Visiting Barcelona can be a wonderful experience, but time and time again, I see people making the same mistakes that can ruin their trip! Here’s what NOT to do in Barcelona so you can avoid the typical Barcelona tourist traps and scams, and don’t make these common mistakes!
While there aren’t too many things to avoid in Barcelona, I want to help you to have the best possible time here, so follow these tips and you should be fine!
Planning & Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Barcelona
Flying into the Wrong Airport
There is only one airport in Barcelona that is connected to the city by direct train, metro and bus services, and that is Barcelona El Prat (BCN) airport.
Some low-cost airlines suggest that airports like Girona (GRO) and Reus (REU) are also Barcelona – but flying into one of those airports is much less convenient and requires a long bus or train & bus transfer, or over an hour’s drive by taxi.
If that is the only option then it isn’t the end of the world, but flying into BCN can have you in the centre of Barcelona in as little as 20 minutes, so choose that airport if you can!
Not Buying Entry Tickets in Advance
Barcelona is a popular place, and major attractions like the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the Picasso Museum often sell out days in advance. Make sure you book tickets online well in advance to make sure you can visit the sites on your preferred day and time, and don’t miss out!
I use GetYourGuide to book skip-the-line entry tickets and tours in Barcelona as I love how you can choose from a variety of options to find the best for you, comparing prices and reading reviews.
Using GetYourGuide means you also get immediate confirmation once you’ve booked, which is perfect for last-minute plans, and (in many cases) when you book in advance you can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity in case your plans change.
Some tours and attractions in Barcelona I recommend booking in advance include:
- Sagrada Familia Entry Ticket – don’t miss out, tickets can sell out weeks in advance!
- Sagrada Familia Tour – learn more about Gaudí with a guided tour
- Camp Nou and FC Barcelona Museum – a must for football fans
- Park Güell – a beautiful park with views of the city
- Casa Batlló – one of Gaudí’s most magical buildings
- La Pedrera (Casa Mila) – another of Gaudí’s famous buildings
Sticking Only to the Tourist Hotspots
While places like La Rambla and La Sagrada Família are must-sees in Barcelona, of course, everyone goes there, so they are usually crowded and don’t show the full diversity of the city.
There is much more to Barcelona than these famous attractions, so take the time to explore beyond the major sites and see more of the culture of the city, visiting different neighbourhoods and wandering quieter streets see more of what Barcelona has to offer.
➡️Read more: Hidden Gems in Barcelona
Staying in an Airbnb in Barcelona
There has been a lot of media coverage lately about the problems of overtourism in Barcelona, and Airbnb is usually named as a major factor contributing to overtourism.
While Airbnb started as a way to meet local people who would rent out a room in their house, these days, Airbnb is full of short-term rental apartments that are owned by businesses. These businesses would rather rent out the apartment to tourists instead of local people, as tourists will pay much more per night than someone renting on a long-term contract.
This has contributed to the housing shortage in Barcelona, and rental prices in the city have sky-rocketed as demand for apartments has increased. Local people can’t afford the high prices and so are either forced to move out of the city, to live with their parents, or rent a room in a shared apartment – which have also increased in price.
It’s important to note that Airbnb is not the only booking platform that does this, but Airbnb is the largest and most (in)famous booking site like this around the world. Other sites to look out for include VRBO, Booking and others.
So, instead of staying in a tourist apartment that should be someone’s home, check out these Airbnb alternatives that you can book with a clear conscience!
Forgetting About Sundays & Mondays
Many shops, including most supermarkets, close on Sundays – as does the Boqueria Market and most other neighbourhood markets. Then, on Mondays, most of the museums in Barcelona are closed, and many restaurants close, so make sure you check opening times before you plan your Barcelona itinerary!
There are plenty of other things you can do to keep busy if you are here on a Sunday or Monday, but remember to check if everything you want to visit is open on the days you’ll be in Barcelona.
Food Mistakes to Avoid in Barcelona
Eating on La Rambla
Restaurants on La Rambla are aimed firmly at tourists, meaning low quality and high prices. There is nothing worse than eating frozen paella and chewy calamari and paying silly amounts for it, so save your money and find a local restaurant to enjoy instead.
Even a street or two away from La Rambla you can find some fantastic Catalan restaurants at a fraction of the price. You can even find a couple of great tapas bars in La Boqueria Market, but I prefer to eat in Santa Catarina Market or somewhere in the Gothic Quarter or El Raval.
