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  • Barcelona Tourist Information Centre, Office and Points

Barcelona Tourist Information Centre, Office and Points

Updated Apr 11 2024

The city of Barcelona has plenty of tourist information centres and offices , which are called ‘Oficines de Turisme’ in Catalan and ‘Oficinas de Turismo’ in Spanish.

You’ll also find various cabins that serve as tourist information points , and here you’ll be able to have your questions answered about the places in the city that you’d like to visit, whether you need information about opening hours of museums or sights, or how to get there quickly and easily. You’ll also be able to pick up leaflets and maps of the city.

The tourist information centres, which are located inside various buildings throughout the city centre and in particularly areas popular with tourists, offer all sorts of information and services for tourists . Below we have given you a list of all the official Tourist Information Centres within Barcelona.

To bear in mind

Bear in mind that Barcelona’s tourist information centres are usually closed on 1st January and 25th December.

List of Tourist Information Centres and where to find the information points

Barcelona’s tourist information centres can be found throughout the city, in the most central areas , and many of them are in or near the most well known sights .

Below we have given you a list of all the official tourist information centres , as well as a map which shows where each of them is situated.

Travel cards Barcelona

Plaça de Cataluña Tourist Centre

Plaça sant jaume tourist office, sants station tourist office, barcelona airport tourist office, christopher columbus monument, cathedral tourist office, triangle tourist office, glòries tourist office, rambla – liceu tourist office, rambla – passatge amadeu bagués office, map of barcelona tourist information centres.

Catalunya Information Centre

Inside the Palau Robert and the Palau Moja you will find the Catalunya Information Centre , where you can get tourist information about the sights and things to do in the whole of Catalunya. The staff in the office will advise you and will do their best to answer any questions you may have.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 20:00, Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 to 14:30. Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 107. Palau Moja

Barcelona Tourist information cabins

In addition to the tourist information offices, Barcelona also has small portacabins , some of which are only open during the busier periods of the year), which are located outside and next to some of the most visited sights , and in particularly busy areas for tourists. They serve as information points , helping tourists especially at the busier times of year.

Although they don’t offer the same range of services that the tourist information offices do, they are very useful for some basic services , such as ticket sales for certain events and museums, maps, bespoke information for those who have questions about visiting the city’s sights, etc.).

Location of some of the Tourist Information Cabins

  • www.barcelona.cat

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Our highlights

Grec Festival 2024

26 June 2024 4 August 2024

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14 May 2024 28 June 2024

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Discover the city’s sights

Explore Barcelona’s streets and enjoy all they offer you: urban and natural spaces, cultural and architectural heritage, museums, recreation and leisure, study and research centres, suggestions for shopping or doing sport and plenty more.

The most sought after

  • Magic Fountain
  • The Laberint d’Horta Maze
  • La Sagrada Família

Orchestra playing at the Liceu de Barcelona

Routes through Barcelona

Parc del Laberint d’Horta

Each of Barcelona’s parks and gardens has its own history and personality that make it unique.

Woman dancing flamenco

Roma culture has left its mark in Barcelona, above all in music and dance.

Museu del Disseny de Barcelona building

True to its creative, modern and innovative spirit, Barcelona continues to reinvent its urban landscape.

Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes. Children’s play area

Some of Barcelona’s most unique buildings are concentrated into little more than a kilometre around Les Glòries.

Books hanging from threads

Barcelona has always been a city linked to design as an artistic discipline, besides being a tool for social transformation.

Bird’s-eye view of Avinguda Diagonal

Crossing the city from end to end, Avinguda Diagonal allows you to sample every aspect of Barcelona in a walk bustling with life.

Plaça de Barcelona with two people reading

There are a good many novels that choose Barcelona as their central setting and which draw their readers deep inside the city through their pages.

El Rec Comtal in Barcelona’s Nou Barris district

Ever since infrastructures were created to put an end to historic periods of drought, water has been available in every nook and cranny of Barcelona. 

Poble Espanyol de Montjuïc

Barcelona has been the setting for countless Spanish, Catalan and international productions which have turned it into an outdoor stage.

Door and wall of the Finca Miralles, designed by Antoni Gaudí

Besides his world-famous creations, there are still spectacular works by Antoni Gaudí waiting to be discovered.

Routes close to Barcelona

La Foradada waterfall, in Cantonigròs

Reconnect with nature thanks to over a hundred thousand hectares of protected spaces located a stone’s throw from the city.

Laid table with vineyards in the background

Discover the landscapes of the area’s various D.O. wines and do some wine-tasting.

Pedret Bridge

Mountains join legends to present an enchanting, rural landscape, with quality food and spaces for outdoor activities.

A person climbing

Barcelona’s counties have plenty of sites equipped for sports enthusiasts.

Les Guilleries-Savassona Natural Area

Barcelona’s inland counties invite you to discover hermitages, castles and historical relics surrounded by a harmonious natural environment.

Montserrat mountain and monastery

A unique combination of unusual shapes, culture and religion gives rise to Catalonia’s most iconic mountain range.

Golf course with views of Barcelona's beach

A range of internationally famous golf courses await you less than an hour from Barcelona’s centre.

Sitges beach in the evening

Visit Barcelona’s coast and enjoy the cocktail of architecture, nature and good food that come with it.

What's on

If you’re arriving to Barcelona during these days, here’s the highlighted agenda of activities. And you still haven't decided when to come to the city, go here to check out the top events of 2024 .

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  • Where: Barcelona

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  • Where: El Parc del Fòrum

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  • Where: Observatori Fabra

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  • Where: Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera

barcelona tourist info office

  • Where: Sortida i final plaça Catalunya
  • See most relevant activities in the city

Reasons to come

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Barcelona is ranked among the best cities in the world for quality of life, safety and equality. Boasting the typical features of a cosmopolitan and open city, its social cohesion is a reality.

Museu d'Història de Barcelona (MUHBA) building

Discover the different chapters in Barcelona’s history which over time have shaped the city we know today.

Person going into the metro in Barcelona

The city promotes a tourist model based on respect for its resources in economic, social, environmental and cultural terms, setting its sights on current and future scenarios.

Person performing contemporary dance

Boasting a history going back over two thousand years and a unique identity, Barcelona is famous worldwide as a city bursting with culture and creativity.

barcelona tourist info office

Barcelona is an open, vibrant and creative city with a busy cultural, political, business and commercial life. It is a metropolis where every imaginable language can be heard, as well as a city that invites its residents and visitors alike to discover its Catalan culture and traditions .

Get moving!

Two girls looking at a Barcelona public transport map

Discover the most convenient and sustainable ways of getting around the city.

Solar panels on the façade of a building

The city offers a tourism model based on practices that are environmentally, economically and socio-culturally friendly.

Buildings in Barcelona

Choose the tourist establishments best suited to your needs and tastes.

Signage at Barcelona Airport

Check out the options available for reaching Barcelona by land, sea and air.

City campaign against illegal tourist apartments

Find out with ease whether your there are unlicensed tourist-use flats in your building or if you believe you may be staying in one of them.

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Rules of civility in the city for harmony between tourists and local residents.

Barcelona Bus Turístic

Discover the city using tourist transport and enjoy its most iconic monuments and buildings.

Entrance to the Barcelona Tourist Office

Barcelona has a wide network of tourist information points and offices at the service of its visitors.

People start work between 8 am and 9 am and continue up to 1.30 pm or 2 pm. They return to work from between 3 pm and 4 pm and finish between 6 pm and 7.30 pm. The normal  working week  runs from Monday to Friday and, in some sectors, Saturday as well.

Tourist information offices  open every day of the week and only close on two days of the year: 1 January and 25 December. Each office has its own opening times between 8 am and 8 pm. They have special opening times during the Christmas period.

Breakfast: between 8 and 11 am. Lunch: between 1.30 pm and 3 pm. Evening meal: between 9 pm and 11.30 pm. Despite that, restaurant opening times are flexible and you can eat at any time in lots of them.

Most retail businesses  follow the normal working week  of Monday to Saturday and close around 8 pm, except the shopping centres, which do not close at midday and stay open till 10 pm.

The city's public transport operates for much of the day, with times varying, depending on the rush hours. A full network of night buses covers most routes during the night. The metro runs throughout the night on Saturdays.

Visit Barcelona logo

Visit Barcelona

The Consortium works to promote the city as a tourist destination. It offers a range of products and services, through several lines and programmes, aimed at the professional tourist sector and at individual tourists.

Barcelona Turisme

Visit Barcelona

Professionals

  • Barcelona Convention Bureau

TikTok

VisitBarcelona official visitor guide

  • Accessible tourism

barcelona tourist info office

Plaça de Catalunya

Located in the heart of Barcelona, this information point has 700 m 2 of dedicated floor space providing in different languages.

The office also provides:

Personalized attention, official ticket and tour sales, unique experiencesand gift shop.

Meeting point for the Picasso walking tours .

VAT refund - Global Blue, Tax Free, Innova i Travel .

barcelona tourist info office

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Description

The oficina de turisme de barcelona –the barcelona tourism office– is located on spacious premises of 700 sq.m. at plaça de catalunya, in the heart of the city. this information point offers complete tourist and cultural information in several languages and a number of different services: · qualified monitors provide tourist and cultural information on barcelona in several languages. · last-minute hotel booking service and sale of tourism products. · free distribution and sale of sightseeing brochures. · sale of barcelona-related gift articles (bcn original shop). · help with the tel-entrades online ticket sales service. · vat refunds. tax free global blue., information and sale of tourism products, · barcelona bus turístic (barcelona tourist bus) · barcelona card · barcelona walking tours · barcelona bus turístic de nit (barcelona night tourist bus) arqueoticket (multi-ticket to barcelona archaeology museums) catalunya bus turístic (catalonia tourist bus) visits and tours tickets and shows city transport cards.

More Information

How to get there: Metro: L1 y L3 Catalunya station.| Buses: 16, 17, 24, 41, 42, 55 y 58.| RENFE Trains: Catalunya station.| FGC Trains: Catalunya station. Opening times: Daily, 8.30 a.m - 20.30 p.m. (Dec. 26& Jan. 6, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.) Closed: Jan. 1 & Dec. 25.

Plaza Cataluña nº 17 08002 Barcelona Spain

932 853 834

[email protected].

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Barcelona Tourist Office - official tourist office Featured Popular

Barcelona Tourist Office - official tourist office

Tourist office in Barcelona | Where to find them

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If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful Catalan city, then it’s essential to know where to find the main tourist offices. Tourist offices are your one-stop-shop for all the information you need to make the most of your stay in Barcelona, whether you need help with sightseeing, accommodation, or transportation.

In this post, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of 10 different tourist offices located across the city of Barcelona . We’ll give you the exact addresses, opening times, and links for directions, so you can easily find the closest tourist office to your location.

No matter where you’re staying in Barcelona, there is a tourist office nearby to assist you. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to the city, keep reading to discover the tourist offices in Barcelona.

Plaça de Catalunya Tourist office

It is located in the heart of Barcelona and is the head quarters office, the biggest one. They sell gifts items inspired by Barcelona, they do   VAT refunds  too.

Address : Plaça de Catalunya, 17-S, Barcelona | Tel: 932 853 834 Opening hours: daily, from 8.30am to 8.30pm. Directions : Click here

Plaça Sant Jaume

This tourist office is located in the Gothic Area, on the ground floor of Barcelona’s City Hall.

Address: Ciutat, 2 (Ajuntament de Barcelona), Barcelona Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 8.30am to 8.30pm. Saturday, from 9am to 7pm. Sunday and public holidays, from 9am to 2pm. Directions : Click here

Estació de Sants

Rail travellers arriving in the city will find a Turisme de Barcelona tourist information point at Barcelona Sants railway station.

Address: Plaça dels Països Catalans, s/n, Barcelona Opening hours: daily, from 8am to 8pm. Directions : Click here

Airport Terminals 1 & 2

At Barcelona – El Prat airport you find tourist information offices too in case you need some advice before getting to the city.

Address: Aeroport del Prat – Terminal 1 i 2 (B), Barcelona Opening hours: daily, from 8.30am to 8.30pm. Directions : Click here

Oficina Catedral

Another of Turisme de Barcelona’s tourist information points is located in the heart of the city’s Gothic Quarter, on the ground floor of “Col·legi d’Arquitectes de Catalunya”.

Address: Col·legi Oficial d’Arquitectes de Catalunya. COAC. Plaça Nova, 5, Barcelona Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, from 9am to 7pm. Sunday and holidays, from 9am to 7pm. Directions : Click here

Mirador de Colom

Tourist information point located in the Plaça Portal de la Pau inside the Columbus Monument in nice area to go for a walk and see Barcelona’s old harbour.

Address: Plaça del Portal de la Pau, s/n, Barcelona Opening hours: daily, from 8.30am to 8.30pm. Directions : Click here

Oficina Triangle

Another of Turisme de Barcelona’s tourist information located in the city centre, on the ground floor of Centre Comercial “El Triangle”.

Address: Carrer de Pelai, s/n, Barcelona Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, from 9am to 8pm. Directions : Click here

Oficina Glòries

Another of Turisme de Barcelona’s tourist information points is located in the heart of 22@ district. The 22@ is a neighbourhood with plenty of startups and companies in the area.

Address: Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes, s/n, Barcelona Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, from 10am to 5pm. Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, closed. Directions : Click here

Oficina Rambla-Liceu

Tourist information office located in La Rambla, inside Gran Teatre del Liceu.

Address: La Rambla, 51-59, Barcelona Opening hours: daily, from 9am to 6.30pm. Directions : Click here

Oficina Rambla-Passatge Amadeu Bagués

Tourist information point located in La Rambla too, opposite the Boqueria Market.

Address: Rambla de les Flors, 88, Barcelona Opening hours: daily, from 9am to 9pm. Directions : Click here

I hope that this guide to the Tourist Offices in Barcelona has been helpful in planning your trip to this beautiful city. With so many different offices scattered across the city, you’re sure to find one nearby no matter where you’re staying.

Don’t hesitate to visit one of these tourist offices to make the most of your trip to Barcelona. They’re the perfect place to get insider tips, advice, and recommendations from locals who know the city best. With their help, you can create an unforgettable itinerary that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

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  • www.barcelona.cat

Welcome to the Barcelona City Council tourism website, where you'll find information on the city's tourism strategy, how tourism is being managed and what action is being taken, as well as data and statistics on tourist activity.

In Barcelona we use water responsibly. Every drop counts, so do your bit!

XII Business With Social Value 2024

Business With Social Value  will once again come together for the thirteenth consecutive year in a day of events at the Alimara Hotel that will include talks, testimonies, panel sessions and extended network opportunities, with the aim of promoting the inclusion of products and services from social and sustainable suppliers in businesses, organizations, and institutions. For more information and registration click  here .

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FORUM TURISTIC 2024 - CALL FOR PROJECTS

The 12th edition of the TurisTIC Forum has arrived under the banner The superpower of tourism in conserving the planet. The event is aimed at businesses in the field of tourism, innovation and technology. If you wish to be a speaker, pleaser register by 10th June. For more information click here .

In Barcelona we use our water responsibly

Every drop counts, so do your bit!

In Barcelona we use our water responsibly.

Compromís per a la Sostenibilitat Turística Barcelona Biosphere: www.turismesostenible.barcelona

Interested to make your business more sustainable?

Barcelona City Council offers tour operators the opportunity to adhere to a distinction that recognizes those who are committed to responsible management of the environment, culture, working conditions, gender equity and social and economic return. Information and registration here .

Pla de Sostenibilitat Turística en Destinació Barcelona

Barcelona-Destination Tourism-Sustainability Plan

The Barcelona-Destination Tourism-Sustainability Plan includes 19 projects financed with €41 million from NextGeneration EU funds and to be carried out between 2023 and 2025. We’ll give you the lowdown on all the planned initiatives ( see video )

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Tourism workshops

Turisme de Barcelona and the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce organise tourism torkshops to provide companies and organisations with a training offer aimed at designing and/or implementing new methodologies or sales tools for products and services, thus helping to improve their positioning. More information  and registration here .

Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona: city and region

Observatory of Tourism in Barcelona: city and region

Main statistical tourism information of Destination Barcelona

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Security and coexistence tips

Barcelona is an open, welcoming and safe city. We welcome visitors and offer them tips and information so they can enjoy their stay.  

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Welcome to Barcelona

Given the steady resumption of tourist activities, Barcelona City Council wishes to welcome all visitors to the city, inviting them to enjoy it, look after it and respect its spaces and community life

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Parking for tourist coaches

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The tourist spending has increased compared to the last five years

3 May, 2024 - 12:55h

Tourism. According to a report of a 2023 survey on tourist profiles and habits in Barcelona, tourist spending has increased across all categories when compared with the previous five years, reaching a total average spend of €1,095...

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The City Council approves €11.1 million from the tourist tax for 48 projects that will improve tourism’s social return in the city

30 April, 2024 - 13:50h

Tourism. A total of 29 of the projects will be managed by the districts, while the ICUB will get funds to develop 8 decentralised cultural programmes that will be held throughout the year and also designed with local people in mind.

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The InOut Hostel Barcelona celebrates its 20th anniversary

29 April, 2024 - 14:16h

Sustainable tourism. It was the first hospitality establishment in Europe to have 90% of its staff made up of workers with disabilities.

