Tourism in Barcelona

Big football night - F.C. Barcelona vs Manchester United

DJA — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 11:03:00 +0000

Barcelona will meet Manchester United at the Camp Nou on April 23rd. This should be a great night of football at the highest level with both teams looking for a place in the Champions League final so strong emotions are guaranteed.

For those Manchester United fans coming to Barcelona from the UK or anywhere in Europe, here are some tips:

April 23rd coincides with the feast of Sant Jordi so you will be able to enjoy a great atmosphere all over Barcelona but specially around Las Ramblas area. Of course, city center will be packed, you should be extra careful with your handbags and wallet, so be extra careful with pickpockets.

As normally happens in this situations, airlines will bring up prices so you may consider for an alternative route to get to Barcelona (e.g. via Ireland or another country) if you don't have your flights booked already. Click here for a list of cities in the UK flying directly into Barcelona airport.

How to get to the Camp Nou? The easiest way is to take the underground (Metro). There are three metro stations very close to the Nou Camp: Collblanc (L5 - blue), Badal (L5 - blue) and Maria Cristina (L3 - green). Click here for a small map showing their location with regards to the Nou Camp. If your acommodation is in city center, the easiest is probably is to go Maria Cristina as you can take the metro at the following stations (Catalunya, Liceu or Drassanes, all at the L3 green line) as it is just few stations away.

For those of you travelling without a ticket, be aware that it may be almost impossible to obtain one as very small amount of tickets will be put on sale. You may try the box office (access 14) at the Nou Camp on April 23rd.

If you are unable to get a ticket and want to watch the match in an English speaking environment, you can go to an Irish Pub. There are few in the city centre area.

Finally, here are some useful links:

- Consulates in Barcelona
- Places to visit in Barcelona
- Restaurant in City center
- Bars
- Transport in Barcelona
- Useful information

Currency exchange - How and Where

DJA — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 21:47:00 +0000

Barcelona is unfortunately well known for its pickpocketing problem, therefore instead of carrying large amount of cash, I would recommend using ATMs (automated teller machine) as it is the easiest way to get cash. However, before you start your travel, you should contact your bank in order to find out what charges they will apply. Rembember that in order to use your credit card abroad, you will need a valid PIN number. Also, if you have several credit cards, use the one that offers you the best deal (the one that applies the smallest charge).

However, if you have to exchange money (e.g. US Dollars or British pounds to Euros), I would strongly recommend that you use a regular bank (La Caixa, Caixa Catalunya, Caixa Penedes, ...) rather than exchange kiosks as the exchange ratio is more favorable in a regular bank. Moreover, financial institutions post their exchange rates outside so you will be able to compare their ratio to the ratios applied by the exchange kioks. Use only exchange kiosks as a last resort as they will rip you off.

When changing your money, ensure that you get loose change as it will be very useful if for example you have to use public transportation. As a safety measure, keep always the change in a different location than large notes.

Bank opening hours in Spain are Monday to Friday from 9am to 2pm.

For those of you using American Express, there is an AM office in the city centre (Paseo de Gracia 101. Phone: 93 217 0070) that opens from Monday to Friday (9:30 to 18h) and on Saturday from 10-12.

Upcoming Running Competitions

DJA — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 11:30:00 +0000

A number of running competitions are organized on a regular basis in Barcelona and its surrounding areas.

You don't have to be superman to be able to complete them, just go at your own pace without worrying about anyone else and enjoy the feeling of crossing the finish line.

We all know how difficult it is to get the motivation to do some sport after a long day at work or at college. However, it is easier if you have a target. So why don't you register for one of the following running competitions listed below.

For those of you who like running why don't you register to any of the races taking part outside Barcelona. This will alow you to discover know a different area, less touristic, and to get in contact with the locals.

10/02/2008 - Half Marathon of Barcelona
29/02/2008 - Cursa Solidària - Barrio de Navas (BCN)

02/03/2008 - Marathon of Barcelona 2008
16/03/2008 - Cursa Popular de Muntanya de Vilanova i la Geltrú
29/03/2008 - VIII CROS DE MUNTANYA CAN CARALLEU - 9,5km
30/03/2008 - Half Marathon: Calçotada a Valls

06/04/2008 - Cursa dels Bombers - (BCN) 10km
13/04/2008 - 10 Km de Girona
27/04/2008 - Cursa 150 aniversari de los Bomberos de Vic 16km

11/05/2008 - Half Marathon in Girona
11/05/2008 - Cursa Popular in Girona
25/05/2008 - Cursa Policia de Catalunya - 10 km
31/05/2008 - 10 km de Granollers

01/06/2008 - Cursa de Pineda de Mar - 10km

Remember, success never comes easy, you have to work hard to achieve your target.

