travel republic barcelona

The 17 best things to do in Barcelona in 2024

Feb 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Here are Barcelona's unmissable experiences © Jordi Salas / Getty Images

Barcelona is Spain 's most visited city, and it's not hard to see why – the historic capital of Catalonia is packed with galleries, museums, attractions and an incredible food scene.

Set between the mountains and sea, the city is celebrated for its unique architecture , thriving nightlife and urban beaches . With so many options, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Start your travel to-do list now with our guide to the best things to do in Barcelona .

1. Visit the Sagrada Família

Almost every city has at least one landmark that you simply can’t miss, and the  Sagrada Família is Barcelona’s. Antoni Gaudí’s magnificent masterpiece has been under construction for more than 130 years, and it’s still not finished.

Far from a construction site, however, the church features two grand facades studded with intricate stone carvings, towers that gleam with gem-like tiles and an interior filled with tree-like columns soaring up toward the canopy ceiling. Construction work paused during the pandemic but has resumed and the building is expected to be completed in time for the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death in 2026.

Planning tip:  The Sagrada Família is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain, and it can get  very  busy. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning (it opens at 9am) on a weekday.

2. See more of Gaudí’s designs

The Sagrada Família may be the most famous of Gaudí’s buildings, but all his wonderful, whimsical designs are worth visiting. The most well known are  Casa Batlló , with its iridescent dragon-like scales and skull-and-bone-effect balconies, and  La Pedrera , with its undulating stone facade and fanciful chimneys. Some of his lesser-known but equally beautiful buildings include  Casa Vicens , the first house he ever designed;  Palau Güell , which he designed for his patron Eusebi Güell; and the  Torre Bellesguard .

3. Wander through the Gothic Quarter

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter ( Barri Gòtic ) is the oldest and most atmospheric part of the city. Characterized by small alleyways, hidden plazas and historic buildings, it lies to the east of La Rambla, the famous pedestrian street that runs through the center of the old town.

The neighborhood is scattered with century-old shops, small bars and charming cafes. Some highlights include the striking Plaça Reial, fringed by cafes and palm trees; Plaça Sant Jaume, home to the grand Palau de la Generalitat; and the impressive  La Catedral .

Planning tip:  Many parts of the Gothic Quarter are known for late-night bars and clubs that are still going well into the morning. Perfect if you want to dance until dawn, but not the best neighborhood to stay in if you're traveling with young kids or those who appreciate an early night.

4. Explore Barcelona's food markets

La Boqueria might be the most famous of Barcelona’s food markets, but each neighborhood has its own, and there are several excellent ones to choose from. La Boqueria is the oldest and one of the most atmospheric, but in recent years, more stalls have given over to things such as tropical fruit shakes and novelty candy rather than traditional produce.

For a more authentic vibe, visit the modern  Mercat de Santa Caterina with its multicolored wavy roof or the grand  Mercat de Sant Antoni  with 250 stalls.

5. Soak up the sun on Barcelona's city beaches

Whatever time of year you visit Barcelona , the beaches won’t disappoint. Even in winter, it can be sunny enough to sit outside and enjoy a meal at one of the seaside restaurants, while summer offers everything from sunbathing and swimming to water sports.

The city boasts a 5km (3-mile) stretch of coastline, home to nine different beaches. There’s  Sant Sebastià with its range of upscale restaurants, Somorrostro lined with hip nightclubs and Nova Icària with a watersports center and beach volleyball.

6. Venture up Montjuïc

Montjuïc is the green hill to the south of the city, home to the Olympic Park, as well as numerous museums and gardens. Rising from Plaza d’Espanya, you'll first see the grand sets of stairs and fountains cascading down from the magnificent palace housing the  Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya . Behind that is the huge Olympic Stadium and the rest of the Olympic Park. 

Planning tip:  The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya has a terrace that offers spectacular views of the city and is a popular spot to watch the sunset. The open-air bar means you can enjoy a few drinks while taking in the view.

Explore Montjuic effortlessly with  GetYourGuide . Book your tour today.

7. Snack on some tapas

When hunger pangs arrive in the afternoon or early evening, take advantage of the pre-dinner tapa. This means heading to the local favorite for a bite of anchovies, sausage, squid, wild mushrooms, roasted peppers or dozens of other tempting morsels. Wine, cava and beer all make fine accompaniments.

Planning tip: Many tapas spots are lively stand-around-the-bar affairs. When it's time for a change of scenery, barcelonins  make their way to dinner or just head to another tapas bar and skip the sit-down formality altogether.

8. Learn about an icon at the Museu Picasso

Picasso lived in Barcelona between the ages of 15 and 23, and elements of the city undoubtedly influenced his pieces, from the colorful but simply painted frescoes hanging in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya to the imaginative trencadís -style mosaics (pre-Cubist some say) of Gaudí. The Museu Picasso 's setting adds to the appeal, as do the buzzy, history-rich surrounding streets of El Born.

Explore Museu Picasso effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

9. Catch a game at Camp Nou

FC Barcelona plays a prominent role in the city's imagination. Heading to a football match at Camp Nou between September and May is the best way to catch a bit of Barcelona fever, but watching it on screen in a bar can be just as much fun, depending on the crowd. 

Planning tip: Even if you can't make it to a game, the interactive Barça Stadium Tour and Museum experience takes you through the locker rooms and onto the field, hallowed ground for many Catalans.

Transform your visit to Camp Nou by  booking with GetYourGuide.

10. Experience Barcelona's famous nightlife

A night in Barcelona holds limitless possibilities. Start with sunset drinks on a rooftop terrace or sink your heels into the sand at a rustic-chic beachside xiringuito . As darkness falls, the city transforms with buzzing squares and live music, and around midnight the bars fill up.

Pick from old-school taverns, plush lounges in lamp-lit medieval chambers, sleek cocktail dens, boisterous cava bars, basements churning out brassy jazz and more. If you're still standing at 3am, hit the clubs and keep going until dawn.

11. Spend an early morning on La Rambla

Sure, the leafy 1.2km (0.75-mile) pedestrian boulevard of  La Rambla  that stretches toward the sea is the most touristed spot in town – at times, you can barely push through the crowds. But pay a visit first thing in the morning and you'll see that beyond the souvenir shops and craft sellers, it's a pure sensory overload.

Open-air cafes, fragrant flower stands and a much-overlooked mosaic by Miró dot the pavement, while key venues line both sides of the street, including the elegant Gran Teatre del Liceu , the sprawling Mercat de la Boqueria and numerous galleries. Several other barris , such as El Poblenou, have their own attractive rambles , too.

12. Enjoy Catalan cuisine

Barcelona is a great foodie city, known throughout the world for its innovative chefs and creative cuisine. While you’ll find tapas bars everywhere, be sure to sample some local Catalan dishes, too.

Before you dine, join in l’hora del vermut at a typical vermouth bar, which pairs the fortified wine with bites of pickled anchovies and olives to whet the appetite. Follow it up with traditional Catalan dishes, such as botifarra amb mongetes (sausage with white beans), suquet de peix (fish stew), escalivada (roasted red peppers, onions and eggplant) and crema catalana (similar to crème brûlée). Sample the cuisine at  Casa Delfín .

13. Celebrate during festival time

Because Barcelona has a festival almost every other month, it won’t be hard to make your trip to the city coincide with one. There are the patron-saint festivals of Santa Eulalia and La Mercé in February and September, respectively, La Diada de Sant Jordi in April (when people give each other gifts of books and roses to celebrate St George) and the fire festival of St Joan in mid-June.

Some of the main features of Catalan festivals include the castellers  (human towers), huge parading giants and correfocs , where firework-wielding devils dance through the streets.

14. See a range of works at Fundació Joan Miró

Joan Miró, the city’s best-known 20th-century native son, bequeathed this art foundation to his hometown in 1971. The light-filled buildings are crammed with seminal works, from Miró’s timid early sketches to paintings from his last years.

15. Scope out examples of Modernista architecture

One of the things that makes Barcelona so charming is its Modernista architecture. An artistic movement that affected everything from literature and art to architecture, the Modernisme era lasted from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries.

You can identify these buildings by their bright colors, floral or botanical motifs, patterned tiles and curvy lines. Some of the best examples can be seen around the L'Eixample area, but you can also find them dotted all over the city. Besides Gaudí’s Modernista works, some of the best examples in the city are the  Palau de la Música Catalana and the  Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau , both designed by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner.

16. Explore up-and-coming El Poblenou

On the up is the formerly industrial neighborhood of El Poblenou, northeast of the center. Vacant warehouses are being reimagined as creative tech and design hubs, cafes, boutiques, bars and more.

17. Sip a drink at one of L'Eixample's rooftop bars

Admire Modernista marvels over a cocktail or vermouth. L'Eixample 's elegant streets conceal an array of hidden-away, view-laden open-air bars and cafes beloved by barcelonins , many of them within swish hotels but open to all. 

This article was first published Feb 27, 2020 and updated Feb 12, 2024.

Explore related stories

Jul 2, 2024 • 6 min read

Climb, hike, swim and paddle your way through Costa Brava – whatever type of activity you're craving, this place will get your adrenaline flowing.

Mar 26, 2024 • 3 min read

Nov 1, 2023 • 15 min read

Feb 15, 2023 • 6 min read

Jul 6, 2022 • 7 min read

Jun 24, 2022 • 6 min read

Apr 7, 2022 • 6 min read

Jul 30, 2021 • 6 min read

Apr 19, 2021 • 7 min read

Dec 9, 2020 • 7 min read

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

How to Plan the Perfect Visit to Barcelona in Any Season

The beautiful city of Barcelona is perfect for visiting any time of year.

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

The name of this storied Catalan city, Barcelona, is almost as beautiful as the coastal metropolis itself. Nicknamed Ciudad Condol (once upon a time, the city was the seat of the Count of Barcelona) the destination sticks with anyone who wanders among the remarkable architecture and through the airy plaças. Nestled along the sparkling Mediterranean Sea in northeastern Spain, Barcelona is a colorful melting pot of culture, full of world-renowned cuisine, legendary art, music, and more. Book a trip to this sunny city and you'll spend your days exploring the dynamic barrios , wandering along the beach, strolling through verdant green spaces, and discovering gem after gem — some well known, like Park Güell or Camp Nou, and some hidden, like Santa Caterina.

The architecture alone is worth planning your trip around — from Gothic structures to Gaudí's modern wonders, design lovers could fill weeks exploring the stunning buildings, monuments, and sculptures throughout the city. Ultimately, Barcelona's unwavering energy and cultural elements result in a distinct immensity of spirit unlike any other destination. The temperate climate, too, makes the weather quite pleasant for most of the year.

When vacationing in a new place — especially an historic city — it's easy to get caught up in the I-must-see-everything-as-quickly-as-possible mentality. And while Barça has no shortage of things to see and do, the city imparts a distinct sense of relaxation on those who pass through. Be sure to reserve time to experience life like the locals do, enjoying leisurely lunches followed by siesta, vermuteria hopping on Sundays, and frequenting your neighborhood bar for tapas and wine with friends.

Central European Standard Time

Early summer or autumn are the best times to visit Barcelona, as late summer tends to get hot and humid. Book your trip in May, June, September, or October for the most idyllic weather — you'll encounter plenty of sun and nice temperatures for swimming and walking about the city's stunning streets, parks, and markets.

Barcelona is the capital and largest city of Catalonia, where both Spanish and Catalan are the predominant languages spoken. The city is a transportation hub and one of southwestern Europe's economic centers — also known as Spain's leading biotech city.

Meal times are all generally on the late side in Barcelona. Restaurants are typically open from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for lunch, and from 8:30 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. for dinner. Many stores close for lunchtime siesta (2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.), as well as on Sundays and public holidays.

Europe's largest stadium is Camp Nou in Barcelona with a capacity of over 99,000 occupants, and is home to FC Barcelona (one of the most supported fútbol teams in the world).

Metro: The Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) is the main transport system in Barcelona, operating both the metro line and select bus routes. Riders can purchase tickets at metro stations across the city. Single tickets cost €2.40 or you can buy a T-Casual ticket for multi-trip use.

Trains: The main railway station in Barcelona is the Barcelona Sants. The FGC is a network of trains in Barcelona and the surrounding suburbs which connects the city to other towns in Catalonia. The Renfe is an international high-speed railway line that connects Spain and France, allowing travelers to get to cities like Paris, Marseille, and Madrid quickly.