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Barcelona Travel Hub celebrates its annual conference promoting innovation in tourism

16 April, 2024 - 15:35h

Innovation. Barcelona City Council backs innovation in tourism as a driver of economic growth in the city, part of its commitment to sustainable tourism in destination Barcelona.

All latest news

Main projects

Municipal government tourism policy is represented by three priority projects:

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Strategic Planning

Strategic planning 2020.

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City and Tourism Council

A citizen participation organ created for organisations, associations and political representatives to exchange views and put forward ideas on improving the implementation and development of tourism in Barcelona.

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Data and Studies

Shared knowledge is an essential tool in addressing the debate on tourism in the city. So data is being made available to citizens, entities, companies and administrations.

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Meet Barcelona

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Responsible and sustainable tourism

Barcelona wants its citizens and visitors to enjoy the city in a responsible and sustainable way and therefore promotes tourism based on commitment and respect.

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Special Tourist Accommodation Plan (PEUAT)

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Barcelona and the tourism

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Visit Barcelona : Routes

Barcelona is a multi-faceted city. We suggest a series of routes for everybody's tastes, converting each one into a journey!

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Discover what's on in Barcelona: music, sport, popular festivals, theatre and dance, fairs and congresses, children's activities and more.

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Useful Apps

The best apps for visiting, seeing getting the most out of Barcelona!

Recommended websites

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Visit Barcelona

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Barcelona is much more

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Catalunya Tourism

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Turisme de Barcelona Consortium

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Diputació de Barcelona - Tourism

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Generalitat de Catalunya - Tourism

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Biosphere Responible Tourism

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World Tourism Organization

Consult us on anything of interest to you

Leave us your suggestion or query

Barcelona City Council Open data

More information

Click here for more information

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  • Barcelona Card
  • Parks and Squares
  • Image galleries
  • Guided tours in the districts
  • Guided tours within sights
  • Tapas and gourmet tours
  • Modernisme and Gaudi Tours
  • Family and children's tours
  • Literary and film tours
  • Barcelona's dark side
  • Tour proposals
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Boat tours and water sports
  • Cable cars in Barcelona
  • Segway Tour
  • Helicopter Flights
  • Ferrari Ride
  • Airport Transfers
  • Use of public transport in Barcelona
  • Cruise Port and Ferry Transfers
  • Driving and parking
  • Destinations outside of Barcelona
  • Flamenco Shows
  • Restaurants
  • Concerts, Theatre, Movie
  • City tours and excursions for families
  • Make your own mosaic souvenir
  • PortAventura amusement park
  • Horseback riding
  • GPS-GoCar Tours
  • Luxury hotels in Barcelona
  • Middle class hotels in Barcelona
  • Low Budget Hotels in Barcelona
  • Holiday homes in Barcelona
  • Wellness Hotels in Barcelona
  • Montserrat Monastery
  • Dalí and the Dalinian Triangle
  • Balloon Ride
  • Roca Village Outlet
  • Estrella Damm brewery tour
  • Costa Brava
  • Amusement park PortAventura
  • Wine and Cava
  • Formula 1 and MotoGP in Catalonia
  • Pyrenees and Vall de Núria
  • Cooking courses
  • Mosaic course
  • Cocktail course
  • PADI Diving course
  • Sailing courses
  • Climate and travel periods
  • Tourist information
  • City map of Barcelona
  • Barcelona currently
  • Disabled people
  • Catalonian recipes
  • Personalities
  • Luggage Storage
  • Holiday information A-Z
  • Camp Nou, the largest football stadium in Europe
  • FC Barcelona History

Tourist information centres

Several tourist information in barcelona - opening hours and where to find.

Tourist information at airport terminal T1

Tourist information at airport terminal T1

At the tourist information offices, you can get free city maps and metro maps, information about events, and attractions. The free maps are usually completely sufficient to navigate around Barcelona.

The following booked products can be collected at the tourist information offices upon presentation of the voucher (printed or on your smartphone):

  • Barcelona Card and Barcelona Card Express
  • Tickets for the Bus Turístic (the voucher can also be redeemed on the bus)
  • Hola BCN Tickets for public transportation
  • Articket Museum Pass

The staff at the tourist information centers speak, in addition to Spanish and Catalan, English as a matter of course, and sometimes other languages such as French or German.

Opening hours of the Tourist Information Centers

The largest tourist information center is located at Plaça Catalunya in the basement, opposite the gray department store El Cortes Inglés (corner of Pl. Catalunya/ C. de Fontanella). There is an escalator at each entrance to access the basement.

In the shop, you'll find plenty of high-quality souvenirs: T-shirts, hats, mugs, calendars, scarves, books, and much more.

Our tip: The queues at the advisory counters can often be quite long, but with a voucher (either printed or on your smartphone), you can also collect your booked tickets and cards directly at the checkout in the shop. This way, you save yourself the waiting times.

For wheelchair users, there is a stairlift available to access the basement.

Tel.: +34 932 853 834 Metro: Catalunya (L1, L3, C1, L7, S1, S55, L6) Bus: 16, 17, 24, 41, 42, 55, and 58 FGC trains: Catalunya

Opening hours

  • Daily: 08:30 - 20:30
  • 24 and 31 Dec., 5 Jan.: 08:30 - 18:30
  • 26. Dec. and 06 Jan.: 08:30 - 13:30
  • 01 Jan.: 10:00 - 14:30
  • 25. Dec.: closed

In the arrival halls of Terminals T1 and T2B, you will find a tourist information stand each.

In Terminal T1: Exit the security area and immediately turn right. After about 50 meters, you will find the Tourist Info. It is located right next to the entrance to the airport chapel.

Terminal 2B: The Tourist Info is located about 50 meters to the left of the exit from the security area in the middle of the hall.

You will also find an additional Tourist Info in the lobbies of the L9 metro station in Terminal T1.

  • Airport Terminal T1 Mondays - Fridays: 8:00 - 20:30 Saturdays and Sundays: 08:30 - 20:30 24, 26 and 31 Dec., 5 Jan.: 08:30 - 13:30 25 Dez., 1 and 6 Jan.: closed
  • Airport Terminal T2 Mondays - Saturdays: 08:00-20:30 Sundays: 08:30 - 20:30 24, 26 and 31 Dec., 5 and 6 Jan.: 08:30 - 13:30 1 Jan.: 10:00 - 14:30 25 Dec. closed
  • Lobby Metro L9 at Terminal T1 and T2 Mondays - Sundays: 08:30 - 14:30 5 Jan.: 09:00 - 18:00 6 Jan.: 09:00 - 16:00 24, 25, 26 and 31 Dec., 1. Jan.: closed

In the heart of the Gothic Quarter, opposite the Cathedral, you will find the Tourist Info on the ground floor of the building at Pla de la Seu.

  • Mondays: 09:00 - 16:00
  • Tuesdays - Saturdays: 09:00 - 17:30
  • Sundays: 09:00 - 14:00
  • 24, 25, 26 and 31 Dec. and 1 Jan.: closed
  • 05 Jan.: 09:00 - 18:00
  • 06 Jan.: 09:00 - 16:00

At the Columbus Monument , you will find two tourist information centers. Both are conveniently located if you arrive by cruise ship. Mirador de Colom (basement of the monument) This is located in the basement of the monument and has a small shop. A ride to the approximately 60-meter-high viewing platform is very nice. From up there, you can see the Gothic Quarter and the Raval, Montjuïc, and the port. Downstairs, you can enjoy a wine tasting of Catalan wines. Here you can get tickets for the Monument a Colom .

Metro: Drassanes (L3)

  • Daily: 08:30 - 14:30 (Last admission to the observation platform is at 13:30)
  • 26, 31 Dec. and 05. Jan.: 08:30 - 13:30
  • 24 and 25 Dec., 01 and 06 Jan.: closed

Cabin at the Columbus Monument and Rambla At the Columbus Monument towards the port, you'll find a tourist information booth housed in a container. This is ideal if you arrive by cruise ship. Just a few meters away, the Portbús shuttle bus stops, connecting the cruise terminals with the city center. From here, you can easily walk up La Rambla, continue with the sightseeing bus of Bus Turístic , or use the metro, where you'll enjoy free travel with the Barcelona Card .

  • Daily: 08:30 - 14:30
  • 25 Dec.: closed
  • 26 Dec.: 08:30 - 13:30
  • 31 Dec.: 08:30 - 13.30
  • 05 Jan.: 08:30 - 14:30
  • 06 Jan.: 08:30 - 13:30

If you arrive by bus (long-distance buses or shuttle buses to Girona Airport), you'll arrive at the Estació del Nord bus station. The tourist information is located inside the building.

  • Mondays - Sundays: 08:30 - 14:00

In the middle of the Gothic Quarter, opposite the cathedral, is the "Col·legi d'Arquitectes de Catalunya", the Chamber of Architects of Catalonia. You can recognize the building by the drawings by Picasso, at the gray building.

The Tourist Info is located on the ground floor of the building at Plaça Nova, 5.

  • Mondays: 10:00 - 15:00
  • Tuesdays: 10:00 - 14:00
  • Wednesdays - Saturdays: 10:00 - 20:00
  • Sundays: 10:00 - 15:00

The information booths are located throughout the city. Vouchers cannot be redeemed here.

  • Cabina Colom Address: Plaça Portal de la Pau, s/n. Opening hours: daily 08:00 - 14:30
  • Cabina Plaça de Catalunya City Tour Address: Plaç de Catalunya Opening hours: daily 08:30 - 20:00
  • Cabina Plaça de Catalunya Nord Address: Plaça de Catalunya, s/n (in front of the "El Corte Inglés" department store) Opening hours: Mondays and Sundays 08:30 Uhr - 14:30, Tuesdays - Saturdays 08:30 - 20:00
  • Cabina Plaça de Catalunya Sud Address: Plaça de Catalunya, s/n (in front of the "El Triangle" department store) Opening hours: daily 08:30 Uhr - 20:00
  • Cabina Plaça Espanya Address: Plaça Espanya/ Maria Cristina Av. Opening hours: daily 08:30 Uhr - 14:30
  • Cabina Sagrada Família Address: Plaça de la Sagrada Família Opening hours: daily 08:30 Uhr - 20:00
  • Cabina Sagrada Família 2 Address: Plaça de la Sagrada Família Opening hours: Mondays bis samstags 08:30 - 20:00, Sundays 08:30 - 14:30

Christmas opening times:

  • 24 Dec.: 08:30 - 18:30 (Plaça Catalunya Nord & Colom, 8:30 - 14:30)
  • 25 Dec.: geschlossen
  • 31 Dec.: 08.30 - 13:30 (Plaça de Catalunya Sud & City Tour, 08:30 - 18:30)
  • 01 Dec.: closed (Sagrada Família 2 & Colom, 10:00 - 14.30)
  • 05 Jan.: 8:30 - 18:30 (Plaça de Catalunya Nord, Plaça Catalunya Sud & Colom, 08:30 - 14:30; Plaça Espanya, 08.30 - 13:30)
  • 06 Jan.: 08:30 - 13:30 (Plaça Espanya, closed)

The opening hours may change due to external circumstances.

All tourist information centers are wheelchair accessible. They are usually accessible at ground level or via stairlifts.

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  • 1 Districts
  • 2.1 When to visit
  • 2.2 With children
  • 2.3 Visitor information
  • 2.4 Tourist Passes
  • 4.1.1 Barcelona International Airport
  • 4.1.2 Girona–Costa Brava Airport
  • 4.1.3 Reus Airport
  • 4.2 By train
  • 4.3 By boat
  • 5.1.1 By metro
  • 5.1.2 By tram
  • 5.1.3 By train
  • 5.1.4 By bus
  • 5.2 By scooter
  • 5.3 By bicycle
  • 5.4 By segway
  • 5.5 On foot
  • 5.7 By taxi
  • 6.1 The old city
  • 6.2 Modernist architecture
  • 6.3 With children
  • 7.2 Festivals and events
  • 10.1 Dishes
  • 10.2 Food tours
  • 10.3 Areas to eat
  • 10.4 Groceries
  • 10.5 Restaurants
  • 14.1 Pickpockets
  • 14.3 Violent crimes
  • 14.4 Football
  • 14.6 Areas of caution
  • 14.7 Anti-tourism movement
  • 14.9 Public transportation
  • 14.10 Reporting crimes
  • 15.1 Hospitals
  • 15.2 Consulates

Barcelona is Spain 's second largest city, with a population of nearly two million people, and the capital of Catalonia . A major port on the northeastern Mediterranean coast of Spain, Barcelona has a wide variety of attractions that bring in tourists from around the globe. The many faces of Barcelona include the medieval Old Town, and the unique street grid resulting from 19th-century urban planning. The city has long sandy beaches and green parks on the hills, pretty much side-by-side. It is also famous for a number of prominent buildings, of which the most-known are by the architect Antoni Gaudí, including his Sagrada Família , which became Barcelona's symbol to many.

Founded more than 2,000 years ago as the ancient Roman town Barcino , Barcelona is as historic as it is modern, with a constant flow of projects changing the face of the city and long-standing penchant for design and innovation. Thanks to the wealth of attractions, a very well-developed accommodation base, a lively nightlife and a robust transportation system, Barcelona has become one of Europe's, and pretty much the world's, most popular tourist destinations.

Districts [ edit ]

Map

Understand [ edit ]

barcelona tourist info office

When to visit [ edit ]

August is probably the busiest time for tourists in Barcelona. However, many shops and restaurants are closed from early-August to early September. During this time, you will find the most expensive hotel rates (outside of conference times such as the Mobile World Congress), and the city is devoid of locals, as the vast majority of residents go on vacation in August and leave the heat and humidity to the hordes of arriving tourists. This is also one of the highest periods of home break-ins, as criminals know that many places are unoccupied for an entire month.

While Barcelona has decent, albeit crowded beaches, the locals will be very appreciative if visitors do not consider Barcelona a beach resort and absolutely do not wear beachwear when visiting churches, restaurants, etc. If you only want a beach, and a good beach at that, head south to Costa Daurada , north to Costa Brava or out to sea for the Balearic Islands .

Barcelona can be visited off-season and despite the cold weather, is a lovely city even in the winter months of January and February, as long as the possibility of rain is low. Given the high humidity, 19–23 °C (66–73 °F) is considered comfortable weather, which is usually the temperature from May to June, and from late August to October. These are the best times to visit the city. Anything warmer than this can feel too hot, and the period from November to April is quite chilly and at times gloomy.

With children [ edit ]

Toddler happiness is considered a public responsibility in Spain. In any public place, people around you will make every effort possible to make your toddler happy: whenever he or she looks bored or is crying, everyone does their best to entertain or to calm them. You will find a great list of things to do with children during your Barcelona visit.

Visitor information [ edit ]

  • 41.386803 2.170723 1 Tourist office at Plaça de Catalunya , Plaça de Catalunya, 17-S ( Metro: L1, L3. Bus: 9, 22, 28, 42, 47, 58, 66, 67, 68. Train: R4 ). 08:30-20:30 . This is the main tourist office in the city. ( updated Oct 2015 )
  • Tourist office at Plaça de Sant Jaume , Ciutat, 2 Ajuntament de Barcelona (City Hall) . M-F 08:30-20:30, Sa 09:00-21:00, Su and public holidays 09:00-14:00 . ( updated Dec 2017 )
  • Tourist office at Estació de Sants , Plaça dels Països Catalans ( Metro: L5,L3. Bus: 63,68 ). Daily 08:00-20:00 . ( updated Dec 2017 )
  • Tourist office at Aeroport del Prat ( Terminal 1 and 2. ). Daily 09:00-21:00 . ( updated Dec 2017 )

All tourist offices are closed on 1st January and 25th December. For a full list of tourist information points check the link above.

The department store El Corte Ingles publishes a free street map for tourists. You can pick a copy at the store, or at one of the many hotels in the city.

The Turisme de Barcelona site might be helpful.

Tourist Passes [ edit ]

Barcelona Card . This card gives free entry to more than 25 museums and other sites in Barcelona. For over 70 moresites it offers various kinds of discounts. It also includes a travel pass for public transport in Barcelona (for details see Hola BCN! card below). The card is available for purchase for periods of 2 to 5 days. If you don't plan to see lots of museums every day, then it may be cheaper to buy transport-only tickets (see below ), and if you spend a lot of time in the largest museums, the Barcelona Art Passport may be better value. This card cannot be used on the cable cars or funiculars (except for Montjuïc). In general, if you plan to see only the famous highlights and don't visit museums, this card is not worth the hefty price or the hassle. Plenty of travel websites recommend and promote these kind of discount cards because they receive a commission. You should also remember that many museums offer free or discounted admission if you are over 65. From €27 for a Barcelona Card Express (2-day), up to €77.00 for a 5-day card (5% discount if bought online in advance); a version for children is available as well . ( updated Mar 2024 )

Artiticket Barcelona ( Art Passport ), ☏ +34 934 439 470 , [email protected] . This is an Art Passport covering six of the main art museums. Namely; MACBA; Museu Picasso; CCCB; Fundació Antoni Tàpies; Fundació Joan Miró; Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya. It is valid for one year and comes in a passport style book. It does not include any public transport. €38 . ( updated Mar 2024 )

Barcelona City Pass . a package that combines preferential skip the line tickets and use of the hop-on hop-off bus in Barcelona. This city pass package could save you money during your visit, only if you heavily use it. €85.00+ . ( updated Mar 2024 )

Talk [ edit ]

barcelona tourist info office

Barcelona's official languages are Catalan and Spanish . About a half prefer to speak Catalan, a vast majority understands it, and virtually everyone knows Spanish. However, most signs are indicated only in Catalan because it is established by law as the first official language. Yet, Spanish is also widely used in public transport and other facilities. Regular announcements in the Metro are made only in Catalan, but unplanned disruptions are announced by an automated system in a wide variety of languages including Spanish, English, French, Arabic and Japanese. On the other hand, FGC announcements – either regular or disruptions – will be made only in Catalan, and disruption announcements on RENFE's network will usually be made only in Spanish. As in most other cities, any attempt by visitors to use the native languages is always appreciated. Most locals are bilingual in Catalan and Spanish, and instinctively address foreigners in Spanish. Catalan is a separate Romance language, not a dialect, and sounds closer to Italian, Portuguese and French in many ways. Avoid referring to Catalan as a dialect, which will offend Catalans.

