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Easy to Avoid Tourist Traps in Barcelona

Casa Batlló, Modernist building, Barcelona (by Ruggiero Calabrese)

Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and one of the prime examples of a city suffering from overtourism . So should you still visit Barcelona? If you make the conscious effort to connect with the local culture and support real local businesses, you can make a positive impact!

Most people go straight to the tourist hotspots in Barcelona and we think that’s a shame! This does not only add to the problem of overcrowding but also does not really support the local community. To help you avoid some of these tourist traps and spend more time exploring the local culture, we’ll list a few of the most touristy places in the city. They’re really easy to avoid!

La Rambla Barcelona (by Jorge Fernández Salas)

There are so many things wrong with La Rambla that it confuses us that it still gets recommended as a must-see. It’s one of the biggest tourist traps you’ll ever come across. Your chances of becoming a victim of pickpockets are considerable, you’ll find more cheap souvenir spots than anything else and if it’s not a souvenir shop it will probably be an overpriced restaurant selling mediocre food. If you really want to know what the street is all about, note that it’s one of Barcelona’s main roads. You’ll cross it eventually during your travels whether you want it or not.

Flamenco dansers in the street (by Espanje!)

Flamenco is not part of Catalan culture.  It originates from Andalusia. Thus, all the advertisements for “traditional Flamenco shows” are selling you lies. They overprice these shows massively to make them look like something special. We advise you to head to Andalusia if you want to see flamenco but stick to Catalan Culture in Barcelona. If you’re looking for a relaxing night out maybe check some local cinemas instead.

Fresh Paella (by Jay Wennington)

Finding good paella has almost become hard in Barcelona. The actual good restaurants have to compete with the massive amount of tourist restaurants selling frozen paella at step prices. So to ensure you eat some good paella follow these tips: you’ll avoid any place with an English menu out front, especially if they have pictures. Don’t eat in tourist areas. Follow local advice! They will know where to find the good stuff. Our spotter Bill can recommend Morryssom’s for great paella and tapas!

Barceloneta beach

Crowded Barcelona beach (By Frederico Giampieri)

It’s really nice that Barcelona is a destination where you can combine a city escape with some relaxing by the sea. However, the beaches right by the city are not the best places to relax. Locals usually head out to beaches a bit further away from the city. Ideal for a day trip! The Costa Brava can be reached easily by bus or car! If you want to stay closer to the city Nova Mar beach tends to be calmer as well.

Park Güell, Barcelona, Spain (by Daniel Corneschi)

First of all, make note that for the most part, Parc Guell is just a regular park. Just a small part of the park displays the Gaudi monuments and famous balcony. It’s only for that part that you have to pay. But what if we tell you that you can even see those parts for free?  Simply show up a little before or after opening hours and discover the place on your own without the crowds!

La Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain (by Ken Cheung)

Is it iconic? Yes. Does it have amazing architecture? Yes! Is it worth the steep price tag and the crowds? Not really. If you have come to Barcelona for modernist architecture, you may still want to visit La Sagrada Familia, however, if you just want to visit because it’s a must-see, skip it. There is so much beautiful architecture in the city, just walking around is enough! Check out this hidden Gaudi gem for example!

Tapas (by OAD)

Tapas originated in Andalusia. The idea is that you get a free snack to accompany your drink. This tradition is still going strong in Andalusia. In Barcelona however, it’s slowly dying off. In most places, you will have to pay for your tapas. That being said, you should only pay for nice tapas. If you see just pieces of meat or cheese for sale, walk the other way, you have found a tourist trap.

Glasses of sangria (by Travelgirls.nl)

Sangria is a very popular drink, among tourists. Locals know that sangria is often made from cheap wine and frozen fruit, which is not really worth the money, is it? Instead, check out for example Quimet i Quimet for an authentic cava local cava experience. Or go for vermouth (“vermut”) – our locals have spotted some great local vermouth bars in Barcelona .

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Somto Seeks

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10 Things NOT To Do in Barcelona: Tourist Mistakes To Avoid

January 18, 2019 By Somto Ugwueze 3 Comments

Last updated on May 1, 2023

As a first time visitor to Barcelona (or even a returning visitor), it can be easy to fall for tourist traps, spend on unnecessary things, or have unrealistic expectations. This post is about 10 things not to do in Barcelona . Read this guide to find out important things to know before going to Barcelona. Knowing what to expect and what to avoid will save you time, money, energy and even potential embarrassment. In no particular order, here are the biggest no-nos for tourists visiting Barcelona.

This post contains affiliate links as explained in my disclosure policy

First things first, let’s make sure you have skip-the-line-access to Barcelona’s famous landmarks and attractions and a ticket for the best tours and activities. You’ll find them all through my go-to tour operator, Get Your Guide. I’ve been going on Get Your Guide tours around the world since 2018. They are seriously the most educational and engaging tours out there, with the friendliest tour guides and the easiest signup process. Check out my list of mistakes to avoid in Barcelona. Then browse the Barcelona city guide below to find the best experiences in Barcelona that you will certainly not regret.

What Not To Do in Barcelona: Top 10 Tourist Fails To Avoid

1. expect people to speak english.

You’ll find a decent number of English speakers in the city center because Barcelona is an international city with expats. There are also plenty of students and young people who have learned English. That said, don’t expect the average person walking down the street to speak English. Maybe 8 out of 10 of the locals you’ll encounter will only speak Spanish and/or Catalan. The taxi drivers and bus drivers normally don’t speak any English.

You’d be surprised at how many tourists are shocked that Spaniards don’t speak English! Don’t be that tourist. Even better, learn some survival Spanish before you go. Here’s a quick breakdown of some essential Spanish phrases to memorize before your trip.

Useful Spanish Phrases

Hablas Inglés? – Do you speak English? Donde esta el baño (ban-yo)/ Donde están los aseos? – Where is the bathroom? Donde esta el metro mas cercano? – Where is the closest metro? Me puedes ayudar, por favor? – Can you help me, please? Donde puedo coger (co-hair) taxi? – Where can I find a taxi? Me gustaría – I would like… Como llego a [insert destination]? – How do I get to [insert destination]? Me llamo (yah-mo) [Insert name] – My name is [insert name] Vengo de [insert country] – I am from [insert country] (Tip: the V in Spanish is pronounced like a B so vengo sounds like bengo) Cuanto cuesta?/Cuanto vale? – How much is it? No hablo (ah-blo) español – I don’t speak Spanish

2. Leave a tip

Tipping is generally not part of the culture in Spain. In fact, leaving a tip at a restaurant may even cause some confusion, especially if you go to a hole-in-the-wall restaurant. The waiters may think you forgot your money and run after you! If the service is great, a simple muchisimas gracias will do. Or you could write a glowing Yelp review. If you want to leave a tip, be my guest but don’t feel obligated to do so. The same goes for taxis and other service-based businesses. The exception would be if you go to a high-end establishment, like a Michelin-star restaurant. In that case, it’s customary to leave a tip of around 10%

Related: The Ultimate Barcelona Travel Guide: What To Do, See, and Eat

3. Pay for basic tapas

The original idea behind tapas is that when you order a drink, you get algo de picar (something to snack on) for FREE! Tapas originated in Andalucia, where the free tapas tradition is still strong. Order a caña (a glass of beer) or any beverage, and the bar will provide you as many tapas as your heart desires. This old-fashioned tapas culture is one of the reasons why I believe that Granada is the best city to visit in Spain .

Barcelona is different. This city is a mecca for tourism so the bars take advantage of that. They charge unsuspecting tourists for basic tapas – I mean outrageous fees just a slice of bread and ham that was purchased from the grocery down the street. Let me be clear: the only tapas you should pay for are the gourmet kind with the finest ingredients. If you go to a bar and there are tapas for sale on display – like the plain ones with bread and a slice of cheese on top – turn around and leave. Instead of paying for basic tapas, go on a guided wine and tapas tour that will take you to authentic tapas bars and restaurants. These tours are organized by local foodies who know the best places to eat like the back of their hand. Once you’ve sampled the best cuisine in the city, you might choose to go back to those places or ask for suggestions for other eateries that are authentic.

Want to try the best tapas that Barcelona has to offer? Here are three excellent food tours to choose from! You can’t go wrong with any of them. Enjoy!

4. Pay for a walking tour

Something else not to pay for in Barcelona is a walking tour. You can either design your own self-guided walking tour or join a free group tour. I did a 2-hour walking tour with Free Walking Tours Barcelona and wouldn’t recommend it. The tour was just a snoozefest; the only thing I remember is seeing filming locations for the movie, Vicky Christina Barcelona .

You could try Sandeman’s walking tour in Barcelona . I’ve done their walking tours in Edinburgh and Prague and had great experiences. I figure their Barcelona tour would be just as good. I would only pay for walking tours of historic buildings, like the Gaudi architecture. Pub crawls and guided food tours are also worth the money.

5. Go to a Flamenco show

Flamenco is another tradition from Andalucía. As such, you’ll see the most authentic Flamenco shows in the region. Any city or town in Andalucía will do. Granada, Sevilla, Almeria, Cordoba, Cadiz, and Malaga are great choices for first-time visitors. There are also some breathtaking small towns like Vejer de La Frontera, Ronda, and Jaen.

The very first Flamenco show I ever saw was in a cave in the Sacromonte neighborhood of Granada, home to the gitano s (gypsies). Even though I went to that show back in 2012, I still remember those powerful performances vividly. I was so overcome with awe and emotion! That dance set the bar so high that I haven’t bothered going to a Flamenco show anywhere outside of Andalucía. It takes a certain skill and gravitas to pull off a brilliant Flamenco performance.

Barcelona is home to famous Flamenco venues like Tablao de Carmen  so I could definitely be wrong, although some of the reviews could suggest otherwise. That said, the Flamenco experience isn’t just about the dance itself – it’s about the atmosphere, people, passion, and soul. That’s why I always recommend you see your first Flamenco show in Andalucía, where they live and breathe Flamenco! You can even watch Flamenco dancers performing on the streets for free.

6. Show up at La Sagrada Familia without a ticket

La Sagrada Familia is the most visited attraction in Barcelona. As such, the ticket lines can wrap around the block. Don’t show up at the entrance without a ticket. I did that and had to go home; the staff told me that tickets now have to be purchased online. What’s the best way to experience La Sagrada Familia? Book a guided tour of La Sagrada Familia with skip-the-line access to tour the 19th century church that still hasn’t been completed. You can also learn the history, take in all the enchanting details, and appreciate the church more when you have a live guide explaining what you’re looking at.

For me, the most impressive part of La Sagrada Familia was the interior, which is built in Gothic and modern styles. That said, there’s an equally impressive exterior with towers and facades. The exterior is a work of art in itself. The best way to experience both the interior and exterior of La Sagrada Familia is through  a guided tour with access to the Nativity Tower . You can explore the interior and the towers higher up the building while listening to an audio guide. This gives you the best of both worlds. I would book a ticket online in advance whether or not you decide to see just the interior of the church or both the interior and the exterior. To plan your visit, also check out the  5 mistakes to avoid when visiting La Sagrada Familia.

Ready to experience the magnificence of La Sagrada Familia?

Experience the best of La Sagrada Familia without waiting in line by booking one of these highly-rated, guided tours by Get Your Guide . During my last visit to Barcelona, I did the tour with Nativity Tower access, and it was so much better than simply exploring the inside. No matter which tour you choose, the most important thing is that you don’t show up at La Sagrada Familia without a ticket!

7. Buy anything on Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is the main pedestrian street in Barcelona. It runs through a few neighborhoods, but the busiest part is at the city center. You’ll want to avoid buying food or souvenirs on this street, especially in the area between the Port of Barcelona and La Boqueria Market. You’ll thank me later. First, everything is overpriced. Again, the busy city center is filled with tourist traps and savvy business people going after those tourist dollars. Secondly, the food may not be authentic because some restaurants water it down for tourists.  There’s really no point in paying for subpar, overpriced food on Las Ramblas. The exception would be La Boqueria, which is overpriced but still quite good (the seafood to be exact.) Your best bet as always is to ask some locals about their favorite restaurants.

Instead of buying overpriced paella on Las Ramblas, take a cooking class and learn how to make it yourself from some of Barcelona’s master chefs . Choose one of these highly-rated cooking classes from my go-to travel operator, Get You Guide, and get ready for a seriously delicious experience!

8. Order paella that’s advertised with stock photos

There’s a rule of thumb for buying paella in Barcelona, or anywhere in Spain for that matter. If a restaurant advertises its paella with stock photos, run as far away as possible! Stock photos equal watered-down paella geared toward tourists. Plenty of restaurants use the exact same stock photos to advertise their paella, too. Where to get the best paella? At a mom and pop restaurant – small, family-owned restaurants serve better paella than restaurants you’ll find in plazas or malls. They cook your paella to order while the tourist trap restaurants will warm up paella that has been sitting out. The best way to find out what restaurants to go to for paella or any dish? Ask the receptionist at your hotel, the taxi driver, the janitor, or any of the locals you strike up a conversation with. Better yet, take this guided paella cooking class with my Get Your Guide, my favorite tour operator, and also get a tour of La Boqueria Market.

9. Use taxis to get around

Wondering how to get around Barcelona? One way NOT to do so is by hailing a taxi. Barcelona is a walkable city so you can explore most of the attractions by foot, especially around the city center. For longer distances, you have a few public transportation options: metro, bus, train, and tram. There are so many affordable public transportation options that it doesn’t make sense to take a cab. Unless you stay out until 3 am, there’s really no need to pay for a taxi. That said, taxis here are said to be among the cheapest in Europe so taking them won’t do too much damage to your wallet. 

10. Spend time at La Barceloneta Beach

Barcelona has a couple of beaches, but they’re nothing to write home about. By Spanish standards, they are actually subpar. Nearby Costa Brava is a much better destination for beautiful, white sand beaches. Better yet head to one or more of these 10 most beautiful beaches in Spain . 

La Barceloneta is Barcelona’s main beach and the closest one to the city center. That’s why it’s normally filled to the brim – not only with tourists but also with trash. Heaps of garbage everywhere! This ‘beach’ is also manmade – it was created when Barcelona hosted the Olympics in 1992. If you’re looking for a relaxing break from the city, I don’t recommend La Barceloneta at all. Nova Icaria Beach, a bit farther from the city center, is a much better option. You may want to consider a day trip to other incredible destinations in Catalunya .

Travel Essentials I Can’t Live Without 

CabinZero Backpack

The CabinZero 36L Backpack – this trusty backpack has been my go-to luggage for both domestic and international trips since 2018. I’ve used dozens of backpacks over the years and keep coming back to this one. I almost never check in luggage so I need a carry-on bag that is spacious, sturdy, and comfortable, with a laptop compartment. The Cabin Zero 36 L fits the bill. The size makes it small enough for a weekend getaway and big enough for a month of backpacking in Europe. The bag also comes with a tracker in case it gets lost. How convenient! Check out my complete review of the backpack.

Travelwifi Portable Hotspot Device

Travel WiFI Pocket WIFI Device – With portable WiFi, you can say goodbye to ridiculous roaming charges and SIM cards for good. I’ve been using the Travel WiFi Portable Hotspot device for years and love the peace of mind it gives me. The device provides 3G-4G WiFi for at least 6 hours and works in 100+ countries. In my experience, it lasts 9 hours. It also works in a variety of landscapes and terrains. I even filmed a Facebook Live from a boat in the Atlantic Ocean using my device. I can also use Google Maps, request an Uber, call my mom, and do tons of other things I couldn’t do before. Quick tip: turn off the device when you’re not using it so that the battery can last longer.

Booking.com Booking.com – Booking.com is my go-to website for booking discounted accommodations around the world.  What I love most about Booking.com is the variety of properties you can find, from luxury apartments to treehouses to university housing. It’s hard to beat the insanely low prices. The website also has a flexible cancellation policy, which is great if things come up or you change your mind.

Continue reading:

101 Super Fun Things To Do in Barcelona (on a Budget)

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Somto Ugwueze

Hi! I'm Somto. Two years ago, I stopped making excuses, ditched my indecisive friends, and started booking flights. Today, I'm a full-time solo traveler on a mission to inspire young women to seek new adventures.

@somtoseeks

Reader Interactions

January 23, 2020 at 9:44 am

I have been to Barcelona dozens of times and in the warm months I always go to the beach at the end of the overhead tram line. I have never seen it trashy at all. Maybe a few too many offers of a a massage though.

August 11, 2020 at 2:57 am

I am an expat living in Barcelona and I do not recommend not leaving a tip. Unless you are Spanish, speak Spanish without an accent or obviously fallen on hard times it’s just plain rude and tourist areas like Barcelona, Casteldefels and Sitges would of course expect to be tipped.

Also, skipping Barceloneta for me wouldn’t be due to the garbage, as I have never seen any, bit as an unsuspecting tourist you may be a target for the petty thieves.

Other than that this is fairly on the nose!

April 26, 2021 at 11:07 pm

Thanks, George, for sharing your opinion.

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Who Is Somto Seeks?

Hi there, I’m Somtochukwu. Can you try pronouncing that? I've always gone by Somto (Sohm-toe). I'm a child of Nigerian immigrants who decided to pursue her dream of living an extraordinary life. In 2015, I chose faith over fear, packing my bags and moving to Spain with $1,000 in my pocket. This was after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that caused me to develop a giant bald patch in the middle of my scalp. Living in Spain and traveling around Europe for a year changed my life forever, allowing me to discover the freedom of solo travel and the freedom of working from anywhere. Today, I’m a full-time travel writer whose mission is to help you navigate this big, beautiful world with confidence and have those omg-pinch-me-moments you’ll remember for a lifetime.

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50 Things To Avoid in Barcelona (Tourist Dos and Don’ts!)

Barcelona is an amazing city, but just like any other tourist hotspot, it’s got its share of things you might want to avoid. Sure, it’s packed with incredible sights and experiences, but there are some tourist traps and common mistakes that can put a damper on your visit.

I live in Spain and have spent a lot of time in Barcelona, so I promise you I’ve seen firsthand what can trip up visitors (including myself!).

But what exactly should you watch out for in Barcelona? In this article, I’m going to spill the beans on the Barcelona do’s and don’t for things you might want to steer clear of, from overpriced eateries to overhyped attractions and everything in between.

Planning a trip to Barcelona last minute?

If you’re booking your  trip to Barcelona last minute, I’ve got you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

⭐  Most popular sights in Barcelona

• Sagrada Familia – tickets often sell out weeks in advance so get your entry ticket here (or entry tickets AND a guided tour here)
• Park Güell – grab your skip-the-line entry
• Casa Batlló – click here for tickets and audio guide

🌍 Top tours in Barcelona

• Montserrat Tour, Monastery and Winery (great day trip!)
• Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes (incredible night out)
• Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine, and History (all the highlights at once)

🛏️ Top hotels in Barcelona

• Ohla Barcelona (5-star luxury with an amazing rooftop pool)
• Seventy Barcelona (boutique hotel with beautiful décor)
• Àmfores Boutique Guest House (great budget option with superb location)

🚌 Want free public transport while you’re in Barcelona? Check out the Hola Barcelona travel card !

Table of Contents

What you should avoid in Barcelona

1. not paying attention to your things.

Don’t let the city’s charm lull you into a false sense of security. Unfortunately, Barcelona may be a big, beautiful, bustling city, but it’s also got a notable pickpocketing problem, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation. 

For this reason, one of the biggest Barcelona travel tips I can give you is to always keep your belongings close and in your line of sight. This includes things like you shouldn’t hang your bag behind your chair at restaurants. Instead, keep it in your lap or between your feet. 

I know it can be tough to stay vigilant throughout an entire holiday, but it’s also a real bummer to spend your vacation replacing credit cards.

2. Thinking that it’s Not Worth Going Inside Sagrada Familia

Okay, I get it, the outside of the Sagrada Familia is jaw-droppingly gorgeous. But at the same time, the inside is a symphony of color and light that’s like nothing else in the world. It’s like stepping inside a rainbow crafted by Gaudi himself. 

So don’t just admire this architectural masterpiece from the outside, explore its interior. Believe me, it’s an unforgettable sight that’s worth every Euro of the entrance fee.

PRO TIP: The Sagrada Familia is easily the most visited tourist site in Barcelona and tickets frequently sell out weeks ahead of time.

To make sure you don’t miss out, you need to book your tickets for the Sagrada Familia well in advance of your visit. As once they’re gone, they’re gone – and seeing inside is a definite must while you’re here.

3. Expecting to Enter the Sagrada Familia Without Buying a Ticket in Advance

Here’s a major rookie mistake! The Sagrada Familia isn’t just another tourist attraction, it’s the most visited monument in Spain. 

For this reason (and I know I just mentioned this, but it’s super important to hammer this home), tickets can sell out fast, especially during the peak tourist season. Buying your tickets for the Sagrada Familia in advance isn’t just recommended, it’s almost mandatory if you want to guarantee your spot. 

Save yourself the disappointment and plan ahead!

4. Eating on La Rambla

Yes, La Rambla is pretty, it’s lively, and it’s teeming with restaurants, but remember, it’s also Tourist Trap Central. The food is often overpriced and underwhelming, appealing more to convenience than authenticity. 

Instead, I highly recommend wandering into the side streets or visiting local markets like La Boqueria or Mercat de la Barceloneta for a true taste of Catalonian cuisine. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

One great thing you can do that involves food and La Rambla also happens to be one of my top recommendations for things to do in Barcelona – specifically, this paella cooking class .

You’ll be taken to La Boqueria market with an expert chef who’ll show you how to pick out the best ingredients.

It’s then time for the main event – a workshop on how to make your very own paella (and sangria!) before getting to enjoy all your hard work! It’s a great way to experience the culinary side of Barcelona.

5. Thinking Everyone Speaks English

While it’s true that many people in the main tourist areas of Barcelona do speak some English, don’t assume this is the case everywhere. Especially once you venture a bit away from the center, English becomes less common, particularly among the older generation. 

But hey, don’t let this discourage you! Embrace it as a chance to practice your Spanish or even pick up a few words of Catalan. It’s all part of the travel experience, right?

6. Thinking You Can See the Whole City in a Day

Barcelona is brimming with culture, architecture, art, and delicious food. Trying to cram everything into a single day isn’t only impossible, but it also robs you of the joy of truly experiencing the city. 

For this reason, give yourself the time to take it easy. Savor each sight, each bite, and each moment. After all, it’s not a race, it’s a journey!

7. Expecting it to be Warm Year-Round

Barcelona isn’t your typical year-round tropical paradise. Winter months from December to February can be quite chilly, with temperatures dipping into single digits (celsius, that is). Remember to pack some warm clothing if you’re planning a Christmas getaway! 

But fret not, even with the cooler temperatures, the city has a charm that’s entirely its own in the winter. You may even find yourself sipping on a steamy cup of Spanish hot chocolate, bundled up in a cozy corner of a Catalan café, which is an experience in itself!

8. Wearing New Shoes or Heels When Sightseeing

Now, I don’t want to sound like your mom, but please, please, please wear comfortable shoes. You see, Barcelona’s streets were not made for stilettos or brand new shoes that give you blisters. 

Think cobblestone streets, park paths, and oh-so-many beautiful things to see that’ll have you on your feet all day. Swap those fashion-forward shoes for a comfortable pair of sneakers. 

Your feet will be up for dancing all night instead of crying out for mercy by the time you get to the end of the day!

What’s your perfect destination for your dream trip to Spain?

Want to discover a city or live your island dreams?

Embrace the food scene or step through the pages of history?

Whatever your travel style, discover the perfect Spanish city to add to your trip here!

9. Only Seeing the Center of Barcelona

The center of Barcelona, with its hustle and bustle, is captivating, but don’t let it be the only thing you see. Try to give yourself time to adventure out to the less-touristy neighborhoods like Gràcia, Poble Sec, and Sant Antoni. 

These areas offer a more local feel with their charming streets, beautiful squares, and small-scale bars and eateries. 

Even better, see if you have time for some day trips, like going to the Montserrat monastery. You can even add a stop at some wineries to really boost the amount of culture you get from your trip.

Remember, sometimes the best memories come from getting a little bit lost. So, grab your map (or not), and let’s go exploring!

10. Leaving your Belongings on the Beach

Ah, Barcelona’s beaches: the sun, the sea, the sand…the potential for petty theft. Sad but true, leaving your stuff unattended on the beach while you dive into the Mediterranean can lead to an unwanted souvenir – a missing wallet or phone. 

When it comes to Barcelona’s dos and don’ts, safety considerations make up much of the list. And on that note: Don’t let the relaxed vibes fool you and do only bring the essentials to the beach.

And here’s a bonus one: do keep your valuables tucked away in your hotel or accommodation.

11. Drinking the tap water straight

Now, don’t get me wrong, the tap water in Barcelona is safe to drink . But in terms of its taste? Pretty terrible, if we’re being honest.

So you might want to consider bringing a water bottle with a filter. I’ve been using a filtered water bottle when I’m on the go here, and it’s been pretty handy. 

Specifically,  I love  this Brita filtered water bottle  when I’m in Barcelona.  It does a solid job of clearing out that less-than-ideal tap water taste, and it’s insulated too, which means your water stays cool. 

