Barcelona: The complete travel guide

Barcelona: The complete travel guide

Barcelona: The complete travel guide. Image: SBA73

BARCELONA is one of the world´s most famous cities for travel for everything from its Gaudi architecture to its Michelin starred restaurants.

But whether it´s your first time in the city or you´re a regular visitor, a travel guide to finding all those Barcelona hidden gems can always come in handy.

That´s why the Euro Weekly News has put together this easy-to-use Barcelona guide, giving you information on everything from the city´s must-see sights to its best hotels and even how to travel there on a budget.

Contents

Introduction to Barcelona travel
Image: Dapictures_team

Barcelona travel: A quick overview

  • Where is Barcelona? Barcelona is located in the northeast of Spain on the Mediterranean in a region called Catalonia
  • Languages spoken: Barcelona has two official languages, Catalan and Spanish.  English is also widely spoken in many tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Euro (€)
  • Time zone: Barcelona is on Central European Standard Time and GMT (+1)
  • Getting to Barcelona: The city has its own airport, Barcelona Josep Tarradellas Barcelona El Prat Airport, located just 9.3 miles from the centre of Barcelona

Things to do in Barcelona

The city has some of the best architecture, museums and parks in the world, and we have put together this guide to some of the must-visit sights for travel to Barcelona, including one for all the sports fans out there, the FC Barcelona Museum.

And of course no guide to Barcelona would be complete without mentioning one of the city´s most famous names, architect Antoni Gaudi, the mastermind behind some of the most beautiful- and unique- buildings in the world.

That´s why we have started with this roundup of the top 10 buildings to visit in Barcelona, including the best of the houses Gaudi designed in the city, Casa Batllo, Casa Mila, Palau Güell and Casa Vicens, and of course, his spectacular Basilica de la Sagrada Familia.

10 of the best buildings to visit in Barcelona

Barcelona is perhaps most famous for its stunning architecture and here is our pick of the city´s top 10 must-see architecture attractions when you travel there.

1. Basilica de la Sagrada Familia

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is Barcelona´s most famous attraction.  Commissioned in 1882, this Antoni Gaudi building was never finished in the architect´s lifetime and construction is still ongoing today.

Located in the Eixample district, its 18 famous spires will be a familiar sight to many but it´s the basilica´s ornate vaulted ceilings that also make this one of the world´s most loved architectural attractions.

Open: Monday to Sunday from 9am to 6pm

Address: C / Mallorca, 401, 08013

Price: Tickets to the Sagrada Familia cost from €26 for adults, and discounts are available for students, children and over-65s.

Basilica de la Sagrada Familia
Image: SBA73

2. Casa Batllo

Completely refurbished by Gaudi in 1904 as a private residence for textile manufacturer Josep Batllo i Casanovas, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on number 43 on Paseo de Gracia in the Eixample district, just down the road from the Michelin starred Moments Restaurant.

Originally built for Emili Sala Cortes in 1877, the building was bought by Casanovas in 1903 before he employed Gaudi to refurbish it.

Famed for its use of colour, this stunning building pays tribute to the legend of St George and the dragon, with the roof clearly shaped like a dragon´s back.

Open: Monday to Thursday  from 9am to 6.30pm and Friday to Sunday from 9am to 8pm

Address: Passeig de Gracia, 43, 08007

Price: Tickets to Casa Batllo cost from €35 for adults but discounts are available for children, over-65s, the disabled and certain professions.

Casa Batllo
Image: Bernard Gagnon

3. Palace of Catalan Music

The beautiful Palau de la Musica Catalana was built between 1905 and 1908 as a concert hall.

Designed by the architect Lluis Domenech i Montaner, this art nouveau building is the only concert hall of its architectural style to be given UNESCO-world heritage site status and is famed for its stunning rooms.

For those looking to get in some music while in Barcelona, the Palace of Catalan Music still functions as an auditorium, hosting concerts on everything from Vivaldi to Puccini.

Open: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 3.30pm

Address: C/Palau de la Musica 4-6, 08003

Price: Tickets to the Palau de la Musica Catalana cost from €12 for a self-guided tour and discounts are available for the disabled.  Children under 10 visit for free.

Palace of Catalan Music
Image: Palace of Catalan Music

4. Casa Mila

Another Gaudi UNESCO World Heritage site, Casa Mila, known as La Pedrera (meaning ´the stone quarry´), was built between 1906 and 1912 and was the last private residence the architect designed.

The building was commissioned by Pere Mila and his wife Roser Segimon and is famous for its undulating stone facade and twisting wrought iron balconies designed by Josep Maria Jujol.

Open: Monday to Sunday from 9am to 6.30pm

Address: Passeig de la Gracia, 92, 08008

Price: Tickets to Casa Mila cost from €24 for an adult and discounts are available for students, children, over-65s and the disabled.

