A City Guide To Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona city, or Barcelona Cuidad, is one of the most popular cities in the world. Gaudi, festivals, museums, beaches, perfect weather, Barcelona has it all. With Cobblestone streets, Vineyards, Michelin-star restaurants, world-class shopping, and F1 racing, Barcelona has something for everyone.

If you want to party, shop until you drop, tan on the beach, or get pampered at a spa, Barcelona has you covered and my City Guide To Barcelona is for you. Above all, this colorful, cosmopolitan capital city of Catalonia in North East Spain, exudes life and living! At the center of the Costa Brava area, Barcelona is unsurprisingly one of the most visited cities in Europe.

Barcelona tourism is constantly growing. In 2017 over 50 million people arrived in Barcelona via the El Prat Airport and cruise ships. The number does not include trains, buses, or other motor vehicles. Barcelona is also commonly called Barco and Barka.

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Barcelona History At A Glance

Barcelona has a long and somewhat unclear history. It is completely understandable considering the estimated age of the city.

Ruins from early settlements dating back to pre-5000 BC have been discovered during an excavation in the neighborhood of El Raval. Remains of early Chalcolithic and Neolithic periods have been discovered near the city on the coastal plain. Retracing its roots to Roman times, the city thrived through the medieval period and later as a commercial and cultural center. Although, it also faced hard times with political and economic struggles from the 15th to 18th centuries.

Some important dates in Barcelona history

• 2nd century BC – the Roman village of Barcino was known.
• 988 – independence begins
• 1640 – 1659 – is the Reapers’ War (Catalan Revolt or Guerra dels Segadors)
• 1888 – Barcelona hosted the first World Exhibition
• 1929 – Barcelona hosted the World Exhibition again
• 1936 – 1939– is the Spanish Civil War
• 1992: Barcelona hosted the Summer Olympic Games
• 2011 – the last traditional bullfight, where the bull is killed, happened in Catalonia on Sept. 25th.
• 2010 – Sagrada Familia was inaugurated by Pope Benedict XVI on November 7th. The church is now a Basilica.

Where is Barcelona?

The location of Barcelona city is in the Northeastern part of Spain along the Mediterranean Sea. It is the Barcelona Catalonia region of Spain. It is 620 km (385 miles) northeast of Madrid Spain, 350 km (217 miles) north of Valencia, and 977 km (607 miles) north of Malaga. The European countries that border Spain are Portugal to the east, France to the North, and the tiny country of Andorra; which is located between Spain and France.

Barcelona Spain Climate

“We love the weather; Barcelona Spain is perfect”. It is a statement made by countless tourists and locals.

The metropolitan area of Barcelona has a Mediterranean climate. The city is located on the eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula and has hot humid summers and mild winters.

The average Barcelona temperature of 21°C (70°F) as a daytime high and 15°C (59°F) as an evening low can be a little misleading. These are the average yearly temperatures in Barcelona; however, it gets a lot hotter and colder throughout the year.

Generally, August is the hottest month of the year with high humidity. Daytime temperatures can vary from 28 to 32°C (82 to 90°F). Although, Barcelona’s temperature during the summer has reached 37.4°C (99.3°F). It was the hottest day on record on August 27th, 2010.

Subsequently, the temperature during the coldest months of January and February averages 6 to 12°C (43 to 54°F). However, record lows have brought the temperature to a bone-chilling -8°C (17.6°F) on December 27th, 1962. Although these temperatures don’t seem too cold compared to other countries, Barcelona is a humid climate, making the temperature feel a lot colder than it is. Average humidity ranges from 69% in July to 75% in October

Sunshine

Barcelona has about 3 times the amount of sunshine hours than the Northern half of Europe. It averages 2,524 hours of sunshine per year. The longest day of the year has 14:59 hours and the shortest day of the year has 9:00 hours of sunshine. Thus, makes the summer days almost 6 hours longer between the longest and the shortest days and the best time to visit Barcelona.

