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…
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).
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…
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…
Barcelona Festivals, Events, and Holidays 2024
Festivals, Events, and Holidays 2024 Come to Barcelona any day of the year, and you’re guaranteed to find the right event for you. Religious celebrations, concerts, food fairs, or a Mexican food meet-up? They’re always happening! Read this list of major events, festivals, and public holidays in Barcelona to help you plan your trip. Read…
Barcelona Food Guide: What and Where to Eat
Barcelona is home to generations-old Catalan bars, over 20 Michelin restaurants, and a plethora of international cafes and other eateries. With its abundant and creative choices, it’s no wonder why the city is a magnet for chefs, foodies, and tourists wanting to taste local and seasonal Catalan fare and unique dishes. This Barcelona food guide…
Fun Christmas Activities for Kids in Barcelona 2023
Celebrating Christmas in Barcelona is a unique experience. For one thing, where else can get presents from the Catalan Christmas log, the tió de nadal? Without further ado, here are FUN Christmas activities for kids in Barcelona 2023! You must reserve in advance for many of these activities, starting on December 14 or 15. Set…
Barcelona tips and tricks for visitors 2024
I’ve been a Barcelona resident for almost 15 years, and oftentimes, I still feel like a tourist. This happens usually when I’m wandering with the crowds in Gothic Quarter or Born, or passing through the raucous-y Plaça Catalunya. I still visit tourist sites from time to time (yes, even the Sagrada Familia!). For that reason,…
Best Cities in Spain to Put on Your Itinerary
It’s easy – and unfair – to pin Spain as merely the land of bulls, sangria, and Antonio Banderas. In reality, it’s a diverse mosaic of regional cultures and languages. From the industrial yet dazzling Basque country in the North to the whitewashed pueblos of Andalusia in the South, I asked seasoned travel bloggers which were…