Tips for Barcelona. Six things not to do in Barcelona

Explore our tips for amazing Barça and go ahead!

What should you pay attention to in Barcelona?

It’s worth going to sunbathe on Barceloneta beach, take a walk in parks (for example, “Gaudi” - he’s in the photo above), see local architecture, museums, wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, go to the farmers’ market, have a good rest in bars, eat local eat in cafes and restaurants, visit the zoo, take an excursion to the Montjuic and Tibidabo mountains, and be sure to try the local street food.

What is the best beach in Barcelona?

If you choose a beach to swim and sunbathe, go outside the city. Gava and Badalona are great options. In Barcelona itself, the cleanest beach is near the W Hotel: Barceloneta. You can also go to Mar bella beach.

Which SIM card should I buy for a trip to Barcelona?

When purchasing a SIM card Orange Mundo you will get 7 Gigabytes of Internet at 4G speed for 12.90 euros. The price is as of April 20, 2019. The Internet can be distributed via Wi-Fi to other devices.

Should I take cash with me? Is it possible to pay using a card?

If you are bringing rubles, here you can find them won't exchange. Cash in euros is vital, but in some places you can also pay by card. Vintage bars and restaurants, for example, only accept cash payments. Some grocery stores only accept cards if the value of your purchases is more than 6 euros.

How is the security in Barca?

There are always a lot of tourists in the city, and scammers take advantage of this, stealing everything they can. At the same time, they act carefully, quietly, so as not to arouse suspicion, because no one wants to be prosecuted. So always watch your bags, or better yet, leave all your valuables at the hotel.

What is the cost of budget accommodation in Barcelona?

Depending on what season it is and the length of your stay - starting from 30 € per night for a hostel, continuing with an amount of about 80 € for and ending with cosmic money of 500 euros for a room at the W Hotel.

Monthly rent starts at 250 euros per month for a room or 700 euros for an apartment. You can find accommodation at Booking.com

How does airbnb work?

Frankly, it's bad. It is better to book a hotel on Hotellook.com

Where to go from Barcelona for the day?

How to travel cheaply within Spain?

Using an international online service BlaBlacar, as well as by trains (although they are quite expensive if they are fast. If you want it cheap, go by regional trains Renfe).

You can find a cheap train ticket from Barcelona directly on this page. Use the search and purchase of tickets through the Omio.Ru website (formerly GoEuro):

How to call a taxi?

Using the application MyTaxi. You can also catch them by sticking your hand out to the side. There are a lot of cars, and catching them will not be difficult. Taxis in yellow and black colors blend amazingly with the bright image of the city. Equipped with meters, there are four types of tariffs. For example, to get to the city from El Prat airport you will have to pay 35 €. Compare - a comfortable Aerobus will cost you 5.95 €.

What's the best way to get around Barcelona?

A bicycle or moped is also perfect. In the central part of the city there are many rental points with a large selection, where you can rent a moped or bicycle at your discretion. You can also rent electric motorcycles.

Is there hitchhiking?

Yes, but it cannot be used on high-speed routes such as autovía and autopista.

Are there dishes for vegetarians?

In Barcelona there is a wide range of dishes for vegetarians, but mainly such food is in demand among visitors. Locals prefer jamon.

Where can you buy fruits and vegetables?

They are sold almost everywhere. You may even get the impression that cash is being smuggled in illegally through grocery stores and confectionery shops.

What are the most popular events in Barcelona?

Festivals Sónar & Primavera Sound, Tattoo Expo Barcelona, Salón Erótico, Mobile World Congress, city celebrations La Mèrce & Llum BCN, architectural chaos 48 horas open house.

What dishes are worth trying in Barcelona?

Sandwiches with jamon and local sausages and cheeses! These products are placed on classic bread, greased with tomato.
Tapas are tiny portioned snacks that are definitely worth trying.
Pinchos is a type of serving of a dish - a slice of bread on a stick on which the main dish lies.
Olives can be eaten in large quantities in Barcelona, as can seasonal fruits.
The best place to try paella is in Valencia.

What do the locals smoke?

They don’t smoke anything prohibited, but they gather in strictly designated places - in private organizations that you can’t just get into. To enter there, you need to provide information about a club member.

What drinks do local residents prefer?

Beer, vermouth, cola, wine, cava (local fizz), cava sangria, ron cremat (something like mulled wine, only it has a base of burning rum), clara and tinto de verano (carbonated drink mixed with beer and wine) on hot days.

Is it possible to drink running water?

