Barcelona
Spain · Spanish / Catalan · Euro
Late meals, busy streets, sharp pickpockets. Barcelona is better when you slow down and watch your pockets.
Today in Barcelona
- The best European beach destinations for sun without the crowds this summer
<p>Our pick of secret spots to get your beach fix without the crowds this summer, from Alentejo to the Bozburun Peninsula</p>
- Eight of the best Mexico beach towns for crowd-free escapes
<p>These beach towns used to be seen as detours. Now they’re the main destination for savvy travellers</p>
5 phrases you need in Barcelona
- HelloHolaoh-lah
- GoodbyeAdiosah-dee-ohs
- PleasePor favorpor fah-vor
- Thank youGraciasgrah-see-ahs
- Excuse mePerdonpair-dohn
The Trovlr app drills all 21 Barcelona phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
safety
Las Ramblas, metro platforms, and beach areas are pickpocket zones. Phone away, bag zipped.
food
Lunch and dinner run late. Tourist-hour restaurants are often the worst value.
manners
Catalan identity matters. Do not call the city Spanish like that explains everything.
tipping
Round up or leave small change. U.S.-style tipping is unnecessary.
transport
Metro is clean and useful. Validate tickets and avoid blocking doors.
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