Barcelona Travel Guide

Barcelona Travel Guide

Barcelona Travel Guide: The city of Barcelona is the second biggest one in Spain and is consistently ranked as one of the top tourist attractions in all of Europe. There are many different kinds of visitors who visit Barcelona, ranging from partying backpackers on a budget to cruise ship passengers with families.

It should come as no surprise that this city attracts a large number of tourists (and consequently struggles with overtourism) given all that it has to offer, including its delectable sangria and gin, mouthwatering food, stunning beaches, warm weather, rich history and culture, and distinctive architecture.

 

Time Zone of Barcelona

Time that is standard in Central Europe

 

Best Time to Visit to Barcelona

If you want to avoid the heat and humidity of late summer in Barcelona, the ideal time to go there is either early summer or fall. You’ll have the best luck with the weather if you plan your vacation during the months of May, June, September, or October. During these months, you’ll have lots of sunshine and temperatures that are perfect for going swimming and seeing the city’s beautiful streets, parks, and markets.

 

Important Information

Both Spanish and Catalan are the languages spoken most often in Barcelona, which serves as the capital and biggest city of the autonomous community of Catalonia. The city is renowned as Spain’s premier biotech metropolis in addition to being a transportation hub and one of the economic capitals in the southwestern region of Europe.

 

In Barcelona, the meal hours are often quite a bit later than in other cities. For lunch, restaurants are normally open from 1:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., and for dinner, they are typically open from 8:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. During the siesta, which typically lasts from 2:00 to 5:00 in the afternoon, as well as on Sundays and other national holidays, many shops are closed.

 

Things to do in in Barcelona Travel Guide

Explore Some of Gaud’s Architecture

The most well-known architect that worked in Barcelona was named Antoni Gaud (1852-1926). The city is littered with examples of his handiwork. His eccentric approach to fusing Gothic and Art Nouveau is world-famous and instantly recognisable due to its unique combination of the two styles.

 

Have fun at the beach.

Barceloneta Beach is a broad and lengthy expanse of sand that is over 1 kilometre (.6 miles) in length. It is located within walking distance of the city centre and has a number of eateries along the boardwalk that run parallel to the beach. If you continue walking down the coast, you will eventually reach some beaches that are less crowded (I recommend Nova Icaria and St. Pol de Mar).

When you go during the summer, try to get here early and stay away from the weekends if you can; the crowds are the worst then. In addition, do not leave any valuables behind since theft of personal belongings is widespread in this area.

Visit to Picasso Museum.

Pablo Picasso was a Spanish artist who is known for producing some of the most well-known and recognisable works of art in the world today, including sculptures and paintings. Even though I’m not a great admirer of most of his later work, I think it’s still important to pay a visit to this museum. The personal story and artistic practise of one of the most important painters of the 20th century were fascinating subjects to investigate, both individually and collectively.

Because he worked in a variety of artistic styles, such as cubism, surrealism, and neoclassicism, there is probably at least one of them that you will find appealing. One of the most extensive Picasso museums in the world, this establishment has more than 4,000 works of art.

 

Historic Gotic Quarter

My favourite section of town is the historic Gothic Quarter located in Barcelona. It is in this area that you will discover the oldest portions of the city, such as ancient Roman walls and mediaeval structures, all of which are linked by small lanes that wrap around one another.

These days, the area is packed with restaurants, nightclubs, and bars all competing for space. In this neighbourhood, it is not difficult to lose track of time for a couple of hours. It’s my go-to spot if I want to get lost in the city.

 

Take a walk along La Rambla.

This well-known street in Barcelona is a popular destination for visitors to the city. This traffic-free promenade is lined with eateries, stores that charge inflated prices, and visitors carrying cameras in every direction. Nevertheless, in spite of this, there is a lively atmosphere here, and there are a lot of magnificent structures to see, such as the Gran Teatre del Liceu, which is the city’s opera theatre, as well as a mosaic that was created by Joan Miró (a Spanish painter, sculptor, and ceramicist from Barcelona). Although I wouldn’t buy or dine here, it’s a nice area to take in the sights of the city and watch the locals go about their day.

 

Visit to Cathedral of Barcelona.

This Gothic cathedral, which is formally known as The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia and can be found in the centre of the Barri Gotic, was constructed on top of a church that dates back to the 11th century. Visit the crypt of Saint Eulalia as you make your way around the stunning cloister, which was constructed during the 14th and 15th centuries (Eulalia was a 13-year-old Christian martyr from Barcelona).

 

The Raval

The Raval is the name of the historical literary area of Barcelona. In the 20s, it was known for having a rather sinister and seedy atmosphere, but these days it is packed with restaurants and boutiques. Take a walk around the neighbourhood, paying specific attention to El Raval’s version of La Rambla, which is a well-known gathering spot for those interested in restaurants and nightlife.

 

See a Movie

If you find yourself in Barcelona around the months of July or August, you may want to try going up Montjuc Hill to see a film outside around the moat of the castle. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, screenings are held, and the evenings often begin with some amazing live music to get the party started.

Visit to Montserrat

A visit to the Montserrat mountain range, which is located close to the city and provides for an enjoyable day excursion, is highly recommended. You may get there by taking a train journey that will take you exactly one hour.