Buses: The TMB operates all throughout the city and travelers can purchase tickets both at stops and on the bus, although you're only able to purchase single rides on the bus. There's also the Aerobús BCN, which connects Barcelona Airport with the city center.

Taxis: Typically affordable, accessible, and all over the city day and night.

Car service: While Uber operates throughout Spain, it is not currently available in Barcelona. Cabify is a favored alternative for ride sharing.

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 700, Barcelona 08010, Spain Phone: +34 93 545 80 70

Casa Bonay's bread and butter is creating simple, sustainable spaces that impart a sense of local culture and community onto guests. With ample greenery and a simplistic, chic interior decor (made in partnership with local designers), this 19th-century house-turned-hotel's light and airy atmosphere matches that of the city itself. Be sure to grab tapas at the property's rooftop restaurant (open to the public) and sunbathe on the neighboring rooftop terrace, exclusive to guest use.

Cotton House Hotel (Eixample)

Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 670, Barcelona 08010, Spain Phone: +34 934 505 045

Cotton House Hotel, part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, is housed in the former headquarters of the Association of Cotton Manufacturers, giving the property's spaces a neoclassical foundation accented by soft, sophisticated designs. In addition to 83 comfortable rooms, the hotel features an elegant library, a restaurant and cocktail bar, a terrace, and a rooftop pool. Be sure to check out the property's unique spiral staircase, built in 1957 — it's the only one of its kind in Europe.

El Palauet Barcelona

Address: Passeig de Gracia, 113, Barcelona 08008, Spain Phone: +34 932 180 050

These six luxurious suites (each two-bedroom) epitomize Spanish elegance in hotel form. Located centrally along the famous tourism and shopping hub of Passeig de Gracia, El Palauet is housed in Casa Bonaventura Ferrer, the iconic modernist building built by Pere Falqués i Urpí in 1906.

Address: La Rambla, 109, Barcelona 08001, Spain Phone: +34 935 529 552

Located right along the tree-lined pedestrian stretch of La Rambla, as hinted in its name, Hotel 1898 has a long history. Originally the headquarters of General Philippines Tobacco Company, elements of the property's origins can be seen in the architecture and classical decor style. The comfortable rooms range from classic to deluxe, with two levels of beautifully-appointed suite options available.

Hotel Arts Barcelona (La Barceloneta)

Address: Marina 19-21, Barcelona 08005, Spain Phone: +34 932 211 000

Come for the striking glass design and amazing views, and stay for the property's two-star Michelin restaurant and breathtaking pool. Hotel Arts Barcelona offers five-star accommodations (rooms, suites, and penthouses) in elevated, modern interiors high above the Mediterranean and the city — so the views are as superb as the service and luxury amenities. Designed by architect Bruce Graham, the exterior's steel-and-glass build is one of the most distinct modern buildings in the city.

Hotel Brummell (Poble Sec)

Address: Nou de la Rambla,174, Barcelona 08004, Spain Phone: +34 931 258 622

A stone's throw from the legendary site Montjuïc, Hotel Brummell offers 20 comfortable rooms in the trendy Poble Sec neighborhood. Considered slightly off-the-beaten-path, this property is low-key and intimate with an imaginative, modern design, beautifully mirroring Barcelona's culture of cool. Features include a sunny terrace, an outdoor pool, an on-site sauna, and a restaurant and bar.

Hotel Neri (Gothic Quarter)

Address: Sant Sever Street, 5, Barcelona 08002, Spain Phone: +34 93 304 06 55

This Relais & Châteaux property is located in two historic buildings — one of which is a restored 12th-century palace — in Barcelona's storied Gothic Quarter. The hotel's moody, chic atmosphere matches the neighborhood it calls home, and proximity to attractions like La Rambla and the Picasso Museum make it an ideal home for those exploring the city for the first time. The 22 hotels and suites feature luxury amenities, some featuring balconies and terraces, others with sweeping views or gilded murals.

Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona

Address: Passeig de Gracia 68 - 70, Barcelona 08007, Spain Phone: +34 934 881 717

Located in the heart of the Passeig de Gracia, Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona is a Neo Classical icon dating back to 1918. Known for an exceptionally detail-oriented staff, the property epitomizes timeless elegance, with light and warm tones accenting the 271 rooms, suites, penthouses, and apartments. Guests will enjoy proximity to many attractions, including Gaudí's architecture, upscale shopping, myriad restaurants, and Gran Teatre del Liceu, and more.

Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 38-40, Barcelona 08007, Spain Phone: +34 93 151 88 88

This beloved hotel, situated on the bustling Passeig de Gràcia, is one of the city's most popular luxury hotels. Accommodations feature striking views of the property's immaculate gardens and the nearby Casa Batlló. Guests can expect five-star service, timeless room and suite design, and delicious meals at the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant.

Mercer Hotel Barcelona (Gothic Quarter)

Address: Calle dels Lledó, 7, Barcelona 08002, Spain Phone: +34 933 107 480

A stay at the Mercer Hotel is unlike any other in Barcelona, as the boutique property was built atop a wall of Barcino, the ancient Roman city, in what is now the Gothic Quarter. After a day of exploring the city, the elegant accommodations offer a refuge from the urban bustle, and travelers can look forward to lounging on the property's private terrace or taking a dip in the on-site plunge pool. Modern design enthusiasts and history buffs can anticipate medieval arches, 12th-century frescoes, 18th-century wooden ceilings, sleek furniture, and expressionist art by Agustí Puig.

W Barcelona (La Barceloneta)

Address: Plaça Rosa del Vents, 1, Final Passeig de Joan de Borbó, Barcelona 08039, Spain Phone: +34 932 95 28 00

One of the most iconic buildings in the city, the W Hotel's distinct, curved silhouette sits right where the sand meets the sea. The interiors are just as modern and sleek as the exterior, which was designed by legendary architect Ricardo Bofill. Guests can expect panoramic views of the Mediterannean from each of the 473 five-star rooms and suites.

Bar Cañete (Seafood, Tapas)

Address: Carrer de la Unió, 17, 08001 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 932 703 458

Don't be fooled by this restaurant's low-key exterior — the menu's seafood from local Catalan fish markets and seasonal produce yields some of the freshest tapas in the city. Reservations can be made by phone, required only for parties of 12 or more.

Caelis (Contemporary)

Address: Via Laietana, 49 (Hotel Ohla Barcelona), Barcelona 08003, Spain Phone: +34 935 101 205

Chef Romain Fornell and his team serve up daring and inspired contemporary dishes on three different tasting menus at this Michelin-starred restaurant inside Hotel Ohla. Reservations are recommended (online or via phone), seating is indoors, and guests must adhere to a smart dress code.

Disfrutar (Contemporary)

Address: Carrer de Villarroel, 163, barcelona 08036, Spain Phone: +34 933 486 896

This Eixample-based restaurant serves up creative Mediterranean cuisine in an intimate space, decorated with ceramics and light hues to honor the city — and was founded by the famous trio of chefs that used to helm El Bullu. Reservations are available online or via phone.

Dos Palillos (Tapas, fusion)

Address: Carrer d'Elisabets, 9, Barcelona 08001, Spain Phone: +34 93 304 05 13

Based on Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cuisines, the fusion tapas at Dos Palillos are divine, so the tasting menu comes highly recommended (you'll want to make a reservation online or by phone). If you prefer to eat a la carte and try a cocktail, you can sit at the bar, no reservation required.

El Falafel de Shani (Falafel, Kosher, Vegan)

Address: La Rambla, 91 Mercat de la Boqueria, 133-134, 08011 Barcelona Phone: + 34 692 967 297

It might be easy to miss this no-nonsense vegan and kosher falafel stand in La Boqueria, but it's worth seeking out — many consider it to be the best falafel in the city (and very affordable).

El Nacional (Iberian)

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 24 bis 08007 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +(34) 93 518 50 53

This spacious eatery has dynamic menu offerings that are just as impressive as the venue's eye-catching, glass-and-steel architecture. Guests can choose from four different cuisines or four different bars throughout the venue.

Llambar (Tapas)

Address: Carrer de la Fusina 5, 08003 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 933 19 62 50

Nestled in El Born, Llambar's menu is meant to be shared, complete with signature cocktails, an extensive wine list, and artisanal Spanish tapas. Reservations (not required but recommended, since the atmospheric spot is so popular) can be made online or via phone.

Suculent (Tapas, Mediterranean)

Address: Rambla del Raval, 45, 08001 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 443 65 79

Helmed by El Bulli alum Toni Romero, Suculent has become a trendy Raval staple, known for reliably delicious tapas and a lively atmosphere. The culinary team serves up classics and reinvented Spanish and Mediterannean dishes with an emphasis on flavorful broths and sauces.

Basilica of the Sagrada Familia

Address: Carrer Mallorca, 401 Barcelona 08013 Phone: +34 932 080 414

Known worldwide as a symbol of the historic city, the Sagrada Familia is Gaudí's most celebrated work of art and architecture. Design and construction of the church began in 1882 and is ongoing to this day. It's recommended to book tickets online in advance to save time in lines when visiting.

Address: Carrer d'Arístides Maillol, 12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 902 1899 00

Barcelona is home to one of the most beloved futbol teams in the entire world: FC Barcelona. So it is only fitting that Camp Nou is one of the most magnificent sports stadiums in Europe, boasting a seating capacity of 99,354. Do your best to book tickets to a game (bookable via the stadium's website or TicketMaster).

Casa Batlló

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 216 03 06

With it's distinct marine-inspired façade, Gaudí's famous Casa Batlló (a UNESCO World Heritage site) looms high over Passeig de Gracia. It's one of Europe's best examples of modernist architecture and worth exploring inside and out.

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 92, 08008 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 932 142 576

Nicknamed "La Pedrera" (stone quarry), Casa Milà in Eixample was completed by Gaudí in 1912, and is known as his final civic work. It's striking appearance takes inspiration from nature, and was the famed architect's most advanced approach to a building.

Castell de Montjuïc

Address: Carretera de Montjuïc 66, 08038 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 932 564 440

Many flock to the Montjuïc barrio to explore the 17th-century Castell de Montjuïc or to catch the Magic Fountain light show from the steps of the stately National Museum of Art. Pro tip: don't miss out on the lesser-known but equally striking Jardí Botànic, located on the hillside. The spacious, verdant gardens offer a tranquil outdoor oasis as well as lovely views of the city.

La Boqueria

Address: Rambla, 91, 08001 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 318 20 17

Arguably the best open market in the word, La Boqueria is a European icon. Though it gets very crowded (especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m) it features incredibly fresh produce, meats, cheeses, sweets, cafes, bars, and more. Pro tip: bring your camera.

Mount Tibidabo

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Address: Tibidabo Square, 08035 Barcelona, Spain

Take the historic funicular up to Barcelona's highest peak, Mount Tibidabo, where in addition to a charming amusement park (the second-oldest in Europe) and Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón, you'll find panoramic views of the entire city, the Mediterranean, and surrounding mountains.

Palau de la Música Catalana

Address: Carrer Palau de la Música, 4-6, 08003 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 295 7200

Designed by Lluis Domenech i Montaner and completed in 1908, Palau de la Música Catalana features one of the most opulent interiors in Spain. Make purchasing tickets for any musical performance a priority while in Barcelona so that you can experience the grande Palau in person.

Address: 08024 Barcelona, Spain

Named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984, this whimsical masterpiece created by Antoni Gaudí is one of the most iconic parks in the world. It's full of color, dynamic shapes, split ceramics, innovative architecture, and lush gardens — and overlooks a vast swath of the beautiful city.

Picasso Museum

Address: Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 256 30 00

One of the primary art attractions in the whole city, the Picasso Museum helps viewers understand the formative years of Pablo Picasso. The permanent collection, made up of 4,251 works from a variety of time periods, helps to convey the artist's early career and special relationship with Barcelona.

Colette Barcelona (Jewelry)

Address: Carrer de les Panses 5, 08003-Barcelona, Spain Phone: +0034.93.170.81.23

You'll find sweet, feminine jewelry at Colette Barcelona, a design house and showroom in El Born that does all the brand's designing, dyeing, mounting, and ironing locally. The pieces have a distinct style, as the jewelry is crafted with mixed materials and textiles.

El Corte Inglés Plaça Catalunya (Department store)

Address: Plaça de Catalunya, 14, Barcelona 08002, Spain Phone: +34 933 06 38 00

This iconic and centrally-located department store at the edge of Plaça Catalunya has everything from clothing and cosmetics to homeware, local delicacies, electronics, and much more — including a food court and supermarket.

Entre Latas (Specialty food)

Address: Torrijos, 16, 08012 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 930 154 725

This gourmet shop is the place to go for canned and preserved foods. Entre Latas carries everything from local delicacies to imported products — think specialty vermouth, rare spices, tinned fish, paté, and preserves. You can even create your own personalized gourmet pack.

Iriarte Iriarte​ (Handbags)

Address: Carrer dels Cotoners 12, 08003 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 933 198 175

Anyone who adores handbags must visit Iriarte Iriarte. The brand uses traditional techniques and hand-dying to create stylish leather bags, handcrafted in Barcelona since 2009.

La Manual Alpargatera (Espadrilles)

Address: Carrer de Avinyó 7, 08002, Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 933 01 01 72

Since 1940, the design team at La Manual Alpargatera has produced sustainably-crafted, timeless espadrilles, entirely handmade in Barcelona. La Manual is a staple for locals and travelers — in fact, the brand's storefront design is so iconic that it's said a customer addressed a letter to the company using a drawing of the store (rather than the physical address), and it arrived via the post just fine.

Llibreria Altaïr (Books)

Address: Gran Via, 616, 08007 Barcelona, Spain Phone: +34 93 342 71 71

This vast bookstore is one of the very best in the city, known for a specialization in books about travel, language, culture, and exploring the world. A meeting point and lively cultural space, you'll want to spend a good chunk of time exploring the many titles — and be sure to grab a bite at the store's sweet cafe, too.

Santa Eulalia (Designer fashion)

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 93, Barcelona 08008, Spain Phone: +34 932 15 06 74

Founded in 1843, this historic and design-forward clothing store features a myriad of high-end labels such as Tom Ford, Dior, Lanvin, and the like. It also boasts its own ready-to-wear collection for women and a bespoke shirt-making service for men.

Zara Flagship (Fashion)

Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 16, Barcelona 08007, Spain Phone: +34 933 18 76 75

Spanish-based fashion empire Zara, a wardrobe staple for many across the globe, is housed in a stately flagship store flanked by columns on bustling Passeig de Gràcia. Pop inside to find the latest ready-to-wear, couture-inspired clothing, with styles for men, women, and children ranging from timeless to trendy and everywhere in between.

Eixample: Broad boulevards, courtyards, ample trees, and excellent shopping and dining options make Eixample a wonderful home base when visiting BCN. You'll find Gaudí's classics like Casa Battló, Casa Milà, and the Sagrada Familia in this neighborhood, alongside other great works of both traditional and modern architecture.

El Born: Like the neighboring Gothic Quarter, El Born is known for the narrow, meandering medieval streets, but it's slightly less busy. Here, travelers will discover especially good shopping (think stylish boutiques), artsy vibes, wonderful restaurants and bars, and close proximity to the beach.

El Raval: Located about a 10-minute walk from Plaça Catalunya, El Raval is a vibrant neighborhood known for its character, authentic restaurants and bars, and the impressive Museum of Contemporary Art. Two streets in particular, Carrer dels Tallers and Carrer de La Riera Baixa, are especially good for vintage and second-hand shopping. Those in search of an authentic taste of Barcelona life will enjoy exploring this barrio, but be mindful of your surroundings, as parts of Raval can be a bit shifty (avoid unlit alleys or walking alone at night).

Gothic Quarter: Known by locals as Barri Gòtic, this charming old town neighborhood is full of legendary Gothic architecture nestled along narrow, medieval-era streets. In addition to checking out the trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques, see remains of the old Roman city at the Museu d'Història de Barcelona.

Gràcia: Vila de Gràcia is the epitome of authentic, leisurely life in Barcelona. The neighborhood is a bit quieter than its more centrally-located counterparts, and you'll find it's chock full of beautiful plaças, atmospheric restaurants and bars, eclectic galleries, and independent boutiques. You can easily spend all day in this uncrowded, village-like neighborhood.

La Barceloneta: Nestled right by the sea, La Barceloneta is an energetic and historic beachside neighborhood that offers more than a touristy stretch of sand if you know what to look for. Come for the seafood (ahem, paella ) and stay for the hopping bar scene.

Poble Sec: Bordering scenic Montjuïc, Poble Sec is one of the most lively neighborhoods in Barcelona, adored by locals and thus slightly less touristy. Boasting dozens of small bars, restaurants, and boutiques, this upbeat area has wonderful dancing and theater options, too.

True to the Mediterranean, Barcelona sees mild temperatures for the majority of the year. August is the city's hottest and most humid month, with temperatures averaging 77 °F, and January is the coldest month, with averages around 49 °F. Precipitation hovers around 25 inches annually, with October being the wettest month.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January 41 - 57 February 42 - 58 March 46 - 51 April 50 - 65 May 57 - 71 June 63 - 77 July 69 - 83 August 69 - 84 September 64 - 79 October 58 - 72 November 48 - 64 December 43 - 58

TMB: Maps and access to Barcelona's metro, buses, trains, and more.

Renfe Cercanias: Regional and country-wide train maps, tickets, timetables, and more.

Google Translate: Quick and downloadable language translation service.

Related Articles

Barcelona Safety 2024: Is Barcelona Safe to Visit?

Barcelona is a giant magnet for tourists – it attracts 20 million of them yearly . But is this city, as popular as it is, safe for visitors?

Yes! Barcelona is one of the safest destinations to visit. But, like with any tourist hotspot, you have to be smart.

Some areas warrant caution, especially after the sun sets. So, today, we want to give you the rundown of everything you need to keep in mind when you’re visiting Barcelona, from the most prevalent crimes to weather information, public transportation safety, and more.

Is Barcelona Safe?

Barcelona made it to the top 20 safest destinations globally in 2020, ranking 11th according to the Economist ! With a safety index of 77.8, it outshines other iconic destinations like New York   (77.8), London   (77.2), and Paris   (74.3).

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Here’s what we found:

• Both Canada and the United States give Barcelona some of the mildest travel warnings
• Its crime rating is moderate—51.18 according to Numbeo
• The most common crime is theft of bags or wallets
• The most crime-concentrated district is Ciutat Vella
• Local transit is safe and efficient, but at night, take a taxi
• Spain has one of the top healthcare systems in the world
• It’s safe for solo travelers, but there is the risk of petty crime
• Apart from storms and heatwaves, Barcelona is not at risk from devastating natural disasters
• Carbon monoxide poisoning is a risk, so bring a portable CO detector in case your accommodation doesn’t have one
• Keep an eye on the beach warning flags—they come in different colors, each signaling a different safety level

Travel Advisory for Spain

According to the U.S. Department of State travel advisory, travelers need to “Exercise Increased Caution” in Spain due to the possibility of crime. Still, the chances of anything happening during your vacation are pretty low, so you can travel confidently if you exercise caution.

The Canadian Government advises tourists to “Take Normal Precautionary Measures,” which is the mildest safety advisory. The Canadian travel advisory highlights that the most prevalent crimes tourists can be exposed to are pickpocketing and purse snatching, home burglaries, scams, fraud, and spiked food and drinks.

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, it’s good to know that both the U.S. and Canada consider this destination safe for travelers. While the chances of any issues are pretty low, like in any country, it’s always smart to be cautious.

A Comprehensive Look at Barcelona Crime Rates

Barcelona has a moderate crime rating of 51.18. 

The most common crimes revolve around personal safety , with the most prevalent being the theft of bags or wallets.

Crime rate surveys reveal where these crimes are most likely to happen: open public spaces take the lead, with nearly half of the crimes occurring there, followed by public transport. Ciutat Vella is the district with the most incidents , recording 122 crimes per 100 inhabitants, followed by Eixample, with 44.1 crimes per 100 inhabitants. Keep your eyes open in these areas!

Police Presence in Barcelona

In Barcelona, the ‘Guardia Urbana’ plays a big part in maintaining order and security throughout the city. Their responsibilities, ranging from traffic control to dealing with antisocial behavior and ensuring the security of public spaces, play a crucial role in creating a safe environment for both residents and visitors.

The Guardia Urbana are approachable and easy to talk to, especially in tourist hotspots where the great majority of officers speak English. If you’re ever in danger or just need help with directions, they’re there for you. Their emergency number is 092 .

Public Transportation Safety in Barcelona

Barcelona has a fantastic public transport system that makes zipping from one place to another super convenient. However, public transportation is a hub for petty crime, so be extremely cautious when you’re using public transport to get around town.

Barcelona’s metros and trains run at breakneck speed , so you don’t have to be concerned with timetables. Other choices for local transportation in Barcelona include city buses, cable cars, funicular trains, and sightseeing buses.

Metro and FGC Railway stations have ticket machines or booths and if you’re hopping on a bus, you can just grab a ticket from the driver. The metro and buses usually run from 5 am to 2 am, and night buses run until the morning—still, hopping on one late at night might not be the best idea, as you may bump into not-so-friendly characters.

Opt for a taxi instead. The biggest taxi service in Barcelona is Radio Taxi 033 . Their number is +34 933 033 033. A taximeter regulates the taxi prices in this city, so you don’t have to worry that you’ll be overcharged. The colors of the cars are black and yellow. Uber is also available in Barcelona, so that’s another option you can consider.

Medical Care Quality in Barcelona

Spain boasts one of the world’s best healthcare systems—the World Health Organization ranked it 7th globally in 2009. If you ever need medical help in Barcelona, know that you’re in good hands—some of the finest in the world!

Barcelona has 58 hospitals in town , including 12 public and 46 private ones.

The main hospitals are Hospital del Mar , Hospital Clínic , Hospital Universitari de la Vall d’Hebron , and Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau . These hospitals provide emergency services, exceptional medical experts, and cutting-edge medical technology.

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in Barcelona?

Barcelona is one of the safest places worldwide, so you can explore the city solo without any worries.

Police are reliable, friendly to tourists, and here to help you with any safety issues. Medical facilities are top-notch. Getting from point A to point B is very easy thanks to the efficient public transport. Taxis are reliable and won’t overcharge you.

Still, you can’t underestimate the risk of pickpocketing and petty theft. While the city does a great job at keeping residents and tourists safe, you also have a responsibility to be street-smart and cautious while traveling. That means sticking to well-lit spots, keeping your belongings close or in a safe spot, not roaming around alone at night (especially if you’re female), and not engaging with strangers.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Barcelona

Barcelona rarely faces extreme weather. No hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, volcanoes. But every now and then, the city might experience heavy rainfall and heatwaves.

The peak season for storms in Barcelona happens in the fall and winter—when rain is most prevalent.  Storms can bring floods, thunder, and gusty winds. The most recent major storm hit in May, flooding highways and metro stations.

If a storm happens during your visit, stay in your hotel, avoid driving, and keep an eye on weather updates . Your outdoor plans might need to wait, but you can relax indoors, catch up on a series, and wait for the sun to return.

Barcelona can get seriously hot in the summer. Temperatures can hit the high 90s or even low 100s°F (30s/40s°C).

While the city is safe in the heat, you want to be smart—too much sun can bring heat exhaustion and make you feel dizzy, and there’s also the risk of heatstroke —the symptoms are high body temperature, confusion, fast pulse, and eventually passing out.

So remember to hydrate, rest in the shade, drink water, and avoid being outside during the hottest period of the day.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Barcelona

In 2013 , during a concert in Barcelona, 35 people got carbon monoxide poisoning due to faulty heaters. Most cases were mild, but three were serious. Another incident in 2021 hit about 60 kids and nine adults at a holiday camp in Barcelona.

It’s not just Barcelona—this can happen anywhere, from an Airbnb in Mexico City or a church in Paris to a hotel in London or in Amsterdam .

This deadly gas can leak from heaters, stoves, or furnaces when they aren’t well-vented. Exposure to the gas in an enclosed space can make you dizzy, knock you out, or, in extreme cases, be fatal.

Officials say every room needs a CO detector, from bedrooms to big venues. When in Barcelona, ask if your hotel has one. They monitor air quality and warn if there’s dangerous gas. For extra safety, carry a portable CO detector . They’re not pricey (around $20), so they’re a good investment for traveling.

The Safety of Barcelona Beaches

Barcelona’s beaches are stunning, but watch out for pickpockets. If you’re visiting the beach alone and want to get into the water, kindly ask someone who seems reliable to you to watch out for your things while you’re in the water—families are the wisest option! Don’t bring anything but the essentials to the beach, which means a photocopy of your passport, sunscreen, snacks, and a bit of cash—nothing else.

Barcelona’s beaches use the flag system :

Green: An all-clear sign indicating that it’s safe to swim.

Yellow: Potentially high surf or dangerous currents and undertows, means that swimmers should exercise extreme caution.

Red: Serious hazards or conditions are too dangerous for even the strongest swimmers, so swimming is not allowed.

Black: The beach is closed due to the state of sea and sand.

Barcelona’s beaches might seem inviting in fall and winter, but the waves can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be careful along the water’s edge. If there are severe weather warnings, it’s best to steer clear of beaches and coastal areas altogether.

Barcelona Weather Patterns: What to Expect

In Barcelona, the warm season is from June to September, with daily highs averaging above 75°F (23.8°C), peaking in August at around 76°F (24.4°C).

The cold season is longer, running from November to March . The average daily highs during this season drop below 54°F (12.2°C), hitting a low in January at 47°F (8.3°C).

From June to September, Barcelona enjoys nothing but clear skies and dry weather, especially in July (84% clear and 0.8in/20.32mm of rain). The days get more cloudy from September and are common until May, with October being the cloudiest (45% overcast and 2.4in/60.96mm of rain).

Monthly Average Temperatures in Barcelona

When is the best time to visit barcelona.

Barcelona’s a beauty year-round, but we’d say the best times to visit it are in spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). The weather’s warm and perfect for exploring the city without the overwhelmingly big crowds the city gets during the summer.

Still, there’s no bad time to visit Barcelona. The best time for you will depend on your priorities. Here’s the lowdown:

Best weather:  Barcelona boasts the finest weather from late May to early October. This is the time to experience Barcelona’s beaches to the fullest, especially in July and August, when the sea is the warmest. But just a heads up: this is also peak season, meaning the city and its beaches will be buzzing with crowds. And yep, prices for flights, hotels, and city tours take a little spike too.

Honeymoon: For a dreamy honeymoon in Barcelona, aim for late spring (May and June) or early fall (September and October). The city is not as crowded as in peak summer, so it has a more intimate vibe.

Avoiding crowds: Winter (January-February) and early spring (March) are the quietest and most budget-friendly seasons. No need to rush before museum tickets sell out and accommodations come with pocket-friendly prices.

Shopping season: The biggest sales are usually in the summer, from July to August, and in winter, from early January all through February.

How to Stay Safe in Barcelona

• Avoid spots where protests are happening, such as around the central squares Plaça de Catalunya and Plaça Sant Jaume or the major avenue Passeig de Gràcia.
• Thieves are most active in airports, public transport spots, hotels, restaurants, beaches, and tourist spots
• Keep your belongings, especially passports, secure—get a copy of your passport to take with you everywhere and leave the original safe in your accommodation
• Carry only essentials at the beach
• Watch your luggage everywhere—airports, car rentals, hotels
• Be cautious with online friendships or romances—they might not be what they seem
• Don’t accept drinks like snacks or drinks from a stranger—they might contain substances that could put you at risk of harm.
• Keep your credit card PIN secret—cover the keypad with one hand when you’re using an ATM.
• Stick to ATMs in public spots, like malls, or inside banks.

Emergency Numbers

• Police, ambulance, fire brigade: 112
• Police: 091
• Fire brigade: 080
• Emergency Ambulance: 061

In Barcelona, thieves are the most active at the following locations: Barceloneta Beach El-Prat airport Airport shuttle bus (the Aerobus) Güell park The Las Ramblas street The Passeig de Gràcia shopping street The Plaça de Catalunya central square The Plaça Reial old city square and the surrounding streets Sants train and bus station The subway system

Barcelona’s tap water is safe to drink. It meets all the safety standards set by the European Union and the World Health Organization .

Over and Out!

Barcelona proudly sits among the top 20 safest destinations worldwide and is categorized as safe by both the U.S. and Canadian travel advisories. Feel free to start packing!

Still, it’s wise to stay alert. Keep an eye out for pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas. Stay vigilant in metro and train stations, particularly after dark. Safe travels!

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers

Is Spain Safe to Visit?

Is Slovenia Safe to Visit?

12 Safest Countries in Europe to Visit in 2024

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Things to do in Barcelona – The 12 Best Attractions and Hidden Gems

I love barcelona, and in this guide, i'll share the best things to do in barcelona and some personal favourites..

Perhaps one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and undoubtedly one of the most popular travel destinations on the continent – Barcelona is eternally popular, and there is plenty of things to do in Barcelona.

Planning a last minute trip to Barcelona? Here are some of my favourite places to stay & things to do: 🛌 Places to Stay : 1. Ohla Barcelona (best luxury hotel with a rooftop pool) 2. Yurbban Ramblas (fantastic location & modern rooms at a fair rate) 3. Hotel Nouvel (cheap, but decent hotel in the city centre) Top Activities & Tours : 1. Get the Hola Barcelona Card & get unlimited use of public transport (you wont regret this!) 2. Make sure you book Sagrada Familia Skip The Line Tickets as the lines get super long 3. Take a Tapas & Wine Food Tour with a local guide

In this guide, we look at things to do in Barcelona to be noticed on a trip to the Spanish coastal city.

1. Sagrada Familia – Barcelona’s most famous sight

2. shopping & sightseeing on the rambla, 3. la boqueria – food market next to the rambla, 4. telefèric de montjuïc (barcelona cable car), 5. fc barcelona from the inside – visit camp nou, 6. the beaches 🏖, 7. park güell, 8. barcelona cathedral, 9. the gothic quarter, 10. hop on hop off bus , 11. experience a flamenco show, 12. day trip to montserrat.

Let’s jump straight into the travel guide, beginning with one of Spain ‘s most famous tourist attractions.

What to do and see in Barcelona? Here are some of my favourites after 4 trips to the Spanish coastal city.

I can’t have a Barcelona travel guide without the Sagrada Familia. As Antoni Gaudi started building the iconic building in 1882 (!), he hardly expected that the work on the church would last well over 100 years.

Nevertheless, this is the case with the Sagrada Familia, which still needs to be completed, but Barcelona’s most famous landmark nonetheless and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Barcelona.

The Sagrada Familia is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and you can enjoy the view of the church from many parts of Barcelona. Of course, it is free to look at the church from the outside, while it costs money to visit the church.

Tip: buy a ticket to the Sagrada Familia online & skip the queue

The church is one of the most famous in the world and most tourists who visit Barcelona want to experience the church from the inside. That’s why there is a long queue!

You can avoid this if you are a little bright as you can buy fast-track tickets, which allow you to skip the queue and enter directly.

You must buy these tickets online.

Get tickets for Sagrada Familia here .

La Rambla is a street in the centre of Barcelona that you will undoubtedly pass by if you visit Barcelona for the first time.

There is a string of restaurants, bars and shops on the street, where there is always plenty of life. In the summer months, when there are extra many tourists, the street can feel too packed, and there are queues at the good restaurants.

As the Rambla is the street everyone must visit when they travel to Barcelona, there are, unfortunately, some tourist traps you must watch out for.

Therefore, I recommend anyone who wants to experience the good Barcelona atmosphere and enjoy a meal at one of the Rambla’s many restaurants to read up on various restaurants from home.

Use a site like Tripadvisor or Google Maps and read reviews from previous guests. Then you will surely get a good meal and not waste your money on a tourist trap.

You can also stroll on the Rambla and look at shops (and people). Start at the top near Placa Catalunya metro station and walk down to the old port.

It’s an excellent walk.

By the way, I recommend getting the Hola BCN Card that gives you unlimited access to public transport in all of Barcelona for either 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours.

You can even use the Hola BCN Card to and from Barcelona Airport .

Around the middle of the Rambla, we find La Boqueria, which is a brilliant food market in the city centre of Barcelona.

There are also small ‘restaurants’ inside the market where you can sit at the bar and watch your fish being prepared.

There is everything from fresh fruit to street food and huge frozen fish.

Undoubtedly one of the places in Barcelona you have to experience – even though it is pretty touristy (with the location right on the Rambla), it is a fascinating place to drop by.

Have you read my guide on the best areas and places to stay in Barcelona ? In that guide I’m mentioning several hotels close to La Boqueria.

One thing that sets Barcelona apart from other popular big cities in Europe is the opportunity to take a (rather long) trip by cable car, where you can see how big the city is.

From the Montjuïc cable car , you can spot the city’s well-known sights, with the Sagrada Familia, as mentioned above, naturally being the easiest to spot.

The cable car is named after the district/hill of Montjüic , an epicentre of art in Barcelona and thus worth exploring if you have these interests.

The Montjuïc cable car is a reasonably cheap sight/experience in Barcelona, so I would recommend everyone to experience it. 

The trip is approximately 750 meters long, and there are 3 stops on the cable car, so there is plenty of opportunity to explore the entire hill.

Get tickets here .

FC Barcelona has been one of the best football teams in the world for many years, and you can think about the club what you want, but their stadium & the club’s history is unique.

Therefore, I recommend anyone with the slightest interest in football visit Camp Nou and experience FC Barcelona from the inside.

You have to book your tour of the stadium in advance and it is recommended to book as far in advance as possible.

If you have already booked your flight and hotel in Barcelona, then you can start planning when you will visit Camp Nou and book the tickets.

You get a 1.5-hour tour of Camp Nou, including the dedicated FC Barcelona museum, where many treasures from the great club’s incredible history are displayed.

Read more about the tour and get tickets here .

By the way, it is super easy to get to the stadium from the Rambla with the metro.

I used the Hola BCN Card and got there in 15 minutes from the Drassanes metro station.

I am not a fan of FC Barcelona myself, but I am happy with football, and it was awe-inspiring to visit the Barcelona museum at Camp Nou.

Whether you like the club, its history is imposing, and the stadium is iconic.

As a football fan, it was a great experience to step into the stadium (which, by the way, you do directly from the museum) from which I have sat and watched so many football matches as a child.

Camp Nou is indeed Barcelona’s best thing to do for football fans. 

And then to something that attracts many tourists when the summer holiday destination has to be chosen, and the choice falls on Barcelona: the excellent beach.

Fascinating big cities with a beach are relatively hard to find here in Europe, but Barcelona has excellent beaches close to the city centre.

It doesn’t get much better 😀

If you want to experience Barcelona from the seaside, consider taking a boat trip. 

Check out the best boat tours in Barcelona .

Park Güell is as iconic to Barcelona as the beach and the Sagrada Familia. If you didn’t get enough of experiencing Barcelona’s skyline from the cable car, then in Park Güell, you can also get an outstanding view of the city.

The park is also the place in Barcelona that most travellers visit yearly – with good reason.

In addition to the epic view of Barcelona, there are an incredible number of quirky buildings in the park, so the cheap entry price is well worth it.

Get tickets in advance here .

I recommend walking down towards the city centre from the park as you’ll walk through the romantic Gracia area – one of the best areas to stay in Barcelona.

We jump right back to the central part of the city, where the impressive cathedral is one of the things to do in Barcelona you need to drop by.

La Sagrada Familia naturally takes first place in “must-see churches”, but the cathedral in the centre is also stunning.

Read more and get tickets here .

The cathedral is located in a neighbourhood high on the list of areas in Barcelona you would like to visit and stay in as a tourist.

Here are narrow streets and beautiful old buildings. For me, it evoked memories of the old town in Florence and perhaps Trastevere in Rome .

In any case, without a doubt an area where you can spend many hours just wandering around, looking at buildings and shops and then finding a cosy café and getting some delicious food.

As in all other big cities in Europe, Barcelona has dedicated sightseeing buses. I enjoy walking a lot of kilometres when I’m on a city break, but I’ve also enjoyed taking sightseeing buses.

In Barcelona, you can take a few different lines on the sightseeing buses so that you can see most of Barcelona’s best-known sights from the open double-decker bus.

You can see the routes and get tickets online at GetYourGuide here .

If there is one place in the world you must experience a flamenco show, it is Spain. Here in Barcelona, there is a long-standing tradition of dancing flamenco.

It is challenging to sit still and not be captivated when you experience a Flamenco show, so if you would like to have a different evening in Barcelona, this is a good bet.

See more about one of the best shows here .

There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona for many days, but if you want to experience something completely different from the busy streets and beaches, then a day trip to the Montserrat monastery is a great idea.

Montserrat is a small town up in the mountains a little inland from Barcelona, which, as you know, is on the coast:

You can take the train from Barcelona to Montserrat, but guided tours from Barcelona to the monastery run daily. GetYourGuide has launched their own tour, which includes a visit to the Montserrat monastery, a wine tasting and lunch.

See more about the trip and book online here .

I hope you can use this guide to the best things to do in Barcelona. You are welcome to comment below if you have any questions about Barcelona or your trip.

Otherwise, I just want to wish you an excellent trip to fantastic Barcelona.

Read all my Barcelona travel guides here .

Websites I use to book my trips 👇 • Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay • GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation • This power bank is the one thing I never travel without • Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers Psst 👀 Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Ultimate Barcelona Travel Guide: The Best Places to Stay and Explore

Traveling to Barcelona? Here is everything you need to know, including what to do, where to stay and eat in Barcelona.

Last updated: August 29, 2023

Home to several Gaudi’s masterpieces, Barcelona is a perfect travel destination for people of all walks of life . Remarkable architecture, beaches near city center, and delicious Catalan cuisine make this multicultural city irresistible. Once you visit Barcelona, the second largest city in Spain, you want to come back again and again. No exceptions here! And if it comes from a person who just a few days ago didn’t have any expectations from Barcelona whatsoever, you know it must be true.

The city, however, is large to say the least and can be overwhelming at first. To make things easier for you, we have prepared this ultimate Barcelona travel guide with the best places to stay, eat, and play. Read on, use this Barcelona travel guide, and you’ll feel like a local in no time.

THE ULTIMATE BARCELONA TRAVEL GUIDE:

Travel to barcelona: what to know.

Vibrant and colorful, Barcelona is a capital of the Catalonia region of Spain . A few significant characteristics set this area apart from other Spanish regions. First, Catalonia has enriched the world with some of the finest examples of its impeccable art and architecture. (Just travel to Barcelona and feast your eyes on Gaudi’s buildings.)

Second, it added an additional language to a vast number of foreign languages existing in the world nowadays. Yes, the alluring region of Catalonia has two official languages: Spanish and Catalan . While both of them are widely spoken, Catalan dominates in offices and schools.

The official currency in Spain, including Barcelona, is the euro, which makes travel across Europe convenient. 

Barcelona is a safe city to travel to and live in . Common sense and precaution, however, should be exercised, especially if you ache to explore nightlife of Barcelona. The crime rate in the capital of Catalonia is nearly the same as you’d find in any other big modern cities.

At the same time travel to Barcelona can be troublesome due to ongoing pickpocketing problems . Therefore, it’s recommended to leave you valuable items locked in a hotel room before venturing to the streets. On that note, carrying a purse or backpack in front of you can eliminate any possibilities of the potential crime when traveling to Barcelona.

The Best Time to Travel to Barcelona

Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, you can travel to Barcelona all year round. While you can’t swim in the sea in winter, the temperatures are high enough to stroll around the city and visit Barcelona’s architectural masterpieces and exclusive eateries.

The best time to travel to Barcelona is from May to June . The temperatures linger in the low to mid-70s, and the streets transform in anticipation of annual festivals. Although these two months offer the best weather, they, along with July, are the busiest time to travel to Barcelona. Thus, expect higher prices for about everything when visiting the capital of Catalonia at this time.

Summers in Barcelona are hot and humid. Even the locals leave the city and search for a breath of fresh air in some other places.

Fewer people travel to Barcelona in March, April, and mid-September through October . The prices for accommodation and some attractions go down. The weather also seem to collaborate with the visitors and locals alike, keeping it neither cold nor hot.

The cheapest month to travel to Barcelona is January . Although gusty winds try to keep the visitors inside, the temperatures are never too low to stop you from exploring the city. For those who do travel to Barcelona in January, be sure to bundle up and pack extra layers.

How Much Time Do You Need to Travel to Barcelona

Barcelona is a remarkable city that asks for quite some time to show its diverse cultures and sites and introduce the visitors to its rich cuisine. Frankly, you can never see everything Barcelona has to offer even if you have a lifetime to spend in the city. Nevertheless, while it can be extremely rushy, it’s not impossible to visit Barcelona and explore some of its landmarks in one day .

To be able to see and do more than just scratching the surface, set aside at least 3 to 4 days for a visit to Barcelona . Spend the first two days exploring the cultural and historic treasures of the city. Then change your travel plans and devote the rest of your time to dining and shopping in Barcelona. 

Travel to Barcelona: Arriving 

The most popular way to travel to Barcelona is by air, arriving at Barcelona El-Prat Airport . The drive from the airport to the city takes approximately 50 minutes.

If you arrive at the daytime and don’t carry too many suitcases, you are probably better off taking public transportation. The Aerobus , Barcelona Airport express shuttle bus, running from and to terminal 1 and 2, will take you to various locations in the center of the city. Ticket prices range from 8 to 15 euros. Other options to get to the city include taking a train  or navigating your way through  Barcelona metro . Each of these rides is under 5 euros.

For those who arrive late in the evening and aren’t willing to explore Barcelona at night so soon, taxi comes in handy. It’s by far the fastest way to travel to Barcelona center from the airport. It takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes. The prices, however, are higher, ranging from 30 to 45 euros.

Uber has an ongoing love-hate relationship with Barcelona. It thrived in the city when we last visited Barcelona. As of March 2019, Uber suspended its operations in the capital of Catalonia.  

Travel to Barcelona: Getting Around 

Barcelona is a walkable city. You can tick off your bucket list destinations without resorting to public transportation. Furthermore, exploring the city on foot has additional benefits. You can find some of the hidden gems that are not so uncommon in Barcelona.

If walking is not your cup of tea, public transport helps you travel in Barcelona fast and easy. Besides being reliable and frequent, the city’s buses and metro trains are the cheapest way to get around. One-way ride costs 2.60 euros. For those who plan to use the public transport a lot, a day pass with unlimited rides for 10 euros is a way to go. And, of course, you can always flag down a taxi when traveling in Barcelona.

Districts and Neighborhoods: What to See and Where to Stay When You Travel to Barcelona

Understanding and orienting in Barcelona’s extensive districts was by far the biggest issue I had when planning our trip. Every potential hotel emphasized the district it’s located in. At some point, it felt like we were about to travel to a handful of small towns under a huge umbrella of Barcelona.

Interesting fact : Since 1984, Barcelona has been divided into 10 specific districts, which are further broken down into 73 smaller neighborhoods. Each district is unique and shows different sides of the city.

Knowing the location of the districts can save you big money and improve your overall Barcelona travel experience. While some districts boast the major attractions of the city, others let you travel and stay in Barcelona on a very acceptable budget . Check out this complete guide to the 10 districts of Barcelona and pick the area that fits your budget and interests.

Ciutat Vella

Ciutat Vella, better known as the Gothic Quarter, is the oldest district of Barcelona and one of the most popular travel destinations. Nestled in the heart of the city, the place is busy, chaotic, and especially lovely to observe Barcelona’s lifestyle .

The Ciutat Vella district is regarded as the most valuable historical center of the city. The place is home to such cultural and architectural highlights as Plaza Real , Barcelona Cathedral , and famous La Rambla . The most popular neighborhoods to travel to in the district include El Raval , Barri Gotic , and Barceloneta .

The central districts of Barcelona such as Eixample collect the biggest number of the landmarks and improve your travel with their exceptional shopping experiences. So, one of the busiest areas in the city, the Eixample district houses a collection of Gaudi’s masterpieces . Travel to this part of Barcelona and enjoy its remarkable Casa Batlló , Casa Milà , and famous La Sagrada Família, all set within a walking distance from each other. Other popular attractions to explore in the Eixample district are Casa de les Punxes .

After the tour through the prominent architectural masterpieces, redirect your travel to the luxurious and authentic side of Barcelona. The district is dotted with stylish boutiques and authentic bars and restaurants. The majority of them line up around iconic Plaça de Catalunya , Passeig de Gràcia, and Diagonal Avenue.

Once a separate Catalan town near the limits of Barcelona, Gràcia is one of the most popular districts in the city nowadays. The area owes this fame to the sunning Gaudi’s architecture in the Park Güell . Another biggest attraction of the district is the Festa  Major  de Gràcia , a street festival that goes on for a week in mid-August. Travel to Barcelona during this time and see how the streets compete with each other to become the best-decorated area in the city.

When looking for hidden gems in the Gràcia district of Barcelona, visit Casa Vicens . Built in the late 19th century as a family’s summer home, this earliest masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí is all about playful architectural style the great artist is famous for. The place rightfully deserves its recognition as a UNESCO Wold Heritage Site.

Despite this exquisite landmarks, fewer tourists travel to this part of Barcelona. You certainly need to use public transport or hire a cab to visit the Gràcia district unless you choose to stay here.

Sants-Montjuïc

Located on the southwestern border of Barcelona, Sants-Montjuïc allures travelers with its scenic city and sea views. If the city vistas are part of your Barcelona itinerary, be sure to visit the Olympic Stadium and feast your eyes on Barcelona’s buildings from above. Montjuïc Mountain , a beautiful hill overlooking Barcelona, also helps you get the best views of the city.

For the panoramic sea views, there is no better place to travel to in Barcelona than Montjuïc Castle, a military fortress that dates back to 1640. The highlight of the Sants-Montjuïc district, however, the stunning Magic Fountain of Montjuïc . 

Home to the famous Camp Nou, a football stadium, Les Corts is one of the smallest districts in Barcelona. The place entices with secluded parks and lesser-known landmarks such as Pedralbes Park and Monastery of Pedralbes .

Horta-Guinardó

Set between Gràcia and Nou Barris, Horta-Guinardó enjoys the company of city’s hills and mountains . Even fewer tourists travel to this gem of Barcelona, making it one of the most peaceful districts. The distant location along with less fuss about the area can’t escape the attention of budget travelers visiting Barcelona. Indeed, the district provides cheaper accommodation and reliable public transport to get to the center of the city.

The highlights of the Horta-Guinardó district are Collserola Park and Hospital de Sant Pau. The latter was declared as an Artistic Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO in 1984.

Populated by immigrants, Nou Barris is the best district to travel to and stay in Barcelona to indulge in different ethnic cuisines . Don’t make any other plans for the day, just check out numerous restaurant and food stalls of the area.

For a break from the international food scene of Barcelona, swing by the epic park around Plaça de ca N’Enseya . The second largest park in Barcelona impresses with the abundance of green spaces and some of the important buildings in the city. You will surely find Santa Creu Mental Institution  (now a Library) and Nou Barris Council Headquarters pleasing to the eye.

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

One of the most exclusive and expensive districts in Barcelona, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi sits in the northwest corner of the city. The area offers a blend of urban tapas bars and boutiques . Pair them with hillside walks at Vallvidrera Reservoir and you set yourself for a unique travel experience.

Once in the Sarrià-Sant Gervasi district, be sure to visit CosmoCaixa Science Museum and Torre Bellesguard . The Torre Bellesguard is one of Gaudí’s works that opened its doors to the public relatively recently. 

Named after an old town that belongs to Barcelona now, Sant Martí sits to the east of the downtown. The district is popular with the locals and visitors favoring beach culture of the city . Home to some of the most popular beaches, the Sant Martí district ensures a rather busy and chaotic Barcelona travel experience. Apart from days filled with sun and sand, the area presents Sant Martí Church and Design Museum for all architecture and art enthusiasts of Barcelona.

Sant Andreu

The last district on our travel guide to the district and neighborhoods of Barcelona is Sant Andreu. Centered around the old town of Sant Andreu in the northwest of Barcelona, it sees mostly the locals. The occasional tourists visit the district to take pictures of Sant Andreu Church , one of the most significant architectural buildings in the area.

Travel to Barcelona: The Best Things to Do

Whether you spend a couple of weeks, a few days, or are quickly passing through Barcelona, you will find plenty of activities to keep you busy and entertained. From its famous parks and squares to unique, colorful architecture, Barcelona redefines the term “ travel ” forever.

Admire Barcelona’s Architecture

Barcelona is a place with a hint of fiesta in it. City’s easy-going spirit is depicted in its every area and corner. Even Barcelona’s architecture with its brightly-colored, unorthodoxly-shaped structures shows the same fun-loving nature. Wandering the streets of Barcelona, you will be amazed by its tall buildings with cute balconies, the majority of which are loaded with beautiful flowers in colorful pots.

These architectural artworks remind of Paris . However, in additional to the perfectly lined-up buildings with green roll-up blinds hanging above the windows, the architecture in Barcelona adopts its unique, playful style.

You can see it in different colors, shapes, and architectural techniques. The best examples of Barcelona’s architecture are Casa Batlló , Casa Milà , and La Sagrada Família . All of these buildings depict the vision and architectural style of their creator, Spanish-Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí.

After enjoying these famous sites, let yourself get lost in the streets of the city. There is no doubt, your self-guided architectural tour will take you to some other impressive gems, such as Casa Vicens Gaudí ,  Gaudí House Museum ,  Casa Amatller , and  Casa de les Punxes , just to name a few.

Visit Park Güell 

Park Güell is your ultimate travel destination in Barcelona. The place is filled with incredible Gaudí’s creations and street performances, unveiling the true nature of Barcelona. Nowhere else in the city, you will find so many things to do and see in one place.

Start with wandering along charming path, El Viaducto dels Enamorats, while listening to Spanish tunes and enjoying flamenco dance masterfully delivered by street performers. Then venture to Passeig de las Palmeras and Austria Gardens for a nice walk among big trees and unusual columns. But above all, make sure to enjoy stunning views of Barcelona from a beautiful main terrace in the heart of Park Güell.

Enjoy Beach Life

If you travel to Barcelona in winter, then you can surely skip this part. A summer visit, however, is all about beaches and beach activities on the shore of the Balearic Sea. With the most popular summer destinations just 15 minutes away from the center of Barcelona, a perfect summer vacation is guaranteed. Some of the best beaches to soak up the sun and swim in the sea include Barceloneta Beach , Sant Miquel , Sant Sebastià , Somorrostro , Nova Icària , and Mar Bella .

Explore La Rambla

As one of the biggest and busiest streets in the capital of the Catalonia region, La Rambla is a must on every Barcelona travel itinerary. Filled with numerous shops, markets, and restaurants, it’s a great place to spend a couple of hours before swirling to the nearby areas and squares of the city.

See Authentic Barcelona at Gothic Quarters

Located just east of La Rambla, the Gothic Quarters surprise with ample narrow medieval streets. Wandering this area is the best way to see authentic Barcelona and buy some memorable souvenirs from small gift shops. Needless to say, the Gothic Quarters can easily win your heart as one of the most photogenic places in Barcelona. Beware of pickpocketing, though.

Indulge in Tapas

Tapas are an essential part of unforgettable Barcelona travel experience. These various small dishes are at the heart of Spanish cuisine. Special bars and restaurants compete with each other, making sure to serve the best tapas in the city. Tapas food tours promise to unveil culinary secrets of Barcelona. Tapas are everywhere, and there are all kinds of them.

You can find different toppings, drinks, and side dishes that go with tapas in Barcelona. Just give this specialty a try and let Barcelona forever change your culinary travel experiences.

Visit Museum Picasso

With the Museum Picasso , Barcelona plays tribute to one of its most famous countryman, Pablo Picasso. Not letting the legacy of the world-known Spanish artist fade, the city houses one of the most extensive collections of Picasso’s artworks. The Museum Picasso boasts more than 4,200 masterpieces, which makes it one of the richest permanent collections.

The museum opens its doors for the visitors all week long. If you happen to travel to Barcelona on weekends, you are in luck. Admission fee is waived on the first Sunday of the month. Moreover, the Museum Picasso is free to visit on Thursday afternoon, from 4 p.m.

Enjoy Magical Show at Fountain of Montjuïc

The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc (Font màgica de Montjuïc in Catalan) continues to enhance your travel experiences with the impeccable street architecture of Barcelona.

Built in less than one year, the fountain is nothing short of a masterpiece. It consists of a number of fountains and ponds adorned with colorful displays and accompanied by music and water acrobatics. The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc was first opened in 1929 and has been amusing the locals and visitors ever since.

Join Free Walking Tours

Get to know Barcelona through the eyes of the locals via free walking tours. These city excursions last from one to a few hours and let you see some of the highlights along with hidden gems of Barcelona. Meeting the locals, learning about the history of the city – you can’t ask for a better and more productive activity.

Tips at the end of the walking tours are not required. However, it’s a proper way to show your gratitude for this impactful Barcelona experience.

Travel Guide to Barcelona Food Scenes

Barcelona is a place of leisure and gastronomical delight. This diverse city has united tastes buds of many nations and cuisines. From exclusive restaurants to locals’ favorite eateries in the famous Boqueria market , Barcelona sets its mind on changing your travel and food preferences forever. Here is a guide to some of the top sit-down restaurants and casual diners in Barcelona.

El Quim de la Boqueria . Hidden in the Boqueria market, El Quim de la Boqueria invites you to try mouthwatering Catalan-style dishes that even the locals approve of.

Pinotxo Bar . Pinotxo Bar, El Quim de la Boqueria’s neighbor, is famous for its esmorzar de forquilla , a big Catalan-style breakfast.

Can Boneta . Can Boneta is all you need when looking for the best Catalan tapas. And just give a try to its signature pasta with bacon and mushrooms. It might be your best Barcelona travel experience ever.

Dos Palillos . This restaurant in the neighborhood of El Raval is on the expensive side of the dining experience in Barcelona. Nevertheless, its remarkable fusion of Japanese ingredients with Spanish interpretation and cooking style is worth a visit at least once.

For inexpensive local tapas in the Park Güell area, swing by El Mirador del Carmelo .

Veggie Garden , Arc Iris , and Armonia accommodate vegan and vegetarian travelers exploring the streets in the heart of Barcelona.

Neighborhood Food Tours . When in doubt what and where to eat in Barcelona, join a neighborhood food tour and check out some of the best, including hidden, eateries. With authentic, local dishes piling on your plate, you can’t ask for a better travel experience in Barcelona.

Travel Guide to Hotels in Barcelona

Type and price of accommodations in Barcelona vary based on the district. Barcelona is not a particularly budget-friendly city, but you can still travel here on a shoestring . On the other hand, luxurious and glamorous hotels of Barcelona treat you as a king or queen. Here is a quick guide to hotels in Barcelona if you need some suggestions.

Monument Hotel. A five-star hotel sits just outside Gràcia in downtown Barcelona, within a walking distance of some of the major landmarks of the city. Staying at this hotel, you can visit Plaça de Catalunya, La Rambla, Passeig de Gràcia, and Casa Batlló at ease, preferably by walking.

Hotel Arts Barcelona. Located in the neighborhood of La Barceloneta, the place is ideal for your first visit to Barcelona . The hotel boasts gorgeous views of both the city and the sea. The Hotel Arts Barcelona is rather pricey, but its amenities and close proximity to the beaches and some of Barcelona’s nightclubs justify a hefty price tag.

Hotel Aranea. This budget hotel is located within a walking distance of the majority of Barcelona’s landmarks. The place offers affordable prices, welcoming staff, and small rooms with great street views.

Travel to Barcelona: Helpful Tips

• Barcelona Card. If you travel to Barcelona for more than a day, get Barcelona Card . For 45 to 66 euros, you can enjoy unlimited public transport rides, including the airport train, free entry to Barcelona’s museums, and some other discounts and deals.
• Free Attractions on specific days. Most of the museums in Barcelona are free on the first Sunday of each month, making your travel experiences here even more enjoyable and affordable.
• Culture of Barcelona. Barcelona’s locals call themselves Catalans, never Spaniards. Although the city is a part of Spain, its residents are proud of their heritage and feel stronger connections to Catalonia. To be on the safe side and make friends with the locals, avoid mentioning complicated relationship between Catalonia and Spain altogether.
• Pickpocketing. Be aware of pickpocketing and wear your purse of bag in front of you. We didn’t experiences any issues with it but heard about many people who did.

And there you have it. Here is our ultimate Barcelona travel guide with the the best places to explore, stay, and eat.

TIP : If you are looking for more information about Barcelona, please check out the following guides.

• Guide: Top 10 Things to Do in Barcelona on Your First Visit
• Culture and lifestyle: Barcelonians Know It Best: 6 Things to Pick up in Barcelona
• Make tapas at home: Travel Inspired Recipes: Patatas Bravas

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to pin it for later and share it with your friends.

You may also enjoy:

How to spend 4 day on maui (spring itinerary), 9 places not to miss in vancouver, canada, during your first visit, how to visit wicklow mountains national park, off the beaten path: top 13 hidden gems in san diego, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Get in touch

Sign up for newsletter.

Join Roads and Destinations' mailing list and get new blog updates, upcoming events, and exclusive travel resourses.

11 Essential Apps for Travellers Visiting Barcelona in 2023

Barcelona, what a radiant tapestry of art and history it is! And boy, can it be overwhelming, right? But don't sweat. I have the digital toolkit that will turn you from tourist to local in no time. Here are my absolute go-to apps - the real deal in 2023 - that help me nail every Barcelona visit. Whether navigating the extensive metro system, hunting down hidden gems, or grabbing those last-minute tickets to a fiery flamenco show, these apps are your Barcelona lifeline.

Our 11 Best Apps for Barcelona in 2023

In no particular order...

2. Citymapper

3. barcelona metro, 5. itranslate, 6. google lens, 7. urbs travel app, 8. medieval bcn.

Keep reading for more info on these top Bracelona apps.

Navigating Barcelona with Ease

Navigating an unfamiliar city can be daunting, but fear not! Moving around Barcelona will be a breeze with the right apps on your mobile device. Here are three awesome apps we use to traverse the city like a local.

So forget about getting lost in translation or being late for that delicious paella reservation; these Barcelona transport apps will be your trusted sidekicks throughout your Barcelona adventure.

The TMB App is your go-to for mastering Barcelona’s public transport system. Developed by Turisme de Barcelona, this fantastic app offers bus and metro times, operating hours, maps, alerts, and promotions. With features like route planning, travel duration, wait times, and personalized services, this app ensures you have all the essential information at your fingertips.

Available on Android and iOS, the TMB App is a great alternative to Google Maps for navigating public transportation in Barcelona using your mobile phone. Plus, it provides push notifications and acoustic warnings when you’re about to arrive at your destination bus or metro stop.

With offline maps included, you’ll never miss a beat, even when you’re off the grid.

Download from Google Play or Apple App store .

Next up, meet Citymapper, your new best friend, for exploring Barcelona like a pro. This fantastic app provides accurate public transport information and route planning, integrating data from all urban means of transport. With timely notifications when you need to get off or switch lines, Citymapper is an essential tool for your Barcelona trip.

To use Citymapper, simply open the app, enter your destination, and voilà! You’ll be provided with the best route to get there, including the estimated arrival time and on-the-ground advice. Whether you’re visiting iconic landmarks like Plaça de Catalunya or the Sagrada Familia, Citymapper has got your back.

Last but not least, in our transportation trio, the Barcelona Metro app guides you through the city’s vast metro network like a true local. This handy app helps travellers navigate the metro system with an interactive map, route planner, and popular points of interest. With transport apps like this one, say goodbye to confusion and hello to smooth journeys around Barcelona.

For an even more immersive experience, check out Barcelona Metro Walks, an official audio guide that offers seven itineraries to discover the city through areas of proximity, combining bus, metro, and tram routes with walks. From exploring the Gothic Quarter to hopping on and off at famous landmarks, the Barcelona Metro app has got you covered.

Discovering Barcelona's Culinary Scene

Ready to tantalize your taste buds with Barcelona’s diverse culinary scene? With restaurant recommendations, discounts, and reviews at your fingertips, you’ll never run out of delicious dining options during your stay in the Catalan capital.

A must-have app for foodies visiting Barcelona is TheFork. This incredible app allows you to easily browse and book amazing dining experiences in restaurants, cafes, and eateries throughout the city. With location services pinpointing your position in Barcelona, you’ll have the nearest dining options available in no time.

TheFork app provides its own descriptions and millions of other foodies’ reviews of restaurants, along with mouthwatering photos of the food served. With so many delicious options at your fingertips, you’ll have a hard time deciding where to eat first!

Breaking down language barriers

Get ready to meet iTranslate and Google Lens. These are my two best friends when it comes to breaking language barriers. iTranslate is the perfect tool for smooth, stress-free communication with locals, while Google Lens acts as your personal translator, decoding written text and uncovering hidden histories with just a point of your camera. Trust me, these two apps will be your lifeline to Barcelona's vibrant local culture. Let's dive into how they work their magic.

Communication is key when travelling, and the iTranslate app ensures you’ll never be lost in translation. This amazing app provides translation and dictionary features, including conversation mode, to help you communicate with locals in Spanish and Catalan.

Whether asking for directions or trying to decipher a menu, iTranslate is your trusted language companion throughout your Barcelona journey. With this app in your arsenal, you’ll feel more confident and connected to the vibrant local culture.

Explore Barcelona with ease using Google Lens, your visual translator and tour guide in one. Point your camera at signs, menus, or products, and Google Lens instantly translates text from Spanish or Catalan. Uncover the history behind landmarks, decipher local dishes, or navigate unfamiliar streets with just a tap. Google Lens takes the guesswork out of travel, immersing you directly in Barcelona's vibrant culture.

Exploring Barcelona's Rich Culture and History

In this section, we're diving into two of my favorite apps that make uncovering Barcelona's secrets a breeze. First, we'll check out the Urbs Travel App, a personal tour guide right in your pocket that shows you the best of Barcelona, from hidden gems to local favorites. Then, we'll travel back in time with the Medieval BCN app, a must-have for exploring the city's rich architectural heritage.

Urbs Travel App is a game-changer for travellers seeking a unique and memorable trip to Barcelona. This app provides personalized travel suggestions based on your preferences and location, allowing you to explore the city like never before. From hidden gems to local favourites, Urbs Travel App will help you create a one-of-a-kind Barcelona itinerary .

The app offers audio descriptions, bespoke routes, and essential travel knowledge for clients, with smart city guides written by cultural experts and performed by professional storytellers. With custom walking tours and ticket booking integration, Urbs Travel App is essential for anyone visiting Barcelona.

Step back in time with the Medieval Barcelona app, an official audio guide that explores the city’s Romanesque and Gothic architecture from its flourishing period as an important commercial center. This app provides a fascinating glimpse into Barcelona's past, from the breathtaking Gothic Quarter to the awe-inspiring city walls.

With detailed audio guides and informative content, Medieval Barcelona is your key to unlocking the city’s rich history. Immerse yourself in the stories and secrets of Barcelona’s storied past as you wander its ancient streets.

Download from Apple App store .

Planning Activities and Events

If you want to join local activities, find cultural events, or book tours in Barcelona, the Meetup, Fever, and GetYourGuide apps have you covered. Connect with locals, uncover hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories in the Catalan capital.

Meetup is a fantastic app that helps you find and join local activities and events, connecting you with like-minded individuals and making your trip more engaging and authentic. From language exchanges to hiking groups, there’s a meetup for any interest you can imagine.

By participating in local activities and meeting new people, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Barcelona’s culture and make lasting connections. So why not step out of your comfort zone and dive into the vibrant local scene with Meetup?

Fever is your ultimate guide to finding exciting plans in Barcelona, including leisure, cultural events, restaurants, and adventure sports. With Fever, you’ll never run out of things to do or places to explore during your stay in the city.

Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an adrenaline junkie, Fever has something for everyone. Discover the best of Barcelona and create a trip that’s uniquely yours with this versatile app.

Say goodbye to long lines at cultural landmarks with Tiqets, the app that opens doors to culture. With instant ticket delivery and Skip the Line options, you'll never miss out on your dream Barcelona destinations.

The app is your trusted guide, offering a comprehensive list of Barcelona's must-see attractions and hidden gems. From planning your itinerary to flexible booking options, Tiqets ensures your Barcelona trip is hassle-free and enriching. With Tiqets in your pocket, you'll feel more prepared and connected to the vibrant culture of Barcelona​.

Download Tiqets

In conclusion, exploring and enjoying Barcelona has never been easier, thanks to these amazing apps. From navigating public transport to discovering local cuisine and immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture and history to planning exciting activities and events, these apps have got you covered. So pack your bags, download these apps, and get ready for an unforgettable Barcelona adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best app to meet people in barcelona.

Meetup is the perfect app for you if you’re looking to meet people in Barcelona! With a wide range of activities, from salsa lessons to language exchange events, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with so many people around the world using Meetup, it’s easy to connect with like-minded folks and make some new friends!

What transportation app to use in Barcelona?

Experience Barcelona hassle-free with the official TMB App! Enjoy easy access to the Metro, buses, and trams in Barcelona, helping you plan your journey and enjoy your time in this stunning city.

What is the best way to explore Barcelona?

Exploring Barcelona is easy and enjoyable with its efficient public transportation system – from the metro to trams, buses, and FGC trains. Embrace the city’s beauty and discover new cultures in an eco-friendly way! Public transportation in Barcelona is a great way to explore the city and its culture. It is efficient, eco-friendly, and allows you to discover new places and cultures by taking the metro, tram, or bus. Use Urbs Travel App to help you create a personalised itinerary if places of interest to you.

What is the best walking app for Barcelona?

If you plan to explore Barcelona on foot, the Urbs Travel App is an excellent choice! This app offers GPS-guided routes personalized to you and provides enriching audio descriptions about various points of interest, written by local experts and narrated by professional voice-over artists. Simply put on your headphones and let Urbs guide you through Barcelona's streets like a local, or map out your perfect city route from scratch.

What are the best apps for navigating public transport in Barcelona?

Exploring Barcelona’s public transportation network is a breeze with the TMB App, Citymapper, and Barcelona Metro - the best apps to get around! These apps make it easy to plan your route, check schedules, and purchase tickets. They also provide helpful information about the city’s attractions and points of interest.

Related Posts

A Short History of The City of Barcelona (& 68 Top Attractions)

13 Essential Apps for Travellers Visiting London in 2023

11 Essential Apps for Travellers Visiting Paris in 2023

There may be affiliate links on this page! That just means if you click on a link, find a ticket you like and buy it, we might make some cash. Don’t worry, you won’t pay any extra – sometimes you might even get a tasty discount. It’s a win for us and a win for you too!

Download the app and start exploring

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Urbs app today and bring your travel dreams to life.

Visit Barcelona

Professionals

• Barcelona Convention Bureau

VisitBarcelona official visitor guide

• Accessible tourism

Getting around the city

Mobility in Barcelona and its metropolitan area is effortless, thanks to the sustainable public transport network that makes getting around Barcelona a breeze. The best way to travel around Barcelona is by utilizing the efficient metro, trams, buses, and the Catalan government's city and suburban rail service (FGC), all prioritizing clean energy. Additionally, public transport in Barcelona includes a public bike hire scheme with over 200 km of bike lanes, ensuring an eco-friendly experience. How to get around Barcelona is further simplified by the fleet of taxis, featuring hybrid, electric, and natural gas vehicles. Environmentally friendly electric vehicles are also available for hire, ensuring you find the means of transport that best suits your needs.

Metro, FGC and Tram

Public transport such as the metro, tram and FGC are the quickest, simplest, most convenient and most sustainable way of getting around Barcelona. You can choose from the different ticket types and travel cards.

A fleet of over 1,000 fully adapted buses serve all areas of Barcelona. The integrated fare system means that travel cards can be used on the metro, trams, FGC and Renfe trains (zone 1)

Getting around by bike

Bicycles are a healthy, clean and silent way of getting around the city. Barcelona has an extensive and well-laid out network of cycle lanes and all kinds of services that make it easy to get around by bike. You can cycle through Barcelona's open spaces and parks.

Getting around by taxi

There are more than 10,000 taxis in the city which can be easily identified by their yellow and black livery. There are more than 300 bus stops in Barcelona and its metropolitan area providing convenient access to this service. A green light on the taxi roof indicates its availability.

Getting around with an electric vehicle

E-mobility brings energy-saving, environmentally friendly and financial advantages. It is efficient, allows the inclusion of renewable energies, doesn't generate any emissions, and reduces noise pollution... Come and explore Barcelona with a rented e-vehicle.

Park your car

Forget about your car and park it in one of our safe and convenient car parks. Public transport is the best, and most sustainable, way to get around Barcelona.

ZBE Rondes de Barcelona

From 1st January 2020 vehicles that are not registered with the Spanish traffic authority (DGT) will not be permitted to drive in the low-emission zones (ZBE). Find out here if you meet the ZBE emissions standards.

Getting around on unique means of transport

Barcelona has unique means of transport that will enable you to get around the city in a fun way on land, sea and in the air. You can discover the city on the Barcelona Bus Turístic, sail along the seafront on one of the Golondrinas pleasure boats, and ride up to the castle on the Montjuïc cable car.

You may be also interested

• Barcelona Card

Hola Barcelona Travel Card, Transport card

Barcelona by GoCar

Casa Amatller

Fundació Joan Miró (Joan Miró Museum)

Easy Montserrat

Articket Barcelona

Barcelona Card Family

Trip to PortAventura Park and Ferrari Land

Barcelona Bus Turístic Hop on Hop off

• VisitBarcelona Tickets
• Affiliate VisitBarcelona Tickets
• Barcelona Access
• Turisme de Barcelona Professional
• Barcelona Premium
• Barcelona Shopping City
• Barcelona Weddings

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

How to spend a day in Barcelona, from artisan shops to tapas bars

The capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is hardly a city you can experience in one day, but this action-packed itinerary provides an introduction to the variety of activities on offer — a taster that will keep you coming back for more.

When it comes to the visitor experience, Barcelona runs the full gamut. This Spanish icon has some of the country’s most important cultural centres and fabled architecture; access to hilltop views and beaches alike; and a culinary scene that straddles the inventive and the traditional. Here’s an itinerary for a day that takes in a bit of it all — from an early-morning hike to a visit to an art museum, and from sunset by the Mediterranean to a mandatory tapas dinner.

8am: Morning hike up Mount Tibidabo

On the ungroomed slopes of the nearby Pyrenees, skiers talk of earning their turns; in Barcelona the same might be true of cocktails. Blow the cobwebs off the previous night’s indulgence, and set yourself up for another day of the same, with an invigorating, hour-long hike along the trails threaded through the foothills of Mount Tibidabo, which overlooks the city. Your target is the summit church, set, incongruously, amid a retro funfair. Depart on the trail that starts at the Tibidabo Funicular base station, then ride the train back to your starting point.

10am: A mooch in the art museum

With its hillside perch on the flanks of Montjuïc hill, grand sweep of steps, and domes and towers inspired by St Peter’s in the Vatican and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya isn’t exactly a model of restraint. That exuberance extends to a collection of (mostly Catalan) art as dazzling as an Iberian sunset. Fortify yourself with a tallat (espresso with a splash of steamed milk) in the cafe tucked in one corner of its vast Sala Oval banqueting space.

12.30pm: Drinks and a bite by the pool

So galvanising was the 1992 Olympics for the city, you’ll still hear it spoken of fondly to this day. The seminal images of the games were divers twisting and piking high above the skyline from the purpose-built facilities on Montjuïc . The site has morphed into an informal open-air bar with a loyal local following. Grab a sangria or Aperol spritz, order a walnut and goat’s cheese salad or jamón ibérico sandwich and take your place in the banked seats from which the crowds once cheered. The two pools below open during the summer.

3pm: Dive into the Gothic Quarter

Fanning out from the 13th-century Catedral de Barcelona and corralled by the thoroughfares of La Rambla and Via Laietana, the Barri Gòtic is an endlessly browsable maze of artisan shops, craft boutiques and indie clothing stores. Narrow lanes and high footfall rule out anything more rushed than museum pace. Search out Sombrerería Obach , a century-old, family-run hat shop specialising in fedoras and traditional Catalan barretinas; and, of 1941 vintage, Granja Dulcinea chocolate shop.

4pm: Coffee in Plaça Neri

If the frenzy gets too much, retreat to Plaça de Sant Felip Neri. It’s an atmospheric little square (more of a trapezoid, in fact), with a central fountain sheltered by a towering rosewood, and an eponymous church whose facade is pockmarked by blast damage from the Fascist bombing raids of the 1930s. Dip into the thick-stoned cool of the Hotel Neri , order a coffee and ask to take it on the compact roof terrace among the terracotta pots and banana plants.

5pm: Hit the beach

It may not feel like it when you’re deep in the Gothic Quarter but one of Europe’s great urban seafronts is just a gargoyle’s spit away. Early evening it’s at its best, as the sun retreats behind Montjuïc and beachgoers disperse. It’s a stroll of a little over a mile along the expansive promenade from the sail-shaped W Hotel at one end to Frank Gehry’s 115ft-high, iridescent Peix (fish) sculpture at the other. The route traces the full expanse of Playa de la Barceloneta, which is studded with wood-framed chiringuito beach bars.

7pm: Tapas at Quimet & Quimet

Behind triple-height crimson doors on a quiet lane a short walk from the centre of the lively neighbourhood of Poble-sec, this is the city’s most sought-after tapas bar. It’s standing-room only in a high-ceilinged room decoratd wall-to-wall with wine and vermouth bottles. The faux bickering between sixth-generation brother and sister Quimet and Neus is a delight, as are the heaped montaditos (open sandwiches); salmon, yoghurt and honey is the pick.

9.30pm: Cocktails at the Nobu

Nul points for nominative inspiration, but Rooftop — set on the 24th floor of the Nobu Hotel in western Eixample — can lay claim to being the city’s loftiest bar. It’s possibly its coolest, too, with soft-lit, low-slung tables, four-poster day-beds and panoramic views stretching from mountain to Med. A signature jalapeño and ginger martini is the best way to round off your day. Check in to one of the hotel’s 259 elegant rooms and suites, and you can return the following morning for a wallow in that inviting pool.

FOURTH OF JULY SPECIAL

Get National Geographic magazine for $10 off

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• RESTAURANTS
• CULTURAL TOURISM

You May Also Like

A food guide to Barcelona, from historic markets to atmospheric vermouth bars

A guide to cocktail hour in Barcelona, where the best bars want to remain hidden

How to spend a day in Melbourne, from hip cafes to cocktails at a floating bar

How to spend a day in Valletta, Malta's baroque, harbourside city

How to spend a day tram-hopping to Edinburgh's lively port district of Leith

• Environment

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Interactive Graphic
• Paid Content
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Barcelona Tours & Vacations

It’s a tight race, but Barcelona might just be  Spain’s  best city. Its football team aside, the Catalan seaside city is lauded for its unique modern architecture like La Sagrada Familia Basilica, its food options so good that everywhere closes for two hours for lunch, its Gothic Quarter and green spaces like Park Guell that are made for walking, its art galleries, live music and nightlife. Its delights make it hard to leave, but it’s perfectly positioned for an exploration of northern Spain to San Sebastian and beyond, or to loop through Western Europe, legendary cities of Paris, Berlin, and on to Italy.  

Tours to Barcelona

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Tours from Barcelona

Barcelona tour reviews.

Filter by rating

Barcelona to Rome

North Spain Discovery

Best of Spain

Articles of Barcelona

Fool or genius? Getting to know Gaudi in Barcelona

What to do in Barcelona, from must-dos to lesser-known gems

Spain in one week: the ultimate guide

Prepare to salivate: Top 10 restaurants in Barcelona

Mi gusto: A guide to Barcelona’s La Boqueria

Introducing Europe’s newest independent countries?

Watch CBS News

Hurricane Beryl maps show path and landfall forecast

By Cara Tabachnick , Emily Mae Czachor

Updated on: July 4, 2024 / 2:23 PM EDT / CBS News

Hurricane Beryl  was moving toward Mexico on Thursday after blowing past the Cayman Islands and Jamaica. It made landfall Monday on the island of Carriacou in Grenada while tearing through the Caribbean , strengthening at times to a Category 5 storm — the  strongest rating .

What is the projected path of Hurricane Beryl?

The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said the center of Beryl was moving away from the Cayman Islands on Thursday and was expected to hit Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula early Friday. Beryl was expected to emerge in the Gulf of Mexico on Friday night. "Weakening is forecast during the next day or two, though Beryl is forecast to remain a hurricane until it makes landfall on the Yucatan Peninsula," the hurricane center said.

A hurricane is considered major when it's a Category 3 or higher, with winds of at least 111 mph. As of Thursday afternoon, Beryl was a Category 2 with maximum sustained winds of 110 mph, the hurricane center said.

Beryl was some 135 miles west of Grand Cayman island and 275 miles east-southeast of Tulum, Mexico. It was moving west-northwest at 18 mph, according to the center.

Will Hurricane Beryl hit Texas?

CBS affiliate KHOU-TV reported  that whether Beryl  crashes into Texas depends on how much strength it loses as it goes over land as well as conditions in the Gulf of Mexico in the coming days. One key factor will be how wind shear affects Beryl.

"The flow of the wind pattern as it enters the Gulf is going to be more hostile," KHOU-TV meteorologist Kim Castro said. "The atmospheric conditions are going to start ripping it apart."

Another factor will be an area of high pressure in Texas that has been acting as a barrier but is forecast to move east later this week.

"Depending on where Beryl is situated, it could track towards Tampico (Mexico), the area where these tropical storms have tracked so far this season," Castro said. "…However, if this tracks a little further to the north, there would be nothing to kind of nudge it south, so there is a little exposure to the Texas coastline."

The hurricane center urged people in southern Texas to monitor Beryl's progress.

A hurricane warning was in effect for parts of the Yucatan's east coast.

Where is Hurricane Beryl bringing rain and flooding?

Jamaica experienced torrential rainfall and life-threatening flash flooding Wednesday. 

The hurricane center said Thursday the Caymans were forecast to get 4 to 6 inches of rain from Beryl. "Over the Yucatan Peninsula, Beryl is expected to produce rainfall totals of 4 to 6 inches, with localized amounts of 10 inches, later today into Friday. Scattered instances of flash flooding are anticipated," the center continued.

Beryl became the  first hurricane  of the 2024  Atlantic hurricane season  on Saturday and rapidly strengthened. It first reached Category 4 on Sunday, wavering back to Category 3 before returning to Category 4 on Monday and then becoming a Category 5 later Monday night. It is the first major hurricane east of the Lesser Antilles on record for June, according to Philip Klotzbach, Colorado State University hurricane researcher.

Brian McNoldy, a tropical meteorology researcher for the University of Miami, told The Associated Press warm waters are fueling Beryl, with ocean heat content in the deep Atlantic the highest on record for this time of year.

Beryl has also set records  as the first June hurricane ever to hit Category 4, the farthest east a storm has ever hit Category 4, and the first storm before September to go from tropical depression to major hurricane in under 48 hours, CBS News weather producer David Parkinson reported.

Beryl was also the earliest Category 5 hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic basin and was only the second Category 5 storm recorded in July since 2005, according to the hurricane center.

Brian Dakss, Alex Sundby and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Cara Tabachnick is a news editor at CBSNews.com. Cara began her career on the crime beat at Newsday. She has written for Marie Claire, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal. She reports on justice and human rights issues. Contact her at [email protected]

More from CBS News

Hurricane Beryl is a historic storm. Here's why.

Beryl leaves trail of devastation in Caribbean islands: "The situation is grim"

Hurricane Beryl damages or destroys 90% of homes on one island, leader says

How to protect your home from a hurricane

• extreme weather

Here Is the Path ‘Dangerous’ Hurricane Beryl Is Expected to Take

H urricane Beryl has left at least 10 people dead across the Caribbean islands and that number is expected to rise as telecommunication channels are restored, according to Reuters . The storm will pass through the Cayman Islands on Thursday, where it is expected to bring “strong winds, dangerous storm surge, and damaging waves” according to the National Hurricane Center . It is expected to reach the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico early Friday. 

The hurricane has been downgraded to a Category 3, meaning that its wind speeds have slowed since late Monday, when it became the earliest storm to develop into a Category 5 hurricane at that point in the season. But even at Category 3, the storm is strong enough to severely damage homes, snap trees, and disrupt electricity and water supplies for days or even weeks. 

On Wednesday, the storm pummeled the Southern coast of Jamaica, where it l eft thousands of people without electricity . The city of Kingston  recorded wind speeds of nearly 50 mph for 12 hours straight between 1 p.m. local time on Wednesday and 1 a.m. local time on Thursday . 

Beryl set records when it developed into a Category 5 hurricane earlier in the week. It’s high wind speeds are indicative of an exceptionally aggressive start to the Atlantic hurricane season this year, which usually peaks between the months of August and October. 

The hurricane continues to cause devastation  as it plows through the Caribbean. “In half an hour, Carriacou was flattened,” Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell said on Monday , as Beryl sustained winds of 150 m.p.h. Mitchell visited Carriacou and Petite Martinique in the aftermath of the hurricane’s “total” destruction, which has damaged or destroyed an estimated 98% of the Carriacou’s buildings , including its main health facility and airport. 

More Must-Reads from TIME

• Welcome to the Noah Lyles Olympics
• Melinda French Gates Is Going It Alone
• What to Do if You Can’t Afford Your Medications
• How to Buy Groceries Without Breaking the Bank
• Sienna Miller Is the Reason to Watch  Horizon
• Why So Many Bitcoin Mining Companies Are Pivoting to AI
• The 15 Best Movies to Watch on a Plane
• Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Write to Armani Syed at [email protected]

• a. Send us an email
• b. Anonymous form
• Buyer's Guide
• Upcoming Products
• Tips / Contact Us
• Podcast Instagram Facebook Twitter Mastodon YouTube Notifications RSS Newsletter

International Roaming Outage Affecting Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile Customers [Updated]

There appears to be an ongoing outage with international roaming across multiple cellular networks, with Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile customers abroad complaining about the issue on social networks and cellular community forums .

Based on feedback from customers that have managed to contact support, the providers are aware of the issue with international roaming and are actively working on resolving it, although there have been reports that this could take several hours. We'll update this article as soon as we learn more.

Does anyone else have @Verizon and overseas?? Everyone I’m with phone just fully stopped working… anyone else?? — Patrick Schwarzenegger (@PSchwarzenegger) June 27, 2024

Update 2: Bloomberg reports that a Verizon customer service representative who was contacted from the UK on Thursday said that it's an ongoing issue that engineers are working to address.

Update 3: The multi-network outage is related to issues at international connection partner Syniverse , according to a person familiar with the situation. The company says the estimated time of restoration is 12 hours up to 24 hours.

Get weekly top MacRumors stories in your inbox.

Popular Stories

Apple Leak Confirms Four iPhone 16 Models With Same A18 Chip

iPhone 16 Pro Models to Adopt 'M14' Advanced Samsung OLED Panels for Improved Brightness and Lifespan

MacBook Owners With Faulty Butterfly Keyboards to Get Payouts Soon

Apple Reclassifies iPhone X, HomePod, and Original AirPods as 'Vintage'

Some Apple Intelligence Features Likely to Require Paid Subscription

Top rated comments.

I'm always curious with issues like this, do people seriously think that a vendor is just going to sit around and not work on the problem? While their networks aren't as robust as they like us to think, they are going to resolve these issues if nothing else to avoid government hassling them for causing an outage.

This screwed me so bad yesterday in Mexico City. Carrier left us out to dry. I’m leaving Verizon over this. What I went through yesterday when this randomly happened in a random neighborhood of CDMX I will never forgive this company for.

My Apple Pay also didn’t work in Germany earlier. Thankfully I had cash on me. Is the world ending?

Next Article

Our comprehensive guide highlighting every major new addition in iOS 17, plus how-tos that walk you through using the new features.

Apple News+ improvements, cross-platform tracker alerts, website app downloads for the EU, and more.

Get the most out your iPhone 15 with our complete guide to all the new features.

A deep dive into new features in macOS Sonoma, big and small.

Updates to Mail, Photos, Messages, and more, with Apple Intelligence features throughout.

iPhone Mirroring, Safari improvements, new Passwords app, and Apple Intelligence features throughout.

Apple Intelligence features, Smart Script handwriting refinement, Calculator app, and more.

New hand gestures, rearrange apps in Home View, larger Mac Virtual Display, and more.

Other Stories

3 hours ago by Juli Clover

3 days ago by Tim Hardwick

1 week ago by Tim Hardwick

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.