Barcelona by an Expat

History and General Notes

Founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC, Barcelona, capital of Catalonia, has a rich history. It flourished as a medieval trading hub and became a maritime power. The 19th century witnessed industrialization, and the city embraced Modernisme architecture, led by Antoni Gaudí. Barcelona faced political turmoil during the Spanish Civil War and Franco's regime. Post-1975, it experienced a cultural renaissance, hosting the 1992 Olympics and evolving into a global hub for art, design, and football. Today, Barcelona is a thriving city that attracts tourism from all over the world, plus, its an incredibly LGBTQ friendly destination.

While Barcelona is in Spain, it is located in an autonomous community known as Catalonia (Catalunya). The culture you experience here may be very different from other parts of Spain. Most locals speak both Spanish and Catalan, but don't be surprised if you start hearing a language you can't quite put your finger on or have trouble reading local signage.

Please watch your pockets!  I’m sure you have read about the pick pocketing issues throughout the city but they are truly a huge issue! Try to keeps things out of your pockets and in the bottom of a book bag that cannot be opened easily from behind. Don’t leave cell phones out on tables while dining and try not to walk with your phone out in your hands either. If you’re at the beach do not leave your belongings unattended while you go to the water! Ignore the handlers that come up to you in touristy areas to showcase their “homemade” products. 

Activities/ Sight Seeing

Arc de Triomf

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Barcelona's Arc de Triomf, built in 1888 as the main entrance to the World Exposition, is a triumphal arch reflecting Catalan craftsmanship. A symbol of welcome and unity that will lead you directly to the city's largest park!

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Barcelona Botanical Garden

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These gardens were founded in 1999, and showcase an extensive collection of Mediterranean plants. The gardens offer a tranquil escape, featuring diverse ecosystems and highlighting the region's rich biodiversity. Plus, they are very close to a variety of additional actives you may want to do in the city!

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Cathedral of Barcelona

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Barcelona Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, stands as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Dating back to the 13th century, it houses notable sculptures and a serene cloister, embodying the city's religious and cultural heritage. Fairly easy to get into, you likely won't need tickets ahead of time. Pro Tip: Weather and construction permitting, you can take an elevator to the top and walk along the roof for stunning panoramic views.

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CAMP NOU (FC BARCELONA)

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Home to the infamous FC Barcelona, Camp Nou is a must-visit for football enthusiasts. Experience the electric atmosphere and witness sporting history. Take a tour or go to a match. Secure tickets easily online or at the stadium for an unforgettable match day experience.

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Casa Batlló

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An architectural marvel in Barcelona, this building by Antoni Gaudí captivates with its surreal design, vibrant colors, and organic shapes. A symbol of Modernisme, it stands as a cultural gem. Tickets tend to be on the pricey side, but know the real gem is the exterior facade, which you can see from the street without paying for an entrance ticket.

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Ciutadella Park

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La Pedrera-Casa Milà

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La Rambla

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La Rambla, Barcelona's iconic boulevard, pulsates with life, lined by shops, cafes, and street performers. Though bustling, be cautious of crowds and pickpockets, especially during peak seasons. Its vibrant energy and cultural significance make it an essential Barcelona experience. Pro Tip: Do not eat at any establishment that has outdoor seating on La Rambla or pays for panhandlers to stand outside and attract passing tourists. You will see many signs for paella and see tables with extravagant, multicolored cocktails. Avoid at all costs.

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La Sagrada Familia

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The Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí's masterpiece, began construction in 1882. This iconic basilica, with its innovative architecture, remains incomplete, a symbol of perpetual work and dedication. Many Barcelona natives joke that construction will never end as it adds to the allure of the basilica. If you are gonna spend your money on one museum or activity in Barcelona, do it here. The experience inside is breathtaking, like nothing I have experienced in any other basilica in the world. Approximately, €30 for express tickets on GetYourGuide, make sure to allow yourself enough time to truly enjoy this experience.

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Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

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Discover the allure of Barcelona's Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, hosting captivating water and light spectacles on specific warm days. Embrace the magic with a leisurely picnic, invite your friends, and create an unforgettable memory in the heart of an unforgettable city! Accessible by metro on lines L1, L3, and L8

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Mercado de La Boqueria

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Montjuïc Castle

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Perched on Montjuïc hill in Barcelona, Montjuïc Castle has a storied history, serving as a fortress, prison, and military museum. It offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.

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Park Güell

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Nestled in the hills of Barcelona, a vibrant public space adorned with Gaudí's creativity offers panoramic city views. Beware of the many steps you may have to take to get up to the park depending on if you choose to take public transport to get there.

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Plaça de Catalunya

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Plaça de Catalunya, Barcelona's central square, is a bustling hub surrounded by shops, including El Corte Inglés and luxury boutiques on Passeig de Gràcia, making it a prime shopping destination. Pro Tip: This square also hosts one of he 'Aerobes' stations that ferries passengers between the city and the airport for 5 euros. They leave every ~10 minutes and go to both terminals.

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Plaça Reial

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Check out this awesome square with tons of character in the charming gothic quarter. Mostly filled with restaurants and bars, the square really comes alive in the afternoon and stays lively until the early hours of the morning. Interesting note: the street lamps in this square were designed by none other than Gaudi himself!