Yes, you can drink water from local fountains. There is an opinion that in order to come to Barça again, you need to say Font de Canaletes Barça when you drink from the fountain.

Do I need a visa to Barcelona?

Yes, it is necessary. It is possible to stay in the city for up to 3 months every six months on a tourist visa. And don't forget to buy, otherwise you risk losing more money.

What dangers await you in the city?

It is better not to walk around in a miniskirt in areas such as Raval, Zona Franca and Mina.

What is the difference between Barcelona and other cities in the state?

Barcelona is strikingly contrasting and cosmopolitan, with all sorts of activities and exciting events. No city in the kingdom has such freedom of morals as here.

What are the best attractions and places to see?

Boqueria Market. Be sure to visit the market, which is about 8 centuries old, and try something delicious. It's just that he doesn't work on Sunday.
La Rambla street. Catalans call Rambla the best street in the world. We have a different impression (a lot of people and beggars), but you have to form your own opinion.
Sagrada Familia. It is worth purchasing tickets for this place in advance online, and under no circumstances should you be late.
Barceloneta Beach. Once there was a fishing village, and now the most famous beach in the city. It’s better not to lie on the beach itself—it’s better to just walk along the seashore.
Plaza España and the Singing Fountain. This place has a charming square and a charming fountain.
Citadel Park. Local square, everyone moves at a fast pace, meditates, has a noisy picnic, walks on ropes, swims on boats and feeds ducks.

Where is the most beautiful view in Barcelona?

Bunkers del Carmel – Be sure to take a picnic basket full of goodies there. But you have to walk there 1.5 km from the El Carmel metro station - and all the time uphill! You can shorten the journey a little if you take bus No. 86 two stops from the metro.

And an even better view opens upon arrival in Barcelona (at El Prat), if you sit in seat F on the plane.

What about a second-hand market?

There is one in Barcelona. Encants is one of the oldest European markets.

What is the situation after the recent strike incidents?

Everything is fine in Barcelona, there are meetings, but they go without incident.

For what reason does everyone rest on Sundays?

Because trade unions are doing everything to make Sundays unusual. But this does not apply to tourist areas, where you can always find a place to eat. And the Maremagnum trade center generally operates 365 days a year.

Which areas are considered the best? Where is the central part of Barcelona?

In the middle of Plaza Catalunya is the center of Barcelona. The best areas are those located above the Diagonal project. These are sad residential areas with villas. Gracia & Poble Nou is the latest in fashion and very modern. Gótico is the central part, noisy and crowded. Born - soul.

How much money will I have to spend?

If you are on vacation, then the minimum is 80 € per day per person. And if you live, then about 800 € per month.

What is the attitude in Barcelona towards Russian tourists?

They perceive tourists simply as a wallet with money. And to those who moved there to live - with caution, since our worldview does not fit into their society.

Which language is more popular?

Every resident of the city understands Spanish, but as you move away from the city, fewer and fewer people are eager to speak the state language and prefer Catalan.

But here they could speak better.

Five words you simply need to know in Barcelona?

Hola(sp/cat.) - hello
molt be(cat.) - very good
adeu(cat.) - for now
mañana(Spanish) - tomorrow
vamos a la playa(Spanish) - let's go to the beach

How to go to football in Barcelona and spend as little money as possible?

To save money, it is better to attend games Spanish Cup in autumn and winter. The easiest way to look at the match schedule is on Wikipedia. Tickets for the Barcelona cup match can be bought for 59 €, but it is not a fact that you will see the strongest Barca squad. And prices for championship matches will not be cheaper than 80 euros.

You can go to Barcelona's main stadium for free only in the summer, when the club's newcomers are presented.

What souvenir should you buy in Barcelona and bring home?

Sangria, jamon, cheese, olive oil, clothes from supermarkets. In general, whatever you like with the inscription flor de barcelona.

This concludes our article on travel tips for Barcelona. Write your questions in the comments if you have any, share this article with your friends on social networks and catch cheap tickets to Barcelona!

Barcelona from A to Z: map, hotels, attractions, restaurants, entertainment. Shopping, shops. Photos, videos and reviews about Barcelona.