Not to mention that it’s BPA-free with a neat built-in straw, which is just icing on the cake!

Of course, bottled water is always there if you need it, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Even though many locals choose to use bottled water, as we should all know by now, it’s not the best for our planet (or your pocket, for that matter).

12. Not Trying Local Tapas Restaurants

Now this would be a gastronomic crime. Skipping the local tapas spots in favor of familiar food chains? Nuh-uh, not on my watch. 

Barcelona’s tapas are a must-try. Each plate is a bite-sized piece of heaven that perfectly encapsulates the rich Spanish cuisine. 

So, venture out (if you’re looking for places to visit in Barcelona at night , there are only about 5,000 tapas bars to choose from…), and let your palate dive into the local flavors. Patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo, pan con tomate – they’re all waiting for you. Bon appétit… or as the locals say, ¡Buen provecho!

13. Wanting to Go See a Bullfight

So, you’ve heard about bullfighting and you’re curious. Well, hold your horses… or rather, bulls! Catalonia, the region where Barcelona is located, actually banned bullfighting back in 2010 (thankfully!), leading the charge in animal rights. 

If you’re looking for authentic Spanish experiences, there are plenty of other cultural activities that are much kinder to our four-legged friends. Why not try a flamenco show, or better yet, catch a human tower building, known locally as ‘castellers’?

14. Thinking Catalan Culture is the Same as Other Cultures in Spain

Assuming that Catalan culture is just another Spanish regional culture is like saying all pizza tastes the same. Nope, sorry. 

Catalonia has its own rich heritage, traditions, and even its own language, Catalan. It’s a vibrant and unique mix of Mediterranean influences with a twist of its own. 

So when in Barcelona, take the opportunity to learn about this diverse culture. Trust me, it’s worth it!

15. Eating Paella for Dinner

Here’s a little insider tip for you: Spaniards eat paella for lunch. If you see a restaurant advertising paella for dinner, red flags should be waving. It’s a typical tourist trap! 

Plus, eating a heavy dish like paella late in the evening might leave you feeling stuffed and not at all in the mood to keep the party going.

Instead, savor this delicious Spanish rice dish the local way – in the middle of the day with a glass of refreshing wine!

FYI: Instead of just eating a paella, why not try out this paella cooking class while you’re in Barcelona – it’s easily one of my favorite things to recommend to people to do while they’re here!

You’ll start off by being taken to La Boqueria market with an expert chef. Then, after being shown around the market and how to pick out the best ingredients, you’ll then be taken for the main event – a workshop on how to make your very own paella (and sangria!) before getting to enjoy all your hard work!

16. Renting an Airbnb

Renting an Airbnb can seem like a convenient option, but it’s worth considering the impact on local communities. In Barcelona, the proliferation of short-term rentals has led to rising rents for locals. 

Besides, staying in a hotel, a guesthouse, or a bed & breakfast can offer you the same comforts, often in prime locations, and you’re contributing to the local economy. 

For this reason, before clicking ‘book now’ on that apartment, consider your alternatives.

17. Saying that as French Wine is (Generally) More Expensive, it Must be Better

Oh là là! Just because French wine is often pricier doesn’t automatically make it superior. 

In reality, Spanish wine is a world-class vino contender that gives you serious bang for your buck. From the robust Riojas to the crisp Cavas, Spanish wine offers a wonderful variety at incredibly reasonable prices. 

So, when in Barcelona, get ready to say “Salud!” with a delightful local pour.

(And you could even take this a step further by doing a tasting of Catalan and Spanish wines in the heart of Barcelona . Set in the Old Town, you’ll get to sample a selection from various local wine regions, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the best of Spanish wine.

18. Calling Catalan a Dialect

When it comes to what not to say in Barcelona, calling Catalan a ‘dialect’ is a big no-no. Catalan is actually a language in its own right, distinct from Spanish, with its own grammar and vocabulary. 

It’s the co-official language of Catalonia alongside Spanish and is spoken with pride by the locals. When in Barcelona, showing respect for the local language will earn you brownie points. 

And if you can learn a few phrases in Catalan, even better. The locals will appreciate the effort, promise!

19. Going to Lunch at 12pm or Dinner at 6pm

Spanish meal times are a world of their own. If you’re an early bird who loves lunch at noon or dinner at 6 pm, you’re in for a culture shock. 

Lunchtime in Barcelona is typically around 2 pm, and dinner can often start as late as 10 pm (yes, you read that right!). This is why it’s a good idea to adjust your stomach clock and enjoy the leisurely pace of Spanish dining – and maybe have some tapas to not starve while you’re waiting for dinner. 

Remember, good things come to those who wait!

20. Calling Cava a Lesser Version of Champagne

Referring to cava as ‘budget champagne’ is like calling Picasso a doodler. Big mistake! 

Cava is Spain’s sparkling wine superstar and is made using the traditional method, the same as Champagne. It’s crisp, it’s bubbly, and it holds its own on the world stage. 

So put aside your preconceptions, raise a glass of this local fizz, and celebrate the simple joy of being in Barcelona. Salud!

21. Going to Barceloneta for a Beach Day

Sure, Barceloneta beach is famous, but with fame comes crowds, and sometimes, a little unwanted attention from beach vendors. It can also be quite dirty, with people very kindly leaving things like cigarette butts around for you to stand on – charming.

For a more relaxed beach day, consider venturing further afield. Nova Icaria, Bogatell, or even beaches in nearby towns like Sitges and Castelldefels offer a much more laid-back vibe. 

Pack your beach towel, sunscreen, and embark on a little coastal adventure. Your perfect beach day awaits!

22. Expecting to Go Shopping on Sunday

Planning a shopping spree on a Sunday in Barcelona? Not so fast! Most shops in the city keep their shutters down on Sundays, sticking to traditional Spanish trading hours. 

Don’t despair, though! Use your Sundays to explore the myriad museums, beautiful parks, or find a sunny terrace to sip on some sangria (or something else, which I’ll get to in a moment…). Shopping can wait until Monday.

23. Not Buying a Ticket to Park Guell in Advance

Hoping to just turn up at Park Guell ? I hate to break it to you, but without an advance ticket, you’ll be left admiring Gaudí’s masterpiece from the outside. 

This enchanting park is a top tourist attraction and tickets often sell out days in advance. Trust me, planning ahead and securing your ticket online will save you from potential disappointment. 

Besides, who wants to stand in a line when you could be enjoying panoramic views of Barcelona?

FYI: If you’re looking to visit both the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell and you’re short on time, you can get skip-the-line entry and a tour of both sights in one day right here .

24. Buying Anything on La Rambla

La Rambla might be a vibrant, lively street to stroll down, but when it comes to shopping, it’s wise to hold on to your euros. From souvenirs to sangria, prices on La Rambla are inflated to tourist-levels. 

For authentic local crafts and better price tags, wander off the beaten path into the Gothic Quarter or El Raval. 

Remember, the best souvenirs are the ones that won’t have you checking your bank balance with dread!

25. Leaving a Tip

North American visitors, I’m talking to you! Tipping in Barcelona is quite different from back home. 

While it’s not unheard of to leave a tip, it’s usually a couple of euros at most, and often, locals won’t leave a tip at all. For this reason, don’t feel obliged to leave 15-20% of your bill. 

If the service was outstanding and you’re feeling generous, a couple of euros will show your appreciation just fine. When in Rome, right? Or should I say, when in Barcelona!

26. Thinking that Flamenco is Native to Barcelona

Picture Spain, and you might imagine flamenco dancers twirling in their colorful dresses. However, thinking flamenco is native to Barcelona is like saying deep-dish pizza comes from New York. 

Flamenco actually originates from the southern region of Andalusia. While you can find flamenco shows in Barcelona, many of them are more for tourists, so it’s good to pick and choose just which one you go to so as to make sure that you’re not wasting your flamenco experience on one that doesn’t meet the mark.

For me, the best flamenco show out there for visitors to the city is this Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes . It’s truly an incredible night out (and the fact you get dinner there as well is icing on the cake!)

27. Going Clubbing at 10pm

Barcelona’s nightlife is legendary, but if you’re thinking of hitting the clubs at 10pm, you’ll probably find yourself partying with the cleaning staff. 

Things start late here, my night owls. Most locals won’t start thinking about clubbing until after midnight, with the party going into the early hours of the morning. 

Take the time to fuel up on tapas, take a power nap if you need to, and then get ready to dance the night away… just a little later than you might be used to!

28. Going to Dinner Without a Reservation

Just popping into a popular restaurant for dinner? Not so fast! 

Many of Barcelona’s most sought-after spots require a reservation, especially for dinner. Don’t let your stomach lead you to a “Sorry, we’re fully booked” sign. 

Do a little homework, book a table in advance, and enjoy a hassle-free dining experience. Your taste buds (and your travel companions) will thank you for it!

29. Not Giving Yourself Enough Time to Explore the Culture and Architecture

If you’re planning to dash through Barcelona in a day or two, you’re doing it wrong, amigos! This city deserves more than a whistle-stop tour. 

Between the jaw-dropping architecture, the mouthwatering food scene, the vibrant street life, and the rich cultural experiences, there’s a lot to take in. 

This is why I always recommend that you  give yourself plenty of time to immerse in the local culture and explore the city’s architectural wonders, instead of dashing from place to place. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

30. Being Tricked by Thieves Pretending to Show You a Football (Soccer) Move

While Barcelona is famous for its football prowess, not everyone showing you a fancy football move is a budding Messi. In fact, some are opportunistic thieves using this trick to distract tourists while they swipe your wallet. 

So keep your guard up. Enjoy the local football culture, but don’t let a trick play leave you on the losing team. 

Remember, in this beautiful city, it’s always best to keep your eye on the ball… and your belongings!

31. Treating the City Center as an Extension of the Beach

Just because Barcelona has a beach, doesn’t mean you can saunter around the city center in your flip flops and swimwear. Remember, this isn’t a seaside resort; it’s a bustling, cosmopolitan city. 

Locals usually reserve beachwear for the beach, so even though it might be warm, when you’re in the city, dress like you’re in the city. 

And remember, when it comes to how not to look like a tourist in Barcelona, flip-flops are a big no-no unless you’re on the sand. Take it from me, your feet will thank you after a day of sightseeing!

32. Taking Taxis Everywhere

Taxis might seem convenient, but your wallet will feel the pinch if you use them for every journey in Barcelona. Thankfully, the city has a fantastic public transport network, with metros, buses, and trams that are both affordable and efficient. 

Plus, you get to travel like a local! So, grab a T-casual ticket or a Hola BCN card , and explore the city the smart way. 

You’ll save money and experience a slice of local life. It’s a win-win!

33. Getting Confused When Someone Speaks Catalan

Barcelona is in Catalonia, and the region has its own language – Catalan. Don’t be surprised if you hear it around you! 

While most people also speak Spanish, don’t let the Catalan language catch you off guard. And remember, it’s not a sign of rudeness if someone speaks Catalan – it’s just their native tongue and what they’re probably used to hearing.

Similarly, no one will take offense if you reply to “bon dia” with a “buenos dias” (so they know to switch) or ask them to repeat something in Spanish (if you speak it). This applies to everyone, but especially when it’s clear you’re a foreigner.

Whether you’re trying to decipher a menu or understand directions, take it in stride. When in Barcelona, do as the Catalans do!

34. Visiting Without Learning a Few Basic Spanish or Catalan Phrases

Stepping foot in Barcelona without knowing a few basic phrases in Spanish or Catalan is like going to a party without bringing a bottle. It’s not compulsory, but it’s a nice gesture! 

A little effort can go a long way in endearing you to the locals. Spanish phrases like “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), and “Por favor” (Please) are a good start. 

Trust me, your attempts to speak the local language, however clumsy, will be appreciated!

35. Withdrawing a Lot of Euros and Carrying Cash

While it might seem wise to have plenty of euros on hand, carrying a wad of cash is a risk you don’t need to take in Barcelona. Most places accept credit and debit cards, and ATMs are plentiful. 

I mentioned before how one major thing to be careful of in Barcelona is pickpockets. Well, carrying piles of cash is one good way to do the exact opposite of that.

Instead, stick to withdrawing smaller amounts and using cards whenever possible. After all, the only surprise you want on your vacation is finding that hidden tapas bar, not discovering your cash has mysteriously vanished!

36. Walking Around Alone at Night

While Barcelona is generally safe, it’s always wise to take precautions, especially when walking around alone at night. Stick to well-lit areas, stay aware of your surroundings, and don’t wander into unfamiliar neighborhoods. 

Like in any big city, opportunistic petty crimes can occur. If you’re out late, consider taking a taxi or using public transport to get back to your accommodation. 

Remember, a little caution can go a long way in ensuring a memorable (for all the right reasons) trip!

37. Expecting Paella in Every Restaurant

Visiting Spain and looking forward to sinking your fork into a mouthwatering plate of paella? Well, you might want to adjust your expectations in Barcelona. 

Contrary to popular belief, paella isn’t a staple dish here—it’s actually from Valencia. While you can certainly find it in some restaurants, many places, including those that serve more traditional Catalan food, won’t have it on the menu. 

But this shouldn’t be seen as a bad thing. Instead, imagine all the other food you’re about to discover that you’ve never heard of!

38. Mistaking Girona or Reus for Barcelona Airport

If you’re a fan of budget airlines like RyanAir, be aware! Some flights to “Barcelona” may actually land at Girona or Reus airports, which are quite a distance from the city. 

They might be marketed as Barcelona airports, but they’re about an hour away. Make sure to check your arrival airport before booking to avoid an unexpected road trip upon landing. 

You don’t want to start your Barcelona adventure with a surprise tour of Catalonia’s highways!

39. Taking Photos of the Human Statues on La Rambla Without Paying

Those human statues along La Rambla aren’t just there for your amusement – they’re performers earning their living. While it might be tempting to snap a quick photo as you pass by, it’s good etiquette to drop a coin or two in their pot first. 

After all, they’re providing a unique photo op for your vacation album! It’s a small price to pay for a fun memory and a cool Instagram post. Kindness is cheap but goes a long way!

40. Thinking You Fully Understand the Catalan Independence Movement

So, you’ve read a couple of articles about the Catalan independence movement and think you’ve got it all figured out? Think again! 

This is a complex, deeply emotional issue that has its roots in centuries of history and cultural identity. It’s not something that can be summed up in a few soundbites or headlines. 

While it’s great to be informed, keep an open mind and don’t make assumptions. Barcelona is a city full of diverse perspectives, and that’s part of its charm!

41. Expressing Strong Opinions About the Catalan Independence Movement

On that note, expressing strong opinions about the Catalan independence movement can be a risky move, especially if you’re a visitor. Opinions on this topic vary widely among locals, and discussions can get heated. 

It’s best to listen and learn from different viewpoints rather than weighing in with a hard stance. Much like when you’re anywhere else in the world, to be polite in Barcelona, you should really try hard to steer clear of political debates. 

42. Paying for an Expensive Hotel Breakfast

If your hotel breakfast comes with a hefty price tag, you might want to explore other options. Barcelona is brimming with charming cafés that offer delicious breakfasts at great prices. 

Why not start your day with a café con leche, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a scrumptious pa amb tomàquet at a local café? Not only will you save some euros, but you’ll also experience a bit of everyday life in Barcelona. 

Now, that’s what I call a good morning!

43. Calling Barcelona “Barça”

Pop quiz! Do you know what “Barça” refers to? 

If you said Barcelona, it’s time to flip your flashcards. “Barça” is actually shorthand for FC Barcelona, the city’s world-renowned football club. 

Unless you’re discussing Messi’s magical footwork or that incredible Champions League win, stick to saying “Barcelona”. After all, this is a city with so much more than football – it’s got art, architecture, food, beaches, mountains… need I go on?

44. Ordering Sangria

Alright, truth time. There’s nothing wrong with ordering a pitcher of sangria to share with your friends – it’s a fun, fruity drink that screams “holiday!” 

But if you want to drink like a local, ask for a “tinto de verano”. It’s similar to sangria (red wine and a fizzy lemon drink) but lighter, and it’s what you’ll see most Catalans sipping on a hot summer day. 

So next time you’re in a Barcelona bar, why not give it a try? It’s a one-way ticket to refreshmentville!

45. Calling Chorizo a “Sausage”

I get it, “chorizo” does kinda look like a sausage. But when it comes to what not to say in Barcelona, calling it one is like calling a Ferrari just a car. 

Chorizo is a world of its own, packed with flavors of smoked paprika, garlic, and a hint of heat. It’s a staple in Spanish cuisine and absolutely deserving of its proper name. 

Let’s give chorizo the respect it deserves, and remember, if you’re lucky enough to bite into a slice, savor every delicious moment!

46. Being Shocked at Some of Their Christmas Traditions

Okay, brace yourself because Catalan Christmas traditions can be… well, let’s say, “unique”. Case in point: the caganer, a little figurine of a man caught in the act of… erm… relieving himself in nativity scenes (if you don’t believe me, check out the examples in the picture below!)

Then there’s the ‘caga tio’, a log that “poops” out presents when kids hit it with a stick. Yes, you read that right. 

But hey, it’s all in good fun, and they make for great souvenirs if you visit Barcelona while the Christmas markets are on. Embrace the tradition, chuckle a bit, and go with the flow…well, whatever that flow might be.

47. Eating at a Fast Food Chain

With all the mouthwatering food available in Barcelona, stepping into a fast-food chain is a culinary sin. This city is a gastronomic playground, with everything from tantalizing tapas to fresh seafood paella at every corner. 

And the best part? It’s all reasonably priced. 

Make sure you ditch the burger and fries, and dig into some patatas bravas, bombas, and pan con tomate instead. Your taste buds will thank you!

48. Eating Anywhere with Stock Photos on Their Menu

A word to the wise: if you see a restaurant with stock photos on their menu, run for the hills! These places are usually designed to lure in tourists with familiar images, but the food often leaves much to be desired. 

Remember, Barcelona is a food lover’s paradise, with countless gems tucked away in narrow alleys and bustling markets. For this reason, avoid the tourist traps, and embark on a culinary adventure that’ll make your Instagram followers drool with envy.

49. Eating Anywhere That Has Someone Standing Out Front Calling You In

Ah, the restaurant hawker. This enthusiastic individual might seem inviting, but trust me, it’s usually a sign that the establishment is more focused on reeling in tourists than cooking up quality meals. 

In Barcelona, the best dining spots often don’t need any extra promotion – they let their delicious dishes do the talking! 

Dodge the restaurant hawker’s persuasive pitch and head for the quieter spots. You might just stumble upon your new favorite meal!

50. Eating Anywhere That Prominently Displays Their English Menu

Now, there’s nothing wrong with a restaurant providing an English menu – after all, not everyone speaks Spanish or Catalan. 

However, when you see an English menu displayed with the subtlety of a Broadway marquee, that’s your cue to walk on by. These are usually the tourist traps. 

The real gems of Barcelona’s food scene may have English menus available, but they won’t shout about it from the rooftops. The line between touristy and authentic can be fine, but your taste buds will know the difference!

What Not to Say in Barcelona?

First off, avoid referring to Catalan as a “dialect.” It’s a language in its own right, and locals take immense pride in it. Secondly, steer clear from expressing strong views on Catalan independence – it’s a sensitive issue, and not all locals will agree with your viewpoint. 

On a less serious note, it’s also safer not to refer to Barcelona as “Barça” – that nickname is reserved for the football team, not the city!

While Barcelonians are generally very welcoming and forgiving towards visitors, they appreciate when tourists make an effort to understand and respect their local customs and culture. To show respect, try to use the local greetings such as “Bon dia” (Good day), “Bona tarda” (Good afternoon) or “Bona nit” (Good night) instead of the Spanish equivalents. 

Also, remember that Barcelona is part of Catalonia, which has its own unique traditions, distinct from other regions in Spain. For this reason, always approach discussions about culture, language, and politics with an open mind and respectful curiosity.

How Not to Look Like a Tourist in Barcelona?

There are a few tell-tale signs that scream “tourist” in Barcelona: walking around with a large map, eating at restaurants on La Rambla, or treating the city center like a beach (i.e., wearing flip flops and beachwear). Wearing athleisure gear also puts a big “tourist” sign above your hard.

To blend in, swap the map for a digital version on your phone, eat at local neighborhood gems, and keep your beachwear for the actual beach.

In terms of attire, Barcelonians tend to dress quite stylishly. So, to fit in, lean more towards smart casual than beach bum. 

Also, locals rarely wear shorts in the city unless it’s scorching hot, and even then, they’re more likely to opt for lightweight trousers or skirts.

Finally, keep in mind that Barcelonians have a late-night culture. If you’re heading out to eat dinner at 6 pm or planning to hit the clubs by 10 pm, you’ll stick out like a sore thumb.

Which Areas to Avoid in Barcelona?

While Barcelona is generally a safe city, it’s wise to be extra cautious in certain areas. The Raval neighborhood, while it has been on the rise in recent years, can be a bit dodgy at night, so keep your wits about you. Similarly, parts of the El Born neighborhood can get sketchy when the sun goes down.

Also, as mentioned before, Las Ramblas is notorious for pickpockets due to the high volume of tourists.

It’s worth noting that “avoid” doesn’t mean “never visit”. Raval and El Born have some amazing sights, eateries, and shops, and Las Ramblas, while touristy, is quite a sight to see. 

As long as you remain aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, and don’t flash valuable items around, you should be able to explore these areas safely.

Also, be mindful of the beaches late at night. Barcelona’s beaches are beautiful, but they can attract a less savory crowd after dark. 

If you’re planning a beach day, try to pack up before sunset, or stick to well-lit, populated areas if you’re enjoying an evening stroll. Safety is all about being aware and alert, so keep your eyes open and enjoy the city to the fullest!

How to Be Polite in Barcelona?

To be polite in Barcelona, start by using basic Spanish or Catalan greetings like “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), and “Por favor” (Please). While locals don’t necessarily expect tourists to speak their languages fluently, a little effort goes a long way!  

Also, remember to respect the local culture and traditions, like not confusing Catalan with Spanish or expecting everyone to speak English.

As in many other cultures, good manners are appreciated in Barcelona. When entering shops, cafes, or restaurants, it’s polite to greet the staff with a simple “hola.” At meal times, wish others “Bon profit!” (Enjoy your meal) before digging in. 

It’s also respectful to wait until everyone has their food before you start eating. Moreover, tipping is not as common in Barcelona as in some other countries, but a small tip for good service is always appreciated.

Is it OK to Speak English in Barcelona?

Absolutely, it’s okay to speak English in Barcelona! Most locals in touristy areas are accustomed to interacting with English-speaking visitors. However, don’t be surprised if some people, particularly outside the city center or the older generation, don’t speak English fluently.

While English is generally understood, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors, trying to learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or even Catalan can enhance your travel experience. 

Locals truly appreciate the effort, and it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city’s linguistic diversity. But remember, if you’re struggling with the language, a smile and good manners transcend all language barriers!

Is Barcelona Friendly for Tourists?

Yes, Barcelona is indeed a friendly city for tourists. Its locals are typically welcoming and patient with visitors, and the city offers a wealth of sights, activities, and experiences that cater to all types of travelers. Plus, Barcelona’s public transport system is easy to navigate, and most key attractions are signposted in English.

Barcelona boasts a mix of captivating architecture, beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife that draw tourists from around the globe. And while it’s a bustling metropolis, it also offers quieter neighborhoods and parks for those seeking a slower pace. 

Like any other city, it has its pros and cons, but overall, Barcelona’s blend of culture, history, and hospitality makes it a fantastic destination for any tourist. Just remember to respect local customs and traditions for a truly enriching experience!

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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5 tourist traps to avoid in Barcelona

Feb 16, 2012

Regina W Bryan

Like any major tourist destination, Barcelona has its share of attractions that promise too much, but deliver too little… while usually draining your budget. These, my friends, are called “tourist traps.” They’re usually easy to spot (just look for crowds of tourists with nary a local in sight), but their allure can still be too great for even the most seasoned traveler.

Here’s my list of five attractions I’d steer clear of in Barcelona. Be strong!

1. La Rambla

You probably should stroll down La Rambla at least once if it’s your first time to the city. Once is enough. La Rambla is a thorn in many a local’s side, and all the junky souvenir shops selling Mexican hats and exorbitant restaurants serving hangover-producing “sangria” make me cringe, to say nothing of all the ladies working it once the sun goes down. (Fellas, they will steal your wallet while feeling you up, you have been warned.)

Stroll it and then avoid it, and by no means stop to play any of the games that are offered by clever con artists on the famous strip.

2. Flamenco and Dinner

We’re not in Andalusia, which means were not in flamenco country. Skip most of the shows you read about on flyers or posters. There are a couple places to see flamenco in Barcelona, and one of them is Jazz Si in El Raval.

Avoid any “flamenco” shows in the center. A great flamenco festival is in Barcelona now through March called De Cajón , and I would recommend any of the shows that are on that ticket. Note that none of them come with dinner.

