a lot of great public transportation systems and work fairly well. Do not expect the Japanese punctuality but the public transport works well.

Also check out our favorite travel backpacks that we have carried in our trips that we recommend for traveling lightweight.

Recommended Travel Backpacks
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40LHanples Large Travel Laptop Backpack for WomenQT&QY 45L Military Tactical Backpack
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L Hanples Large Travel Laptop Backpack for Women QT&QY 45L Military Tactical Backpack

What are the must-visit attractions and landmarks in Barcelona?

Sagrada Família is by far the most known and visited attraction if we don’t count the stadium of FC Barcelona, and now that the Barça stadium is being rebuilt they are playing in an old stadium in Montjuic.

If I had to make a list of the most visited spots, these would be my guesses:

  1. Sagrada Família: This breathtaking basilica, designed by Antoni Gaudí, is one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona. Its unique architecture and intricate facades make it a must-see. For more information check out our article on the Sagrada Família.
  2. Park Güell: Another Gaudí masterpiece, Park Güell is a whimsical public park with colorful mosaics, unique structures, and panoramic views of the city.
  3. Casa Batlló: Gaudí’s influence can be seen in this modernist building known for its artistic and imaginative design.
  4. Casa Milà (La Pedrera): This unconventional apartment building designed by Gaudí is known for its undulating facades and rooftop terrace.
  5. The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): Explore the historic heart of Barcelona with its narrow medieval streets, historic buildings, and the Barcelona Cathedral.

Also one of the most visited streets, La Rambla is a must visit in my opinion. But be careful in this crowded places as the pickpockets tend to target tourists in this spots with a lot of people close to each other. If you have everything secured and not easily accessible nothing will happen. 

The city of Barcelona has a lot of attractions, these are five more that are worth visiting in my opinion:

  • Barcelona Beaches: Enjoy the sun and sea at the city’s urban beaches, including Barceloneta Beach and Bogatell Beach. If you can travel north to the Costa Brava where the beaches are way more beautiful, the trip is certainly worth it. For more information check out Costa Brava.
  • Picasso Museum: Housing one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, this museum is a must for art enthusiasts.
  • Tibidabo Amusement Park: Located on Mount Tibidabo, this historic amusement park offers rides, stunning views, and a charming, vintage atmosphere.
  • Palau de la Música Catalana: A stunning modernist concert hall, known for its ornate interiors and beautiful stained glass.

Is it necessary to speak Catalan or Spanish, or is English widely spoken?

Everyone in Catalonia speaks or knows hot to speak Spanish, Catalan is the language of Catalonia and the Catalonian countries (Mallorca, Valencia, Menorca, Ibiza, Andorra, a part of Aragon, and Alguer (Cerdenya)). English is known mostly by everyone expect the older generations. It is true that the level of English that you will find in Spain, and Catalonia will not be as high as the northern countries of Europe.

Speaking English you will get by in Barcelona, as nowadays many people speak it, and the people are very used to tourists speaking English. If you want to stay in the city for some time, some knowledge of Spanish will be very useful, plus is very easy to learn. Catalan is a bit more difficult to learn, but the local population will be very pleased if you try to speak to them in Catalan.

If you want to live in Catalonia, speaking Spanish is a must but I would also highly recommend learning Catalan as it is the mother tongue of a large percentage of the population, and it will be more natural to become friends with people if you speak their mother tongue.

Are there any safety considerations or areas to avoid in Barcelona?

In general Barcelona is a safe city, but as all major cities there are the expected pickpockets on the crowded spots looking for disoriented tourists. There are good districts and then not so good districts, these diversity as is in other European cities is due to the poverty or average salary of the people of some districts, which then get flooded with drugs, and then with criminals.

Neighborhoods to avoid

Here are some neighborhoods that we recommend you avoid or simply be aware of your surroundings if you go trough them.

  • El Raval: While it has improved in recent years, El Raval was once known for higher crime rates and social challenges. It’s become safer due to ongoing urban regeneration efforts, but visitors should exercise caution, especially at night.
  • Besòs i el Maresme: Located in the northeastern part of the city, this district has faced economic and social challenges, although it’s also been the focus of revitalization projects.
  • La Mina: This neighborhood in the municipality of Sant Adrià de Besòs, just north of Barcelona, has faced socioeconomic difficulties and has been associated with higher crime rates.
  • Nou Barris: While not necessarily “the worst,” this district in the northern part of the city has experienced social issues and has a reputation for being a less touristy area.

Tips for a safe trip

Also here are some recommendation or tips for a safety trip:

  1. Pickpocketing: Barcelona is known for pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas like La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, and public transportation. Be cautious of your belongings, use anti-theft bags or pouches, and avoid carrying excessive valuables or large sums of cash. Keep important documents, such as passports and IDs, in a secure place.
  2. Street Scams: Watch out for street scams, including distractions or people trying to engage you in conversation to divert your attention. Be wary of anyone offering unsolicited help or directions.
  3. Late-Night Safety: While Barcelona’s nightlife is vibrant, exercise caution when enjoying the nightlife, especially in areas like the Barri Gòtic. Stick to well-lit, populated streets, and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas late at night.
  4. Beach Safety: While Barcelona’s beaches are popular, be cautious of your belongings when enjoying the sun and sea. Don’t leave valuables unattended while you swim.
  • Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers in Spain. The general emergency number is 112, and you can also dial 091 for police assistance and 061 for medical emergencies.

Hot Topics