You might find some locals answer in Catalan after being asked in Spanish, that's not because they are being rude but because they assume you are bilingual. In Catalonia, it's not uncommon to hear people code switching between different languages in the same conversation. In case you can't understand what they are saying, tell them you don't speak Catalan and politely ask them to repeat it in Spanish or English.

The main cause of Spanish and Catalan social bilingualism in modern Catalonia is a large scale immigration process from the rest of Spain, which occurred over the 20th century, as Catalonia started a significant industrialization which demanded an increased workforce from elsewhere. 60% of the people in Catalonia use Spanish as their first language, and 40% use Catalan. The issues regarding language, national identity, and politics are like politics anywhere.

In tourist areas, almost all shops and bars have some English speaking staff. People will generally make an effort to try to help you if you speak English. If you are a native English speaker, you will have few problems, as Barcelona hosts many tourists.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

barcelona tourist info office

The main airport is 41.296944 2.078333 1 Barcelona El Prat ( BCN  IATA ). Some low-cost carriers, notably Ryanair, use the airports of Girona ( GRO  IATA ), nearly 100 km (62 mi) to the north, or Reus ( REU  IATA ), around the same distance to the south, instead. Since Ryanair started operating at BCN, you should check carefully where your flight goes. The three-letter IATA code should be part of your booking process.

Barcelona International Airport [ edit ]

Barcelona International Airport ( BCN  IATA ), also known as El Prat , is a major transport hub, with flights from all over Europe and beyond. To get to the city centre, there are different options. Both terminals have a metro station and the ticket machines before the turnstiles will sell you a Billet aeroport ticket to anywhere in the city by metro (only)for €5.50. You can also reach Barcelona's city centre by train or by bus with a T-casual on a T-mobilitat contactless card. This costs €12.15 for 10 journeys on any Suburban Train (Rodalies), metro (not from the airport) , tram, or bus in the metropolitan area of Barcelona, and cannot be shared by more than one person. It is also much cheaper than the Aerobus (€6.75 for a single journey). The train leaves from Terminal 2, and there is a free shuttle from Terminal 1 to terminal 2. Trains run every 30 minutes until around midnight. If you arrive on a late flight, you can get into Barcelona using the N18 night bus, which stops at Plaça d'Espanya on its way to Plaça Catalunya. See the Public Transport section in Get Around below for more information on tickets & passes as there were major changes in 2023.

Girona–Costa Brava Airport [ edit ]

The Barcelona Bus service runs a shuttle bus from Estació del Nord (which is walking distance to the Arc de Triomf metro stop) in Barcelona to Girona Airport, synchronised with various flight times. A one-way ticket costs €16 and a return ticket costs €25. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. Timetables are available online . You can also take a train (you can choose between local Rodalies , Media Distancia and high speed AVE trains with different travel times and price points) to Girona main train station and a local bus from there to the airport.

Reus Airport [ edit ]

The easiest way is to get there is to take the bus run by Hispano Igualadina from the Barcelona Sants bus station to the airport. Bus departures are synchronized with Ryanair plane departures/arrivals. One way ticket costs €13 and a return ticket costs €24. The journey takes from 1 hr 30 min to 1 hr 45 min, depending on the traffic on the motorway. Timetables are available online [dead link] . A slightly cheaper, yet longer option is to take a train from Barcelona Sants station to Reus and then the local bus no. 50 to the airport. The train costs €7.25 and then the bus costs €2.5. This takes about 2½ hours. Train timetables can be checked at Renfe's website and the bus timetable is available at the website of Reus public transport.

barcelona tourist info office

By train [ edit ]

barcelona tourist info office

Direct regular high-speed train service goes to destinations in France. In addition to two daily TGV services from Paris (travel time ~7 hr to Barcelona), there is a daily service from Lyon (5 hr), and a daily service from Marseille (4 hr). Prices start at €39, so even though the train could take longer than a flight, it is often a cheaper, more relaxed alternative and less climately harmful option.

The former Talgo trains from Montpellier to Barcelona and Cartagena via Portbou ceased to run when direct high speed services started. It is still possible to travel via Cerbère/Portbou using local trains, but it's cumbersome, painfully slow and timetable coordination at the border is awful; however it may be the only alternative if all TGVs are fully booked. Also, if booked in advance, TGV can be way cheaper than using these local trains. However, for travelers using Eurail and Interrail passes these local routes are a useful way to avoid the high additional reservation fees on the international TGVs, which can be almost as high as an advance-booked standalone ticket on some of the longer routes.

There is also a less-known rail line over the Pyrenees to Toulouse. There is roughly one train every 3 hours on the Spanish side and one every two or four on the French side, including a sleeper train from Paris (with a branch to Portbou which splits at Toulouse: check all timetables to see whether route is faster, it greatly depends on waiting times at the border). Purchasing tickets for this route can be tricky. The Spanish line is considered a commuter line despite being far away from Barcelona and does not appear in any global European timetable, so it is impossible to get an international CIV ticket, every portion must be purchased separately. Also, for southbound travel, the Latour-de-Carol station only sells SNCF tickets so the Spanish portion must be bought directly at the ticket inspector, cash only. The journey takes 7–8 hours (including transfer) and costs roughly €30.

The launch of the high-speed service spelled the end of the overnight sleeper-car service called Trenhotel between Barcelona and Paris. Trenhotels still do, however, run between Barcelona and Granada , A Coruña and Vigo .

The security checks are taken seriously and may take some time. Arrive in advance, and do not bring anything that could be interpreted as potential weapon as it may be destroyed (knife, tools…).

barcelona tourist info office

By boat [ edit ]

The city's port is one of the busiest on the Mediterranean.

Large cruise ships dock 1–2 km (0.62–1.24 mi) to the southwest. Many of them offer bus-shuttles to locations at the south end of La Rambla. The ferries dock almost directly on the Ramblas.

There are regular ferry connections with the Balearic Islands ( Alcúdia , Ciutadella de Menorca , Ibiza City , Sant Antoni de Portmany , Mahón , Palma de Mallorca ), Italy ( Genoa , Porto Torres and Civitavecchia for Rome ) and Tangier , in Morocco . From Rome ( Civitavecchia ) it is actually cheaper to take the ferry than a bus.

Some of the largest shipping companies includes Baleària , Grimaldi Lines and Trasmediterranea but there are several smaller companies as well.

By bus [ edit ]

Flixbus runs coach services between Barcelona Nord and London Victoria Coach Station, via Paris and Toulouse. They also connect to Amsterdam, Cologne, Brussels and many UK cities. They can be very cheap, but be prepared for a 24-26 hour coach ride from London! There is a small service fee. There may or may not be plug sockets or Wi-Fi on board. Flixbus recommend that you be at your departure point at least 30 minutes before departure time (except London Victoria where you are required to arrive 60 minutes before departure).

By car [ edit ]

Several main roads connect Barcelona to France and to the rest of Spain. Traffic is usually relatively light outside of peak hours. Free parking spaces can be found a few metro stops from the center of the city.

Blue parking spaces are paid M-Sa 09:00-14:00 and 16:00-20:00. At some crossroads, the pay time starts at 08:00. Anyone can use a blue space, but they aren't that easy to find. You pay at the meter and put the ticket on the dashboard. Green parking spaces are for residents only. White parking spaces are free at all times, but there aren't any in the city centre.

City car parks are found throughout the city.

Get around [ edit ]

By public transport [ edit ].

  • The public transport in the city and the surrounding area managed by Autoritat del Transport Metropolità (ATM) consortium who provide information about services by all operators. The whole area is covered by the Integrated Fare System , which is divided into 6 zones . This system includes the most of the public transport in the area: metro, city and intercity bus, tram and commuter trains. Like most major European cities Barcelona has moved to a rechargeable ticketing system called T-mobilitat. .

The city limits of Barcelona are completely inside zone 1. The public transport in the city is mostly operated by Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB). They have a separate site dedicated for tourists . Other operators in Barcelona are Rodalies de Catalunya  ; Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) & Tram .

T-mobilitat is a card or smartphone app that is the carrier of many of the contactless pass types below and can allow you to travel throughout the Barcelona metropolitan area.

There are three physical types.

  • Personal reloadable plastic card costing €4.50 that has to be registered. It is mainly aimed at local residents but people staying for an extended period may find it useful as it supports all pass types. If lost, it is possible to block the card and recover the passes on the card.
  • Anonymous reloadable cardboard cards which cost €0.50 and can only support one pass at a time. They can support T-casual, T-familier or T-grup passes. T-usual passes are also available on this type of card but can only be reloaded with T-usual passes. This is low cost option aimed at less frequent users like tourists.
  • NFC Smartphone app has a €1.00 registration fee. Supports all ticket types (but do you want to pull your phone out every time you want to validate a pass?)

Passes & tickets available:

  • Single ticket . A non-integrated ticket is valid only for single mode of transport of a specific operator: either bus, metro or funicular, etc. On buses you can use a contactless bank card without a physical ticket for one journey. €2.55 . ( updated Mar 2024 )
  • Billet aeroport Non-itegrated ticket for use on the metro between any point on the metro system and the airport. There are other tickets that can be used on metro line 9 at the airport, see below. €5.50.
  • Hola BCN! cards by TMB . For unlimited number of journeys for 2, 3, 4 or 5 days. They are valid for TMB metro and bus, tram, FGC and regional trains in the city and metropolitan area. You will find the T-casual and its sister passes better value. They are one of the passes valid on airport metro L9. not T-Mobilitat. 2-day card €17.50 . ( updated Mar 2024 )
  • T-casual. This pass is for a single-person for 10 single journeys. During each journey it's possible to make up to three transfers. The whole duration of a journey must be no more than 1hr 15min and within zone 1. The T-casual is the good option for tourists. It's more convenient than buying single tickets and better value than the single tickets for more than 4 trips. It's far cheaper than the various discount cards with free transportation option. And finally, it doesn't bind one to specific routes like the hop-on-hop-off buses. T-casual for Zone 1 €12.15.
  • T-familier. Multi-person pass valid for 8 journeys, valid for 30 days. To correctly share this pass, the number of validations must match the number of people traveling together. T-familier for 1 zone €20.30
  • T-grup. Multi-person pass for 70 journeys, valid for 30 days. To correctly share this pass, the number of validations must match the number of people traveling together. T-grup for zone 1 €85.80
  • T-dia Single-person pass with an unlimited number of integrated journeys for 24 hours. Only one round trip to/from the airport on the metro L9 is allowed. T-dia for zone 1 €11.20. (not issued on T-mobilitat)
  • T-usual Non-transferable single-person pass with an unlimited number of journeys on any means of transport within the integrated system, for 30 consecutive days as of the first use, for the number of zones purchased. You must enter your passport or identity card number when purchasing these passes and you must carry the identity document when using the pass. T-usual for zone 1 €21.35 (discounted price during 2024). If loaded onto a cardboard T-mobilitat card, only T-usual cards can be reloaded onto the card. This pass is valid for travel to/from the airport on metro L9.

During 2024 some T-usual cards are discounted so may be worth considering for shorter stays.

An operator independent travel planner is available on the Barcelona Government website. There is a tendancy for operators to emphasise thir own services on their maps.

By metro [ edit ]

Pay attention to the fact that to get from metro lines operated by TMB (   L1   ,   L2   ,   L3   ,   L4   ,   L5   ,   L9   /   L10   and   L11   ) to the ones operated by FGC (   L6   ,   L7   and   L8   ), or vice versa, you need to exit and then enter through a new pay-gate. In this case, if you had a one-journey ticket, you need to get a new one. If you used a multiple journey ticket you won't be charged for a second time when changing lines as long as you are within the stated travel time for a single journey. Also, you can't repeat operator, so you can't use a FGC ride to make a shortcut. For instance: changing to L9S to L1 via L8 using Fira and Espanya will charge you with two journeys, you should go via Torrassa instead although its way longer. All trains are air-conditioned, however metro stations themselves are not, so beware because the stations can become very hot during summer months.

By tram [ edit ]

There is one other tramway run by TMB but is not part of the integrated ticketing system: Tramvia Blau . This is a historic tram that connects to the Tibidabo Funecular. Unfortunately in 2024 it is closed for maintenance with bus 196 available as a replacement.

Regional suburban trains run through Barcelona and share ticketing with the modes of transport above. There are two operators: RENFE and FGC. Wrongly ignored by some tourists, they provide a useful additional mode of transport for getting across the city or connecting with mainline rail services and the airport.

Watch out, it is possible to travel beyond integrated fare Zone 1 on both systems. There is a good map on the FGC website showing all rail lines and the boundary of Zone 1.

barcelona tourist info office

The bus network in Barcelona is pretty extensive. Perhaps the best option in planning your route is to consult with one of the route planners mentioned above.

A major reorganisation of bus lines was completed in November 2018, so disregard old bus schedules and recheck routes. For example, bus line 92 to Park Güell, used by many tourists to get there after a visit to the Sagrada Familia, has been suspended, and a new line V15 stops there but takes a different route through the city centre (Passeig de Sant Joan).

Here are some tips for bus line codes:

  • Hxx lines run parallel to the coastline, low numbers run on the high side, high numbers on the sea side.
  • Vxx lines run from the beach to the hills, high numbers on the northern side (Besòs), low numbers on the southern (Llobregat).
  • Dxx lines run in a somewhat diagonal path, although interestingly none of these cover neither Diagonal or Meridiana avenues, the main oblique streets.
  • Mxx lines are found at the outer perimeter of metro coverage and link a metro stop to a neighbourhood lacking metro service.
  • Bxx lines run on the northern area outside Barcelona or linking Barcelona to neighbouring municipalities in the metropolitan area, B stands for Besòs river.
  • Lxx lines run on the southern area alike Bxx lines, L stands for Llobregat river.
  • Some municipalities have lines fully inside the town limits with two letters and a digit, theses two letters are reminiscent of the town name, such as BDx for Badalona and LHx for L'Hospitalet
  • Nxx lines run only at night when all other lines do not run, roughly from 23:00 to 6:00.
  • Cxx lines link Barcelona the various northern coastal Maresme towns up to Mataró.
  • Exx lines are express buses from Barcelona to various municipalities 10–60 km (6.2–37.3 mi) outside of the metropolitan area.
  • Lines with one or two digits without any letter follow historical routes from before the H-V-D schema.
  • Lines between 100 and 199 are usually very local lines served with low-capacity cars and poor frequency, 30 min or worse. Notable cases are line 111 to the Tibidabo amusement park, line 120 through Ciutat Vella, and line 150 to Olympic venues and the Montjuïc castle; others are mostly useless for tourists.
  • Line numbers from 200 upwards are used for some routes going outside the metropolitan area, while some others of the same kind have no number at all.

Buses H-V-D run about every 6–12 min weekdays, 15–20 min weekends.

Nitbus (N) run every 20 min all night. Information is available from AMB All Nitbuses (except N0 & N19) start or pass through Pl Catalunya

Take note that some lines have special fare restrictions: Barcelona cards (unlimited travel for 2 to 5 days) are valid only on Hxx, Vxx, Dxx and line numbers below 200. Fare 1 travelcards are not valid for Cxx, Exx and line numbers above 200 – actually, trips fully inside fare zone 1 are not permitted on these lines no matter what ticket is used. If you board any of these buses inside fare zone 1 you won't be able to get off until reaching another fare zone.

  • Barcelona Bus Turístic . This bus has three routes (map provided as you board), including a northbound and a southbound line that leave from opposite sides of the Plaça de Catalunya . Each takes 1–2 hours. The hop-on/hop-off format lets you get-off at any interesting stop, see what interests you, then get back on any later bus at that or any other stop. One approach is stay on for an entire route, then continue while getting off at locations that interested you earlier. Buses are double-decked, with the open-air upper deck offering much better views – but sunscreen is essential in summer months, jackets in winter, early spring and late autumn. Earphones are offered when you first get on so you can hear the commentary as you drive by significant locations. Outlets near every seat let you choose among many languages and playback volumes. The buses are very frequent. For a cheaper option with more flexibility in routes opt for the metro and the T-casual. Adult prices: 1 day ticket €33, 2 days €44; tickets can be bought at the bus stops, some hotels, etc. or online with 10% discount . ( updated Mar 2024 )

By scooter [ edit ]

Except for deliveries, electric scooters are forbidden on sidewalks and all pedestrian walks throughout Barcelona. Doing so may subject one to hefty fines, as well as frequent, audible disdain from pedestrians. Electric scooters are permitted in bicycle lanes, and may share the road with automobiles.