I don’t know if sangria qualifies a tourist trap per se , but it isn’t anything a local would drink. I’ve never ordered sangria here, apart from the first week I arrived six years ago. That once was enough to know that there is no good reason to drink very cheap wine with even cheaper hard alcohol mixed into it.

However, “cava sangria” is popular in Barcelona and I would recommend trying a glass or a pitcher of it. Unlike traditional sangria, cava sangria is made with white cava or rose cava (sparkling wine), and usually has less fruit in it.

4. Restaurants with lots of pictures of the food posted outside

As a rule I avoid these places with, often times, hideous food photos. If the menu is in 20 languages, I also tend to go somewhere else. Why? Because they are probably catering to a tourist crowd, which means the prices will be a lot higher. Go for the place with the menu in Catalan and Spanish and use your dictionary while saving money.

5. The single transit ticket

This year the price of a single ticket on the metro or bus jumped to €2 from about €1.40. Is this aimed at tourists? I can’t say, but it sure has upset locals. Most of us who take public transport buy a “T10” or “50/30,” which are not as expensive. Get a T10 and avoid paying single tickets. If you’re going to be here for a month, then get the 50/30 which gives you 50 rides in 30 days.

Bonus Tips:

I also want to add on a couple of touristy things that look like traps but that I think are pretty good deals.

The Bus Turístic is one of these. It’s a super way to get your bearings and recover from jet lag.

Bike taxis also seem like tourist traps, but I think they are a nice addition to Barcelona’s transportation options. I have never taken a bike taxi, but believe a ride in one would be an ideal way to see the seashore.

Open your trap!

Wondering about other traps in Barcelona? Just ask in our comments section! Have you given in to any of the traps mentioned here? Tell us about your experience!

Also in our guide: Heading to Barcelona soon? Check out EuroCheapo’s reviews of the city’s best and most affordable hotels, all visited, inspected and reviewed by EuroCheapo’s editors. We assure you, none of our recommended hotels is a tourist trap! Read more in our Barcelona hotel guide .

Search all hotels in Barcelona

About the author.

About the author: Regina W.Bryan is a Barcelona-based freelance writer and photographer. When not eating tapas and exploring Europe, she is tending her balcony veggie garden and practicing Catalan. For more of her thoughts on Spain, check: www.regwb.com and www.thespainscoop.com .

Related Posts

• Is La Rambla a Tourist Trap? 5 tips for strolling like a local
• Visiting Barcelona: 8 misconceptions and myths unmasked
• 10-day Itinerary in Spain: Touring Barcelona, Seville & Madrid, with budget tips
• Barcelona Budget Travel Guide: How to save in the Catalan capital

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5 thoughts on “5 tourist traps to avoid in Barcelona”

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These tips are great, thanks! I plant to visit Madrid and Barcelona in the future and experience it with locals, NOT TOURISTS! I already know spanish and am learning catalan.

I’ve been to Madrid and Barcelona recently. Some extra tips that I’ve picked up.

I love my photography, however it’s best not to advertise you have a bag of expensive camera equipment. I left my distinctive Lowepro camera backpack (or rucksack as we call them in the UK) at home and took an old and very tatty ordinary backpack. I then packed my camera inside a smaller camera case inside the backpack. The zip on the back does make it quite vulnerable and a nimble fingered thief will unzip it discreetly and steal what’s inside. To counter this secure the zip with either a cheap mini padlock or short piece of string tied in a knot. This will prevent all but the most dedicated of thieves who will then look for an easier target. When using the metro or bus if your standing try and position back into a corner or if you can wear it to he front. Never leave it on the floor by your feet, you will either to forget it or just as the metro doors are closing a thief could pick it up and dart out of the sliding doors just they’re closing so you can’t follow. If you have to put it on the floor put one of your legs through the strap.

I used a money belt at all times, all my cards, passport and most of my money secure down the front of my trousers and had just a few Euros and some change in my pockets.

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Uncategorized · February 21, 2019

12 Common Barcelona Tourist Mistakes

Barcelona is to many the ultimate summer destination and I completely understand why, but as any other major holiday destination, it is common for there to be diverse tourist traps spread out at the seemingly most convenient places.

As a first time visitor to Barcelona (or even second or third time) it can be very easy to fall under these tourist traps and overspend your precious euros on food with questionable quality.

Luckily, you don’t have to be an expert in tapas to know that you are not eating what you are paying at certain restaurants. The soggy breads and cold calamari rings are a dead giveaway.

If you want to know some actual recommendations on where to eat in Barcelona , don’t miss out my in-depth post on my top recommendations. As a foodie with high standards, I trust you will find all my recommendations extremely valuable.

This post not only will make sure you avoid eating at the absolute worst places in Barcelona, but will also be your guide towards the 12 things you should absolutely NOT DO when visiting the most famous city of Catalonia.

By reading this post carefully, you will be equipped with everything you need to know in order to enjoy the non-touristy side of Barcelona and actually discover the best ways to travel around this fantastic city.

Freebie: Download my ultimate Barcelona City Guide EBook for FREE and get your hands on even more valuable hacks + tips. Find it at my free travel resource library. 

Table of Contents

In absolutely no particular order, here are 12 common mistakes tourists make when visiting Barcelona

Mistake #1 eating at the ramblas.

If you aren’t aware yet, Las Ramblas is the main pedestrian street in Barcelona and an extremely popular tourist attraction, filled with restaurants and shops.

Because of that, you’ll want to avoid buying food or souvenirs on this street as mostly everything you will find there will be overpriced.

On top of that, the food will most probably not be authentic because some restaurants rely on the fact that tourists only visit once, thus they are not interested in providing anyone with good quality food or service.

Think of an unappealing dry paella with a couple of skinny shrimps on top.

Yea… 

Mistake #2 Not Buying Gaudi’s Attractions in Advance

I’ve said this many times in my post about all the attractions to see in Barcelona, but I find it so important that I will write it as many times as needed: Always keep in mind that Barcelona is a year-round popular destination for everyone in the world so all the attractions in the city are understandably crammed with people trying to get in.

Guysss, don’t forget we are in the 21 st century and that we have the option to buy everything in advance online!! Don’t be a fool and follow the pack of people queuing for hours and hourssss!!

Last time I went to Paris I wanted to go in the Louvre for a second time (to see what’s up with Monalisa again) and when I got there my jaw dropped: There was a 2h+ queue estimate and it was FREEZING that day.

What did I do? I took out my phone, looked for a wifi spot (in a coffee spot just nearby), bought out tickets onlin e and went for a relaxing lunch.

Later in the day when the time for my pre-booked entrance came , I came back to the Louvre entrance and enjoyed an immediate access to the museum.

No queuing, no hustling, not freezing my ass in the bone cutting Parisian winter, and most importantly to me: not wasting two precious hours of my trip in France.

On top of it all, I went to the Louvre with a satisfied tummy after having enjoyed a delicious and relaxed lunch with my mother at a nearby French restaurant (dessert included)!!

All this while everyone else was queuing.

Mistake #3 Visiting Barcelona in August

This goes to everywhere in Europe: August is so damned hot here and paaaacked with people.

Prices raise and all attractions are crammed and burning up with the summer heat.

Do yourself a huge favor and avoid coming to Spain in August at all costs!!!

Mistake # 4 Tanning at Barceloneta Beach

As a good Brazilian, I am obsessed with the beach and I go literally every weekend during summer time . Not surprisingly, many friends who visit me here always seem amazed when I say that I still go to the beach every weekend in Barcelona. To their mind, Barceloneta is a dirty beach filled with weird people and they can’t understand why and how I insist that I love the beach here.

If you are not familiar yet, Barceloneta Beach is Barcelona’s main beach and the closest one to the city center. Naturally, because of that it is packed with people (and trash, mind you) in every possible direction.

Not exactly the paradise scenario you would have in mind, nor even close to a weekend escape to relax from the hectic office life.

If you want to enjoy a day at the beach within the city, I would recommend going a bit more to the left side towards Bogatell beach. It is where locals go (and my personal favorite summer spot). There are less people, the water is clean and it has a great temperature.

Now, if you have time on your agenda , I would recommend taking a quick train and in half an hour you will be outside the city of Barcelona and just like that you will have the opportunity to enjoy other incredible destinations of Catalunya.

Mistake # 5 Underestimating Pickpockets

Look around. EVERYONE is a suspect.

Pickpockets are a common issue in Spain and you’d be surprised at how light their hands actually are. Even myself, after living here for 2 years and thinking I was already wise and experienced, I got myself robbed (once again) during a summer festival here.

It’s extremely annoying and this can really ruin your trip (especially if you depend on your phone for pictures or if you carry your passport with you).

Pro Tip: Make a copy of your passport and leave the original at home. Just in case. 😉

Don’t ever underestimate the pickpockets abilities in Barcelona, or you may end up risking being their next victims.  Always keep an eye on your bags and wallets (especially, but not exclusively, at Las Ramblas – their seemingly favorite playground).

Mistake # 6 Not getting VAT Refund Before Going to the Airport

Did you know that if you do not live in the EU you can get a tax refund out of literally everything you buy while visiting the countries within the EU?

All you have to do is ask for the ‘Tax Refund’ upon buying anything at a store (you will need a copy of your passport).

Accumulate all of them and at the last day of your trip, go to the Tax Refund Office just below Plaza Catalunya. You can get cash given back straight on, or have it deposited into your bank account, depending on your preference.

By doing it before going to the airport, everything will be already stamped and checked and you won’t lose any more of your time in the airport. This is especially valuable if you have an early flight.

Mistake # 7 Not Trying Catalan Food

Barcelona is located in Catalonia and people here are very proud to affirm that they are not Spanish, but Catalans (it is very common to hear a local saying ”Barcelona is not Spain”). Even though foreigners tend to see it as a whole, there are definitely many different aspects to Catalan culture from Spanish (not only the language).

So considering that you are at the heart of Catalonia, be sure to try some Catalan specialties such as Calçots or the Escalivada (grilled tomatoes, peppers and aubergine – the beauty of the dish lies in the use of perfectly ripe vegetables, rich in flavor and just waiting to be devoured.)

Calçots : This is the dish, or rather the ingredient, that has the Catalans going mad each year. Calçots, a type of mild scallion or green onion, are unique to Catalonia.

In the cold winter months of January and February, Catalans get together in country houses, restaurants and around barbecue pits for a calçotada. The calçots are thrown onto the barbecue whole until charred and black, and then served with a garlicky almond and pepper sauce called Romesco

While We Are on the Catalan Topic

PRO TIP ALERT:

It doesn’t hurt to learn some words in Catalan just to show to locals that you are ”aware” of their cultural differences.

Don’t start immediately speaking Spanish when ordering something in a restaurant. Even though 90% of locals speak both fluently, they will appreciate your effort and knowledge on their culture.

I can guarantee that you will get better service and find friendlier people if you throw some Catalan words when approaching a local.

So here are a some essential Catalan words that can take you a looooong way in Barcelona:

• Good Morning – Bon Dia
• Good Afternoon – Bona Tarda
• Good Night – Bona Nit
• Thank you – Gracies or Merci (yes, like in French)
• Please – Si us plau
• Goodbye: Adeo
• Cheers – Salut
• Do you speak English? – Parla angles?
• I am sorry – Ho sento

Want to know a bit more about Catalan culture? I’ve written a post with 3 interesting, yet completely weird, Catalan traditions to look out for. Be prepared to be astonished.

Mistake # 8 Going to a Flamenco Show

By now you are probably more aware that Catalans consider themselves not to be Spanish. Because of that, many of their intrinsic cultural aspects are immensely distinguished. 

Flamenco is a great example of it and it is most definitely NOT part of Catalan culture (actually, Flamenco is in fact another tradition from Andalucía).

For authentic Flamenco shows, you should go to either of these cities: Granada, Seville, Cordoba, Cadiz, and Malaga. They are all great choices for first-time visitors. In fact, there are also some breathtaking small towns like Vejer de La Frontera, Ronda, and Jaen.

Last time I went to Seville I had a chance to watch a free Flamenco show and it took my breath away. You can literally feel the emotions passed on by the dancers, with their anguished facial expressions and passionate hand movements in unison with the Spanish guitarists’ acoustic melodizing the background.

Flamenco is an impactful dance to watch and an authentic show should be high on your Spain bucket list.

Just don’t do it in Barcelona 😉

Recently I was invited to attend a family-owned Flamenco house here in Barcelona. As you may understand, I was of course skeptical for all the aforementioned reasons. But the person who reached out to me was so nice that I decided I would give it a try.

To my mind, either it would be horrible and it would confirm to me that Flamenco in Catalonia should be avoided, or I would have a great (and unexpected) time.

Tablao de Carmen , in fact, is owned by a traditional Catalan family and Carmen Amaya was a great Flamenco dancer at her time (she even performed for the King of Spain at the same venue here in Barcelona).

I was positively surprised with the passion the family has for Flamenco dancing to this day (I swear the owner’s eyes were shining while he told us the story of Carmen Amaya). Furthermore, the show was so amazing that I caught my jaw open several times. Adding the cherry on top of the cake, the food was absolutely delicious!

The result? I liked the experience so much that I went back the next week with my boyfriend, Cris.

Read my full Tablao de Carmen review here .

And as a little gift for my readers, if you are interested in attending a Flamenco show while you are in Barcelona, by applying my code LABELLESOCIETY upon purchasing tickets in their website , you get FREE WELCOME DRINK per person to be enjoyed at their private patio before or after the show!

Mistake # 9 Drinking Sangria

This may come as a shocker to you amigo, but did you know that the locals in Barcelona actually don’t drink Sangria? Surprising, right?

Do it like a local: The popular drinks that Catalans are ordering at the bars are usually Cava and Vermouth (the latter becoming more and more popular). You will easily find many Vermoutherias around the city.

Spanish vermouth is known as vermút rojo, and it’s white wine infused with caramel, cinnamon, and some herbs that give it a red color. Good if you have a sweet tooth (I am not the biggest Vermouth fan, if I can be honest).

 Cava, on the other hand, is the famous Spanish sparkling white wine and it is generally very cheap.

Mistake # 10 Not Paying For the T-10

Transportation in Barcelona is considered very cheap . Even taking a taxi is cheaper than most European countries and because of that tourists use the taxi services abundantly.

However, these costs can add up quickly and further on, Barcelona public transportation works very well.

One thing that you should definitely purchase when visiting is the T-10, which is a metro/bus ticket that costs 11.35 € and gives you 10 metro/bus rides.

Yes, you read it absolutely right: each ride will cost you around 1 € !!!!

You can purchase the T-10 inside any metro station at the ticket machine.

PS – I had some people asking me recently about Uber. Yes, there are Ubers in Barcelona (even though the taxis fight daily to extinguish it).

Mistake # 11 Not Paying the Audio Guide at Sagrada Familia

This mistake is so common that it should be first on the list. At most of Gaudis constructions the audio is included (such as La Pedrera and Casa Battló), but in Sagrada Familia they charge you I believe around 5 euro for the guide, and a lot of people decided that this is a good moment to save money and don’t rent it.

This is such a BIG mistake, especially at the Sagrada Familia. Gaudi’s work is all about intrinsic details and a catered interpretation of the synchronicity between nature and religion. You will most certainly miss valuable details if you do not take the audio guide.

Mark my words: the audio guide at the Sagrada Familia makes the experience 10x better!!  

The Sagrada Familia is so special that I did a whole post about it and pointing out to 9 common mistakes that tourists make when visiting it for the first time.

Mistake # 12 Not Researching Gaudi Before Going to Barcelona

In addition to what was previously mentioned above in item 11, making some basic research on who is Anthony Gaudi and understanding his vision will certainly make an impact to how you appreciate Barcelona’s architectural majesty.

Action Item: Do your homework and read a little bit about who he was and what his work is about. You can thank me later 😉

I’ve been living here since September 2016 and am FULL of valuable tips to give.

DONT’ MISS OUT ANYTHING FROM MY POPULAR BARCELONA SERIES

• Want to know more about Barcelona? Check out the complete city guide here.
• Check out my absolute top recommendations on where to eat in Barcelona after living here for 2+ years.
• 3 interesting, yet extremely WEIRD, Catalan traditions 
• Top Barcelona Activity: Authentic Flamenco at Tablao de Carmen
• 12 Common Barcelona Tourist Mistak es
• 6 Mistakes to Avoid at The Sagrada Familia
• First Time to Spain Guide
• 10 Reasons Why So Many People Visit Barcelona

Planning a trip to Barcelona any time soon? That’s so EXCITING! To help you get started, check out Get Your Guide’s top-rated tours and activities.

Other useful travel resources:.

• World Nomads – The most popular and reliable insurance company, trusted by many travel bloggers (the one I used when I went to Sri Lanka)
• iVisa – Quick and seamless Visa application for any country. Try it out!
• Get Your Guide – For fun tours and attractions tickets – Buy tickets in advance and save money + time!

Leave me a comment below telling me what you like most about Barcelona!

You’ll also love.

November 7, 2022 at 3:57 AM

What hotels are the best to stay for a 3 night stay. Going to use hop on and hop off bus. Also would like the hotel near restaurants and entertainment. Any suggestions. First time to barcelona

November 7, 2022 at 9:18 AM

Hi Jenn, you’ll love Barcelona. A nice and affordable hotel that is well located that I usually recommend to everyone is one called Chic & Basic Lemon.

Yes, I very much recommend taking the hop on, hop off buses. It’s the best way to get around the city. When are you going to Barcelona?

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Home » Barcelona » Barcelona Scams – How to successfully avoid Pickpockets & Tourist Scams

Barcelona Scams – How to successfully avoid Pickpockets & Tourist Scams

Barcelona scams are a crucial concern for anyone planning a successful trip to the Catalan capital. While wondering whether Barcelona is dangerous or not, it’s vital to stay informed about the risks of pickpockets and tourist traps in Barcelona. Having lived here for years, I’m intimately familiar with the various tricks these thieves use.

This article will guide you in avoiding theft and scams in Barcelona, ensuring your experience in this captivating city remains safe and memorable.

What to find out in this post

• 1 In a nutshell: Is Barcelona dangerous?
• 2 General safety instructions and precautions for Barcelona
• 3.1 Pickpockets in Barcelona
• 3.2 Will I be robbed in Barcelona?
• 3.3 Where in the city are you particularly at risk?
• 3.4 Are there violent robberies?
• 3.5 Who are the pickpockets?
• 4 What to do if you have been robbed in Barcelona
• 5.1 The Classic
• 5.2 The Classic + Distraction
• 5.3 Bird dirt – currently one of the most popular variants
• 5.4 The Tourist
• 5.5 The survey
• 5.6 The Tourist and the Police
• 5.7 The Flower
• 5.8 Helpless old man
• 5.9 Restaurant Scam
• 5.10 False Beggars
• 5.11 Alleged Helper on the Highway
• 6.1 Vocabulary list for filling a police report
• 6.2 Why are there so many pickpockets in Barcelona?
• 6.3 Who is the thieves’ target group?
• 7.1 About the AuthorVicki

In a nutshell: Is Barcelona dangerous?

Barcelona is generally no more dangerous than other major tourist cities. Violent attacks are rare in Barcelona. However, as in any metropolis, you should watch out for pickpockets and scammers, especially at tourist hotspots and on public transport.

About the author, Vicki: As someone who proudly calls Barcelona home and has spent years delving into every nook and cranny of this vibrant city, I’m excited to share my favorite spots and insider tips with you. From bustling landmarks to quiet, hidden alleys – Join me as I reveal the best of Barcelona , including those off-the-beaten-track gems that make this city truly unique.

BARCELONA INFO BOX

Where to stay in Barcelona: Hotel Santa Marta (Great hotel in the center near attractions & beach) or W Barcelona (Luxury option directly at the beach)

The most popular activities & tours in Barcelona

Sagrada Familia Ticket – Skip the Line

Camp Nou – Barça Museum und Tour

Barcelona Card – More than 25 Attractions

Park Güell – Skip the Line

La Pedrera – Skip the Line

Getting there: Make sure to check for the best flight deals on Flight comparisons like Skyscanner

Transport: T-Casual Ticket (10-trips-Ticket for € 12.15) or Hola BCN Day Ticket

Want to rent a car? You can find great deals on RentalCars . It gets cheaper from El Prat Airport.

Barcelona Must-Have: Practical Spanish Travel Dictionary or Catalan Travel Dictionary and Barcelona-Guide

General safety instructions and precautions for Barcelona

• Really Important: You should never let your belongings out of sight.
• You should try to show your valuables as little as possible , so leave your laptop inside your bag and your expensive jewelry at home.
• If you are approached on the street, do not unquestioningly trust anyone in the first place.
• Learn the local police numbers before arrival: 112 or 092 .
• Have a bag/backpack that can not be opened without your knowledge , e.g., a theft-proof backpack.
• Bring as few valuables as possible with you.
• Take only as much money with you as you need for the day .
• Make copies of your passport/ ID card or other important documents and keep them in different locations.
• Try to appear self-confident because if you look lost, pickpockets might get attracted.
• Do not leave any valuables on the beach when you go to have a swim.
• Be sure to get good travel insurance before your trip – Axa Insurance also insures you against thefts while traveling.

Security in Barcelona

Pickpockets in Barcelona

Although the number of thefts (see graph above) is no longer relatively as high as it was in 2022, after the end of the pandemic-related travel restrictions, a total of 64,831 thefts were recorded in Barcelona in the third quarter of 2023 alone. That’s an average of around 705 thefts per day . (However, this also includes minor shoplifting).

According to the Spanish magazine La Vanguardia , it can be assumed that there were even around eight pickpocketings per hour in Barcelona back in 2022 .

Will I be robbed in Barcelona?

First, the good news: Not every tourist gets robbed in Barcelona. Those who do are often distracted and let their bag out of sight .

I’ve been living in Barcelona since 2016 and haven’t been robbed myself – even though people have tried a few times. It’s important to keep your eyes open and react quickly if you feel something is off. – Vicki

Where in the city are you particularly at risk?

First of all, you should never leave your valuables unattended in Barcelona, no matter where you are.

However, places where there are a large number of people or where people are quickly or easily distracted are particularly popular.

These are among others

• the Metro of Barcelona,
• Restaurants,
• Las Ramblas,
• Barrio Gótico,
• the area around Sagrada Família,
• Plaza Cataluña,
• the beaches of Barcelona (be especially careful if you are going to the beach alone )
• and similar.

Also popular among thieves are

• Carrer Montcada,
• Carrer de la Princessa,
• Rambla de Raval,
• Mercat Santa Caterina and surroundings.

Also severely affected are places where you usually carry a lot of luggage, such as

• the main station Sants Estació,
• Estació de França,
• the main bus stations
• Estación del Nord and Metro line 9 (Orange), which runs between Barcelona and the El Prat Airport.

Are there violent robberies?

Although these occur occasionally, as in any big city, thefts in Barcelona are generally non-violent – on the contrary, the victim usually only realizes much later that they have just been robbed.

In general, you don’t have to worry too much about violent assaults in Barcelona. Nevertheless, you should be careful if you are out alone at night.

Who are the pickpockets?

While many claim it is primarily foreigners, there is no absolute standard thief. They can be found in all age groups – even children and senior citizens are among the thieves, as are foreigners, but also many locals, men, and a surprisingly high number of women.

What to do if you have been robbed in Barcelona

Don’t panic! Naturally, it’s a terrible feeling to get robbed and find yourself in a foreign country without any money, a mobile phone, or a passport. But first of all, keep calm and work through the following steps :

• Firstly, make sure to block all your credit cards immediately . Always carry your credit card provider’s contact number, and keep it separate from your valuables.
• Then, lock your SIM card , especially if it’s not prepaid. This is just a precaution since thieves often discard SIM cards quickly to avoid being tracked.
• Next, head to the nearest police station . Expect long lines, as you’re probably not the only victim of theft (your accommodation can assist in locating the closest one).
• File a police report , and it helps if you have the serial numbers of your stolen items. Leave your contact information in case your belongings are found. Often, thieves discard wallets after taking the cash and cards, so you might still recover your IDs and other items.
• Finally, take your police report to your country’s consulate to get a temporary passport or ID for your journey home.
• Don’t forget to inform your insurance company about the theft .

The most common tourist traps & Barcelona Scams and how to avoid them

In the following, we want to show you the most common tourist traps, scams, and theft scenarios so you can avoid them.

The pickpockets of Barcelona are constantly innovating, finding new ways to steal your valuables. The latest and most common methods can be found here.

The Classic

The most common way thieves steal from you is through brief body contact, often in busy places like Barcelona’s popular tourist spots, clubs, or the metro. They might “accidentally” bump into you , using those few seconds to swipe your phone or wallet. You might think, “ I’d definitely notice if someone were stealing from me! ” But the truth is, it often goes undetected.

Personal anecdote: I’ve experienced this firsthand. Once, just after my best friend arrived in Barcelona, a pickpocket swiftly stole her phone in a crowded metro. He snatched it from her closed purse as he passed by. As he brushed past us, her bag seemed to stick to his side momentarily. I jokingly commented on how quickly she was making ‘friends,’ given he wasn’t her type or age.