Casa Mila
Image: Mugniotv

5. Palau Güell

Designed in 1886 by Gaudi for patron of the arts Eusebi Güell, this mansion contains a stunning great hall that was used by its owner for poetry readings and private concerts.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the building was the home of the Güell i Lopez family until they moved to Park Güell.

This luxurious building is located on Nou de la Rambla in the Raval district and is well worth a visit.

Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5.30pm

Address: C/ Nou de la Rambla, 3-5, 08001

Palau Guell
Image: Simon Burchell

Price: Tickets cost €5 but are free for teachers, journalists, and other groups.  Entry is free on the first Sunday of every month.

6. Casa Amatller

Designed in the Modernisme style by architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch, this beautiful home was built between 1898 and 1900 as a house for chocolatier Antoni Amatller.

Famed for its ridged facade, the building was worked on by some of the finest artists and craftsmen in Barcelona at the time, including sculptors Eusebi Arnau and Alfons Jujol.

Open: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm

Address: Passeig de la Gracia, 41, 08007

Price: Tickets to Casa Amatller cost from €12.  Discounts are available for children and those under seven go free.

Casa Amatller
Image: RepubliCAT

7. Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes

Founded by Queen Elisenda de Montcada in 1326 for the Order of Saint Clare, the Monastery of Pedralbes is one of Barcelona´s oldest buildings and located on the slopes of the Sant Pere Martir.

The monastery was used as housing for a community of nuns, mostly members of noble families.

It is now a museum housing art from the convent.

Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6.30pm

Address: Baixada del Monestir, 9, 08034

Price: Tickets to the Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes cost €5 for adults but discounts are available for children, over-65s, and the disabled.  There are also several free open days at the convent.

Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes
Image: Jaume Meneses

8. Casa Vicens

Considered to be Gaudi´s first major design, Casa Vicens is the first house the architect created in Barcelona.

A Modernisme building commissioned by stock market dealer Manel Vicens y Montaner, it is located in the Gracia neighbourhood of Barcelona.

Built between 1883 and 1885, the building shows influences from Moorish architecture and is famous for its use of natural elements in its design.

Open: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday from 10am to 3pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 7pm

Address: Carrer de les Carolines, 20-26, 08012

Price: Tickets to Casa Vicens cost from €16 for adults.  Discounts are available for children, students, over 65s, the disabled.  Children under 12 go free.

Image: Canaan

9. Cathedral of Barcelona

Nestled in the Gothic Quarter, construction of the Cathedral of Barcelona commenced in 1298 on the site of a Romanesque temple.

The work was carried out in three stages over 150 years and the gothic cathedral now receives three million visitors a year.

Famed for its neo-gothic style and raised high altar, the cathedral also contains a cross said to date from the time of the Battle of Lepanto in its side Chapel of the Holy Sacrament and of the Holy Christ of Lepanto.

Open: Monday to Friday from 10.30am to 6.30pm and Saturday from 10.30am to 5pm

Address: Pla de la Seu, 08002

Price: Tickets to the Cathedral of Barcelona  cost from €9.  Children aged under 12 go free.

Cathedral of Barcelona
Image: Fernando

10. Botanical Gardens

Built in 1999 by architects Carlos Ferrater and Josep Lluis Canosa, Barcelona´s botanical gardens follow a historical tradition in the city, with the first botanical gardens in Barcelona dating back to the 1500s.

Situated on the slopes of Montjuic Park, the Jardi Botanic de Barcelona offers visitors species of plants from five areas across the world as well as some stunning modern architecture.

The gardens also hosts several unusual species, including the Mexican Blue Palm.

Open: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm

Address: Carrer Doctor Font I Quer, 2, 08038

Price: Tickets to the Botanical Gardens cost €5 and discounts are available for those aged over 65 and large groups.  Children under 16 and the disabled go free.  Entry is free on Sundays from 3pm and on the first Sunday of every month.

Image: Valerie et Agnes

10 of the best museums in Barcelona

Barcelona has some of the most famous museums in the world.  And if you are planning to travel to Barcelona here are 10 of the best.

1. Picasso Museum

Containing 4,000 works by Pablo Picasso, this museum has an extensive collection of the artist´s early works.

Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 7pm

Address: Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003

Price: Tickets to the Picasso Muesum cost €17 for adults and discounts are available, including for students, over-65s and children.  Entry is free the first Sunday of every month.

Picasso Museum
Image: Picasso Museum

2. FC Barcelona Museum

Sports fans will known Barcelona for being one of the world´s most famous cities for football.

Its team, FC Barcelona, is one of the most successful in the world, winning 75 national trophies since being founded in 1899.

Known as Barca, FC Barcelona competes in La Liga, the top level of Spanish football its stadium is Camp Nou.

Hosting some of the club´s most famous trophies, the FC Barcelona museum is located in the Camp Nou stadium and attracts 1.2 million visitors a year.

Open: Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm and Sunday from 10am to 3pm

Address: C. d´Aristides Maillol, 08028

Price: Tickets to the FC Barcelona Museum costs from €26 for adults for a stadium tour and museum visit.  Discounts are available for children under 11, over-70s and residents of Catalonia.

