What Do You Need to Know Before Visiting Barcelona?

Barcelona, the stunning capital of Catalonia, is one of the world’s most captivating cities. Every year, millions of tourists flock to Barcelona to enjoy its vibrant culture, unique architecture, and unique way of life. From the Post-Modern wonders of Gaudi to the Mediterranean beaches, there is something for everyone in Barcelona.

However, there are some things you should know before leaving home to ensure you get the most out of your time in Barcelona. Here is a guide to the essential information you should be aware of when planning your trip.

Useful Practical Information for Barcelona

1. Currency and Language

The official language in Barcelona and Catalonia is Catalan. Although Spanish is the language of majority communication in the region, it is not recommended to use Spanish in conversations with locals as Catalans prefer conversations to take place in their native language. As a result, it is recommended that visitors make an effort to learn some basic Catalan words before their visit.

The official currency in Barcelona is the euro (€), used throughout the European Union. For Japanese visitors, ATMs at major banks and post offices accept cash withdrawals with a Japanese credit card or debit card. With foreign credit cards, you can withdraw euros from most ATMs but it is best to check with your bank to ensure it will be accepted before leaving home.

2. Visas

Barcelona is part of the European Union, and all visitors must have a valid passport or ID card depending where they come from.
For visa requirements, the minimum license holders must be over 18 years old and must have a valid passport. Anyone hoping to stay for a period of up to three months does not require a visa giving that they come from a non-EU country. You can find more information about visas from the official website of the European Union.

3. Public Transportation

Navigating around Barcelona is easy and straightforward thanks to its extensive public transportation network. This includes the metro (subway system), buses, and trams, as well as a selection of express trains. The main Metro network connects the city’s main tourist attractions – Plaça de Catalunya, Barri Gotic, Las Ramblas, Park Güell – making is easy to get around on foot and by metro.

In order to make transportation more affordable during your stay, it is recommended that visitors purchase a T-10 metrocard, which costs €10 and provides ten metro journeys that can be used on any one of the city’s public transport lines (bus, metro and tram). You can also purchase single tickets for €2.40 or a METROVIA single ticket for €2.15.

4. What to Wear

Like any other city in the world, your clothing choices should be based on the activities you plan to do during your stay in Barcelona. For sightseeing and relaxing in the city center, light clothing such as T-shirts, shorts or skirts are recommended in the warmer months of spring and summer. During autumn and winter months, cooler temperatures may require heavier clothing such as trousers and sweaters.

When dining out on resturant terraces or exploring further than the city center, comfier clothes such as jeans or ocean-blue barrelled trousers are advisable for comfort, but don’t forget to dress up for special occasions too!

5. Wi-Fi Connection

Wi-Fi is widely available throughout Barcelona and many local cafes, bars, and hostels offer free Wi-Fi for customers without passwords. The majority of train stations also offer free Wi-Fi access for passengers upon accessing the station itself. Additionally, Barcelona’s El Prat Airport offers free Wi-Fi access in both terminals – automatic connect with your smartphone when you enter or you can use the “Xarxa Prat’ option at any cafe or restaurant in the terminal building where you will be asked to enter your passport details as proof of authorship.

6. What to Eat and Drink

Foodies will find plenty of gastronomic delights when it comes to trying out some of Barcelona’s local cuisine – Calçots (spring onions) are a popular dish – dipped in Romesco sauce and served with grilled meats, rack of lamb, butifarra sausages, cheese and cured meats (such as cured ham or chorizo) are other traditional favorites when dining out in bars and restaurants – add a glass or two of sangria or some delicious Spanish wine for a complete flavor experience!

7. Nightlife

Barcelona is known for its vibrant nightlife – from hidden jazz bars in El Born to vibrant night clubs on La Rambla – there’s something for everyone when it comes to partying in Barcelona until the early hours! However, just like any major city – it’s important to know where you want to go and what you want to do before you leave home! We highly recommend taking an original pub crawl tour with an experienced guide when you arrive, who will take you on an unforgettable journey around some of Barcelona’s most unique bars! During this tour, professional guides will lead you through some of Barcelona’s most iconic bars while sharing stories about local culture, history and points of interest along the way – there will also be free shots available during your tour! So don’t hesitate to join this tour – its amazing!

Conclusion

As one of the world’s most visited cities, Barcelona has so much to offer each year when it comes to culture, architecture, beaches and historical attractions. However knowing essential information before your visit is essential – from visas requirements to what currency to use and what food to try – ensuring you are prepared for your trip can help you get the most out of your time in this beautiful city. Don’t forget – take an Barcelona: Original Pub Crawl tour, with free shots and professional guide who will bring you through Barcelona’s bars while sharing stories along the way!