The exception to the rule is GIL x Espai Moja, an upscale Catalan bakery on La Rambla with traditional coca toasted breads with various toppings, and delicious desserts to try. It’s not the cheapest place to eat, but it is good!
Placa Reial is quite touristy but a pleasant place to sit, with some good restaurants like Ocaña. Personally, I love Bar del Pi for old school tapas and nearby La Pallaresa Xocolateria Xurreria for hot chocolate and churros (long donuts).
In the Gothic Quarter, try Cafè de L’Acadèmia, Bodega La Palma, or La Vinateria del Call (only lunch on Friday & Saturday, otherwise for dinner).
And although it is absolutely not Catalan, you can get fantastic gelato at Lucciano’s or Anita Gelato!
Missing Out on the “Menu del Día”
Another foodie mistake you might make in Barcelona is to miss out on a “menu del día” (menu of the day) at a local restaurant. These 3 or 4 course menus are great value, and are usually available for lunchtimes only, more commonly during the week but occasionally at the weekend too.
Menus usually include a starter, main course, and a drink, and sometimes a dessert and coffee as well. It’s a great way to try local dishes at a reasonable price, so look out for them!
Not Trying Local Wines and Cava
Catalonia has a strong tradition of wine and cava (sparkling wine) production, which many tourists overlook and just go for a jug of sangria. Make sure you ask for local wines and cava from the wine regions in Catalonia, such as Penedès, Emporda or Priorat.
You can find local wines at a restaurant or a wine bar, or better yet, take a wine-tasting tour to visit a vineyard close to the city. These wine tours make a fantastic day trip from Barcelona and often include a tasty lunch too!
Eating at Fast Food Chains
I know that grabbing a McDonald’s or Burger King is quick and easy, but don’t underestimate how delicious Catalan food can be! And if you are in a hurry, there is some incredible street food in Barcelona that you can grab to go – it doesn’t have to be a sit-down meal or more expensive than fast food.
If you’re not sure what kind of food you might like, order several tapas dishes (which come in small portions designed to share) so you can try a bit of everything! Read more in my guide to What to Eat in Barcelona.
Not Understanding the Tipping Culture
Tipping etiquette in Barcelona is quite different from the US and other countries. Tipping is not obligatory in Spain, but it’s nice to leave a small tip (5-10%) for good service in restaurants. For more casual tapas bars you can round up the bill or leave a couple of euros.
Barcelona Safety Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating Pickpocketing Risks
Barcelona has a horrible reputation for pickpocketing, particularly in crowded areas like La Rambla, the metro, and popular tourist spots. While some people are lucky enough not to have any trouble with pickpockets in Barcelona, make sure you don’t get caught out.
Be vigilant with your belongings, especially on the metro and in busy areas. Use a crossbody bag with ziplocked pockets and/or hidden pocket clothing to keep your passport and wallet safe. I always keep my hand on my bag at all times, and recommend you so the same!
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and NEVER carry your phone or wallet in your jacket or pants pocket!
Falling For a Scam
While Barcelona is generally very safe, there are some common tourist scams that you could fall victim to. Be on your guard (without being paranoid), and pay particular attention to groups of people coming close to you or offering to help clean off bird poop!
I have a separate article on common scams in Barcelona, so make sure you read that so you know what else to look out for, from people with balloons offering to take pictures, to airport scammers!
Underestimating the Weather
Barcelona’s Mediterranean climate can be very hot and humid in summer, and surprisingly cool in winter, especially if your accommodation doesn’t have heating. Tourists often arrive unprepared for the weather and can end up sunburned and dehydrated or needing to buy an extra jacket in winter!
Check the forecast before your trip and pack your bags accordingly. Always wear sunscreen (even on cloudy days), and bring a hat, sunglasses and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
In winter, pack layers to stay warm, and with the amount of rain we’re having lately, an umbrella is a good idea too. As an added extra, I love having a pair of slippers or thick socks for my apartment, as it doesn’t have carpet!
➡️Read more: The Ultimate Barcelona Packing List
Cultural Mistakes in Barcelona to Avoid
Not Respecting Local Customs
Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, a region of Spain which has its own distinct language, culture, and identity. Catalans can be fiercely proud of their culture and often do not like being referred to as Spanish.
Try to learn a few basic phrases in Catalan and understand the importance of Catalan culture.
There are lots of cultural experiences you can do in Barcelona to learn more about the history and culture of Catalonia, from a food tour to a language class or visiting the wonderful MNAC Catalan Art Museum or the MUHBA Barcelona History Museum.
