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Barcelona Guide, map and photos. boo.com members recommend hotels, restaurants and attractions in Barcelona

Barcelona guide

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Ever since the Olympic Games were held in Barcelona in 1992, it has enjoyed a new lease of life. Since those games people have really begun to notice the Catalonian capital. The mind-boggling thing is how it wasn't so popular beforehand? Thanks to one Antoni Gaudi, it is where you will find some of the world's most fascinating architecture. It is also where you will find Las Ramblas, one of the world's most vibrant strips. Oh, and then there's the nightlife, the shopping, the restaurants, the people... the list goes on.

Latest reviews of Barcelona

If you can stay somewhere else... free internet but only 1 works, cockroaches, hidden fees for EVERYTHING and you have to pay separate for sheets and blanket so we slept under sheets, maids stole our shampoo and body sprays and lock out is after 2 even though it sais 24 hour reception...loophole...more If you can stay somewhere else... free internet but only 1 works, cockroaches, hidden fees for EVERYTHING and you have to pay separate for sheets and blanket so we slept under sheets, maids stole our shampoo and body sprays and lock out is after 2 even though it sais 24 hour reception...loophole cause they are \"always at reception\" but you cant get in after 2...dont goclose

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by fox-racing-696 – posted on May 19, 2008

fox-racing-696, from Canada, has 27 reviews 27

THIS HOSTEL IS NOTHING LIKE THE PICTURES! WE WERE WOKEN EARLY IN THE MORNING AND TOLD WE WERE BEING MOVED TO ANOTHER HOTEL ONE HOUR OUT OF TOWN AND FOUND OUT IT WAS GOING TO BE A RUN DOWN HOTEL WITH NO WATER OR LIGHTING!!! THE ONLY REASON WE WERE NOT MOVED WAS BECAUSE ANOTHER COUPLE LEFT DUE TO...more THIS HOSTEL IS NOTHING LIKE THE PICTURES! WE WERE WOKEN EARLY IN THE MORNING AND TOLD WE WERE BEING MOVED TO ANOTHER HOTEL ONE HOUR OUT OF TOWN AND FOUND OUT IT WAS GOING TO BE A RUN DOWN HOTEL WITH NO WATER OR LIGHTING!!! THE ONLY REASON WE WERE NOT MOVED WAS BECAUSE ANOTHER COUPLE LEFT DUE TO THE POOR QUALITY OF THE HOTEL! PLEASE DO NTO BOOK HERE WE LOST AN ENTIRE DAY WAITING AROUND PACKED READY TO BE MOVED! I CONFIRMED ALL OF OUR DETAILS SEVERAL TIMES DIRECTLY WITH THE OWNER AND WHEN I SHOWED HIM THE PRINTED OUT EMAILS HE JUST APPOLOGISED AND SAID WE STILL HAD TO MOVE. THERE WERE NO WINDOWS THE ROOM WAS VERY SMALL AND THE TV FUZZY. NO WIFI! NO BREAKFAST! AND NO RECEPTION SO IF YOUR PHONE DOES NOT WORK IN SPAIN THEN YOU CANT CALL THE OWNER TO COME AND CHECK YOU IN!!! DO NOT BOOK!!!close

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by rebeccamunro4393 – posted on Apr 25, 2008

rebeccamunro4393, from Australia, has 2 reviews 2

I would really suggest for people to not just go to Barcelona, but also tour around. I was also in Madrid and Toledo and they offer much more that Barca alone. Plus, Barcelona is not Spain: it\'s too full of tourists, it\'s hard to find a real Paella (typical food for Spain) or a real...more I would really suggest for people to not just go to Barcelona, but also tour around. I was also in Madrid and Toledo and they offer much more that Barca alone. Plus, Barcelona is not Spain: it\'s too full of tourists, it\'s hard to find a real Paella (typical food for Spain) or a real Flamenco show.close

