Author: Natàlia Gibernau

10 Barcelona sayings that will inspire you

March 10, 2023March 10, 2023Natàlia Gibernau

Barcelona sayings about the city, its streets and lifestyle.

Sometimes all you need is an inspirational saying or quote to change your whole mood. And even better if that saying is about your favourite city break destination: Barcelona!

Open your mind and allow these many different perspectives of the city to inspire you to come visit. From famous writers who called Barcelona home for a number of years to singer-songwriters who were inspired by the city. Not forgetting some typical Barcelona sayings in Catalan, the region’s official language.

1. Barcelona es bona si la bossa sona, però tant si sona com si no sona, Barcelona sempre és bona.

This typical Catalan saying was apparently coined by merchants who, when docking in the city to seek out potential buyers, would say that Barcelona was a good place only if they were able to sell their cargo!

2. In Barcelona I learnt things I thought I knew, when I actually knew nothing at all.

Roberto Bolaño

Roberto Bolaño was a Chilean writer who arrived in Barcelona when he was 27. He’d spend three years in the city, living in the district of Raval, with this Barcelona saying a beautiful reminder that, in actual fact, knowledge isn’t everything.

3. Barcelona is a very old city in which you can feel the weight of history; it is haunted by history. You cannot walk around it without perceiving it.
Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Carlos Ruiz Zafon was a novelist, born in Barcelona, whose name has become synonymous with the city thanks to his famous Shadow of the Wind series. This is just one of his Barcelona saying, but there are many more!

4. Being in Barcelona “was the first time that I had ever been in a town where the working class was in the saddle”.

George Orwell

When writer George Orwell first arrived in Barcelona in 1936, he was astounded to find a city which lived and breathed revolution. It was in his novel ‘Homage to Catalonia’ that he penned the above words, inspired by the city’s spirit to keep fighting.

5. Barcelona is Gaudí’s and Rome is da Vinci’s.

Kamand Kojouri

Author Kamand Kojouri couldn’t have got it more right. Barcelona is a city in which Gaudí is everywhere. There’s Casa Battló and La Pedrera, his masterpiece the Sagrada Familia that towers over the city, and his sanctuary Parc Guell, to name but a few!

6. We were young, weren’t we? And Barcelona seemed not only beautiful and cultured, but, above all, the most fun city in the world.
Mario Vargas Llosa

We love this Barcelona saying by Peruvian writer and Nobel prize winner Mario Vargas Llosa, who lived in the city in the 70s. We completely agree, Barcelona simply has it all!

7. Roda el món i torna al Born

Another typical Barcelona saying in Catalan, which can be translated as “Travel the world and return to el Born”. In this way, it pays homage to the city’s beautiful central district, home to culture, shops and history, a place every traveller always dreams of going back to, no matter all the other places around the globe they see.

8. Barcelona was a mythical memory

Gabriel García Márquez

This Barcelona saying is by this famous writer, author of ‘A Hundred Years of Solitude’, who lived in the city for almost a decade. It captures perfectly the city’s fleeting essence, its streets steeped in history, and the feeling that once you leave being there feels like it was almost nothing but a dream. It is said that his novel ‘The Autumn of the Patriarch’ was written during his time here.

9. To travel across Spain and finally to reach Barcelona is like drinking a respectable red wine and finishing up with a bottle of champagne.

James A. Michener

This Barcelona saying reminds us that the city is like a bubbly glass of champagne, or rather cava. It is a place bubbling with life and simply irresistible!

10. The only street in the world which I wish would never end.

Federico García Lorca

This Barcelona saying can be attributed to the famous Spanish poet who was referring to Las Ramblas. Brimming with life and never empty, this sprawling promenade is a must see on your trip to the city. We think it’s one of the happiest streets in the world – but we’ll let you decide!

And unfortunately, this article has come to an end! We hope these Barcelona sayings inspired you to book your next trip to the city!

Public Transport in Barcelona (How to Get Around Barcelona)

March 8, 2023March 9, 2023Natàlia Gibernau

Guessing how to use public transport in Barcelona?

