Barcelona is a captivating metropolis that elegantly merges history, architecture, cuisine, and culture. Previously, we published a blog about Barcelona City Trip: Top Things to Do in Barcelona. But, in this Barcelona travel guide blog, we will explain how you can explore the city in Spain in a more detailed way, making your trip to Barcelona more prepared and fun. So, check it out!
What is the best way to explore Barcelona?
- Transportation Options
- Accommodation
- Food and Groceries
- Itinerary and Where to Visit in Barcelona
- Hidden Gems in Barcelona
Transportation Options
Barcelona boasts an intricately woven transportation network that facilitates seamless exploration. In this Barcelona travel guide, we will dive into the details:
Metro
The Barcelona Metro is the lifeline of the city’s transport system. A single fare, which is €2.40, grants access to an extensive network of lines, ensuring easy navigation to key attractions. Consider purchasing the Hola BCN! Travel Card, offering unlimited metro, bus, and tram rides, allowing you to hop on and off at your convenience.
Bus
Buses traverse the city’s landscapes, making them an excellent option to reach destinations beyond the metro’s reach. Moreover, a bus journey, similar to the metro, can use the TMB Travel Pass, which seamlessly provides both bus and metro access for economical exploration.
Tram
While less extensive than the metro and buses, trams offer picturesque routes to specific neighborhoods. Besides, the tram fare is generally similar to that of the metro and buses, ensuring a seamless transition between modes of transport.
Taxi
If you are looking for convenience, taxis should be your choice. Especially, it works during late hours, and you can also travel easily when you bring a lot of luggages. Furthermore, initial fares are approximately €2.50-€3.00, with a per-kilometer charge. Moreover, a taxi ride from the city center to Barcelona-El Prat Airport can range from €25 to €35.
Biking
Immerse yourself in Barcelona’s cycle-friendly ambiance by using Bicing, the city’s bike-sharing system. For more leisurely exploration, bike rentals enable you to meander through neighborhoods, coastal paths, and iconic sights.
Accommodation
Barcelona offers a plethora of accommodation options catering to diverse preferences. In this Barcelona travel guide, we recommend you these options:
Hotels
From opulent 5-star sanctuaries to budget-conscious havens, Barcelona’s hotels accommodate every taste. Mid-range hotels, spanning €80-€150 per night, offer comfort and convenience. Luxury establishments commence from €200 per night, providing exquisite amenities and memorable experiences.
Hostels
Hostels are ideal for solo travelers and those seeking a social ambiance. Prices, ranging from €15 to €50 per night, encompass varied room options and engaging communal spaces for interaction. This is absolutely the best deal for budget travelers.
Airbnb
Alternatively, you can also embrace the essence of local living by opting for an Airbnb rental. A night’s stay in an apartment or room spans €50 to €150, influenced by location and accommodations. Moreover, if you are traveling in a group, this is the best option that you must choose. You can even cook together to save your travel spending.
Food and Groceries
Barcelona’s culinary tapestry is an intricate blend of flavors, colors, and traditions. In this Barcelona travel guide, we recommend you try out these delicacies:
Tapas
Partake in a tapas adventure, where these bite-sized creations span €2 to €5 each. Or you can also enjoy a variety of tapas, which starts from €20-€30 per person, delivering a medley of flavors that embody Spanish cuisine.
La Boqueria Market
While entry is free, allocate around €10-€20 for a market feast. In this market, you can find many fresh produce of the locals. Moreover, you can also find some quick bites and delicious smoothies.
Seafood Delights
Immerse yourself in maritime delights with paella, a quintessential seafood dish, priced between €15 and €30, dependent on the restaurant. For a seafood platter for two, the expenditure may extend to €40-€60.
Cava and Wine
Savor the essence of Catalonia’s winemaking legacy with cava, costing approximately €3-€5 per glass. A supermarket jaunt for a bottle of cava, spanning €5 to €15. So, you can revel in the effervescence of local craftsmanship. Wine aficionados can procure decent bottles at €10-€20.