  • Mattia46 scooters for rent: 50cc to 200cc.
  • GoCar is a two-seater, 3 wheeled vehicle that runs with a 49cc engine. It is legally classified as a scooter to drive on the roads. The GoCars were created with the purpose of being rented to tourists as a different way to see a city.
  • Cooltra Motos Scooter rental. You can rent a moped for 1 day up to 1 month. You can also take a part in private or group tours.
  • BookYourMoto Scooter and motorcycle rental in Barcelona. Cheap motorbike hire in Barcelona.

By bicycle [ edit ]

  • Donkey Republic . The orange bikes of Donkey Republic are placed all around the city. Tourists can rent and unlock the bikes via the company's app 24 hours a day, which can lock and unlock the bike without internet connection. Bikes start at €12 per day.
  • Orangefox Bike Tours Barcelona . Bike rental in Barcelona. Best bike tours with live guides (7 languages) close Arc de Triomphe, Orangefox has different kinds of bikes & scooters. Bikes start at €5 per hour.
  • Barceloneta Bikes . Bike ship close to the harbour and the beaches, this company has different kinds of bikes & parts.
  • Budget Bikes . Quality Dutch bicycles on hire. Offers group reductions.
  • e-bikerent . Electric bike rental from €7-20 per day.
  • Mattia46 bikes & motos hire . Bikes and motors, 1 day (24 hr) on bike for €6.
  • Terra Diversions . Big selection of city bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, road bikes and children bikes in different sizes.
  • Perry Tours . Located in the old city of Barcelona offers Bicycles and guided bike tours around Barcelona with Dutch and English speaking guides.

Barcelona also has its own shared bike system, called BiCiNg. However, this appears to be only accessible for locals.

By segway [ edit ]

  • Barcelona Segway Day , Rull 2 08002 , ☏ +34 608 408 112 . Visit Barrio Gotic and Barceloneta. from €29 . ( updated May 2015 )

On foot [ edit ]

Barcelona is a very walkable city. It takes little over an hour to walk from Port Vell at the seaside to Park Güell at the foothills of the mountain range at the northeastern end of the city, and you can see a range of attractions, including La Rambla and Sagrada Família, on your way. There are opportunities all around to sit down and enjoy a drink or a meal everywhere. If you are fit, you can pretty much explore the city by foot alone, unless the heat beats you in the warmer months (and then you can always resort to the air-conditioned metro).

Parking around all major tourist destinations is expensive (€3/hour, €20-36/day) and the spaces are difficult to navigate, as there are several classes of public parking spaces, with complicated rules for each class. Barcelona is plagued with the same problems that plague other major European cities; massive traffic jams and extremely narrow streets in some areas, coupled with a very complicated road system. As such, driving yourself around is not recommended for tourists, especially those with no driving experience in large cities. Public transport will get you to all the major areas, and you should use that as your main mode of transport.

Having a driving map is essential - plan your route before you set off. Navigating with an average tourist map is frequently misleading: many streets are one-way; left turns are more rare than rights (and are unpredictable). As an example, Gran via de Les Corts Catalanes is actually a one-way northbound street between Espanya and Marina, the opposite direction is reserved for buses and taxis only.

Some free parking spots reported by travelers are:

  • Near Moll de Sant Bertran (which is south-west from Museu Maritim ) - driving at B–10, exit to WTC and make a complete round at roundabout, heading to warehouses - and park next to its employees cars.
  • Somewhere near Guell Park.
  • Near Font Màgica, in Plaça Espanya and the Montjuïc hill.

Getting around by car makes sense if you plan to spend much more time driving outside the city borders than inside it - and ideally if you don't plan to park overnight at all. Otherwise, for purely in-city transportation, consider renting a scooter, or using public transportation instead.

By taxi [ edit ]

As of January 2019, ride-sharing services such as Uber require at least one hour's notice. For less than one hour's notice, you need to call a regular taxi.

See [ edit ]

Map

The old city [ edit ]

Modernist architecture [ edit ].

barcelona tourist info office

The Ruta del Modernisme run by Modernisme Centre (Pl. de Catalunya, 17, subterráneo; phone +34 933 177 652) is a guidebook and discount voucher book that costs €12. It takes you to all the best Modernisme (art nouveau) buildings in Barcelona. The main part of the route can be walked in a couple of hours, if you don't stray too far from the main routes. The Tourist Offices offer a pack that includes discounted tickets to many attractions such as La Pedrera and La Casa Batlló. All can be seen from the outside for free.

  • Museum of Natural History in the Forum - Museu Blau
  • CosmoCaixa: Museum of Science Amazing museum for kids from 4-5 upwards. Adults will really enjoy it also.
  • Zoo and Parc de la Ciutadella.

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Do [ edit ]

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  • Cruise miles of beachfront boardwalk starting from Barceloneta, or get a tan on the beach. Eat good seafood and rice dishes at La Barceloneta neighbourhood
  • Sit on a wooden bridge to Maremagnum in Ciutat Vella and cool your toes at the water's edge with a book, sandwich, or just for a short rest.
  • Wander the Barri Gotic in Ciutat Vella , the largely intact medieval centre of the city and visit the Cathedral and its wonderful cloister.
  • Enjoy your Sangria at La Plaça Reial in Ciutat Vella , near La Rambla Street. Great place to sit, relax, and drink. (People from Barcelona do not drink sangria, it's just a tourist drink! But you can enjoy it anyway!)
  • Walk in El Born neighbourhood in Ciutat Vella , a former very popular area with great restaurants and places to have a few drinks. If your accommodation is on Rambla, El Born is a great place to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, and find more creative shops and craftsmen. El Born means jousting field, and its history and stories can fill one of those huge books stored in old libraries. There are interesting and quirky details to uncover while walking around, such as the name given to its streets, the medieval signs to brothels, and remnants of the secession war of the end of the 18th century. Indulge yourself at Hofman or Bubó bakeries and make sure you visit the Santa Maria del Mar church.
  • Visit a Flamenco Show in a real tablao. One of the best is Tablao de Carmen in Sants-Montjuïc . A cheaper alternative is in the jazzclub Jazz Si in Ciutat Vella . (Although Flamenco is mostly just a touristy activity, Catalan people are not into flamenco. It's a dance and music from Andalucía, the south-east region in Spain)
  • Cable car . Ride the Cable Way to get from the sea front to Montjuïc mountain in Sants-Montjuïc . €12.78 . ( updated Dec 2022 )
  • Sit and sip on a coffee in Plaça dels Àngels in Ciutat Vella , while admiring the whiteness of the MACBA and the best street skate tricks in town.
  • Catch a performance at the beautiful Teatre del Liceu or the Palau de la Musica Catalana , both in Ciutat Vella .
  • Rent a bike, or join a bike tour, and see the highlights of the city in a different way. Ride from the magic beaches of the Mediterranean to Gaudí's modernist buildings through the medieval atmosphere of the Gothic Quarter.
  • Sail 3 hours to see Barcelona from the sea.
  • Mail boats serve almost all populated in Barcelona, and are among the cheapest way, to reach many areas, though far from the fastest or most comfortable. The government has a mailboat schedule of routes online which may or may not reflect reality.
  • Sail on a classic yacht [dead link] . Enjoy a day trip sailing along the Barcelona coastline on a classic yacht.
  • Walk in Gracia neighbourhood, a very popular area with a great variety of restaurants, cafés and terraces where you can still feel the local ambiance that has already been lost in El Born.
  • For good views over Barcelona: visit Park Güell, Tibidabo, Montjuïc or Carmel's bunkers.
  • Artoba Tours , ☏ +34 656 855 866 , toll-free: +1 888 538 7377 , [email protected] . City and day tours of Barcelona and Catalonia led by a professional archaeologist. €54–200 pp, depending on tour . ( updated Feb 2020 )
  • Spanish Civil War tours , [email protected] . Walking tour of Barcelona visiting key sites relating to the Spanish Civil War, covering themes such as Anarchism, the International Brigades, George Orwell and the realities of daily life and bombing during the war. €30 pp . ( updated Feb 2024 )

Sports [ edit ]

  • FC Barcelona are the famous club, known for their iconic and politically-charged El Clásico rivalry with Real Madrid, playing in La Liga the top tier at Camp Nou (capacity 99,000), 1 km west of Sants railway station. Nearest Metro is Palau Reial. Their women's team plays in Liga F, their top tier, at Johan Cruyff Stadium west edge of the city.
  • RCD Espanyol were relegated in 2023 so they play in Segunda División the second tier. Their RCDE Stadium (capacity 40,500) is at the western edge of the city. No metro, take a bus towards Ave del Baix Llobregat.
  • 41.57 2.261 4 Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is a motor-racing circuit hosting Grand Prix / Formula One and other big events. It's in the northern suburb of Montmeló. The next F1 races are 21-23 June 2024.

Festivals and events [ edit ]

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Barcelona hosts a number of annual fiestas, many of which are unique to Catalonia and offer an insight into its distinctive culture.

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  • Corpus . Late in May (Corpus Christi day). An egg is put over the fountains (most of them in the churches, and decorated with flowers), and it "magically dances" over the water. Most of the churches are in the city centre: Cathedral's cloister, Santa Anna, Casa de l'Ardiaca, Museu Frederic Marés, and a dozen other fountains.  
  • Barcelona Jazz Festival . A brighter way to celebrate the colder Autumn days, the annual Jazz festival has been running for nearly 50 years now and runs roughly from the last week in October and all the way through November Tickets prices differ for each event .  
  • Revetlla de Sant Joan . This is the midsummer solstice celebration. It is celebrated on 23 June every year and is signified by the fireworks (there are frequent and loud amateur fireworks all night long, which may make it hard to sleep) that are permanently on display during this time.  

Learn [ edit ]

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For those wishing to make a real attempt at learning the language, there are plenty of Catalan and Spanish language schools in Barcelona.

  • Don Quijote . Spanish courses taught entirely in Spanish, even the beginner courses. ( updated Apr 2024 )
  • Linguaschools Barcelona . All year . Organizes Spanish courses for foreigners.  
  • Enforex ( in the Eixample neighbourhood ). 09:00–19:00, starting with a level test each Monday at 08:00 . Spanish courses: intensive or private. Minimum student age: 14 years.  
  • Olé Languages Barcelona , Av Mistral 14-16 Local 6 , ☏ +34 93 185 15 18 .  
  • Versión Original Barcelona , Gran Vía / Passeig de Gracia , ☏ +34 93 412 45 76 .  
  • FreeDa Language Space . Intensive Spanish and Catalan courses for foreigners.  
  • Barcelona Escuela Mediterráneo , Carrer Santa Mónica 2, 08001 Barcelona . School that is specialised in teaching Spanish as a foreign language.  

Buy [ edit ]

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Most shops and shopping malls are closed on Sundays because of law restrictions. In Ciutat Vella you will find plenty of small fashion shops, souvenir shops and small supermarkets open on Sundays. The souvenir shopping scattered throughout the Barri Gotic and all along La Rambla are tourist traps, none of them sell Catalan or Spanish products but the typical array of Chinese general souvenirs, they should be avoided. Moreover on the Port Vell, right at the end of The Ramblas there is Maremagnum, a shopping mall that stays open all Sundays.

If you see people selling items on the street on a blanket, do not buy from them. The products are often of dubious origin and low quality, and are often the result of human trafficking.

  • Secondhand English books in Gràcia .
  • Design lovers head for Gràcia .

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  • Stamps are actually sold in 'Tabacs' or tobacconists. Once you know what they look like, you'll notice them on every block or so. To post your mail, you need to find one of the rare yellow letter boxes along the sidewalks.
  • Records For vinyl records, try the wonderful shop Discos Revolver at 13 Carrer dels Tallers.
  • Supermarkets are spread across the city. BonÀrea, Bonpreu and Condis are the most popular supermarket chains from Catalonia. Mercadona, Consum, and Dia are other popular chains from the rest of Spain. All of them are a cost-effective way to purchase grocery items. There are also organic/specialty supermarkets like Casa Ametller or Veritas which are pricier. Small corner stores are the most visible on city streets, but tend to mark up prices in exchange for convenience.

Eat [ edit ]

As with all cities which welcome large numbers of tourists, Barcelona's cuisine is inconsistent in quality, but there are plenty of restaurants serving excellent food at very reasonable prices, if you know where to look. The usual rules of thumb apply: to save money and get better food, look for places off the beaten track used by fellow travellers, and seek out cafés and restaurants which the locals frequent. In practice, this usually involves searching out eateries in residential districts away from the main sightseeing attractions. Avoid restaurants with touts outside, and have a basic understanding of the traditional foods served in restaurants, as well as the local drinks. One slightly crafty way of sussing a place's authenticity at a glance is to take note of how they spell a certain word: a menu board advertising tap a s , written the Spanish/international way, is likely to be somewhere which primarily caters to tourists, whereas somewhere offering tap e s , using Catalan spelling, is in all probability a venue frequented by locals.

Some districts to check out include Gràcia , which is a hub of quality, affordable Catalan cooking of both the traditional and more avant-garde varieties, and the Eixample , whose chic boulevards have upscale restaurants aplenty worthy of your splurge money. The fishing quarter of Barceloneta (in Ciutat Vella ) is an example of a neighbourhood where it pays to be picky: closer to the gentrified seafront, a slew of mojito beach bar-style places serve up expensive tourist tapas; for the real thing, head into the backstreets, where many traditional bars are still tucked away. In all cases, be prepared to "promenade" in search of the most attractive-looking menu; that's what the locals do, after all.

Set menus (menú del migdia / menú del día) Most restaurants (and some bars) offer a menú del migdia / menú del día (menu of the day), which usually means a three course meal (a first plate often a salad or rice-based or pasta-based dish, a second plate usually a meat or fish, and a drink; plus a dessert or coffee), 3 or 4 options for each course, for €12 to €20, depending on the restaurant. The portions may be quite generous, or rather small. During the week, some smart restaurants offer lunch specials from 14:00 to 16:00. The savvy traveller will try the hip places for a fraction of the price during the day.

If you're looking for a place where everyone can choose their own meal, ask for restaurants that serve platos combinados , which is the closest thing to an American/Northern European meal.

Smoking is not permitted inside bars and restaurants since 2011, but it's usually allowed in terraces.

Dishes [ edit ]

barcelona tourist info office

You can get food from any part of the world in Barcelona, but make sure you try some Catalan food.

See Catalan cuisine section in the Catalonia article .

The selection of seafood is consistently great, although not a lot of it is local (this part of the Mediterranean is pretty well fished-out).

A treat to try that no travel guide mentions is waffles sold at street stands. They will tempt you with their mouth watering smell and taste.

Tapas restaurants are now all over the city (although tapas originated in Andalusia in the south of Spain). Each Spanish region has its native tapas; signature 'Catalonia' tapas is delicious. Some Catalans eat a more French-style three course meal (appetizer, main dish and dessert) and would more likely go for a pre-meal beer/vermouth and some snacks (olives, chips, etc.); others go for a meal entirely of tapas. This pre-meal snack is called 'fer el vermut' or 'making the vermouth'. As you travel to smaller towns in Catalonia outside of Barcelona, it is less likely that you will find tapas and more likely you'll see restaurants serving traditional Catalan food in three courses.

Beyond Catalan food, there is no shortage of durum or shawarma stands in Barcelona, offering tasty beef or chicken and salad in toasted flatbread for around €5. Gyros are delicious! You can also consider the Asian selection, with a lot of Chinese, Japanese and Indian restaurants. As with anywhere else, there are plenty of Italian restaurants, while Latin American offerings, particularly Argentine and Mexican , are well-represented too.

Food tours [ edit ]

If you feel lost in the variety of food choices there are – Catalan, Basque, Spanish, and beyond – it may be helpful to do a food tour to quickly get oriented. Many independent tour operators run food and wine tours in the city.

  • Barcelona Eat Local Food Tours , Hurtado 28 Barcelona, 08022 , ☏ +1 800 656 0713 . A family-owned business that showcases the best of Catalan gastronomy in off-the-beaten districts of Barcelona. ( updated Apr 2017 )

Areas to eat [ edit ]

Depending on where you are in the city, there may be restaurants galore, or none at all. The following areas tend to be restaurant "hubs", with a large variety of restaurants to choose from:

  • Barceloneta : A popular quarter for locals, where you can try fish based dishes, such as Paella (a name that may hide many different kinds of rice concoctions) or Arròs negre ( Black Rice ), that takes its colour because it is made using squid ink. Barceloneta is a very good place to eat tapas as well.
  • Sant Antoni is the new addition to the culinary scene in Barcelona where old and trendy cuisine mingle.
  • Eixample Esquerra (between Gran Via and Mallorca)
  • Barri Gòtic (especially for tapas)
  • "El Born" (next to Barri Gòtic)

Around Plaça Catalunya there are dozens of restaurants serving tapas . One should be careful with the tourist traps as the area is highly populated with tourists.

For budget eating you may choose "menú del migdia" in small bars on the Avinguda del Parallel for €9-11 per person. Be aware that sometimes the menu and the staff are only in Spanish.

The large cafes that line the Passeig de Gràcia and the Rambla Catalunya, just north of the Plaça Catalunya, offer a variety of acceptable tapas. This part of the town is quite touristy and a bit expensive.

