Last Updated on December 24, 2025 by Emma Fajcz | Published: December 23, 2025
Barcelona is one of Europe’s most exciting cities, a place where bold architecture, incredible food, and a vibrant local culture come together. If you want to make the most of your trip, you need tips for visiting Barcelona that go beyond the basics. These 7 tips for visiting Barcelona are packed with practical advice, local secrets, and genuine recommendations from people who know and love the city. Let’s get started and make sure your trip is truly unforgettable!
Table of Contents
1. Where to Stay: Explore Beyond the Tourist Hotspots
Where you stay will shape your experience in Barcelona. Most first-time visitors look at the Gothic Quarter or El Born, but these areas can get crowded and sometimes feel a bit touristy.
Instead, consider neighborhoods like Eixample, Sant Antoni, or around the Sagrada Familia. Here, you’ll find bustling markets, excellent food, and a taste of real Barcelona life. The city’s metro is safe, efficient, and budget-friendly, so don’t worry about staying a bit further from the city center.
Insider Tip: Go for locally owned boutique hotels or licensed guesthouses. These places often support sustainable practices, help the local economy, and provide a personal touch. For something special, check out eco-friendly hotels like Eco Boutique Hostal Grau or the stylish Hotel Neri.
2. Must-See Sights and Hidden Corners
You can’t visit Barcelona without taking in Gaudí’s masterpieces like the Sagrada Familia, Casa Milà (La Pedrera), and Park Güell.
But the city is also full of lesser-known gems. Look for hidden gardens tucked inside Eixample’s city blocks—some are accessible through shops, like the Massimo Dutti store on Passeig de Gràcia, which opens up to a peaceful courtyard.
Another overlooked spot is the historic libraries at Barcelona’s universities. These beautiful spaces offer a calm retreat and a unique look at the city’s history.
For a well-balanced trip, mix the must-see sights with local favorites. Walk through neighborhood markets such as Santa Caterina or Sant Antoni. Take a trip beneath the city at the History Museum of Barcelona, where you can see Roman-era ruins and learn about 2,000 years of local history.
Insider Tip: Take our Complete Gaudi Tour to experience Gaudi’s artwork throughout the city alongside local experts.
3. Eating Like a Local
Barcelona’s food scene is famous for a reason. While you’ll find tapas everywhere, try to avoid the tourist traps. Look for the “menú del día,” a set lunch menu available at many neighborhood restaurants for about 15 euros. It’s usually fresh, seasonal, and great value. (Get more tips for eating in Barcelona if you haven’t visited before!)
While you’re in Barcelona, be sure to try some local dishes, like:
- Croquetas (especially with cod or roast chicken)
- Canelons (a local favorite during winter holidays)
- Black rice (arroz negro) and fideuà (a noodle-based version of paella)
- La bomba (a hearty potato and meat ball from the Barceloneta neighborhood)
- Crema catalana (Catalonia’s answer to crème brûlée)
For a sense of history, have a meal at Can Culleretes, the oldest restaurant in Catalonia, or El 4 Gats, once a gathering place for artists. For a modern twist, check out Bar Cañete for creative tapas.
Insider Tip: Eat where the locals do, especially at neighborhood bars and markets. Order a vermouth and some pintxos at a terrace, especially on a sunny afternoon.
4. Day Trips and Local Escapes
Barcelona is the perfect base for exploring Catalonia. If you have extra time, hop on a train to Tarragona for Roman ruins and sea views, or visit Sitges for its whitewashed streets and coastal vibe. If you love wine, head to the Penedès region for cava tastings.
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Montserrat with its dramatic peaks and historic monastery.
Art enthusiasts will love the Salvador Dalí Museum in Figueres, which can be paired with a visit to Dalí’s house in Cadaqués.
Insider Tip: Set aside at least one day for an excursion. The local train network makes it easy to get out of the city and experience more of Catalonia.
5. Why Book a Guided Tour with Take Walks
Barcelona is a city packed with stories, but it can be overwhelming to discover them on your own. That’s where Devour Barcelona Tours come in. Our small group walking, food, and culture tours are led by people who know Barcelona inside out. You’ll get to skip the lines at popular attractions, taste authentic food, and explore neighborhoods that most visitors miss.
At Devour, expect to sample hidden culinary gems, hear personal stories, and get practical tips that you won’t find in any guidebook.
Our sister company Walks offers tours focused on art, architecture, food, and more, so there’s something for every interest!
Insider Tip: Booking a guided tour saves time, gives you insider access, and helps you connect with other travelers. It’s a great way to get beneath the surface of the city.
6. Safety and Practical Advice
Barcelona is generally a safe city, but like any popular destination, it’s wise to be cautious with your belongings. Pickpockets tend to target busy areas and public transport, so keep your bag in front of you and use your hotel safe for valuables. Most locals speak Catalan and Spanish, but you’ll get by with English in hotels and restaurants.
Consider getting a T-Casual transport card, which gives you 10 metro rides at a discounted price. Download an offline map app (or save maps offline in Google Maps) to help you navigate the city.
Insider tip: Keep your wits about you in crowds, use public transport to get around, and greet people with a friendly “Hola.” It’ll help you blend in and feel more at home.
7. A Perfect Day in Barcelona: Sample Itinerary
Start your morning with breakfast at the Santa Caterina Market. Stroll through the atmospheric streets of El Born and visit Santa Maria del Mar. Take a walk along the beach, then ride the cable car up to Montjuïc for sweeping views of the city. Explore some of our favorite museums in Barcelona, like the National Art Museum of Catalonia or the Joan Miró Foundation. In the evening, enjoy pintxos in Poble-sec and finish with a cocktail at one of our favorite rooftop bars in Barcelona.
Want more ideas? Be sure to check our guide for how to see the best of Barcelona in one day.
Insider Tip: Mix must-see sights with time to relax. The city’s real charm comes from enjoying both the iconic and the everyday moments.
Want more insider tips for visiting Barcelona? Check out this video from our sister company Walks to help you have a stress-free trip!
Ready to Experience Barcelona as an Insider?
Book your adventure now with Devour Barcelona Tours and discover the city’s best-kept secrets. Your Barcelona story starts here!
Featured Review: Ultimate Barcelona Food Tour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The food tour allowed us to have the opportunity to try local foods. Dom did a great job explaining the history of Barcelona and each specialty. Will highly recommend this tour to all who are visiting Barcelona.”
– GetYourGuide customer
Visiting Barcelona FAQs
What’s the best time to visit Barcelona?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather and fewer crowds. Summer is lively but can be hot and busy.
Is Barcelona walkable?
Absolutely. Many attractions are within walking distance, especially in the city center. For longer journeys, the metro is quick and reliable.
Do I need to book tickets to Barcelona attractions in advance?
Yes. Top spots like Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Milà often sell out days ahead.
What’s a must-try local experience in Barcelona?
Join a food or walking tour led by someone who knows the city. You’ll discover the real Barcelona and meet fellow travelers.
