Beaches, tapas and incredible architecture. Barcelona will overwhelm you with everything it has to offer!

What we loved about Barcelona

There is so much to do here! It’s the first place we’ve been in that we honestly felt that three months was not enough. We stayed busy, but there’s so much to do and see.  It’s hard to overstate this – whatever your interest, there will be something in Barcelona that will fascinate you. There are world-class things to see and do, and there are lots of classes, events and festivals to experience.

Barcelona probably has the best public transportation system we’ve ever seen. It’s inexpensive, fast, comprehensive and easy to use. It opens up nearly the entire city for nesting.

The wine is great. And cheap!

We loved the community concept of Barcelona. Every nine block section has a park, a library and community center, a neighborhood Mercat (shopping market) and school. It makes Barcelona a city of neighborhoods with their own special characters.

Shoulder seasons are the best weather in Barcelona. On the ends, it may be a bit hot or a bit chilly, but for the most part, you’ll have comfortable, sunny days.

What we didn’t love about Barcelona

It’s the biggest city we’ve been in so far. To be out where the locals live, you’ll have to live further out. Even if you live close to most of the sights, you won’t be able to walk everywhere. Thank goodness for the public transportation – you’ll have to use it.

As good as public transportation is, it is often very crowded. Resign yourself to standing in the subways most trips.

You need to be very aware of pickpockets and lock your apartment. Even people we met who were residents there have had experiences with petty crime and pickpockets -in fact, a friend’s apartment was broken into while we were out to dinner with them.  Thieves are skilled and out in force.

It takes a little bit to get used to the daily schedule in Barcelona. Tourist areas are open nearly all the time, but neighborhood restaurants will not open until about 8 or 9pm for dinner. Some concerts and events in the night may not start until 10pm. Stores very often close in the afternoons and reopen in the evenings.