City Trip to Barcelona - Barcelona Tips By Locals

Every year, millions of tourists from all over the world visit Barcelona. But what should you see and do during your city trip? What do you need to know about the city? And how can you truly get a taste of local life? In this article, we’ll answer these questions and help you prepare for an unforgettable city trip to Barcelona.

Whether it’s the fantastic location by the Mediterranean, the beach, the culinary delights, the historic center, or the avant-garde architecture and stunning Catalan modernism, Barcelona has something for everyone. The vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and incredible shopping opportunities make it a must-visit destination. We, too, fell for the charms of this Catalan capital and have been living here for many years now. Annebeth moved here in 2002 and Ramiro in 2004. Our daughter Olivia was born in Barcelona in 2015.

Also read: Top 20 – Things to do in Barcelona in 2025

Where to stay in Barcelona?

Choosing the right neighborhood and accommodation is key to making the most of our visit to Barcelona. Areas like the Gothic Quarter, El Born, and Eixample offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and convenience, while neighborhoods like Gràcia and Poblenou provide a more relaxed, local atmosphere.

We can choose from a variety of accommodations, including hotels with excellent amenities or apartments for a more spacious, local experience. Hotel prices generally range from €150 to €200 per night, while apartments cost between €90 and €150. By considering location, budget, and personal preferences, we can find the ideal place to stay and fully enjoy our Barcelona adventure.

What to do in Barcelona?

When we visit Barcelona, we want to see the main sights, enjoy the beach, indulge in great food, and explore exciting activities. Our top 10 lists below can help you plan your days. If you’re looking for hidden gems or have already visited the city’s highlights, we recommend checking out our list of the best hidden gems and unique activities.

The biggest highlights in Barcelona?

We don’t want to return home only to realize you’ve missed the most iconic sights. Here are Barcelona’s must-sees:

Top 10 activities in Barcelona

Barcelona is bursting with activities. Whether you prefer an active or cultural experience, here are 10 popular activities to consider:

Bike tour
Hop on Hop off bus
Walking tour in the old city
Shopping
Eating tapas
Rent a bike
Boat trip
Climb to the bunkers
Wine tour
Concert in Palau de la Música

Visiting with teenagers? Check out what to do with teens in Barcelona

What you need to know about Barcelona

Location

Barcelona is situated in the northeastern part of Spain, along the stunning Mediterranean coastline. It lies about 120 kilometers south of the French border, making it easily accessible for those exploring southern Europe. The city’s prime location not only gives it a mild Mediterranean climate but also makes it a perfect base for day trips to nearby coastal towns, the Pyrenees mountains, or even southern France.

Population

With a population of around 1.6 million people, Barcelona is Spain’s second-largest city, after Madrid. Including its suburbs, the metropolitan area is home to over 5 million residents. This diverse population combines locals with expatriates and international students, giving Barcelona its unique, cosmopolitan vibe. It’s a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, reflected in both the architecture and the people.

Weather in Barcelona

Barcelona boasts pleasant weather year-round, with mild winters and warm, sunny summers. Spring and autumn are particularly enjoyable for sightseeing, as temperatures range between 20-25°C (68-77°F). While rain is infrequent, it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before packing. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes and sun protection, especially if we’re visiting in the warmer months.

Language

Barcelona is bilingual, with both Spanish and Catalan being widely spoken. Catalan is the native language of Catalonia and is prominently used in schools, official institutions, and street signs. While Catalan reflects the region’s strong cultural identity, Spanish remains universal and sufficient for most interactions. If we’re interested in immersing ourselves further, learning a few Catalan phrases can be a fun and rewarding experience!

Prices

Barcelona offers a mix of budget-friendly and high-end options, depending on our preferences. Accommodation and major attractions like the Sagrada Familia or Park Güell can be on the pricier side, but dining out and enjoying local food is often more affordable than in other major European cities. To save money, we recommend purchasing a discount card for public transport or sightseeing, which can make our trip both easier and cheaper.

Dining times

In Barcelona, dining times follow a relaxed Mediterranean rhythm. Lunch, often the main meal of the day, typically takes place between 1:30 and 4:00 pm and often includes a three-course menu del día (menu of the day) at many restaurants. Dinner begins late, around 9:00 pm, or even later on weekends. Some restaurants only open during these hours, but many offer continuous service, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

Safety

Barcelona is a generally safe city, but like any major urban area, it has its challenges. Pickpocketing is common in busy tourist areas like La Rambla, public transport, and crowded attractions. We should always keep an eye on our belongings, especially phones, wallets, and bags. Beyond that, the city feels welcoming and secure, even for solo travelers or families. Sticking to well-lit, populated areas at night is always a good practice.

Flying to Barcelona

Barcelona is easily accessible by air, with its large international airport El Prat-Josep Tarradellas. You can also consider flying into nearby airports such as Girona or Reus for cheaper options. Alternatively, Barcelona is reachable by car, bus, or train.

Instead of flying, you can also reach Barcelona by car, bus or train.

History of Barcelona

Legend has it that Barcelona was founded by Hercules or the Carthaginian Hamilcar Barca. Over centuries, the city has been influenced by the Romans, Visigoths, Moors, and more. By the 14th century, it was a major trading hub in Europe. Barcelona’s history is marked by cultural growth, political shifts, and periods of hardship, such as the Spanish Civil War and Franco’s oppressive regime.

The 1992 Summer Olympics marked a turning point for Barcelona, revitalizing the city and placing it firmly on the world map as a top tourist destination. Today, tourism and culture thrive alongside Barcelona’s rich history.

Barcelona nowadays

Today, Barcelona is a cosmopolitan metropolis, attracting talent and visitors from across the globe. With its thriving financial and cultural scene, a bustling port, and excellent infrastructure, it remains one of Spain’s most vibrant cities. Each year, millions of visitors come to explore Gaudí’s masterpieces, the Picasso Museum, and, of course, to cheer for FC Barcelona.

Whether we’re here for a city trip, a beach holiday, or both, Barcelona offers endless opportunities to explore, discover, and enjoy. Even after years of living here, we still find something new to love about this incredible city.

Also read our article on the Best time to visit Barcelona and on public holidays in Barcelona.