Barcelona Guide
Why visit Barcelona?
There are a number of reasons why Barcelona is my favourite, most visited travel destination… Since my first visit to Barcelona back in 2018, I’ve been captivated by everything the city has to offer. Barcelona is a city with so much history, rich in culture, filled with countless cafes and restaurants, beautiful architecture and endless sunny days. Barcelona is somewhere you can have amazing beach days to studying in a cafe or have wild night out.
Barcelona can really cater to everyone and you’re bound to have a good time.
Money
In Barcelona you’ll be using the Euro currency. While Barcelona is a very modern city in Europe, you’ll want to bring cash because some of the markets and restaurants don’t have credit machines. That being said, many of the restaurants and stores do have credit card machines so you’ll be able to use your credit card.
Getting Around & Transportation
Getting into the city from the airport (BCN): Barcelona has a great transportation system weather you are taking a taxi, Uber, bus or train - they are very reliable and found everywhere.
By train: This will take you directly into the city and will take approximately 25 minutes, the RENFE train costs 4.50 Euro.
By bus: The Aerobus is used to take people to and from the airport. A one-way costs 5.90 Euro and a round trip of costs 10.20 Euro with multiple stops into the city which takes approximately 40 minutes.
Taxi: Cost approximately 40 Euros.
Getting around in the city: Barcelona is a large city but it’s very easy to navigate and can even be done by foot.
Walking: I personally love and enjoy walking around Barcelona, with its scenic routes and beautiful buildings, I’ll often find myself walking over taking the metro or bus!
Metro & Bus: You can buy tickets of 2, 3, 4, 5 days. These tickets can be used towards the TMB bus and metro! Note that buses run later than the metro! So, if you will be out late, a bus is what you will be taking.
*Note: Make sure to wave the buses down. If you don’t, they will not stop for you at the bus stop.
Things To Do & Places To Visit
Explore all things Gaudi like Park Güell (free before 8 am), La Sagrada Familia, and Casa Batlló.
Walk through the Gothic Quarter and El Born
Visit the famous Wall of Freedom (Kiss wall)
Hike up to El Bunkers where you’ll have a view of the entire city from the top.
Go the the Barcelona beach
Palau de la Musica
Visit the marina where you’ll seeing numerous boats by the water
Have a drink by the boardwalk
Take a paella making class (a traditional Spanish dish) - This class I took was amazing !
Day trip to Montserrat
Sunset boat trip! Great way to experience Barcelona from the sea.
Accommodation
During my time in Barcelona, I have stayed in Airbnb’s and hostels. There are so many Airbnbs, hotels, and hostel options that range from budget friendly accommodations to luxury ones. My favourite locations are close to Sagrada Familia, around La Rambla and the neighbourhood of Passeig de Gràcia!
I’ve stayed at The Rodamon Hostel three times and loved it! It’s definitely not a party hostel – but there is a large common room which allows you to meet other fellow travellers, a kitchenette, clean washrooms, and nice bedrooms in a beautiful building in a very safe neighbourhood.
If you’re going to Barcelona with a big group, I recommend this Airbnb! It was large and located about a 3 minute walk to Sagrada Familia!
This cute Airbnb is located by the Barceloneta.
Located in my favourite neighbourhood, this spacious Airbnb has everything in more! Close to shops, restaurants, metros and in walking distance to everything!
If you want to stay in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, this Airbnb is perfect for you.
You can never go wrong with an accommodation with a terrace where you can enjoy food and drinks before exploring the city!
Vintage Airbnb located 2 minutes from Sagrada Familia.
Right by the beach, this Airbnb Plus with be sure to exceed your expectations.
Video of the Airbnb on Tik Tok: Airbnb with a Balcony and perfect view of the city.
Where To Eat
Flax & Kale : Mainly plant-based restaurant with a large menu from avocado toast, smoothie bowls, soups, tacos and bowls! Flax & Kale
Brunch and Cake: Not only is the food here amazing but the food is presented so beautifully! Definitely an “Instagrammable” spot.
Surf House: A summery restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating where you can find smoothies, pancakes, bowls and burgers.
Honest Greens : If you’re looking for a nourishing salad or bowl this is the spot! Large menu and incredibly delicious
Lolita Barceloneta : Nice little restaurant by the beach with drinks, tapas and paella.
La Boqueria Market: A must when visiting Barcelona - this food market sells some of the freshest fruit, vegetables and seafood.
El Nacional: A restaurant with a great atmosphere where you’ll find the best Iberian foods and wines.
Tapas 24: Some of the best Tapas in Barcelona! Great service and location.
Cal Pep: Spanish food, great service, amazing dessert!
Restaurante Julieta’s: Beautiful restaurant by the beach with a really chic interior - great tapas!
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