Rainfall

Barcelona does not receive a lot of rain due to its northeastern location. In an average year, the city will receive about 620 Millimeters (24.5 inches) of rain. Rainfall in October is the highest with about 100 mm (4 inches). It is the lowest in July with only about 20 mm (.08 inches). Thunder and lightning storms are also very rare in Barcelona.

Snow

It is rare for the city to receive snow. The hills surrounding the city will see frost in the winter months, especially in February. If there is going to be any snow in the area, chances are, as it has happened in previous years, it will be in February.

Famous Catalan Artists

The work of Antoni Gaudí, whose omnipresent fantastical architecture is represented throughout the city. It includes the world-famous Sagrada Família church, which reflects the spirit of this amazing city.

Salvador Domingo Felipe Jacinto Dalí i Domènech called Salvador Dalí for short, Lluis Domènech i Montaner, and Joan Miró i Ferrera are also famous Catalan artists. Their works can be found in Barcelona and throughout the Catalan region.

Barcelona Neighborhoods (Barrios)

Barcelona has many neighborhoods that you can spend an entire day in. Some of the most popular are listed below.

El Born

Nestled near the beach, El Born is a charming neighborhood with an abundance of bars, restaurants, and shops that line its picturesque cobblestone streets. As you wander through this historic area, you’ll be captivated by the unique blend of ancient and contemporary architecture. A must-visit attraction in El Born is the Palau de la Música Catalana, a stunning concert hall showcasing the best of Catalan modernism. Take your time exploring this vibrant district, soaking in its rich culture and lively atmosphere.

Gothic Quarter

Step back in time as you meander through the enchanting Gothic Quarter, the heart of old Barcelona. This area boasts a fascinating mix of medieval buildings, narrow alleyways, and vibrant squares, all waiting to be discovered. The Gothic Quarter is home to countless shops, cafes, restaurants, and museums, offering a delightful combination of history, culture, and modern convenience. Lose yourself in this captivating neighborhood and create lasting memories.

La Rambla

While not a neighborhood itself, La Rambla is an iconic boulevard that deserves a visit during your stay in Barcelona. Connecting the bustling Plaça de Catalunya with the waterfront, this vibrant promenade is lined with colorful market stalls, street performers, and a variety of cafes and restaurants. Be aware that La Rambla is a hotspot for pickpockets, so take precautions with your belongings. This lively street acts as the dividing line between the Gothic Quarter and El Raval, making it an essential stop on your exploration of the city with a high concentration of tourist offices.

El Raval

Though known for its edgier reputation, El Raval remains an essential part of Barcelona’s city center, with its unique character and bustling atmosphere. Home to a plethora of budget shopping options, this neighborhood is always alive with people and energy. Despite its less polished appearance, El Raval’s distinct ambiance is not to be missed. Embrace the diversity and excitement of this area, and you may just discover hidden gems among its narrow streets.

Eixample District

The elegant Eixample District is a shopper’s paradise, boasting some of the best retail experiences in Barcelona. This neighborhood is also home to several of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces: the Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera, and Casa Batlló. Known for its vibrant nightlife, Eixample features a plethora of trendy bars and restaurants, where you can indulge in delicious cuisine and experience the true essence of Barcelona’s after-dark scene. Explore this sophisticated district, and immerse yourself in its unique blend of architectural beauty and cosmopolitan charm.

Plaça Espanya

At the heart of Barcelona, Plaça Espanya is a bustling square that boasts some of the city’s most iconic attractions. Marvel at the enchanting Magic Fountain, where light, music, and water combine for a mesmerizing display. Nearby, you can explore the National Art Museum of Catalonia, housing an impressive collection of Catalan art. Don’t forget to visit La Monumental, the historic bullring-turned-commercial center, which adds to the area’s unique charm.

Montjuïc

Ascend Montjuïc, Barcelona’s famous hill, for breathtaking views of the city and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. Though not quite a mountain, Montjuïc still offers a wealth of attractions, including captivating museums and majestic buildings. For an unforgettable experience, take a scenic cable car ride to the top, where you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the city and coastline.

