Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. With its stunning architecture, delicious food, and vibrant culture, it’s easy to see why. There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona, making it the perfect city to live abroad in as a college student. From must-see attractions to tips for budget travelers, we’ll cover everything you need to know to fall in love with this city. So pack your bags and get ready for an amazing adventure in Catalonia’s capital!
TIPS FOR PACKING
There’s so much to see and do in Barcelona, make sure that you pack accordingly! Check out our TikTok about the 5 essentials to pack for going abroad in 2022. What you bring will depend on what you are planning to do but you can never go wrong with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a hat. If you are living abroad during your time in Barcelona, make sure to include breathable work clothes, like cotton dresses or linen pants that will keep you cool in the Spanish heat. Traveling in the summer? Make sure to bring along a bathing suit and sunscreen.
Travel tip: opt for a wallet that protects your credit cards and always keep copies of your travel documents with you (passport, flight info, etc.).
HOW TO GET AROUND THE CITY
Once you’ve arrived in Barcelona, getting around the city is easy as long as you keep a few things in mind. Walking is a great way to get around almost anywhere but the metro offers a fast and cheap alternative to getting around the city. Metro tickets can be bought at any metro station and used for travel on buses and trains throughout the region. The bus system also covers most of the city and works well with metro lines. Rideshares and taxis within the cities are often expensive and traffic makes them slow-moving options.
BUDGET TIPS FOR BARCELONA
No matter your budget, you can save money while still enjoying all that this incredible city has to offer! Take a stroll exploring the street art (find big murals in the Poble Nou neighborhood) or eat outside with friends in the stunning Ciutadella Park. Spend your day at the beach or find somewhere to take in the breathtaking views of mountains and the sea that Barcelona is nestled between.
Ciutadella Park | Source: Marc M.
Barcelona is an incredibly student-friendly city, it is worth your while to get an ISIC card which you can use for discounts on museums, historical attractions, and more. Do your research to get all the deals you can, sometimes you can score deep discounts at restaurants, tour packages, and lodging.
Discover the beauty of the city with free walking tours. There is a Gaudí Free Tour that takes you on a journey to the world of Antoni Gaudí and his architectural masterpieces. Courtesy of Gaudí, Barcelona is home to some of the most unique art nouveau architecture in the whole world.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK
There are few cities as well-known for their food as Barcelona. In any given neighborhood you’ll find bars and cafes serving up delicious tapas, paella, seafood dishes, wines, coffee drinks, pastries…whatever you’re looking for you can find it here! And don’t worry, you can find hamburgers and bagels all over the city too. But if having a traditional Spanish meal is more your speed there are plenty of options for that as well. There are also a ton of sandwich shops to try the delicious bocadillos for quick, cheap eat. Visit some of the city’s great bars and cafes to find unique cocktails, beers, and wines at affordable prices. Explore the many rooftop bars and restaurants that offer beautiful views and Instagram worthy drinks.
Here are a couple of the best places within walking distance or a short metro ride away from Barcelona’s city center:
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Cafe Praktik The decor at this cafe is what makes it worth the visit, with its bright colors and eclectic decorations. And their food definitely matches the standard of ambiance! With great sandwiches, salads, pastries, coffee drinks, tea, beer…you’ll find something you like here for sure.
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La Tagliatella If you’re looking for an Italian meal while in Barcelona, look no further! This chain restaurant offers a wide variety of pasta dishes as well as pizza, salads, desserts, and wine.
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El Nacional This tapas bar is located in a beautiful old building that used to be a bank. And like most tapas bars in Barcelona, it’s quite busy so be prepared to wait (or come early). They have an extensive menu with something for everyone, including vegetarians! And for dessert, try their churros con chocolate.
In Barcelona, there is so much to see and do from touring historical landmarks to enjoying the vibrant nightlife. You are about to embark on a journey that will change your life. This is not just any summer abroad, but an experience of a lifetime. It’s time for you to take the leap.
Make the most of your summer by spending 8-weeks in Barcelona, gaining valuable work experience at a startup! What are you waiting for? Apply to intern abroad in Barcelona today.