It was only minutes later when we left the subway, that we realized her new phone, which had been in her magnetically sealed handbag, was gone – and so was the man. Even my partner, who was right in front of us and saw everything from a different angle, hadn’t noticed the theft.

How to avoid this scam

• Never let your valuables out of your sight. A few seconds of carelessness may already be too much.
• Put your hand on your bag in the metro or crowded places.
• Or hang your backpack in front of your stomach so that you can see it.
• It also helps to use a combination lock or an anti-theft backpack.

The Classic + Distraction

This classic form of theft often involves teamwork . One or several people distract you while another person steals from you unnoticed.

Common tactics include someone dancing close to you in a club or performing soccer tricks on the street . A pretend footballer or street performer might playfully kick the ball around you or dribble it between your legs, getting close to you in the process.

While you’re distracted by the ball or even drawn into the game, either the performer himself or one of his accomplices will steal your valuables.

• Here, too, you should never allow yourself to be distracted away from your valuables. Always keep an eye on them.
• Theft-proof backpacks or a combination lock on your luggage can be helpful.

Bird dirt – currently one of the most popular variants

Whether pigeons, seagulls, or monk parakeets, Barcelona is full of birds. So, it’s easy not to suspect anything amiss when you fall prey to the following tourist scam:

As you wander through Barcelona’s narrow alleys, pickpockets might discreetly smear or throw a liquid on your clothes . Soon after, ‘helpers’ conveniently appear with wet wipes or tissues to ‘clean’ what looks like bird droppings off you .

During this distraction, they have the perfect opportunity to relieve you of your belongings . Sometimes, this trick is performed without any liquid at all; they simply pretend there’s a stain on your clothing.

• Make it clear immediately that you do NOT need help cleaning up.
• If the supposed helpers try to touch you, make it clear that you do not want them to.
• If necessary, push them slightly away from you and try to get the attention of the bystanders or ask specifically for help.
• If you don’t have any wipes with you, you can remove the stains in the nearest public toilet. In my experience, restaurant staff are usually very friendly and happily provide you with water, tissues, and napkins.

The Tourist

This trick also uses some sort of distraction method, which is becoming increasingly popular in Barcelona. A person pretending to be a tourist asks you for directions on the street . While the alleged tourist gets you involved in a conversation, his colleague cleans out your backpack unnoticed.

Even more popular is this trick with a city map spread out and held over your bag so that a colleague under the map can steal your belongings from your bag without you noticing it because the map hides your bag.

It’s almost logical: why would a tourist ask another tourist for directions? Isn’t it evident that tourists don’t know their way around the city?

• So if you are approached, refer them to locals.
• If you know your way around and want to help, put your hand over your bag
• and pull it out from under the map so it is not out of sight.

Similar to the tourist trap just introduced, you will be approached here to participate in an alleged survey. The clipboard is held over your valuables so your bag can be opened unnoticed .

Not every survey you find in Barcelona is a tourist trap. In fact, quite a few surveys are designed to improve the city. The city also employs a good friend of mine to run surveys, including for tourists.

• These official workers often have an ID noticeably hanging around their necks and usually carry a laptop rather than a clipboard to record the answers.
• Never let your valuables out of your sight, and make sure that nothing is covering your valuables.

The Tourist and the Police

This trick starts similarly to the previous one. Someone approaches you, asking for directions, the time, or something similar , and then disappears.

Shortly after, you’re approached by men claiming to be undercover police officers . They might even show some form of identification. They explain that the person who just talked to you is suspected of terrorism, drug trafficking, or something along those lines.

Then, they ask to see your identification documents (which they use either to check where you keep your wallet or as a distraction tactic). They may also want to search your backpack .

Either way, you’ll later realize that your valuables are gone. Some tourists are even asked to provide their PIN to “ verify their identity .”

• Make sure you only open your rucksack at the nearest official police station.
• You can find the nearest police station on Google Maps. – Some scammers are even said to use a fake “police station” where they have you sign false papers/purchase contracts.
• Therefore, check online whether it is a reputable police station.

This scam isn’t unique to Barcelona; it’s also used in many other countries. Typically, an older woman hands you a flower or a branch, pretending it’s a gift .

If you accept the flower, here’s what might happen:

• She might grab your wrist, claiming to read your future. During this, she’ll attempt to steal from you , often targeting wristwatches.
• If that doesn’t work, she’ll insist on payment for her ‘ service ‘ or the flower itself.
• In the last scenario, if you pull out your wallet to pay, she might swiftly take more money without your noticing or snatch it from your hand and run off.
• Do not accept the flower under any circumstances. No matter how often she insists that it is a gift.
• If she tries to put it in your hand, just drop it and keep walking.
• If possible, don’t even stop in the first place.

Helpless old man

This trick is used on both tourists and locals:

An old man ‘falls’ near you . Naturally, you rush over to help and check if he’s okay.

While you’re tending to the man on the ground, one or two other individuals appear, seemingly concerned about the older man as well. As you’re distracted with helping, they stealthily steal your valuables. Once they’ve taken what they want, the older man miraculously gets up with the aid of his supposed helpers and walks away.

• Of course, you should help and assume this is not always a trick.
• Despite everything, you should never lose sight of your valuables. However, this may be easier said than done.

Restaurant Scam

One thing you should not do in Barcelona is eat in one of the restaurants in Las Ramblas. The prices are way above average, and the quality usually leaves a lot to be desired.

While the restaurants here can be seen as tourist traps in themselves, sometimes it gets worse. (Of course, this can also happen to you in any other restaurant or café in Barcelona):

A group or individual sits down at the table next to yours, only to disappear again after a short time – taking your luggage or things from your backpack or bag with them.

• Avoid the restaurants in Las Ramblas.
• Do not hang your bag or rucksack over the back of your chair, but keep it on your lap or between your feet.
• Put your chair leg through the loop of your backpack/bag.
• Never leave your bag/laptop/backpack unattended when ordering or going to the restroom.

False Beggars

Like in most big cities, Barcelona has its share of fake beggars. They display cardboard signs with the saddest stories, which are usually made up to elicit sympathetic donations .

Some of these beggars approach you while you’re dining outside in bars or restaurants, trying to persuade you to donate .

Occasionally, they even go as far as claiming they’re tourists who have just been robbed and need money to get home or to the airport.

Update: I’m hearing more frequently about a blonde Irishman, around his mid-30s, using this exact same story to “borrow” money from people on the streets. He often targets young women and uses various names, often Kyle.

An even worse tactic that’s becoming more common involves beggars who, as soon as you open your wallet to give them something, snatch the money from your hand and run off , completely exploiting your kindness.

• Unfortunately, there is no way to tell who really needs the money and who is begging as a tourist trap.
• Of course, we sympathize with the poor people on the street, but for every real homeless person, there are, unfortunately, all the more fake beggars and tourist traps.
• In this case, unfortunately, the only thing that helps is to move on
• If you want, you can take the money a little further out of your pocket, go back and give it to the beggar.

Alleged Helper on the Highway

Not just in Barcelona itself but also on the highway heading north (especially on the A7), tourist traps await, particularly if you’re driving a car with foreign license plates.

A car might approach from behind, signaling you with flashing lights, honking, shouting, or even throwing small stones to alert you to a supposed flat tire. (In some cases, your tires might have been intentionally punctured beforehand, while in others, it’s just a trick).

As soon as you stop and get out to check your car, the thieves steal valuables from your vehicle or even the entire car, leaving you stranded on the roadside.

• If you find yourself in this situation, you should not stop under any circumstances.
• Drive to the nearest service station to check your car for damage.
• If you are being followed, call the emergency number 112 and inform them of your situation.
• Never leave any valuables in the car, and lock your vehicle correctly as soon as you get out.

How to fill a Police Report

Although Barcelona is very touristy, you shouldn’t rely on anyone in the police station speaking English. If you can take a local to translate, that would be better. If not, the following points may be helpful.

• Include all serial numbers, ID card numbers, and passport numbers that you may have.
• Prepare for long wait times
• Use the following vocabulary list to fill in your police report

Vocabulary list for filling a police report

Why are there so many pickpockets in barcelona.

Like many big cities, Barcelona has a significant number of impoverished residents, particularly immigrants who came seeking a better life but struggle due to high unemployment .

This situation, coupled with the crowds of tourists carrying money , makes the city a hotbed for pickpockets and tourist traps.

But why is it so prevalent in Barcelona?

A key reason is the Spanish legal system. Pickpockets caught with less than €400 in stolen goods often face no severe consequences .

So, if a pickpocket is caught with less than €400, they’re usually free to go and will likely resume their activities soon after. This lenient approach is surprising and contributes to the problem, attracting more pickpockets to Barcelona and other Spanish cities.

In fact, whole families specializing in pickpocketing are drawn to Spain. A recent documentary highlighted Romanian families who have gained wealth through pickpocketing tourists and locals in Barcelona.

Who is the thieves’ target group?

While initially predominately tourists were the target of pickpockets, today, there is no longer a clearly defined target group. Anyone who can be robbed is robbed. Of course, this is more often the case with foreigners and tourists – those not (yet) familiar with the city and culture are more likely to fall gullibly into the trap . But even those who are distracted and do not keep an eye on their belongings can easily fall victim to such robberies.

Tourists and expats traveling as digital nomads tend to carry more cash or valuables , such as cameras or laptops, which attract muggers. As a result, pickpockets are more common in the city’s tourist areas.

The following are therefore particularly popular with pickpockets:

• elderly people
• and drunks.

Conclusion on Barcelona security

Barcelona is a beautiful city and worth a visit. Therefore, you shouldn’t let possible security concerns ruin your vacation.

Keep an eye on your (valuable) belongings at all times, and it’s best to leave really valuable things at home (or in the hotel safe). Don’t get involved in strange games with strangers, and as soon as you feel uncomfortable in a situation, leave the place or seek help from others.

Have you ever been robbed or have any helpful safety tips? Please let us know in the comments below.

Interested in Barcelona?

About the Author Vicki

Hi, we are Vicki & Eduardo, an international travel couple on a mission to help you save money for priceless travel experience. Follow us through the miracles of this world and you will be rewarded with a bunch of practical travel tips.

6 thoughts on Barcelona Scams – How to successfully avoid Pickpockets & Tourist Scams

Excellent advice, I live here and everything you have said is 100% true.

Hi Richard,

thank you so much for your comment! I am happy you find it useful

We traveled to Barcelona in September, 2019. While sight seeing on the ” hop on, hop off ” bus, we encountered a very attractive couple from the USA. They followed us onto the bus, and began asking TOO many questions. A red flag went off when they insisted that we join them for drinks at the Westin Hotel . We declined and began to ignore them. After which they quickly exited the hop on, hop off bus. The young lady was blond, fit and very attractive. She was dressed like a tourist, with a straw hat. Her accomplice, an attractive man, about six foot two, in his early 40’s, with tattoos on both arms. Both wore large sunglasses and had no day packs nor bags. We both felt that had we joined them, we would have been assaulted and robbed. I have traveled extensively, this is a new type of scam similar to other thefts mentioned on this page. Beware of ‘ tourist ‘, who speak perfect English, that are TOO friendly.

Thank you so much for the warning and your personal experience. I have heard of this scam a lot in other places (the same happened to me in Beijing. Some couple that tried to convince us to have some drinks with them in order to “practice some English” even though they already spoke English fluently. Luckily my friend has heard of this scam before and declined). It’s sad to hear that this scam now also made it to Barcelona. Thank you again for the heads up and stay safe!

Hi Vicki, that was one of the most comprehensive guides I have read regarding this topic here in Barcelona. Well done! I have many clients asking if Barcelona is dangerous. But I would say it is not if you avoid certain places at certain times and be a bit mindful and follow your sound advice!

Regards Fritz

Thanks a lot for your comment!

Comments are closed.

Less or Morgan

Tourist traps you want to avoid in barcelona, spain.

Barcelona has grown drastically in how many of visitors it sees each year. Last year alone the city saw 32 million tourists. With many people flocking in, there is an increase in businesses trying to take advantage of tourists lack local knowledge. However, with the proper information, you don’t have to fall for the traps they set up for tourists. Barcelona is a fantastic place for a vacation or a travel expedition. However, as a first time visitor there are some common tourist traps in Barcelona to avoid.

Buying a ticket to Park Guell  

Purchasing a ticket to Park Gueli is one of the tourist traps in Barcelona because you can get into the park for free. While Park Guell, also known as the place where an iconic scene from Cheetah Girls 2 was shot, is on every tourist to-do list I think there are better things to spend your money on.

What the website online didn’t tell me is that there is no need to purchase a ticket to get into the park. The park is free. The ticket is sit on the park bench designed by Gaudi, which is incredible but not worth paying for. It is a bench I can see perfectly from outside the entrance.  Additionally, the park is overcrowded and you might not get a good picture anyway.

A bench in which I could see perfectly from outside the entrance. There are several other places much cheaper or free that have better views and aren’t as crowded, such as the bunkers. It is also far away from the city centre and it’s not worth the hour walk it takes to get there.

Purchasing Knock-Off Name brands on the street 

Workers set up name brands such as Adidas or Michel Kors on the ground in hopes that visitors will be enticed into purchasing their product. Don’t be fooled these products are low quality with fake names indicating high quality slapped on them  This is a common trick for large cities, even in America, but make no mistake those Addidas shoes will fall apart by next week.

Thinking sangria is a special drink in Spain

Sangria is basically just cheap wine, but tourists drink it up because it is marketed as the drink of Barcelona. There are many better acholic beverages I would recommend trying over the sangria that visitors seem to rave over.

Locating the local restaurants

If the restaurants advertise their menus with large pictures printed out the dining experience will be catered for tourists. The prices will be higher and the food lower quality. If you want to true Barcelonan experience avoid these restaurants altogether. If you walk around the streets for long enough you can find local cuisine that foodies will go crazy over.

Any store with “Barcelona” attire 

Another one of the tourist traps in Barcelona I discovered is the junky tourist stores are located around every corner. Unfortunately, these tacky stores are pushing local businesses out of the city. This destroys the authentic local consumer experience in Barcelona, which I don’t think is worth a t-shirt with the words Barcelona splashed across it. The only thing I could ever justify buying at these stores is postcards. Everything else is cheaply made and I can’t recommend purchasing any of it.

Eating at restaurants with nice waiters 

As crazy as it sounds, I was told that restaurants with rude waiters have the best food. This is what I was told my first day in Barcelona. Customer service is not a priority for locals. All they care about is if your food is the delicious savory dish it should be. If your waiters aren’t super friendly it is probably a local restaurant with delicious food.

Be prepared to wait a while at an authentic Spanish restaurant. As a collectivistic culture, they are much more relaxed about time. Even though I am not a time-oriented person I found the drastic culture difference frustrating. Yet, after my food is served an hour later I am okay with the wait.

Beware the pickpocketers 

Yes, Barcelona is indeed the pickpocketer capital of Europe but that shouldn’t worry you. It should, however, make you very aware of your surroundings. Don’t set your bags down EVER. I would recommend wearing a bag you can sling over your shoulder. Several times I had locals and other visitors remind me that pickpocketing is so common.

The first was warned was when I stopped in Starbucks to use the bathroom and charge my phone. I left my phone at the table next to me, while I sat at another table with my friends. An employee of Starbucks came over to me and recommended I move my phone because someone might steal it. Even though it may sound intimidating if you keep track of your stuff and ignore those trying to take advantage of tourists you will be fine. If someone asks you if you want them to take a photo of you the answer should always be NO. They might be trying to steal your phone or camera. To take group photos, I would suggest the ultra-handy selfie stick.

In every heavy populated city around the world, people will try to take advantage of tourists. Hopefully, this helps you avoid some of the tourist traps in Barcelona.

Other articles about Barcelona:

Cheap/ Free Things To See In Barcelona, Spain

lessormorgan

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Les Rambles Without Tourist Traps

Avoid the worst barcelona tourist traps.

If we made a list of the top ten tourist traps   in Barcelona, I’m sure more than 50% will be in La Rambla. During my tours I often tell my guests that this is a street that they want to check out once, because it’s picturesque and all, but then they probably won’t want to go back anymore. Once is enough.

Steps for a visit of La Rambla tourist traps free:​

Where to go for coffee​.

Las Ramblas is full of places where to get your morning coffee. But please, don’t get it at Dunkin Donuts! Locals would rather order a foamy latte at Pinotxo at the entrance of La Boqueria, or an expresso and a cake at the Escribà cake shop, or to really isolate themselves from the tourists crowds.

We’d head to the underground chic café of the Liceu Opera House (the oldfashioned Café de l’Opera across the street is nice, too, but it quickly gets filled up with tourists). And in the morning, at the hotdog place Viena they give you a free baby croissant with your coffee!

Safe lunch ideas

Seating in one of the many outdoor terraces of La Rambla… is the worst idea ever! That should come in any decent Barcelona tourist guide book: You’ll be charged an outrageous bill for just OK food: I still wonder how people keep falling in what all locals agree to be the worst of all the Barcelona tourist traps!

Instead, do yourself a favor and eat in one of the  amazing tapas bars in the Boqueria Market in Les Rambles . Or if you really need a seat-down option, check out our post on Restaurants in La Rambla .

Sightseeing​

What is that lady dressed like Marilyn doing in a balcony and waving to the people in the streets? She’s trying to lure you to another of the local tourist traps: the Museum of Erotics. Just skip it and head to Palau Guell, a little known Gaudi work in Nou de la Rambla street, just around the corner from Les Rambles.

And of course, explore the Boqueria Market (but come earlier than 11AM to avoid the tourist crowds). Oh, and did you notice there is a mosaic pavement by surrealist artist Joan Miró towards the center of Les Rambles? Most people walk past it without even noticing!

Going shopping​

By all means, do not support the horrible souvenir shops along the street, selling mostly cheap stuff made in Asia. Instead, get a bag in Desigual, some chocolates in the Escribà cake shop we mentioned before, or some music-related item in the oldest music shop in Barcelona: Casa Beethoven.

Living Statues​

Although mimes and living statues are nowadays found everywhere in the world, Barcelona was the first place to have them around 1992, for the Olympics. There were so many of them that now the city council has regulated them and sent them to the bottom of La Rambla, where they don’t block the way. 

While it can be fun to watch if you have kids, it’s not a must for adults. However, if you decide to go check them out, here are the rules: don’t take a picture unless you give them a coin first (one euro is acceptable) – otherwise they can get very rude to you!

AND BONUS! What about safety? Are you likely to get scammed in La Rambla? Yes! Here is how you can avoid it:​

Trileros – Street Gambling​

If you are strolling along Les Rambles and see some people on the floor playing with a pea or little ball and three glasses, and they ask you to guess under which glass is the pea/ball and bet for it… Go away! It’s not street gambling: these people are professional cheaters and they work in groups. 

While some try to take you in, others will be keeping an eye on the police (they are arrested if they get caught doing that), while other try to pickpocket the people that stops watching the game. So be wiser than them: do not stop!

What’s the worst tourist traps you’ve ever seen in your trips?​

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Barcelona Uncovered

What Should I Avoid in Barcelona? 27 Tips from Locals for 2024

Barcelona Uncovered contains affiliate links and is a member of Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read disclaimer for more information .

Planning a trip to the beautiful city of Barcelona? This is one of the most frequently asked questions I get before visiting, so you might be asking yourself the same thing, what should I avoid in Barcelona?

You’re in the right place. I live in Barcelona, and can tell you as a past tourist and a local, exactly what you should avoid in Barcelona. Below are 27 things to avoid, from myself and other locals. 

Don’t get caught unprepared in Barcelona, as that can easily put a damper on your trip. Let’s get started. 

Planning a trip soon? Here are some quick Barcelona travel resources

• Book your accommodations at Booking.com
• Find hostels at hostelworld.com
• Book your tours at GetYourGuide
• Book rental cars at discovercars.com

What Should I Avoid in Barcelona

Some of these might be obvious, but others won’t be! Do your research and show up to Barcelona as prepared as a local with these insider travel tips. Here are the top things you should avoid in Barcelona.

1. Avoid pickpockets – keep your belongings secured

Pickpockets are more common in Barcelona than in other metropolitan cities, so it pays to be extra diligent. One of the simplest ways to protect yourself is to keep your belongings in a zipped belt bag or fanny pack (bumbag for my UKers).

Never leave anything unattended or hanging off chairs, especially at restaurants with outdoor dining.

Pickpockets are most common in Las Ramblas and El Born. Furthermore, always be aware of your surroundings on public transit, as that’s another place pickpockets often hide. This is the number one thing to avoid in Barcelona, so don’t take this travel advice Barcelona lightly!

► Get my favorite shoulder strap/belt bag in your favorite color 🙂

2. Going to dinner without a reservation

When visiting Barcelona, it’s important to be aware of the city’s customs and etiquette. One of the most important things a traveler should keep in mind is not going to dinner without a reservation.

First, many popular tapas restaurants fill up quickly any day of the week, especially on the weekends.

Showing up without a reservation could mean long waits or maybe even that the restaurant is full for the rest of night.

Even if you do manage to get a last-minute spot on a waiting list, you may not be seated until 10-11 pm which can make for an exhausting evening!

Additionally, some restaurants may require reservations, especially for larger groups. Either way it’s always best to call ahead and check in advance before showing up.

And if you’re a planner like me, making a reservation ahead of time gives you peace of mind knowing that your table will be ready when you arrive – no waiting for tapas and wine!

3. Getting ready for dinner before 8pm 

Visiting Barcelona means experiencing a city that operates on its own clock.

One of the most important things to know before visiting Barcelona is that restaurants don’t open until 8 pm , and they close for siesta around 2 or 3 pm in the afternoon.

I know your stomach will probably be rumbling and excited for Spanish tapas and wine, but there’s no point in getting ready to head out before 8pm.

If you do happen to get a dinner reservation at 7, you’ll quickly notice that the streets will be empty for another hour or two at that time.

4. Wear heels or shoes other than comfortable walking shoes

There’s no better tell-tale sign of a tourist than wearing fancy or nice shoes when strolling around Barcelona.

Ditch those fancy shoes and take a cue from the locals – comfort is key ! But don’t worry, you can still look trendy in a pair of cute white sneakers or some combat boots.

Free Guide: 8 Tips for Staying Safe in Barcelona

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Trust me, your feet (and traveling companions) will thank you. No need to suffer from blisters and complaints when you can walk around like a true local.

How do people dress in Barcelona? Comfy and chic is the name of the game!

5. Expect it to be warm year-round 

Psst! Quick tip for beach lovers heading to Barcelona: don't believe the hype that the sandy shores are always sunny and warm . Actually, there are a few months that might throw a bit of a wrench in your plans for beach bumming.

From November to January, the weather can get a bit nippy and wet, so if your heart is set on soaking up the sun, plan accordingly!

6. Thinking that it’s not worth going inside Sagrada Familia

Think the outside of the Sagrada Familia is impressive ? Wait until you see what's inside! Many tourists make the grave mistake of assuming that the exterior is the highlight of Barcelona's most popular attraction .

But don't be fooled - the interior of the Sagrada Familia is a true masterpiece that will leave you speechless .

So if you're planning a trip to this stunning city, make sure you give yourself enough time to wander the halls and gaze up at the breathtakingly beautiful details. Trust me, it's worth every penny .

7. Try getting into Sagrada Familia without purchasing a ticket in advance

No one wants to spend hours waiting in line at a tourist attraction. Don't make the mistake of trying to score last-minute tickets to the stunning Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

This beauty fills up fast. To avoid missing out on Barcelona's most popular attractio n, it's best to book ahead - think a few hours minimum or even a day or two if you're planning a weekend trip or traveling during peak season. You don't want to waste any time to be memorized by Gaudí's masterpiece.

► Purchase your Sagrada Familia Ticket ahead of time

8. Thinking everyone speaks English

Want to explore Barcelona but don't know Spanish? No worries, you can still navigate the city like a pro! But that doesn't mean every local will speak English.

It's important to brush up on a few key phrases like please, (por favor), thank you (gracias), and a few other key phrases. You'll be good to go.

Plus, who doesn't love an opportunity to practice their language skills? Take a chance to chat with some of the mom and pop shop owners who might not speak your language fluently. You might just learn some new Spanish words while discovering your new favorite items!

9. Getting confused when someone speaks Catalan

Did you know that Spanish isn't the only language spoken in Barcelona? While it's a major language in the city, many locals actually speak Catalan as their primary language.

Catalan may have some similarities with Spanish, but it's its own unique language.

So don't be surprised if you hear different languages being spoken around town! Keep an open mind and embrace the linguistic diversity of beautiful Barcelona.

10. Avoid taking taxis everywhere

Say "adiós" to high transportation costs in Barcelona - don't waste your money by taking taxis everywhere.

This vibrant city offers a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere, making it a breeze to walk to most places.

And when your feet need a break, take advantage of the efficient and cost-effective public transportation system, like the metro. This is a great way to save money, get places fast and avoid traffic.

Get out there and explore Barcelona stress-free, and save those extra euros for some delicious tapas!

► OR explore the whole city with a Hop On Hop Off Tour !

11. Visiting without learning a few basic Spanish and Catalan phrases

There's not a huge language barrier in Barcelona, but it's still r espectful to know a bit of Spanish or Catalan to help get around during your trip.