Gràcia

Once an independent town, Gràcia is now a trendy district within Barcelona, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and creative spirit. Stroll through its lively streets and make your way to Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece, Park Güell, where you can admire stunning architecture amid lush greenery. Don’t miss Gràcia’s annual week-long festival in August, an event eagerly anticipated by locals throughout the year.

Poble Sec and Sants

For a more authentic taste of Barcelona, explore the residential neighborhoods of Poble Sec and Sants. While these areas may lack the usual tourist attractions, they offer affordable accommodations and easy access to both the city center and the beaches. Immerse yourself in local life and discover the hidden gems tucked away in these quieter districts.

Les Corts

As the financial and business hub of Barcelona, Les Corts may be off the usual tourist trail, but it still has plenty to offer. This area is home to numerous shopping options, hotels, and restaurants, catering to both business travelers and tourists seeking a more relaxed experience. Explore the elegant streets of this district, and enjoy the upscale atmosphere that Les Corts exudes.

Bogatell and Ciutadella

Just a short metro ride from the city center, Bogatell and Ciutadella are convenient gateways to the vibrant Port Olympic area and the inviting sands of Bogatell Beach. These neighborhoods provide a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of central Barcelona while still offering easy access to the city’s highlights.

Port Olympic

Stroll along the picturesque boardwalk of Port Olympic, where you’ll find a delightful array of restaurants and bars to suit any taste. As the gateway to Barcelona’s beautiful beaches, this area is perfect for a leisurely walk or a relaxing meal, all while taking in the stunning coastal views.

Barceloneta

Barceloneta is the ultimate beach destination for both tourists and locals alike. This bustling area, located close to the city center, is renowned for its golden sands, sparkling waters, and lively atmosphere. Families and sunseekers flock to Barceloneta to enjoy a day at the beach, while the numerous restaurants and bars cater to their every need. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Barceloneta and create unforgettable memories by the sea.

Barcelona Beaches

Barcelona beach is actually 10 beaches or beach areas. Most of them connect, so people don’t realize they are walking through several beaches. With a coastline that stretches 4.5 km, the beaches are complete with various amenities and people. From the tranquil Caldetes beach to the (nudist) Mar Bella and the busiest Barceloneta. There is also Nova Icaria beach, Sant Sebastiá, Playa del Bogatell, along with several others inside and outside the city.

Barcelona and Spanish Wine

Most people think of going deep into the country to get to vineyards. Surprisingly within ninety minutes of Barcelona, you can visit one of 15 wine regions in Spain. One is a short twenty-minute drive from the city. If you’re not driving, you can still reach a few of the vineyards with public transportation. There are several Barcelona tours related to vineyards and wine tasting. If you don’t want to go to the vineyards, you can still try the local and regional wines. Several wine tastings are available in various locations throughout the city.

What To Do In Barcelona Spain

There are countless things to do in Barcelona. You can experience several Barcelona tours including walking, food, and bike tours. You will want to spend some time at Barcelona beach to relax or go on a boat trip. Alternatively, you can get active with beach and water sports. The Barcelona Pass is great to get when you plan on visiting a lot of places and want to save some money. Here are some Barcelona sightseeing activities and places to visit in Barcelona you should not miss when you plan your trip.

Sagrada Familia

A Barcelona trip is not complete without visiting Sagrada Familia. It is one of the most popular Barcelona attractions. Gaudi’s modernist masterpiece has yet to be completed. The work started March 19th, 1882, and is planned to be completed in 2026. However, some say it will never be finished. Get your skip-the-line tickets here.

Casa Batlló

You can walk through the house Gaudi remodeled in 1904, but the Casa Batlló guided tour is the best way to get the most out of your visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site. Get your entrance and smart guide ticket here.

La Pedrera – Casa Milà

La Pedrera, known as Casa Milà is a large building that Antoni Gaudi designed with nature-inspired interiors. Get your skip-the-line and audio guide tickets here.

