Barcelona

Best time to visit

May to June, September to October

Monthly temperatures

Currency

No need to exchange if coming from the Eurozone. Avoid exchange offices on La Rambla — they charge 10-15% commission. Use your bank card instead.

ATMs & cards

Use ATMs from major banks (CaixaBank, BBVA, Sabadell). Always decline "conversion" at the ATM and choose to be charged in EUR. Avoid Euronet ATMs — high fees.

Getting around

• Metro — fastest way around, T-Casual card (10 trips) is the best deal
• Bus — covers areas metro doesn't, same ticket works
• Walking — most of central Barcelona is walkable
• Bike — Bicing (locals only) or rental shops everywhere
• Airport: Aerobus to Plaça Catalunya (35 min, €7.75)

Must-see

Food tip

Eat where locals eat: avoid restaurants with photos on the menu. Try pintxos bars in El Born and vermuterías in Gràcia.

Safety

Watch for pickpockets on La Rambla and the metro. Keep bags zipped and in front of you.

Things to do

• Visit Sagrada Familia and Park Guell
• Walk through the Gothic Quarter
• Eat tapas at La Boqueria Market
• Relax on Barceloneta Beach
• See Casa Batllo and La Pedrera
• Watch flamenco in El Born

Nearby day trips