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Secret Hidden Restaurants in Barcelona
Additionally, you should also explore the hidden gem restaurants in Barcelona. They usually offer not only excellent food but also unique experiences and ambiance for you to enjoy. Read our blog about Barcelona’s Secret Spots for Foodies: 10 Hidden Restaurants to learn more.
Itinerary and Where to Visit in Barcelona
A Barcelona travel guide is not complete without an itinerary and places to visit. Generally, visiting Barcelona is enough for only three days. This timeframe orchestrates an equilibrium between iconic expeditions and clandestine discoveries, interlaced with moments of leisure and epicurean exploration. However, you can aim for more since there are definitely some good places and experiences you should explore in this city.
Day 1: Immersing in Historic Grandeur
Begin with La Sagrada Família in the morning, admiring its intricate splendor. You can meander down La Rambla. There, you should explore its vibrant tapestry of shops and cafes. Moreover, do not forget to venture into the Gothic Quarter, delving into its maze-like alleys, culminating in a visit to the Barcelona Cathedral. Conclude the day savoring tapas at a bodega and immerse in the city’s culinary charm.
Day 2: Gaudi’s Architectural Symphony
When you are in Barcelona, it is compulsory to embark on a morning exploration of Park Güell. It is a haven of mosaics and artistic brilliance. In the afternoon, you should visit Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, bearing testimony to Gaudí’s ingenuity. In addition, in the evening, you can also enjoy the traditional Catalan restaurant around the city, where you can taste delicious Catalan food.
Day 3: Seaside Splendor and Montjuïc Magic
Last day, you must indulge in sun-drenched tranquility at Barceloneta Beach. Alternatively, if you love nature, you can also ascend Montjuïc Hill using the Montjuïc Cable Car for panoramic vistas. In the evening, go to the Magic Fountain show. It is a captivating confluence of water, light, and music.
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Hidden Gems in Barcelona
In the blog of Barcelona Hidden Gems: Top 10 Spots for 2023, we have explained where are the best hidden gems in Barcelona. However, in this Barcelona travel guide, these are our other recommendations that are worth visiting:
Bunkers del Carmel
Perched atop Turó de la Rovira hill, the Bunkers del Carmel provides a breathtaking panorama of Barcelona’s urban landscape. Originally, it was built as anti-aircraft fortifications during the Spanish Civil War. Moreover, this site offers a serene escape from the bustling city. So, you can watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of gold, casting a warm glow over the city below.
El Raval
Embrace the artsy vibe of El Raval. It is a neighborhood pulsating with creativity. Stroll through its vibrant streets adorned with street art and eclectic boutiques. Or immerse yourself in contemporary art at the MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona). In addition, you can also go to the Biblioteca de Catalunya to find literary treasures. The neighborhood’s multicultural essence is reflected in its diverse cuisine, making it also a haven for culinary exploration.
Poble-sec
Nestled at the foot of Montjuïc, Poble-sec boasts a local atmosphere often overlooked by tourists. Moreover, you should also explore Carrer Blai. It is renowned for its tapas bars offering a tantalizing array of pintxos. In addition, immerse yourself in the authentic ambiance of Plaça del Sortidor, a charming square perfect for people-watching. This neighborhood’s unassuming charm captures the heart of Barcelona’s local life.
Barcelona encapsulates history, culture, and flavors in an exquisite medley. Armed with this Barcelona travel guide, you are primed to embark on a boundless exploration of this Catalonian gem. JoinMyTrip also has a lot of trips to Barcelona guided by our dedicated and experienced TripLeaders. They know how to explore the city with local insights so that you can experience Barcelona in a more fun way! Our small group tours also equip you with other like-minded travelers around the globe to make it even more fun for you to share your happiness with us! So, book a trip at JoinMyTrip today!