Camp Nou – F.C. Barcelona

Football fans must tour Camp Nou, especially if they are F.C. Barcelona fans. See all the behind-the-scenes in the largest stadium in Europe. View the area where the teams prepare for games, walk through the famous tunnel to the field, and learn the history behind the building. Get your three-hour guided tour with tapas here.

Tibidabo Amusement Park

Have a day of fun and excitement at the Barcelona theme park, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Situated on a hill towering over the city is Barcelona’s Tibidabo Amusement Park. Go for a ride on the Ferris wheel, climb aboard the carousels, and let the kids enjoy interactive games and rides. Visit their website for hours and admission here.

Botanical Garden

The gardens offer an oasis of beauty, peace, and tranquility. Plants are truly little miracle workers. Located on the hill of Montjuïc, this botanical garden was initially started in 1888. For more information visit their website here.

Estrella Damm Brewery Tasting

Take a tour of the Estrella Damm Brewery and taste some of the beer they have been making for over 140 years when you visit Barcelona. Learn how Spain’s largest brewery creates its beer using 100% natural ingredients of rice, malt, and hops. Get your tickets here.

Barcelona Aquarium

Barcelona Aquarium is home to 11,0000 animals. The 450 species are spread throughout 35 aquarium spaces including a 16 ft (5 m) deep one with a 260ft (80 m) tunnel. Get your aquarium tickets here.

Theatres and Venues

If you are looking for some other things to do in Barcelona, Spain, it has over 100 concert venues, theaters, and comedy clubs. It is a city that never sleeps. Here are just a few of the favorites in the city.

Palau de la Musica Catalana

The stunning building is a kaleidoscope of stained glass, mosaics, and carved roses. Built between 1905 and 1908, the modernista style was designed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner. Take a tour of the building to learn about its history and see behind the scenes. Then return to watch one of the performances. With over 500 performances and shows throughout the year, there is something for everyone. Get your guided tour tickets here.

Gran Teatre del Liceu

Take a one-hour tour to hear about the history of the building. See the sculptures, furniture, and art nouveau decorations throughout the theatre. Come back another time to watch a performance. See the list of performances here.

L’Auditori L’Auditori

L’Auditori is the ideal place to go for classical music lovers. The 137,800 ft² (42,000m²) building opened in 1999. See their list of events here.

Teatre Nacional de Catalunya – TNC

The Teatre Nacional de Catalunya, or TNC for short, is considered a newer building in Barcelona. It was built between 1991 and 1996 by the Catalan postmodern architect Ricardo Bofill. Visit their website here for more information.

Teatre Apolo

The Teatre Apolo has been a classic Barcelona venue for well over a century. Throughout most of the Apolo’s history, it has been a variety of theatre, concentrating on a combination of musicals, reviews, comedies, and zarzuelas.

Tablao Flamenco Cordobes

Here you will start your evening enjoying a delicious feast of tapas. Then you will move into another room for the flamenco performance. The intimate setting adds to the excitement of the flamenco dance, costumes, and singers. The show lasts approximately one hour. Visit their website for more information and tickets here.

Museums In Barcelona

There are over 55 museums in Barcelona covering a plethora of subjects. They include art, architecture, cannabis, chocolate, history, maritime, science, sports, and war. Below are seven museums you should visit. You should keep in mind most museums are closed on Mondays in Spain.

Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona

The Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona is an arts center in the Raval barrio. The core theme is the city and urban culture. Visit their website here for hours and admission.

Chocolate Museum

Museu de la Xocolata is a private museum owned by the Gremi de Pastisseria de Barcelona. It opened in 2000 on the ground level of an old barrack. They also host themed dinners and workshops. Check out their website here for more information.

Erotic Museum of Barcelona

The small Erotic Museum a unique journey through erotism’s history. Taking a stroll through the erotica proves that pornography is timeless. Visit their Facebook page for more information.

Hash, Marihuana, and Hemp Museum

The museum oversees and displays a unique collection that embodies all aspects of cannabis. It facilitates scientific research, functions as a knowledge center, and plays an important informative role. Check out their website here.

Museu Marítim de Barcelona

The Maritime Museum is located in the royal arsenal of Barcelona building by the port. It is dedicated to shipbuilding between the 13th and 18th centuries. For more information about hours and admission visit their website here.

Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC), is the national museum of Catalan visual art. The beautiful building is home to 290,000 items. Visit their website for more information on admission and hours.

Museu Picasso

The Museu Picasso houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. Within the museum, you will see over 4,250 pieces on display by the painter. The museum has one of the most comprehensive permanent collections of his works. Visit their website here for information about hours and admission.

Monuments To See In Barcelona

Barcelona has many monuments and landmarks you can visit. Below are a few of my favorites.

Cascada Monumental

Cascada Monumental is my favorite water fountain in Barcelona. The classical 2-tier fountain & monument has an arch & central Venus statue. It is located in a 19th-century park, Ciutadella Park.

Barcelona Cathedral

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, commonly called Barcelona Cathedral, was built between the 13th and 15th centuries. It is dedicated to Eulalia of Barcelona, a co-patron saint of the city and a martyr. For hours and admission visit their website here.

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe was built as the gateway to the Universal Exposition of 1888. It is located on the promenade that leads to the Parc de la Ciutadella where the exhibition center was. You can read more about the Arc on the Barcelona Tourism website here.

Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau. its singular architectural and artistic beauty should not be missed. It is also the hospital where Antoni Gaudi died in 1926. Visit their website here for hours and admission.

Festivals In Barcelona

Life in Barcelona is anything but dull. There are always festivals going on in the city, especially during the summer months. Below are just a few. Just bear in mind this is a rough guide and festivals are always subject to changes of dates.

January

• Epiphany – The three wise men, also known as Spain’s 2nd Christmas (5th/6th January)

February

• Santa Eulalia Festival
• Carnival (February/March)

March

• Rally Barcelona

April

• Dia de Sant Jordi (23rd April)
• Catalonia April Fair
• Barcelona Comic Fair
• Barcelona Film Festival
• World Press Photo

May

• Formula One Spanish Grand Prix
• Cuitat Flamenco Festival
• Automobile Barcelona
• International New Roses Competition
• International Record Fair
• Night of the Museums
• Primavera Sound Festival (May/June)

June

• Sonar Festival – www.sonar.es
• Pride parade and festival
• Taste a La Rambla
• Ou Com Balla
• The Historic Centers Local Festival
• Modernist Fair of Barcelona
• San Juan Night (23rd/24th)
• Hotel Terrace Week
• Jardins Pedralbes Festival (June/July)
• Grec Festival (June to August)
• Cinema on the Beach (June – August)

July

• Sonar Festival
• Cruilla Festival
• Montjuic de Nit
• Vespres Inedits Festival
• Poble Sec’s Local Festival
• El Raval’s Local Festival
• Els Vespres De La UB
• Cap Roig Festival (July/August)
• Sala Montjuic (July/August)

August

• Gandules (throughout August)
• Gracia’s Local Festival
• Circiut Festival
• Girlie Circuit Festival
• Sants’ Local Festival
• Sant Roc Local Festival

September

• Festa de la Merce (several days on either side of 24th September)
• Poblenou’s Local Festival
• BAM Festival
• La Barceloneta’s Local Festival
• La Ribera’s Festival

October

• Festes Del Roser
• Octoberfest Barcelona
• 48-Hour Open House Barcelona
• Barcelona International Record Fair
• Auto Retro Barcelona
• Mercat De Mercats
• Manga Fair (October/November)

November

• L’Alternativa – Barcelona Independent Film Festival
• La Castanyada & All Saints Day

December

• Santa Llucia Christmas Market
• Sagrada Familia Christmas Market
• The Espinelves Fir Tree Fair
• Medieval Market of Vic
• Fira De Reis (Christmas Fair)
• Italian Film Festival
• City of Dreams (Children’s Festival)

Barcelona festivals held throughout several months

• Brunch in the Park
• Brunch in the City
• Music in the Parks
• Open Air Cinema
• Dinner With the Stars
• International Jazz Festival

Shopping In Barcelona

For the shopping tourist, there are several places to go in Barcelona. Everything from high-end shops to outlet stores is sprinkled throughout the city. The two most popular areas are Portal del Angel and Passeig de Gracia.