Groceries [ edit ]

In several supermarkets you can find a wide stall with a great selection of ready-to-eat dishes. You can get a two-course lunch for less than €5.

Restaurants [ edit ]

  • Comer y no Bombas ( Location is variable ). Shares free vegan food.  
  • Juice bars . More and more the city is being populated by bars that serve organic/vegan food and cold-pressed juices.
  • El Glop . Three locations, in Eixample and Gràcia . Excellent mid-range Catalan meals. Allow about €20 per person, although you could get out of there for half of that if you let the price dictate your choice of dishes.  

Drink [ edit ]

Cafes [ edit ].

Try a " café con hielo " an espresso served with a glass of ice cubes on the side in any local 'cafeteria'. Cafes are found on each corner in Barcelona, and these days a conscious movement in favour of top quality coffee is changing the scene in the Catalan capital with a new trend in terms of coffee houses.

Bars [ edit ]

  • Chupitos are found in several locations throughout the city, including one in Barceloneta. Chupitos is Spanish for "shots" and offers hundreds of unique shots including the "Harry Potter" (a shot that sparks as cinnamon is sprinkled over it), and "Monica Lewinsky" (a variety of flaming shots) among others. As much a show as it is a place to get a drink, it's a fun night out.

Sleep [ edit ]

barcelona tourist info office

Barcelona offers a great range of accommodations, from cheap, decent apartments, hostels and guest-houses to five-star hotels. Every district has plentiful offerings, and thanks to the efficient public transportation you can stay comfortably in any of them, depending on your budget and preferences.

During festivals (see Festivals and events above), especially during Mobile World Congress , which is a major trade show at the Fira, accommodation in Barcelona and especially near the Fira is much more difficult to find and more expensive than usual.

  • Ciutat Vella offers a mix of luxury hotels and cheerful hostels within a dense urban environment. Staying there means being at the heart of Barcelona's nightlife - which is both lively and noisy.
  • Eixample and Gràcia and Sants-Montjuïc are calmer, but quite as dense, and popular due to closeness to attractions. You will find more mid-market properties there.
  • Sant Martí contains most of Barcelona's beaches and a string of very modern hotels along the Diagonal
  • The suburbs are not as far away as you may think thanks to the metro and local railway. Some hillside hotels offer great views, but may be far away from public transit though.

See the district articles for detailed listings of accommodation opportunities.

Connect [ edit ]

Barcelona has 5G from all Spanish carriers. Wi-Fi is widely available in public places and on transport.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Pickpockets [ edit ].

Pickpocketing is the most pressing issue for visitors to Barcelona. Never keep your wallet, cash or important documents in trouser pockets or in bag pockets: a money belt is an easy and inexpensive way to prevent being robbed. You will almost certainly be scoped out several times during your trip if you're in a tourist area or clearly don't fit in as a local, and it only takes a single momentary slip-up to lose your possessions. As always, be alert in crowded places, such as public transport, train and bus stations, La Rambla and Raval. If you are in a crowd, beware of anyone suspiciously or with no intention deliberately coming close to you.

Pickpockets usually work with more than one people, with one person using all kinds of tricks to distract you as their accomplices take action. The following are a few common methods:

  • At certain tourist hotspots, there are people who will try to show you a 'magic trick'. This involves tying a piece of string around your finger. While you are distracted (and your arm is effectively disabled), your wallet is stolen.
  • A milky or unpleasant liquid might be thrown on you. Strangers will come out of nowhere to help you clean it up. If this happens, immediately walk away, you are being pickpocketed.
  • East Asian visitors are interrupted by touts, who will showcase their "martial arts" on you by kicking your leg. While you are distracted, you will have been pickpocketed.
  • These people may also pose as a person looking for spare change, policemen who wishes to check your wallet for ID, or as tourists asking for directions.
  • Male travelers may be grabbed in the testicles by prostitutes or young female thieves. They will grab valuable possessions at the same time.
  • In the subway , a group of men will come out of seemingly nowhere while you attempt to enter a subway car and block your entrance and exit in a coordinated manner, effectively pinning you against the doors. They will act as if the car is just crowded and they are trying to get on as well, but, in reality, they have already gone through your pockets. They will quickly return to the platform just as the doors are closing, making you effectively trapped in the departing train. A more serious crime includes a person deliberately jamming the entry gate by inserting his subway card just as you are about to pass. His accomplice tries to 'help' you as the others are on your back snatching your items.
  • Under no circumstances should you leave your items unattended. While you are eating outside, a guy may babble near you asking for change with an unreadable poster in his hands and getting closer and closer to your smartphone until he eventually picks it up and passes it to a second guy that will run away with it. If you have a backpack or bag, don't place it on the ground without wrapping the loops around your leg or attaching it to the table using an S-Hook. Do not ask your friends to watch your luggage, thieves see ripe targets in people carrying too many bags, and will grab a carry-on bag and run.

If you need a police report to make an insurance claim for your stolen possessions, you can file a report online if you have no leads or witnesses. Police services generally expect you to provide a valid serial number to substantiate a theft allegation for electronic devices.

Scams [ edit ]

People in Barcelona are often very friendly and love to practice their English, so don't be unfriendly. That said, you should be suspicious if someone approaches you in a touristy area speaking your language and asking you for help. This should put your guard up immediately. Do not be tempted to sign their petition, give them directions, or help them with their problem. You don't know anything about where you are, since you're a tourist, so you won't be able to help them in any case.

Professional scam artists exhibiting a high degree of coordination are active in many areas of the city. Be careful in tourist areas. A variety of methods are employed, including the No-change trick . A common scam involves fake cops who will show up ask to see your passport, then take your belongings at the first opportunity. The story varies, but they are almost certainly not real ones. When it happens, the best strategy is to just walk away instead of starting any sort of conversations with them. Another trick is that one seemingly confused person will ask you for directions, diverting your attention and then suddenly fake police will appear asking for your ID. This is a co-ordinated move to divert the attention and steal whatever is possible. If such incident happens, just walk away, without listening to any of their conversation. Stay alert, especially in busy tourist area near the Sants station and Plaça d'Espanya.

Another popular scam happens in the metro. A group of scammers (often middle-aged women) will take advantage of the fuss while people are entering the metro and surround a tourist, frantically asking for directions. Most tourists won't know what to say while one of the scammers empties their pockets. They will try to confuse the tourist while the metro stays in the platform, and will get out just before the doors are closed. When you realize you've been scammed, the train will have already left and they will be safely outside with your belongings.

The bird excrement scam is also common. One or more accomplices will secretly spray or throw a smelly liquid on you. When you look up thinking a passing bird has pooped on you, they will run up to you and tell you that they saw a bird poop on you. They will offer to help you clean up, and while you are cleaning they will go through your pockets and any bags you have set down. It is wise to beware of anyone who is attempting to touch a complete stranger.

A version of Three Card Monte is one of many common scams played on Les Rambles. There are also people holding petitions to install a wheelchair lift in locations with a lot of stairs. Once your signature is obtained they will then aggressively ask for a donation. Sometimes there can be crowds of children demanding money with hardly anyone else in the area, making it difficult to get away.

Violent crimes [ edit ]

In 2019 there was a surge in violent crimes around Barcelona: in just the summer, there were almost as many violent deaths as there were for the whole previous year. While tourists are only occasionally targeted (and almost exclusively simple robberies), this should be not a going concern, many of these deaths are either drug-related or take place during drunken fights, so you are best advised to avoid such situations.

Football [ edit ]

Local club FC Barcelona (also known as "Barça", a term used by locals to refer strictly to the club and not the city) is seen as a symbol of Catalan nationalism, and has a very heated and politically-charged rivalry with Real Madrid, which is seen as a symbol of the Spanish state and ruling establishment, and violent confrontations between the supporters of both clubs have been known to occur. Avoid wearing Real Madrid shirts while you're in Barcelona, especially on matchdays, as that could result in you being singled out for violence by local fans. On the other hand, wearing an Atlético Madrid (the other Madrid club) shirt might get you some stares and some harmless teasing, but certainly no violent reactions.

Furthermore, the local Derbi barceloní between FC Barcelona and Espanyol is also a politically-charged one, as FC Barcelona is traditionally supported by Catalan independence supporters, while Espanyol is traditionally supported by those who wish to remain part of Spain. If you hear Barça and Espanyol fans having an argument, be careful, as things can quickly escalate.

ATMs [ edit ]

Barcelona offers ATMs in many locations. Many provide a wide range of services (withdrawals, transfers, mobile credit recharges, ticketing, etc.), and most accept ATM/debit/credit cards of various banks. Choose an ATM in a secure or highly-public space (e.g., in a bank lobby or airport terminal) to avoid machines modified by criminals to skim/video your card data or where you might be robbed after use. Ensure early in usage that the ATM supports a language you understand. For a full discussion of safe/effective charge/debit/ATM card usage and their cost trade-offs, They will charge you a usage fee on top of anything your bank charges you which should be declared on the screen before you proceed. see also Money .

Areas of caution [ edit ]

Be very careful in the Barcelona Sants train station where thieves prey on new arrivals, even on the platforms. In general, try to stay away from suburban trains ( cercanias in Spanish or rodalies in Catalan) late in the evening, as you may encounter young louts that disturb passengers, smoke, break windows and vandalize equipment. Don't rely too much on the railway security staff, as they prefer not to get involved, and by all means avoid messing with those troublemakers.

Women travelling alone should exercise caution while exploring the more isolated parts of Montjuïc. The city beaches, particularly the ones adjoining Barceloneta, have proven to be quite lucrative for bag snatchers. Anything that you would rather not lose is best left, locked, in your accommodation

Men traveling alone should expect the prostitutes on Les Rambles, St. Antoni, and Raval in the early hours to be very aggressive and in league with pickpockets and robbers.

Also, people need to be careful when leaving the bars of the Olympic Port late as there are many pickpockets around.

Be wary of wearing exposed jewelry such as gold chains and necklaces. People walking down a street may be attacked from behind by a snatch-and-run thief. Be especially careful of seedy looking men on bicycles, as snatch-and-run assaults can occur.

In the event of such a robbery, you will need to find the local police station to report the incident, especially if you are going to make a travel insurance claim. Don't expect any police action beyond the report, though, as these types of events are par for the course and arrests, even when made, almost never lead to prosecution due to a slow, antiquated, and overburdened legal system.

Parts of Barcelona are covered by closed circuit TV surveillance, but only the more popular spots.

Anti-tourism movement [ edit ]

Many Barcelona residents have the impression that there are too many tourists in Barcelona and that it has increased living costs, as landlords prefer to rent to tourists and not to locals to make more profit. Also, a lot of local shops have closed to make way for souvenir spots, so many locals feel they are being expelled from areas they have lived their whole life. In some areas, particularly the ones next to the beach where drunken tourists often stroll in swimming suits, there were anti-tourism demonstrations by locals, which had the backing of the Mayor of Barcelona. By October 2019, this movement had nearly disappeared.

Cars [ edit ]

Tourist drivers may attract special attention, such as Red light bag snatch or Flat tire scams

Public transportation [ edit ]

Besides being a particular pickpocket hot spot, there are plenty of fare evaders who will stick to you when crossing a fare barrier. Do not even attempt to block their way and let them pass, as many of them can be quite aggressive. Although stations are full of surveillance cameras, they are seldom used to either enforce fare payment or as a proof for filed assault charges, except in the most severe cases. Lack of staff in many stations and few ticket inspections effectively mean carte blanche for them. The fare evasion fine is just €50 if paid on spot, no matter how many times the culprit has previously been caught, and many fines remain unpaid because payment enforcement is legally cumbersome.

Reporting crimes [ edit ]

If you need to report a crime (for example, to claim on travel insurance), be prepared for the reality that in the downtown police station, officers generally do not speak English, even though the theft report form is in English, Spanish, and Catalan. The police station most often used to report theft is the one underneath Plaça Catalunya beside metro station, where they have some translators for common languages.

Cope [ edit ]

Hospitals [ edit ].

EU citizens can get free or reduced cost medical treatment on presentation of an EHIC card and passport.

  • Hospital Clinic I Provincial De Barcelona , C/ Villarroel 170 ( Metro Stn Hospital Clinic (Line 5) ), ☏ +34 932 275 400 .  

Consulates [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ].

Day trips from Barcelona include:

  • Canet de Mar - Is small enough to walk almost anywhere. See the historical centre, the churches and cathedral, and visit many architectural works of Lluís Domènech i Montaner. Canet is the smallest town in Catalonia with many historical and modernist buildings. It also has a lot of blue flag beaches, recognised at the European level for their quality.
  • Colònia Güell — is a tiny settlement famous for its modernist architecture. It is on the railway to Montserrat .
  • Costa Brava - The coast North of Barcelona has rocky cliffs and a mix of pebble beaches and sandy beaches.
  • Figueres - Home of the most impressive Salvador Dalí museum.
  • Girona - A quiet town with an ancient Jewish section, narrow streets, imposing walls and plenty of cafes. See directions to the north airport above.
  • Montseny - UNESCO Biosphere Reserve 40 km (25 mi) northeast of Barcelona. Go there by car or bus/train
  • Montserrat - Visit the monastery nestled high in the mountains to see the Black Madonna or hike to the peak to earn a fantastic view of the surroundings. 50 km (31 mi) from Barcelona.
  • Parc del Garraf - Large natural area southwest of Barcelona. Many hikes can be reached by train. Be sure to bring sun protection and plenty of water. (An eleven mile hike, with some decent elevation gain: Take train to Castelldefels station, head up to Castel de Castelldefels, follow trail about 5 miles to La Morella, where you can take in some great views. Trace your steps back half a mile, then continue southwest towards Playa Garraf. Playa Grarraf is right by the Garraf train station, allowing easy access back to Barcelona.)
  • Pyrenees - A mountain range around 150 km (93 mi) north from the city.
  • Sant Cugat del Valles - Has one of the most interesting Romanesque cloisters in Catalunya, with many interesting carvings. The town itself is full of expensive vilas.
  • Sitges - A traditional beachside destination for the locals. Full of fashion shops open on Sundays. Is a popular gay destination too.
  • Castelldefels - Another typical beachside destination for the locals. It is very popular for its wide range of gastronomy.
  • Tarragona - Old Roman period capital of eastern Spain, and today small seaside city off the tourist trail compared to Barcelona.
  • Visit the Nature parks in Barcelona province .

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Welcome to Barcelona Tourism!

Barcelona is a Mediterranean city alive and cosmopolitan, full of light and colour. You will discover the modernist route, the famous Catalan gastronomy and the creative corners that inspired geniuses like Gaudi, Miro or Dali… Come to visit Barcelona, it will hook you forever… BARCELONA INSPIRES YOU
  • Short trip to Port Aventura and Costa Caribe
  • Visit vineyards and wineries
  • Snow getaway
  • Nature getaways
  • Sitges, Monserrat, Cardona and Colonia Güell
  • Short trip to Figueras and Girona

Fira Barcelona

  • Facilities and access
  • Fairs and congresses
  • Lodging, restaurants and activities

BT Recommendations

  • Hotel Pulitzer
  • Activities in Barcelona
  • La Boquería Marketplace

At Barcelona Turismo you will find everything you need to enjoy your stay in Barcelona. We offer practical city information, its history, culture and also our recommendations for visiting Barcelona according to your personal preferences. This is why we have created specific sections like “What to see in Barcelona” or “Barcelona for you” where you will be able to choose the option that best adapts to your traveller profile.

Barcelona tourist guide

Choose any of these options from the menu in the upper side of the website or at “Barcelona’s Tourist Guide” located on the right side of it. If you found our website useful, do not forget to show your support on our social networks or send us your comments on any aspects we could improve on. You can also add our website to your favourite sites to be able to access faster in the future.

Besides, thanks to our cooperation agreement with Booking.com we offer the possibility of online booking in over than 2000 hotels in the city, offering the best price guaranteed for your stay. Through our contributors you will also be available to get arranged tours, unforgettable experiences or even making reservations for restaurants in Barcelona.

Barcelona Turismo thanks for visiting us.

