Barcelona is the kind of city that casts a spell over its visitors. Enticed by the epic architecture and promise of deep-running history set in the context of a coastal Mediterranean getaway, millions of travelers arrive every year to see the charms of Barcelona for themselves.
Despite this popularity, it’s often misunderstood – especially if you fail to escape the typical tourist pitfalls. For many, it’s a city that always calls them back and a place where they feel the most at home. However, there are many missteps travelers can make in a city this big, popular, and culturally complicated.
Today, the spotlight often shines on Barcelona for its overtourism problem, and local resentment makes itself known through aggressive graffiti near popular attractions. In some cases, this has even forced city officials to restrict access to once off-the-grid spots simply because the crowds have gotten out of control. In my years of living in Barcelona, I’ve learned how to avoid shoulder-to-shoulder crowds and enjoy the city as a local would. Here’s everything you should know before you come to Barcelona, from essential safety tips to insights into the cultural landscape.
1. You Can’t See the Whole City in a Day
Barcelona may not be the biggest city you’ve ever been to, but it is massive when you consider all the ways you can entertain yourself. Consequently, the ideal number of days for a trip to Barcelona is between two and five. That should be enough to cover the must-sees, but if you want to explore more in the surrounding area, 10 days would give you additional time for day trips to nearby cava wineries, the Costa Brava, or even as far north as the Pyrenees for a day of skiing.
2. There Will Be Lots of Tourists
There’s no use denying that overtourism is an issue in Barcelona; however, you can plan to avoid the crowds by traveling during the off-season or getting an early start on the day before the cruise ships pull in and the streets fill up with visitors.
You can also purchase many tickets in advance so you don’t have to wait in long lines. Nevertheless, in certain locations, you won’t be able to avoid the crowds completely. Try to space out the big attractions in your itinerary to maintain some breathing room.
3. Avoid Traveling During Big Events
Barcelona draws major acts from around the world every summer as a mainstay on the music festival circuit. However, unless you’ve already secured your ticket to Primavera Sound or Sonar, you may want to avoid traveling during these weekends or when large trade fairs, like the Mobile World Congress, take over the city. It’s already an expensive city, and accommodation rates tend to skyrocket with a significant influx of visitors.
4. Know What Cultural Events to Look For
If you want to have an authentic cultural experience in Barcelona, you can look for local events that embrace Catalan traditions like the parades of giants, human tower gatherings, Sardana dance circles, and the Correfoc fire parades. You may stumble across them if you’re traveling over a holiday like Holy Week. To improve your odds, consider visiting in September when the city celebrates La Mercè, one of Barcelona’s patron saints, with a week of festivities that include cultural events and free concerts.
5. There’s More Than One Rambla
Many will tell you La Rambla is a must-do; however, walking the Rambla feels a lot like walking through Times Square – crowded, touristy, and best avoided whenever possible. Fortunately, the city has multiple Ramblas where you can savor a pleasant stroll. Venture down the Rambla del Raval with its famous Botero cat sculpture or choose to walk the Rambla del Poblenou from Diagonal all the way down to the beach.
6. The Beaches Get Better the Further Away from the City Center You Get
Barceloneta is the most famous beach in Barcelona, and the adjacent neighborhood is worth checking out for its narrow streets and great tapas spots. Nevertheless, if you genuinely want to relax on the beach, travel further down. Barceloneta can get crowded and noisy with tourists, so walking or cabbing your way past Port Olímpic to Platja de la Mar Bella may be more enjoyable. If possible, venture outside the city to Sitges or the Costa Brava for more tranquil and beautiful beaches.
7. Get to Know Catalan Culture
As an autonomous region of Spain, the subject of Catalan independence can be sensitive. Therefore, it’s essential to be respectful to locals by learning about the distinct characteristics that shape Catalan cultural identity. Show genuine curiosity, and locals will likely share their favorite traditions, from wintertime onion barbecues to the quirky caganer (“the pooper”), a beloved Christmas icon.
8. Catalan Is Not a Dialect of Spanish
If you’re looking for a quick way to offend a Catalan, consider assuming Catalan is merely a dialect of Spanish. Most people in Barcelona are multilingual; they speak both Catalan and Spanish fluently. While the tourism circuit caters well to English-speaking clients, making an effort to learn a few words can leave a favorable impression. Words like “Bon dia” for “Good Morning” and “Adéu” for “Goodbye” can be helpful.
9. Pickpockets Are a Real Issue
Just about everyone in Barcelona has a first or second-hand pickpocketing story. Therefore, it’s crucial never to let your guard down, especially when using the metro or walking through crowded tourist areas. Keep your phone out of sight whenever you’re not actively using it, and avoid leaving it unattended on tables, especially while dining outdoors.
10. Public Transportation Is Safe and Efficient
Although you must remain vigilant with your belongings due to pickpocketing, one of the best attributes of Barcelona is its efficient public transportation system. Experiences on public transport tend to be generally positive, making it easy to connect to major train and bus stations for escapades outside the city.
You might notice the red shared bikes called Bicing, but they are exclusively for residents. If you wish to utilize Barcelona’s bike lanes, you’ll need to rent from a shop. However, exercise caution on how and where you lock it, as bike theft is as prevalent as pickpocketing.