Flights from UK to Barcelona airport

DJA — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 19:58:00 +0000

Looking for flights from the UK to Barcelona could be a little bit tedious as it is difficult to find a list of all the different airlines flying to one specific location. Therefore we have done some research and have included some details (city, airport and airline) so you don't have to keep checking different websites to find out whether or not there is a direct flight from your city in the UK to Barcelona.

The following table provides all the airlines flying from the UK to Barcelona airport (El Prat) (January 2008):

Flights from UK to Barcelona airport

AIRPORT	CITY	AIRLINE
Belfast	Belfast	AER LINGUS
Belfast	Belfast	EASYJET AIRLINE CO. LTD.
Belfast	Belfast	CHANNEL EXPRES
Birmingham International	Birmingham	BRITISH MIDLAND REGIONAL
Bristol	Bristol	EASYJET AIRLINE CO. LTD.
Edinburg	Edinburg	GLOBESPAN AIRWAYS LTD.
Edinburg	Edinburg	IBERIA
Glasgow	Glasgow	GLOBESPAN AIRWAYS LTD.
Leeds/Bradford	Leeds	CHANNEL EXPRESS
Liverpool	Liverpool	EASYJETAIRLINE CO. LTD.
London Heathrow	London	IBERIA
London/Heathrow	London	BRITISH AIRWAYS
London/Gatwick	London	EASYJET AIRLINE CO. LTD.
London/Gatwick	London	BRITISH AIRWAYS
London/Luton	London	EASYJET AIRLINE CO. LTD.
London/Stansted	London	EASYJET AIRLINE CO. LTD.
Manchester	Manchester	MONARCH AIRLINES
Newcastle	Newcastle	EASYJET AIRLINE CO. LTD.
Nottingham/East Midlands	Nottingham	EASYJET AIRLINE CO. LTD.

* We will be creating other tables with similar details for other countries.

Antoni Gaudí

DJA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 18:36:00 +0000

Antoni Gaudí (1852 - 1926) was born in Reus, although completed his studies and the majority of his work in Barcelona.

Although Gaudí was born in Reus, he moved to Barcelona in 1868 were he completed his architecture studies in 1877 and developed his career. Gaudí is considered a genius today, however did not escape critism. One of his masterpieces, the Casa Milà was hugely critisized at the time.

Eusebi Güell, future Count of Güell, was a huge influence on Gaudí's work as he financed some of the most important of Gaudí's works (Palau Güell, Colonia Güell, Parc Güell, ...).

Major works in Barcelona are:

Sagrada Familia

Casa Mila (La Pedrera)

Casa Batlló

Casa Vicenc

Casa Calvet

Parc Güell

Palau Güell

Colonia Güell

Gaudí died in 1926 ran over by a tram. His body was buried in the crypt of the Sagrada Familia.

Excursions near Barcelona

DJA — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 15:34:00 +0000

The strategic location of Barcelona offers a large range of activities and places to visit, here are some of them:

Beaches - from mid spring to mid autumn, the best way to combat the high temperatures is to go to the beach, and in Barcelona this as easy as taking the metro. Click here for more details.

However, if you feel that Barcelona beaches are overcrowded, you can take the train or the car and go all along the Catalonia coast where you will find the marvellous beaches of Tarragona, Mataró and specially over the Costa Brava (Girona).

Pyrenees - highly recommended for winter activities (skiing, snowboarding, trekking, ...) and only two and a half hours from Barcelona. At these impressive mountains there are some of the best ski resorts in Europe. Both the Catalan and French side of the pyrenees as well as Andorra are specially prepared for winter activities and receive large amounts of tourists every year, not just during the winter.

Apart from skiing and snowboarding, at the Pyrenees it is also possible to practice other adventure sports such as rafting, trekking, climbing, canoeing, horse riding, snowboarding, fishing, bungee jumping, ...

Montserrat and Montseny - these are two impressive mountains really worth visiting. Also, they are much closer than the Pyrenees.

