Here are our top tips when coming into Barcelona whether you’re staying for a day or a year, these are the things you must know before stepping foot into the beautiful seaside city!

THE METRO

For newcomers to Barcelona, you definitely need to know how to get around the city. And if you’re like many others, your only options are either the bus or Metro for cheap transportation going to and from your destinations. The metro cards can be bought single, 10 trip, or 50 trips. Personally, I think the 50 trips is the best deal if you will be in Barcelona for more than a week since you will be using the metro a few times a day. You can also use the metro card to get around on the buses which takes a bit more time, but are a more scenic and less crowded way of transport.

CLUBS

One thing you need to know about Barcelona clubs before you visit, is that you can usually get on a guest list without paying. CeleBreak has a few guest lists for popular clubs like Shoko and Otto Zutz, while other can get you into other good spots like Opium and the W Hotel. You can check online or on Facebook for guest lists. Also, the drinks at the clubs are not cheap, but you can get free ones if you pay the entry fee which is nice. Each club has different music tastes, and popular DJs often come here so check ahead and see if your favorite artists will be at one.

THEFT

Everyone has heard it, but not everyone believes it. But I am here to tell you that pick pockets in the city of Barcelona are a big deal, especially in the metro, crowded areas, and clubs. Clubs are the most dangerous since it is full of people not paying attention and you can’t tell who is next to you. I recommend to bring a small bag with a zipper and to not carry your most important items with you. When walking around the city, keep your hand on your bag across your shoulder and beware of street sellers and overly friendly travelers asking questions. As long as you are alert and keep your belongings close, you should have nothing to worry about.

TAXI AND METRO STRIKES

One thing to know when taking taxis and the metro around Barcelona, there are strikes. Which are very inconvenient at times. Mondays there are metro strikes all day which leads to over packed metros, hot and crowded hallways, and wait time up to 20 minutes. These are the days it would be smart to either walk, take the bus, or try to find a free taxi. Taxi strikes come sporadically and are even harder to work through. If you’re headed to the airport, be sure to leave earlier than usually due to the high street and metro traffic during this time.

SERVICE

Compared to other countries around the world, I’ve noticed the customer service and overall friendliness in Barcelona is a bit on the scarce side. In restaurants, it takes much longer to sit and wait to order as well as waiting for the food arrives and paying. Be sure to ask for the check when finished or I promise you, the waiter will not bring it. Try to be as nice and polite as well, and speak in the native language to the bet of your ability, and service might improve.

WEATHER

While the weather in Barcelona stays particularly warm throughout the year, the coastal wind brings in some rain occasionally that you might not expect. It could be bright and sunny one moment in the city, then switch to cloudy and rainy in an instant, so come prepared to battle against unpredictable weather. Also, be aware that during the summer months it can get uncomfortably hot and humid, and the metro stations are usually the hottest place to be since they are underground.

CROWDS

Places like Barceloneta, Placa Catalunya, and Las Ramblas are filled with people going to and from destinations, shopping, eating, or just hanging out. Personal space is almost nonexistent here, so be prepared to bump into quite a few other people are stand extremely close to one another in lines or on the metro. Metro stations are the worst for this. Whether you are waiting at your stop, walking in the tunnels, or squished like sardines in the train, you will be in an extremely crowded area that you might not be used to.

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