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by victorfachev6594 – posted on Apr 19, 2008

victorfachev6594, from Bulgaria, has 3 reviews 3

I was 4 days in Barcelona for the second time now, and it is still not enough to experience everything. All the parks, squares, museums, clubs, pubs, bars, streets, beaches - everything has its own charm and is worth seeing it. Lots of foreigners in the city, lots of young people to meet. This is...more I was 4 days in Barcelona for the second time now, and it is still not enough to experience everything. All the parks, squares, museums, clubs, pubs, bars, streets, beaches - everything has its own charm and is worth seeing it. Lots of foreigners in the city, lots of young people to meet. This is skateboarding capital of Europe :) close

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by scapendara – posted on Apr 19, 2008

scapendara, from Croatia, has 6 reviews 6

Barcelona is full of culture and there is always something going on. The famous architecture of Antoni Gaudi is astounding and something I believe everyone should see before they die, especially La Sagrada Familia! Be sure to give yourself enough time to take it all in. Barcelona is a city you...more Barcelona is full of culture and there is always something going on. The famous architecture of Antoni Gaudi is astounding and something I believe everyone should see before they die, especially La Sagrada Familia! Be sure to give yourself enough time to take it all in. Barcelona is a city you can keep on visiting and never have the same experience!close

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by jax083 – posted on Apr 15, 2008

jax083, from USA, has 2 reviews 2

Running down the list. Some things like souvenirs and lodging seemed overpriced compared to other areas of Europe. People are really eager to share the Catalan culture... including many parties along the beach. Near Placa Catalanya, there is an amazing street for shopping. However, outside of...more Running down the list. Some things like souvenirs and lodging seemed overpriced compared to other areas of Europe. People are really eager to share the Catalan culture... including many parties along the beach. Near Placa Catalanya, there is an amazing street for shopping. However, outside of Gaudi\'s buildings, parks, and churches, there aren\'t very many obvious sites to see. The metro is also a bit tricky since the lines have long distances between the stops and where you want to go. The food is AMAZING, but try the places filled with locals, not tourists. And who doesn\'t love a nice week full of sunshine. The weather is amazing.close

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by hazle0131570 – posted on Mar 29, 2008

hazle0131570, from USA, has 14 reviews 14

Depart of the 1000 clubs and discotheques you have to see the church: sacrada famila, the olympic park, the magic fountain, and for shure the beach! The best clubs in barcelona were arena vip and space;-) Take care there are children trying to trick you by asking for a signiture for charity...more Depart of the 1000 clubs and discotheques you have to see the church: sacrada famila, the olympic park, the magic fountain, and for shure the beach! The best clubs in barcelona were arena vip and space;-) Take care there are children trying to trick you by asking for a signiture for charity and afterwards for money which never ends in charity!!!!!!Never sign anythingclose

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by Vanilla-boy – posted on Mar 17, 2008

Vanilla-boy, from Germany, has 16 reviews 16

For a Filipino, Barcelona is a great destination because there is a strong and unified Filipino community here who exuded the same warmth, hospitality, cheerfulness and spirituality that we have back in the Philippines. But apart from it, the city has a lot to offer -- from its beachfront to the...more For a Filipino, Barcelona is a great destination because there is a strong and unified Filipino community here who exuded the same warmth, hospitality, cheerfulness and spirituality that we have back in the Philippines. But apart from it, the city has a lot to offer -- from its beachfront to the mountains, to city life, culture and places of worship. Unfortunately, it didn't feel safe as it was two years ago when I had been in this city for the first time. I got my body bag containing my passport, money and valuable stolen when I carelessly put it down for two seconds to tie the strings of my sneakers. This took place in Arc de Triomphe. It was a very unpleasant experience. The only relief I had was hearing similar stories told by fellow Filipinos and even two other room mates in Gothic Point hostel where I stayed for three nights. Imagine three persons in the same dorm in a hostel getting robbed or snatched of their belongings in one day in three separate locations/instances? Getting a police report was a relief, but reporting the incident may not even be of any help. I should say that the surveillance cameras are ineffective or useless too, except probably for a murder case or act of terrorism. The city government doesn't seem to have a sensible, workable plan to protect its tourists from the goons that lurk around, save warnings plastered all over the city. I was told that most of the thieves are undocumented Morocs and Latin Americans. If caught, they are detained for a few hours. They are then released, free to harm anyone that come their way again because they cannot be deported. I'm not sure if it's true that the Spanish government wouldn't know where to send them off. How pathetic. This heavily taints the good things to experience in this beautiful city.close

