Barcelona
Hotspots
Food
Barcelona offers a dynamic culinary scene with numerous must-try spots:
- La Boqueria $ – A bustling market filled with fresh produce, gourmet food stalls, and tapas bars, perfect for food lovers.
- Gina Balmesina $ – Amazing pizzeria in the local neighborhood of Gràcia, ranked top 50 in the world
- Harry’s $$ – Italian restaurant with a nice atmosphere
- El Xampanyet $ – A popular bodega known for its sparkling wine and delicious tapas.
- Lady Dumpling $$ – Cosy dumplings restaurant, made on the spot
- Da Nanni $ – Cheapest Neapolitan style pizza you’ll find, with great selection and size variation
- Billy Brunch $ – A trendy brunch spot with various locations around the city known for its yummy dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
- Anatuez $$ – Local and nice tapas restaurant in Gràcia
- Rosa Negra $$ – Nice Mexican restaurant with delicious cocktails
Going Out
Barcelona’s nightlife is lively and diverse, catering to all tastes:
- Razzmatazz – A multi-room club featuring various music genres, popular among locals and tourists alike.
- The rooftop at Sir Victor Hotel $$ – Pretty views of the city and its architecture
- Oveja Negra $– Another cheap bar with a young yet local ambiance, has two locations (pitchers of sangria are a must)
- Twenties – A club offering a mix of commercial and Latino music, filled with locals
- D9 $ – Full of internationals and exchange students, probably the cheapest bar in Barcelona
- Sala Apolo – A concert venue and club known for its eclectic programming and vibrant atmosphere.
- Space Cowboy $$ – Neon lights everywhere with some nice cocktails and music
Activities
Barcelona is rich in culture and activities; here are some highlights:
- Sagrada Familia – Gaudí’s iconic basilica, a must-visit for architecture lovers.
- Park Güell – A colorful park featuring Gaudí’s unique designs and stunning views of the city.
- Gothic Quarter – Wander through the narrow medieval streets, filled with shops, cafes, and historical sites.
- Picasso Museum – Home to an extensive collection of artworks by Pablo Picasso, showcasing his early years.
Cost of Living
- Rent
Barcelona offers a range of accommodation options, though prices can be high in popular areas:
– Student Accommodation – Prices typically range from 300-700 euros a month, depending on location and amenities.
– Private Accommodation – Generally between 800-1,500 EUR per month in sought-after neighborhoods like Eixample and Gràcia, with more affordable options in areas like Sants and Horta. - Groceries
Barcelona has plenty of grocery shopping options, with supermarket chains like Mercadona and Carrefour offering a wide selection. Local markets, such as Mercat de Sant Antoni, provide fresh produce and local delicacies. - Transportation
Barcelona has an efficient public transport system, with a monthly “young” transport pass costing around 15 EUR, granting access to metro, buses, and trams. The airport is conveniently located about 30 minutes from the city center, easily reachable by train or bus. The bus we recommend is the A1 or A2 from Plaça Cataluñya (depending on your terminal).