Last minute tours to Spain
Tours for the New Year Worldwide

Proud, narcissistic, explosive, full of geniuses and mediocrities, falling in love and in love, tiring and tired... all this is about Barcelona - one of the most beautiful cities not only in Europe, but in the whole world. When Muscovites are asked what the capital is missing, 9 out of 10 answer - seas! So, Barcelona is Moscow with the sea, it’s the frantic energy of Dali, the amazing architecture of Gaudi, stunning outfits of the LGBT community, active cycling traffic, awesome parties and endless sangria. It would be madness to begin to list at least some of its attractions in the introduction to the Catalan capital: they are found here literally at every step, the ancient Roman port breathes history, every stone is ready to tell its own legend, and all modern monuments are worthy of at least an anthem or ode. In short, Barcelona is a city of art. Coming here grey, boring, tired and devastated, you leave the city of love with such a charge of creative energy, sun, strength and good mood that the border guards at the airport squint their eyes warily. The glow of Barcelona will remain with you for a long time, illuminating cozy Russian evenings with a Mediterranean flair.

Search for flights to Barcelona

Neighborhoods of Barcelona

Barcelona is divided into 10 administrative districts. All the main attractions are concentrated in three: the Old Town (aka the Gothic Quarter), which is the historical center of the capital of Catalonia; The Eixample, or New Town, built in the 19th century and showcasing Gaudi's major works, and the Montjuic district, located on the slopes of the hill of the same name. It is impossible to explore the most interesting places to visit and visit museums in one day. It's best to come here for a week.

The heart of the city is Plaza Catalunya, from which the main pedestrian street and also a local landmark, La Rambla, runs towards the sea. This boulevard is the border between two quarters: Gothic and Raval. A great many attractions are concentrated around the central square: the Columbus Monument and the medieval Drassanes shipyards (now the Maritime Museum), the Barcelona Exhibition Center, the National Palace, the Marcet Palace.

The heart of Barcelona is Plaça Catalunya.

Those with plenty of time should check out the atmospheric Gràcia district, home to Barcelona's artists and students. This area is strikingly different from the rest of Barcelona with narrow streets with a chaotic layout and many small cozy places where you can take a break. The famous Park Güell is located in the northern part of Gracia; In addition, the area is famous for the annual city festival "Fiesta Major", which takes place here during the last two weeks of August.

Transport

Barcelona's general ATM public transport system includes the metro, buses, trams, Rodalies urban trains (RENFE) and FGC trains. For most tourist routes in Barcelona, the metro is sufficient. But by purchasing a general ATM pass, you will be able to use all of the above types of transport within the tariff zone indicated on it. This pass actually saves not only money, but also nerves, since it’s easy to get confused on Barcelona trains alone.

Metro

Getting around Barcelona by metro is very convenient. It opens at 5:00 and closes at 24:00, on Friday at 2:00, and from Saturday morning it works continuously until 0:00 on Sunday. The only inconvenience for city visitors is that most lines are operated by TMB, but lines 6, 7 and 8 are operated by FGC, and transfers between lines of different companies require an additional passage through turnstiles and an entrance fee unless you use travel card

The cost of a one-way trip is 2.15 EUR, so it is more profitable for a tourist to purchase a ticket for 10 trips (T-10) for 11.55 EUR for tariff zone 1, in which most attractions are located. The same tickets can be used on buses, trams, the Catalan railway FGC and main RENFE trains. Also convenient are single passes for 2-5 days, which give the right to an unlimited number of trips on the metro and bus and cost from 12 EUR. Prices on the page are as of September 2018.

Travel cards of the T-10 and T-50/30 types imply limited time for transfers within one trip. For example, in the tariff zone, one transfer is considered to be a change of transport within 1 hour 15 minutes after activating the ticket: then it will be a new trip.

City trains

In addition to the metro, Barcelona has other types of rail transport. This is sometimes confusing because they often also use underground stations, although they are not part of the metro system. Such stations are marked at the entrance not with the letter M, but with the logos of the management companies - FGC or Rodalies. It makes sense to use these trains not so much for exploring the city, but for traveling around the surrounding area. For example, the coastal railway line, which runs through many resort suburbs to Blanes (tariff zone 6), belongs to the Rodalies company.

For the first time in Barca: what is definitely worth seeing | Caution: very beautiful!

Other types of urban transport

There are only 6 fairly long tram lines in Barcelona. Trams operate almost according to the metro schedule, they are fast and cover one stop on average in a couple of minutes. With buses, the situation is not so simple: their schedule depends on the day of the week, there are a lot of routes and they are quite confusing. In addition, you have to catch the buses with your hand at the stop and stop them with the press of a button if you need to get off. Despite the fact that many have boards indicating stop numbers, tourists are highly recommended to stock up on the appropriate mobile application to use Barcelona buses. In general, the bus network starts operating at 5:30 and stops at 22:30, although there are a few night buses. The cost for the metro, buses and trams is the same.