FC Barcelona Museum
Image: FC Barcelona

3. Fundacio Joan Miro

Founded in 1968 by Joan Miro, this modern art museum hosts some of the most famous works by the Spanish artist, as well as artist Andre Masson.

Open: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 10am to 6pm

Address: Parc de Montjuïc, 08038

Price: Tickets to Fundacio Joan Miro cost €13 for adults and discounts are available for students and over-65s.

Image: Amador Alvarez

4. Gaudi House Museum

Located in Park Güell, this historic house museum contains objects designed by Antoni Gaudi, who stayed here between 1906 and 1925.

Open: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm

Address: Park Güell, Ctra. Del Carmel, 23A, 08013

Price: Tickets to the Gaudi House Museum the museum cost around €5.50.

Gaudi House Museum
Image: Canaan

5. Museu Nacional d´Art de Catalunya

This Italian-style palace museum houses Romanesque and Catalan art works from the 1100s to the 1900s.

Open: Tuesday to Saturday from  from 10am to 6pm and Sunday from 10am to 3pm

Address: Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, 08038

Price: Tickets to the Museum Nacional d´Art de Catalunya cost from €12 for an adult.  Discounts are available for students.  Children under 16 and over-65s go free.

Museu Nacional d´Art de Catalunya
Image: Jvhertum

6. MACBA: Museu d´Art Contemporani

Located in Barcelona´s Raval neighbourhood, MACBA offers art and exhibits from across the last century.  It also has a library, bar, and themed visits led by artists.

The Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA) opened to the public in 1995 and is now internationally famous for its contemporary art.

The history of the museum dates back to 1959, when art critic Alexandre Cirici Pellicer championed the idea of creating a contemporary art museum in Barcelona.

The museum now hosts work by artists including Ignsai Aballi and Anni Albers.

Open: Monday to Friday, 11am to 7.30pm, Saturday from 10am to 8pm and Sunday from 10am to 3pm

Address: Plaça dels Angels, 1, 08001

Price: Tickets to MACBBA cost €11 for an adult and discounts are available for children, over-65s and the disabled.

MACBA
Image: Zarateman

7. Fundacio Antoni Tapies

This museum and cultural centre located on Carrer d´Arago was created in 1984 by artist Antoni Tapies and mainly hosts a collection of his works.

It is housed in the building of the Montaner i Simon publishing house, designed by architect Lluis Domenech i Montaner.

Open: Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 7pm and Sunday from 10am to 3pm

Address: C/ d´Arago, 255, 08007

Price: Tickets to Fundacio Antoni Tapies cost €8 for adults, while discounts are available for children and over-65s and children under 16 go free.

Fundacio Antoni Tapies
Image: Fundacio Antoni Tapies

8. Museu de Xocolata

Everyone loves chocolate and Barcelona´s Museu de Xocolata offers visitors a look at the history of the sweet stuff, as well as activities and education services.

Created by the Barcelona Confectionery Guild and located in the former Sant Agusti monastery, the Chocolate Museum provides a journey through the history of chocolate.

Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 7pm

Address: Carrer del Comerç, 36, 08003

Price: Guided tours to the Museu de Xocolata cost €7.50 for adults.

Image: Tsk070

9. Virreina Centre de la Imatge

The headquarters of the Culture Institue and host to various exhibitions, the Virreina Centre de la Imatge is located on La Rambla, making it the perfect stop for anyone strolling along the famous street.

The building it is housed in the Virreina Palace, built between 1772 and 1778 for Manuel d’Amat i de Junyent by architect Carles Grau.

Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 8pm

Address: La Rambla, 99, 08002

Price: Entry to the museum is free.

Virreina Centre de Imatge
Image: Didier Descouens

10. Museu Can Framis. Fundacio Vila Casas

Offering around 300 modern works by Catalan sculptors, artists and photographers, the Museu Can Framis opened in 2009.

Can Framis has works on show dating from the 1960’s onwards and was originally owned by the Framis family.

Open: Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm and Sunday from 11am to 2pm

Address: Carrer de Roc Boronat, 116, 126, 08018

Price: Tickets to Museu Can Framis. Fundaio Vila Casas cost €5 for an adult and discounts are available for students, over-65s and the disabled.  Children under 12 go free.

Image: Fundacio Vila Casas

5 of the best parks in Barcelona

If nature is more your thing, or you just want to cut down on the costs of some of Barcelona´s more expensive attractions, the city´s parks are some of the most beautiful in the world.

Here is our pick of the best five that are worth visiting when you travel to Barcelona.

1. Park Güell

One of Barcelona´s most famous attractions, Park Güell is an Antoni Gaudi masterpiece.

Built between 1900 and 1914, Park Güell is 17 hectares and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984.

Entrance to the gardens is free, but tickets to Park Güell´s main attractions, including the Greek Theatre and Austria Gardens, cost €10 for adults.