Don't sweat it though, we've got you covered. Learn some essential Spanish, English, and Catalan phrases that'll help you get around Barcelona and interact with the locals like a boss. From greetings to asking for directions, make sure you won't don't have to resort to charades to get your point across.

Trust us, landing in a new country is already overwhelming as it is, so get your little notebook out and write down some important phrases.

12. Only seeing Barcelona 

Ready for some adventure outside of Barcelona? Don't limit your exploration to just the bustling city! Venture out and discover the hidden gems that Costa Brava and other towns like Valencia around Barcelona have to offer.

With breathtaking beaches, hikes around Sitges , charming villages like Cadaques , and so much more, this region is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Or go farther and explore other coastal towns in Spain like Cadiz .

So pack your bags , grab a map, and take a day trip to explore the wonders beyond the city limits!

► View day trips from Barcelona to Costa Brava

13. Taking out a ton of euros - but don't just rely on credit cards either! 

Before you go, let's talk finances. While it's always good to have some euros on hand for those smaller shops and street vendors, don't worry about lugging around a ton of cash.

In this modern city, most places accept credit cards and even the ultra-convenient apple pay ! One of my favorite parts of the city is how easy restaurants make it to split checks when I'm going out with friends. So go ahead and pack a few euros , and keep those plastic cards or virtual wallets at the ready.

14. Leave your belongings on the beach

If you're planning a fun-filled day soaking up the sun in vibrant Barcelona, there's one crucial rule you must follow. This is the most important thing to avoid in Barcelona: never leave your belongings unattended at the beach .

It might seem like a no-brainer, but too often people make the mistake of assuming their beach gear is safe when left alone.

Unfortunately, this leaves them vulnerable to theft and the headache that comes with losing important items. To avoid becoming a victim of beach bandits, always keep a watchful eye on your belongings or better yet, bring a trustworthy friend to take turns watching over everything while you take a dip in the sea.

15. Avoid walking around alone at night

There are plenty of safe areas in Barcelona like Gracia and Gothic Quarter. However, when it comes to exploring at night, it's definitely better to play it safe. As goes for any city, you should avoid walking alone in the dark. But don't worry, you won't have to miss out on the fun!

Stick with your group, hail a cab, or call up Free Now for a ride. This ride-sharing app in Spain has got your back and will get you where you need to go while keeping you safe. Remember to always prioritize your safety !

16. Leaving your phones on tables

In Barcelona, you should avoid leaving your phone on the table. While you're enjoying your meal or drinks, keep a close eye on your surroundings, especially if you notice any characters eyeing or coming near your table.

To add to that, the back of your chair isn't a safe spot either. Keep your phone close, and let the good times roll! Don't make the rookie mistake and have your phone laying out - unless you're using it to take a super cool picture of your food.

17. Visiting in July or August

While July and August are peak tourist seasons in this vibrant city, they also happen to be the hottest months of the year.

If you're not a fan of high temperatures and humidity, it might be best to avoid visiting during this time. There are plenty of other months when the weather is just as lovely and the crowds are a little thinner. March to June are great times to enjoy warm weather and the beach without sweating the day away.

On the other hand, July and August make for the perfect time to hit the beach and explore Costa Brava, so this isn't to say you should write off vacationing in the summer months.

18. Visiting in October - February

Don't get caught in the rain or cold unprepared . As much as I love the warmth of summer, October to December can bring some chill and rain .

So, if you're hoping to hit the beach or rock your favorite sundress, you might want to reconsider. Opt for September to avoid the colder temperatures in the winter months.

Instead, opt for layers upon layers and a trusty raincoat to stay cozy and dry. Trust us, you'll thank us later!

However, December-January also means Christmas! Barcelona at Christmas turns into a lively, spirited festival of the holidays. So, don't let the cold deter you if you want to take advantage of the Christmas markets.

The crowds disappear towards the end of January into February , making this a great time to visit a quieter city with few tourists.

19. Eating on Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is an iconic street in Barcelona. It's filled with lively street performers, colorful shops, and delicious eateries. However, if you're looking for a local experience, it may be best to avoid eating on Las Ramblas as this area is often crowded with tourists and prices tend to be higher than in other parts of the city.

There are way too many incredible restaurants to get stuck on a strip! Get out and explore the cuisine and exciting food scene in Barcelona.

If you do really want to see Las Ramblas, there's a unique cooking class on Las Ramblas that will give you a less touristy experience than just eating on the street.

20. Thinking that Barceloneta is the only beach

You may have heard that Barceloneta is the ultimate beach spot - but let's not fall into that tourist trap. While it's certainly convenient (and hey, who doesn't love a beach selfie with the city skyline?), it's overcrowded and over visited! There are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Take it from a local and venture out to one of the smaller, less crowded beaches . But if you're feeling really adventurous, head up to Costa Brava and prepare to be blown away by some serious beach beauty. Your Instagram feed will thank you.

21. Avoid paying for an expensive phone plan 

We all know that phone plans can be a real budget-buster, especially when you're far away from home. If you're coming from America, phone plans may cost up to $10 per day ! That will put a real dent in your travel budget.

E-Sim cards are available, and one of these cheapest options for traveling overseas. They don't operate on everyones phone, so double-check that your phone is compatible before before purchasing.

There's a simple in-person solution as well: grab a sim card from a Vodafone or Orange store when you arrive. You'll need to shell out some euros upfront but it'll be worth it. For just 20-30 euros, you'll get a few weeks of worry-free phone use so you can stay in touc h with your loved ones at home.

22. Go searching for a bull flight 

Don't go searching for a bull fight in Barcelona. The Spanish pastime of bullfighting was banned in Catalonia back in 2010. Although popular in other parts of Spain, it's a no-go if you're looking for it here. But fear not, there are plenty of other exciting activities to enjoy in the Catalan Capital!

23. Thinking Catalan culture is the same as other cultures 

Don't make the mistake of thinking Catalan culture is the same as other cultures around Spain. Catalan culture is so unique—it stands out from all the other cultures around Spain. You might be tempted to lump it all together, but don't make that mistake!

Explore how this culturally rich region offers up its own dishes , cultural activities, and art forms that can be found nowhere else. Take time to explore festivals like La Diada and La Merce in Barcelona which reveals a vibrant culture full of spirited traditions that are distinctly their own.

Discover the beautiful differences between Catalan and other cultures in the Iberian peninsula. This will add richness to your travels with a thorough understanding and appreciation of what makes it stand out amongst its neighbors.

24. Renting an Airbnb

Looking for accommodations? Airbnbs are definitely where not to stay in Barcelona! Avoid booking the ever-popular short term rentals here. Barcelona has cracked down on Airbnb rentals to ensure that locals living in Barcelona have access to available housing.

There are plenty of cool and quirky hotels and affordable hostels to fit any budget traveler . Plus, by staying in one of these places, you'll be supporting the local economy. So, ditch the Airbnb and embrace the cultural hospitality of Barcelona!

The most beautiful hostels and hotels can be found in some of the safest place to stay in Barcelona, no you won't have trouble finding a great accommodation.

► View the best hostels in Barcelona

25. Thinking you can see the whole city in a day

Don't try to see Barcelona in just one day! While the city may not be enormous, there is plenty to explore and enjoy. When you're sightseeing, take your time.

There's so much culture and history to appreciate in this lively city. Lose yourself while wandering through the narrow pedestrian alleyways or wander the beachfront.

From sightseeing around Park Güell to city tours with local travel guides and tapas to wine tours , spend your time experiencing Barcelona and everything it has to offer.

But, the best way to see the city in one day is with a hop on hop off tour !

► Explore the whole city with a Hop On Hop Off Tour !

26. Forgetting to explore the culture and architecture 

Barcelona is more than just Europe's party city. While the clubs and late-night scene are a blast, don't forget about the rich history and culture this city has to offer.

From stunning architecture to iconic landmarks, and jaw-droppingly delicious local cuisine , there's so much to experience beyond the party scene.

So, dance the night away, but don't miss out on the breathtaking sights and sounds that make Barcelona truly unforgettable!

🌎 View the best of Barcelona architecture with a guided tour of Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and Casa Batllo ↗

27. Not trying hole-in-the-wall tapas restaurants

Barcelona isn't the place to rely on Yelp for restaurant recommendations. It's time to immerse yourself in the local scene and discover the best tapas spots in town!

Don't settle for the tourist traps lining the busy hostel streets.

Take a leisurely walk and explore the quaint corners of the city, where hidden gems of culinary magic await .

These small, intimate restaurants offer the most delicious tapas that you won't find on any popular app. So forget the crowds and trust the locals for an unforgettable dining experience.

What to Pack for Barcelona

Here are my favorite things to pack when it comes to traveling around Barcelona (or anywhere, really!) I travel a ton , so I've got this down to a science now!

BEST BELT BAG FOR BARCELONA

I'm all about style , practicality, and affordability . Pickpockets can be a real problem in Barcelona, so keeping your belongings secured in front of you is super important.

Don't just take it from me - this belt back has high ratings and comes in EVERY color. Grab a few to match every outfit, if you want!

BEST LUGGAGE SET FOR BARCELONA

Coolife not only has some of the best-rated luggage on Amazon, but also the most variety in colors, pieces, and sets.

You'll likely want to check a bag going to Barcelona, but if you're traveling around Europe, you'll need small carry ons. Budget airlines like Ryan Air and Vuelling have smaller overhead space than you might be used to on airlines in America.

BACKPACKING IN BARCELONA

There's no question that Osprey has made a name for itself when it comes to backpacking - I recently got one myself! I had a hard time finding which one was right for me.

Lucky for you, they have a nifty "Who is This Pack For" quiz on there Amazon Storefront to help you find the perfect pack. Osprey's are expensive, but they'll last you a lifetime!

LIGHTWEIGHT SUNSCREEN

Because just like the Caribbean , the sun hits different in Barcelona! Protect your skin. And if you're traveling through London remember, they have pesky liquid requirements to keep in mind.

PACKING CUBES

As an avid traveler, I need to squeeze A LOT into a little. Packing cubes are surprisingly space saving - and a great way to organize. I have these packing cubes - they've lasted a long time and are versatile enough to get me through every trip.

SAND PROOF/QUICK DRY TOWEL

Going to the beach? Don't forget your towel! And definitely don't get stuck waiting for it to dry. These quick dry towels keep away the worst part of the beach (sand) and make it easy to store them when you're back in your hotel. Plus, they're super compact and light weight.

WHITE SNEAKERS

Do yourself a favor - don't show up to Barcelona without some cute white sneakers. Leave the heels at home. Walking around Barcelona isn't for the faint of heart. Keep your feet happy and go for stylish comfort.

EUROPEAN PLUG ADAPTER

These are lifesavers when traveling in Europe - 2 ports on each + 2 USB ports. They're hefty and they've lasted me a few years already, so I know they're good quality. Plus, they've got almost 10,000 great ratings on Amazon, so I'm not alone.

PROTECT YOUR PRIVACY WITH THE BEST VPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) protects your internet connection and privacy while hiding your online identity...and gives you access to your favorite streaming services on the road...

Unsecured connections to public WiFi can result in loss of personal data and even credit card information.

NordVPN is fast, secure, and affordable . Really, you should use it everywhere, not just when you're traveling!

SIM cards can be a nightmare, I get it. Airalo makes it easy to add a SIM card right to your phone - one less thing you have to worry about when you get to Europe. You can purchase a card for Spain, Europe, or Global.

Just make sure your phone is compatible before you buy! You can check in the settings of your phone.

What Should I Avoid in Barcelona FAQ 

Now that you now everything you should avoid in Barcelona, here are some answers to visitor's most frequently asked questions!

If you want to stay away from crowds, you'll want to avoid Las Ramblas streets. You should also avoid staying outside of city center; it's not worth traveling into the city each day. In terms of safety, El Raval and El Born are most known for pickpockets and petty crimes, though El Born is still considered a popular place.

To not look like a tourist in Barcelona, stay casual in your outfits and always wear comfortable shoes. You should also take a proper siesta with the rest of the city in the afternoon. Most shops and restaurants shut down, so there's no need to be out! Lastly, always make dinner reservations so you don't end up with no dinner options or long wait times.

The most important things to not say in Barcelona are about Catalan culture. Don't ask if Catalan is the same as Spanish, or vice versa, in Barcelona. They're two different languages. And second, don't ask Catalans about independence from Spain - this is a controversial and potentially offensive topic.

While it's not necessarily unsafe to walk around Barcelona at night, I wouldn't suggest it. After sundown, it's important to prioritize safety. It's always best to err on the side of caution. If you do venture out at night, try to stick with a group and avoid wandering alone. Remember - safety first, always!

According to the US State Department, Barcelona is safe to travel for American tourists. It's labeled Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution on a 4 point scale. Visitors should take necessary precautions as they would in any city such as keeping your belongings secure, locking all doors, and not wandering around alone at night.

Shorts can be the perfect choice for a night of exploring the city's pulsing nightlife in the hot summer . But don't just throw on any old pair of shorts - you'll want to dress them up a bit to fit in with the crowd. Opt for a nicer pair of shorts. With the right look, you'll fit right in at the clubs and bars.

Final Thoughts: What Should I Avoid in Barcelona - From a Local!

Now you know all the answers to your question, what should I avoid in Barcelona, directly from the locals! When visiting Barcelona, there are a few things you should avoid to make the most of your experience.

Of course, don't rely on tourist traps for restaurants or attractions; take some time to explore and find hidden gems off the beaten path. It's also important to be mindful of cultural differences - you're visiting their country.

And as with any country, take precautions to stay safe around the city. With these Barcelona travel tips in mind, you're sure to have an unforgettable trip.

More Barcelona Travel Posts

• Barcelona Food and Wine Tours
• Best Barcelona Gaudi Tours
• Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?
• Christmas in Barcelona
• Best Weekend Getaways from Barcelona
• Barcelona in June
• Barcelona in August
• Barcelona in September
• How to Get Around Barcelona
• Best Photography Tours in Barcelona
• Best Tapas in Gothic Quarter Barcelona
• Most Visited Place in Barcelona

Rachel is Barcelona Expat and digital nomad. After a decade of traveling around, she decided to set roots in Barcelona. She now helps tens of thousands of people travel to beaches around the world, and is ready to help you plan your trip to Barcelona. To help you experience the best of Spain and this coastal paradise.

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The Insider’s Guide to Navigating Through Las Ramblas Like a Local

Are you planning a trip to the vibrant city of Barcelona? Do tales of bustling markets and lively street performers at Las Ramblas make you dream of wandering through its lively lanes like a true local? I get it – once upon a time, I was in your shoes! Yet, navigating such an energetic boulevard can feel like trying to understand Picasso’s abstract art – chaotic, complex, but oh-so-enticing.

“Las Ramblas are the arteries of my dreams.” – Joan Miro, 1978

In this article, we’ll dive into everything from hidden gems off-the-beaten-path that only locals know about to how you can navigate street vendors without being swindled. We’re covering it all for you! By the end of reading this insider’s guide to Las Ramblas, not only will you be able to avoid typical tourist traps but also savor authentic Catalan experiences.

Understanding the Historical Significance of Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas , a bustling boulevard in Barcelona, is more than just a pedestrian walkway for tourists. It’s like the city’s heartbeat, pulsing with historical significance stretching back centuries.

“The heart of Barcelona beats on Las Ramblas.” – Carlos Ruiz Zafón, The Shadow of the Wind (2001)

Originally, Las Ramblas was nothing but a sandy riverbed – not precisely the kind of place you’d want to go for an evening stroll. But over time (and after some severe landscaping), it evolved into one of the most iconic streets in Spain. Imagine stepping onto this street and instantly being transported back through epochs! You’d go from seeing medieval walls erected during the reign of James I, past ornate theatres hosting grand operas in their heyday, to witnessing modern-day human statues posing as mermaids or gladiators.

Now imagine walking amidst stalls brimming with vibrant flowers and exotic birds chirping away happily – sounds like something out of Dr Doolittle’s storybook. Well, those are just everyday sights on Las Ramblas. Then there are historic landmarks such as La Boqueria market – an absolute foodie heaven where you can pick up anything from Spanish hams to tropical fruits.

“I wandered down the Ramblas today and thought about how I could live here forever.” – Ernest Hemingway, 1935

But remember folks − don’t get too mesmerized by your surroundings! Las Ramblas has gained quite a reputation for ‘light-fingered’ individuals who might help themselves to your belongings without asking first. So hold your wallets tight because losing them could turn this history lesson into an unexpected adventure.

So next time you find yourself wandering down this legendary avenue lined with beautiful buildings and teeming life, take a moment to appreciate its rich tapestry woven together by countless generations before us.

Exploring the Heart of Barcelona: A Detailed Breakdown of Different Sections of Las Ramblas

The upper section.

Strolling down from Plaça de Catalunya, your journey begins at what locals call ‘Rambla de Canaletes.’

• This place has a whimsical secret – it hosts the famous Font de Canaletes.
• A magical fountain rumored to possess powers.
• Sip its water, they say, and you’ll fall so deeply in love with Barcelona that you will return again and again.

Central Section

The central stretch is nicknamed ‘Rambla dels Estudis’ or ‘Bird Street.’

• It was once home to bird sellers chirping away under pretty cages hung on trees.

The Lower Section

As we meander further down towards Christopher Columbus Monument, ‘Rambla Sant Josep’ comes into view.

Weaving around flower stalls boasting every hue imaginable, their fragrance wafting through the air paints quite an aromatic picture. Delicate lilies dance alongside feisty roses while bashful sunflowers blush in corners.

Decoding the Street Life: Navigating Street Vendors, Artists, and Performers in Las Ramblas

Step right into “Street 101”, your passport to the pulsating world of Las Ramblas. Amidst its spirited alleys and squares, encounter a mosaic of artists, vendors, and performers so lively it could make even the most seasoned traveler’s heart skip a beat. Welcome to Barcelona’s vibrant soul.

Here are a few tips for your journey through Las Ramblas:

Watch your things. The bustling crowds can be a hotspot for pickpockets.

Try bargaining. Don’t just accept the initial price from vendors; haggling is part of the experience.

Taste the local foods. Skip the upscale restaurants and savor genuine Spanish flavors from street stalls.

Now, for the performers: From jugglers to musicians and motionless human statues, Las Ramblas never falls short of entertainment. Show your appreciation – toss a coin, applaud, or even dance along. Who knows, you might just become a street sensation yourself.

Every step in Las Ramblas offers a unique experience, leaving memories that will linger long after your visit.

Unveiling Secret Spots: Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Las Ramblas 

If you’re strolling down the lively boulevard of Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s heartbeat, it’s tough to imagine that this bustling place could hold any secrets. After all, isn’t anything secret supposed to be…well, unpopulated?

Let’s start with El Jardin del Angel . Not your common florist shop. This hidden gem is tucked away just off the avenue.

• The history alone is worth the detour.
• This was once a cemetery for the poor; now, it blooms with life instead of echoing with ghostly whispers.

Moving on from flora to fauna – welcome to Casa Beethoven , where sheet music rustles like leaves on trees. Nestled amidst touristy trinket shops is this sanctuary for music lovers. Here you’ll find everything from classical scores to flamenco rhythms.

• Frequented by Picasso himself—though one hopes he paid his tab, unlike his cubist doodlings at El Quatre Gats—it has been dishing out Catalan culinary delights since 1786.

Las Ramblas may be teeming with tourists, but some corners still retain their original charm and mystique. So next time you are there, don’t forget, “A secret spot awaits those who dare wander off the path.” And remember, always carry a map.

Feasting Like a Local: A Guide to Barcelona’s Best Eateries in Las Ramblas

Local Dining in Las Ramblas, Barcelona

Barcelona’s Las Ramblas is a hotspot for delicious foods. You’ll be swept away by its lively energy and the tempting smells of paella, seafood, and tapas. Ready to discover some amazing places to eat? Let’s dive in.

Can Culleretes deserve a mention first?

• Barcelona’s oldest restaurant since 1786,
• A hub for traditional Catalan dishes.

Its meals, like ‘escudella i carn d’olla’ (a rich meat and veggie stew), remind many of homemade cooking. Imagine eating a meal prepared by a talented Catalan grandma.

Next, there’s the delightful Café de l’Òpera .

• Known for its rich hot chocolate,
• A beautiful place from 1929.

This café gives a feel of the past and serves memories with their food. Imagine enjoying churros with creamy Spanish hot chocolate after a Las Ramblas stroll.

Lastly, take advantage of the La Boqueria market .

• A burst of color and taste,
• Catalonia’s freshest picks.

La Boqueria has stalls that sell everything, from unique fruits to fresh seafood. It’s a paradise for food lovers.

Avoiding Tourist Traps: Insider Tips on Staying Safe and Smart in Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas , the vibrant street in Barcelona, is a magnet for tourists and, unfortunately, pickpockets too. With these insider tips, you can outsmart them all and have an unforgettable experience without falling into tourist traps.

First things first – let’s talk about your belongings.

When it comes to keeping your stuff safe, always be on alert.

Rule number one : never leave your bag unattended. 

• Crossbody bags : These babies are hard to snatch away.
• Fanny packs : They might scream “tourist!”, but who cares when they’re so effective?

Now onto food and drink.

We’ve all heard those horror stories of unsuspecting tourists paying 10 euros for tap water at some expensive restaurant (yikes!).

Rule number two: dodge this by avoiding places with pictures outside or menus translated into multiple languages. They’re often overpriced tourist traps.

• A cheeky tip: look for cafes filled with locals. You’ll get authentic Catalan cuisine at reasonable prices.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path. The alleyways branching off from Las Ramblas hold countless treasures waiting to be found. Don’t worry; it’s not like entering Narnia.

• The Gothic Quarter is next door and offers stunning architecture.

Savoring Authentic Catalan Experiences: Cultural Highlights not to miss in Las Ramblas 

Start your journey in this cultural heart by visiting its historical sites. Check out The Mercat de la Boqueria, where the tempting smells of fresh seafood and ripe fruits surround locals and tourists alike. It’s truly an experience for your senses.

Don’t miss Casa Batlló, a work by Antoni Gaudí that looks like a piece from Picasso. It’s colorful and elegant, reminiscent of a psychedelic dream.

Las Ramblas is also known for its street performers. The boulevard feels like an outdoor theatre with magicians and more. Here in El Raval, you’ll see human statues come to life and artists creating art in moments. Just remember, if you enjoy a performance, tipping is expected. Or you might find yourself being chased by a pretend gladiator.

In short, experiencing Las Ramblas means enjoying great food, admiring the beautiful architecture, and engaging with lively street artists – sometimes too closely.

Shopping Guide: Where to Find Unique Souvenirs in Las Ramblas

When shopping in Barcelona’s bustling street, Las Ramblas, the experience is as colorful and lively as a Picasso painting. This vibrant boulevard, stretching over 1.2 kilometers, has something for every kind of shopper – whether you’re seeking traditional Spanish trinkets or outlandish souvenirs that scream eccentricity.

Between the eclectic mix of stalls and stores selling everything from handmade jewelry to Flamenco-inspired attire, there’s no doubt you’ll find a keepsake that captures Barcelona’s creative spirit.

Now let me share some insider tips on where to hunt down these unique mementos. Mercat de la Boqueria , just halfway down Las Ramblas.

• This isn’t your typical grocery store. It’s an explosion of colors, smells, and tastes.

The market teems with stand after stand of exotic fruits (ever tried Dragon fruit?), local delicacies like chorizo sausages, and seafood caught fresh daily. And let’s remember that candy stands with sweets in all shapes and sizes.

And if you fancy bringing home a slice of Catalan culture, head over to Pastisseria Escriba .

• This legendary pastry shop offers mouthwatering pastries so beautiful they could be mistaken for decorative ornaments.

Remember not to pack them at the bottom of your suitcase. Or perhaps check out one-of-a-kind boutiques such as Retro City , famed for its vintage clothing.

So get ready because shopping on Las Ramblas is nothing short of an adventure; full pockets or empty ones are treasures galore waiting just for you.

Las Ramblas is a vibrant, bustling boulevard in Barcelona, Spain. It’s renowned for its lively street performances, colorful markets, diverse restaurants, and bars alongside historic sites like the Liceu Theatre and La Boqueria Market—a must-visit spot reflecting Catalan culture at its finest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Las Ramblas is a bustling boulevard in Barcelona, Spain. It’s renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, street performers, market stalls, and eateries. This 1.2-kilometer stretch begins at Plaça de Catalunya and ends near the city port.

Las Ramblas sits right in the heart of Barcelona City. It runs from Plaça de Catalunya to Port Vell Harbor on the coastline of the Mediterranean Sea, dividing old town Barcelona into two parts – El Raval and Barri Gòtic.

Its fame comes from being a cultural hub filled with historical landmarks like Liceu Theatre and Boqueria Market. The lively ambiance created by artists, musicians, and human statues combined with unique shopping experiences makes it an enduring tourist attraction.

While generally safe during daytime hours, pickpocketing can be an issue at Las Ramblas due to its popularity with tourists. As such, visitors are advised to stay vigilant about their belongings, especially in crowded areas or while enjoying outdoor cafes.

