Barcelona is easy to love and easy to get slightly wrong on a first visit. These ten Barcelona travel tips come from drivers who meet travellers at the airport every day, and they will save you time, money and a few headaches.
1. Sort out your airport transfer before you fly
After a flight, the last thing you want is to compare transport options with your bags at your feet. Decide in advance; our airport taxi starts from €39 at a fixed price.
2. Book Gaudà sights online
The Sagrada FamÃlia and Park Güell sell timed tickets that often sell out days ahead in high season. Book on the official websites before you travel.
3. Eat on local time
Lunch is usually from about 13:30 to 15:30 and dinner from 20:30 onwards. Many good kitchens are closed in between, so plan a snack rather than an early dinner.
4. Look for the menú del dÃa
On weekdays many restaurants offer a set lunch with several courses and a drink at a very reasonable price. It is the best-value meal of the day.
5. Watch your belongings
Barcelona is a safe city, but pickpockets work the busy areas: La Rambla, the metro and the beach. Keep your phone off the table and your bag closed and in front of you.
6. Choose your neighbourhood carefully
The Eixample is central and elegant, the Gothic Quarter is atmospheric but noisy at night, Grà cia feels like a village and Barceloneta puts you by the sea. Pick the one that matches your trip.
7. Walk, then use the metro
The centre is compact and flat. For longer hops the metro is quick and simple; multi-journey tickets work out cheaper than singles.
8. Learn two words of Catalan
Barcelona has two official languages. A friendly “bon dia” (good morning) and “grà cies” (thank you) are always appreciated.
9. Give yourself one day outside the city
Some of the best moments are an hour away: the mountain monastery of Montserrat, the beaches of Sitges, the old town of Girona or the coves of the Costa Brava. A private driver lets you go at your own pace.
10. Cruise passengers: plan the port transfer
The cruise terminals are spread along a long quay and are not close to the airport. If you are sailing from Barcelona, book a direct airport to cruise terminal taxi and leave generous time before boarding.
Barcelona travel tips: the short version
Book your transfer and your Gaudà tickets before you fly, eat when the locals eat, keep an eye on your bag and save one day for the coast or the mountains. Follow these Barcelona travel tips and your first visit will run smoothly from the moment you land.
Book your Barcelona airport taxi
Private transfers 24 hours a day, with the price agreed before you travel. Flight tracking and meet and greet included.