Image: Adibalea

2. Ciutadella Park

The biggest park in Barcelona, Ciutadella houses Barcelona´s zoo and even offers rowing boat rental on its lake.

Located in Ciutat Vella, it features a large fountain designed by Josep Fontsere.

Image: Bernard Gagnon

3. Doctor Pla i Armengol Gardens

Located in Horta – Guinardo, the Doctor Pla i Armengol Gardens focus on biodiversity, with plants and pools designed to house insects, frogs, turtles, birds and bats.

Doctor Pla i Amengol Gardens
Image: Canaan

4. Tamarita Gardens

Located on a former private estate housing an impressive mansion, the gardens were deigned by architect and landscape artist Nicolau M. Rubio i Tuduri.

Full of decorative elements, the Jardins de la Tamarita host fountains, small ponds and some rare tree species.

Tamarita Gardens
Image: Enfo

5. Palau de les Heures Gardens

Set in the Horta – Guinardo district, the gardens surround a French-style chateau, Palau de les Heures.

The house was built between 1894 and 1898 by the architect Augusto Font Carreras.

Palau de les Heures Gardens
Image: Puigalder

Barcelona weather

Enjoying some great weather while you´re away is one of the (very) best bits of travel.  That´s why the Euro Weekly News has put together this quick guide to the weather in Barcelona.

What is the best time to visit Barcelona?

If all that restaurant and museum info has inspired you to visit the city, what is the best time to travel to Barcelona to get the best weather?

Barcelona has mild winters and warm summers, with an average of 78 rainy days per year, mainly in autumn and spring.

All this makes April to June the best time to visit Barcelona, when the temperatures are warm enough but not too hot, and before the major tourist season kicks in.

Barcelona weather by months

Across the city there is an average annual temperature of 21.2 °C  in the day and 15.1 °C at night.

Meanwhile, in the warmest month, August, the typical temperature ranges from 27 to 31 °C in the day, and around 23 °C at night.

December, January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures or around 15 °C in the day and 9 °C at night.

  • January: Barcelona in January sees little rain with 5 days on average, while temperatures average 16°C during the daytime
  • February:  February in Barcelona is not normally rainy with 4 days on average but temperatures are cooler with an average 14°C in the daytime
  • March:  Barcelona is normally warmer in March at an average of 15°C , although it is rainier with an average of 5 days
  • April:  April temperatures in Barcelona are considerably warmer at an average of 17°C, but the city is also rainier with an average of 6 days
  • May: Average temperatures in Barcelona in May are a warm 23°C , while it is also less rainy with an average of 4 days
  • June: Barcelona in June is warmer still, with an average temperature of 25°C  and only 3 days of rain
  • July:  July is one of Barcelona´s hottest months at an average temperature of 29°C  and 1 day of rain
  • August:  Barcelona in August is super hot at an average temperature of 30°C and two days of rain
  • September:  September temperatures in Barcelona are cooler at 26°C  and four days of rain
  • October:  Barcelona is generally warm in October with an average temperature of 24°C.  It can be rainy though with an average of 6 days of rain
  • November:  November is cooler in Barcelona with an average temperature of 14°C and also 5 days of rain
  • December: Barcelona in December also has an average temperature of 14°C  with 3 days of rain

Barcelona weather forecast

For the weather in Barcelona now, and for Barcelona 7-day weather, see our free Barcelona weather forecast below.

BARCELONA WEATHER


Barcelona travel tips

Travelling to a new city is always fun, but everywhere has its own customs and culture.

That´s why the Euro Weekly News has put together this guide to the best Barcelona travel tips, covering everything from local customs to how to travel there on a budget.

Image: Ccpapa

Tips for travelling in Barcelona

  • Book any  tickets in advance as many of the city´s most famous attractions book up early
  • Keep your belongings close to you as pickpocketing is a common crime
  • Travel out of high season to avoid busy crowds at some of Barcelona´s most famous areas
  • Stay centrally to make it easier to walk or take the metro to the most popular attractions
  • Remember that most places are closed on Sundays
  • Plan at least four days to visit Barcelona if you want to see most of its famous sights
  • Keep some cash on you as not everywhere will accept credit or debit card
  • Meals are generally served much later in Barcelona than other European countries, typically at around 2pm for lunch at 8pm for dinner
  • Most Barcelona shops close for a siesta, or l’hora de la migdiada, from 2pm to 5pm
  • Use the metro as one of the quickest ways to move around the city