Montserrat is located around 30 minutes from Barcelona (between Manresa and Igualada). It is also possible to go by train which can be taken at Plaza España (Line R5 Barcelona - Montserrat - Manresa). Once in Montserrat, you should go to the top, to do so you can walk (one hour walk) or you can take the tram or the cable car. At the top there is a famous Sanctuary, which is absolutely fantastic. Also, you will find a big surprise, however I am not going to say anything else so you should go and see it for yourself. For more information click here.

Montseny is located in Girona. It is less touristic than Montserrat as it is further away. This is a "Park Natural" which means it is an universally protected area. To go by car take the AP-7 motorway until Sant Celoni. It is also possible to go by train and the closest station is Sant Celoni. For more information click here.

Port Aventura - the biggest park attraction in Catalonia. It is a Warner Bros park. Located in Vilaseca (near Salou, Tarragona). It is open all year except during the winter season. This park offers not only attractions, but shows, music festivals, hotels and even an aquatic park. One day is definitely not enough, specially if you go with children. For more information click here. Packages including accommodation within the resort, are usually the best and cheapest option.

Castell dels Tres Dragons

DJA — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 18:49:00 +0000

Popularly knows as the Castell del Tres Dragons (Three Dragons Castle), this stunning building was designed by the famous architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner for the World's Fair of 1888. It currently hosts the Zoology Museum of Barcelona.

Located at Parc de la Ciutadella, it is one of the most important examples or the Art Nouveau (Modernisme Català).

Consulates in Barcelona

DJA — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 11:32:00 +0000

Over the recent years, Barcelona has become an extremely popular tourist destination with the number of visitors growing every year. Therefore there is an increasing demand for consular services.

Consular services normally include the following:

- Passport replacement.
- Provide information regarding transferring funds.
- Provide appropiate assistance in the event of an assault or accident.
- Provide details of local lawyers, interpreters, doctors.
- Contact family and friends in the country of origin.
...

We hope that you never find in a situation where you require to contact your own consulate, but just in case, here is a list of consulates in Barcelona.

Consulate of Australia
Plaça Gal.la Placídia, 1-3, 1º
08006 Barcelona
Phone: +34 93 490 9013
Fax: +34 93 411 0904
Web: http://www.spain.embassy.gov.au
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 10 to 12h

Consulate of France
Ronda Universitat, 22 bis, 4°
08007 Barcelona
Phone: +34 93 270 3000
Fax: +34 93 270 3049
Website: http://www.consulfrance-barcelone.org
E-mail: info@consulfrance-barcelone.org
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 10 to 13:30h

Consulate of Germany
Passeig de Gràcia, 111
08008 Barcelona
Phone: +34 93 29 21 000
Fax: +34 93 29 21 002
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30 to 12 h
E-mail: reg1@barc.auswaertiges-amt.de
Web site: http://www.barcelona.diplo.de

Consulate of Iceland
Sardenya, 229-237, s/át-3ª
08013 Barcelona
Phone: +34 93 232 5810
Fax: +34 93 244 4101
E-mail: conislandia@yahoo.es
Opening hours: Monday and Tuesday from 15:30 to 19h. Wednesday to Friday from 10:30 to 14h.

Consulate of Ireland
Gran Via Carles III, 94, 10º-2ª
08028 Barcelona
Phone: +34 93 491 5021
Fax: +34 93 490 0986
E-mail: cons.irl@webcat.es
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 10 to 13h

Consulate of Japan
Avinguda Diagonal, 640, 2º D
08017 Barcelona
Phone: +34 93 280 3433
Fax: 34 93 280 4496
Web: http://www.barcelona.es.emb-japan.go.jp
E-mail: bunka1@cgjb.net

Consulate of the Netherlands
Avinguda Diagonal, 601, 4º-D
08028 Barcelona
Phone: +34 93 363 5420
Fax: +34 93 410 3009
Web: http://www.cgholbar.org
E-mail: bar-info@minbuza.nl
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 10 to 13h

Consulate of New Zealand
Travessera de Gràcia, 64, 2º
08006 Barcelona
Phone: +34 93 209 0399
Fax: +93 202 0890
E-mail: Antonio.Volta@bufetevolta-longo.com

Consulate of Norway
Balmes, 184, 5º-2ª
08006 Barcelona
Phone: +34 932 18 4983
FAx: +34 93 238 0327
E-mail: cons.gral.bcna@terra.es

Consulate of South Africa
Travessera Gràcia, 43
08021 Barcelona
Phone¨+34 93 506 9100
Fax: +34 93 506 9197
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9 to 12h

Consulate of the United Kingdom
Avinguda Diagonal, 477, 13º
08036 Barcelona
Phone: +34 93 366 6200
Fax: +34 93 366 6221
Web: http://www.ukinspain.com
E-mail: uktibcn@cyberbcn.com
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9:30 to 14h

Consulate of the United States of America
Passeig Reina Elisenda de Montcada, 23
08034 Barcelona
Phone: +34 93 280 2227
Phone: +34 93 280 6175
Website: http://barcelona.usconsulate.gov
E-mail: consularbarcel@state.gov
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 10 to 13h

Click here for a complete list of consulates in Barcelona.