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TOURIST GUIDE

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  • Useful Information
  • How to reach
  • Public Transport
  • Tourist Cards
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  • Areas of Barcelona
  • Barcelona in 2 days
  • Barcelona in 5 days
  • Sport events
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  • La Roca Village
  • Where to eat
  • Exclusive restaurants
  • Terrace views in Barcelona
  • Music and Films Festivals
  • Free Activities
  • Markets and fairs
  • Modernist route
  • Roman and Medieval routes
  • Wines and tapas
  • Parks and Gardens
  • Myths and Legends
  • Family vacations
  • Dog friendly vacations
  • Barcelona for beer lovers
  • For people with disabilities
  • Creative tourism
  • Original experiencies
  • Barcelona on wheels
  • La Cuina d’en Jordi
  • Barcelona Tourism video

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Travel Safe

View from Parc Güell in Barcelona (Catalonia)

A cosmopolitan city

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Gran Liceu Theatre

Location map

Basilica of La Sagrada Familia

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Casa Batlló

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Barcelona Cathedral

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Casa Milà "La Pedrera"

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Palau de la Música Catalana Auditorium

Rafael Vargas, 2009

Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA)

Germán Parga. FC Barcelona

Spotify Camp Nou

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National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC)

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Picasso Museum in Barcelona

Other ideas for your trip

10 sides of Barcelona to discover

You already know that Barcelona is Gaudí, the Mediterranean, culture, football… Now we invite you to discover other sides of Barcelona to make your trip unique.…

Firework display at the magic fountain in Barcelona

Barcelona, the Mecca of Gaudí modernism

It is impossible to speak about Barcelona without mentioning any work by Antoni Gaudí.…

Detail of Park Güell, Barcelona

What to see in Barcelona... according to Instagram

What happens if you search for the hashtag #Barcelona on Instagram? You'll see around 70 million posts!…

Tourists in Barcelona

Festival of Sant Jordi in Barcelona

Roses, books and lovers: Barcelona is full of them on 23 April. In Catalonia the World Book Day becomes an especially romantic festivity.…

Bouquet of roses on Sant Jordi day. Barcelona

Visit the Barcelona you don’t find in the guidebooks

Maritime enclaves, romantic streets, war bunkers, sweeping views, and even the underground city… Barcelona has delightful surprises, even if you think you know…

La Rambla, Barcelona

Spaces for alternative culture in Barcelona

Get your hipster gear on because we're going to Barcelona, one of the most avant-garde cities in Spain, where new trends seem to pop up every day.…

El Born Cultural and Memorial Centre.

Plans for discovering Catalonia from Barcelona

These are ideas for lucky people. Lucky because they travel to Barcelona and they can also spend a few days visiting other destinations in Catalonia,…

View of Cadaqués, Girona

B Cool, B Barcelona

Barcelona is cosmopolitan, multicultural, and a city that sets the trends. A destination for enjoying in the street and exploring by bicycle, where you can…

Born Antic, Barcelona

Barcelona in two days

The wide array of cultural and leisure activities make Barcelona one of the most visited cities in the world.…

Views of Barcelona

It is impossible to speak about Barcelona without mentioning any…

Tourists in Barcelona

What happens if you search for the hashtag #Barcelona on…

Bouquet of roses on Sant Jordi day. Barcelona

Roses, books and lovers: Barcelona is full of them on 23 April.…

La Rambla, Barcelona

Maritime enclaves, romantic streets, war bunkers, sweeping views,…

El Born Cultural and Memorial Centre.

Get your hipster gear on because we're going to Barcelona, one of…

View of Cadaqués, Girona

These are ideas for lucky people.…

Born Antic, Barcelona

Barcelona is cosmopolitan, multicultural, and a city that sets…

Views of Barcelona

The wide array of cultural and leisure activities make Barcelona…

Firework display at the magic fountain in Barcelona

You already know that Barcelona is Gaudí, the Mediterranean,…

How to get there - transport information

Select the means of transport to see how to get there or how to get around at your destination.

How to get to aeroplane

The Barcelona – El Prat Airport is located 12 kilometres from the city.

You can get to the centre in different ways, in journeys of around 35 minutes or less: Aerobús A1 and A2 lines, R2 Norte train line, urban bus line 46, lines 99, L77, PR1, PR2 and PR3; N17, N18 and N19 for night buses and taxis.

Road access to the airport is via the C-31 motorway. From the ring roads around the city, access is from the section known as the Pata Sur.

More information

How to get to train

Barcelona has two main railway stations

Barcelona - Sants Station : International high-speed train links to France and to Spanish cities such as Madrid, Valencia, Malaga, Seville and Zaragoza. Connects to Metro lines 3 and 5 and several bus routes (27, 78, 109, 115, D40, H10, V5 and V7).

França Station : You can easily leave the station by public transport: bus lines 47, 59, 120, D20, H14, V13, V15, V17 and V19, and metro line 4.

Ticket booking

How to get to bus

Barcelona has two main railway stations:

Barcelona Nord railway station , connection to the Arc de Triomf metro station (line 1) and bus routes 6, 54, H14, H16 and V21. Routes to Europe, Spain and Africa.

Barcelona-Sants railway station , connection to the Sants Estació metro station (lines 3 and 5) and bus routes 27, 78, 109, 115, D40, H10, V5 and V7. High-speed trains run from this station.  

How to get there by road

From France, on the AP-7, N-II and C-32 motorways.

From other areas of Spain, on the AP-7 and C-32 motorways.

Please note that large parts of Barcelona are Low-Emissions Zones, where driving and parking are restricted. If you are coming to Barcelona by car or motorbike, consult the Barcelona City Council website to find out about them. These restrictions also apply to vehicles with non-Spanish number plates. If you come in a vehicle with a non-Spanish number plate, you must register it and check whether it needs authorisation: More information is available at the following link . 

Vehicles with French environmental labels are considered to correspond to Spanish labels: More information at DGT website the table of equivalences of environmental ratings to find out what restrictions might affect you.

How to get to boat

The Port of Barcelona is about 5 kilometres from the city centre.

An internal bus route (88) goes all over the harbour area and connects to Avinguda Paral·lel, Metro lines 2 and 3, and bus routes D20, H14, V11, 21, 120 and 121.

Direct connection with Italy and Algeria.

Daily connections with the Balearic Islands

Practical information

We recommend using public transport.

Hola Barcelona: travel card with unlimited travel on the metro, bus, tram and train for 2, 3, 4 or 5 days. More information

Barcelona Card: tourist card with free or priority entrance, unlimited travel and other advantages for 3, 4 or 5 days. More information

Remember that on-street parking is metered and parking time is limited in certain areas. A large part of Barcelona is a Low-Emissions Zone, where driving and parking are restricted. visit Barcelona City Council website to find out about them.

These traffic restrictions also apply to vehicles with non-Spanish number plates. If you have a non-Spanish number plate, you must register it and check whether it needs authorisation: follow this link for more information. If you have a French environmental label, these are considered to correspond to Spanish labels: consult the DGT website table of equivalences to find out what restrictions might affect you.

How to get around in metro/tram

They usually run from 05:00 to 24:00. On Fridays and the eve of public holidays, until 2:00 a.m.; on Saturdays and Sundays, the service is offered 24 hours a day.

You can get a single ticket or travel cards per day, per number of journeys, for groups, or other options. More information

How to get around in bus

City buses usually run from 04:25 to 23:00.

There is a night bus service: Nit Bus. All night bus routes start or stop at or around Plaza de Catalunya.

Sightseeing bus with 2 routes, audio guides and unlimited use for 1 or 2 days.

How to get around in other means of transport

Taxi : easily identifiable yellow and black vehicles. A green light on the roof shows they are available.

Supplements are added for pick-up or drop-off at airports and for luggage.

Bicycle: : an unusual, different and sustainable way to get around Barcelona. The city is well-equipped with cycle lanes. There are many bike rental companies, plus the municipal service Bicing .

Excursions to nearby destinations

Costa Brava

Coves of deep blue sea, beaches of golden sand, natural parks, medieval tow...

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Located between the sea and the mountains, the city of Sitges (which belong...

' title=

There is an unusually-shaped mountain in the heart of Catalonia made from h...

Sebastián Pichler

Costa Daurada

The Mediterranean that bathes the Costa Dorada (Costa Daurada in Catalan) i...

Costa Daurada

In Tarragona, a City declared World Heritage, history comes out of the book...

Costa Daurada

Delta de l'Ebre Nature Reserve

It has been designated a European Destination of Excellence (EDEN) by the E...

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Known as the ‘City of the Four Rivers’, Girona's historic quarter is domina...

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Shows, festivals, sports...

View some of the most relevant events you will be able to enjoy at the destination.

The Amaral group during its performance of Guitar BCN

26 January 2024 - 26 July 2024

Revered and Feared Exhibition. Feminine power in art and beliefs at CaixaForum Madrid

Revered and feared. Feminine power in art and beliefs

21 February 2024 - 09 June 2024

An image of Primavera Sound 2018

Primavera Sound Barcelona

29 May 2024 - 02 June 2024

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Choose between thousands of activities to live your best life on holiday.

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Barcelona City guide

Tourism and attractions guide to barcelona, barcelona city guide.

Catalonia and Barcelona  have become one of the first tourist destinations of Spain, it has everything to please the majority of visitors: with a history among the oldest in Europe, a capital, Barcelona, which never sleeps and an inland full of charm not to forget beautiful beaches in La Costa Brava. The variety of artistic treasures, the Romanesque churches and the great names in modern art and architecture,  Dali ,  Gaudi ,  Miro ,  Picasso ..

Tip> We can help you find hotels in Barcelona close to the city's main monuments.

Barcelona  "The city of Marvels"...

Barcelona sited between the sea and the mountains, has found a formidable balance: a foot in the traditional things and the other in the avant-garde. Barcelona has the reputation of being the most cosmopolitan, modern and avant-garde city in Spain and it was renewed for the 1992 Olympic Games.

Barcelona Pass Skip the lines tickets to : Sagrada Familia & Park Güell + Hop-On Hop-Off Bus + 10% discount Book it now !

Barcelona GO!

BARCELONA in Flow Motion - A fast moving short film by Rob Whitworth. Gold prize winner at Timelapse Showfest 2014

While in Barcelona take a little time to visit Catalonia:

Costa Brava owes its name of "wild coast" to the uniqueness of the sudden encounter between mountain and sea. Nature, climate and history, the picturesque of its ports and certain villages have been enough to have a worldwide reputation. Costa Dorada , in the south of Barcelona, it is the color of gold, luminous, being in the maritime littoral the reason of its name "Costa Dorada" (Golden Coast).

The headings in this chapter " Barcelona City Guide " will enable you to book Barcelona tourist attractions before your arrival.

Tip! Tip! Think of the Hop On Hop Off Barcelona ! A good way to travel all over the city without ruining yourself and without getting tired ;-)

+ Find in Barcelona Tours   Top-rated guided tours with local experts and best skip the line tickets.

  And now follow the guide for the best places to visit in Barcelona !!!

There are a multitude of golf courses within reach of Barcelona....

A fantastic city!

Holidays in Barcelona are just fantastic. Between the exciting nightlife, the beautiful beachs, the stunning Modernisme architecture, the unique cuisine and much more to discover ins this file!!

City Breaks

The ideal city for a city break.

The Catalan's capital city is an ideal location for a city break, indeed, it is undoubtedly one of the world's best cities, featuring an incredible range of historic buildings, monuments, museums, shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. This is to discover in our Barcelona City Breaks file!

 this file

Genius of surrealism

Salvador Dali a Catalan and international artist

Culture, architecture, traditions..

Barcelona references marks : culture, architecture, traditions, cooking..

Visit our beautiful Catalonia regions

Tourist guide of Catalonia - discover the Costa Brava and the Costa Dorada.. All best sightseeings

Barcelona and Catalonia practical information

Barcelona and Catalonia general information and transportation : political institutions, Parliament, language, transportation, formalities, tips, useful numbers, health, money, budget, food and drink..

The genius modernist architect : Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, Park Güell..

Discovering Antoni Gaudí  the genius modernist architect: Sagrada Familia, Pedrera, Park Güell, Güell Palace, Casa Calvet...

Picasso, Miro, Tapies, Macba...

Listing of best museums in Barcelona : Picasso, Miro, Tapies, Macba...

Gay guide of Barcelona and Gay guide of Sitges : all information for your stay: hotels, hostels, clubs, restaurants, bars...

Car Parking

If you need to park your car in Barcelona , then we give you some recommendations and a number of options.

Festivals in Barcelona : The best music festivals and exhibitions in Barcelona  !

City visits

City visits of Barcelona: follow the guide with our suggested itineraries!!

Quick Guide

Barcelona Quick Guide . All you need for your Barcelona weekend...

Things to do in Barcelona

Off the beaten path, some ideas to visit differently.

This page gathers our favorites, practical information, tips that will allow you once in Barcelona to do, to discover and to see the city in another way. Have a good stay! 

With Children

Barcelona is one of the most child-friendly cities in Europe...

We Recommend >> Must-sees in Barcelona

These are the most recommended things to do in Barcelona for your holidays.

Barcelona Hotels

The ideal hotel for your stay.

Whether you are looking for a family or a business stay or just for a weekend, we have selected for you the best hotels in the city to choose from. All categories at all prices. But also the bargains according to your travel dates. Have a good stay!

Barcelona Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Best city tour: one single ticket, 3 routes and 45 stops.

Discover city sightseeing at your own pace with our selection of Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour tickets. An extraordinary and economic way to make the first connection with main tourist attractions.

Hola Transport Card

Unlimited access to public transport.

Enjoy unlimited access from 48 to 120 hours to Barcelona's public transport: Metro, bus (TMB), urban railway (FGC, Zone 1), Montjuïc funicular, tram (TRAM), regional railway (Rodalies de Cataluny) + 1 round trip from the airport to the city center. Only excluding NitBus, Aerobus & hop-on hop-off.

Barcelona City Pass

Incl. sagrada familia, park güell + hop-on hop-off...

The "City Pass Barcelona" our best selling pass! > Sagrada Família Fast Lane + Audioguide > Fast entrance to Park Güell + Audioguide > Hop-on Hop-off 24 or 48 hours or Casa Batlló or Casa Milà > 10% discount on other tours > Audioguide of Barcelona

37 comments

Travel - 02 wangmingru & 27 rao yujie (6 apr 2022 - 11:38).

Hi. We are students of English at Fujian University of Technology in China. In class, our teacher introduced us to the beautiful city of Barcelona and watched a video about Barcelona's scenic architecture, tourism and culture. Through the video, I learned that Barcelona is a world-renowned Mediterranean scenic tourist destination and a world-renowned historical and cultural city. I also saw that it is the most famous tourist destination in Spain, with its pleasant climate, beautiful scenery and monuments, as well as the "Pearl of the Iberian Peninsula". Everything there is artistic, the graffiti on the streets, the street food, the magnificent Romanesque buildings, and so on. Even the people of Barcelona say that "art and life are inseparable". Barcelona is full of art, and we are looking forward to it. We will come and see the beautiful city of Barcelona for ourselves some time.

Travel - linjie212,xiaopan206,ruihan231 (5 Apr 2022 - 08:36)

There's nowhere in the world like Barcelona. This city is magnetic. Food, Art, beaches, streets, buildings, and so on. Barcelona is all-inclusive. Summer is the best season to visit Barcelona because many festivals are celebrated in the summer, such as the European Music Festival. Barcelona is deeply proud of its Catalan heritage, which captivates me! Spaniards are elegant, even if they dress casually. Convenient traffic, a beautiful environment, and qualified talents are the advantages of Barcelona. As far as we know, if we have not seen the church of Barcelona, the trip to Barcelona is not complete. Therefore, this church also attracts us. Hopefully, after COVID-19 is over, we will be able to stroll through the streets of Barcelona and visit these famous churches.

travel - Yang Yinuo114 Chen Xin121 Zhou Yushu 123 (5 Apr 2022 - 08:36)

Hello, we are students from China. After browsing your website, we are interested in Barcelona. According to the information we got, Barcelona is also world famous because of Gaudi. We are very eager to have the opportunity to learn about the works left by this architectural genius, such as the famous architecture like Casa Vicens, Palau Guell, and Casa Milá. Can you offer us some suggestions for visiting these architectures? In addition, we have seen that Barcelona has a lot of delicious food and the island is surrounded by seawater, so we bet there are many desirable seafood dishes. Besides, we saw some flamenco dancing performances, which were very energetic. We hope that you will let us know about this kind of performance with Spanish passion and national spirit. I hope that we will be able to visit Barcelona after the epidemic is over.

Tavel - Yang Yinuo114 Zhou Yushu123 Chen Xin 121 (5 Apr 2022 - 08:36)

Travel - yu yunqin218 & tao kecheng222 (5 apr 2022 - 08:36).

Wow, so great! After browsing this website, we are particularly interested in Barcelona! Life in this city is really rich! In Barcelona, we can enjoy all kinds of Mediterranean cuisine and visit the art museum during the day. At night, the nightlife in Barcelona also attracts us. We can go to the bar to drink and listen to wonderful music, and we can dance in the discotheque. There are many special cultures that we really want to experience. We look forward to being here in person one day!

Travel - Linjie212 xiaopan206 ruihan231 (5 Apr 2022 - 08:36)

Travel - wang qiong 203 & xu chan221 (5 apr 2022 - 08:36).

Hello, we are Chinese students. We knew a little bit about Barcelona before. After your introduction, we have a better idea of it. Thanks to your website for giving us so many tips on visiting Barcelona. This guide is really useful for us. We have bookmarked this site and we hope we can use your guide on the day we go. We are looking forward to going to Barcelona.

comment - 08 Liu si qing 16 Wu seng ping 28 Jia mao zhen (5 Apr 2022 - 08:34)

Hello, everyone! Through this website, we have a simple and profound understanding of Barcelona. Barcelona has a long coastline. It has launched a "smoke-free beach" policy, which will better protect the environment. Besides, Catalan National Art Museum leaves a deep impression on us. There are the Renaissance and Baroque collections which attract us very much. Last but not least, music is everywhere. The Palace of Music has a stunning ornate appearance. There is a rule that photos cannot be taken during the performance. If you want to take pictures, you can do so before or after the performance. We are looking forward to going there one day.

comment - 08 Liu si qing 16 Wu sen ping 28 jia mao zhen (5 Apr 2022 - 08:34)

@zheng jiayi - barcelona.com (4 apr 2022 - 10:30).

