BARCELONA. A city full of life! This city has so much culture and plenty to do. I’ve listed a few of my favorite attractions that you must see while visiting Barcelona.
What to Expect: I was constantly surrounded by dancers and performers on the streets. Once I saw a group of about 20 people climbing onto each other creating a 20 feet tower!
Top Attractions
Boqueria Market
Open Monday through Saturday from 8am-8:30pm. The Boqueria is a famous market consisting of different stalls selling meat & cheese, fresh fruit, candy & nuts, hot meals and other foods! The prices are low where you can find a cup of fresh juice for 1 Euro and candy for 1 Euro per pound. Pop in for a quick visit or spend over an hour browsing through the stalls.
Park Güell
If you are traveling to this heavily cultured city, you cannot go without knowing who Antoni Gaudí is! He is one of the most famous architects in Catalan culture and world architecture. Some of Gaudí well known masterpieces are in Park Güell. You can find people relaxing, reading or playing guitar around the park. Most of the park is free to visit but you can purchase a ticket for a better view of the art and which overlooks the city. Cost is $8.
La Sagrada Familia
Barcelona is home to the beautiful, Sagrada Familia. Another piece of works by Antoni Gaudí. The construction on this Roman Catholic Church has been unfinished for hundreds of years. Only 70% of it has been finished! The architecture inside and out is incredibly beautiful and intricate. You can purchase a basic ticket or have a guided tour. Tickets start at 15 Euros.
Las Ramblas
Located in the center of Barcelona is Las Ramblas, a lively street full of shops, outdoor markets, restaurants and street performers. It is one of Barcelona’s largest tourist attractions so expect it to be packed.
La Barceloneta Beach
Who doesn’t love a beach? Along the beach are a ton of restaurants to choose from if you get hungry.
Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter has a medieval gothic feel and is one of the oldest districts in Barcelona. The alleyways are windy and narrow. Here you can find flower stalls, street food vendors, bars and clubs, boutiques, and a beautiful cathedral.
Magic Fountain
Barcelona’s magical fountain puts on a show with vibrant colors, motions, sounds, lights and water acrobatics. Check with hostel reception as the hours vary based on season but it’s usually starts in the evenings. The best part is that it’s free!
Pick Pocketing:
I know too many people who have gotten their phone or wallet stolen here, including myself. I also know people who have visited and haven’t been pick pocketed. It’s all about being cautious. Crowded area are high risk because a pick pocketer can brush up against you without you thinking anything of it. They are pros at what they do and will use tactics to distract you while they or a partner will steal from you. Be mindful of your surroundings. I bring a small purse with me that zips and I hold in front of me at all times.
Tipping:
Taxis- Round to the nearest dollar.
Restaurants- In classier restaurants tip at least 10%. Not expected in cafés.
Bars- No tipping.
Outlets:
The standard voltage is 230v, where in the US is 120v. A universal travel adaptor power converter is required to avoid shorting your appliances.
Language: Catalan and Spanish are the two main languages. Some can speak English.
Currency: Euros