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Port Cable Car - Port Station

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This cable car ride goes over the port and ends in a part of the former Olympic village, you can buy tickets to go there and back or just there. It’s ~€8 round trip and the view is awesome, plus it's far faster than taking a cab to that part of town.

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Restaurants

Almalibre

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Brunch & Cake

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Colom Restaurant

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Tapas

Bodega Biarritz 1881 Tapas bar

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If you ignore every recommendation on this list, I beg you to listen to this one. With over 7,000 five-star reviews, this is hands down the best tapas restaurant I have ever been to. Typically there is a long line, especially during peak tourist season, but I promise the wait is worth it. The Maître d' speaks about 8 languages fluently and works efficiently to get parties in and out. The premise of the menu is 'surprise tapas'. When ordering, the waiter/waitress will ask if there are any dietary restrictions at the table or simply any foods you don't like. You can choose from a meal of 6 tapas or 8 tapas, barring any drinks or desserts. Then, tapas will be brought to your table on large platters with small sharing plates for everyone to enjoy. Expect to pay €25-40 per person.

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Bar Jai-Ca

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Located in Barceloneta, this traditional tapas restaurant is perfect after a long day in the city. And, they take reservations! Great prices and traditional Spanish food, this place will be sure to check your quintessential tapas experience box.

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Gluten Free

Just because these either are entirely gluten free, or have gluten free options, don't discount them! All are still incredible recommendations for a bite to eat!

Celiadictos

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Conesa Entrepans

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Some of the best, traditional Catalan sandwiches in the city!

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The fish & chips shop Gluten Free

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Jansana Gluten Free Bakery

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After a crippling gluten intolerance diagnosis, I found this gem in Barcelona which saved me from all my glutinous desires. By far the best gluten free bakery in the city!

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Stays

A curated combination of hotels and hostels for a large variety of travelers. If you want to seek out places outside of this list, check out these neighborhoods: Gothic Quarter, Passeig de Gràcia, Eixample, Barceloneta, and El Born. Avoid staying in Raval and any establishment located directly on the infamous 'La Rambla'. 

Hotels

Cotton House Hotel, Autograph Collection

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Hostels

Mediterranean Hostel Barcelona

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Party Hostel Kabul

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St Christopher's Inn | Hostel in Barcelona

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TOC Hostel Barcelona

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Museums

Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya

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The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya in Barcelona showcases Catalan art from the Romanesque period to the mid-20th century. Its diverse collection includes painting, sculpture, and decorative arts.

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Museu Olímpic i de l'Esport Joan Antoni Samaranch

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This museum celebrates the city's Olympic history, displaying sports memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and the legacy of Joan Antoni Samaranch, former IOC president.

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Picasso Museum

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This museum is truly incredibly interesting but a little expensive. The neighborhood though, Born, is really cool with awesome cafes and restaurants nearby. Make sure to get your tickets ahead of time either directly from the museum or on GetYourGuide. In case you didn't know, Pablo Picasso was a massively influential Spanish artist from the 20th century, who co-founded Cubism and produced a diverse body of work, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. A filming spot from Disney Channel's iconic "Cheetah Girls 2" is nearby as well.

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Moco Museum Barcelona

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This eclectic museum showcases contemporary art, featuring a diverse collection of innovative and thought-provoking works that challenge traditional boundaries and captivate visitors. Tickets are typically readily available!

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Nightlife

Belushi's Barcelona

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Hotel Roma Reial

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Don't let the photos deceive you! While this location has an adjoining hotel operated under a similar name, Hotel Roma's real gem is the bar and club located underneath the hotel. Outside you'll find patio tables with black umbrellas that bear bright pink 'Hotel Roma' decals. Check out Hotel Roma for a pregame or a cheeky, low-cost night out. Located in Placa Reial, there are tons of other restaurants, bars, and clubs in the surrounding square if this recommendation isn't quite doing it for you. Each day Hotel Roma hosts a happy hour special of 2 for 1 drinks, specifically cocktails. While the liquor may not be top shelf, it's a great place to sit and drink before a night out. If you want to stay local, check out Club Cavendish downstairs for a small entry fee that also gets you one free drink and two free shots. Likely, there will be a Nigerian man promoting the establishment outside, named Eddie. Tell him Parker sent you and he might take a drink off your tab or slip you in for free!

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L'Ovella Negra Marina

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Razzmatazz

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Razzmatazz offers diverse music genres, from indie to electronic. A vibrant nightlife spot, it opens late, welcoming partygoers after 2 am. Make sure to get your tickets ahead of time, if not days in advance due to its popularity.

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Sala Bikini Barcelona

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Day Trips

Sitges

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Nestled along the Catalan south of Barcelona, charms with its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Known for its lively Carnaval, the town hosts a spectacular celebration with colorful parades and festivities, attracting locals and visitors alike to revel in the joyous spirit of this picturesque coastal gem. About a 45 minute train ride each way for €9 with departures leaving from three different stations in the city.

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Girona

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Girona, a historic city near Barcelona, boasts medieval charm with well-preserved architecture and a rich history. Recognizable as a filming location for Game of Thrones, its iconic landmarks add a touch of fantasy to the city's allure, attracting visitors eager to explore its real and fictional past.

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