Hello Zheng Jiayi, There is no taboo when visiting a religious place in Barcelona such as the Sagrada Família, but one must respect a dress code and have respectful behavior in the place. We find the same rules in many religious places in the world. Have a good stay in Catalonia,

Architecture - Zheng Jiayi216, Lai Xinying227 (4 Apr 2022 - 10:10)

Hi, we are Chinese students, after browsing this website, we have a further understanding of Barcelona and are deeply attracted by the ancient gorgeous architectural style of Barcelona. When we know that there are many famous artists in Barcelona, we are surprised by this kind of strong artistic atmosphere. I hope one day we can come to Barcelona and experience this atmosphere. By the way, we think many of the buildings in Barcelona have some religious elements, such as Barcelona Cathedral. However we are not very clear about religion, we wonder if there are any taboos when visiting?

Travel - Jianing224&Xiaoni226 (4 Apr 2022 - 10:08)

Costa Dorada, with its distinctive character and historical interest, is a place that I am longing for. The towns here have vineyards, olive groves, and even vegetable gardens that I would love to experience for myself. In addition, as far as we know, Barcelona has pickpockets, so the safety problem is one of our concerns. Besides, we are students who travel. The price is also something we need to consider. We are looking forward to the day of our trip to Barcelona.

living in Barca - zee (12 May 2019 - 14:12)

i am planning to live in this city ;)))

@jen harper - Barcelona.com (7 Mar 2019 - 09:20)

Hola jen harper, Barcelona is a city where people love to walk. The historical centre is not too extensive, you can visit it at any age without any problem. Of course, renting a segway or a bike makes it easier to get around. You can find some on this page of our website: https://www.barcelona.com/barcelona_city_tours/bike-tours-rentals/ Have a good journey!

Elder tourists - jen harper (7 Mar 2019 - 09:10)

How hard is the walking for elderly? Are there Segways or such to aid people?

thnks - all (18 Nov 2017 - 07:50)

from indonesia. just need visas europe . last week just trip asian. januari hope getting visas. i love BARCA

VERY HONEST TAXI DRIVER - Donna Lee (15 Nov 2017 - 08:28)

We had a great 2 week vacation in Spain but on our last night in Barcelona, we panicked when we realized that we left our luggage in the trunk of the taxi. Somehow I knew that the cab driver was a good man but we still prayed fervently that he will bring us back our luggage. ABDEL came back in 40 minutes!!! He sure reinstored our faith in the goodness of mankind. We commend ABDEL for his honesty. His cell is 691 073 391. May Abdel be blessed for his honesty.

I love tapas! - frank (18 Jul 2017 - 09:22)

can't wait to taste tapas and local natural wine... yeahhh coming soon!

food out let - jade (17 Sep 2016 - 09:34)

pls some can tell about the food outlet that available in this area when going baceolan i min tourism attraction too

barcelona - kamila (22 Jun 2016 - 09:28)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fj3MdixcAjQ Barcelona- top attractions

access for disabled - abegail (3 Apr 2016 - 10:50)

I have hopes of holidaying in Barcelona this summer, but have concerns about how disabled friendly the city is? any guidance will be welcome

Statue of Pablo Casals - Carol Wilson (17 Jun 2015 - 08:54)

On my recent visit to Barcelona, I was disappointed to see that the statue of Pablo Casals near Placa de Francesc Macia has been vandalised. The cello bow has been broken off. Hope it gets fixed soon.

barcelona is safe - sheraz (17 May 2015 - 08:24)

Hi, to everyone coming to barcelona must keep in mind that barcelona is very safe city. means there is no chance of armed robbery or snatching. but to be honest pick pockiting is a common issue for those who come out of the bars really drunk and lost and it is always up to you to take care of your belongings especially in central area and las ramblas. in subways again u have such issues because pickpockets move on groups, they don't attack on you but always look for a chance to steel. A little care and nothing happens. I m living in barcelona since 2004 and I never get robbed.

confused - james franco (12 May 2015 - 08:58)

Hi, I just came back from a 6 days holiday in Barcelona 2 weeks ago. I am a 29 years old solo female traveller from Singapore. I agree that pickpocket is an issue in Barcelona. however, I would also like to add on that this is also an issue in many other countries, not just Barcelona alone. I was pretty scared at first but I did not let it stop me from going there. Barcelona is a very beautiful city with interesting cultures and delicious food. It is very convenient to explore as you can literally walk anywhere without getting lost. Just bring common sense along and carry your bag in front of you at all times. Do not bring too much cash and keep the cash separately. I did not face any problems or seen any crimes there. I can say Barcelona is a pretty safe city, and I am going back again in February 2015.

beautiful city - ronald (29 Mar 2015 - 11:04)

i have been to Barcelona a few times ,,, it changes with the years, but retains its beauty. never had a problem with any of the citizens and i did most of my touring on foot. my hats off to the city of Barcelona

Pickpockets - BarceLover (9 Dec 2014 - 09:30)

Pickpockets - nancy d. (19 nov 2014 - 08:45).

Hi, Pickpockets are an issue in Barcelona, but the police, as Tony suggested, are part of the problem. It is actually the Spanish Laws that need to be changed. Unless a thief is caught with more than €480 in cash on them, it is not consider a felony or major crime. So, within a matter of hours the thief is back on the streets. There are lots of uncover policeman now working all parts of the city, security cameras in Metro stations and on platforms and in particular a strong police presence at the most visited sites. It is Barcelona's interest to clean up this issue and there is no one who would like that more than the locals. After all, tourism is one of the biggest economic motors of this beautiful seaside city.

Barcelona Travel Video - Jay Ellard (16 Aug 2014 - 10:45)

I have just been to the beautiful city and have created a modern cinematic video of the wonderful place. The video shows the most popular places in Barcelona and some of the quiet spots. Here is the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktArVmzb38U

transfer - Les (14 Nov 2013 - 09:30)

Does any one know if there is a bus service from the Pier to the Airport? Or, if there is any kind of service for transfer with a couple of suitcases?

Pickpockets - tony (24 Oct 2013 - 08:45)

Barcelona is one of the world's great cities, it has wonderful sights & a vibrant culture, great food & drink. It's a shame it's so corrupt ! 40 years ago, I went to Barcelona & was warned about pickpockets on Las Ramblas & now after all these years it's worse than ever, not good for the city's reputation. How can this problem still exist ?? the police MUST be part of the problem, & getting a kickback from the thieves, because if they wanted the thefts to stop, they would crack down & stop, but no, the pickpockets flourish year after year, praying on tourists & locals alike, on the streets & even in the Gaudi Cathedral Shame on you.....Clean up the problem !!

Street Art in Barcelona - Unknown (30 Sep 2013 - 09:00)

Details about street art in Barcelona. A different way of seeing this amazing city: http://vimeo.com/60149775

new luggage storage near Barcelona´s Port - Amparo (3 Jul 2013 - 19:30)

there is a new luggage storage called Hastavuelo in the World Trade Center, near Barcelona´s Port. Opened everyday from 9 am to 8pm. We offer airport delivery too, so if you want to visit Barcelona without worrying about your suitcases that´s the place!!

store your luggage - Alicia (15 Mar 2013 - 09:15)

Hi everyone, If you need to store your luggage while you're spending some time in Barcelona, you can leave it in City Lockers, we're in Francesc Pujols, 7 Street, near Portal de l' Àngel. We open from 9 a.m until 9 p.m on Monday to monday. Come to visit us!

about keeping luggage - LOCKER BARCELONA (27 Oct 2012 - 10:30)

Hello Maria, there is a left luggage place at plaza catalunya (downtown) close to the main transport stations. Is located at ESTRUC 36 street, is a safety blue and green local named Locker Barcelona, check their web so, you could ask for information. :)

Information about keeping luggage - Maria (5 Jul 2012 - 06:15)

Dear all, I am a tourist from Macedonia, coming to Spain this July. I will be touring Spain by bus. So, I'd like to ask you if there is a place in Barcelona to store your luggage. Since i'm staying several hours in Barcelona, sightseeing, I 'll need some safe place to store my suitcases. Does the bus station of any other place offer such services? And what are the fees per hour? Thank you in advance

Best tapas in Barcelona! - EleanorP (21 Jun 2012 - 09:30)

Hello, We have just returned home from a evening with 'Papa Serra'. He runs cooking classes and tours of la boqueria and we joined an evening course which lasted for about 4 hours - a great evening activity. We enjoyed the tour and the class, and all the wine tasting! But the highlight was a tapa we learnt to make - chicken poached in a saffron liquid and then mixed with pine nuts and raisins and wrapped in greens. It was absolutely delicious and definitely not something we've seen in any of the tapas bars in barcelona. I would recommend the classes to anyone that loves food and wants a fun night of cooking, eating and drinking. I think they have a website but i'm not sure. Enjoy!

useful information - dr jagtesh (29 Feb 2012 - 11:15)

this page is helping me in planning my trip to barcelona this april

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Tourist Information Offices

Wherever you are in Barcelona, there´s always a tourism office near you: the main office is located at Plaça de Catalunya, but there are many other information points located throughout the city.

Barcelona Airport also hosts information offices in both terminals. You can easily buy our Barcelona Card in advance and pick it up at the airport. An additional benefit is that you can use the airport train to the city.

Below is a list of tourism information points with contact details and addresses:

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Barcelona travel guide

When to go, what to do, and why you’ll love it.

Antoni Gaudí’s Casa Milà

B arcelona is a city bursting with colour and Mediterranean pizzazz. It’s a place where things have long been done differently — a home to the world’s most principled football team, to a beautiful, but entirely artificial beach, to logic-bending chefs, to Picasso and, above all, to Antoni Gaudí, that Willy Wonka of the architectural world.

Long inclined towards the avant garde, Spain’s second city (or Catalonia’s first, as defiant nationalists will tell you) also boasts unflagging, wide-ranging nightlife and a design-store scene to rival the best Nordic nations. Its art museums — including ones honouring Picasso and his fellow free-thinker Joan Miró — are exceptional, and there’s much for families to do.

Other, more subtle factors further the seduction; key sights are within walking distance of one another, there’s an array of stylish hotels, many with rooftop bars, a consequence of the density of life in the city and the winning climate. Best of all, for all its heavily trodden paths, Barcelona is a city where it feels as though you’re always on the point of discovering something new — perhaps a timeless jazz basement, a speakeasy hidden behind a fridge door or a secret garden square overflowing with charm and history.

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Spanish poet Federico García Lorca once called La Rambla “the only street in the world which I wish would never end”. Splitting Barcelona’s old town, this charismatic, kilometre-long boulevard — actually five consecutive boulevards, containing a central pathway below plane trees and sometimes collectively called Las Ramblas — offers up everything from living statues and markets to kaleidoscopic flower stalls.

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All the while, barrios beckon to either side: the Gothic Quarter’s twisting alleys and medieval cathedral; busy La Ribera, home to the Picasso Museum* ; bar-lined El Born; and multicultural El Raval, its striking contemporary-art gallery MACBA* evidence of a red-light district that is now (mostly) respectable.

North of Plaça de Catalunya sprawl Eixample and Gràcia, newer areas connected by the fashion-focused Passeig de Gràcia. This is where you’ll find the bulk of Barcelona’s impressive Modernisme architecture, led by esoteric Gaudí confections such as rippling Casa Batlló, quarry-like apartment block Casa Milà and the soaring, still-incomplete Sagrada Família basilica, plus his surreal take on green spaces, Parc Güell. Near the latter looms FC Barcelona’s iconic Camp Nou stadium, indelibly associated with legendary names including Cruyff, Maradona and Messi.

Try to find time to be beside the seaside. From Port Vell’s massive aquarium, stroll along the marina to Barceloneta, an old fishermen’s quarter now full of busy bars, then continue out along the promenade. Quieter the further north one ventures, all 5km of Barcelona’s clean, sandy beach were impressively installed before the 1992 Olympic Games.

Where to stay

From landmark hotels to genuinely cool hostels, Barcelona ticks every accommodation box. While views of La Rambla or Plaça de Catalunya will cost you, a bevy of excellent affordable hotels and mid-range boutique bases dot the nearby Gothic Quarter* . So too in La Ribera and neighbouring Sant Pere, handy for El Born’s nightlife, and indeed around up-and-coming but further-afield El Poble-sec.

El Raval — gentrified and trendy here, ramshackle there — pairs eclectic apartments and ubiquitous Airbnbs with opulent residences such as Hotel España Ramblas* , a revamped Modernista icon. More luxury digs await in Eixample, amid galleries and couture shops, as does a selection of hipper design hotels.

Just north, Gràcia’s small squares retain an authentic villagey atmosphere and suit families seeking privacy. There’s a whiff of that in La Barceloneta’s narrow-gridded interior too, on streets missed by most beach-bound tourists. Homestays proliferate; just along the seafront there are also a few bigger hotels with spas, pools and rooftop terraces.

Food and drink

Long-standing tapas dens or beachside chiringuitos (snack bars) emphasise simple but zesty fare, while masters of molecular gastronomy — Albert Adrià and the like — serve up remarkable delicacies in a sort of culinary channelling of Gaudí. In between you’ll find Galician seafood taverns, vanguard Japanese joints, “vegan junk-food” cafés and beautiful chocolate shops.

The most prevalent dish is a tapa called bombas. Supposedly inspired by Spanish Civil War bombs, it consists of potato and meat croquettes drizzled with spicy tomato aioli.

Eixample is a magnet for Michelin-starred restaurants and buzz-generating bistros. La Ribera, El Born and especially El Poble-sec hoard some funkier venues, while El Raval excels in bargain-priced backstreet dens. It pays here to do some research — reading not just travel guides, but also blogs by local foodies. For the finest seafood, stick to Barceloneta. You’ll also find lots of paella around this old fisherman’s quarter, including a local fideuà variant swapping rice for noodles.

The city’s range of bars is truly comprehensive, encompassing moody speakeasies (there’s talk of a speakeasy within a speakeasy, if you want to hunt that one out), sunset terraces and bars devoted to cava, Catalonia’s sparkling wine. Barceloneta’s tiny Can Paixano is a fine example of the latter.

A mile east of Barcelona central, Poblenou is overlooked by most tourists. Big mistake: similar to New York’s Meatpacking District, this ex-industrial area has been transformed. Once-derelict factories now host installation-art galleries, co-working spaces or airy, plant-filled concept stores, with the presence of Barcelona’s Design Museum cementing a youthful, creative vibe. Most peaceful sidestreets connect to the lively Rambla del Poblenou, a pedestrianised bar and restaurant-lined avenue that extends towards the northern end of Barcelona’s beachfront.

Above Port Vell hulks Montjuïc, a hill offering the best views over the city. Accompanying those are an old military fortress, botanic and sculpture gardens, the Olympic stadium, Catalunya’s national gallery (MNAC), another modern-art space in CaixaForum and the Joan Miró Foundation* . To avoid sweaty climbs and for the most photogenic ascent, get a harbour-crossing gondola halfway up from Barceloneta, then walk around and ride the Montjuïc Cable Car to that fortress.

Know before you go

In high summer, the city can be unbearably hot; it’s great for the beach and siestas, but less so for sightseeing. Bear in mind too that many shops or restaurants close as inhabitants leave on holiday. Late spring or early autumn, when temperatures fall to below 25C, is a much more pleasant time to visit Barcelona. Bring euros, including for the long metro ride to or from El Prat Airport. Though the city’s eight lines are clean, safe and reliable, coverage is not quite as extensive as other European cities, so days out can require careful planning. Pickpocketing is a long-established problem, so take the usual precautions and don’t flash phones, wallets or watches around.

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The ultimate (long) weekend in Barcelona

Sasha Brady

May 21, 2024 • 10 min read

Spain, Barcelona, Catalonia Catalunya, Ciutat Vella, historic center, El Born, Plaza Fossar de les Moreres, memorial square, buildings, flats, pedestrians, man, woman, Spanish Europe EU Eurozone,

Barcelona's El Born neighborhood is a great area to base yourself in © Getty Images

I jump at any chance to visit Barcelona , whether it's for a music festival like Primavera, catching up with friends, or enjoying a solo trip. I love relaxing on the sunny terrace of a tiny bar, people-watching over an ice-cold glass of vermouth and a plate of salty little snacks. That's one of my favorite activities anywhere, but it holds a special charm in Barcelona, where life is lived on the plazas, side streets and terraces.

There are so many ways to enjoy this city, but in a place as shiny and as fun as Barcelona, it's all too easy to get sucked into a tourist trap (especially along La Rambla ), as is the case with many popular destinations. To ensure you have a great time on your trip, I've crafted a four-day itinerary based on my personal recommendations gathered over years of exploring the city and sharing favorite spots with friends. Let's dig in.

