The Don’ts of Visiting Barcelona
Greetings from Barcelona, Spain! Today we’re sharing the five quick “don’ts” on visiting Barcelona.
Barcelona tip #1: Don’t Eat on Las Ramblas
Yes, Las Ramblas is the most popular tourist street in Barcelona, and everyone wants to take a stroll there. However, the restaurants along Las Ramblas are over-priced and underwhelming compared to authentic local cuisine.
Barcelona tip #2: Don’t Underestimate the Pickpockets
Barcelona is the number one pickpocket capital of Europe, and one of the top pickpocket locations in the world. The police will not be any help for tourists who’ve been pickpocketed. To avoid being pickpocketed, tourists should keep wallets in a front pocket, and keep an eye on any valuables (or better yet, leave them at home.) Don’t think it won’t happen to you, and don’t let your guard down.
Barcelona tip #3: Don’t Be Surprised by the Line at the Sagrada Familia (so grab a ticket beforehand)
The Sagrada Familia is on everyone’s Barcelona itinerary. For good reason; it’s one of the most recognized buildings in Spain. Don’t be surprised, though, if the line to get in is one or two hours long. For anyone who hasn’t pre-purchased tickets online, then the best bet is to go first thing in the morning and get in line.
Barcelona tip #4: Don’t Expect to Eat Before Noon at a Restaurant
The restaurants in Barcelona don’t open before noon, and even then, they might not serve meals until closer to 1:00. Don’t expect to enjoy a big breakfast or brunch anywhere in Barcelona. It’s best to choose a hotel that includes breakfast, otherwise travelers may be out of luck, unless scrounging up a convenience store sandwich.
Barcelona tip #5: Don’t Be Surprised if the Locals Out-Party You
There’s a saying in the U.S. about partying until dawn. In Barcelona, that’s nothing. Grannies might party until dawn, but the club-goers just keep on going right past dawn. Don’t feel bad about calling it a night at 4 a.m. Barcelona is very much a late-night culture, whether it’s late dinners, or late nights at the bars and clubs. (Which may explain why nobody is up to serve you breakfast in the morning!)
Now that you’re prepped on the “dont’s” of Barcelona, check out some of these other blog posts about traveling in Spain and Europe.