January 2018

Perfect 4 Day Itinerary for Barcelona, Spain

Loud streets, bright food markets, unique architecture, and lots of tapas. It was so vibrant even in January – I can’t imagine how it is amplified in the summer months. Barcelona is a unique – their Catalan culture and language is pervasive set them apart from the rest of Spain. Exploring the many streets of Barcelona made for the perfect long weekend getaway to satisfy the travel bug post holiday down time.

Know before you go

• Barcelona is a major European city that attracts many international tourists.
• Do your homeowner to avoid tourist trap locations ahead of time.
• Also be alert and aware of your surroundings for any petty theft or scams. We felt very safe on our visit but these are precautions you should have when visiting any new location.
• The locals speak Catalan – not Spanish. And while there is overlap with Spanish, it will take you far to learn basic Catalan words. We also had no problem finding English speakers as it is a tourist destination.
• The city is very walkable and there is a reliable metro that you can take advantage of as well.
• Make sure if you have a credit card with no foreign transaction fee – highly recommend getting one if not – that will be fine for your trip. You can also take out euros to use.
• Starting in 2023, if you are traveling international to any country in the Schengan Zone, you will have to complete a form prior to arrival, including a 7 euro application fee, for the ETIAS – European Travel Information and Authorization System.

Where to stay?

Our Airbnb was several blocks down La Rambla in the El Raval neighborhood. It was a great location and very comfortable. Would definitely recommend his place if the location works for you- it is far enough off of La Rambla, which can be densely populated with tourists at times. Make sure where you stay is considered a safe part of town and is close to metro stops to give yourself flexible travel options. 

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What is there to do?

• Architecture tour – La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló/Casa Milà
• We were surprised to learn about the beer culture in Barcelona – we loved hanging out down the street from our Airbnb at Ølgod
• Attend a futbol game at the largest stadium in Europe – Camp Nou Futbol
• Pop into the many markets, such as Mercado de La Boqueria, gazing at the vibrant colors of the stalls

Where to eat?

• If you can make every breakfast at Forn de Pa Tur – just do it
• For a wonderful tasting menu experience, visit Cinc Sentits
• Tapas, tapas, tapas! It was so difficult to commit to places walking by but once we did it was delicious – Ciudad Condal and Cervecería Catalana
• Seafood reigns supreme – get your paella fix at Botafumeiro or Kaiku

Here is a perfect itinerary for 4 days in Barcelona!

Read the full trip details here!

Read all the blog posts for Barcelona here!