While Barcelona is a traveler’s dream, the surrounding area of Catalonia is extraordinary. If you’re visiting the Catalan capital, I highly recommend you explore the underrated regions in this northeastern part of Spain. After almost 15 years of living in Barcelona and traveling to new towns and cities, I’m still amazed by the variety of…
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).
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…
How to Spend One Day in Barcelona
HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY IN BARCELONA How can you spend one day in Barcelona? If you’re coming into Barcelona for a layover, cruise, or whirlwind European trip, it’s possible to capture the essence of the city in 24 hours. It’s definitely not ideal, but it’s doable. You can get a good feel of the…
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…
Where to stay in Barcelona with kids
Barcelona is a city for all ages. While it’s great for restaurants and nightlife, it’s also a fantastic daytime city because of the museums, beaches, and mountains. It’s hard to find a friendly place to stay in Barcelona that caters to families. Here are a few hotels that welcome children. Find out where to stay…
Las Ramblas: Barcelona’s Vibrant Promenade
It’s entertaining and often gritty. And it’s a must-see in Barcelona — Las Ramblas. Before going, I wondered if we’d see Ronaldinho performing tricks of fancy footwork with his soccer ball or if we’d catch any illegal gambling along the pedestrian walkway. I’ve walked this street numerous times, and the experience is never the same…
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…