Barcelona City Guide

Catalan food is widely available, along with a big variety of international restaurants. Tapas, paella, and crema catalana are must-tries. Vegan and vegetarian options are common. Many places serve late-night food, especially on weekends.

Nightlife is varied and vibrant, with bars and clubs open late, mostly busy after midnight. Areas like El Born and Port Olímpic stand out.

Coffee culture is growing with quality specialty cafes offering espresso and filter coffee.

Tipping is optional and modest. 5-10% or rounding up is typical for good service in restaurants and bars; not mandatory.

SIM cards are easy to get at the airport, provider shops, and some convenience stores. Providers include Vodafone, Orange, Movistar, and Yoigo. You'll need an ID.

The city is mostly clean, especially in tourist areas, with good waste management.

Late-night pharmacies rotate shifts; minimarts and emergency rooms are open 24/7. Many food spots serve late on weekends.

Supermarkets like Mercadona, Carrefour, Lidl, and Dia carry international goods. Fresh markets such as La Boqueria offer local produce. Most supermarkets close Sundays and holidays.

Cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants but keep some cash for markets and small stores.

ATMs are common, especially near banks like CaixaBank, Santander, and BBVA. Avoid Euronet machines to reduce fees and decline dynamic currency conversion offers.

Barcelona has several international schools teaching in English, French, or German. Popular schools include the American School and British School of Barcelona. Expect high demand and waiting lists.

Barcelona has a strong digital nomad community with frequent meetups, co-living spaces, and reliable Wi-Fi cafes.

Parks like Ciutadella and Montjuïc are great for relaxing or exercise. Collserola Park offers more natural trails.

Running routes include the beachfront and parks. The city is generally safe and has active running groups.

Many gyms and fitness centers are available across the city with various programs and facilities.

Tennis courts are plentiful at clubs and public facilities. Booking online is common, and rental gear is often available.

Padel is popular with many courts available. Clubs often offer coaching and court rentals.

Numerous yoga studios offer styles like Hatha, Vinyasa, and restorative yoga. Many have English-speaking teachers.

Martial arts studios offer BJJ, Muay Thai, boxing, judo, karate, and taekwondo with English instructors common.

The Pyrenees are 1.5 to 3 hours away with resorts like La Molina and Baqueira Beret. Ski season runs December to April.

Sea offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing. Rentals and guided tours are available mostly in warmer months.

Sea waves are small and best for beginners. More reliable spots are 30-60 minutes outside the city in Montgat or El Masnou. Warm season is June to October.

Diving is popular on the Costa Brava, about an hour away, with sites like Medes Islands Marine Reserve. Best from May to October.

Healthcare is high quality with public and private options. Hospitals like Quirónsalud have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and identifiable by green crosses.

Tap water is safe to drink but tastes chlorinated to some people, so bottled water is common.

The city is great for families with parks, playgrounds, and child-friendly spots. Popular attractions include Tibidabo Amusement Park and Barcelona Aquarium.

One of Europe's most LGBTQ+-friendly cities, especially in the Gaixample area. Annual Pride events and legal protections.

Pet-friendly with dog parks and many pet services. Some cafes and accommodations accept pets. EU pet passport rules apply.