Once you arrive, take a stroll around the natural park area, and don’t forget to pay a visit to the well-known shrine of the Black Madonna (it dates to the Middle Ages). It’s a beautiful place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona for a while.

In addition, there is a local market located here where you may purchase handcrafted goods and artisanal meals. Additionally, there are many opportunities for rock climbing and hiking in the surrounding region.

 

Best Hotels in Barcelona Travel Guide

Casa Bonay

Phone: +34 93 545 80 70

Booking

The creation of uncomplicated, environmentally friendly places that instil in visitors a feeling of connection to the neighbourhood and its inhabitants is the core mission of Casa Bonay. The bright and airy ambiance of this 19th-century mansion that has been converted into a hotel is comparable to that of the city itself, thanks to the abundance of greenery and the minimalist but sophisticated interior décor that was created in collaboration with local designers.

Be sure to have some tapas at the property’s rooftop restaurant (which is available to the public), and then sunbathe on the nearby rooftop terrace, which is reserved only for the use of hotel guests.

 

Cotton House Hotel

Phone: +34 934 505 045

Booking

The Cotton House Hotel, which is a member of Marriott’s Autograph Collection and is located in the building that formerly served as the headquarters of the Association of Cotton Manufacturers, has a neoclassical foundation that is accentuated by soft and sophisticated designs throughout the property.

The hotel has 83 pleasant rooms, a beautiful library, a restaurant and cocktail bar, a terrace, and a rooftop pool in addition to other amenities such as these. Be sure to have a look at the one-of-a-kind spiral staircase that was constructed on the property in 1957; it is the only one of its type in Europe.

 

Hotel Arts Barcelona (La Barceloneta)

Phone: +34 932 211 000

Booking

You’ll want to stay for the property’s two-star Michelin restaurant and stunning pool in addition to the striking glass design and spectacular vistas when you visit. The five-star accommodations (rooms, suites, and penthouses) at Hotel Arts Barcelona are situated in elevated, contemporary interiors high above the Mediterranean and the city.

As a result, the views are just as spectacular as the service and luxury facilities offered at the hotel. One of the most recognisable examples of contemporary architecture in the city is this steel-and-glass structure, which was designed by the architect Bruce Graham.

 

Hotel Neri (Gothic Quarter)

Phone: +34 93 304 06 55

Booking

In Barcelona’s renowned Gothic Quarter, you’ll find this Relais & Chateaux hotel housed in two ancient houses, one of which is a beautifully renovated palace dating back to the 12th century. The hotel has a dark and stylish ambience that is in keeping with the district in which it is located.

Additionally, the hotel’s closeness to popular tourist destinations such as La Rambla and the Picasso Museum make it a perfect base for people who are new to the city.

 

Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

Phone: +34 93 151 88 88

Booking

This esteemed establishment, which can be found on the lively Passeig de Gràcia, is regarded as one of the most well-liked five-star hotels in the area. The rooms provide spectacular views of the property’s pristine grounds as well as the adjacent Casa Batlló. The hotel’s restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star, and guests can anticipate receiving five-star treatment there. Additionally, the rooms and suites have classic style.

 

Best Restaurants in Barcelona Travel Guide

The Leopoldo Bar (Traditional Catalan)

Phone: +34 934 413 014

This Raval restaurant, which specialises in Catalan cuisine and was once known as Casa Leopoldo, has been a pillar of the community ever since it first opened its doors in 1929. The culinary crew is keeping the celebration alive by providing paella delivery and takeout for those who have pre-ordered it.

 

Caelis (Contemporary)

Phone: +34 935 101 205

This restaurant, which has a Michelin star, is located inside Hotel Ohla and features three distinct tasting menus where daring and imaginative modern cuisine are served up by the team led by Chef Romain Fornell. Indoor seating is available, and attendees are expected to adhere to a business casual dress code. Reservations may be made either online or over the phone.

 

Dos Palillos (Tapas, fusion)

Phone: +34 93 304 05 13

The fusion tapas at Dos Palillos, which are inspired by cuisines from Japan, China, and Southeast Asia, are delectable, and as a result, the restaurant’s tasting menu is highly recommended (you will need to make a reservation either over the phone or online). You are welcome to sit at the bar without making a reservation if you would rather order your food à la carte and sample a beverage.

 

La Barra de Carles Abellán (Seafood)

Phone: +34 93 295 26 36

La Barra, which can be found inside the impressive Hotel W located on the coasts of the Mediterranean, provides upgraded seafood meals in a modern, two-bar environment, with all fish being cooked over the central charcoal grill. The restaurant is named appropriately for its location. There is a need for reservations, which may be accomplished by either calling or sending an email.

 

Llambar

Phone: +34 933 19 62 50

The cuisine at Llambar, which can be found in the neighbourhood of El Born, is designed to be shared and features distinctive cocktails, a large wine selection, and exquisite Spanish tapas. Online or over the phone, reservations may be made for the atmospheric location, which, although not being needed, is highly recommended due to its popularity.

 

Weather of Barcelona

Temperatures in Barcelona are, for the most part of the year, comparable to those seen in other Mediterranean cities. The warmest and most humid month in the city is August, with temperatures averaging 77 °F, while the month with the lowest average temperature is January, with temperatures averaging 49°F. Annual precipitation averages approximately 25 inches, with October often being the wettest month of the year.

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