Public transport in any city can be an odyssey, but with this complete guide to getting around Barcelona we’ve got you covered.

Moving around Barcelona is easy and also fun thanks to its public network of commuter trains, buses, metros, trams, and even a cable car.

You’ve booked your apartment with bizFlats, but now you probably have any questions like, how much is public transport in Barcelona? And, what is the bus timetable?

Read on to find the answers these questions and more!

Public transport in Barcelona: Metro

There are a total of eight metro lines throughout the city to take you from one side to the other. The metro is often the transport of choice for locals and tourists alike thanks to its 161 stations dotted around the city and reduced waiting times. It is truly a quick and easy way to get around.

Metro tickets

When getting your ticket, it’s important to know that the city’s public transport system is integrated, meaning its tickets are valid for all modes of public transport (metro, bus, commuter train and tram), for a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes. What’s more, if you’re staying within the city a Zone 1 ticket will suffice.

Tickets can be bought from the ticket offices or machines located in the stations themselves. Don’t forget to insert your ticket into the ticket turnstile to access the platforms. In every station you’ll find a map and list of stops for the line you’re travelling on.

Public transport in Barcelona - Metro Map Barcelona — Public Transport in Barcelona – Metro Map

Types of public transport ticket

Choose your tickets depending on how long you’re staying in the city and how many trips you need to make. As mentioned, these tickets are valid for the city’s tram, bus and metro services:

Single trip: €2.40
T-Casual: €11.35 (10 trips)
T-Usual: from €40 (unlimited, 30 days)
T-Familiar: €10 (8 trips, interchangeable)

There is also the exclusive Hola Barcelona ticket starting at €14.67, and valid for 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours, which gives unlimited travel throughout the city and includes the airport train and Montjuic cable car.

Metro timetable

The Barcelona metro runs from 5 am to midnight on Monday to Thursday, Sundays and bank holidays (you can check a list of local holidays for 2021 here). On Fridays and the eve before bank holidays it runs from 5 am to 2 am.

Public transport in Barcelona: Buses

With more than 1,000 buses, getting around Barcelona couldn’t be easier. What’s more, these hybrid vehicles are better for the environment and are one of the cleanest bus services in Europe. We recommend checking the official bus map here so you can plan your trip.

The buses in Barcelona have a number and either the letter V (vertical), H (horizontal) and D (diagonal) depending on the direction they travel in the city or N (night) for the nocturnal buses, which run every half hour after 10.40 pm.

To know which bus you should take from one place to another you can use this website: Vull Anar

Bus tickets

The tickets for the bus are the same as those mentioned above for the metro and can be bought at metro stations, ticket machines at bus stops and stations, and online and on the TMB app. Don’t forget to validate your ticket once on board.

Bus timetable

The timetable depends on the particular bus line you wish to take. The majority start between 5 am and 8 am and run until 10–11 pm.

Barcelona Tourist Bus

The Barcelona City Tour is the city’s official hop-on hop-off service for tourists. Tickets start at €27 for adults and €14.40 for children and can be bought online here.

These red double-decker buses run from 9 am to 7 pm and offer a West route (including La Rambla, Montjuic and Camp Nou) and an East route (including the Sagrada Família, Tibidabo and Park Güell).

Airport Public transport in Barcelona

There are several ways to get to and from the airport in Barcelona.

– The metro line (L) runs to both T1 and T2 and a one-way ticket is €5.15.

– The aerobus service, which starts and ends at Plaça Cataluña (and has several stops in the city) also goes to T1 and T2. A one-way ticket costs €5.90 and a round trip is €10.20.

– The train service (R2 Nord) runs from Passeig de Gràcia and Sants Estació and takes around 20–25 minutes. You can check the timetable here and a single ticket costs €4.60.

Electric motorbikes: getting around Barcelona

Barcelona also has many electric motorbikes that can be rented by the minute. Beat the traffic and get from A to Z easily and quickly with this sustainable form of transport. Check out the following apps that operate in Barcelona to compare availability and prices.

Ecooltra
Yego
SCOOT
Muving
Acciona
Reby

For more information about the costs of public transport you can check out our article on the cost of living in Barcelona here and getting a taxi in Barcelona here. We hope this article makes getting around Barcelona a lot easier!

Things to Do in One day in the Gothic Quarter

March 1, 2023March 3, 2023Natàlia Gibernau

The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is steeped in history and brimming with charm. From its narrow cobbled streets, stunning architecture and historical ornament, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.

But, we hear you ask, how many buildings in the Gothic Quarter are actually Gothic? In actual fact, fewer than you would imagine, as many of the buildings in this quarter were built in the 19th and 20th centuries. However, this doesn’t take away from the fact that this neighbourhood is one of Barcelona’s most beautiful!

This article is packed with the best tips and things to see in one day in Barcelona’s stunning Gothic Quarter – discover its most historical monuments, hidden-away squares and the history written on its walls.

Things to do in the gothic quarter — Things to Do in the Gothic Quarter

Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia (Barcelona Cathedral)

Plà de la Seu

We’ll start our tour of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter – previously known as the Cathedral Quarter – at this stunning monument. Built during the 13th and 14th centuries, this is one of the few examples of Catalan Gothic architecture in this area. Get your tickets online here starting from €9, or visit in the morning before 12:45 or in the evening after 17:30 for free admission.

Eglésia de Santa Maria del Pi

Plaça del Pi

Another truly Gothic gem in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona is this stunningly beautiful 14th-century church. Don’t miss its stunning stained glass rose window and its tranquil interior, which often hosts candlelit concerts.

Plaça Sant Felipe Neri

This quaint square in the Gothic Quarter is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre for a moment of peace. Yet the vestiges of its tragic past are visible on the walls of its Baroque church, which was subject to a horrific attack during the Spanish Civil War in January 1938.

Shopping at Avinguda Portal de l’Àngel

One of Barcelona’s liveliest shopping streets can be found in the Gothic Quarter. Head south from Plaça Catalunya and you can’t miss this commercial hub. With some of the best brands – including Zara, Mango, H&M, Pull&Bear and more – you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Plaça Sant Jaume

This square in the Gothic Quarter is home to the Casa de la Ciutat (the City Council) of Barcelona, which despite being built in the 14th century, has a neoclassical façade. It’s open to the public on Sundays from 10am to 2pm and admission is free.

This square is also home to the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya – the seat of the Catalan government – with Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance features.

Museu d’Història de Barcelona, MUHBA

Plaça del Rei

Step back in time at the Barcelona History Museum, where you can explore the ruins of the Roman settlement of Barcino. Here you’ll find the remnants of a former fish factory, a bodega, a church and more!

‘The Kiss’ Mural

Plaça d’Isidre Nonell

One of the most photographed spots in Barcelona is in the Gothic Quarter! This unique piece of street art is made up of hundreds of mosaic photo tiles submitted by locals capturing their very own ‘moments of freedom’.

Find more instagrammable spots in the Gothic Quarter and further afield in our article.

El Pont del Bisbe (The Bishop’s Bridge)

Carrer del Bisbe

This narrow cobbled street and bridge is one of the most famous sights in the Gothic Quarter. Despite its appearance, its not even 100 years old, and was built by Joan Rubió – one of Gaudí’s disciples – to join these two buildings.

Plaça Reial

This beautiful square shaded by palm trees was once home to the Caputxins Convent. Today, its stunning architecture overlooks some of the city’s most popular nightlife spots, and you’ll often stumble across street performers and artists in one of the city’s liveliest squares.

Don’t miss the two street lamps in its centre designed by Gaudí himself. If you want to discover more pieces by the master of modernisme, check out our article here.

El Temple d’August

Carrer del Paradís, 10

This Roman temple dedicated to the Emperor Augustus is a hidden gem in the city’s Gothic Quarter. What’s left today are four beautifully preserved columns surrounded by a peaceful courtyard, just behind the cathedral.

So there you have it, our mini guide to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Don’t forget to check out our apartments in the Gothic Quarter to make sure you don’t miss a thing on your trip to Barcelona.

