barcelona

Ciao, barcelona

Impressive architecture and hip restaurants meet a sunny Spanish climate and beautiful beaches. This has transformed Barcelona, in just a few decades, from a rough port city into one of Europe's — if not the world's — premier destinations. Stroll along La Rambla and Passeig de Gràcia, admire Gaudí's masterpieces, visit the colourful Market of La Boqueria, lose yourself in the Gothic Quarter, bask in the sun at Barceloneta beach, and discover some of the city's vibrant late-night haunts while you're at it.

Informazioni sulla città

Informazioni essenziali sulla città

palms in sunny Barcelona

Best Time to Visit

Barcelona, the second-largest city in Spain, is the first tourist destination of the country, ahead of its rival Madrid. The city is particularly appreciated for its climate because it enjoys beautiful and sunny days eight months per year. It is popular with tourists from around the world during the two summer months because of its high temperatures, which can reach up to 37°C. The many nearby beaches are perfect for a swim after a long day of sightseeing but expect a busy crowd. Spring and autumn are, therefore, the best time to visit Barcelona. During these seasons, you can enjoy the sun and the beautiful and shining days away from the holidaymakers of July and August. Besides, the prices are more affordable, so it is easier to find a place to eat and sleep. It is also possible to explore the Catalan capital during the winter because the climate is cool, but the temperatures are still mild. You will not find negative temperatures or frosts at this time of the year.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Barcelona (FAQs)

Is Barcelona a safe city? Yes. Although Barcelona is a big city – the second-largest in Spain and the most visited city in the country – it is still considered a fairly safe place for tourists. However, as with most popular tourist destinations, such as Paris, pickpockets and bag thieves are the biggest concerns here. So be careful when walking around and taking pictures near major tourist attractions, such as La Rambla, Plaça Catalunya, and La Sagrada Familia. What is Barcelona famous for? Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is famous for its remarkable architecture, gold-sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, world-class cuisine, and of course, its local football team, commonly known as Barça. Is Barcelona expensive? Yes, Barcelona is quite expensive to visit but still more affordable when compared to other European destinations, such as Paris, London, and Rome. As of today, the average cost per traveller in Barcelona is between €90-120 per day. How many days do you need for Barcelona? First-time travellers should try and plan around 4-5 days – enough time to visit the city's main attractions, explore its characterful neighbourhoods and still have time to kick back and relax at the beach.

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open passport with entry stamps

Passport / Visa

Spain can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.

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T1 of Aeropuerto de Barcelona El Prat

Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN)

Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport, also known as Barcelona Airport or simply El Prat Airport, Barcelona’s main airport, is located 13 km southwest of the city centre. Aerobus serves both terminals every 5 minutes before leaving for the city centre with stops at Plaça Espanya, Plaça Universitat, and Plaça Catalunya. A one-way Aerobus ticket costs 5.90€ (10.20€ for a round trip) and the trip takes about 25 minutes to reach the city centre. Local trains leave for Barcelona every 30 minutes (from the train station next to terminal 2). From terminal 1 to terminal 2 there is a free connecting shuttle bus that takes around 10 minutes. The train takes about 30 minutes to Barcelona's Sants station and the ticket costs 4 €. Taxis are available just outside the terminals. The price depends on traffic, luggage, day of the week and time. Consult the airport website to learn more about other public transport routes servicing the airport.

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man on the floor of an airport

Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO)

Girona airport lies about 100 km from the centre of Barcelona, and there are three ways of getting between the two places. Buses will take you to Estacio d’Autobusos Barcelona Nord. They depart on a schedule based on the flights' arrival times. Prices for a one-way ticket start from 16 €. A taxi to Barcelona city centre may cost around 125 €, so a better option might be to stay overnight at Girona and travel by bus the next day. There are also trains to and from Barcelona from central Girona but you will have to find a solution to get from Girona train station to the airport.

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metro in Barcelona

Public Transport

Tickets for the underground and trams can be bought from travel information booths and from stations. They are valid for one trip. Bus tickets are bought from the driver. There is also a selection of different travel cards to purchase if you know that you will be travelling a lot.

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taxis in Barcelona

Taxi

Barcelona’s black and yellow taxis can be hailed on the street, at stations or called by telephone. Standard fares apply between 6am and 10pm from Monday to Friday. At all other times, including public holidays, fares are higher. Remember that drivers often have minimal small change and do not take credit cards. Barnataxi: +34 933 22 22 22 Ràdio Taxi: +34 933 03 30 33 Another option for lower fares is the rideshare company Uber.

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pink envelopes and a flower

Post

The post offices in Spain are called "Correos" (Correu in Catalan). Stamps can be purchased from post offices and kiosks - "Estancos". The main post office is located at Plaça d'Antonio López, near the Barceloneta metro station, and it is open from Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 8:30 pm.

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Art Nouveau Pharmacy - Barcelona

Pharmacy

Pharmacies in Barcelona take turns operating the after-hours service. The nearest pharmacy that is open at night will be posted on the door of adjacent pharmacies. Pharmacies with 24-hour service are: Farmàcia Clapés La Rambla 98 +34 933 01 28 43 Farmàcia A. Torres Carrer d'Aribau 62 +34 934 53 92 20

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old pay phones

Telephone

Country code: +34 Area code: 93

power plug

Electricity

220 volts (125 volts in some older buildings), 50 Hz