10 Mistakes To AVOID When Traveling To Barcelona 😲 | Dos & Don’ts for Your Barcelona Trip

Summary

In this video, Martha, a local from Barcelona, shares essential tips on how to avoid common tourist mistakes in the city. She advises on proper pronunciation (avoid calling it 'Bara'), planning ahead for popular attractions, and eating like a local. She also highlights the importance of avoiding tourist traps, exploring authentic Catalan cuisine, using public transportation, and staying vigilant about pickpockets. From knowing when to visit to choosing local dining spots, Martha provides insightful advice for making the most of a trip to Barcelona and experiencing it like a true Barcelonian.

Takeaways

• 😀 Avoid calling the city 'Bara'; locals refer to it as 'Barcelona,' 'Barna,' or 'BCN.'
• 😀 Plan your visit in advance, as Barcelona can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• 😀 Purchase tickets for popular attractions like La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell online in advance to avoid long waits.
• 😀 The best times to visit Barcelona are in autumn and spring, while summer can be hot and crowded.
• 😀 Visit La Rambla, but don't spend too much time there. It’s a touristy area with overpriced restaurants and many pickpockets.
• 😀 Understand Spanish and Catalan meal times—lunch is typically around 2 p.m. and dinner at 9 or 10 p.m.
• 😀 Avoid tourist traps by checking reviews, avoiding menu boards with pictures, and looking for local restaurants.
• 😀 Don’t limit yourself to just tapas—explore local Catalan and Spanish dishes like Fideuà, Ros Negre, and Canelones.
• 😀 Avoid fast food and enjoy Spain’s local cuisine at affordable prices; tap into menu del dia for a budget-friendly, authentic experience.
• 😀 Use public transportation, such as the metro or buses, instead of renting a car or taking a taxi, as it's more convenient and eco-friendly.

Q & A

What is the common mistake tourists make when referring to Barcelona?

Tourists often refer to Barcelona as 'Bara,' which is actually the nickname for FC Barcelona. Locals call the city 'Barcelona' or abbreviate it to 'BCN.'

Why is it important to plan your visit to Barcelona in advance?

Barcelona is a popular tourist destination with long lines and sold-out attractions. Planning ahead ensures you can visit major spots like Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, and helps avoid disappointment due to limited availability.

What is the best time to visit Barcelona?

The best times to visit Barcelona are in the autumn and spring, when the weather is pleasant, and in winter, which is the offseason, leading to fewer tourists and better prices.

Why should tourists be cautious when visiting La Rambla?

La Rambla is a heavily touristic area known for pickpockets and overpriced restaurants. It’s better to visit early in the morning and explore other neighborhoods in Barcelona for a more authentic experience.

What are the typical Spanish eating times and why is this important for tourists?

In Spain, lunch is usually around 2:00 p.m., and dinner doesn’t start until 9 or 10 p.m. To experience Barcelona like a local, tourists should adapt to these meal times and avoid tourist traps serving food at odd hours.

How can tourists avoid tourist traps in restaurants?

To avoid tourist traps, tourists should read reviews, avoid menus with pictures outside, and steer clear of restaurants located near major attractions like Sagrada Familia or La Rambla.

What are some local dishes tourists should try besides tapas?

Tourists should try local dishes such as 'fideuà,' 'ros negro,' and 'canelones.' Exploring local markets and restaurants beyond tourist spots is the best way to discover authentic Catalan and Spanish cuisine.

Why is public transportation recommended over renting a car in Barcelona?

Barcelona has excellent public transportation, including the metro and buses, making it more efficient, eco-friendly, and affordable. Many streets are pedestrian-only, and parking is challenging and expensive.

What is the best way to stay safe from pickpockets in Barcelona?

To avoid pickpockets, keep valuables in secure places, don’t leave items unattended, and stay alert in crowded areas. Be cautious of distractions, such as people asking for help, as these can be diversion tactics used by thieves.

How can tourists blend in with locals to avoid standing out?

To avoid standing out as a tourist, dress according to the season, and avoid wearing beachwear or sandals in the city. Dressing like a local will help tourists avoid drawing attention from pickpockets.