Finally, click here for useful information when visiting barcelona.

Cinemas in Barcelona

DJA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 10:59:00 +0000

Although the vast majority of movies are dubbed into Spanish, it is still possible to enjoy a film in its original language with subtitles in Spanish in some cinemas around Barcelona. This is a great option for native speakers or for Spanish people willing to learn English. However, be aware that subtitles in Spanish are added which can be a little bit anoying for the native speakers.

Exactly the same occurs on TV movies and series so do not expect to watch anything in English on the Spanish TV. The only exception would be TV3 as this is the only channel that allows listening to a movie or series in its original language. You just have to set it up with your remote control.

This is one of the main factors people in Spain have poor English compared to other european countries.

Here is a list of cinemas in Barcelona where it is possible to watch a film in its original version:

Icaria - Yelmo Cinemas - located next to the Port Olimpic within the Shopping Center "El Centre de la Vila" (Metro Station Ciutadella L4) . This is the largest cinema in Barcelona (15 screens) for movies in its original version. There is 1 hour free parking inside the cinema although should not be very hard to park outside the cinema. Tickets can be bought at 902 22 09 22. Spectator day: Monday.

C/ Salvador Espriú, 61 (Ctro. Cial. El Centre de la Vila - Port Olímpic)

Verdi Cinema - located within the Gracia area, is a very nice option as this area is full of nice pubs and restaurants in fashion (Metro Stations Fontana L3 and Joanic L4). The cinema has 5 screens. As difference from the one described above, this cinema usually offers non comercial movies. Tickets can be bought online by clicking here. Spectator day: Monday.

C/ Verdi 32
Tel. 93 238 79 90

Florida Blanca Cinema - Located very close from Plaza Universidad (city center metro Universitat L1 & L2 and Sant Antoni L2) it has 7 screens. Really nice and confortable (seats are extremelly confortable) Tickets can online by clicking here here or by calling 902 88 89 02. Spectator day: Mondays.

C/ Floridablanca 135

Tel. 93 426 33 37

Filmoteca de Catalunya - Located in the area of Sarria (metro stations: Hospital Clínic L5 or Drassanes L3). Old, traditional and alternative movies are shown in this cinema ... from Alfred Hitchcock to Woody Allen. Although it also shows more recent films such as Matrix, Horror movies, etc. Ticket price is only €2,70 and subscriptions are available.

Av. Sarriá 33

Cinema prices goes around €6,5-7€ although it depends on the cinema.

Tip: There is one 'special day' each week (usually monday or wednesday although it depends on the cinema) called "día del espectador" which could be translated as spectator's day so a discount of between €1,5 or €2 is applied on each ticket.

Motorcycles in Barcelona

DJA — Mon, 03 Sep 2007 19:01:00 +0000

Motorcycles are extremelly popular in Barcelona. Several are the reasons for this. First, they are generally less expensive and more fuel efficient than cars. Also they can be parked almost anywhere and for free, so in fact you will see them parked all over the city. Another important factor is the weather, which is generally mild all year.

One of the options to explore the city would be using a motorbike, however you should be aware that traffic in Bacelona is a little bit chaotic, specially during rush hour, so unless you are familiar riding a motorbike I wouldn't recommend it as it could be dangerous.

Trileros

DJA — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:31:00 +0000

If you see a group of people and one of them plays with three shakers or shells and a small ball on a cardboard or portable table, DO NOT STOP. That person will be asking people to guess where the ball is. Never guess as this is a swindle.

It seems in fact easy, but as we say in Barcelona "the hand is quicker than the eye" so simply don't try, in fact, don´t even get closer as you don't have any chance of winning and you will only be asking for trouble. Also, sometimes there are "pickpockets" around so don't even stay close to watch. You will never see locals playing at this, only tourists, so beware!