How to travel to Barcelona on a budget

  • Use some of the city´s free museum days when many museums open for free on the first  Sunday of every month, including the Museu Picasso, Palau Güell and Jardi Botanic de Barcelona.
  • Visit other free attractions including the architecture in Barcelona´s Gothic Quarter
  • Get an Hola Barcelona Travel Card to use the city´s metro, bus and suburban rail networks as much as you want.  Cards are for 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours and cost from €16.30 for an adult.
  • Get a Barcelona Card for free access to museums and public transport, as well as discounts on tours and to other attractions.  The Barcelona Card costs from €46 for adults and €22 for children
  • Use the discounts available at many museums for students and the over-65s
  • Go on a free walking tour of Barcelona, with routes including a free tour of Gaudi´s most famous buildings.
  • Check out the city´s parks, which are both beautiful and free to visit
  • Buy any museums tickets online in advance as some offer online booking discounts
  • Avoid the busiest tourist areas for meals as these are generally the most expensive
  • Book hostels or budget hotels
  • Travel to Barcelona out of high season from May to August when hotels will and flights will generally be more expensive

Where to eat in Barcelona

As one of the most famous cities in the world, Barcelona has a stunning selection of restaurants and cafes offering everything from Michelin starred cuisine to local specialities.

And because food is such an important part of travel, we have put together this guide to the 10 best restaurants in Barcelona.

10 of the best Barcelona restaurants

1. La Patsa Lab

Created by Espedito Brunetto, this pasta restaurant wins rave reviews and is known for its delicious Italian dishes.

One of the best Italian restaurants in Barcelona, La Patsa Lab is famous for its Gnudi di spinaci e ricotta con salsa di burro, salvia e parmigiano, a stunning spinach and cheese pasta dish, as well as its Passatelli con salsa di parmigiano tartufato e nocciole tostate, a truffle and parmesan dish.

Open: La Patsa Lab is open from 1pm to 4pm and 7.30pm to 11pm every day but Monday.

Address: Carrer de Casanova, 94, 08011

Booking: 930 312 314

Price: €€

La Patsa Lab
Image: La Patsa Lab

2. Enoteca

The Michelin starred Enoteca Paco Perez offers up the best in modern Mediterranean cooking, using the highest quality ingredients and unique dishes.

Open: Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 7.30pm to 11p, and Sunday from 1pm to 3.30pm

Address: Carrer de la Marina, 19, 21, 08005

Booking: 934 838 108 or online here

Price: €€€

Image: Enoteca

3. Musiu

One of the best cheap restaurants in Barcelona, Musiu is an Italian in Eixample, near some of Barcelona´s most famous travel attractions.

Open: Monday and Tuesday from 12.30pm to 4.30pm, and Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 12.30pm to 4.30pm and 7.30pm to 11pm

Address: Carrer de Pau Claris, 112, 08009

Booking: 931 371 484 and online here

Price:

Musiu
Image: Musiu

4. Lasarte

One of Barcelona´s most famous restaurants, the Michelin starred Lasarte is headed up by chef Martin Berasategui and offers stunning dishes including foie gras and European eel.

After a full renovation, the new Lasarte Restaurant is now even more modern and with more spacious look.

Lasarte has a semi-private room in the main dining room and a second private dining room, called the Chef’s Table, with room for up to 8 people over the kitchen.

Open: Wednesday to Saturday from 1pm to 2.30pm and 8pm to 9.30pm

Address: C/ Mallorca, 259 08008

Booking: 934 453 242 or online here

Price: €€€

Lasarte
Image: Lasarte

5. Restaurante Martinez

For the best paella in Barcelona, try Restaurante Martinez, located on Montjuic with views over the city.

Famed for being the restaurant with the best views of Barcelona, Restaurante Martinez is also famous for its other seafood dishes, including lobster and an oyster bar.

Open: Every day from 1pm to 6pm and 8pm to 12am

Address: Carretera de Miramar, 38, 08038

Booking: 931 066 052 or online here

Price: €€€

Restaurante Martinez
Image: Restaurante Martinez

6. Koy Shunka

For Japanese food lovers Koy Shunka is one of the best restaurants in Barcelona.  With a Michelin star and created by chef Hideki Matsuhisa, Koy Shunka is most famous for its stunning nigiris.

Open: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 1pm to 2pm and 8pm to 9pm and Sunday from 8pm to 9pm

Address: Carrers d´en Copons, 7, 08002

Booking: 934 127 939 or online here

Price: €€€

Image: Koy Shunka

7. El Xampanyet

Dating from the 1920s, El Xampanyet is famed for its authentic dishes, alongside its cava.

Now a cider house too, El Xampanyet is one of Barcelona´s most famous (and busy) hangouts.

Located in the El Born district, El Xampanyet is one of Barcleona´s oldest gems, opening in 1929.

This characterful old building filled with vintage items has managed to preserve all its personality since it was founded.

Originally named Ca l’Esteve, in around 1972 it was renamed El Xampanyet, the name residents had given it thanks to the sparkling wine of the same name it was famous for.

Although best known for its cava and ciders, El Xampanyet is also loved by barcelonins and travellers alike for its anchovies and salted fish dishes.

Open: Tuesday to Saturday from from 12pm to 3.30pm and 7pm to 12am

Address: Carrer de Montcada, 22, 08003

Booking:  No booking here, just queuing up with the rest of this famous bar´s fans

Price:

Image: Neil Morris

8. 4 Gats

One of the oldest and most famous restaurants in Barcelona, 4 Gats first opened in 1897 and has hosted some of the world´s greatest artists, including playwright Santiago Rusiño, Pablo Picasso and Antoni Gaudi.