Taxi

Taxis in Barcelona are not difficult to find: they are black and yellow cars that are found everywhere. There are 4 tariffs for traveling around the city, depending on the hour of the day and day of the week. The starting price is about 2.10 EUR (it increases for taxis booked in advance). Then the cost of the trip is calculated using a meter in increments of 1.30 EUR. The vast majority of Barcelona taxi drivers are honest, but to be absolutely sure, you can tell them in advance when getting into the car that you will need a receipt. A taxi from Barcelona airport to the city center will cost 35-40 EUR.

Bicycles

You can rent a bicycle in Barcelona from one of the private companies (the city has a bicycle system called Barcelona Bicing, but it is not available to tourists). Prices vary greatly depending on the location of the rental company, the type of bike and rental conditions; on average, you can find a bike for 9 EUR per day. You can also find an electric bike for about 16 EUR. Some rental companies organize bike tours around the center lasting 3-4 hours and costing from 40-50 EUR.

Barcelona Tourist Bus

Perhaps the best chance to explore and imagine the city, its architecture and areas is provided by a tourist bus. By purchasing a ticket for 1 or 2 days (27 and 38 EUR, respectively), a tourist gets the opportunity to travel non-stop from 9:00 to 20:00 along three routes located almost throughout Barcelona - from Montjuic to the Olympic Port and from Tibidabo to Old cities. The bus makes stops at the most famous attractions (National Palace, Sagrada Familia, Miro Foundation, etc.), where you can get off and on the bus as many times as you like throughout the day (or two). The repetition frequency is 5-10 minutes. In addition, along the way you can listen to an audio guide in Russian using free headphones, which are also given when purchasing a ticket (and this does not count the map and discounts on museums and restaurants).

Rent a Car

What to try

In Barcelona restaurants you will find absolutely incredible seafood in abundance. The most common species to be caught are cod, anchovies, whiting, flounder and monkfish. In addition to seafood delicacies, Catalans highly respect meat, especially grilled meat and especially pork. As in Valencia, rice is held in high esteem in Catalonia: rice with herbs, rice with meat, rice with fish or shellfish. The most famous local rice dish does not come from Catalonia at all - we are, of course, talking about paella. But “black rice” with cuttlefish ink is a Catalan dish.

Tapas can be found everywhere in Barcelona, although they are an Andalusian invention rather than a local one (the Catalan equivalent of tapas is called pintxos). But such popular delicacies among tourists as dry-cured ham “jamon”, spicy sausages with red pepper “chorizo” or homemade pork sausage “fuet” with noble white mold, are easier to buy in the store. Real Catalan cuisine consists of simple, even crude dishes that are quite difficult on the stomach. If this doesn’t scare you, try the traditional village sausage “butifarra” with beans.

Along with ice cream, street stalls in Barcelona sell the traditional soft drink "horchata" made from the "chufa" plant - a plant analogue of milk that has a rather specific taste.

Cafes and restaurants in Barcelona

Guides in Barcelona

Entertainment and attractions

Barcelona is an architectural marvel of Spain whose attractions attract huge numbers of tourists throughout the year. This is an open-air museum where Gothic masterpieces of the Middle Ages, experimental buildings in the Art Nouveau style and modern trends in art, such as high-tech, are surprisingly harmoniously combined.

The main attractions of Barcelona are concentrated in three districts: Old Town, Eixample and Montjuic.

Views of charming Barcelona

Old Town and Gothic Quarter

Any list of the best attractions in Barcelona will include the oldest quarter of the Old Town with the telling name Gothic. Most of the buildings here date back to the 14th and 15th centuries. In addition, here you can find buildings from the times of the ancient Romans. The main attraction is the Cathedral, or Cathedral of the Holy Cross and St. Eulalia, which is considered one of the most beautiful not only in Barcelona, but throughout Spain. It was built from the end of the 13th century to the mid-15th century, and today it is this, and not the Sagrada Familia, that serves as the residence of the archbishop. The Picasso Museum is on Via Montcada in the Old Town. The exhibition occupies 5 Gothic buildings and includes many works by the great artist. In particular, those that relate to the “blue period” in his work.

10 things to do in Barcelona

On the very first day, climb to the observation deck of the Sagrada Familia Cathedral and take an inquisitive look at the surroundings.
Take a sip of water from the fountain in Plaza Catalunya and be sure to come to magical Barcelona again.
Watch mimes on the streets, not forgetting about the reward.
Try young Spanish wine (2-3 EUR per bottle) and be pleasantly surprised.
Visit the best aquarium in Europe (yes, it is located in Barcelona!)
Spend a day on the fine sand of the beach near the El Maresme-Forum metro station - there are fewer people than on Barceloneta, and the sea is magical.

Eixample

The Eixample district was designed in the 19th century, when it became clear that the city needed to be expanded. A rectilinear layout had never been used in Barcelona before, and thanks to it, the architects were able to achieve not only convenience, but also external effects. Now in Eixample there is a large number of unique buildings, among which Gaudi's buildings have become famous. Its famous Sagrada Familia, 170 m high, is one of the symbols of the city.

Sagrada Familia and Gaudi

Antonio Gaudi began building the multi-towered Sagrada Familia (Holy Family) cathedral in 1883, but the construction of the temple has not yet been completed, which does not prevent it from remaining the most famous architectural structure in the city. Gaudi himself is rightly considered the most famous and truly outstanding architect of Spain, being also a prominent representative of Catalan Art Nouveau. The unique buildings he created are one of the most colorful faces of Barcelona. Such creations of the great Gaudí as the Palacio Güell on Carrer Nou de la Rambla and the park of the same name, the Sagrada Familia, Casa Vicens, Casa Batlló on Passeig de Gracia and Casa Mila, nicknamed “The Quarry”, are under UNESCO protection and are a must-see for everyone who comes to Barcelona. Among other things, the Calvet mansion and the elegant lanterns of the Plaza Real stand out. Read more on the Gaudi and Barcelona page

The city's tourism office invites everyone to join unusual tours of Barcelona cinema in Spanish and English, which start every Saturday at 17:00 from the Columbus Monument in Portal de la Pau. The assortment includes: a walk “together” with Pedro Almodóvar, Woody Allen or Manuel Huerga through the most cinematic places in the city, entertaining stories about the filming of such films as “Perfume” by Tom Tykwer, “Salvador” by Manuel Huerga, “The Spanish Inn” (“Spanish Flu” ") by Cedric Klapisch, "Vicky, Cristina, Barcelona" by Woody Allen and "All About My Mother" by Pedro Almodóvar.

Duration of the excursion: 2.5 hours. Cost - 14.50 EUR, children under 8 years old - free. You can book a ticket on the website of the tourist office or purchase it at the group meeting point no later than 15 minutes before the start of the excursion.

Port Aventura, one of the best in Europe. You can get there by first taking the train to Salou in less than 2 hours, and then taking the bus to the park itself in 10-15 minutes.

The greatest concentration of interesting places for children in Barcelona is found near the port. Firstly, there is an aquarium with a tunnel for observing sharks. Secondly, there is a zoo where they hold a dolphin show. Thirdly - the Chocolate Museum and the Maritime Museum. Another equally rich place is northern Barcelona: the amusement park on Mount Tibidabo and the entertaining science museum CosmoCaixa. In principle, Park Güell also falls into the category of suitable places for children, if you don’t delve into it too far.

Weather

Average monthly temperature, °C day and night, water

A visit to Barcelona is a wonderful experience because the city has so many interesting places to stay, great shopping and a variety of attractions. But when you find yourself in a metropolis for the first time, it’s easy to get confused. Therefore, it is good to have on hand in a city like Barcelona advice for tourists: where, what and how to get there faster and cheaper, where it is better to stay, what to see, where to go or where to eat.

In this section for everyone who is interested in Barcelona: useful tips for tourists, help for shopping lovers, little tricks for vacationers that can make their vacation more enjoyable and comfortable. For those who have read our advice, the city will open up in full view and there will no longer be any incomprehensible or problematic moments. The section covers all aspects of tourist life and varied recreation in the capital of Catalonia.

Little things that can make your stay in this beautiful, yet foreign city easier are collected in one place. In the city of Barcelona, useful tips will allow you to always be aware of current events. We are confident that we can find a simple and convenient answer to any question a traveler may have. There is also useful information here, after learning which you can spend your time with greater benefit and interest.

Free Wi-Fi

The city is covered by the Barcelona Municipal Wi-Fi program. More and more new Wi-Fi points are opening regularly, so that coverage will soon cover the entire territory of the capital of Catalonia down to the last meter. But these points do not operate around the clock, but from 8 am to 10 pm.

Communication services

It is convenient to make telephone calls in Barcelona with a standard tarjeta telefònica card. Mobile operators operate on standard GSM systems. You can find out the number of any emergency service by calling 010. There is a post office and many Internet cafes.

Beaches

Barceloneta, Mar Bella and Nova Mar Bella, Bogatell and Nova Icaria, Paseo Maritimo and Sant Sebastia - any of the beaches of the Catalan capital are an excellent place for swimming and sunbathing. It is also important that they are all free.

What to bring from Barcelona

Ceramics, dishes, ladies' accessories, souvenirs with Gaudi mosaics are the most obvious choice. If we talk about gastronomic gifts, it is worth purchasing local wines and sausages. Well, for men, the best souvenir would be something with the symbols of FC Barca.

Where to eat

Any local cafe and restaurant will serve you high-quality, satisfying and appetizing dishes. Therefore, getting enough of the taste is not a problem here. And those who want to become more familiar with the local cuisine simply need to try, for example, paella, fideua, tapas, and in the summer - gazpacho.

What to see

This is not an easy choice. It is unrealistic to get acquainted with all the sights of the city in a short time. But even an ordinary walk through the historical center or a visit to a museum, viewing any Gaudí masterpiece or looking from the top of Tibidabo will leave unforgettable memories.

How to get around

For avid tourists, the most natural thing is, of course, walking. But since it is impossible to get around the huge metropolis on your own, visitors are offered buses, taxis, rental cars, bicycles and 4 types of rail transport. There are no trolleybuses in Barcelona.

Barcelona is one of the most popular cities for shopping. This is not Milan or Paris with their “high fashion” stores, but a much more affordable option for any tourist who would like to spend reasonable money on truly stylish things or accessories. Read our article about where, how and when to “shop” in Barcelona.

WHY BARCELONA

Prices! Price tags in stores and assortment will please even the most experienced shopaholic. In addition, in the summer there are really worthwhile sales with real discounts on branded items.

Situation! If you are traveling with your family, then your husband and children will certainly not be bored while you are shopping. Barcelona is a city of inexhaustible possibilities: stunning architecture, historical monuments, an aquarium, museums, zoos, restaurants and unique local cuisine will relieve fatigue after a run through shopping centers and entertain those who are not interested in shopping.

By the way, just an hour’s drive from Barcelona is the famous amusement park Port Aventura, a great reward for children’s patience! For children, shopping centers and outlets have equipped playgrounds, mother and child rooms, and babysitting services.

Policytaxfree! Remember that the main condition for processing return documents is the purchase amount not less than 90.16 euros and a document certifying the citizenship of the buyer. VAT refunds are usually carried out at the airport after passing through customs and filling out the appropriate form. Refund amount may vary from 4 to 15% of the purchase amount- depending on the product category and taking into account commission deductions.

In some shopping centers and stores Barcelona tax free refund can be given to you immediately after payment for the purchase- and in cash euros. But it should also be remembered that small stores very often do not issue tax refunds and they don’t draw up documents for it.

WHAT TO BUY IN BARCELONA

Let's ignore souvenirs, cheese and Spanish wine - a lot has been written about them, and of course, you will also find all this in Barcelona. But, of course, it’s worth going to this city primarily for and clothing, shoes and accessories.

Spain is famous for its fashion brands- Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Mango, MaxMara, Desigual and many others. Stylish and high-quality clothes, comfortable shoes, a large selection of sizes and all this at prices that are significantly lower than in Russia.

So feel free to grab another empty suitcase and come to Barcelona for some shopping! However, you can also buy a suitcase here, as well as everything else - watches and bags, cosmetics, goods for men and women, children's clothing - of a wide variety of brands, from the most budget to the luxury segment.

WHEN IS THE SALE IN BARCELONA?

The ideal time for shopping in Barcelona is during sales periods. There are two main ones here. “Summer” - from July 1 until the end of summer(by the end August there remains a small selection of sizes, but at very sweet prices), and “winter” - after January 7 and before the beginning of March. Discounts start from 20-50% and by the end of the period can reach 70-80%.

Bright inscriptions "Rebaixes"(“discounts”) appear in many storefronts in the city, and the excitement in their first days is unimaginable. Literally everything is swept away - from inexpensive children's clothes to the latest models of branded bags and outfits in VIP-segment stores. It is worth remembering that Barcelona stores open half an hour or an hour earlier on the first day of sales, and queues for the most popular ones begin to form an hour before opening. It’s impossible to put things off at the checkout at this time, there are queues and confusion in the fitting rooms.

That's why little secret from us- come a couple of days before the sales start, slowly go shopping, try on everything you like, and on the day of the sale, calmly and purposefully take exactly what suits you. This will significantly save you time and effort.

Take note of one more fact: in August the Spaniards go on vacation and some small boutique shops will be closed, so it's better to come early July to skim off the cream. Please note that most shops are also closed on Sundays and during the week the “siesta” in small shops has not been canceled.

Well, if you don’t fall into the sales period, then you shouldn’t be upset. Throughout the year, in any case, you will be able to buy items of European quality and original design from famous designers and little-known Spanish brands at very attractive prices. in outlets or on short-term discount promotions in large stores - there are also many of them.

SHOPPING ROUTES IN BARCELONA

Can choose three basic shopping strategies in Barcelona - depending on your strength, time availability and requests.

1. BY BUS

The first is to go along the “ready-made route” for shopping lovers. The Barcelona authorities paid attention to the flow of tourists - “shoppers”, and organized a whole bouquet for them ring bus routes, united under the general name BarcelonaShoppingLine. Buses run on them on weekdays, the routes include stops at the most popular shopping places.

Maybe Several variants stops depending on tourists' requests: for example, “Gourmet”, “Independent designers”, “Exclusive stores”, etc..

Particularly popular route “Shops of the old town”, when during your trip you can not only hunt for exclusive things at a great price, but also enjoy the atmosphere of old Barcelona.

On the route you can see not only not only salons of world brands, but also local authentic spanish shops. Various accessories for home and interior, cosmetics, things for children and high-quality Spanish shoes can all be found there.

All routes start from Plaza Catalunya, that's where they end. Tickets can be purchased from the bus driver once and ride all day, getting off at any stop and getting on again.

2. BY YOURSELF - ON WALK OR BY TAXI

Second strategy- download a map to your smartphone (or pick it up) and walk around the city yourself. This option requires time, effort, and, most importantly, some knowledge. It’s the latter that we will now try to give you.

So, in Barcelona two main and iconic streets for shopaholics, around which your “shopping route” can be built are Paseo de Gracia(Paceo de Gracia) and La Diagonal(or Avinguda Diagonal in Catalan).

The first route is connected to Paseo de Gracia and is pedestrian. The avenue is located in the historical part of the city. Let's say right away that the prices here will not be low, even taking into account the discounts.

This is where the concentration of all premium stores is located - Escada, Armani, Max Mara, Prada and others. Shopping mall BulevardRossa, sandwiched among houses, connects the avenue with the neighboring street.

While walking along the avenue from store to store, do not forget to pay attention to the architectural sights - famous Gaudi houses - Casa Batllo and Casa Mila. However, the entire avenue is impressive with its unique architecture. The Paseo has many small cafes located on the street - be sure to eat delicious tapas and a glass of sangria here.

As we already said, Paseo Avenue itself is not a cheap place. But on streets parallel to Paseo a lot of people huddle together less expensive than on the avenue itself, shops, including with local brands- and you should definitely look into them too.

Gradually going down the avenue, you will come to Plaza Catalunya.

In addition to beautiful monuments, there is multi-storey shopping centerElCorteIngles, where you can buy almost everything - from lipstick or cheese to clothes and shoes of prestigious brands and equipment for the office or home. This shopping center is quite expensive.

But on the same square, next to it, stands more affordable prices shopping mall - ElTriangle. Here are presented budget brands clothing, accessories, cosmetics and shoes, goods for children.

Below from the square, going down to the sea, there is a famous pedestrian La Rambla (LaRamblas)- an analogue of our Old Arbat. Here, local (and not only) artists exhibit their paintings and souvenirs for sale, and street performers and musicians surprise the public with their skills.

The La Rambla area is a real treasure for antique dealers and flea market lovers. On the neighboring streets Gothic Quarter the original ones are hidden antique shops, where you can unexpectedly find a unique item for your collection - be it a book, an engraving or antique lace.

Well, here we are: a five-minute walk along La Rambla, on the right side, is located famous food market Boqueria. Small cafes nestle around its perimeter, offering snacks, desserts and wine, and the market itself is located in a covered pavilion.

As a rule, it shocks our tourist with its selection of fruits, sausages and cheeses, and the aromatic smells of fish and meat aisles. Despite the fact that this is a “market”, prices here are higher than in supermarkets. But the market is good as a tasting tourist attraction - it will leave you with vivid impressions and no less juicy photos.

And here is the second of the possible routes for shopping will take much more effort and time from you, as a pedestrian - it involves walking along Diagonal Avenue (La Diagonal). Therefore, to move here, unlike Paseo, better to use a car, because the distance is very decent - the length of this avenue, crossing the entire city, is 11 kilometers, and, hopefully, there are a lot of shopping bags.

Here they prevail stylish expensive stores of famous world brands.

On it are also located huge shopping centersElCorteIngles,Glories andL'Illa- you can spend the whole day in them. In addition to shops, this avenue contains many city attractions, churches and monuments - for example, Agbar Tower, "House with Spires" and others.

3. RAIDS TO Shopping Centers AND OUTLETS: WHERE AND WHAT

The third shopping strategy in Barcelona - “raids in shopping centers” - is suitable for those who do not have much energy and time to thoroughly study the shopping streets.

Large shopping centers many in different areas of Barcelona. They are usually organized according to one, fairly standard scheme. On the underground floors there is a parking lot, bank offices and a tax free refund office (!) - this, by the way, is a good purchasing strategy in a shopping center. By the way, Please pay attention in advance to the conditions for processing a tax free return.- in shopping centers El Corte Inglés networks you can buy goods in various departments and check out one return receipt taking into account different receipts.

On the floor above, as a rule, there is a grocery supermarket. On the “zero” floor, where the entrance is usually stores of cosmetics, bags and accessories. And then, floor by floor, there are departments of clothing and footwear for children, women, men, office equipment, goods for the home and garden. On the top floor there is, as in Moscow, a food court with cafes and restaurants.

Outside the main transport routes Barcelona also has original and relatively inexpensive shopping centers. For example, shopping center LaMaquinista designed in the form of a semi-open shopping center with squares and original sculptures.

Cafes and restaurants here are right in the open air, unobtrusive music and a small number of people will allow you to shop in a relaxed atmosphere. There are few tourists here, but there are a sufficient number of shops. This shopping center is dominated by shops of little-known local brands, but there are also famous brands.

Finally, there is in Barcelona and outlets. And they are an excellent way out of the situation for those who come outside the discount season or those who would like to cover all the fashion stores in the city, but do not have time. Outlets are usually located outside the city, and for the convenience of guests are provided buses that follow a schedule from several stops in Barcelona.

Barcelona outlets sell last year's collections at big discounts all year round. Brands Mango, Desigual, Custo, Hello Kitty, Bosa Nova in Barcelona they have own outlets.

The most famous outlet near Barcelona - LaRocaVillage- decorated in the form of a small cozy village. More than 200 shops, restaurants and cafes are located in the open air. There are no budget brands here, VIP-segment stores predominate, but the prices are quite tempting and this is an excellent option to buy yourself a new thing from a prestigious company.

Arriving in Barcelona, even for a couple of days, you can replenish your wardrobe with stylish things, but for a full exploration of the shops it is better to stop days for 5, so that without haste and fuss you can choose the best in a variety of shops in the city and outlets. Moreover, you don’t have to have a large amount of money on your credit card or in your wallet - during the sales period you can save a lot here, the main thing is to know the places!

We tried to tell you about the most famous places for shopping, but this, of course, is not all, and a discerning tourist who has been to Barcelona many times will undoubtedly add his own advice. They work in Barcelona more than 35,000 stores- and on every street and in every district of the city you will definitely find your favorite stores.

Barcelona is waiting for its guests! Moreover, sales start - very soon!

1 /1

5. What can you visit for free?

Barcelona often hosts various events, and the city's museums hold weekly open days. Here are just a few that you can visit for free if you know when to come:

Science Museum in Barcelona (CosmoCaixa) - on the first Monday of the month admission is free (on other days - €3.80).
Center for Contemporary Culture of Barcelona (Centre De Cultura Contemporània De Barcelona) - every Sunday from 15:00 to 20:00 (on other days - €6-8).
Picasso Museum in Barcelona (Picasso Museum) - every first Sunday of the month and every Sunday from 15:00 (standard ticket price - from €15).
Palace Güell (Palau Güell) - the first Sunday of every month, as well as April 23 and May 8 (on other days you will have to pay from €12).
Virreina Palace (Palacio de la Virreina), which today houses the Museum of Decorative Arts and hosts exhibitions of contemporary artists, has free admission every day.

6. Where can you experience the local flavor?

Many travelers and locals recommend attending flamenco evenings. You can view the schedule of performances on this website. Tickets should be purchased in advance, at least a week in advance, because the shows are very popular, and seats are already sold out on the day of the performances.

7. Where to try Catalan cuisine?

Let's move from spiritual food to worldly food! Perhaps it’s not worth mentioning that establishments in the tourist center of Barcelona are increasing their prices? They are especially overpriced in cafes and restaurants on the famous pedestrian street Rambla.

Almost every establishment has a so-called “menu del dia” - a menu of the day (like business lunches that are familiar to us). It runs from approximately 13:00 to 15:00 and includes first and second courses (your choice), as well as a drink and dessert. Such a set will cost you only €8-20, depending on the class of the restaurant.