This scam is always performed by several people. The person moving the shakers/shells, two or three people betting (or pretending) and several checking that the police doesn't show up. One of them will shout "agua" (water) if they see a police officer getting closer and everybody will run away.

Sunscreen and sun glasses

DJA — Sat, 18 Aug 2007 15:01:00 +0000

During summer time, Barcelona can easily reach temperatures of over 30ºC (86ºF) so you should take some precautions when walking around the city. Always use sunscreen and sun glasses.

Use sunscreen products that protect against both UVB and UVA radiation and ensure that you use them even on a cloudy day as sun's rays can penetrate the clouds.

For optimal protection, apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes prior to sun exposure, and reapply every two hours. Sunscreen and aftersun lotion can be bought at any pharmacy or supermarket.

In conjunction with the above, it is also recommended wearing a baseball cap or a hat as it will proctect areas normally exposed to the sun such as neck, forehead and scalp.

Remember, get a tan don't get burnt.

Menu del Dia

DJA — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 20:44:00 +0000

First of all let us remind you of the local timetables as they are different to most European countries. Lunch and dinner in Spain usually start later than the rest of Europe. Locals will normally have lunch from 14.00 to 16.00 and dinner from 21.00 to 23.30.

At lunch time, the best option is the 'Menu del Dia' as it is a very economic way of trying typical Spanish cuisine. It consist of 2 main courses, bread, drinks and coffee or dessert for a fixed price of around €12, although price depends on the restaurant.

These are offered at lunch time Mon-Fri, although some restaurants offer this menu on Saturday usually at a higher price.

There are lots of offices around Passeig de Gracia (see area in the map), that means that there are lots of restaurants in the area, so instead of staying around the Ramblas for lunch, go to any of these restaurants, look for 'Menu del Dia' sign and if you see local people in there, just get in. You won't regret it.

Click here for a list of restaurants in Barcelona.

Bonus Restaurants: cheap and nice food

DJA — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 10:42:00 +0000

Here you will find a short list of a few restaurants with very very cheap prices located by the city center. Pay attention that these places are quite a treasure. Some of them are also specialised in anniversaires and hen parties for large groups of people.

MESÓN DAVID - Located in Calle Carretas 63 (Metro Paral.lel L3, near Rambla del Raval). Open for lunch and dinner all week except Mondays. This is certainly a boom not to be missed, for a very low price you will get such amazing plates as we would call them in Catalan 'plats casolans' or food that your own mom could cook. Better call for reservation if you are in a big group, otherwise it is not so necessary. Recommendation: Mot to miss the dessert called 'Pijama'.
Tel. 93 441 59 34
http://www.mesondavid.com

CASA DE ANDALUCIA - Located in Via Layetana 59 pral. 1ª (Metro Urquinaona L1 & L4). This is a traditional restaurant from Andalucía with all their magic and happy environment. They have large rooms to hold big groups in special parties. It is a kind of place that you will not imagine there is a restaurant until you are shown the place. Very very cheap prices, they have a Menu all days but also serve very good tapas and also sandwiches. It is mandatory to reserve before you go.
Tel. 93 302 04 03

TASCA I VINS - There are a few of them:
Industria 118 (Metro Sagrada Familia - Hospital San Pau L5) tel. 93 435 50 52
Cardenal Tedeschini 32 (Metro Congres L5) tel. 93 408 27 39
Diputación 304 (Metro Girona - Urquinaona L4 and L1) tel. 93 342 53 28
Marques de l´Argentera 13 (located in Borne - Metro Jaume I/Barceloneta L4) tel. 93 310 50 08
These are rustic restaurants with a long tradition within the city. Huge toasts with a large number of options to fill with ... a kind of pizza but with a toast below... very good and cheap.

Barcelona beaches

DJA — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 18:04:00 +0000

Barcelona has over 4km of sandy beaches which are always crowded with people sunbathing and swimming in the sea during summer time.

There are 7 beaches in total (Sant Sebastià, Barceloneta, Nova Icària, Bogatell, Mar Bella, Nova Mar Bella and Llevant), easily accessible using public transport.

How to get there:

- Sant Sebastià (Metro L4 - Barceloneta)
- Barceloneta (Metro L4 - Barceloneta and Ciutadella)
- Nova Icària (Metro L4 - Ciutadella and Bogatell)
- Bogatell (Metro L4 - Poblenou and Llacuna)
- Mar Bella (Metro L4 - Selva de Mar)
- Nova Mar Bella (Metro L4 - Selva de Mar and El Maresme)
- Llevant (Metro L4 - Selva de Mar)

All beaches are provided with disabled access, showers and lifeguards (during summer season) as well as parasol and beach chair rental services. The city council is putting a great effort into keeping them clean, both sand and water are cleaned daily.