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by rutep – posted on Mar 17, 2008

rutep, from Philippines, has 10 reviews 10

This is quite a beautiful city with lots of great architectural buildings and places to visit. Unfortunately the days I was there, the weather didn\'t help much since it was raining and cold but still, quite an enjoyable visit. It\'s quite easy to move around with the subway and people...more This is quite a beautiful city with lots of great architectural buildings and places to visit. Unfortunately the days I was there, the weather didn\'t help much since it was raining and cold but still, quite an enjoyable visit. It\'s quite easy to move around with the subway and people are very nice. close

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by lauri124 – posted on Feb 18, 2008

lauri124, from Mexico, has 10 reviews 10

Barcelona is superb for a short stay if you want to conquer everything. Intending not to sleep for a weekend I surprised my bro with a trip to Barcelona knowing that he was a huge fan of Gaudi and partial to the odd drink! Barcelona was perfect for this, and when we got back to England sleep was...more Barcelona is superb for a short stay if you want to conquer everything. Intending not to sleep for a weekend I surprised my bro with a trip to Barcelona knowing that he was a huge fan of Gaudi and partial to the odd drink! Barcelona was perfect for this, and when we got back to England sleep was on the agenda just as much as sharing all the details of a wonderful trip.close

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by gavster31 – posted on Feb 8, 2008

gavster31, from England, has 4 reviews 4

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Top Rated Barcelona Places to Stay

  1. Duquesa de Cardona100%

    Located in the heart of Barcelona, close to the Rambles, in a historic building of the mid 19th century, home of nobility and refuge of kings, the hotel has been remodelled to adapt the advanced technology to the flavour, tradition and hospitality which make it an example of the personalised service every customer deserves. In the centre of culture and history of a cosmopolitan city, and open to the light and...

  2. Husa Barcelona93%

    Great friendly staff, and i shall book this hotel on my next vist to barcelona. thanks to all

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    by Bryank – posted on Jan 2006

    Bryank, from Scotland, has 1 reviews 1
  3. Hotel Continental Barcelona90%

    Great Location just off La Rambla - good clean rooms and very helpful staff! The snack buffet was fantastic. Would definitely stay here again.

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    by gordonkl – posted on Jul 2008

    gordonkl, from Australia, has 1 reviews 1

    Beautiful stay in this hotel: excellent location, nice room, helpful staff and very useful the continental breakfast all the day. If I come back to barcelona, I'll certainly stay again at Hotel Continental Barcelona.

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    by cikkina9828 – posted on Mar 2008

    cikkina9828, from Italy, has 1 reviews 1
  4. Husa Oriente88%

    Very good Hotel. Excellent Location.

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    by mball7102 – posted on Jun 2008

    mball7102, from Brazil, has 12 reviews 12

    Great hotel and ideally located. Would not hesitate to visit again.

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    by markdixon7851 – posted on Apr 2008

    markdixon7851, from England, has 1 reviews 1

Top Rated Barcelona Restaurants

  1. Juicy Jones100%

    • What?

        Vegan Restaurant
    • Where?

        Near Liceu Metro Station
    • Anything Else?

        There are two floors to the restaurant, on the ground floor there is a bar serving a wide range of different juices and the basement has psychedelic painting on the walls. The staff are young, hippy and down-to-earth.

    Juicy Jones could be described as a psychedelic eatery or an authentic hippie cafe with a great buzz! It caters for both vegetarians and vegans and the menu comprises salads, soups, indian dishes, beers etc. It is a bright and cheeful place and the service is impeccable. Various tapa dishes are available and they make delicous homemade cookies. They also have...

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    by YvonneK – posted on May 2007

    YvonneK, from Ireland, has 14 reviews 14
  2. Set Portes100%

    • What?