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Thing to do in the Gothic quarter in one day

Barcelona in Spring – Top 10 Things You Can’t Miss

February 23, 2023February 23, 2023Natàlia Gibernau

Barcelona in spring has something magical about it. The winter chill is fading away and the first hints of warm weather are starting to appear. The Catalan capital is blessed with a mild Mediterranean climate and almost 365 days of sun a year, making it an ideal destination for visitors looking to escape the colder temperatures elsewhere in Europe.

From strolling along its beaches to exploring the historic neighborhoods and indulging in the local cuisine, Barcelona has plenty to offer in the springtime. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top things to do in Barcelona in spring, whether it’s your first time in this vibrant cultural hub or you’re a seasoned visitor to the Catalan capital.

Get ready to experience the best of this vibrant city as the season blooms!

Barcelona in Spring - Plaça Reial — Barcelona in Spring – Plaça Reial

1. Relax in the parks of Barcelona

Barcelona in spring the perfect time to visit the city’s romantic parks. Get lost in the magical maze at the Laberint d’Horta or visit the Ciutadella park with its stunning artificial waterfall and lake. There’s always something going on here, from street performers to yoga classes – the perfect plan as the weather starts to warm up. Find out more about our favourite parks in Barcelona here.

2. Get lost in the Gothic quarter

Exploring the narrow streets of the city’s oldest neighborhood is one of our favourite plans in Barcelona in spring. Take an afternoon to discover its rich history and architecture, enjoying the mild weather and stumbling upon hidden gems, such as the medieval squares, charming shops and Gothic-style buildings.

3. Take a day trip

Barcelona in spring is the perfect time to visit the stunning seafront town of Sitges, renowned for its world-famous nightlife, being a top LGTBI+ destination and its carnaval from 16 to 22 February. There’s also the nearby Montserrat and its imposing jagged mountain, only a short train ride away. Discover its Benedictine monastery and natural park with hiking trails and breathtaking views. Check out our top 8 day trips from Barcelona.

4. Hit the beaches

You’ll find locals and visitors alike soaking up the sun and sea in Barcelona in spring. Head to the Barceloneta or Bogatell beaches to try your hand at volleyball, take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean or catch some rays. Barcelona has nine beaches for you to visit. Check out our complete guide here.

5. Explore Park Güell

This colourful park designed by Antoni Gaudí is one of the city’s top attractions, and even more so in the spring. As you wander around this beautiful landmark, contemplate the inspired mosaics and weird and wonderful sculptures in the soft spring light and bask in the magical atmosphere.

6. Visit Montjuïc Castle

Overlooking the city is this 17th-century fortress with stunning panoramic views of Barcelona. The castle’s gardens come to life with colourful flowers and trees in bloom, making it a picturesque spot for a picnic or a romantic stroll.

7. Celebrate Easter in Barcelona

Easter Sunday falls on 9th April this year, and is a national holiday celebrated throughout Spain. Easter Monday is a popular holiday in Catalonia in which in the window of every bakery you’ll see Mones de Pasqua. Spot these extravagant chocolate eggs in a variety of forms and be sure to buy your favourite before someone else does!

8. Explore Barcelona by bike

What could be better than renting a bike in Barcelona to get some fresh air and bask in the spring sunshine? Exploring the city on two wheels has never been easier with its extensive network of bike lanes. You’ll also find a range of options to suit your preferences, from e-bikes to group tours that stop off at the main attractions.

9. Try the local cuisine

There’s no better time than Barcelona in spring to sample the city’s best fare. As the temperatures begin to rise, you’ll see outdoor terraces become packed with people soaking up the sun and indulging in the city’s best tapas – washed down with a canya or two! What’s more, Barcelona in spring is also known as calçots season! Make sure you try this local chargrilled delicacy, which is a cross between a spring onion and a leek.

10. Discover Sant Jordi

Barcelona in spring brings our favourite holiday: Sant Jordi. This Sunday 23 April, the streets of the city will be brimming with book and flower stalls. One of the most-awaited dates on the Catalan calendar, Sant Jordi is also a time when many writers visit the city, offering book signings and talks.

