Traveling to Barcelona is an unforgettable experience. With its modernist architecture, Mediterranean beaches and vibrant nightlife, it’s no wonder it’s one of Europe’s favorite tourist destinations.
However, as with any trip, it’s easy to make mistakes that can ruin the experience. In this article we share the most common mistakes travelers make in Barcelona and give practical tips to avoid them.
Not researching Catalan culture
Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, an autonomous community with its own culture and language. Before your trip, learn about Catalan gastronomy, traditions and personality. This will help you understand and enjoy your visit. For example, typical dishes such as escalivada or pa amb tomàquet. Or expressions like bon profit (buen provecho).
Catalans speak both Catalan and Spanish, so don’t be afraid to communicate in Spanish. But learning a few basic words in Catalan will earn you extra points.
Leave the organization to the end
Being such a popular city, it is best to plan your trip ahead of time and book accommodation and important activities in advance.
Destinations such as the Sagrada Familia or Park Güell are often sold out. The same goes for the best hotels and apartments in high season.
So as soon as you know the dates, start looking where to stay and buy tickets for your favorite sites. Nowadays many reservations are flexible in case you need to change your plans.
Choosing the wrong accommodation area
Barcelona is very large and its neighborhoods have distinct personalities. Choosing the right place to stay will make your trip more comfortable and pleasant.
The ideal is to look for accommodation near public transportation, such as a metro station. This way you will be able to move easily to the points of interest.
At the same time, avoid neighborhoods known for crime, such as Collblanc or La Mina. Choose safer and more lively areas such as Gràcia, El Born or El Raval.
Do not use the free audio guides to enjoy every place of interest.
On websites like VozViajera.com you have plenty of audio guides that will delight your visit to Barcelona.
You can listen to brief, but entertaining and fun information and tips that will make you enjoy and learn more about Barcelona.
If you go with children, you can put access to these audio guides on their devices and you will see how the trip changes.
Not taking advantage of discounts on transportation
Although Barcelona is best enjoyed on foot, at some point you will use public transport for longer distances.
Buying a 10-trip pass (T-Casual) is much cheaper than paying for a single ticket each time. And you can’t share it among several people, so buy one per person.
When using the metro, bus or streetcar, validate your pass when entering each trip. If you don’t, you risk a fine.
Being careless with your personal belongings
Pickpockets are on the prowl in Barcelona, especially in tourist areas. Always keep your backpack or purse closed and facing forward when on public transport, in markets, museums, etc.
Also avoid back or side pockets that are easy to open. And be careful with your phone in terraces and restaurants.
Be cautious, but don’t get paranoid either. Use common sense and you’ll be fine.
Overpaying for food and drink
Eating and drinking in “touristy” restaurants can be very expensive. Instead, look for more authentic places or buy food in supermarkets like Mercadona.
For example, the same bottle of water can cost 1 euro in a supermarket and up to 3 euros! in a street stall. Big difference, isn’t it?
Also take advantage of offers such as menus of the day for 10-15 euros, an economical way to try the local gastronomy.
Limiting yourself to Barcelona
The city has a lot to offer, but it would be a mistake not to take the opportunity to visit nearby places. Destinations such as Sitges, Montserrat or Girona are only an hour away by train.
You can even visit the Costa Brava to enjoy its famous beaches.
Get out of the capital and discover unique places in the surroundings. Your trip will be even more complete.
The secret to having a great visit to Barcelona is to be well informed, plan ahead and use common sense.
Follow the tips in this article to avoid mishaps and unpleasant surprises. But don’t stress too much either.
Enjoy the experience to the fullest and let yourself be carried away by the free and adventurous spirit of this fascinating city. Have a good trip!