        Catalana Cuisine
    • Where?

        10 mins walk from Barceloneta Metro Station
    • Anything Else?

        It was founded in 1836 and has not forgotten its past. The restaurant is a landmark of Barcelona and serves true Catalan cuisine. There is live music every night and it is advisable to book before hand.

    I heard lots of people talking about this restaurant and they all said it was a good place to go for paella. We couldn't make a reservation for the Saturday night as they were full so we were told to just turn up. When we did there was a queue of people outside. Always a good sign! The queue moved very quickly and we were brought to our table. The menu is...

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    by Erica – posted on Nov 2007

    Erica, from Ireland, has 71 reviews 71
  3. Maoz Vegetarian Snack100%

    • What?

        Vegetarian restaurant
    • Where?

        Near Liceu Metro Station
    • Anything Else?

        A chain of vegetarian restaurants, with locations all over the world. They are dedicated to providing new and nutritious vegetarian dishes, using the freshest ingredients. The service is fast and you can just sit there and watch the world go by.

    Friendly self-service cafe with delicious pitta bread and snacks for Vegetarians with a variety of fillings to choose from including falafel, hummus, chickpeas, lentil salads, jalapenos etc. The exceptionally good food is healthy and wholesome and will appeal to most vegetarians. Maos is a local restaurant chain but it is not a fast food joint - moreso a place...

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    by YvonneK – posted on May 2007

    YvonneK, from Ireland, has 14 reviews 14
  4. Can Mojo100%

    A beautiful seafood restaurant, absolutely delicious – every plate was returned to the kitchen perfectly cleaned! A tad pricier than the average meal in Barcelona and probably a bit off the beaten path for most travellers, this is a really wonderful restaurant which is hugely popular with locals. Booking is essential if dining at the weekend.

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    by TravelBugged – posted on Feb 2008

    TravelBugged, from Ireland, has 49 reviews 49
  5. La Crema Canela100%

    • What?

        Coobination between Mediterranean and oriental Cuisine
    • Where?

        Near Liceu Metro Station
    • Anything Else?

        A mid range restaurant, with friendly English speaking staff. The food is fresh and the atmosphere relaxed. Their specialty is the desserts, which are popular among all that visit.

    Off Las Ramblas, between La Placa Real and the Irish pub, a wonderful mid priced restaurant with an eclectic menu and excellent food. Dinner only. Booking advised.

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    by solomonking – posted on Aug 2007

    solomonking, from Ireland, has 5 reviews 5

Top Rated Barcelona Attractions

  1. Casa Batllo100%

    • What?

        Famous Gaudi Building
    • Where?

        Near Passeig De Gracia Metro Station
    • Anything Else?

        One of Antoni Gaudi's masterpieces, it is more than a buiding; it is a legend in the universal art, architecture and design of all epochs. It is possible to take a guide of the interior and experience this fine building for yourself.

    Casa Batllo is another one of Antoni Gaudi's unique masterpieces. It was Gaudi's dwelling place for many years and the attention to the tiniest detail is visible in every corner.If you are fond of architecture, this house is an absolute must with its mysterious chimneys, superb vaults, interesting light features and beautiful windows. These are only some of...

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    by YvonneK – posted on May 2007

    YvonneK, from Ireland, has 14 reviews 14
  2. La Sagrada Familia83%

    • What?

        Temple and Museum
    • Where?

        Beside the Sagrada Familia Metro Station
    • Anything Else?

        One of the icons of Barcelona, the temple was designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi. Construction began on the temple in 1882 and is not due to finish until 2026, it was originally due to take 700 years.

    Scam, do not pay 8€ to enter. All you will see is scaffolding, the best views of this fantastic builing are from the park outside, very disappointing inside due to building works

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    by pdc – posted on Aug 2007

    pdc, from Ireland, has 1 reviews 1
  3. Museu Picasso80%

    • What?

        Museum
    • Where?

        A 10 mins walk from Jaume I Metro Station
    • Anything Else?

        This museum is dedicated to the artist Pablo Picasso and is integral to understanding his formative years. The permanent collection consists of more than 3,500 works. Entry is free on the first Sunday of each month.

