Introduction
Welcome to the wonderful exciting Spain, in particular the beautiful city of Barcelona. Barcelona has proved to be an interesting place to visit no matter what your passion is; history, food, or the beach. Below, you will find the most interesting sights, mouth-watering foods and helpful tips and tricks to make your stay in Barcelona an unforgettable one.
Getting There
The city of Barcelona is well connected by air, road and train transport means. Barcelona is located close to Barcelona-El Prat Airport which provides convenient connection with many international centers. When you arrive at the airport you can get to the city center using a taxi, bus or railway.
Where to Stay
Like most European cities, Barcelona has numerous and varied places of accommodation for all classes of travelers. If a person wishes to indulge in the nightlife and the arts, then Gothic Quarter El Raval is ideal place to stay. Gracia or Eixample areas are more suitable if you want something a bit low profile. You will be able to get all sorts of accommodations right from luxurious hotels, comfortable and cheap guest accommodations and even hostels.
Must-See Attractions
Sagrada Familia
After coming to Barcelona, the most famous tourist attraction that no one wants to miss is the Sagrada Familia. This basilica is another architectural marvel and is founded by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi; it exhibits both gothic and art nouveau structure. Always remember to make your ticket bookings in advance to avoid being struck by long lines.
Park Güell
Park Güell, another architectural marvel by Gaudí also boasted and provided and excellent view of the city. Walk around the colorful representations in mosaic sculptures and have a nice time in the shade and looking at other interesting architectural features. Do not forget to plan for the timed entry ticket as the park has a small daily visitor limit.
La Rambla
Visit La Rambla, the boulevard that sums up the spirits of the city of Barcelona. This pedestrian street contains stores, restaurants, cafes, and is actively dressed by street artists and musicians. Now it’s high time to drop by one of the most famous food markets – Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, and taste delicious Spanish cuisine here.
Gothic Quarter
Explore the labyrinth of Gothic Quarter and dive deep into the past of Barcelona to make your tour exciting. Wander around the stunnning barri Gothic’s most important church and stop by the artistically appealing squares lost between the Gothic quarter’s narrow lanes.
Delicious Cuisine
Barcelona is a city for food lovers with many restaurants which serves all kinds of cuisines. Make sure to try these local specialties:
Tapas: Tapas are appropriate snacks to be served because they are small and each has its own special taste. Most of the tapas can be ordered together, and therefore you’re able to feel the difference in the different combinations.
Paella: A Spanish dish using rice flavored with safron, seafoods and wee1, poultry and other meats. It can be recommended for a compulsory visit when in Barcelona.
Pintxos: Like tapas they are finger foods commonly found on a toothpick. When it comes to pintxos bars try out Poble Sec neighborhood.
Cava: copy of sparkling wine that is produced in Barcelona. Just before you pack your suitcase and head home, celebrate the Orxas by drinking a glass of cava.
Practical Tips
Transportation
Barcelona has a great system of public transport, which is buses, the metro, and trams and bike renting points. If you’ll be taking many rides in a day, it’s better to use a rechargeable transport card like the T-10 which gives a number of rides for a lower price. Walking is also a good idea for a journey in Środmieście, the central district of Warsaw.
Language
The people in Barcelona speak both the Catalan language and Spanish although Catalan is the official language. English is also widely spoken and comprehended by people in resort zones. Having a couple of words of Catalan with you will make the people here like you and make your stay even more enjoyable.
Safety
The city of Barcelona is quite safe; however, it stays safe is always sensible to follow a few preventive measures. Secure your personal items, opt not to walk alone being alone especially at night and beware of thieves everywhere but majorly at tourist areas.
Local Customs
If you are satisfied with the service when eating in a restaurant, it is expected that you pay a little extra to the person who served you. Customs and tips normally can be rounded at the bill amount or provided in the range of 5-10% from the total check. Also it is still customary to follow proper etiquette and protocols which is saying ‘ Bueños días’ (Good morning), ‘Bueinas tardes’ (Good afternoon or evening), ‘Buenas noches’ (Good evening or night).
Conclusion
Barcelona is a city which charms guests with historical landmarks, beautiful buildings and the mood of the city. Also, tourists can not only appreciate the best places in the city like works of Gaudí but also taste different delicious dishes. With the help of this guide, you are prepared to go to Barcelona and make the most amazing memories.
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