Click here for furhter details regarding up to date information on water quality and beach condition.

Finally, be aware of the risks that large exposures to the sun can cause to your skin so take the following precautions: use enough sun cream protection at all time, and try avoiding the hours from 12 to 16. Also, ensure that you drink plenty of water.

Newsstands on Las Ramblas

DJA — Sat, 09 Jun 2007 16:57:00 +0000

Newsstands on Las Ramblas have a huge selection of newspapers and magazines from all over the world. You can find daily newspapers from all over the world. However, be aware that you are normally not allowed to touch and open the magazines.

Main newspapers in Barcelona are El Pais, El Mundo, La Vanguardia, El Periódico de Catalunya in Spanish and Avui in Catalan. There are also several sports newspapers: Sport, El Mundo Deportivo, Marca and AS. Be aware that the first two (Sport and El Mundo Deportivo) support F.C.Barcelona (local team) where the other two support R. Madrid (the 'enemy' of Barcelona).

Monument to Christopher Columbus

DJA — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 19:40:00 +0000

TheMonument to Christopher Columbus is located at the end of Las Rambas, just beside the harbour. Designed by Gaietà Buïgas for 1888 World Exposition, it commemorates the discovery of America.

A lift inside this impressive 60meter monument allow you to climb to the top, offering great views of Barcelona. At the top, each of the windows indicates the main attraction when looking through it.

Click here for other places to visit in Barcelona

Sant Jordi

DJA — Mon, 09 Apr 2007 13:28:00 +0000

April 23rd is the feast of Sant Jordi (Diada de Sant Jordi), the patron Saint of Catalonia. The tradition is that the man buys the woman a rose and the woman buys the man a book, although this is not just between lovers, it is also between friends, workmates, ... . It is a very colourful day as you will see almost everybody carrying at least one rose.

Although Sant Jordi is not a bank holiday, city centre is totally packed with people walking around looking for books and roses or simply enjoying the atmosphere. As it is also Book´s day (Dia del Llibre) there are lots of bookstalls where you can even see writers signing their own books.

It is a very romantic day, although in recent years is getting more commercial, but still a very enjoyable day

Tip: April 23rd is the only day of the year that the Palau de la Generalitat is open to the public. It is a magnificent building so it is a highly recommended visit. Big queues are expected so try to get there early.

Tags: sant jordi, dia del llibre

Tapas in Barcelona

DJA — Sat, 31 Mar 2007 10:08:00 +0000

Tapas, everybody has heard of tapas, but what exactly is a tapa? A tapa is a small portion of food that you get when ordering a drink, normally beer or wine. Depending on the bar, it can vary from peanuts to Spanish omelet or even a small portion of paella.

In some parts of Spain (e.g. Granada and Leon), the tapa is free. Unfortunately, this is not the case of Barcelona where you have to pay for them.

Here are some of the best tapas bars in Barcelona:

La Esquinica - C/ Fabra i Puig 192 (Metro L5 - Virrei Amat). Tel. 933582519.
Probably the best tapas bar in Barcelona. It is not located in the city center, therefore you will not find many tourists there. Large amount of tapas, really friendly staff and reasonable prices are the main characteristics.
The place is absolutely packed after 9pm so expect a long queue, so just try getting there before 9pm. Map.

Bar Tomás - C/ Major de Sarrià 49 (Metro L6 - Sarrià). Tel. 932031077.
Probably the best patatas bravas (spicy fried potatotes) in Barcelona. The place looks just normal from the outside however their patatas bravas are simply excellent. Prices are also very reasonable. Map.

Los Toreros - C/Xuclà 3-5 beside Las Ramblas (Metro L1, L3 - Plaça Catalunya). Tel. 933182325.
Typical Spanish restaurant with typical Spanish decoration. Wide of tapas. Localted in the city center. Map.