Created by owner Pere Romeu, 4 Gats is located on Carrer de Montsio and is now famed for its Catalan dishes.

Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 12.30am

Address: Carrer de Montsio, 3, 08002

Booking: 933 024 140 or online here

Price: €€

4 Gats
Image: Jaume Maneses

9. Benzina

Serving up Italian dishes, owner Badr Bennis and head chef Nicola Valle are famous for their colourful food and twists on modern classics.

Open: Wednesday and Thursday from 8pm to 12am, Friday from 9pm to 2am, Saturday from 1.30pm to 5.30pm and 8pm to 12.30am and Sunday from 1.30pm to 5.30pm and 8pm to 12am

Address: Passatge de Pere Calders, 6, 08015

Booking: 936 595 583 or online here

Price: €€

Image: Benzina

10. Via Veneto

Serving up some of Barcelona´s best food for more than 40 years, Via Veneto is most  famous its fine dining experience and truffles.

Open: Monday to Friday 1pm to 3.15pm and 8pm to 11pm and Saturday from 8pm to 11pm

Address: C/ Ganduxer, 10, 08021

Booking: 932 007 244 or online here 

Price: €€€

Image: Via Veneto

Where to stay in Barcelona

Barcelona has got some of the world´s most famous districts and neighbourhoods, each with their own hidden gems.  Here is our pick of some of the very best areas and hotels for your trip to the city.

7 of the best Barcelona areas to stay in

Barcelona is a huge city, but which of its districts and neighbourhoods are the best to stay in for tourists when you travel there?

1. Gracia

Currently Barcelona´s hottest area, Gracia offers artisanal shops, unique cuisine and easy access to the city centre.

Highlights include the stunning Park Güell with its Gaudi-designed features.

Image: Nikolaiy

2. L´Eixample

Built between the 1800s and 1900s, L´Eixample houses some of Gaudi´s most famous buildings, including La Pedrera, Casa Batllo, and La Sagrada Familia, and is worth a visit when you travel to Barcelona.

Image: KarinKarin

3. El Born

Perhaps Barcelona´s artiest area, El Born offers up some of the city´s most impressive landmarks, including the Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar and the Palau de la Musica.

Image: SBA73

4. Barceloneta

Best for those who want to spend their vacation at the beach, Barceloneta offers sun, sea and surf, as well as a thriving nightlife.

Image: Antonio_Cansino

5. El Raval

Offering some of Barcelona´s most famous bars, El Raval is the area for those who like to  have fun.

It also offers a selection of independent shops as well as some of the city´s most modern art, including the Museum of Contemporary Art, MACBA.

Image: Alain Rouiller

6. Sant Antoni

Another one of Barcelona´s hottest areas, Sant Antoni is located in L´Eixample and is famous for its buzzing bars and its indoor market, the Mercat de San Antoni.

Image: Enric

7. Gothic Quarter

The best location to travel to in Barcelona for those who love their architecture, the Gothic Quarter houses some of the city´s oldest landmarks and also offers some of its best cafes and restaurants.

Stretching from La Rambla to Via Leiatana in Ciutat Vella, it  is one of the oldest parts of the city.  Highlights include the Casa Padellas, built in the 1500s, and the Palau Reial Major.

Image: JosepBC

20 of the best hotels in Barcelona

The city has some of the best hotels in the world and here are some of the best places to stay when you travel to Barcelona.

1. Hotel Barcelona Apolo

Close to some of Barcelona’s most popular landmarks, such as Montjuic Castle (0.8 mi) and Passeig de Gracia (1.2 mi), Hotel Barcelona Apolo is a great destination for tourists.

The Barcelona Apolo Hotel features a 24 hour front desk, a concierge, and room service and is close to the Mossen Costa i Llobera Gardens and Jardin Botanico de Barcelona.

Address: Av. Del Parallel, 57-59, 08004

Booking: 933 433 000 or online here

Price: €€

Hotel Barcelona Apolo
Image: Hotel Barcelona Apolo

2. Hotel Barcelona House

Well-known for its proximity to great restaurants and attractions, Hotel Barcelona House is a budget option close to Casa Batllo (1.0 mi) and Las Ramblas (0.1 mi).

Address: Carrer dels Escudellers, 19, 08002

Booking: Online here

Price:

Image: Hotel Barcelona House

3. Hotel Amrey Sant Pau

Located near to the Sagrada Familia, Hotel Amrey Sant Pau is a budget hotel near to the restaurants, shops and museums of Barcelona.

Address: Carrer de Sant Antoni Maria Claret, 173, 08041

Booking: Online here

Price:

Hotel Amrey Sant Pau
Image: Hotel Amrey Sant Pau

4. Hotel Ciutat de Barcelona

Near the Picasso Museum, the Hotel Ciutat de Barcelona offers a rooftop swimming pool as well as modern accommodation.