Also, remember that siesta is still observed in many places, meaning some shops may close in the afternoon.
Assuming Everyone Speaks English
While most people in Barcelona do speak English, especially in tourist areas, assuming that everyone understands you perfectly is a step too far! Instead of expecting everyone to speak English, try to learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or preferably Catalan.
Locals always appreciate the effort – especially with Catalan – and are more likely to offer help if you try to speak their language.
Here are a few words and phrases in Catalan to get you started:
Hello: Hola (oh-la)
Good day: Bon dia (bon dee-ah)
Thank you: Merci (mer-see)
Do you speak English?: parles anglès (par-las ang-gles)?
I’m sorry: perdó (par-doh)
Ignoring Local Festivals and Events
Barcelona has a cultural calendar packed full with city-wide events like La Mercè in September and Sant Jordi in April, as well as various neighbourhood festivals throughout the year.
Taking part in an event or festival is the chance for a unique experience while you’re in Barcelona, and watching a team of castellers build a human tower will never fail to take your breath away!
Check out what’s happening during your visit (this list of Barcelona festivals is a good place to start) and try to catch some local festivities to immerse yourself in Catalan culture.
Misjudging the Daily Schedule
Barcelonins eat late, with lunch typically around 2-3pm and dinner often after 9 or even 10pm. Tourists who aren’t aware of this may find restaurants closed when they want to eat, so try to adjust your eating schedule to fit better with local timings.
That doesn’t mean you have to wait until 10pm to have dinner, but even waiting until 7pm is much better than 6pm. I often find the best time to have dinner is at 8pm, when restaurants are open but still relatively quiet before the locals come in!
If you’re not used to dining late, have a snack to keep you going – even some olives or a plate of tapas in the afternoon can see you through!
Also, don’t forget that some shops and businesses will close for siesta from around 2-4pm. While the major tourist attractions remain open, some smaller museums will close, and some shops and services like the post office, bank and pharmacy are likely to close.
Being Careless with Beach Etiquette
Barcelona’s beaches are beautiful, but there are rules and etiquette that should be followed so everyone can enjoy the beach properly. Barcelona’s beaches are non-smoking, and make sure you clean up any rubbish.
Topless sunbathing is common (but optional), and there are some nudist beaches where it is not unusual to see people letting it all hang out. Be respectful of the designated areas and don’t stare or take photos!
Once you leave the beach, make sure you cover up as you may get fined for just wearing a swimsuit in the city centre.
Buying Cheap Souvenirs
Please, please, please don’t buy a thong that says I ❤️Big Bo*bs or some other tacky slogan. Flamenco and bulls have very little to do with Catalan culture, so instead of buying something from the hundreds of souvenir shops selling tourist tat, look for an authentic souvenir from Barcelona in artisan shops where you can find local specialities.
Barcelona Transport Mistakes to Avoid
Using Taxis Instead of Public Transport
Barcelona’s public transport system is efficient, affordable, and eco-friendly, and the best way to get around the city easily. Taxis, on the other hand, can be expensive, and heavy traffic can slow you down. Of course it’s also more environmentally friendly to use public transport.
Use the metro, buses, or trams to get around and consider buying a T Casual 10 journey ticket or an Hola BCN card for unlimited travel. HOWEVER do watch out for pickpockets on the metro and buses!
➡️Read more: How to Get Around Barcelona
Underestimating Walking Distances (and Hills!)
Barcelona is larger than it seems, and while the Gothic Quarter and El Born are lovely to explore on foot, other attractions are spread out around the rest of the city. It is easy to underestimate the time it takes to walk between sites, especially if you want to walk to Park Güell – which is up a steep hill!
Plan your day with the help of a map and itinerary, grouping nearby attractions to minimize walking time. Wear comfortable shoes and use public transport when necessary, or have a rest and relax with a cup of coffee or a drink in between visits!
I hope these Barcelona travel tips will help you to enjoy your visit to the city, and give you an idea of what to look out for so you can avoid these typical tourist mistakes in Barcelona! While there are no fixed rules, these suggestions for what to avoid in Barcelona should help you to have the best possible experience!
Want Some More Ideas for Things to Do in Barcelona?
Check out these blog posts for more inspiration for your Barcelona vacation, or head back to our homepage to browse all of our Barcelona planning tips. You can also head over to our Facebook group to ask any questions.