Portal del Angel is a 250-meter street from Plaça de Catalunya going down towards the sea. Here you will find cheap shopping in Barcelona. Stores like Bershka, Benetton, H&M, Massimo Dutti, Mango, Pull and Bear, Zara, local shoe shops, and more.

Passeig de Gracia is known for its high-end shopping. From Plaça de Catalunya you will walk up towards Diagonal for all the luxurious shops located within the world-class architecture here. You will find jewelry and accessory shops including Bvlgari, Rolex, Cartier, Chanel, and Swarovski. Clothing and other shops including Armani, Burberry, Diesel, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, and others are here.

If you prefer shopping malls, then you can go to the following malls:

Diagonal Mar
Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (closed Sunday).
Address: Avinguda Diagonal 3.
Website: Diagonal Mar Shopping Mall.

Centro Comercial Glories
Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (closed Sunday).
Address: Avinguda Diagonal 208.
Website: Glories Centro Comercial (Spanish only).

Las Arenas Shopping Center
Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (closed Sunday).
Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 373.
Website: Las Arenas Shopping Centre.

With the amount of shopping that is available, you might want to come with an empty suitcase so you can fill it up while you are on your holidays in Barcelona.

Day Trips From Barcelona

Although there are countless things to do in Barcelona, I know a lot of people also want to see more of Spain while they are here. Therefore, here are some great day trips from Barcelona that you should consider going on.

Montserrat

Montserrat means “saw mountain” in Catalan. The rock formations are visible from far away from the mountain. As you get closer, you will notice the strikingly pink conglomerate of the sedimentary rock. The three main peaks of the mountain are Agulles (2,962 ft / 903 m), Montgrós (3,675 ft / 1,120 m), and Sant Jeroni (4,055 ft / 1,236 m). Montserrat is well known for the Benedictine abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat, which is home to the Virgin of Montserrat sanctuary. In 1987 it was designated as a National Park.

Take a look at some of the best Monserrat tours, such as an eco-friendly Montserrat hike or a Montserrat Monastery Tour with Cable Car & Farmhouse Lunch.

Girona

Located just 40 minutes north of Barcelona via high-speed train, Girona rests along the river Onyar. The medieval city is known for its architecture, the Jewish quarter, the Roman remains of Força Vella fortress, and the Old Quarter (Barri Vell). Many scenes from Game of Thrones have been filmed here.

Book Girona Game of Thrones Tour here.
Book Girona, Figueres and Dalí Museum Day Tour here.
Book Girona and Costa Brava Tour here.

Other recommended day trips from Barcelona:

Check out our other recommended 15 Best Day Trips From Barcelona.

How To Get to Barcelona

Depending on where you are coming from, there are three ways to get to Barcelona city if you are not driving.

The Airport

Barcelona Spain flights will arrive at the International El Prat Airport. Over 37 million people use El Prat Barcelona every year. From the airport, you can take the metro, bus, taxi, or car rental into Barcelona city center.

Train

There are two main train stations in Barcelona. Of the two, the most popular one is Estació de Sants. This is the main high speed train station that connects to Zaragoza and onto Madrid. The other, Estació de França is not used as often and is located in the city center. Find a complete listing of train times and tickets here.

Bus

Barcelona also has two main bus stations. Estació de Sants is the more popular station with more bus routes and times available. Estació de Nord is not as popular; however, it is located close to the Arc de Triomf. Both stations have metro stops next to them to bring you anywhere in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions