Last updated: November 2017
Your holiday in Barcelona should be a time to unwind and take a break from any stress that has accumulated during your everyday life. All too often, however, holidays aren’t quite as relaxing as we hoped they would be. After all, you still need to handle the practical logistics of getting from one place to another, and deciding things like what to do and where to eat every day, in an unfamiliar location and foreign language. So, we’ve compiled some useful Barcelona tips for savvy visitors which will help you to make the most of your stay – and to make it your most relaxing holiday in Barcelona yet!
1. Buy your Barcelona souvenirs online
Finally, there’s an alternative to trailing round the shops looking for little Barcelona souvenirs to bring back home to your nearest and dearest. Buycelona is an online shop where you’ll find a good selection of unique gifts which are made in Barcelona.
The gourmet selection includes a make-your-own paella kit, with a paella pan and full instructions. They have typical cold cuts and salamis, such as chorizo and Bellota ham, as well as biscuits and other confectionery. Gifts for kids, notebooks and handmade accessories are also available. Aside from the convenience of ordering online, Buycelona will either deliver to your Barcelona apartment, or directly to your destination back home. No need to worry about that baggage allowance then! www.buycelona.com
2. Beat the queues at Park Güell
Most of Barcelona’s main attractions are also top of everyone else’s must-see list, and since this city has one of the largest amounts of visitors in Europe, that means a lot of people and big queues. Some venues, like Park Güell, have limited tickets available every day. Make sure you get to see Gaudí’s ornamental pavilion and iconic dragon statue by booking your ticket up to 3 months in advance at www.parkguell.cat. Even if you don’t make it into the ornamental area there’s still plenty to enjoy in the rest of the park, such as its spectacular views, talented musicians playing everything from Spanish guitar to steel drums or indie swing, and the carefully crafted caverns.
3. 3D tour guide and Magic Nights at the Casa Batlló
Gaudí’s Casa Batlló, located on the prestigious street Passeig de Gràcia, is a marvel to see from the outside and extremely beautiful inside too. A particularly innovative 3D audio guide was launched this summer, which gives a fascinating and unparalleled insight into the genius of the architect behind this construction, and uses the latest digital technology to present aspects of the Casa Batlló’s design and symbolism that might otherwise have gone unnoticed.
It is also spectacular to see lit it up by night, so don’t miss the exclusive Casa Batlló Magic Nights program which takes place every Wednesday to Saturday from 21:00. You can enjoy musical performances, a delicious buffet, and sparkling glass of cava in one of Barcelona’s most romantic venues. Book online to guarantee your reservation at www.casabatllo.es
4. Choose the right public transport card for Barcelona metro and bus
If you’re not familiar with the Barcelona metro and bus system, listen up! A one way ticket costs 2€, but you can get a T10 ticket which is valid for 10 trips and can be shared by several people. This costs 9.95€, and is a much better option if you’re in Barcelona for a few days.
Another option for those planning to travel around is the Hola Bcn travelcard which entitles you to unlimited trips for either 2 days (14.50€), 3 days (21.20€) or more day. However, if you’re staying in the centre you may prefer to discover Barcelona on foot as there is plenty within easy walking distance.
5. Enjoy your last day in Barcelona without your luggage
This innovative new service is a must for every traveller who wants to make the most of every last minute and arrive comfortably at the airport. No-Luggage can collect your bags and luggage from your hotel or apartment and bring it to the airport, keeping it safe in their deposit at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 of Barcelona airport until you arrive.
Reservations can be made directly online. The first piece of luggage is 10€, each additional piece is 3€. All luggage is insured for damage or loss up to 3000€. Check it out! www.no-luggage.com
Enjoying your stay in Barcelona is made even easier with these and countless other services that are especially designed to help travellers have a great trip!
Thanks Francesca for this tips and suggestions. These will be very useful for anybody visiting the beautiful city.