Tags: barcelona tapas, la esquinica, bar tomas

Restaurants in City Center

DJA — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 19:32:00 +0000

Here is a list of some nice restaurants in city center that you will probably not find in any guide, however we strongly recommend them:

Rita Blue: located in Sant Agustí Square s/n next to Las Ramblas. Splendid restaurant with lovely full-coloured environment. Tapas, starters, salads, kebabs, pasta, steak, fish... all high quality. This restaurant is very well known for their exotic cocktails.
Tel. 93 342 40 86
http://www.ritablue.com/

Mercat Santa Caterina: located within Santa Caterina Market next to Catedral. This is a restaurant where all kind of food can be served: tapas, vegetarian food, Mediterranean food, Asiatic food, Indian food, pasta, meat, fish ... Really nice and beautiful place.
Tel. 93 268 99 18 (no telephone reservation possible)

Restaurant RA: located in Gardunya Square (behind Mercat de Boqueria in Las Ramblas). As described in their own website this is a Bar & Terrace restaurant. All food is served in a very attractive and appetizing way. Very friendly staff in a young and international environment.
Tel. 615 959 872
http://www.ratown.com/

La Dolça Herminia: located in Magdalenes 27 next to Via Layetana. Elegant restaurant that offers delicious Mediterranean and Vegetarian food. Highly recommended and with very reasonable prices.
Tel. 93 317 06 76

Julivert Meu: located in Bon Succés 7 next to Las Ramblas. This is non-fashionable restaurant but higly recommended for those who want to live the experience of tasting the Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine.
Tel. 93 318 03 43

El Trillo: located in Carrer dels Angels 3 next to MACBA museum and Las Ramblas. Very small but gorgeous and romantic restaurant. Specially recommended for couples. Mediterranean and Andalucia food.
Tel. 93 443 93 17

Click here for further recommendations.

Tags: barcelona restaurant, el trillo, julivert meu, la dolça herminia, mercat santa caterina, RA

Lluís Domènech i Montaner

DJA — Sun, 11 Mar 2007 21:08:00 +0000

Lluís Domènech i Montaner (1850 - 1923) , architect, potilitian and writer born in Barcelona. Registered as an architect in Barcelona in 1873. In 1875, became professor and director at the Barcelona's School of Arquitecture (Escola d'Arquitectura de Barcelona).

Along with Antoni Gaudí, one of the representative of the Modernisme Català (Art Nouveau). His most famous works, the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and the Palau de la Música Catalana have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Buildings designed by Domènech i Montaner:

Hospital of the Holy Cross and Saint Paul (Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau) 1901-1930
Built between 1901 and 1930.
In 1997 it was added as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Address: Carrer Sant Antoni Maria Claret / Cartagena.

Catalan Music Palace (Palau de la Musica Catalana)
Built between 1905 and 1908. In 1997 it was added as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Address: Sant Pere Més Alt 13, Barri Gòtic, Ciutat Vella, Barcelona

Montaner i Simon Publishing House (Editorial Montaner i Simon)
Built between 1879 and 1895.
Currently home of the Antoni Tapies Foundation
Address: Carrer Aragó 255, off Passeig de Gràcia

Fuster House (Casa Fuster).
Built between 1908 and 1911.
Currently home of the 5-star hotel Casa Fuster Hotel
Address: Passeig de Gracia 132

Ramon Montaner Palace (Palau Ramon Montaner)
Carrer Mallorca 278

Thomas House (Casa Thomas)
Built between 1895 and 1898.
It was the workshop and residence of the engraver J.Thomas.
Address: Carrer Mallorca 291

Lleó Morera House (Casa lleó Morera)
Built between 1902 and 1906.
Address: Passeig de Gràcia 35.

Three Dragons Castle (Castell del Tres Dragons).
Currently home of the Zoological Museum.

Click here for a list of places to visit in Barcelona.

Tags: domenech i montaner, modernisme barcelona

Clickair

DJA — Sun, 25 Feb 2007 13:18:00 +0000

Clickair is Iberia's low cost airline based in Barcelona airport (El Prat), and will start operating on March 1st 2007 with very competitive prices.

Currently, 41 routes will be operated by Clickair, 31 internationals and 10 nationals.

Routes to Spanish cities:

Amsterdam	Edinburgh	Moscow	Rome
Athens	Frankfurt	Munich	Tanger
Berlin	Geneva	Nador	Tunez
Bucharest	Helsinki	Naples	Warsaw
Budapest	Lisbon	Oporto	Venice
Casablanca	Lyon	Palermo	Verona
Dublin	Malta	Pisa	Viena
Dubrovnik	Marrakech	Prague	Zurich

Routes to European cities:

La Coruna	Granada	Ibiza	Jerez
Minorca	Malaga	Santiago de Compostela	Seville
Valencia	Vigo

Clickair will compete with Ryanair, although Clickair will fly directly to Barcelona airport and when booking a flight, show final price (including taxes) from the beginning of the process, so check Clickair before getting your flights.