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8 things to do in El Born – The trendiest neighbourhood in Barcelona

February 23, 2023February 24, 2023Natàlia Gibernau

Which are the best things to do in El Born? El Born is known to be one of the trendiest neighbourhoods of Barcelona. In the old town, there’s plenty to explore as you wander through the narrow cobbled streets, lined with historical buildings and fashionable boutiques. Pop into an art gallery or relax in the park, with our list of the eight best things to do in El Born you won’t miss out on anything.

Things to do in El Born

1. Santa Maria del Mar

One of the most breathtaking buildings in El Born is Santa Maria del Mar. A cathedral built between 1329 and 1383, the Catalan Gothic style is truly a beautiful sight to behold. For those interested in the history, there’s even a fictional series detailing the building of the cathedral and the lives of the people at the time.

things to do in el born - Santa Maria del Mar Barcelona — Things to do in el Born

2. Parc de la Ciutadella

One of the favourite parks for locals to hang out in, Parc de la Ciutadella has much to offer. On a sunny day there are plenty of grassy spots to set up camp and have a picnic or just relax in the sun. As well as that, the park houses the city zoo, the Palau del Parlament de Catalunya, a small lake on which you can go rowing, museums, and a large and beautiful fountain designed by Josep Fontserè. However, it’s important to be careful when hanging out there as many pickpockets operate in the area. Check out our top tips on how to avoid being pickpocketed here.

things to do in el Born - Parc de la Ciutadella

3. Arc de Triomf

Just above Parc de la Ciutadella you will find Barcelona’s very own Arc de Triomf. Built by architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas in 1888, the Arc de Triomf was originally made as the main access gate for the 1888 Barcelona World Fair. Along with being a stunning piece of architecture, the Arc the Triomf is also a great place to take a picture underneath for a memorable shot from your Barcelona trip.

Arc de Triomf - things to see in Barcelona

4. Picasso Museum

No trip to Barcelona is complete without taking in some art by one of the many famous artists who have called Barcelona their home, with one of the most renowned being Pablo Picasso. Housed in five adjoining medieval palaces, the museum has the world’s most extensive collections of the famous 20^th century Spanish artist’s works, along with various temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

5. Born Cultural Centre

Walk up Passatge Mercantil and you can’t help but notice the looming building of Mercat del Born, built in 1873 and showing off the Modernisme catalan style. The inside is just as intriguing as the beautiful outside, as it houses the Born Cultural Centre. Underneath the building an archaeological site was found, revealing the ruins of streets and houses in Barcelona from the 1700’s. Stop by here to view them and learn more about the history of the wonderful city of Barcelona.

Born cultural centre - things to do in El born

6. Fossar de les Moreres

Whilst you are visiting Santa Maria del Mar, make sure to also check out Fossar de les Moreres, which lies adjacent to it. The Fossar de les Moreres is a memorial square dedicated to those defenders of the city who dies during the Siege of Barcelona at the end of the War of the Spanish Succession in 1714. The memorial features a torch with a flame that never goes out, as a touching tribute to those who have fallen.

Fossar de les Moreres - Things to see in El born

7. Museu de la Xocolata

For those with a sweet tooth, there’s nowhere better to visit than the Museu de la Xocolata in el Born. Here you can find out all about the history and the chocolate making process, as well as seeing various well-known sites from around the city, created in chocolate form: a feast for the eyes and the tummy!

8. Casa Llotja de Mar

As the name suggests, you will find Casa Llotja de Mar located towards the sea front. Built during the 14^th century, the beautiful architecture is another representative of the Catalan Gothic style. Having many different purposes over the years, the building began life as the seat for the Consolat de Mar, now serving purpose as the Official Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Shipping of Barcelona.

With these sites in mind, your exploration of one of the most beautiful and historical districts of Barcelona will allow you to discover the city’s hidden secrets.

10 Top Barcelona Travel Tips for First-timers

February 20, 2023February 21, 2023Natàlia Gibernau

The best Barcelona Travel Tips are right here, so look no further! Hand selected by locals, these tips tell you everything you need to know for your first trip to Barcelona.

Find the answers to all the questions you have about visiting this wonderful city for the first time, plus some great Barcelona Travel Tips to ensure your stay is safe, fun and truly authentic.