Address: Carrer de la Princesa, 35, 08003

Booking: Online here

Prices: €€

Hotel Ciutat de Barcelona
Image: Hotel Ciutat de Barcelona

5. Petite Palace Boqueria Garden

Located in the Boqueria quarter of Barcelona, the Petite Palace Boqueria Garden offers a garden and outdoor terrace to enjoy the city´s climate.

Address: Carrer de la Boqueria, 10, 08002

Booking: Online here

Price: €€

Image: Petite Palace Boqueria Garden

6. Sir Victor Hotel

Located near to Casa Mila and all the shops, cultural sites and restaurants of one of the most popular areas of Barcelona, Sir Victor Hotel also has a rooftop pool.

Address: Carrer del Rossello, 265, 08008

Booking: Online here

Price: €€€

Image: Sir Victor Hotel

7. Hotel Barcelona 1882

Located in Gracia 400 metres from the Sagrada Familia, making it ideal for travel to some of the city´s most famous attractions, Hotel Barcelona 1882 has an outdoor pool, fitness centre, restaurant, and terrace.

Address: C. de Corsega, 482, 08025

Booking: Online here

Price: €€

Image: Hotel Barcelona 1882

8. Iberostar Selection Paseo de Gracia

Located on Plaça Catalunya in Eixample, Iberostar Selection Paseo de Gracia makes it easy to travel to the biggest sights in Barcelona and also offers a terrace.

Address: Pl.de Catalunya, 10, 08002

Booking: Online here

Price: €€

Image: Iberostar Selection Paseo de Gracia

9. Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa

Situated in Ciutat Vella 400 metres from Portal de l’Angel, Yurbban Passage Hotel offers an outdoor pool, spa centre and on-site restaurant.

Address: Carrer de Trafalgar, 26, 08010

Booking: Online here

Price: €€

Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa
Image: Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa

10. Room Mate Gerard

Set in Eixample 700 metres from Portal de l´Angel, Room Mate Gerard offers an outdoor pool, terrace and a fitness centre.

Address: C / d’Ausias Marc, 34, 08010

Booking: Online here

Price: €€

Image: Room Mate Gerard

11. Catalonia Magdalenes

The Catalonia Magdalenes Hotel is set in Ciutat Vella, 200 metres from the Cathedral of Barcelona and offers a terrace with an outdoor pool with views of the Cathedral and a spa. Portal de l’Angel is 200 metres away.

Address: Carrer de les Magdalenes, 13, 15, 08002

Booking: Online here

Price: €€

Image: Catalonia Magdalenes

12. Duquesa de Cardona

Located near Barcelona’s marina in the Gothic Quarter and 600 metres from the Ramblas, Duquesa de Cardona offers a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views and two plunge pools and a bar.

Address: Passeig de Colom, 12, 08002

Booking: Online here

Price: €€

Duquesa de Cardona
Image: Duquesa de Cardona

13. Hotel Bagues

Offering a rooftop pool and bar with stunning city views, this 5-star boutique hotel is located on Las Ramblas.

Address: La Rambla, 105, 08002

Booking: Online here

Price: €€€

Image: Hotel Bagues

14. Catalonia Ramblas

Located near Las Ramblas and Plaza Catalunya, Catalonia Ramblas features an outdoor pool with a terrace, as well as a spa with a sauna, a steam bath and a hot tub.

Massage and beauty treatments are also available.

Address: C. de Pelai, 28, 08001

Booking: Online here

Price: €€

Image: Catalonia Ramblas

15. Hotel Royal Passeig de Gracia

Close to La Pedrera, Hotel Royal Passeig de Gracia offers a terrace bar with panoramic views of Barcelona, as well as an interior garden.

Address: Pg.de Gracia, 84, 08008

Booking: Online here

Price: €€

Image: Hotel Royal Passeig de Gracia

16. Yurbban Ramblas Boutique Hotel

Just 400 metres from Boqueria Market and 1.8 km from Passeig de Gracia, the Yurbban Ramblas Boutique Hotel is located in Ciutat Vella.

Address: La Rambla, 129, 08002

Booking: Online here

Price: €€

Image: Yurbban Ramblas Boutique Hotel

17. Hotel Plaza Olivia

Located on Plaza Catalunya in Ciutat Vella, the Hotel Olivia Plaza offers a terrace bar with views of Santa Ana Church.

Address: Pl. de Catalunya, 19, 08002

Booking: Online here

Price: €€€

Image: Hotel Plaza Olivia

18. Hotel El Palace Barcelona

Offering a Mayan-style luxury spa, Hotel El Palace Barcelona is close to Las Ramblas in the Eixample district.

Famed for its stunning Rooftop Garden, which was inspired by the romantic garden at the palace of 1900s politician Francesc Cambo, the garden offers a pool, restaurant and bar.

Meanwhile, the hotel is popular for its luxurious rooms and fine dining.