Tags: clickair, barcelona

Traditional Catalan cuisine

DJA — Sat, 10 Feb 2007 20:31:00 +0000

Catalan Cuisine is based on fresh fruit and vegetables, meats and fish of great quality and last but not least olive oil. One of the secrets of Mediterranean Cuisine is that food is cooked in olive oil giving food a very special taste. Olive oil also helps to reduce the amount of cholesterol reducing the risk of heart disease.

Here are some examples of Catalan dishes:

Main courses:
Pa amb tomàquet, bread with tomato rubbed over and seasoned with olive oil and salt.
All i oli, sauce made of garlic and olive oil and salt. It is traditionally served with grilled meats or vegetables.
Fuet, dry sausage of pork meat in a pork gut.
Mongetes amb botifarra, beans and pork sausage.
Escalivada, various grilled vegetables seasoned with olive oil and salt.
Calçots, grilled onions.
Escudella i carn d'olla, Catalan stew.
Arròs negre, rice with squid. The rice obtains a black colour from the ink squid. Traditionally served with All i Oli.
Canalons gratinats amb bechamel, pasta filed with meat (chicken, veal and pork) and baked with bechamel on top. Traditionally served on St. Stephen's day (26th of December).

Desserts:
Crema catalana, custard base with caramelized sugar on top.
Mel i mató, fresh cheese with honey. Probably the most typical catalan dessert.

Tags: catalan cuisine, mediterranean cuisine

Questions or Comments

DJA — Sat, 27 Jan 2007 12:13:00 +0000

Did you find what you were searching on this website? We can´t predict the future but we can assist you from here if you are coming over ... what do you want to know?

From now on, you can email us your questions, comments or suggestions through this feed-back. We will try to solve all your doubts, just ask us: tourisminbarcelona@gmail.com

Best Regards,

Tourism in BCN team

F.C.Barcelona

DJA — Fri, 19 Jan 2007 17:51:00 +0000

Futbol Club Barcelona, normally known as Barça, is one of the best teams (if not the best) in Europe.
Although F.C.Barcelona has several professional and amateur sports teams (football, basketball, handball, futsal and roller hockey, rugby, athletics, baseball, ...), it is best know for its football team. Founded in 1899 by Joan Gamper, it currently has more than 150.000 members.

Current champion of the Spanish League (la Liga) and the UEFA Champions League.

The Camp Nou is FCBarcelona's main stadium, with a capacity of 98.000 it is one of the biggest and best stadiums in Europe.

Unfortunately that is not enough to allocate all its members, therefore it is quite difficult for newer members to get season tickets although they have preference over non-members when trying to get tickets.

Ticket price

Price depens on the team playing against and the location of the seats:

	C	B	A	A+
Tribuna 1/2	61	88	124	170
Tribuna 3	56	82	117	153
Lateral 1/2	46	67	98	134
Lateral 3	40	57	84	117
Gol 1/2	33	48	71	94
Gol 3	26	40	61	84
General	18	30	50	73
Member discount	20%	20%	20%	20%
Team	Gimnàstic	Zaragoza	Osasuna	R. Madrid
	Racing	Sevilla	Valencia
	Celta	Villareal	Espanyol
	Recreativo	Real Sociedad	Mallorca
		At. Madrid
		Betis
		Deportivo
		Levante
		Ath. Bilbao
Champions League		Group Stages	Group Stages	Group Stages

Teams are divided into different categories (C, D, A, A+). GENERAL are the cheapest seats as they are the highest seats, although there is a decent view. GOAL seats are located behind the goals. Finally LATERAL and TRIBUNA are side stands (no difference at all between them on terms of view) however TRIBUNA is where the president seats so it si more expensive.

Tickets can be obtained at ticket offices at the Nou Camp, or by calling 902 1899 00, at the ServiCaixa ATMs or on the internet at the F.C.B web page.

FCB Museum

It is one of Barcelona's main atractions, named after the former president Josep Lluis Nuñez, it is the most visited museum in Catalunya with over 1.160.000 visits last year. The price of the museum is €7, or €11 including the Camp Nou which I strongly recommend.

The FCB Museum including the Camp Nou tour is highly recommended, I would describe it as "must see".

Click here for a list of sport events in Barcelona.

Tags: F.C. Barcelona, FCB, Futbol Club Barcelona