Barcelona City Guide
Barcelona is a unique. However, those arriving in the Catalan capital for the first time can feel overwhelmed and confused by the sheer amount of things to see and do in the city. And precisely for them, from GuruWalk we have prepared this practical travel guide in which we answer the main doubts of travelers and make, from the hand of our experts, recommendations that will make your experience incredible.
How To Get From The Airport To The Centre Of Barcelona
Bus: Direct service from the airport to Plaza Catalunya, with frequent departures. The price of the bus is 5.90 euros each way.
Train: Renfe line R2 connects the airport with Passeig de Gràcia station and other central stations. The price of this journey is approximately 3 euros.
Metro: Line L9 Sud connects the airport with several important stations in the city. The approximate cost of this journey is arround 6 euros.
Taxis: Available 24 hours a day, they offer a quick trip to the centre, but are the most expensive option. Prices vary according to the terminal you arrive at. It ranges from 23 euros from T-1 to the centre to 39 euros from T4 to the centre.
Useful Tips for Travelers
- Explore on foot or by bike: Barcelona is very friendly for pedestrians and cyclists, featuring many pedestrian streets and bike lanes.
- Transportation Card: Consider getting the Hola Barcelona Travel Card for unlimited public transport use. Prices range from €17.50 for two days to €40.80 for five days.
- Visit local markets: Don’t miss out on the Mercado de la Boquería for a burst of flavors and colors.
- Book in advance: For popular attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, book your tickets online to avoid long lines.
- About tap water: A common question among travelers arriving in Barcelona is whether the tap water is drinkable. Although many prefer bottled water, the tap water in Barcelona is potable and completely safe, so you can drink it without any risk.
Barcelona's Essentials
- The Sagrada Familia: Antoni Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece is one of the most emblematic symbols of Barcelona. Its complex architecture and detailed facades will leave you in awe.
- Park Güell: Another of Gaudí's great works, this park is full of colourful ceramics and amazing structures, with beautiful views of the city.
- La Rambla: One of Barcelona's most famous streets, ideal for strolling and enjoying its lively atmosphere, street performers, and markets, including the Boqueria Market.
- Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): The heart of the old city of Barcelona, full of medieval buildings, narrow streets, and hidden squares. Here you will find the Cathedral of Barcelona.
- Casa Batlló and La Pedrera (Casa Milà): Two of Gaudí's most famous creations on Passeig de Gràcia. Both houses stand out for their undulating facades and innovative interior design.
- Barceloneta Beach: Barcelona's best-known beach, perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean sun, water sports or just relaxing in the beach bars.
- Montjuïc: A hill that offers extensive gardens, museums and cultural attractions, such as Montjuïc Castle, the Joan Miró Foundation, and the Poble Espanyol. The views of the city from here are breathtaking.
- The Palau de la Música Catalana: An impressive music palace, a masterpiece of Catalan modernism, known for its spectacular concert hall.
Where To Eat The Best Calçots In Barcelona
If you travel to Catalonia, trying calçots is practically a must. Calçots are a variety of spring onion, similar to leeks but smaller, which are grown mainly in the region of Catalonia and are the main ingredient of a typical dish of the area that was christened "Calçotada".
Where To Try The Traditional 'pa amb tomàquet'
The 'pa amb tomàquet', bread with tomato, is an icon of Catalan culture that originates from the cuisine of the working classes. The need of the poorer classes to soften stale bread ended up becoming a dish appreciated by all Catalans and visitors.
The Best Ice Creams In Barcelona
Barcelona is not just famous for its culture and architecture; it's also a paradise for ice cream lovers. The city offers a wide range of options, from classic gelato to innovative flavors like turrón or crema catalana. Be sure to visit some of the artisanal ice cream shops scattered throughout the city to enjoy these delicious treats.
Where To Have Breakfast In Barcelona
Barcelona offers a delightful array of breakfast spots where you can start your day with everything from traditional Catalan dishes to international favorites. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty "pa amb tomàquet" or a simple café con leche, you'll find plenty of cozy cafes and bustling bakeries around the city that serve up delicious morning meals to suit any taste.
Express Journeys from Barcelona
How to get from Barcelona to Figueres
One of the typical routes from Barcelona leads to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. This city sparks the curiosity of many tourists due to its proximity to Barcelona. The best travel option from Barcelona to Figueres is the high-speed train. You can reach Figueres in about 50 minutes for just 15 euros per journey.
To fully explore every corner of Figueres, it's best to have one of the expert guides from GuruWalk with you. For more information, visit GuruWalk Figueres.
How to get from Barcelona to Tarragona
It's a classic for travelers to make use of their stay in Barcelona to visit Tarragona. This Roman city is just 1 hour and 14 minutes away by car and only about 35 minutes by high-speed train. Prices for these trains start at 7 euros and vary with demand.
Once in Tarragona, the best plan is to take a free tour with one of the expert guides you'll find at GuruWalk. For more information, visit GuruWalk Tarragona.
How to get from Barcelona to Madrid
Another travel option for those arriving in Barcelona from outside of Spain is to connect to Madrid. The best way to travel to the country's capital is also by high-speed train, reaching Madrid in about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Trains depart every few minutes, and tickets can be found starting from 7 euros, with prices varying according to demand.
In Madrid, you can visit major tourist attractions such as the Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, Puerta del Sol—the kilometer zero of Spain—Gran Vía, Callao Square, and Retiro Park. To ensure you miss nothing in Spain's capital, the best option is to take a free tour with one of the expert guides from GuruWalk. For more information, visit GuruWalk Madrid.
More tours in Barcelona
