Study Abroad in Barcelona and use these tips every day

By Valentina Holjevac

Like in any other bigger city, you should be aware at all times of where your belongings are. Barcelona is a pretty safe city overall, but pick-pocketing is a big thing. Whenever you are in a crowded space, make sure your pockets are empty and that your bag is always somewhere where you can feel it and see it. As long as you are aware of your surroundings you will have nothing to worry about if you choose to study abroad in Barcelona.

Those are the pure basics, if you want to know more of where to go and what to do while, keep reading.

Fall in Barcelona is quite mild which means that you can still enjoy the sunny weather only with lower temperatures, which makes it a perfect place to study abroad. Make sure to wear layers of clothing, because once the sun is gone, it gets a bit chilly.

One of the best ways to see Barcelona is with a bike. There are plenty of places where you can rent a bike for the whole day. Then you can cycle along the city’s beaches, make a quick stop, have some freshly squeezed orange juice and some tapas, and just enjoy the view while on the beach.

If you are not a fan of biking, you can always walk. If you take a stroll through Passeig de Gracia you will find some of the finest examples of Gaudi’s modernism and art nouveau buildings such as Casa Batllo, Casa Amatller and Casa Mila. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants along the way for you to take a break and relax.

Tip: Casa Amatller has a chocolate shop inside, and you can ask to taste the chocolate for free!

When speaking about the famous Las Ramblas, the most interesting thing there is the La Boqueria market where you can enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables and find out why it is one of the best markets in the world. Just off the Las Ramblas try kronuts (a hybrid croissant-doughnut) from Chök, the chocolate kitchen, it is just a party for your senses and satisfies your sweet tooth!

Explore the neighbouring El Raval and Barri Gotic districts and discover the magic of the small streets and just wander around. In El Raval stop for some great patatas bravas and cava in a funky restaurant called Gats.   

In El Born, a district across from Barri Gotic, you will find plenty shops with handmade, unique gifts for your loved ones or yourself. A unique gift is more memorable than a magnet, that’s for sure!

Here you will also find one of the coolest tapas bars El Xampanyet, and make sure to try their homemade sparkling wine!

Sunday afternoons are best spent in a museum, because a lot of them offer free entrance during the afternoons. The Picasso Museum in El Born is an exception and they offer free entrance on Thursdays, make sure to reserve your place online!

Other than museums, enjoy many parks in Barcelona, prepare a small picnic, and just lay back and enjoy the sun. Parc de la Ciutadella is one of the biggest parks in Barcelona where many people come to enjoy yoga, juggling, or just strolling around.

Hike to the magical Montjuic mountain and enjoy the views from the top or admire more of Gaudi’s work at Park Guell. If you go before 8 a.m. or after 8 p.m. the central part is free of charge.  

Beneath the mountain of Montjuic, near Plaça d’Espanya is the Magic Fountain of Montjuic, a magical display of colour, light, motion, music and water acrobatics! The entrance is free, and make sure to check the timetables, because it changes from season to season.

The beauty of this city is that each district you visit has something different to offer, it’s like a small city on its own, so don’t be afraid to explore because you never know what lies ahead. Study abroad in Barcelona!

 

Do you want read Amadi´s experience in Barcelona last summer? Check it out!