This list will help you prepare for a fantastic trip to a city everyone should visit once in a lifetime! What are you waiting for?

1. Learn simple Catalana phrases to rock it

The first of our Barcelona Travel Tips is about language. You may not know this, but Catalan is very widely spoken throughout the region of Catalonia and in Barcelona. Although in most places you can get by with English, and Spanish is also widely spoken, we recommend impressing locals with some basic words and phrases. A “Bon dia” or “merci” (not the French kind) will go a long way! It’s also worth remembering that street names are in Catalan (carrer means street).

Check out our article here for 8 simple Catalan phrases you can’t visit Barcelona without.

2. Avoid being pickpocketed with these tips

Next on our list of Barcelona Travel Tips is a piece of advice to keep you safe: the city in general is very safe and most tourists (and locals) don’t experience any problems. However, pickpocketing is rife, above all on public transport and in the city’s busiest areas (La Rambla, El Gòtic area, etc.), so we recommend you always watch your belongings and never leave your bag, phone etc. on tables or in visible spots when you are eating.

Discover our article on more tips to avoid being pickpocketed in Barcelona.

3. Shall I go to a restaurant i Les Rambles?

Yes, Les Rambles is one of Barcelona’s most famous spots and we do recommend you visit it. However, the restaurants and bars near Plaça Catalunya and towards the beach are, quite plainly, tourist traps. One of the most important Barcelona Travel Tips you’ll hear is avoid these spots at all costs.

Head away from the busiest treats to the areas of Born, Eixample, Gràcia or Poble Nou for tasty tapas, international cuisine, light bites and more. On our blog you’ll find our favourite Catalan restaurants, our top vegetarian eateries and Barcelona’s best Japanese restaurants for those looking for something different.

4. Stay close to the centre

The next of our Barcelona Travel Tips is to stay close to the centre on your first trip to the city to make sure you can reach the city’s most popular sights on foot. The old quarter (el Gòtic) will have you within walking distance of La Boqueria Market, Santa Maria Basilica and Les Rambles. Stay in Eixample and discover Gaudí’s masterpieces on foot.

Don’t miss our guide to our best apartments by Barcelona neighbourhood when planning your trip for the most central short- and long-term rentals in privileged locations.

5. Free museums on Sundays in Barcelona

Another of our top Barcelona Travel Tips for first-timers and veterans alike is to hit Barcelona’s free museums on Sundays. Yes, you heard right! Many of the city’s museums open their doors on Sundays (subject to reservation). Discover them here.

6. Lets discover beautiful parks in the city

Barcelona is a thriving city and if you want to escape the hustle and bustle head to one of its beautiful parks to disconnect. Why not take a picnic and make an afternoon of it?

Find our top parks in Barcelona here!

7. How to get around Barcelona?

Getting around Barcelona is easy thanks to its well-connected public transport network. This list wouldn’t be complete without some Barcelona Travel tips on how to get around the city. We recommend buying a T-Casual ticket for 10 trips on the metro or bus or the Hola BCN! card for unlimited travel across the city.

8. Barcelona is synonymous with Gaudí

Barcelona is synonymous with Gaudí and we truly recommend visiting his masterpiece that is the Sagrada Família. Barcelona Travel tips will help you beat the queues and ensure your spot by reserving your ticket online in advance, as they can fly especially during the peak months.

Learn more about this beautiful monument and the architect behind it here.

9. Shall I tip in Barcelona?

To tip or not to tip! That is the question. It can be a complicated business, but the penultimate of our Barcelona Travel Tips is about tipping. Although this form of courtesy isn’t common in Spain, there are some situations when you might like to leave a tip.

Check out our article on how much to tip in Barcelona here.

10. Enjoy an amazing day trip from Barcelona

Last on our list of Barcelona Travel Tips is to make the most of your time in this wonderful part of the world. If after exploring the city you have a day or afternoon to spare, we recommend taking the train or renting a car and discovering some of the hidden treasures Catalonia has to offer in addition to its bustling beach destinations.

You’ll find our favourite day trips from Barcelona here.

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