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 668, 08010

Booking: Online here

Price: €€€

Image: Hotel El Palace Barcelona

19. Ohla Hotel

The luxury Ohla Hotel is located on Via Laietana and offers an award-winning cocktail bar, the Michelin-starred Saüc restaurant and a rooftop pool.

Address: Via Laietana, 49, 08003

Booking: Online here

Price: €€€

Image: Ohla Hotel

20. Hotel Claris Barcelona

Another luxury option, the Hotel Claris Barcelona was once the Palau Vedruna, and still offers a taste of sumptuous palace life.

Address: Carrer de Pau Claris, 150, 08009

Booking: Online here

Price: €€€

Image: Hotel Claris Barcelona

How to get to Barcelona

And now you know where to visit and when, how do you get there?

Barcelona is one of Europe´s biggest transport hubs, with a trainline, metro, and an airport with 52.6 million passengers yearly making it easy to travel to the city.

Airport

Most international travellers fly into Barcelona via its airport, the Josep Tarradellas Barcelona El Prat Airport.

Hosting flights from countries around the world, El Prat Airport is 9.3 miles from the centre of the city and is easily accessible by train and metro with its own stations.

Image: Ralf Roletschek

Metro

Once in the city the metro is one of the easiest ways to travel around Barcelona.

With 183 stops taking in everything from the city centre to the suburbs, the metro is also one of the cheapest ways to see Barcelona, costing from €2.40.

For tickets and more information, click here.

An Hola Barcelona Travel Card allows travellers to use the city´s metro, bus and suburban rail networks as much as you want.  Cards are for 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours and cost from €16.30 for an adult.

Train

Barcelona also has one of Europe´s busiest train stations, Barcelona Sants, making it super easy to travel to the city from across Spain and other countries.

Located in the Sant-Montjuic district, it connects to the metro as well as other major hubs, including Madrid and France.

For a full list of train times and more information, click here.


More about Barcelona

If all that information about Barcelona has given you a thirst to know even more, check out our guide to some further background to this stunning city below, including its history geography, and the essential contact information you´ll need to visit the city.

The history of Barcelona

You may know that Barcelona is one of the most famous cities in the world, but do you know when it first attracted global attention?

Originally a Roman city named Barcino, in the Middle Ages Barcelona became one of the main residences of the court of the Crown of Aragon, making the city one of most important political and economic areas in Europe.

Image: Athree23

The city´s prosperity grew again in the 1800s when it developed a buzzing textile industry, before later achieving worldwide fame with its architectural works by Antoni Gaudi and Lluis Domenech i Montaner, which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The city is also famous for having two of the most prestigious universities in Spain, the University of Barcelona and Pompeu Fabra University, and for hosting the 1992 Summer Olympics.

Located on in the northeast of Spain in Catalonia on the Mediterranean, Barcelona is now the second most populated city in Spain (after Madrid), with 1.6 million residents and attracting 32 million tourists a year.


Geography of Barcelona

Barcelona sits 75 miles south of the border with France and the Pyrenees, and is bordered to the north and south by rivers and by the Collserola mountains.

The city measures around 39 square miles and has 10 districts, each with various neighbourhoods. 

Ciutat Vella

The´old city´ and Barcelona´s most central district, Ciutat Vella contains the famous La Barceloneta and Sant Pere neighbourhoods.  It is famous for its cafes and restuarants and for containing Barcelona´s best known street, Las Ramblas.

Eixample

Developed in the late 1800s and early 1900s, Eixample is popular with tourists as it is near to Ciutat Vella and has some of the best shopping in the city.  It is also famous for its architecture, with Gaudi´s Sagrada Familia and Casa Mila there.

Les Corts

Located 15 minutes from the centre of Barcelona, Les Corts is the city´s business district

Sants-Montjuic

On the southwest of Barcelona, this district include the mountains of Montjuic.

Sarria-Sant Gervasi

This district is in the northwest of Barcelona with much of it sitting on top of the Sierra de Collserola.

Gracia

The smallest geographical district in Barcelona, Gracia is popular with city residents

Horta-Guinardo

This area is the third largest district in Barcelona.

Image: User32212

Nou Barris

One of the cheapest areas of Barcelona to live in, Nou Barris is also known for its diverse ethnic cuisine.

Sant Andreu

This district is known for its historical church, San Andres.

Sant Marti

One of Barcelona´s most popular districts to live in, Sant Marti sits on the Mediterranean.


Important contacts

When you travel to Barcelona, you´ll need to have the numbers of who get in touch with in an emergency.

That´s why we have included this list of important contacts in Barcelona, including the emergency services and some of the main embassies.

  • Police, fire and health services: 112
  • British Consulate General Barcelona: Av Diagonal, 477, 13ª, 08036 Barcelona, 933 66 62 00
  • United States of America Consulate General Barcelona: Passeig de la Reina Elisenda de Montcada, 23, 08034 Barcelona, 932, 802 227

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