The Barcelona Expert

Hi Reader, September 11th is the National Day of Catalonia, and if you're in Barcelona (or anywhere in Catalonia) tomorrow, expect to see lots of Catalan flags flying! Held every year on 11 September, it is a day of remembrance, pride and political expression with streets filled with music, flags and demonstrations. There are also cultural events, castellers (human towers) performances and free entry to some Catalan museums and institutions, as well as a protest march beginning at 17.14 in...

Hi Reader, There are some great travel-related offers on at the moment, so I wanted to give you a heads up to make sure you don't miss out on any! If they're not relevant for you, forward them on to someone who might need them - you never know! 5% DISCOUNT ON GETYOURGUIDE APP Save 5% on your first booking through the GetYourGuide app through this link using the code WHATTODOINBARCELONA5 The code is valid on any tour or experience on GetYourGuide, if it is your first booking on the...

Hi thereReader, Are you studying abroad this year? Or are you just thinking about giving it a go? Or is someone you know heading off to do that? Forward them this email! Whether you’re packing your bags for a semester overseas or just starting to dream about it, the Wander Woman Summit: Study Abroad Edition is your space to get ready for the adventure of a lifetime - AND IT'S TOTALLY FREE! I first came to Barcelona as an ERASMUS student for a year studying as part of my university degree, so...

Hi Reader, We're having another hot week in Barcelona, and one of the best things to do is to enjoy the long evenings and summer nights when the weather is cooler. Luckily, Barcelona has lots of fun things to do at night all through the year - but especially in the summer! Here are some of my favourites for you to add to your itinerary! ➡️Read the full list of things to do in Barcelona at night Top 5 Things to Do in Barcelona at Night Watch the Sunset With Barcelona being on the east coast of...

Hi Reader! If you're coming to Barcelona in August you need to be ready for it to be hot and busy. Here are some tips to help you enjoy Barcelona this month, as well as checking out local festivals and keeping cool. ➡️Read my full guide to visiting Barcelona in August here. Barcelona August Highlights Hit the Beach It's hot and sunny (most of the time!) so it's a great time to hit the beach. However, the beaches closest to the city get very busy, so head further up the coast for more local...

Hi Reader, Are you wondering if you should hire a car in Barcelona? Generally, if you’re visiting Barcelona for a short trip and will be just exploring the city, you probably don’t need to rent a car in Barcelona, as public transport and taxis can take you wherever you need to go. However, if you have specific needs and prefer your own space, or want to travel outside of the city, then hiring a car in Barcelona can be a great way to have more freedom and flexibility. Here are some things to...

Hi there Reader, Summer is in full swing here in Barcelona - after a few days of relative cool, the 30°C (86°F) temperatures are back! With long days of sunshine, high humidity and crowded streets, it’s important to be prepared so you can enjoy your trip without suffering in the heat. Whether you’re sightseeing, relaxing at the beach or wandering around the Gothic Quarter, these essential Barcelona summer travel tips will help you stay cool, hydrated and happy during your visit. Book...

Hi Reader, I just want to comment about the anti-tourism protests you’ve probably seen in the media. If you haven't seen it, on Sunday, there was an anti-tourism protest here in Barcelona, which hit headlines around the world as protesters fired water pistols and set of smoke bombs. I didn’t go to the protest but have read several accounts of what happened. These articles give more details about the protest on Sunday:...

Hi Reader The weather in Barcelona is heating up as we're at the start of the summer season. If you're visiting Barcelona this month, check out what's coming up in June! Primavera Sound Date: 4-8th June 2025 Primavera Sound is one of Europe’s most renowned music festivals, and kicks off tomorrow in Parc del Forum. Tickets sold out in record time this year, just weeks after they went on sale, thanks to headline acts Charlie CXC, Sabrina Carpenter and Chapell Roan. Be aware that the yellow...

Hi Reader! Accommodation prices in Barcelona are some of the most expensive in Spain, especially as we come into the summer season. If you're hoping to visit Barcelona on a budget but are struggling to find good value hotels, I might have the perfect answer for you! Let's be clear, though, there is no magic wand to get something for nothing - but see if any of these might help you to have a fantastic trip to Barcelona (or anywhere else in the world) without breaking the bank! Volunteering in...