    An important collection of Picasso’s work, the Museu Picasso houses a variety of the artist’s produce from across a range of his different eras, including early sketches, ceramics and a detailed study of his wonderful Las Meninas project.

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    by TravelBugged – posted on Jan 2008

    TravelBugged, from Ireland, has 49 reviews 49
  4. Barcelona Zoo80%

    • What?

        Zoo
    • Where?

        Located beside the Ciutadella-Villa Olimpica Station
    • Anything Else?

        The zoo is located in gardens that are over 100 years old and contains a collection of some 7,500 individual animals belonging to 400 species from around the world.

    Part of the Parc de la Ciutadella (City Park) complex, the zoo houses over 7,000 animals from over 500 different species. You can see dolphin shows and other aquatic mammals performing in the marine enclosure at 11.30am, 1.30pm and 4pm. One of the star attractions is Copito de Nieve (Snowflake), the only albino gorilla in captivity. There are tropical birds,...

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    by Melanie2006 – posted on Feb 2006

    Melanie2006, from Australia, has 21 reviews 21
  5. Art National Museum60%

    • What?

        Art Museum
    • Where?

        Centrally located in the Parc de Montjuïc
    • Anything Else?

        A collection of Catalan Art, which was created in 1990 when the Museu d'Art de Catalunya and the Museu d'Art Modern were combined to created it. It is free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

    If you like modern art this is the place to visit. Not really much more to say than that!

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    by Sonia – posted on Dec 2003

    Sonia, from Spain, has 74 reviews 74

Top Rated Barcelona Bars

  1. ànima3100%

    Nice wine bar in the Barrio Gótico of Barcelona with over 200 different Spanish wines. 15 of them can be tasted by glass. The place has a long lounge and a bar. There are also tapas available.

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    by nodomain – posted on Feb 2008

    nodomain, from Switzerland, has 1 reviews 1
  2. manchester bar100%

    great place to hang out listening to good music.

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    by abruna – posted on Feb 2008

    abruna, from Brazil, has 28 reviews 28
  3. La Fianna Barcelona100%

    • What?

        Cocktail Bar and Restaurant
    • Where?

        10 mins walk from Jaume I Metro Station
    • Anything Else?

        This is a seductive and funky bar that serves international cuisine drawn from 8 different countries. There is an extensive cocktail menu from mojito's to bellini's and there is a selection of beds and velvety sofas provided for the perfect ambience

    Great Atmosphere.. went there with about 15 friends on a weekend away and had a blast. Good sized drinks, lovely women and friendly all round.

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    by callingpat – posted on Jan 2008

    callingpat, from Ireland, has 2 reviews 2
  4. Guru100%

    • What?

        Cocktail bar/lounge
    • Where?

        Gothic quarter
    • Anything Else?

        While the outside of this building isn't much to look at, the interior is pretty impressive. There is a large buddha in the window, and a multitude of art on the walls. Open til 3am. Live DJ plays house music.

    If you’re looking to chill in the middle of the day then go to Guru but be careful, you may not want to leave! A bar/café during the day which slowly morphs into a club and stays open until about 3am if my memory serves me. You could easily go in for lunch, get comfortable and only find yourself leaving in the tiny ours of the next morning. Really relaxing...

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    by MrWhite – posted on Sep 2006

    MrWhite, from Ireland, has 32 reviews 32
  5. Bosc de les Fades100%

    • What?

        Unique Bar
    • Where?

        Near Drassanes Metro Station
    • Anything Else?

        A bar designed to be as strange as possible, there is a room with miniature tables, one that is set up like a refurbished barn and when you walk in to the main bar you are surrounded by realistic trees from a Sleepy Hollow movie.

    Bosc de les Fades is one of the most unusual bars I've ever been in. It's actually a bit like 'Middle Earth' in there. Anybody who's ever seen Lord of the Rings will know what I'm on about. There's a good atmosphere there also.

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    by colm – posted on Feb 2005

    colm, from Ireland, has 223 reviews 223

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