There’s much to do! You can visit historic sites like the Christopher Columbus Monument or explore Mercat de la Boqueria for local foods. Strolls reveal intriguing shops selling flowers and souvenirs, while evening brings out street performances that charm this vibrant thoroughfare.

Did you know?

Las Ramblas is a vibrant and lively promenade in the heart of Barcelona, Spain. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike come to stroll, shop, eat, and drink. One fascinating fact about Las Ramblas is that it wasn’t always the bustling hub it is today. In medieval times, this famous street was a dry riverbed that served as the city’s drainage system during heavy rains. There’s also an artistic side to Las Ramblas. Did you know surrealist artist Joan Miró was born here? There’s even a mosaic created by him smack dab in the middle of the walkway – but many people miss it while walking over. Lastly, Las Ramblas has its dedicated marketplace: Mercat de la Boqueria. This market dates back to 1217 and offers an array of local produce, meats, cheeses, and more for anyone looking for fresh ingredients or delicious bites.

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Tourist traps to avoid in Barcelona

With as many as nine million tourists flocking to Barcelona every year, the city is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations . With the allure of Gaudí’s breathtaking architecture, beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and delicious food, Barcelona  has something for everyone. However, like any other major tourist destination , Barcelona has its fair share of attractions and experiences which cost a lot but can leave you with a sour taste in your mouth.

Whilst it’s effortless to spot the tourist traps  in our own countries, we can’t seem to resist them when we are visitors in a new city. So, if you would rather experience Barcelona like a local, here are some things you should steer clear of:

Table of Contents

Dinner on Las Ramblas

Go to a Flamenco show

Flamenco comes from Andalusia and is not in keeping with Catalan tradition at all, so ignore the flyers and posters for ‘traditional Flamenco shows’ (which are pretty pricey too) and soak up some Catalan culture instead.

A night out in The Port Olímpic district

The, admittedly beautiful, marina area of Barcelona which was built for the Olympic games in 1992, forms part of Barcelona’s seafront, home to a number of nightclubs and bars popular with young partygoers. Like Las Ramblas, the drinks are expensive, the queues are long and the atmosphere is distinctly not Spanish. If you fancy a night out or a few drinks somewhere frequented by locals, then avoid  Port Olímpic at all costs. There are a plethora of interesting and traditional bars positioned all over the city, where you can enjoy a glass of cava  or vermut.

Sangria is not a local drink!

Whilst sangria may not strictly qualify as a tourist trap , I feel obliged to say that it is most definitely not a typical Catalan drink and you will not find locals ordering it. Whilst it is served in most bars and restaurants owing to its popularity with tourists, you are likely to be served a combination of cheap wine and sugary fruit juice. If you want to drink like a local , order a glass of cava, the ‘unofficial’ drink of Barcelona . A glass is usually between €3 to €6, making it the much more affordable choice too.

Go to the beach in Barcelona

Whilst Barceloneta beach is perfectly nice, you won’t find many locals there and in the summer months it’s brimming with annoying tourists , it can be anything but relaxing. There so many beautiful beaches in Catalonia, which are much more secluded and are only a short train journey away. What’s more, train prices out of Barcelona  are very reasonable, so a day trip won’t burn a hole in your pocket. Sitges, Castelldefels and Costa Brava are all excellent alternatives.

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About the author.

Priyankaa is a Hispanic Studies graduate from the University of Birmingham.

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50+ Helpful Barcelona Travel Tips & Tricks: Must-Knows Before You Visit Barcelona!

Last Updated: June 23, 2021

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Despite being one of the most visited destinations in the world, I still find it’s often the case that articles featuring Barcelona travel tips omit a crucial detail about this spectacular city…

That it is hilariously easy to screw up here.

I’m talking tourist traps left and right, pickpockets front and back, and so many overwhelming activity options that you’ll wish you could just chug vermouth and nap forever.

But here’s the thing: Barcelona (when done properly) can truly be a life-changing, or at least waistline-changing, experience.

So, if you want to ensure that you visit Barcelona properly, let me help.

Below you’ll find my top Barcelona travel tips, meticulously collected over trial and error from my four visits.

… Enjoy!

Save these Barcelona travel tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

Barcelona Travel Planning Tips

Let’s start with some planning-related Barcelona tips to help you with flights, booking hotels in Barcelona, choosing dates, the best times to visit Barcelona, etc.

Learn the tricks for getting cheap flights TO Barcelona

If you haven’t booked your flights to Barcelona yet, be sure to check out my guide on  how to get the cheapest flights to Europe . I promise it’ll save you hundreds of dollars on your flight!

Avoid visiting Barcelona in peak season

If your Barcelona visit is planned for July or August, well… *hands you oxygen mask and a bag for tears*

Just kidding! Kinda.

The truth is, Barcelona is probably one of the most visited cities in Europe, and while I’ve never visited in peak-peak season, I’ve seen enough human mobs during my January and May visits to imagine just how frightening it is with massive crowds, sweltering heat and every unpleasant thing about travel squished together in one photogenic  moderniste package.

I would strongly advise if you hate crowds as much as I do to visit in the off-season (January – March).

I recently went in January and was greeted with pleasant temperatures, blue skies,  sunshine, and of course, a fraction of the crowds one might encounter in July or August.

Still prepare for crowds in the off-season

However, just to cover my butt and confusingly backtrack, I should say that just because Barcelona is quieter in the off-season, doesn’t mean it’s a magical ghost town either.

In fact, I still found main spots like La Boqueria, Las Ramblas and Placa Catalunya to be teeming with tourists in January…

BUT there were significantly less crowds at most paid attractions, and ticket availability was generous even on the day-of, which can’t be said for the peak season, when it’s advised you book every activity in advance.

So, if you fancy a bit more spontaneity during your Barcelona visit, be sure to time your Barcelona trip for the off-season.

Book your hotel well in advance

Barcelona is one of the busiest tourist cities in the world, which means the best hotels (and most affordable ones) book up quickly, especially during peak season.

So, book early!

I know that committing to a hotel early can feel scary, but if you use  Booking.com , you can find hundreds of hotels that offer free reservations and free cancellations up until a certain point.

This means you can get some peace of mind without putting down any deposits or committing to a hard date until much later.

Here are some of the places I’ve stayed in Barcelona and can recommend:

• Budget: This fun hostel
• Mid-range: This clean and central hotel
• Unique: This cool yet affordable hotel or this one

Know the difference between the European hotel star system vs North America

If you’re currently looking for accommodation in Barcelona: here’s another tip – look at reviews rather than star rating alone.

In North America, the star rating system for hotels usually means 5* = opulent luxury and 1* = you may lose your kidneys.

This is not the case in Europe. With European hotels, instead of stars matching quality on a scale of 1-5, the stars actually correspond to a checklist of amenities/requirements.

SO, you can find some wonderful 2* properties that are just smaller and lacking amenities like a spa or pool, while also finding mediocre 4 or 5* properties that have earned that rating simply due to amenities like fitness centers and valets.

Learn more about the criteria for star ratings here.

Make sure you have travel insurance

As you’ve probably heard countless times, travel insurance is an important must for every trip… but this is especially true in touristy cities like Barcelona, where there are pickpockets everywhere.

Trust me, the peace of mind you get with insurance is worth the cost, especially for dreamy bucket list destinations like this!

Click here to check rates with WorldNomads.

Download helpful apps before you go

There are plenty of apps you can download that will make your time in Barcelona 100x easier.

I’ve previously written a full list of the  best travel apps for Europe  so be sure to check that out, but here are some especially good options for Barcelona:

• Google Translate:  A must for translating signs/menus on the go. Download Spanish to be used offline if you can
• The Fork:  Great for making restaurant reservations

Consider adding other Catalonian destinations to your itinerary

Barcelona is an amazing city, but I can also highly recommend Tarragona , Girona, and Montserrat.

If you have extra time during your trip, planning at least a day trip to one of these spots is a must!

Barcelona Metro Tips & General Tricks For Transport/Getting Around

Getting around Barcelona can be really daunting for a first-time visitor, so here are all my best Barcelona tips related to getting around:

Buy a T-10 Ticket for public transportation

While public transportation in Barcelona isn’t too expensive compared to other major European cities, buying single tickets over and over is not only a hassle, it can add up quickly.

Instead of constantly getting single tickets then, the best ticket you can get as a tourist in my opinion is a T-10 ticket which gets you ten trips for only 10.20.

Doing some not-so-complicated math, this evens out to about 1 euro per trip which is half the price of a single ticket, with the happy bonus that you don’t need to constantly buy new tickets every time.

If you’re looking for the best value transport ticket in Barcelona, this is it!

Avoid taxis if you can in Barcelona

On a similar note, I would avoid taking too many taxis. This is because Barcelona is a delightfully walkable city marred with hilariously bad traffic.

Given that the city’s public transportation system is so clean, safe and cheap, I wouldn’t advise trying to take a taxi anywhere. Instead, just use public transport, or your good old fashioned legs.

Use the Aerobus Express to get to/from the airport

If you are travelling light (e.g. you can easily carry your bags), then the most affordable and convenient way to get to/from the airport in Barcelona is by far the Aerobus Express. You can easily book/compare options on Omio or through their official site.

This option costs only 5.90 each way, and is quick and convenient. This is the option I pick every time I go to Barcelona.

Book an airport transfer for minimal stress

That said, if you are travelling with a lot of bags, a big group, or as a family, then booking an airport transfer might be wise.

For the least stressful option, consider booking a  Welcome Pickups transfer,  which is a set price, includes an English speaking driver who monitors your flight arrival time, and offers free cancellations up until 24 hours before.

This saves you the hassle of trying to get a taxi/navigate the language barriers to do so… while of course helping you avoid getting scammed too!

Easily rent a bike

While you can of course book a bike tour in Barcelona like  this one,  there’s a super simple way to rent a bike in Barcelona whenever you need one – through an app called  Donkey Republic, which allows bike-sharing across the city.

You simply pick up a bike when you see one, use it, then drop it off at one of many docking points around the city.

Click here for a guide on how to use it.

Easily rent a scooter

For a transport option that’s even more fun, Barcelona also has many companies that offer e-scooter rentals that are activated through an app.

Here is a guide on how to use them.

Barcelona Tips For Attractions

Odds are, if you’re visiting Barcelona, sightseeing til you drop s part of the plan. So, here are some of my best Barcelona travel tips related to sightseeing, attractions and itinerary planning.

Book Barcelona attractions in advance

If it has always been your dream since birth to drool over the Sagrada Familia, explore the whimsical Pedrera, or skip and twirl your way through Parc Guell, book it.

Book it now. Build yourself a time machine and book it last week. I’m not joking.

The last thing you want during your Barcelona trip (besides a sugary sangria hangover) is to wait too long for tickets then realize that there are none left, or worse yet, rot in a line-up for 1.4 million years just to catch a glimpse your Gaudi of choice.

When in Barcelona, time is money, so be smart and get your tickets well in advance. Here are some helpful links where you can get skip the line tickets:

• Sagrada Familia: Get fast-track tickets here
• Camp Nou Experience: Get fast-track tickets here
• La Pedrera: Get skip-the-line tickets here
• Palau de la Música: Get a self-guided tour ticket here
• Casa Vicens: Get skip-the-line-tickets here

Take advantage of Barcelona’s many combo cards and tourist passes

One of the best things about visiting Barcelona is the amount of amazing attractions and touristic offerings that are around to dazzle and impress.

That said, hopping from attraction to attraction does add up quickly in Barcelona, which means your future will involve plenty of emptying your wallet while crying.

So here’s another money-saving Barcelona tip for you: buy a combo card or tourist pass which gives you entry to multiple attractions for a single price!

Here are some Barcelona sightseeing passes you might be interested in :

• Articket: entry to six of Barcelona’s top art museums for only €30; valid for 3 months
• Barcelona iVenture card: allows you bundle 3 or 5 of Barcelona’s top attractions for steep savings (or there’s an unlimited option too!)
• Barcelona Express Card: 2 days of unlimited public transport for €20 plus a lot of discounts/savings on Barcelona’s top attractions
• Barcelona Pass Modernista: 7 days’ skip-the-line access to 15 of the most famous Moderniste works in Barcelona for steep savings

Avoid overstuffing your itinerary

Barcelona is one of those cities where you’ll inevitably run around like a headless chicken, attempting to fit an entire guidebook’s worth of fun into a whopping 48 hours.

And while that might sound like a good idea at first, it’s a delicious recipe for almost dying.

Trust me, Barcelona is a city with attractions for days. I mean, I tried to summarize the highlights of things to do in Barcelona and STILL ended up with a (mildly terrifying) 79 activities.

So, remember: people can live in Barcelona for an entire lifetime and still not discover everything that the city has to offer, so as a tourist, don’t expect that you’ll be able to cover everything in a few days.

Rather than break your legs trying to fit every single must-see, select a few that are non-negotiable for you, and instead pencil in extra time to relax and soak in all the wonderful vibes that Barcelona has to offer.

Trust me, that’s when you fall slowly but surely in love.

Wake up EARLY

The morning hours are the best time to explore Barcelona. Yes, I’m talking sunrise-early if you really want to make the most of the city’s “empty hours”.

Barcelona is hands down one of the busiest cities in the world when it comes to tourism, and waking up early is pretty much the only way to experience it without tons of crowds.

My pro Barcelona tip for avoiding crowds? Pick the #1 attraction you’re most excited for, and plan to see it as soon as it opens, with some sunrise explorations beforehand.

Enjoy ALL the free Barcelona viewpoints

Barcelona is a stunning city with plenty of incredible vantage points… many of which are free!

Here are some you should make sure you don’t miss.

The Bunkers del Carmel: To me, the best view in the city. A bit of work to reach but absolutely magical at sunset. Read my guide on how to visit the Bunkers del Carmel in Barcelona for more.

Las Arenas de Barcelona: A bullring-turned-shopping mall that is now home to a free 360 degree viewing platform overlooking Plaça d’Espanya. Access is free via escalator, while the elevator is 1 euro.

El Corte Inglés: A popular Barcelona shopping center, with an epic view over Plaça de Catalunya from its top floor.

Tibidabo: The highest viewpoint in Barcelona, with the bonus of having an amusement park on site!

Seek out beaches beyond Barceloneta

Barcelona is known as a beach destination, and while the city has plenty of beaches to visit, most tourists flock to crowded Barceloneta and inevitably leave feeling disappointed.

So, if you’re craving some fun in the sun, look beyond Barceloneta and  click here for a great guide to the different beaches around the city.

Do NOT scour the streets of Barcelona for bullfights and flamenco

Looking around Barcelona for bullfights and flamenco is like pillaging Seattle in search of the best New York Style pizza… you could do it, but it’s definitely not the best use of your time.

As mentioned above, Catalonia is rather different from the rest of Spain, and most attempts to fulfill Spanish stereotypes are created to indulge tourist fantasy more than anything else.

For instance, while you may be able to find flamenco performances in Barcelona, this is conventionally more an ‘Andalucia’ thing, and isn’t a Catalan tradition at all.

And as for bullfighting, you should know that bull fights have been outlawed entirely in Catalonia. SO, instead of looking for flamenco and the like, try seeking out more Catalonian traditions instead, like attending a local street festival.

Make time to visit other Barcelona neighbourhoods

Last but not least, I implore you to avoid the key mistake of missing Barcelona’s many diverse neighbourhoods!

After all, Barcelona is more than a tourist hotspot, it’s home to 1.6 million locals who enjoy the city just as much as visitors do, so one of the best things you can do is try to see a more local side to the city, and uncover your own hidden gems along the way.

If you’d like a nudge in the right direction, these are two great neighbourhoods I love:

El Born (AKA La Ribera): Located a stone’s throw from the beach, I love El Born because it is packed with amazing cafes and restaurants, as well as interesting sights like The Santa Maria Basilica and the El Born Cultural Centre. My top tip? Grab yourself a mascarpone croissant from Pastisseria Hofmann and marvel at how you’ve lived this long without it.

Gracia:  Largely hailed as the most authentically Catalonian piece of Barcelona left thanks to a huge population of native Catalonians, Gracia is Barcelona’s hipster hood, teeming with independent boutiques and (organic) grocery stores. You’ll also find plenty of dreamy attractions here including top sights like Park Güell and Casa Vincens.

Safety Tips For Barcelona

Like in many busy European cities, petty crime can be an issue in Barcelona, from pickpocketing scams to fake police officers. Here are some tips for staying safe in Barcelona.

Learn how to avoid pickpockets in Barcelona

Of all the complaints and tourist mistakes I’ve heard about Barcelona, getting duped by pickpockets and scammers is like the ultimate  Barcelona rite of passage.

Make no mistake, pickpockets in Barcelona are PROFESSIONALS that often work in teams all around the city, certainly in tourist hotspots like Las Ramblas and busy hubs like Metro stations.

I’ve already written a full guide on how to avoid pickpockets in Europe , but below are two basic rules of thumb to follow to avoid robbery when you visit Barcelona…

Do NOT bring valuables to the beach

One very important Barcelona tip all visitors should remember is to NEVER bring your valuables with you to the beach, because petty thieves in Barcelona loooove the beach.

When possible, take turns with your travel companions watching belongings, or maybe invest in a beach safe or a waterproof case to bring with you swimming.

Never have your valuables out in the open

The last thing you want is to make yourself into a shiny walking target.

When in Barcelona, remember to not walk around with your phone in your hand, and definitely don’t leave your phone somewhere snatchable, like on a table while dining out, in your pocket on public transport, etc.

Know Barcelona’s emergency numbers

In North America, 911 is the go-to when you have any kind of emergency.

If you face an emergency in Barcelona, there’s a few options for numbers you can call:

Police, ambulance, fire brigade : 112 Police : 091 Local Police : 092 Fire brigade : 080 Accident / Ambulance : 061

English-speaking police officers: +34 932 903 000 (police headquarters), Via Laietana 43

Have a plan in case of a worst case scenario

This isn’t just a good Barcelona travel tip, but a good tip for travelling anywhere – make a plan for the worst case scenario.

Imagine your bags get stolen in Barcelona with your passports and all your cash/cards – what would be your backup plan? What would you do if you lost your phone?

Having a plan in place can minimize stress in the event that anything does happen, and having that peace of mind is very important for any vacation!

Food And Drink Tips For Barcelona

Eating and drinking well is a quintessential part of any Barcelona trip. Here are some Barcelona travel tips related to food and drink!

Avoid tourist trap restaurants (especially on Las Ramblas)

Barcelona is an incredible city with amazing food culture – both traditional and international.

That’s why one of the saddest mistakes you can make in Barcelona is getting caught at a tourist trap restaurant and even more depressingly, paying extortionate amounts for a terrible meal.

The area where this often happens is Barcelona’s (in)famous main drag: Las Ramblas.

Over the years, it has become a commonly accepted rule of thumb that those terrace restaurants along Las Ramblas do nothing but heat up frozen paella.

So, if you’re trying to avoid these establishments, a good sign of imminent tourist trappage = aggressive stock photos, or English words being thrown around in large blocky letters.

Instead of munching on mediocre tourist trap food, I would recommend booking a food tour or getting local tips and searching up restaurant reviews online before you go.

Expect to eat dinner later

If you’re accustomed to eating dinner before 9pm, then know that you’ll probably have to adjust slightly to adapt to typical Barcelona dinner times, which usually begin around 8:30pm or often later. 

Of course, you will still be able to find restaurants open earlier than that, but most locals won’t be eating much earlier than 8:30pm.

Try the “Menu del día”

Many restaurants in Barcelona will offer a “Menu del día” or “Combo of the Day” at lunch time which is typically a set menu that includes your starter, main course, dessert and drink for one low price.

This is a great way to sample local cuisine at a more affordable price, and of course get a great meal for less.

Shop at local markets

Barcelona’s food markets are legendary, and are great places to grab tasty and fresh local fare for an affordable price.

La Boqueria is of course world-famous, but I prefer the Mercato Santa Catarina for a quieter experience.

Consider a food tour

For foodies looking to get a great overview of Catalan cuisine, I can highly recommend doing a food tour while you’re in Barcelona.

I personally did a food tour with Devour Barcelona and had an amazing time.

Not only do you get to sample tons of great local cuisine, you also get a lot of insider local knowledge and context around the region’s most famous foods… and yes, there’s much more to the food scene here than paella (which is actually from Valencia).

Take a cooking class

The only thing better than sampling local cuisine is learning how to make it yourself! How’s that for a delicious souvenir?

Hands down, if you love food, one of the best things to do in Barcelona is taking a cooking class.

Here are some options:

• This market tour + paella cooking experience
• This grandma’s cooking class

Get a croissant from Pastisseria Hofmann

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: this is one of my top Barcelona tips as far as food is concerned…

GO TO PASTISSERIA HOFMANN. Just do it.

The mascarpone croissant from here is still probably the best croissant I’ve ever had in my life – yes, even better than the dozens I’ve eaten in Paris. Make sure you try one – they’re award winning for a reason!

Don’t drink the weird mojitos they sell at Barceloneta Beach

Specifically, I’m referring to the ones being sold by random guys who approach you on the beach. They are painfully gross and watered down. Avoid at all costs!

Barcelona Etiquette & Culture Tips

Wondering how not to be rude in Barcelona? Here are some important must-knows related to Barcelona etiquette to keep in mind before you visit.

Learn some basic Spanish (or Catalan) in advance

Let’s face it: we English speaking tourists usually have it pretty easy when we travel. After all, most of the time, English is widely spoken and understood, so we get to smugly glide on by without worrying about being heard or understood.

Unfortunately, things are a little different in Barcelona.

While you can get by with English, a basic command of Spanish or Catalan is tremendously helpful (and more polite!), especially when you’re at smaller establishments like little cafes, restaurants or supermarkets.

I found myself on numerous occasions relying on my broken Spanish to get by, so my tip is this: at the very least, know your numbers and practice your best pointing 😉

Remember that Barcelona is in Catalonia

While Barcelona is indeed a city in Spain, many visitors forget that it belongs to the state of Catalonia, which is culturally unique from many other parts of Spain, and therefore confusingly different from the Spanish stereotypes and cliches you may have in your head.

In fact, many Catalonians will not refer to themselves as Spanish, and there’s even a pretty heavy separatist movement as well, but that’s another story for another time.

So, don’t forget that Barcelona is in Catalonia, and be ready for plenty of cultural surprises that defy conventional Spanish stereotypes.

Don’t overtip

North Americans like me might feel pressured by habit to tip the same amount that’s expected at home,… but here’s some nice news for your wallet: tipping isn’t really expected in Barcelona.

In fact, even 5% is considered generous for exceptional service. While I’m sure most of the time, tips are appreciated, most locals don’t at all, so there isn’t the expectation that you need to.

Packing Tips For Barcelona

What should you wear in Barcelona? And what shouldn’t you wear? What important things should you definitely pack for your Barcelona trip? Here are my best Barcelona travel tips related to packing.

Bring comfy shoes

Barcelona is a stunning city made for walking, with droolworthy landmarks and sights around every corner.

And so, while you might be tempted to pack the cutest shoes in your wardrobe for your Barcelona trip, I’d suggest packing only practical shoes that you can walk a whole day in. Your feet will thank you later.

Bring a theft-proof bag

Unfortunately, pickpocketing and petty theft is common in Barcelona, particularly with tourists as easy targets.

For peace of mind, you should definitely look into buying theft proof bags  like this one , which is slash-proof and also has an abundance of hidden pockets to keep your belongings safe.

Bring bags with hidden pockets or a money belt

If you don’t want to buy an entirely new bag for your trip, that’s understandable, but you should still take a few measures to “theft-proof” your own bags.

A few ideas would be to pick only bags that have an additional layer of security (e.g. a zippered compartment inside the bag, or in the back where it’s inaccessible to grabby hands), or to simply wear a  money belt  or hidden passport scarf  like this one.

Make sure you have a universal adapter

Power sockets in Barcelona have two round holes and if you’re visiting from overseas, odds are you’ll need an adapter for your plugs to fit.

I’d strongly recommend buying a universal adapter  like this one  if you don’t have one already.

It’s cheap, can be re-used for every trip, and covers you in all situations. Definitely some of the best money I’ve ever spent!

DIY your own travel sized toiletries

This is a very basic  packing tip  I always recommend, but it’s very easy these days to buy small reusable bottles that you can fill with your own toiletries of choice.

This allows you to bring your favourite products with you, and saves needless one-use toiletries from ending up in the landfill.

Need help picking the right one?  Read my guide to  reusable toiletry bottles  for more info.

Have a re-usable bag handy

You can’t go wrong with a tote bag or two, and I always like to keep one in each purse when I travel.

You never know when you’ll need an extra bag, whether to haul goodies back from La Boqueria or simply carrying whatever souvenirs you’ve gotten that day, so remember to pack some just in case!

Bring protective wraps

If you’re travelling with an expensive camera, or anything else fragile, I highly recommend  these amazing protective wraps.

I bought mine a few years ago and use them every trip. They’re padded velcro wraps that you can use to protect…. pretty much anything! So handy and they don’t take up too much space.

