An Overview of Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor at Tibidabo The Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor is an incredible architectural masterpiece located atop the Tibidabo Mountain in Barcelona, Spain. Built in 1902, the church stands as a testament to the creative power of its architects with its stunning neo-gothic design and intricate details. The history…
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).
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 2025
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 more about Barcelona events to…
What Not to Wear in Spain: Don’t look like a tourist
If you’re visiting this beautiful Mediterranean country, you don’t want to look like a tourist. For one thing, dressing like a tourist could make you a target for pickpockets. So how do people dress in Spain? It’s easy to fit in and dress like a local in Spain if you follow these “dont’s”. As a…
Pickpocket-Proof Travel Clothing with Hidden Pockets
When I first visited Rome, I was 14. My family had been warned about pickpockets. So my mom had a genius idea to keep her money safe. She sewed a huge pocket inside the front panel of her underwear to hide our money. And she didn’t get robbed! Fast forward to today. Now, they sell…
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…
Inside the Sagrada Familia: Tips for Your Visit
Arm yourself with this ultra-practical guide for your Sagrada Familia visit. Allow me to unpack the whats, wheres, and hows: the best time to visit, how to buy tickets, which tower to go up, and other discombobulations eating your brain. As a Barcelona resident, I usually visit once a year. Read on to know everything…
What to do in Barcelona in November 2024
It’s finally autumn in November in Barcelona! Leaves are finally falling around this time and people are starting to put on an extra layer of clothes. Crowds will be smaller, so you can get around a lot more easily. I’m an American who’s been living in Barcelona since 2008, so you can say that I…
Frederic Marès Museum, sculptures and a bizarre collection of stuff
Frederic Marès Museum Right behind the Barcelona Cathedral is the Museu Frederic Marès, one of the most significant sculpture museums in Spain. It’s also a fascinating museum of collections of everyday objects and a treasure trove of Spain’s past. The ground floor features a magnificent collection of Christian sculptures and relics from the Romanesque, Gothic,…
Christmas Market at the Sagrada Familia
Hit up the Christmas market at the Sagrada Familia if you want to enjoy the ambiance of aromatic Christmas trees, Nativity scene figurines, authentic local gifts, and a pleasing view of the Sagrada Familia. I make sure to visit the holiday market to jumpstart the Christmas-y vibe every Nadal (Christmas in Catalan). Read on to see what…