You’ve bought your plane ticket, and you’re coming to Barcelona in the spring. Time to pack your strappy dresses and flip-flops! Or not? Planning your outfits for Barcelona can be tricky because the weather is less predictable than in summer or winter. This practical, stylish guide will help you get your suitcases ready for March,…
Author: Justine Ancheta
California native, churro aficionado, and mom of 3, Justine Ancheta writes fervently about Barcelona and Spain. Since 2008, she's been eating burnt onions (calçots) and tripping on cobblestones in the Gothic Quarter. She shares tips on popular attractions, exposes offbeat non-touristy spots, and gives insight on exploring Barcelona with kids. Her next Catalan culture challenge: top level of a human castle (castellers).
Barcelona Hidden Gems: Secret Spots from a Local’s Perspective
Barcelona is one of the best European cities with many hidden gems, all squished into 38 square miles (98 square kilometers). As a resident since 2008, some “hidden gems” in Barcelona became so popular with the rise of social media that it’s not so hidden any more. But I’ve said it once, and I’ll say…
Visiting Barcelona in June 2024
Barcelona in June is one of the most glorious times to visit. It’s one of my favorite months as a resident here. The city is in “comfortable heat”-mode, meaning it’s not as sweaty as the months of July and August! Not only is June a lovely time to visit outside attractions like Gaudi’s Park Guell,…
Visiting Barcelona in May 2024: A Complete Guide
One of the most pleasant months to visit Barcelona is May. Days are sunny and warm with a cool breeze in the evenings, and there are plenty of events and festivals like the Barcelona Beer Festival and the Primavera Sound music festival. It’s generally an exciting time to spend outside. In Barcelona in May, families…
Summer in Spain: Cities, Staying Cool, Beating Crowds, and Local Tips
Summer is the most popular season when people visit Spain. As the days get warmer, the population seemingly doubles. As a resident of Barcelona, I have an “enjoyment strategy” when I go downtown. Why? It’s hot, crowded, and uncomfortable. The same goes for many popular cities in Spain. They are scorching hot. This is why…
Visiting Barcelona in April 2024
April is a time of awakening from the cold winter in Barcelona. With a renewed feeling of spring, Barcelona becomes more alive with more crowds and outdoor festivities. Locals, like me, shed our winter coats to put them away in storage until December. Short sleeves come back. It’s a good time to visit Barcelona in…
The Best Places to Stay in Barcelona: Neighborhoods and Hotels
Where are the best places to stay in Barcelona, Spain? Each neighborhood offers different things: bountiful bakeries, beguiling bars, or buzzing beaches…or perhaps you want it all? As a 15-year resident, I’ve lived in different Barcelona neighborhoods, so I have a realistic idea of each one. I’ll give you the good, the bad, and the…
The Best Google Sheets Trip Planner: How to Plan an Epic Vacation with a Simple Spreadsheet
If you’ve ever traveled abroad, you know that there are tiny details to manage. And if you’ve traveled with outside family or friends, it’s even more complicated! Keeping a spreadsheet for the group is a great way to stay organized when no one is taking charge. It’s a one-stop place to keep people accountable when they…
Free Museums in Barcelona: No-Cost Cultural Treasures
I’ve said it many times. If Barcelona did not have any Gaudí architecture of the Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, the Casa Batlló, or the Casa Milà, the city would still be an incredibly beautiful and enchanting destination. This is a city of museums – and, me, even after living here after 15 years, haven’t seen…
La Casa dels Entremesos: Giants, Big Heads, and Beasts
Maybe you’ve been to the citywide La Mèrce Festival, or a smaller neighborhood celebration around Barcelona. And you may have caught the gegants – towering figures parading and dancing around. Or, do you know about the capgrossos, or “big heads”? If you live in Barcelona, you’ve probably seen the annual Loteria de Catalunya (“Catalan lottery”) publicity ads for the past…