Alternatively, you can also look into product-specific protectors, like  these awesome wine protectors  to ensure your precious cargo doesn’t break in transit.

Final Barcelona Travel Tips

Okay, last but not least, here are some miscellaneous Barcelona trip tips that will help ensue your trip to Barcelona is as magical as you always dreamed!

Know how to find free WiFi

WiFi for tourists is a big deal – I get it! Luckily, there’s a lot of free hotspots scattered around Barcelona.

Here are some Barcelona tips for always finding free WiFi:

• Head to (or outside) a McDonalds or Starbucks – they always have WiFI
• Download an app like Wifi Map which will help you find hotspots
• Look on FourSquare, where people will often share the password of protected hotspots in the tips section

Keep receipts for a VAT refund

If you come from outside the EU and plan to do a lot of shopping, you may qualify for a VAT tax refund when you leave Barcelona. This can amount to huge amounts depending on what you buy!

Here’s more info on how to claim your VAT refund before you leave Barcelona.

Use Instagram, Pinterest and Blogs to research more offbeat Barcelona activities

Guidebooks and Google are great, but if you really want to find Barcelona hidden gems that are specific to your interests, be sure to dig deeper!

Psst: I’ve done some of the digging for you in this epic list of things to do in Barcelona.

From local blogs and Instagram accounts to the official tourism board website, there are a lot of great free resources available to help you find unique places to go that are more off the beaten path.

Need more guidance? You might find my guide on  How to Find Cool Stuff to Do Near You  helpful for this.

Use Google Maps to save spots you want to see

Another excellent Barcelona travel tip I have for you is to take advantage of Google Maps for more than just navigation.

One of my favourite  travel hacks  is using Google Maps for saving cool places.

Long story short, I star every location I deem interesting on Google Maps (I do this by pressing the Save button when I search up that spot), which gives me a visual map of all the cool cafes, street art murals, attractions, restaurants, etc. that I’ve saved during my research.

I love doing this because I’ll often end up in new areas during my explorations, and I can just look at my map to see if anything interesting I read about happens to be nearby. Saves a lot of planning!

Do you have any other Barcelona travel Tips to add?

Let me know in the comments! I hope you enjoyed this guide to visiting Barcelona. Safe travels!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

1 thought on “50+ Helpful Barcelona Travel Tips & Tricks: Must-Knows Before You Visit Barcelona!”

At La Boqueria they sell awesome combinations of blended fruit drinks. Our tip is to walk past the stalls at the front of the market and head to the second and third rows of stalls. You’ll find the same drinks, except they’re quite a bit cheaper than the stalls at the front of the market.

Barcelona’s La Boqueria should perhaps come with a health warning because there’s so much to-die-for food & treats wherever you look!

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10 Tourist Mistakes NOT To Make in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most exciting cities to visit in Europe. But being one of the top tourist hotspots means there are plenty of activities which are overhyped . And these activities are not worth your valuable travel time. From tourist trap restaurants to pickpockets along busy beaches, here are some things to avoid on your next trip to Barcelona .

#1 Don’t Dine along La Rambla

La Rambla is one of the busiest streets in Barcelona and is notorious for being full of tourist traps. Mainly regarding restaurants. So many establishments along this wealthy avenue charge insanely high prices. And you are getting less than mediocre food, most of which aren’t even cooked authentically. Their paellas are reheated and the “fresh” fish is often from frozen. Skip eating at any place with an English menu out front or even worse …a talking head inside a paella.

Instead, Head down to La Boqueria Market

La Boqueria Market is an excellent alternative to the restaurants on La Rambla. Wander the market and explore the different small kiosks. Pick and choose the perfect mixture of snacks and ingredients for a little picnic. Prices are reasonable, and the food is as fresh as can be! You can take your goodies over to the scenic Plaça Reial , just six minutes down the road. This gorgeous square is the best place to sit and enjoy your food with a view.

#2 Don’t Forget to make Bookings in Advance

Barcelona, especially during the busy season, is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations.  And for a good reason!  There are so many amazing architectural buildings to visit, great food to eat and incredible culture to experience. But you’ll want to book the reservations in advance to see some of these places or eat at a famed restaurant. Places like the  Sagrada Família  have really long lineups. Sometimes, it takes over an hour to get inside. Other tours, like the  Palau de Musica , sometimes get totally booked up. Without booking far in advance, you might miss your chance to see these places at all.

Instead , Plan Out your Must-Sees

I would advise booking your reservations as soon as you book your flights. But be sure not to overschedule your vacation. Secure those all-important must-see attractions, but leave the rest of your day open around that one booking. That way, you will see what you’ve dreamed of but can still come across new discoveries you didn’t plan on.

#3 Don’t Pay to See the Monument Zone inside Park Güell

Now, before you get up in arms, don’t worry! I’m not telling you to skip one of the most amazing parts of Barcelona!  Park Güell   was created by the famous Catalan architect  Antoni Gaudí . The park is one of the most imaginative and symbolic works of art of the Catalan’  modernism ‘ movement. Tickets to enter the monument zone, which contains the most stunning pieces of Gaudi’s architecture, cost  10 euros . And while that’s not a lot, the lineup to get inside can be  staggering  long! Even with a timed ticket to enter, you’ll need to arrive much earlier to wait in line during busy times of the year. So, if you’re pressed for  time and money , you can skip the paid entry to the  monument zone .

Instead, Visit the Forested Area for FREE

Park Güell is divided into two zones;  the Monumental Zone  (paid entry) and the  Forest Zone . The  forest area  is adjacent to the monumental zone and occupies 8 more hectares. This area actually accounts for 90% of the park’s woodland. Although you might not be able to see Gaudi’s ceramic creations, there are plenty of FREE opportunities to see Gaudi’s architecture around the city. 

Instead, spend the morning wandering around exploring the masterful landscaping, gorgeous walking trails and lush gardens. You’ll be able to find vibrant exotic flora, local fauna and some unimaginable views. If you get here as the sun rises, you’re in for a real treat! Since  Park Guell  is located high up and north of the city, youy get the most beautiful picturesque view across Barcelon from this vantage pointa.

#4 Don’t Forget to Be Aware of Pickpockets

Barcelona has a huge petty crime problem. Pickpocketing is very common. There are so many stories of people putting their bags down for a second, and when they look back, it’s gone. Since pickpocketing is usually “ theft under a thousand,”  often the criminals will only have to pay a small fine. And that’s  if they even get caught at all.  But this shouldn’t prevent you from having a great time in this city.

Instead, Keep your wits about you and keep everything S ecure

Being aware is the key! If you prepare for it accordingly, you can go smoothly about your travels without worry. I had a tiny little lock on my knapsack I used to secure the closure. This way, I knew even when I didn’t pay too much attention to who was behind me, there was no way of slipping a hand inside. This meant I didn’t even worry about the subways or busy streets. Most pickpockets are just looking for a quick and easy theft. They don’t want to go to the trouble of tearing your bag off you. So, keeping things locked up is the best way to keep yourself safe. Knapsacks can also be worn in front to keep an eye on them.

Make sure your passports are locked up in your hotels. While I don’t love the look of a money belt, I do often use those  money necklaces  to keep small bills and loose change close at hand. But out of the public eye.

#5 Don’t ONLY Drink Sangria

While I would never say you should avoid Sangri altogether, there are way better things to drink here. Some Catalans might turn their nose up at the thought of drinking Sangria in Barcelona. This is because it’s not traditionally a Catalan beverage. But for those travellers who might not be visiting any other part of Spain, this might be their only chance to sample real Sangria. So drink it if you must. But know that it will usually be subpar wine and soda, and there are much better local drinks to try.

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Instead , Try out the Catalan specialty, Cava!

Cava is Catalonian sparkling wine. It’s sweet, tart and refreshing! There are so many different regions of the Catalonian cava to explore, each with its own distinct flavour profile. Ask your server for their recommendations I loved seeing the response this gets since locals are very passionate about their Cava and adore seeing tourists asking for something other than Sangria.

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#6 Don’t Visit Girona on a Bus Tour

Girona  is one of the most magical historical towns to see and the best day trips from Barcelona. Girona is best known for its medieval architecture, walled Old Quarter and the Roman fortress. Many people will visit Girona on a bus tour, which usually also stops at a few other places along the way. This means you’ll be rushed through the city and won’t have the time to explore at your own pace and focus on the things that matter to you.

Instead, Go by Public Transit

Many people don’t know just how easy it is to visit Girona by public transport. The AVE high-speed trains run from Barcelona to Girona in under 40 minutes and for less than 10 euros! Trains run multiple times throughout the day, making it easy for you to escape the city and head out into the medieval countryside in under an hour. This way, you can stop into shops, wander the alleys, explore the tiny yet sentimental museums, sit by the riverside and just relax.

#7 Don’t Spend a Beach Day on La Barceloneta

La Barceloneta  is Barcelona’s most famous sandy beach. And while its close proximity might make a beach day a tempting proposal for many travellers, the reality of this spot is less than appealing. La Barceloneta is full of tourists, teaming with pickpockets, tourist traps and overpriced food and beverage. Overall, it’s a waste of time to make your way down here and then have a stressful time while trying to relax.

Instead , Head to Costa Brava

Catalonia itself has some fantastic beaches just a few hours away from Barcelona. If you take the train to the beach village of  Costa Brava , you’ll have the chance to visit this quaint seaside village but also dive into one of the most stunning beaches with beautiful vistas in all of Catalonia. There are some incredible small bays to explore and discover, and the crystal blue waters are some of the most impressive anywhere around the world. Costa Brava can be reached by train in under two and a half hours, or if you can have a car, you’re in for a fantastic journey on the road to the beach with so many different places on the way to stop and enjoy the scenery.

If you’re not looking to travel that far away, consider heading to the  Playa de Bogatell . Playa de Bogatell, also known as Bogatell Beach, is one of Barcelona’s popular urban beaches, situated in the city’s Poblenou neighbourhood near the Port Olímpic area. The water is crystal clear, and the fact that it isn’t right in the center of the tourist quarter means you’ll find prices at the beach bars aren’t quite as high as in the Barceloneta.

#8 Don’t take a Hop-on, Hop-off Bus

Although a bus tour may be a good way to get an overview of the city, there is a lot you miss out on. Your guide is a pair of headphones that can’t answer questions or point out any of the good bars or restaurants you should visit. Nor can the bus take you through the back streets of the city, where you find Barcelona’s hidden gems and real history. On the bus, you see, rather than feel the city, you become acquainted with it, rather than friends.

Instead, Take A Buena Vista Bike Tour

On a  Buena Vista Bike Tour , the guide is a local who knows the city backwards and can not only tell you all about Barcelona and its history but can answer all the oddball questions you may have, like what time people go to bed in Barcelona? It’s like having a friend show you around the city. The  Buena Vista Tours  are all made up of small groups, so it’s a friendly, laid-back experience where everybody gets to know each other – some tours even include a picnic on the beach. What’s more, this is pedal power – no emissions.  Buena Vista  also specializes in private tours, so if you are a small group or a family, they can  customize a tour  to suit you.

#9 Don’t Stick to Visiting only Gaudí Designs

While I will admit that Gaudí’s influence over the design and atmosphere of the city is undebatable, he was not the  ONLY  architect who helped shape the artistic and creative nature of Barcelona. In creating the ‘ Modernisme,’  Gaudi, along with several other influential artists, worked together to create this unique cultural movement which makes Barcelona the artistic landmark city it is today.

Instead , Learn about other Modernisme Artists

Domènech I Montaner  is another artist who really helped shape the direction of  modernism,  and his work best works to check out in Barcelona are the  Hospital de Sant Pau  and the  Palau de la Música Catalana .  Casa Amatller , located right beside Gaudi’s  Casa Batllo , is often mistaken for being by Gaudi, but it was designed by  Puig I Cadafalch,  another influential architect. 

If you’re interested in learning more about Modernism’s art, design, and architecture, I can’t recommend the  Museu del Modernisme Català  more! Here, you can peruse some incredible pieces from the Modernisme era, and although it’s a smaller collection, it feels like it perfectly sums up what Modernism is all about, and you really get a great sense of what they were trying to achieve in Catalonia through this artistic endeavour.

#10 Don’t Stop for the Street Artists along La Rambla

Although La Rambla is one of the most famous streets in the world, and there are some gems to be found along the way, there is also a lot of cheesy, touristy tat that comes along with popularity. One of which is the street performers who cruise this strip. No matter the time of day, it seems as if this classical street is littered from end to end with Spidermen slinging fake webs for crowds or shoddily painted gold “mannequins” trying to attract attention.

Some tourists take a picture with them just for fun, and they are often forced quite aggressively into paying for the “privilege.” Most of the time, I think these are easily avoided by not engaging at all, but it’s frustrating to see them take up so much attention away from the beautiful architecture around them.

Instead , Go on a Street Art Tour

Instead of paying attention to these tacky “street artists,” pay attention to the  street ART ! Barcelona has always been a haven for creatives, which is still true today. The Bohemians have taken to the streets in Barcelona, and there is so much incredible art to be found on doorways and in alleys, hidden just steps away from huge tourist attractions.

One of the best ways to see these works of art and get the story behind them is on a  guided tour  from a company like  Barcelona Street Style . It’s one of the most unique tour options in the city, and the people guiding the tour are so passionate about the art that it makes a difference in how you approach the designs.

Hopefully, with these tips, your travels around Barcelona will go off without a hitch!

Happy Travel Adventurer!

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How tourism is killing Barcelona – a photo essay

One of the coolest destinations in Europe just two decades ago, Barcelona is now so overcrowded it has become a tourist theme park – and is losing the character that made it so popular

I t’s 9am on a hot August morning and timed tickets to visit Barcelona’s emblematic Sagrada Família basilica have already sold out. Only a few years ago you could turn up and queue for maybe half an hour to get in but with the soaring numbers of visitors to the city (around 30 million last year) anyone who arrives on spec is likely to be disappointed.

Those who have tickets amuse themselves in the queue by taking selfies in front of the temple’s ornate nativity facade. Groups of tourists trail behind their lollipop-waving guides. Street vendors spread out their wares on the pavement – pirated designer sunglasses and tacky memorabilia - until a heavily-armed police patrol moves them on. At the stalls around the square you can buy soft toys, Gaudí ashtrays and Barça scarves.

Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece was begun in 1882 and is due for completion in 2026. The work was intended to be funded by penitent sinners – but there are more tourists than repenters around these days (it is the city’s most popular destination, with 4.5 million visitors in 2016), so tourists are footing the bill.

The Sagrada Família, Barcelona’s most popular destination

Even tourists who book tickets for popular sights such as the Sagrada Família (left) Casa Batlló (right) are in for a long wait

At Casa Batlló, Gaudí’s apartment building in the busy Passeig de Gràcia, the queue snakes around the corner, and this is the queue for people who have bought advance tickets at €28.50. They wait behind a sign that says “Skip the Line”. The woman at the door says the wait for people with tickets is around 20 minutes. After a pause she shrugs: “OK, perhaps more like 40.”

Barcelona remains a beautiful city, one of the most attractive in Europe, huddled between the mountains and the sea, with a wonderful climate and wealth of architecture and history.

It remains a beautiful city but there is now tat for sale at every turn

It used to pride itself on the quality of its design and was dubbed the capital of cool in the late 20th century. It is far from cool now though, and a day traipsing around the tourist hotspots reveals how it has become the home of tat, with the magic word “Barcelona” printed on any old junk, from straw hats and teddy bears to beach towels and coffee mugs. Not to mention all manner of ceramic creatures made in Gaudí’s trencadís style of broken tiles.

La Rambla … Barcelona’s most famous street is now its epicentre of overtourism

La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous street but for residents it became its least-loved long ago, so crowded as to be virtually impassable for nine months of the year.

From the moment it was created in the 18th century La Rambla became a place where the wealthy could flaunt their finery and the poor could hustle and everyone could breathe, outside the walls of the crowded mediaeval city. It was never chic, indeed, it was always slightly edgy and marginal – but now there is nothing but souvenir shops, interspersed by McDonald’s and shabby restaurants serving kebabs and paella a startling shade of chrome yellow.

Shuffling room only on La Rambla

At all hours, young men invite you sotto voce to a “coffee shop” à la Amsterdam. This is something new. At night there are prostitutes, which isn’t new, except now most of the women have been trafficked.

Last year a consortium was appointed to come up with a plan to attract residents back to La Rambla. They have consulted widely and details of the plan are expected to be published soon, but they have their work cut out.

“La Rambla is above all a business,” says Fermín Villar, president of the Friends of La Rambla, which represents the street’s residential and commercial interests. “Every year more than 100 million people walk along this street. Imagine, if each person spends only one euro.”

Itziar González, the architect who heads the symposium, says the first task is to convince people that La Rambla can be saved. “It’s not just about changing things,” she says, “it’s about changing minds.”

Feeding the pigeons on Plaza Catalunya

It’s doubtful, however, whether the Boqueria food market on La Rambla can be saved. Once a mecca for cooks and foodies where you could buy everything from truffles to edible insects, the stallholders are one by one caving in to the force majeure of tourism, with fresh fish, meat and vegetables giving way to juice bars and assorted takeaways. The very reason for visiting la Boqueria – even as a tourist – will soon cease to exist.

Once one of the finest food markets in Europe, the Boqueria market is now a tourist trap

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most densely populated cities, with few open spaces. So when the seafront at Barceloneta was opened up in time for the 1992 Olympic Games it gave the city breathing space, just as La Rambla had two centuries earlier. It became the new place to pasear , the evening or Sunday stroll that is such a part of Spanish life.

But Barceloneta has become another no-go zone for residents as it has degenerated into a sort of urban Lloret de Mar. Lie on the crowded beach and every few minutes a vendor will offer you beer or water or a mojito, a massage, a henna tattoo and sometimes weed. Rickshaws ply the waterfront while shirtless young men whizz by on electric scooters.

The beach district of Barceloneta has become a virtual no-go zone for local residents

The saddest thing about all this is the city is rapidly losing its identity and becoming like everywhere else. A new word has been coined to describe this apparently unstoppable process: parquetematización – the act of becoming a theme park. Barcelona has become an imitation of itself.

Looking for a holiday with a difference? Browse  Guardian Holidays  to find a range of fantastic trips

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20 Barcelona travel tips & hacks | First-timers in Barcelona

Things to do in Barcelona Barcelona Travel Guide Barcelona Travel Tips

There are many reasons to keep Barcelona in your bucket list. The Catalonian capital is one of the best places to bask in the Iberian sun. The nightlife at Barcelona is glorious and the architecture is bound to take your breath away. Barcelona is also home to some of the most friendly people in Europe. However, that doesn’t mean that the city is free of vices that afflict all popular tourist spots in the world. There are numerous tourist traps waiting to bait inexperienced travelers. If there is a language barrier, you are even more susceptible to end up with bitter experience, just like many other visitors. This is why we have compiled an exhaustive list of tips, tricks, and warnings that are certain to come in handy when you visit Barcelona. Read on to know our curation of Barcelona Travel Tips along with insider tips on saving money on food, transport and other quick hacks!

Barcelona Essentials

Starting with the essentials, here's what you must know before getting to Barcelona. Make sure you pack the right travel adapters. Also, brush up your Spanish maybe!

Language Spanish

Time zone GMT+2

Country Code +34

Socket Type F

Currency Euros €

Best Time To Visit Barcelona

April to July or September to November

Barcelona is blessed with a temperate climate, owing to the proximity to the sea. As such, Barcelona sees a steady flow of tourists during the entire year. So if you want to visit Barcelona during a quiet time of the year, April to July and September to November is your best bet. These are the shoulder seasons for tourism in Barcelona. A number of festivals and concerts take place in the city during this time, and the lower footfall means you can enjoy the beauty of Barcelona in peace.

Barcelona Travel Tips 101 - A First Timer's Holy Grail

Below are the tips and hacks you're here for. Read on and thank me later!

#1 Beware of pickpockets in the city

Starting with the obvious, Barcelona is an immensely popular destination. No matter where you go in the city, you are bound to encounter some crowd. And this very crowd fosters pickpockets. So secure your money before leaving your room.

#2 Order Vermouth and Cava at the bar

You might immediately feel the need to order a sangria when you step inside a Barcelona bar, but you would be better off ordering a caramel and cinnamon infused vermouth. If you want to go fancier, order a cava, the staple white wine of Catalonia.

#3 La Barceloneta Beach should be Plan Z

You would hear a major section of Barcelona tourists say that La Barceloneta beach is a must visit. However, the sheer volume of visitors to that beach renders it completely saturated. Visit the relatively less popular ones, like San Sebastiá, Bogatell, Nova Icária, Sant Miquel, and Mar Bella.

#4 Plan to attend one of the many Barcelona festivals

Yes, coming to Barcelona during a festival might drop you into a sea of people, but at some point, you have to stop and think why do so many people attend these celebrations? Come to Barcelona around August-September and experience the festive side of Catalonia.

#5 Attend a concert at Palau de Musica Catalana

If you're a seasoned traveler, you might have been to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Palau de Musica Catalana is another heritage site. There is a reason that UNESCO felt this venue deserved the title, and you must attend a concert here to find it out for yourself. If you don't want to shell out for a concert, you can take the economically priced Palau de Musica tour and get a preview of the grandeur.

#6 Las Ramblas = Tourist Traps

Las Ramblas attracts a huge chunk of the tourist population in Barcelona. As a result, it is also the most famous hunting ground for tourist trappers. Starting from mass produced and low-quality street food to overpriced dance bars, Las Ramblas has plenty of dark tricks up its sleeve.

#7 Revel in the street art of Barcelona

The artistic inclination of Barcelona is extraordinary. Apart from breathtaking architecture, the city also features some of the best street arts in Europe. Worth the mention are the Peix at Carrer de Ramon and El Gato del Raval at Rambla del Raval.

#8 For the best panoramas, hike to Bunkers del Carmel

If you don’t mind a hike, you could climb to Bunkers del Carmel. This is a point from where the entire city of Barcelona is visible with the sea in the backdrop. The bunker was once used for defense purposes due to its strategic position.

#9 Get lost in the Gothic Quarters

The city of Barcelona is fairly urban. If at any point you wish to visit a place away from the commercial polish, the Gothic Quarter is where you should go. With its history, walking around this neighborhood will surely take you back in time. Keep the maps away and take a wrong turn. You'll be pleasantly surprised. Check out this interesting Gothic Quarter walking tour that acquaints you with the secrets of the street and Cathedral of the Sea

#10 Have a drink with the legends at Bar Marsella

Barcelona has been a cultural melting pot for quite a while. Numerous icons from various fields of art were known to frequent Barcelona. Bar Marsella is a long-standing institution in the city and was visited by the likes of Salvador Dali and Ernest Hemingway. Visiting this bar might get you close to these respected figures in history.

#11 You get the best souvenirs from flea markets

Undoubtedly, flea markets are the best place to discover gems and take them home for a reasonable price. Visit the Els Encants Vells flea market to buy paintings, jewelry, cutlery, and other articles at a very low price. Perfect for souvenir shopping.

#12 Gorge on some quintessential Spanish Tapas

Tapas are small portions of food which you are meant to get as an accompaniment with the drinks. However, in Barcelona, you can buy these small plates of food which come in an extraordinarily wide variety. You may even try tapas and drinks tours if you want.

39 Things To Do In Spain’s Wonder City

#13 go on a gaudi trail.

Many of Antoni Gaudi’s buildings are now ticketed and come with a full tour. However, Gaudi doesn’t just display his magic in the interior of the building. You can walk around the neighborhood appreciating the exterior of the likes of Casa Batllo and Casa Mila for free. However, if you have the money ( and interest ), you should most definitely step inside his buildings. They are magical!

Read more about Gaudi's best works and taking a Gaudi Trail by yourself .

#14 If you had to visit one of Gaudi's wonders, let it be Park Guell

One place we do recommend for an in-depth visit is Antoni Gaudi’s Park Guell. Despite being located a bit far from the city center, Park Guell is worth the trip as it packs a lot of Gaudi’s works in the limited area. Moreover, you can pack a picnic if you want and make a day of your visit.

Discounted Park Guell Tickets

#15 There's no leaving Barcelona without some Flamenco

Small bars around Barcelona provide some of the best entertainment in the city. If you wish to experience Flamenco, skip the ones advertised at Las Ramblas and retire to a bar that where you can see this beautiful dance form unfold. Here are a few tips you'd like to know before heading for a flamenco show in Barcelona

Tickets to best Flamenco shows in Barcelona right now

#16 Arrive early at the nightclubs

Barcelona sleeps famously late. So arriving at nightclubs at around 11:30 can be considered early. What this does is it frees you from the exorbitant entry fee as the night rolls on. Arriving early and staying in can be a good way to save some money.

#17 Respect the political scenario of Barcelona

Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, the richest part of Spain. The financial discrepancy and cultural difference have, over the years, caused a rift between Catalonia and the Spanish government. Refrain from making offensive comments on the scenario as it is bound to get you in trouble.