  • When to visit: Offseason . It's sunny, the sea is still warm-ish, there are fewer crowds and it's much easier to navigate. 
  • How to get from the airport: The airport metro takes you directly from El Prat to any of the main central metro stations for €5.50. You can also get the airport shuttle bus for €2.40 to the city's center. It stops at Plaça de Catalunya , which has excellent city-wide connecting transport options .
  • Getting around town: You can quickly get from one part of the city to the next on the metro. If you're staying for a long weekend, the best value is the T-Casual card (10 metro rides in zone 1) for €12.15. Or, try the Hola Barcelona Card, which offers unlimited travel on the metro, bus, tram, funicular and airport transport for €25.50 for three days. Uber hasn't really taken off here, so download the Cabify app instead. I find Barcelona is best explored on foot, though, and you get to admire all the gorgeous architecture you'd otherwise miss if you were traveling in a car or underground on the metro.
  • Where to stay: My favorite neighborhood is Gràcia; I love the sunny squares that are filled with families at the weekend, the late-night salsa clubs and old independent boutiques. But if you're staying for a short time and want to be in the center of the action, I'd go with El Born. It's home to museums, tiny hotels, great restaurants and it's close to the beach. It's in the Old Town but removed from the raucousness of the Gothic Quarter. I also really like Eixample, it's quite touristy but really elegant and where you'll find Gaudí attractions like  Casa Batlló and  La Sagrada Família .

Plan a trip to Barcelona with our seasonal guide

Interior of Bar del Pla, Barcelona, where printed menus decorate the walls

Morning: Drop your bags off at your hotel in El Born and head straight to Mercat de Santa Caterina  for a sticky tortilla at Bar Joan . While most visitors go to  La Boqueria to jostle elbows with hordes of other tourists, Santa Caterina feels more like a local market where longtime residents shop for groceries. Afterward, chill by the lake in  Parc de la Ciutadella  or stroll towards Barceloneta Beach along Carrer de Circumval·lació, where food and crafts market stalls are set up along the street. 

How to spend the day: Back in El Born, visit the  Museum of Contemporary Art (Moco) , featuring works by Jean-Michel Basquiat, David LaChapelle and Salvador Dalí. I love the Yayoi Kusama mirror room because it feels very trippy, like floating in space. Then, head to the  Picasso Museum on the same street. The building is as much an attraction as the work exhibited; it's spread across five medieval palaces and feels very airy and calm. After consuming so much art in one day, I tend to feel overwhelmed (in a good way) and usually need to walk it off or sit in a cafe somewhere to process it all, so if you're like me, decompress at nearby Xiloteca with a coffee.

Dinner: If I lived in Barcelona, I'd eat at  Bar del Pla every week. Their small, perfectly crafted tapas menu focuses on quality ingredients, and the wine list is superb. Try the oxtail brioche and  picanya roast beef and definitely order the patatas bravas (potatoes in a spicy tomato sauce) because they are, hands down, the best in the city. Don’t let the casual vibe fool you into thinking you don’t need to book ahead. It's always busy.

After dark:   Dr Stravinsky  is a cocktail bar with low lighting and walls stacked with glowing liquids. The award-winning cocktails are elevated to an art form. The bartenders are always flipping, shaking and making dramatic pours like Tom Cruise in Cocktail , and while that sounds cheesy, they make it look good. I love the theater of it all. Each drink is grouped into sections on the menu—smoky, milky, spicy, umami, sour, and more—to guide your selection.

First time in Barcelona? Here are the things you should know

Aerial view of Barcelona from Montjuic

Morning: Enjoy breakfast in Espai Mescladis , a cafe that trains and employs refugees and helps them build ties within the neighborhood. It has a really lovely community vibe. The menu features Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Latin American influences, reflecting the diverse origins of the staff. Most of the produce is organic, fair trade, and produced locally. It's a great place to eat solo, with shared tables in the airy courtyard.

How to spend the day: Open-top bus tours are ideal for Barcelona, where the architecture is so unique that the entire city feels like an open-air museum. If you opt for the City Sightseeing bus  (from €33.00), start with the blue line and you'll see the top Modernista sights and Camp Nou . Then, switch to the red line at Diagonal (the Francesc Macià stop) to reach Montjuïc where you can visit the  Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya  in the 1920s Palau Nacional and the Fundació Joan Miró .

My "secret" tip: Before rejoining the bus tour at the Telefèric de Montjuïc stop, take a short walk to Bar Marcelino , a cheap and cheerful outdoor bar surrounded by trees off the main route that's popular with locals. Not many tourists seem to know it's here, but it offers some of the best panoramic views of Barcelona. Grab a beer and soak it all in.

Dinner:  Bar Cañete is a real treat, blending Catalan, Andalusian, and French dishes with white-tablecloth service. The staff treat everyone like they've been coming here for years. If possible, get a front-row seat at the bar to watch the synchronized movements of the waiters and chefs as they prepare and serve each dish. It's expensive, but you can keep the costs down by ordering a mix of appetizers. Don't miss the lobster croquetas or   fried artichokes. For a similar experience at a lower price point, consider  Gresca . I love it and so does Dua Lipa. 

After dark: If you want to go dancing but haven't purchased a ticket in advance to the big clubs, try your luck at  Monk , a "secret" bar and club in El Born. The hidden entrance to its cocktail bar can be found at the back of a grocery store (behind the Haribo stand), along with another secret entrance to access the club itself. For a unique Barcelona experience, visit  Poble Espanyol , an open-air architectural museum that hosts DJs and live music. If you want a more low-key evening, check out the musical programming for  Palau de la Música Catalana , where the shimmering stained-glass skylight alone is worth the visit.

Don't miss Barcelona's best experiences

A night view at the roof of "La Pedrera" building in Barcelona

Morning: Many Barcelona restaurants are usually closed on Sunday or Sunday/Monday limiting your options. But there are still treats to be had if you know where to look. I love Soma  in Eixample for a late breakfast or early lunch. Book ahead and request a seat on the terrace. Watch people stroll by while enjoying a plate of pà amb tomàquet (tomato bread)   with anchovies. Many of the streets around Eixample are pedestrianized on Sundays so you can enjoy a lovely little morning walk afterwards.

How to spend the day: Many shops also close on Sundays, making it a great day to explore more of the city's museums. To avoid the Sunday crowds at popular attractions like La Sagrada Família, consider visiting  Casa Vicens instead , a less-visited Gaudí museum. Once you've soaked in some architectural marvels, I recommend shifting gears to the Gràcia neighborhood where my go-to spot for coffee and lunch is  Bar La Camila , a gorgeous mid-century styled café that also serves Catalan dishes like calçots (chargrilled green onions with romesco sauce) and esqueixada (salt cod salad). Treat yourself to vegan ice cream at Amma Gelato and enjoy it at Plaça de la Virreina, a square surrounded by bars and restaurants where residents gather to savor their Sundays. 

Dinner: Bar Salvatge  in Gràcia is rightly famous for its geeky natural wine menu and fun and delicious small plates. It's the type of place where you let the staff choose your wine as their rotation is constantly changing. You can get Gildas (a briny and tangy appetizer featuring a fat olive, salty anchovy and pickled Guindilla pepper) in many Barcelona wine bars, but the ones served here are my favorite. It's also a great place to spend the night because the music is loud, and it stays open until 12:30am. 

After dark: La Pedrera is the name given to Casa Milà , Gaudí's apartment block. You can visit at any time but I highly recommend booking a nighttime tour . In winter they run from 7pm and in summer from 9pm. Tickets (from €39 for adults) include a glass of Cava and a music show on the rooftop (any genre from jazz to rumba) and a guided tour. There's something really special about standing on that rooftop at night among the illuminated chimney stacks (which look like stormtroopers from Star Wars ). The architecture seems even more surreal. 

Traveling on a budget? Here are some money-saving tips for Barcelona

Interior of a traditional candle shop in Barcelona where walls are stacked with shelves of colorful candles

Morning: Wake up early and join the queue for  Milk Bar & Bistro , the first restaurant in Barcelona to serve brunch (and reputed to serve the best). While the food is excellent, I find the constant queues daunting. If you're patient try the chorizo hash or the matcha pancakes — both are delicious. For shorter waits in the Old Town, consider Cafe del Born or, for a lighter option, Flax and Kale . I'd also suggest toasting your last day in Barcelona with vermouth (vermouth hour starts at noon here): try Bodega Fermín, an old-school bar in Barcelonetta where the house-made vermouth is poured straight from the barrel.

How to spend the day: Shop for unique pieces in places special to Barcelona . Start with  Cereria Subirà , the oldest candle shop in the city, crafting traditional wax candles since 1761. Other gems include  La Manual Alpargatera , known for its handmade espadrilles and  La Clinique , specializing in vintage designer sunglasses and exclusive perfumes. I always like to pick up a book in the local language when I'm visiting a city, even if I can't speak it. In Barcelona, I head to Lliberia Calders in Sant Antoni for a great selection of Catalan books, and then to  Café Cometa for an iced-coffee.

Dinner: At local staple Bar Bodega Gol in Sant Antoni, you probably won't see another tourist. It's an unpretentious spot where the walls are lined with wine barrels, and the simple menu showcases the quality of ingredients from across Spain, particularly Galicia. Try the escalivada (roasted vegetables), botifarra (Catalan sausage) or Galician beef. It closes early on a Monday (4.30pm) so if that's too tight for you, try nearby Bandini's a restaurant offering Mediterranean dishes with a Scandinavian twist.

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COMMENTS

  1. Visit Barcelona Turisme de Barcelona Official

    The Barcelona that hosted the Olympic Games in 1992 is a city where people take part in sport at amateur and professional levels and women lead the field in every sporting discipline. There's one day every year when travellers and visitors to Barcelona feel like they're on another planet. This is a day when Barcelona is suffused with a ...

  2. Barcelona Tourist Information Offices Guide

    This Barcelona tourist info office also has a gift shop with an extensive range of quality souvenirs for your visit to Barcelona. Address: Plaça de Catalunya, 17 08002 Barcelona, España. Opening hours. Month Day Time; January - December: Monday - Sunday: 08:30 - 20:30: Tel: +34 93 285 3834.

  3. Barcelona Tourist Information Centre, Office and Points

    Plaça Sant Jaume Tourist Office. Address: C/ (street) Ciutat, 2 (on the ground floor of Barcelona's City Hall). Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 20:30. Saturdays from 09:00 to 19:00. Sundays and public holidays from 09:00 to 14:00. 24th December open until 19:30, and 31st December until 20:00.

  4. Visit Barcelona

    Thinking about paying a visit to #Barcelona? Then this information will be of interest to you: maps, routes, unmissable events, how to get about, how to get here and plenty more ... Tourist information office. Tourist information offices open every day of the week and only close on two days of the year: 1 January and 25 December. Each office ...

  5. Tourist Offices

    Rambla-Liceu Tourist Info Centre. Tourist information ofice located in the heart of Barcelona, La Rambla, inside Gran Teatre del Liceu. Address: La Rambla, 115 - 08002 Barcelona. Phone: +34 93 301 77 75. Opening Times: daily, from 9am to 6.30pm.

  6. Plaça de Catalunya

    Plaça de Catalunya. ···. Located in the heart of Barcelona, this information point has 700 m 2 of dedicated floor space providing in different languages. The office also provides: Personalized attention, official ticket and tour sales, unique experiencesand gift shop. Meeting point for the Picasso walking tours.

  7. Passeig de Gràcia Barcelona

    The Oficina de Turisme de Barcelona -the Barcelona Tourism Office- is located on spacious premises of 700 sq.m. at Plaça de Catalunya, in the heart of the city. This information point offers complete tourist and cultural information in several languages and a number of different services: · Qualified monitors provide tourist and cultural ...

  8. Barcelona 2024

    The biggest and most central Barcelona tourist information office is an underground office in the city centre in the corner of the the main square called 'Plaça de Catalunya.' Look for the tourist office signposts on the eastern corner of Plaza Catalunya (see photo diagram) where it meets the street called Avinguda del Portal de l'Àngel and ...

  9. Tourist office in Barcelona

    Plaça de Catalunya Tourist office. It is located in the heart of Barcelona and is the head quarters office, the biggest one. They sell gifts items inspired by Barcelona, they do VAT refunds too. Address: Plaça de Catalunya, 17-S, Barcelona | Tel: 932 853 834. Opening hours: daily, from 8.30am to 8.30pm.

  10. Tourism in Barcelona

    The City Council approves €11.1 million from the tourist tax for 48 projects that will improve tourism's social return in the city. Tourism. A total of 29 of the projects will be managed by the districts, while the ICUB will get funds to develop 8 decentralised cultural programmes that will be held throughout the year and also designed with ...

  11. Tourist information centres in Barcelona

    Head office in the city centre on Plaça Catalunya. Barcelona Airport, Terminal T1, T2 and Metro L9. Officina Catedral. Mirador de Colom. Bus station Estació del Nord. Cathedral. Information booths. The opening hours may change due to external circumstances. All tourist information centers are wheelchair accessible.

  12. Barcelona

    You will find a great list of things to do with children during your Barcelona visit. Visitor information [edit] 1 Tourist office at Plaça de Catalunya, Plaça de Catalunya, 17-S (Metro: L1, L3. Bus: 9, 22, 28, 42, 47, 58, 66, 67, 68. Train: R4). 08:30-20:30. This is the main tourist office in the city. (updated Oct 2015)

  13. Barcelona Tourist Guide

    Barcelona is a Mediterranean city alive and cosmopolitan, full of light and colour. You will discover the modernist route, the famous Catalan gastronomy and the creative corners that inspired geniuses like Gaudi, Miro or Dali…. Come to visit Barcelona, it will hook you forever…. BARCELONA INSPIRES YOU. Short trip to Port Aventura and Costa ...

  14. Barcelona, what to see and do

    Practical information. We recommend using public transport. Hola Barcelona: travel card with unlimited travel on the metro, bus, tram and train for 2, 3, 4 or 5 days. More information. Barcelona Card: tourist card with free or priority entrance, unlimited travel and other advantages for 3, 4 or 5 days. More information

  15. Barcelona's City Centre Guide

    This is one of Barcelona's largest squares and is the gateway to uptown Barcelona. Conveniently, it is the home of Barcelona's main Tourist Information centre - definitely worth a visit with any questions that you might have. I have always found them to be helpful and efficient. Tourist Information Plaça de Catalunya, 17 08002 Barcelona, España.

  16. Barcelona Tourist Information/Tourism Guide, Spain 2024

    We have 15,000 pages of up to date tourist information covering every part of planning your visit to Barcelona city. In addition to essential Barcelona tourism information, you will also find dozens of time and money-saving tips from local people - information hard to find anywhere else. These special insider tips will make your Barcelona city ...

  17. City guide of Barcelona Spain

    TRAVEL - 02 WangMingru & 27 Rao Yujie (6 Apr 2022 - 11:38). Hi. We are students of English at Fujian University of Technology in China. In class, our teacher introduced us to the beautiful city of Barcelona and watched a video about Barcelona's scenic architecture, tourism and culture.

  18. Tourist Information at Barcelona Airport Terminal 1 (T1)

    Tel: +34 91 321 1000 (Spain) Tel: +34 91 321 1000 (International) Click to learn about useful travel services available from Barcelona Airport that you can arrange in advance of your trip. Mar, David and Esther - The friendly team at Tourist Information. On arrival at the airport, Tourist Information is often the first port of call for visitors.

  19. Barcelona Airport Tourist Information Offices

    Tel: +34 93 557 5220. E-mail: [email protected]. Barcelona Airport Tourist Information is a worthwhile service to use during your visit. The Barcelona tourist office is smaller and more personal than some of the tourist information centres in Barcelona, they can still offer the same information and advice.

  20. Tourist Information Offices

    List of Tourist Information Offices in Barcelona. [email protected] (+44) 2035142614; Save time and money with the Barcelona Card. Toggle navigation. Barcelona Card . Discounts; Prices; ... Wherever you are in Barcelona, there´s always a tourism office near you: the main office is located at Plaça de Catalunya, but there are many other ...

  21. Barcelona travel guide

    In high summer, the city can be unbearably hot; it's great for the beach and siestas, but less so for sightseeing. Bear in mind too that many shops or restaurants close as inhabitants leave on holiday. Late spring or early autumn, when temperatures fall to below 25C, is a much more pleasant time to visit Barcelona.

  22. The ultimate weekend in Barcelona

    If you're staying for a long weekend, the best value is the T-Casual card (10 metro rides in zone 1) for €12.15. Or, try the Hola Barcelona Card, which offers unlimited travel on the metro, bus, tram, funicular and airport transport for €25.50 for three days. Uber hasn't really taken off here, so download the Cabify app instead.

  23. 15 Best Things to Do in Barcelona

    It's best to visit Mercat de la Boqueria in the morning, when the crowds are smaller and the vibe is more authentic. Remember this is still a market for locals as much as a tourist attraction. Location: La Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona, Spain. Open: Monday - Saturday from 8 am to 8.30 pm (closed on Sundays) Map.

  24. BARCELONA BUS TURÍSTIC

    136 reviews and 838 photos of BARCELONA BUS TURÍSTIC "I can only recommend this hopp-on/hopp-off tour. Three tours can be combined at a price of EUR 20,00 (one day) or EUR 26,00 (2 days). We made 2 tours, took abt. 3,5 hours without hopping off. After that we've at least had a look at all main attractions of Barcelonal You receive earphones when entering, the explanations are made in 10 ...

  25. Official USPS® Change-of-Address Form

    Preparer Information: The person who prepares this form states that he or she is the person, executor, guardian, authorized officer, or agent of the person for whom mail would be forwarded under this order. Anyone submitting false or inaccurate information on this form is subject to punishment by fine or imprisonment or both under Sections 2 ...

  26. FC Barcelona official statement

    The latest news from FC Barcelona — schedule, tickets, injury updates, player info, video, match stats and highlights, standings, official shop & more

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