#18 Football fans cannot miss Camp Nou

Home to FC Barcelona, Camp Nou has recently been renovated and is swankier than ever. By visiting the Camp Nou, you are not just walking into a mere football stadium, you are stepping into and experiencing history. Also, Camp Nou is the largest football stadium in Europe and second largest in the world, in terms of capacity. Gotta see it! Read all about taking a Camp Nou Tour .

Discounted Camp Nou Tickets

#19 A day trip to Montserrat can be refreshing

The Montserrat mountain is a mere 50 km from Barcelona, Spain, and is thronged by tourists all year. Relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery, pray to the Black Madonna, hike up to the top of the mountain and watch the sunrise, view artistic masterpieces at the museum and listen in bliss to the famous boy choir in the Basilica - the possibilities are endless here. Here's what you must know before taking a day trip from Barcelona to Montserrat .

#20 If you're traveling with kids, hit up the Zoo or Aquarium

Not too many people know about the Barcelona Aquarium and Barcelona Zoo , but both these attractions are a great place to keep your kids entertained. And, if you're an animal lover, you'll love them too. Spend a day with exotic breeds you may never have seen before and make memories for a lifetime.

Tips For Saving Money On Transportation In Barcelona

Book flights in advance.

Barcelona is a hot tourist destination. Flights in and out of the city are always in high demand. In order to not blow half your savings on flight tickets, make your bookings in advance. This will also help expedite the planning process.

Walk to attractions around the city

The city of Barcelona is quite delightful. It has aesthetically pleasing architecture and friendly people. If you have to travel a short distance from one attraction to another, take a walk. You will be able to see the city from close proximity as well.

Take the train from the airport terminal 2

Reach terminal 2 after landing at the Barcelona airport and take the RENFE train to Passeig de Gracia. You can then take a metro from there to the city. This a significantly cheap alternative to travel into the city.

Grab hold of the Barcelona Pass

The Barcelona Pass allows you to reap the benefits of big savings on both time and money, with or without a handy travel card, giving you unlimited access to the city's reliable public transport. Your attractions and travel needs are sorted with this one pass in hand. Check it out here .

Avoid cabs if you can help it

There are numerous modes of transport available in Barcelona. Cabs are, by far, the priciest of the lot. Try to leave for your destination so that you don’t have to hurriedly look for a cab at the last moment.

Tips For Saving Money On Eating In Barcelona

Eat street food at the gothic quarters.

The Gothic Quarters of Barcelona go back centuries. It is drenched in history. As you familiarize yourself with the history of this locality, try the delectable street food from the hawkers. The one item that you absolutely cannot miss is the churro con chocolate.

Discover local cuisine at Barcelona’s neighborhoods

Local neighborhoods of Barcelona aren’t just famous for the mind-blowing architecture. The lanes of Poble Sec and Sants are lined with small but proficient restaurants and cafes. Instead of throwing money at the stalls at popular tourist spots, opt for the authentic dishes here.

Tip around 10% at restaurants

While it is not a stringent rule, a tip of about 10% is standard in Barcelona. So even if you are habituated to pay more than that in your country, remember that 10% is just enough.

Try the set menus for lunch

Menu of the day or menu del dia is probably the best and the cheapest way to explore the local cuisine in Barcelona. Several cafes and restaurants in the city offer a set lunch menu for as little as 15 euros. It includes a main, a dessert, and complimentary drinks.

Drink outdoors instead of bars and restaurants

This one is quite obvious. Restaurants charge steep service charges to bring your drink to your table. Bars also charge an entry fee late at night. Instead, grab a bottle of your favorite liquor from the shop and drink outdoors. It saves money and multiplies the fun.

More Tips To Save Money In Barcelona

• Visit museums for free : In Barcelona, the entry fee of many museums is waived on the first Sunday of every month. Given that these museums are the best places to discover the history and culture of Catalonia and Spain, you should not pass on this terrific opportunity.
• Book tickets in advance and online : In this day and age, online tickets are available for virtually every attraction. If you are heading to Barcelona, you should book online tickets in advance for as many attractions as possible. Not only will you save time, but you may also score lucrative discounts.
• Haggle hard when shopping : Haggling is a skill and you can use it to your advantage when shopping in the streets of Barcelona. There are numerous outdoor markets in Barcelona that are perfect for shopping for souvenirs. If you haggle, you can buy twice as much for the same amount of money.
• Rent apartments and airbnbs instead of hotels : Hotels come with a certain level of luxury. However, if you want to divert more of your kitty towards exploring the gems of Barcelona, you should opt for an apartment or airbnb instead. You can save money on food by cooking for yourself in the kitchen. Hostels in Barcelona are great too and most of them have free food or even kitchens.
• Visit during the shoulder season : The low seasons see a significant decline in the number of tourists. As such, it is not uncommon for hotels and motels to slash their rates significantly in order to attract more tourists. Low season in Barcelona is between January and March.

Top 10 Things To Do in Barcelona

I'm sure you have your itinerary all sorted, but here are my top 10 favourites in Barcelona. If any of these are missing from your itinerary, make sure you squeeze them in! There are a few recommended tours for each attraction, so if you haven't grabbed tickets as yet, now would be a great time.

1 Sagrada Familia

Barcelona is home to some of the world's most renowned architects and a treasure trove of stunning architectural marvels. Sagrada Familia, a Barcelona landmark designed by legendary architect Antoni Gaudí, is not one you can afford to miss. Any trip to the Catalan region would be incomplete without a visit to Europe's largest unfinished church.

2 Park Guell

The Park Guell is a representation of Gaudi's vision for English garden cities, located on an area of 18 hectares. This park, which was designed using natural elements as inspiration, features beautiful walkways, vast gardens and intricate sculptures.

3 Casa Mila

Casa Milà is a magnificent structure in its own right. What makes the building's history remarkable is that it changed hands several times and was on the verge of collapse before being restored. The rooms of the facility were used as apartments and workplaces. Gaudi utilized a variety of natural materials for the outside, while the interiors were brightly colored.

Camp Nou is Europe's largest football stadium, as well as the world's fourth-largest in terms of capacity. At a time, this enormous arena can accommodate up to 99,354 spectators! This magnificent edifice is an important landmark in football history; why not? After all, it is home to one of the most decorated and successful clubs in the world, FC Barcelona.

5 Flamenco Show

Flamenco is a passionate dance that is characterized by quick beats, hand clapping, finger snapping, and guitar playing. The performance is highly evocative and entertaining to watch. Watching a Flamenco show in Barcelona is something you absolutely must, must do.

6 PortAventura World

PortAventura World, located on the coast of rural Spain, is a family-friendly theme park with an excellent variety of on-site hotels, bars, and restaurants. It's packed with nerve-racking rides for all age groups and includes a wonderful range of on-site accommodations, bars, and restaurants to immerse yourself in.

7 Palau De La Musica

Palau de la Música Catalana, the spectacularly ornate concert hall located in the lovely Sant Pere sector of Barcelona, is one of the most beautiful buildings in all of Spain. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was designated as such because it is a symbol of their past and heritage, is a testament to Catalan culture and architecture.

8 Poble Espanyol

Poble Espanyol, which means "Spanish Village" in Catalan, is a beautiful blend of Spanish architecture and tradition located on Montjuic Hill's slopes. Poble Espanyol Barcelona is the ideal location to acquire a large mouthful of Catalan cultural sangria without having to travel across Spain.

9 Tibidabo Amusement Park

Tibidabo Amusement Park is one of the world's oldest open-air amusement parks, located in Barcelona on the Collserola Ridge. The park is named for its location on Tibidabo, which is the tallest peak in the Collserola range.

10 Gran Teatre del Liceu

The Gran Teatre del Liceu, often known as simply the Liceu, is a beautiful mix of 19th and 21st-century architecture. This theatre has withstood Spain's most tumultuous eras and evolved into the jewel of Catalan culture despite its age.

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What should i avoid in barcelona.

• Picking fights or getting too drunk in public
• Failing to observe basic safety precautions
• Walking around alone at night in unsafe neighborhoods
• Disrespecting local customs and traditions

What is the best time of year to visit Barcelona?

The best time to visit Barcelona is between the months of April and October. The weather is usually mild and sunny during these months, making it ideal for exploring the city. Keep in mind that peak season is from June to August, so you may want to avoid traveling during these times if you want to avoid large crowds.

What do I need to know before going to Barcelona?

• The city is large and spread out, so you will need to use public transportation or walk in order to get around
• Be prepared for pickpockets, as they are common in crowded areas
• Make sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as paella and sangria
• If you want to visit popular tourist attractions, such as the Sagrada Familia, it is best to purchase tickets in advance

Is Barcelona expensive?

Barcelona can be expensive, especially during peak season. However, there are ways to save money while in the city. For example, you can eat at cheaper restaurants, use public transportation instead of taxis, and stay in a less expensive hotel. Additionally, there are many free attractions that you can visit, such as the parks and museums.

Is Barcelona safe to walk at night?

Barcelona is generally safe to walk around at night, but there are certain areas that you should avoid. It is best to stay in well-lit and populated areas, and to avoid walking alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods. If you do need to walk alone at night, be sure to take precautions such as carrying a pepper spray or keeping your phone close.

Why does Barcelona smell like sewer?

In some areas, the sewers are old and not well maintained, which can cause odors to seep up into the streets. Additionally, during hot weather, the sewers can release methane gas, which can also cause a foul smell. If you notice a strong smell of sewer while in Barcelona, it is best to avoid the area and move to a different part of the city.

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Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Is Barcelona Overrated?

“Barcelona,” Don Quixote exclaimed, is a “fountain of courtesy, shelter of strangers, hospice to the poor, land of the valiant, avenger of the offended, reciprocator of firm friendship, a city unique in its location and beauty.”

– Miguel de Cervantes, 1605

In other words, people have been raving about Barcelona and how incredible it is for centuries now. It’s consistently ranked as one of the best places in the world to visit .

And I’m not going to lie – I think it’s pretty fabulous!

But. Over the past few years, things have changed a bit in Barcelona. In just the five or so years I’ve been here, there’s been a sharp uptick in things that are making the city much less enjoyable, both for visitors and for locals.

So – is Barcelona overrated? Let’s talk about what’s people don’t like about the Catalan capital and have a look.

“Barcelona just wasn’t as amazing as I’d expected.”

Have you ever gone to see a movie that everyone said was incredible – and walked out thinking it was just OK?

Having sky-high expectations is definitely one of the reasons people end up feeling a little bit disappointed by Barcelona. It’s really hard for anywhere to measure up to the expectation of being the most amazing place ever.

One of the reasons I loved Barcelona so much when I first visited was that it was a total surprise to me. I had no idea what the Sagrada Familia was, and just one person I knew had said Barcelona was a fun city to visit. Yep, total blank slate.

Is it really that amazing? Well, I love it. But honestly, I’m not sure if I would have loved it so much had I visited for the first time this year. That brings me to my next point…

(Quick side note – if you’re interested in expectations and how they can affect your perception of a place, this article is a fascinating read!)

“Barcelona is too crowded”

One biiiig issue in Barcelona is the sheer amount of tourism the city receives. It’s not a big city, whether you count in terms of population or in terms of the physical area it takes up.

In other words, there isn’t that much space, and there are whole lot of visitors.

It’s definitely noticeable how much tourism has exploded in the city just in the past five years.

Going to once mostly local events can be a nightmare with the crowds. I didn’t even bother going to one I liked this year because last year’s event was so packed. When the Gràcia neighborhood’s summer festival was on, it turned my regular 10-minute walk back to my apartment into a 30-minute crawl inching through streets shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of people.

It gets to the point when you have to line up to walk down a regular street at some popular events. This is not fun for anybody.

“Barcelona is too touristy”

Of course, the number of visitors is only part of the tourism problem . Not only are there tons more people, but there are also tons more tourist traps – tacky souvenir shops, overpriced restaurants serving terrible food, and massive tours everywhere you go. 

Vacation rental apartments are so popular that some areas of the city have a s many short-term rentals as actual residences. Imagine that an entire half of your neighborhood is visitors – and what that might mean for local neighborhood life. It also pushes up rental prices.

And it doesn’t help that Barcelona is known as a party-friendly destination. That means a lot of people come here to really let loose. Having a good time is not the issue; being destructive and/or disgusting because you’re only here for two days is .

Getting off the tourist track has become increasingly difficult. That’s a real shame for both visitors and residents.

There are so many fantastic things to do and see here, but a lot of traditional stuff is disappearing to be replaced by souvenir shops. That’s no good for locals, but it also takes away the special thing that makes Barcelona worth visiting. 

Nobody wants to go somewhere else to feel like they’re at a theme park, complete with waiting in line and overpriced, terrible food.

As I stopped to check Facebook briefly, a news article popped up about a contest to take back the Ramblas for residents to enjoy again – to give you an idea. That’s one of those places that used to be a place locals and visitors liked, but now it’s all tourists.

“Barcelona is nothing like other places I visited in Spain”

There are lots of Catalans who will be pleased to hear you say that! Barcelona really is a bit different , and a lot of things that people typically associate with Spain (tapas, flamenco, etc.) aren’t traditional to Barcelona.

The city’s overall vibe and attitude is also quite different, and simply by virtue of being a big city, it’s distinct from smaller places in Spain (say, Sevilla ).

That’s part of what I love about Spain; traveling around the country can feel like going to lots of different smaller countries rather than one unified one. But, that also means what you love about one place in Spain might not exist in Barcelona.

“Barcelona is too expensive”

Barcelona is relatively inexpensive, though that’s in comparison to other major European cities. Compared to other places in Spain , you’re looking at one of the most expensive places in the country.

The summer before last, I went to the south of Spain with a couple of girlfriends. We challenged ourselves to stick to a €5 per person limit for eating out, and it was totally possible.

Here? Under €10 you can definitely do, but it’s not insanely cheap like, say, Sevilla is. It can also be tricky to find places that are in that price range, especially near major sights.

Then, depending on what attractions you want to visit, you may end up spending some cash. The Sagrada Familia, for instance, start from €15 per person – and double in price if you want to see the towers, too.

That’s not to say there aren’t free and cheap things to do; there are! Still, you may want to build a bit of extra padding into your budget. After all, once you’re here, it would be silly to not go to the Sagrada Familia.

“I got all my stuff stolen”

Yep, this unfortunately happens. Keep an eye, or even better a hand, on your stuff at all times. Barcelona does have a big pickpocket problem .

“I just didn’t like Barcelona”

It happens! I didn’t love Paris, either; if you just don’t like somewhere, there’s no need to fuss about it.   It really is no big deal, and there are definitely lots of reasons people don’t love it. No matter how many famous writers say it’s amazing. 🙂

So, do I think Barcelona gets too much credit? I think it’s hard for it to live up to its huge reputation; I also think it’s hard to enjoy a lot of the visitor aspects of it just because they haven’t done a great job of balancing promoting the city and protecting what makes it special. The city has changed over the past few years, and not for the better.

Having said that, I love it and still think it’s a fantastic place to visit! But I’m hoping the local government manages to find a way that the city can keep being appealing to both visitors and residents.

What do you think – is Barcelona overrated? What should the city do about the tourism issue?

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12 Comments

Great insight as always Jessica. My wife and I arrived here on this day six years ago, and we are very happy here. We planned on living here for a short while, and now I can’t imagine us leaving. We also bought an apartment. Along the lines of what you wrote, I believe that seeing Barcelona as overrated is a result of high expectations. Bak in the 80s I think that most visitors thought it was underrated…

Yet as you write, things are changing, despite Colau’s statements to control tourism. The winter months are usually quieter, but we see how every year there are more tourists also during January and February. Rent and house priced leaped in 2016 in a pace that looks like a bubble. And indeed, some of what makes Barcelona special is gone. Finding the balance between the enormous economic benefits of tourism (for quite some time, it was the only sector enjoying robust growth) and making the city livable and special, is quite hard. I am optimistic: the awareness of this problem, as voiced by yourself and others, is growing. Acknowledging the problem is an essential step to resolving it or at least containing it.

Thanks, Yohay! 🙂 Like they say – Barcelona engancha, right? Happy six years in Barcelona!

I agree, it’s important to talk about the tourism issue, and I’m optimistic they’ll find a way to balance it.

March is a quieter month too, and we’re having great weather so far this year.

I’ve been to Barcelona several times and really love it. When I’m there I always talk about living there for a while. It is bad that some of the bars and restaurants are ripping people off – we paid €20 for one gin and tonic at a not very nice bar right near the Sagrada Familia. We wanted to sit there because of the view (I love the SF!) – a proper tourist trap and their food looked awful. Having said that I totally get Barcelona – Paris on the other hand, I’ve been plenty of times and it just doesn’t do it for me. People look at me in shock and disbelief when I say that!

Ahh yeah, that stuff is so frustrating! Fortunately, there are lots of non tourist traps – and hey, at least the view was good. 🙂

I didn’t get Paris either!

I keep trying to give Barcelona a chance. I really, genuinely try. Like you, I appreciate that Spain is so different from region to region, but I find Barcelona too impersonable, despite knowing locals and getting great recs. That, coupled with the fact that it just has never lived up to my expectations, are – I think – at the root of my “meh” feelings.

You’re meh on Sevilla, so we’re even 😉

Haha I’m not so sure we’re even anymore – I really liked Sevilla last time I went! 😀

I’ve been living in Barcelona for almost 2 years now. I have a love (that I’m sitting quite comfortably in between Mountains and Seas, or that in some weird way I just feel more at home here than I ever was in country of birth (PH)) and hate (doing the government-related tasks is almost as bad as it is back home) relationship with Barcelona. And I’m closer to the point that I can’t imagine being anywhere else. I don’t think it’s over-rated — but I’ve also learned to avoid Gothic-Born-Raval-Barcelonetta during the summer, and stay indoors during Fiesta de Gracia.

I think the only thing that really gets on my nerves right now is the renting situation. How the prices and fees are ridiculous, the chances of being scammed high, and that the town hall requires me to register every time I sneeze (I move, it’s been 2 years, etc).

You as a tourist are part of the problem

I live here. That’s not the same as being a tourist.

You seemingly write this ridiculous opinionated characterization with the mindset of a tourist. You need to embrace Barcelina. Plain and simple. This article makes me sick. And you live here?!?!

I think you misunderstood the point of my article – I was talking about things that visitors often don’t like about Barcelona. Some of those I agree with, some of them not. Perhaps have another read. 🙂

Saw this post making a search for “Barcelona overrated”. I think Barcelona is one of the most overrated cities in the world for a traveler. It’s also becoming one of the most stressful. Over the last five years it has become progressively expensive, to the point that I honestly believe is now one of Europe’s most expensive cities. Of course one of the problems is systematic: tourism has changed the city, and not for the good. The other is just a matter of personal taste: I never liked Barcelona much. Other than the vibe in parts of the Eixample and the beach, I just don’t feel the city. You really need to get out of all the central area, perhaps with some exceptions in El Born, to find what’s really authentic about Barcelona. As for the attractions, Barcelona boasts the most expensive ticket to see a church in the world and some of the most expensive tickets to see a building inside (Casa Batllo is particularly outrageous given the value).

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Passing Thru Travel

Insider’s Guide: Protect Yourself from Tourist Traps and Scams

Posted: March 25, 2024 | Last updated: March 25, 2024

Traveling opens up a world of experiences, immersing you in diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unique traditions. However, navigating the less savory aspects of tourism, such as tourist traps and scams, is essential for any savvy traveler. These pitfalls can detract from your travel experience and lead to unnecessary expenses and safety concerns.

1. Overpriced Souvenir Shops

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Merydolla

Navigating the maze of souvenir shops that cluster around major tourist landmarks requires a discerning eye. These establishments often capitalize on their prime locations to sell items at inflated prices, exploiting convenience. While seemingly unique, the merchandise often lacks authenticity, having been mass-produced far from the locale it purports to represent.

2. Currency Exchange Scams

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Milosz Maslanka

While a seemingly straightforward transaction, the act of exchanging currency is fraught with pitfalls in areas heavily frequented by tourists. Airports, popular tourist spots, and some hotels offer convenience at a cost, applying exchange rates that significantly benefit the provider. This practice preys on the traveler’s need for local currency upon arrival, often resulting in a disproportionately unfavorable transaction.

3. Overpriced Restaurants Near Tourist Attractions

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Keitma

The culinary experience near major tourist attractions often comes with a premium, not for the quality of the fare but for the location’s convenience. Restaurants in these areas bank on the high foot traffic and the assumption that tourists, eager for a meal after exploring, will pay higher prices for convenience.

4. Fake Tickets and Tours

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Antonio Guillem

Encounters with fraudulent ticket sellers and tour operators can quickly dampen the excitement of exploring renowned attractions. These scammers exploit the eagerness of tourists, selling tickets or tours that are invalid, overpriced, or vastly different from what was promised.

5. Pickpocketing and Bag Snatching

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Alex Cimbal

In the bustling environments of popular tourist destinations, pickpockets and bag snatchers find fertile ground. These opportunistic thieves target distracted travelers, exploiting crowded conditions to discreetly relieve them of valuables. The loss impacts the victim’s sense of security and overall travel experience.

6. Accommodation Scams

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Boyloso

When planning your travels, finding the perfect place to stay can sometimes lead you into the murky waters of accommodation scams. These fraudulent listings can appear on even the most reputable booking platforms, offering accommodations that are significantly different from their descriptions or, in some cases, don’t exist at all.

7. Taxi Scams

Image Credit: Shutterstock / CatwalkPhotos

Taxi scams are a pervasive issue travelers encounter worldwide, exploiting the need for reliable transportation in unfamiliar locales. Unscrupulous drivers may employ various tactics to inflate fares, including taking unnecessarily long routes, claiming fixed rates are mandatory for tourists, or manipulating the taxi meter to charge exorbitant prices.

8. Free Gifts Leading to Sales Pitches

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Tupungato

A seemingly innocuous encounter with a friendly local offering a free gift can quickly devolve into a high-pressure sales situation or a demand for money. This scam plays on the social norms of reciprocity and politeness, making it uncomfortable for travelers to refuse the gift or escape the ensuing sales pitch.

9. Rental Scams

Image Credit: Shutterstock / PeopleImages.com – Yuri A

Renting a car, scooter, or even sports equipment can offer freedom and flexibility in your travel plans, allowing you to explore destinations at your own pace. However, this independence comes with the risk of rental scams, where agencies may charge you for pre-existing damage or hide exorbitant fees in the fine print of the rental agreement.

10. Fake Police Officers

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Brian A Jackson

Encountering law enforcement in a foreign country can be an intimidating experience, made all the more distressing when individuals posing as police officers attempt to exploit travelers. These impostors capitalize on the authority vested in their supposed roles, accusing tourists of fictitious infractions and demanding immediate payment of fines.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Carles Iturbe

Navigating the pitfalls of tourist traps and scams is an integral part of traveling smart and safely. By staying informed, vigilant, and prepared, you can protect yourself from common scams and focus on the enriching experiences that travel offers. Remember, your best defense is knowledge and a healthy dose of skepticism. Travel confidently, knowing you’re equipped to avoid the traps in waiting for the unwary.

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The post Insider’s Guide: Protect Yourself from Tourist Traps and Scams republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Matej Kastelic.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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This popular European city is the latest to increase its tourist tax to battle overtourism

Barcelona is the latest European city to increase its city-wide tourist tax, a slight increase of €0.50 (about $0.53) per night, as the city seeks to curb overtourism. 

The new price of €3.25 (about $3.45) was implemented on April 1 as part of the Stays in Tourist Establishments Tax . The bylaw was introduced in 2021, when the tourist tax was €0.75 (around $0.80) per night, and gradually increased the tax each year through 2024. Now, if someone is staying in Barcelona for seven nights, the new total tax amount will be €22.75 (around $24).

“It was the objective sought: to contain the number of tourists and increase tourist income because our model is no longer mass tourism but quality tourism, which adds value to the city,” deputy mayor Jaume Collboni said in March, according to Euronews . 

The tax is added to a tourist’s accommodations bill when they stay at official tourist establishments in the city. The money goes toward enhancing the city’s infrastructure, such as improving roads. 

Other popular European destinations, such as Amsterdam and Venice, also recently increased tourist taxes for similar reasons. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Are tourist taxes the future of travel? What to know about the increasing tourist fees worldwide.

“The new and increasing tourist fees across Europe allow cities to fund measures to attract more vacationers, support the local infrastructure and businesses, as well as preventing damages from overtourism,” Tiffany Mealiff, a travel insurance expert at Quotezone , said in a statement to USA TODAY.

However, Barcelona visitors have had to pay a regional tourist tax since 2012, according to Euronews . This tax amount depends on a traveler’s accommodation type, costing more if someone is staying at a luxury hotel than an Airbnb. 

Barcelona continues to reign as Spain’s most popular tourist destination. In 2022, Barcelona welcomed 9.7 million tourists , just slightly below pre-pandemic levels in 2019, according to the Barcelona City Council. However, tourists were found to be staying in the city longer than in 2019. 

In 2022, the city also sought to cap the number of people in a tour group and ban megaphones by tour guides in an effort to curb the disruptive effects of overtourism. 

Travelers planning their European getaway should be mindful of the additional costs that “are often not obvious beforehand,” according to Mealiff, as they plan their trip budgets.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .