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14 Days & 7 Cities

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A woman in a hat and casual clothing stands with arms outstretched, facing a panoramic view of a cityscape with red-roofed buildings and a river in the background under a blue sky.A woman in a hat and casual clothing stands with arms outstretched, facing a panoramic view of a cityscape with red-roofed buildings and a river in the background under a blue sky.

Hey there! Thinking about exploring Spain and Portugal? I’ve got you covered! Having lived in Spain and am currently calling Lisbon home, I’ve traveled extensively in both countries and I’m excited to share my experiences with you.

I’ve put together a 14-day itinerary that takes you through the best of Spain and Portugal. From where to stay, what to do, and how to get around, this guide has everything you need.

We’ll explore popular destinations and talk about different modes of transportation to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re planning a shorter trip or want to spend more time, this itinerary is flexible, and I’ll show you how to customize it to fit your schedule.

Just a heads up – Spain and Portugal are super popular, so booking everything in advance is a must. Grab your plane tickets, book your hotels, and secure your tours and activities before you go. This also applies to bus and train tickets. Planning ahead ensures you get the best deals and can travel worry-free.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started on your adventure!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

Here are all the stops on this 14-day Spain and Portugal itinerary:

(I recommend doing it by train, but you can also do it by car; more on this later)

Map of Spain and Portugal with a 14-day itinerary marked. Stops include Barcelona (Days 1-2), Madrid (Days 3-4), Seville (Days 5-6), Algarve Coast (Days 7-8), Lisbon (Days 9-10), Sintra (Day 12), Porto (Days 13-14).Map of Spain and Portugal with a 14-day itinerary marked. Stops include Barcelona (Days 1-2), Madrid (Days 3-4), Seville (Days 5-6), Algarve Coast (Days 7-8), Lisbon (Days 9-10), Sintra (Day 12), Porto (Days 13-14).
  • Day 1-2: Barcelona
  • Day 3: Leave Barcelona + explore Madrid
  • Day 4: Madrid
  • Day 5: Leave Madrid + arrive to Seville
  • Day 6: Seville
  • Day 7: Leave Seville + arrive to Faro
  • Day 8: Algarve Coast
  • Day 9: Leave Algarve + explore Lisbon
  • Day 10-11: Lisbon
  • Day 12: Day trip to Sintra
  • Day 13: Leave Lisbon + arrive to Porto
  • Day 14: Porto

Day 1-2: Barcelona

The writer of the post is standing in front of a fountain in barcelona.The writer of the post is standing in front of a fountain in barcelona.

Barcelona is the most popular city in Spain, and I absolutely love its unique architecture and vibe! You can find anything and everything here – from breathtaking attractions and some amazing beaches to a delicious food scene and vibrant nightlife. In short, Barcelona should definitely be in your itinerary and you should take some time to explore the city.

Regardless of where you’re coming from, you’ll probably fly into Barcelona (I use Skyscanner to compare flights).

Spend 2 full days in Barcelona to explore the city and catch the train to Madrid on the 3rd day. Since we want to see 2 countries in such a short time, we will have to make the most of each city!

Below, I highlight all the best things to do in Barcelona, but all of these attractions are super popular and usually have long lines. Worry not, I’ve thought of this, too! Check out our dedicated articles on the best ways to get tickets for Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and Park Guell.

Barcelona has an excellent public transport network that includes a metro, trams, and buses. I recommend getting the 2 day Hola Barcelona Travel Card, which is valid for 48 hours and gives you unlimited access to all public transport.

PRO TIP: The 2-day travel card costs €17.5, but you get a 10% discount if you buy it online (you can use ALL public transportation options, including the metro from/to the airport – avoiding costly airport transfers!)

Barcelona has SO much to offer, but I handpicked the very best attractions and experiences for your 2-day stay (and possible extras if you decide on staying more):

The writer of the post in a hat and off-shoulder dress stands before a pond with a view of the Sagrada Familia in the background, partially obscured by trees.The writer of the post in a hat and off-shoulder dress stands before a pond with a view of the Sagrada Familia in the background, partially obscured by trees.

Day 1 in Barcelona

  • Join a hop-on, hop-off bus tour to see all the main sights
  • Visit the Basílica de la Sagrada Família (map)
  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Park Güell (map)
  • Attend a flamenco show and enjoy dinner at Tablao de Carmen

Day 2 in Barcelona

  • Snap a photo of La Pedrera – Casa Milà (map)
  • Pay a visit to Casa Batlló (map)
  • Check out Plaça de Catalunya (map)
  • Enjoy a walk down La Rambla (map)
  • Stop by the Cathedral of Barcelona (map)
  • Stroll around the amazing market, Mercat de la Boqueria (map)
  • Admire the collection at the Picasso Museum Barcelona (map)
  • Relax at Barceloneta Beach (map)

Optional extras

If you are staying for one more day, this is what I would do:

  • Embark on an immersive tour of the FC Barcelona Museum
  • Take a funicular to Mount Tibidabo (map)
  • Stroll Arc de Triomf & Parc de la Ciutadella (map)
  • Admire the Plaça d’Espanya (map)
  • Currently Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is not working, but when it does, be sure to check out the show (map)

(Alternatively, you can spend Day 3 taking a day tour to beautiful Montserrat, I talk about how to get there and what to see here).

Where to stay in Barcelona

An aerial view of the city of barcelona.An aerial view of the city of barcelona.

Here are some great accommodation options in each price category:

  • Hotel El Palace Barcelona ($$$) – situated near Barcelona’s top tourist attractions and main shopping district, this 5-star hotel offers an outdoor pool, limousine service, and Mayan-style spa.
  • NH Barcelona Entenza ($$) – a hotel offering bright and modern rooms with wooden floors and a fully equipped bathroom. Guests can choose to have their breakfast at the buffet or ask for it to be delivered to their room.
  • Onefam Les Corts ($) – this social hostel provides beds in mixed and female dormitories, access to shared bathrooms, and private lockers. The hostel is geared towards young people and only accepts guests younger than 45.

Day 3: Leave Barcelona and explore Madrid

The majestic Royal Palace of Madrid on a cloudy day, with tourists dotting the expansive plaza in front of the palace's classical architecture.The majestic Royal Palace of Madrid on a cloudy day, with tourists dotting the expansive plaza in front of the palace's classical architecture.

Next up on the Spain itinerary, Madrid – the capital and largest city. The city has a rich cultural and art scene, and the food is fantastic, too! Shopping is also a big thing in Madrid, so leave some room in your luggage.

I would definitely take the train – it’s the fastest way to make the trip and also pretty affordable. One of the MissTourist team members did exactly this and said the speed trains are super comfy, so you can relax and enjoy the view.

If you want to see more of Madrid, leave Barcelona in the morning. That way, you can still visit some museums and attractions on day 3 of the itinerary. But if you’d like to see more of Barcelona, leave in the evening, sleep in your Madrid hotel, and start exploring the city on day 4.

I recommend spending 2 nights in the Spanish captial (one full day and 2 half days) – you will be able to see the main sights (as usual, if you have more time, I have left optional recommendations for you too!).

One of the top attractions in the city is the Prado Museum and a must-visit when in Madrid! However, ticket lines can be long, so before heading there, here is our guide on getting Prado Museum tickets.

Things to do in Madrid on Day 3 (if you arrive at mid-day)

  • Walk around Plaza Mayor (map) and snap some photos
  • Have some churros at Chocolatería San Ginés (map)
  • Grab a burrito from Tierra Burrito Bar (map)
  • Watch the sunset near Templo de Debod (map)
  • Stroll down Gran Via in the evening/ night (map)

Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!

Day 4: Madrid

A grand stone archway adorned with sculptures and carvings, standing prominently against a clear blue sky in a landscaped areaA grand stone archway adorned with sculptures and carvings, standing prominently against a clear blue sky in a landscaped area

Wake up early, grab some breakfast, and start exploring Madrid!

Day 4 in Madrid

  • Explore the collection at the Prado Museum
  • Enjoy the outdoors in El Retiro Park (map)
  • Check out Palacio de Cristal (inside El Retiro Park)
  • Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid (map)
  • Admire the architecture of Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena (map)
  • Join a wine and tapas walking tour

Optional extras

Want to spend an extra day in Madrid? Here are my suggestions:

Where to stay in Madrid

High-angle view of Puerta del Sol, a busy central square in Madrid, with buildings, pedestrians, and the famous Tio Pepe signHigh-angle view of Puerta del Sol, a busy central square in Madrid, with buildings, pedestrians, and the famous Tio Pepe sign

All accommodations listed below are centrally located and provide easy access to public transport. They’re also great value for money in their price categories.

  • UMusic Hotel Madrid ($$$) – a luxurious hotel in the heart of Madrid with a seasonal outdoor pool, concierge service, a restaurant, and a terrace. You can pick from several breakfast options and relax in the on-site bar.
  • Hotel Moderno Puerta del Sol ($$): This 3-star hotel is in a central location. It has air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a comfortable lounge, and a delicious breakfast buffet.
  • Way Hostel Madrid ($) – this eclectic hostel serves complimentary coffee and churros every morning, and everyone is invited to use the shared kitchen. You can book a room with a private bathroom or reserve a bed in one of the shared dormitories.

Day 5: Leave Madrid and arrive in Seville

Panoramic view of Plaza de España in Seville with its semi-circular brick building, renaissance towers, and bridges reflecting over the calm canal, under a cloudy sky.Panoramic view of Plaza de España in Seville with its semi-circular brick building, renaissance towers, and bridges reflecting over the calm canal, under a cloudy sky.

The final stop on the Spain itinerary is Seville, the largest city in the autonomous community of Andalusia. The city boasts beautiful architecture and has a vibrant flamenco scene, as well as amazing food (think tapas) and friendly people.

Seville is a gorgeous city with a lot to offer! Spend 1 night in Seville (and 1,5-2 days depending on when you plan to arrive from Madrid and leave for Algarve, our next stop).

If you have more than 2 weeks for the trip, you should definitely stay in Seville for longer, it is wonderful! Here are my tips on what to do in the city

Also, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you probably know that Seville was one of the filming locations for the show. There are quite a few themed tours, so we made our own shortlist here.

If you have extra energy and want to explore Seville on day 5, I’d recommend exploring the city on foot. If you have the energy, head to Plaza de España (map) and admire the architecture.

But if you’d rather catch up on your sleep and start day 6 running, you can always do that then (which is why it’s included on the day 6 itinerary).

Day 6: Seville

Visitor standing in the Hall of Ambassadors at the Real Alcázar of Seville, marveling at the stunning golden dome and intricate Islamic geometric patterns, a testament to the architectural grandeur of Andalusian heritageVisitor standing in the Hall of Ambassadors at the Real Alcázar of Seville, marveling at the stunning golden dome and intricate Islamic geometric patterns, a testament to the architectural grandeur of Andalusian heritage

I hope you still have some energy because there are quite a few things to explore in Seville:

  • Spend a couple of hours at the Royal Alcázar of Seville (map)
  • Eat all the tapas!
  • Walk around Plaza de España
  • Go up to the roof of the Setas de Sevilla (map) and enjoy the views
  • See the Catedral de Sevilla (map) and La Giralda Tower (map)
  • Attend a live flamenco dancing show at Teatro Flamenco Sevilla
  • Optional: embark on a yacht tour of the Guadalquivir River

Where to stay in Seville

A picturesque view of a quaint alley in the Santa Cruz district, lined with colorful buildings, outdoor cafes, and cobblestone streetsA picturesque view of a quaint alley in the Santa Cruz district, lined with colorful buildings, outdoor cafes, and cobblestone streets

Now, here are the best accommodations for your 1-night stay in Seville, all in a great location and each an excellent choice in its price category.

  • Hotel Lobby ($$$) – set in Seville’s historic center, this former palace has been refurbished into a luxury hotel with designer-decorated rooms, an outdoor pool, and an amazing on-site restaurant.
  • Hotel Boutique Casa de Colón ($$) – located in a former colonial building, this boutique hotel has uniquely decorated rooms and offers concierge services, luggage storage, and a tour desk.
  • New Samay Hostel ($) – this hostel is set within a restored townhouse and offers private rooms with dedicated bathrooms, as well as dormitories that provide access to shared bathroom facilities.

Day 7: Leave Seville and arrive on the Algarve coast

The writer of the post sitting on a rock offering panoramic view of the Algarve surroundingsThe writer of the post sitting on a rock offering panoramic view of the Algarve surroundings

There has been a lot of exploring cities lately so we are heading to the South of Portugal, to the beautiful Algarve coast, to relax a little bit! I’d recommend leaving Seville before 12 to get a little more time on the coast (and recover from all the sightseeing in Spain!). But you can also spend longer in Seville and arrive in Portugal late afternoon.

Now, the biggest city in the Algarve is Faro, but you can choose any town on the coast to relax. We actually have a comprehensive article on where to stay in Algarve, depending on your preferences. My personal favorite is Lagos, thanks to its stunning beaches. But each town is 30 min to an hour away from each other, so no worries, everything is very close!

Transportation: there are no direct trains from Seville, so if you are not driving, you will need to take a bus. Once you’re on the Algarve Coast, you’ll be able to use the train to get around to all the major towns and cities.

Once in Portugal, I actually recommend renting a car! Trains are a great way to get around Spain, but they are not as amazing in Portugal. Plus with a car, you will get the flexibility to drive along the coast and it is very very pretty!

Spend 1 night in the Algarve – 1 full day, and if you want more time to relax, you can spend another day here too. Plus, the distance between Seville and Algarve is relatively short, so if you leave Seville in the morning you’ll have almost an entire extra day on the Portuguese coast.

Day 8: Algarve Coast

Bustling beach scene in Algarve with clear turquoise waters, flanked by rugged cliffs and white Mediterranean-style buildings under a bright blue sky.Bustling beach scene in Algarve with clear turquoise waters, flanked by rugged cliffs and white Mediterranean-style buildings under a bright blue sky.

If you have just one day in Lagos and want to relax on the beach, start your morning at Meia Praia (map) – the largest beach in the area. Relax on the soft golden sand and swim in the crystal clear waters.

Rent a sun umbrella and lounge chair and spend a few hours soaking up the sun and swimming in the calm waters. You can also take a short walk along the cliffs to Praia Dona Ana (map), one of the most beautiful and photogenic beaches in Lagos.

In the evening, you can take a short taxi ride into the charming old town of Lagos to explore the historic streets and have dinner at one of the excellent seafood restaurants.

Where to stay in Lagos

These are the best hotels in each price category for your 1-night stay in Lagos:

  • Hotel Marina Rio ($$$) – overlooking the Lagos marina, this hotel features a heated rooftop pool, a spacious sun terrace, and modern, nicely decorated rooms with all necessary amenities.
  • Dom Pedro Lagos ($$) – this aparthotel is situated just a short walk from the beach and has an outdoor pool and an on-site bar where you can enjoy a drink and a snack.
  • Ocean View Lagos ($) – each room at the property is simply decorated, and most rooms feature a private bathroom. Guests are invited to use the outdoor pool and games room.

Day 9: Leave Algarve and explore Lisbon

A scenic overlook with two people standing by a railing, offering a panoramic view of a city with a mix of historical and modern buildings, and a distant bridge spanning a river under a partly cloudy sky.A scenic overlook with two people standing by a railing, offering a panoramic view of a city with a mix of historical and modern buildings, and a distant bridge spanning a river under a partly cloudy sky.

How (and how fast) you get from the Algarve to Lisbon depends on your starting point, i.e., where in the Algarve you’ll be staying.

The info above takes Faro as the starting point, as this is the largest city in the Algarve, and the trip from there is very straightforward. However, all the other towns are very close by, and you can easily get from anywhere – say Lagos (my recommendation) or Albufeira – to Lisbon. The trip will just take a little longer, and you might need to change trains.

If you’re not driving, it’s best to make Faro your base to simplify your trip. Still, if you want to stay in Lagos and go to Lisbon from there, you can take a train to Tunes, then switch to another train to Lisbon. I do have to warn you – this adds 1h 30 min to your trip.

And if you’re staying in Albufeira – good news! There’s a direct train to Lisbon that takes 3h 15 min.

Once again, we’re back to driving, as this is the absolute best way to get from Algarve to Lisbon. If you take the highway, you’ll reach Lisbon in less than 3 hours, but if you’d like a more scenic drive, you can take the N120 road (from Lagos) along the Alentejo Coast and enjoy the scenic views.

View of Lisbon, Portugal, featuring colorful buildings, a historic castle on a hill, and the 25 de Abril Bridge in the background over the Tagus River under a clear blue sky.View of Lisbon, Portugal, featuring colorful buildings, a historic castle on a hill, and the 25 de Abril Bridge in the background over the Tagus River under a clear blue sky.

If you go with the second option, you’ll need to leave a bit earlier, as this route takes 1h 30 min extra to drive. But it’s definitely worth the effort! You can stop at Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park (map) along the way to admire the scenery and snap some photos.

NOTE: I would recommend leaving the Algarve in the morning (before 11). That way you can arrive at your accommodation before dark and have a little extra time to explore Lisbon (the city I currently call home).

Day 9 in Lisbon (if you arrive in the evening)

  • Visit Time Out Market (map) and grab a quick bite
  • Walk around the Baixa neighborhood (map)

Otherwise, you can always do these on the next day!

Day 10-11: Lisbon

A vintage black car drives along a cobblestone street lined with parked tuk-tuks and pedestrians. A red building with white-trimmed windows and a tree are in the background.A vintage black car drives along a cobblestone street lined with parked tuk-tuks and pedestrians. A red building with white-trimmed windows and a tree are in the background.

No Portugal itinerary would be complete without a trip to Lisbon, the charming Portuguese capital! One of the most recognizable things about Lisbon is its unique landscape; the city is situated on a hill, and even though climbing through the streets can be challenging, the views will make it all worth it.

I planned a 3-night stay in Lisbon to allow you to rest and explore with a more relaxed tempo. There’s plenty to do in the city, so 3 days will pass pretty fast, and I’m sure you’ll want to come back again.

One of the best things to do in Lisbon is join a guided tour! There’s plenty of choice when it comes to tours – here is our selection of the best ones. Fado shows are another unmissable activity, and we have recommendations for that as well – available here.

If you’re up for it, I recommend walking around Lisbon. But since it’s a hilly city, you can also use the extensive public transport network. Get the Lisboa Card, which gives you free, unlimited access to all public transportation and 26 attractions!

TIP: If you don’t want to get the Lisboa card, you can just use your normal contactless card to tap in and out of the metro. This won’t work on the buses, trams and some of the other trains though (you’ll need cash for individual tickets or a transport card). My advice is to get a Navegante card and load either money on it or unlimited trips within a time period.

Like for all the other multi-day stays, I divided the activities by day to help you better organize your time.

Classic Lisbon yellow tram navigating a narrow street, lined with traditional buildings, under the clear blue skyClassic Lisbon yellow tram navigating a narrow street, lined with traditional buildings, under the clear blue sky

Day 10 in Lisbon

  • Start your day at Praça do Comércio (map) and snap some pics
  • Ride the historic Eléctrico 28 tram (map) – skip if lines are long
  • Wander through the charming Baixa neighborhood
  • Ride the historic Elevador de Santa Justa (map)
  • Explore the Chiado district (map)
  • Have lunch at the Time Out Market food hall
  • Stroll through the narrow streets of Alfama (map)
  • Enjoy a fado music show and dinner

Day 11 in Lisbon

  • Visit the Belém Tower (map) and go up to the roof to admire the view
  • Spend some time exploring Jerónimos Monastery (map)
  • Admire the intricate sculptures of the Monument to the Discoveries (map)
  • Have a pastel de nata at the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery (map)
  • End the day with a bang on a sunset party cruise with an open bar

Where to stay in Lisbon

A bustling street in the Bairro Alto district of Lisbon, filled with people walking and shopping, lined with colorful buildings and outdoor cafes under a clear blue skyA bustling street in the Bairro Alto district of Lisbon, filled with people walking and shopping, lined with colorful buildings and outdoor cafes under a clear blue sky

Each of the accommodations on this list is centrally located and a great choice for a comfy stay in Lisbon. Also, you get to pick one that meets your budget.

  • Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel ($$$) – situated in Lisbon’s historic center, this charming hotel has an á lá carte restaurant, a 24/7 front desk, concierge services, and a tour desk. Continental breakfast is served every morning.
  • Browns Downtown Hotel ($$): This central Lisbon hotel offers modern and trendy rooms with private marble bathrooms. Each room is individually decorated and has a coffee station.
  • Urban Garden Hostel ($) – each of the dormitories at this hostel is decorated in original style and provides access to private bathrooms. On-site, you’ll also find a communal kitchen where you can prepare your own meals.

Day 12: Day trip to Sintra

The writer of the post stands in front of a vibrant red and yellow building with intricate architectural details, smiling and enjoying the day.The writer of the post stands in front of a vibrant red and yellow building with intricate architectural details, smiling and enjoying the day.

Sintra is a small town situated just 32 km (20 miles) away from Lisbon. The entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its castles, royal palaces, and 19th-century architecture. The place is simply charming, and I highly recommend visiting it!

The easiest, way to explore Sintra is by taking a guided day tour from Lisbon; you’ll see all the top attractions and not worry about transportation for once.

But you can also navigate this day trip from Lisbon without a guided tour, it is a little more complicated though. You can easily drive to Sintra but once you’re in the town, you’ll struggle to get around and parking isn’t easy. Because of this, I’d recommend rather taking the train (and buses within Sintra).

The first thing to do – wake up early and start the trip in the morning – if you arrive late, the town will be super crowded. Plus, there really is so much to do in Sintra!

Starting at 06.20 a.m. there are trains from Lisbon to Sintra every half hour, so you can pick a time that works for you. If you want to take a bus around Sintra, don’t forget to bring cash to pay on the bus.

When you arrive at the Sintra train station (wait for the last stop), you’ll be in the heart of the historic center, so you can walk around a bit and explore.

A breathtaking view of a gothic-style palace surrounded by lush gardens and tall trees, with intricate architectural details standing out under a bright blue sky.A breathtaking view of a gothic-style palace surrounded by lush gardens and tall trees, with intricate architectural details standing out under a bright blue sky.

There really is a lot of stuff to do in Sintra, so you’ll need to plan your time carefully (and book your tickets in advance!). Also be sure to check train and bus schedules in advance! If you miss your train or bus you may need to wait over 20 mins for the next one!

To get from the train station to the various attractions, you’ll need to take the bus (or walk). There are a couple options for the different attractions, but your best bet is tourist bus 434 – more info here.

The top attractions in Sintra include the Pena Palace and the Quinta da Regaleira castle. However, these 2 spots are highly visited, so you might have to face the crowds. Again, we have some tips on how to get tickets; more info about Pena Palace tickets here, and advice on getting Quinta da Regaleira tickets here.

I highly recommend visiting both and there’s enough time to do both in a day! But if you have to choose one to explore at a more relaxing pace, I’d personally choose the Pena Palace!

Although you can spend the night in Sintra, I rather suggest getting back to Lisbon in the evening and leaving for Porto from there.

Things to do in Sintra

  • Start your day with a visit to the National Palace of Pena (map)
  • Explore the Quinta da Regaleira castle (map)
  • End your explorations with a visit to the Park and Palace of Monserrate (map)
  • Have dinner at Romaria de Baco (map)
  • Optional: Enjoy a walk around The Moorish Castle (map)
  • Optional: Visit the museum at the Sintra National Palace (map)

Day 13: Leave Lisbon and arrive in Porto

The iconic blue 'Porto.' sign in front of the ornate City Hall in Avenida dos Aliados, Porto, with the writer of the article sitting in the letter 'O', under a cloudy skyThe iconic blue 'Porto.' sign in front of the ornate City Hall in Avenida dos Aliados, Porto, with the writer of the article sitting in the letter 'O', under a cloudy sky

The final stop on this Spain and Portugal 14-day itinerary is Porto, famous for its port wine, gorgeous bridges, and cobbled streets. The historic center of Porto boasts impressive architecture and many restaurants and cafes where you can unwind and relax.

There are direct trains from Lisbon to Porto throughout the day, and taking the train is more affordable than driving –it’s also faster! So, even if you’ve got a rental car, I suggest you drop it off in Lisbon and make the last leg of this trip by train.

Since this is the last place you’ll be staying, spend 2 nights in Porto (one full day and half a day when you arrive from Lisbon). If possible, book your flight that leaves in the afternoon/evening of day 15 so you can go to the airport with no rush and even fit one more activity.

The historic center of Porto is a must-visit, but you should also do some shopping. The Livraria Lello is one of the oldest in the country, and Mercado Bom Sucesso is a bustling market that warrants a visit.

Day 13 in Porto (if you arrive early)

  • Stop to admire the Luís I Bridge (map) and snap some photos
  • Optional: Go on a tuk-tuk city tour and a cruise along the Douro River
  • Optional: Go book shopping at Livraria Lello (map)
  • Go for a walk at Jardins do Palácio de Cristal (map)

Day 14 in Porto

The writer of the post gazes out over the historic Ribeira district of Porto, with the Douro River and Dom Luís I Bridge in the background on an overcast day.The writer of the post gazes out over the historic Ribeira district of Porto, with the Douro River and Dom Luís I Bridge in the background on an overcast day.

For your last day in Porto, these are the top attractions you should check out:

Day 14 in Porto

  • Visit the Porto Cathedral (map)
  • Shop at Mercado Bom Sucesso (map) and Shopping Cidade do Porto (map)
  • Stop by the Casa da Música (map) to admire the architecture
  • Optional: Visit the Jardim Botânico do Porto
  • Go on a guided tour of the Bolsa Palace
  • Pay a visit to the Chapel of Souls (map)

The next day (Day 15), you’ll need to leave for Porto Airport and fly home. Keep this in mind when booking your flights and add an extra day for travel time and getting settled at home.

Optional extras 

Want to stay an extra day in Porto? Here’s what I would do:

  • Shopping at Mercado do Bolhão (map)
  • Make a stop at the Church of Saint Francis (map)
  • Immerse yourself in history at the Port Wine Museum
  • Go for a stroll along the Ribeira do Porto (map)
  • Check out the collection at the World of Discoveries history museum

Alternatively, on this extra day, you can go on a guided tour of the Duoro Valley and have a super relaxing day to wrap up the trip.

Where to stay in Porto

A picturesque view of Porto's colorful houses stacked along the hillsideA picturesque view of Porto's colorful houses stacked along the hillside

For your 1-night stay in Porto, these are the top options in each price category:

  • Torel Palace Porto ($$$) – a 5-star hotel with an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar. Concierge and luggage storage are also provided by the hotel, and buffet and continental breakfast are available daily.
  • Casa Antiga ($$) – this lovely guest house features rooms with a private bathroom and a desk, and has an on-site coffee shop and bar. Guests can also benefit from luggage storage and bicycle rentals.
  • Easy Host Porto ($) – offering private and shared rooms, this hostel also has a shared kitchen and offers luggage storage. Free Wi-Fi is also provided, while parking is available for an additional fee.
📅 How many days: 14 days
🇪🇸 Best attraction in Spain: Sagrada Família
🇵🇹 Best attraction in Portugal: Sintra
💵 Average cost: from €2,500 to €3,000
🌞 When to visit: March to May/September to November

Customizing the itinerary

The writer of the post stands at the edge of a turquoise reflecting pool, admiring the futuristic white architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences complex under a clear blue skyThe writer of the post stands at the edge of a turquoise reflecting pool, admiring the futuristic white architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences complex under a clear blue sky

A 14-day itinerary might not work for everyone. Some people have more time to explore these beautiful countries, while others unfortunately have less.

You can easily customize this same itinerary too – with the optional extras I already provided for Barcelona, Madrid, and Porto, you can easily make this a 17-18 day trip, but here are some other ways to customize the itinerary:

21-day itinerary 

If you have 21 days total, there are a few stops you can add:

  • Valencia – from Barcelona, head to Valencia and spend 2 days there before moving on to Madrid.
  • Granada – spend 1 day in Granada after your stay in Madrid and before heading to Cordoba
  • Cordoba – spend 1 day in Cordoba before you head to Seville
  • Extra day in Seville – spending an extra day here is a good idea, as the city has plenty to offer.
  • Coimbra – there are plenty of things to do in Coimbra, so stop here for 1 day before heading to Porto
  • Extra day in Porto – add an extra day in Porto, so instead of leaving on the 2nd day, you’ll leave on the 3rd

10-day itinerary 

Need to create a Portugal and Spain itinerary for 10 days? Don’t worry – that’s totally doable! And here’s how!

  • Spend one day less in Madrid
  • Skip Algarve coast
  • Spend one day less in Lisbon

Even though you’ll miss out on some things with this itinerary, you’ll still get to see the main highlights.

FAQs about visiting Spain and Portugal

Two people standing in an ornate courtyard.Two people standing in an ornate courtyard.

📅 How many days do you need in Spain and Portugal?

To fully experience Spain and Portugal, you need 14 days. Although 10-day and 12-day itineraries could work, a 2-week trip is an ideal amount of time.

🍃 What is the best month to visit Spain and Portugal?

The best months for visiting Spain and Portugal are April and May when the weather’s not too hot, and there are that many crowds.

⏳ Can you do Spain and Portugal in 7 days?

Yes, you can do Spain and Portugal in 7 days, but the trip will be rushed, and you’ll have to skip out on many destinations. In 7 days, you could visit Barcelona, Madrid, and Lisbon.

🛬 What is the best way to travel from Spain to Portugal?

The best way to get from Spain to Portugal depends on where you travel. If going from Madrid to Lisbon, a plane is the best option. But as in this itinerary, if you’re going from Seville to Faro, you can also take a bus.

The writer of the post poses in front of a vibrant and intricate tiled wall, wearing a blue top and a necklace, smiling softly.The writer of the post poses in front of a vibrant and intricate tiled wall, wearing a blue top and a necklace, smiling softly.

We’ve reached the end of this Spain and Portugal itinerary. By now, you should have a better idea of where to start, what to visit, and how to get from one place to another.

This busy itinerary is packed with activities and carefully chosen travel times. The best way to ensure everything goes according to plan is to book everything in advance. When I say everything, I mean plane tickets, hotels, buses, trains, and even tours!

If you have any questions, please drop them in the comments below. I am happy to answer everything and help you customize your itinerary.

Happy travels,

Yulia 


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The image shows a 14 days Spain & Portugal itinerary with a photograph of a tram in Lisboa and another of Plaza de España in Seville. The website name "MISSTOURIST" is at the bottom.The image shows a 14 days Spain & Portugal itinerary with a photograph of a tram in Lisboa and another of Plaza de España in Seville. The website name

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11 Unusual Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain

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author of the post with a wide-brimmed hat and blue dress stands in front of a pond, with the Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona visible in the background.author of the post with a wide-brimmed hat and blue dress stands in front of a pond, with the Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona visible in the background.

There are so many great posts about Barcelona out there, but most of them describe the same attractions over and over again. That’s why I’ve created this list on unusual things to do in Barcelona.

What if you have already seen the main sights and want to visit something new? Or maybe you just want to escape the crowds and see some great lesser-known places in Barcelona? (By the way, if you want to avoid crazy lines on popular attractions such as Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo, I have an article with some secret tricks just for you!).

Interior of a grand cathedral with detailed architectural design, tall columns, arched ceilings, stained glass windows, and intricate patterns illuminated by natural light.Interior of a grand cathedral with detailed architectural design, tall columns, arched ceilings, stained glass windows, and intricate patterns illuminated by natural light.

But let’s come back to some places in Barcelona that are off-the-beaten-path. Staying in the city for 2 months allowed me to discover some unique and spectacular places that most of the tourists do not know about.

In case it is not your first time visiting the city or you are looking for something interesting and special, here is the list of 11 coolest fun things to do in Barcelona. Enjoy!

1. Climb the Columbus Monument

A bronze statue of a historical figure dressed in period clothing stands on a pedestal, pointing into the distance against a clear blue sky.A bronze statue of a historical figure dressed in period clothing stands on a pedestal, pointing into the distance against a clear blue sky.

Located right in the city center in front of Barceloneta Beach, the Columbus Column is something that you will probably see many times.

But would you ever imagine that there is an elevator inside the column that takes you to a wonderful view of the city from the top?

I had no idea about it until recently when I was reading some information about it on the friendly Barcelona Tourism site. I think the main reason it is relatively unknown is because the entrance is quite hidden.

Aerial view of a marina with numerous docked boats, a large historic building in the foreground, and a cityscape with low-rise buildings in the background on a clear day.Aerial view of a marina with numerous docked boats, a large historic building in the foreground, and a cityscape with low-rise buildings in the background on a clear day.
Here is the view from the Columbus Column

There are stairs that lead you down to the base of the column, but it looks just like an information center. While you can certainly ask for information there, there is also a cash register, where you can buy your tickets and proceed to the elevator.

The best part? It is cheap and there are almost no people there!

Here are the views from the column:

Aerial view of a cityscape featuring historical buildings, green spaces, and a bustling urban environment under a blue sky with scattered clouds.Aerial view of a cityscape featuring historical buildings, green spaces, and a bustling urban environment under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
Here is the view from the Columbus Column

How to get there: Metro: L3, Drassanes stop. The Column is located at the end of La Rambla Boulevard close to the sea.

PRICE: from €8,8 to take the elevator

2. Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site

A historic brick building with arched windows and ornate stone details, surrounded by trees and a courtyard featuring a statue and fountain, under a cloudy sky.A historic brick building with arched windows and ornate stone details, surrounded by trees and a courtyard featuring a statue and fountain, under a cloudy sky.

Are you a fan of Gaudi architecture but have already been to Casa Batllo and Sagrada Familia? Or maybe you don’t want to go there because it’s too crowded? I might have a great solution for you – pay a visit to a … hospital!

Wait, why is she sending me to the hospital during my vacation?

The Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site is well-known to tourists as the Sant Pau Hospital. No worries, this hospital is real eye candy and you can only visit it by paying for a self-guided or guided tour! 🙂

The reason I suggest visiting the hospital is that it is one of Europe’s foremost art-nouveau sites! Just look at its domes, facades, beautiful sculptures and stained-glass windows everywhere. Isn’t it a masterpiece? It reminds me of the hospital from Harry Potter where he was recuperating after his fights with Voldemort.

You can enter one of the pavilions and see its interior exactly as it was designed at the beginning of the 20th century and get down into the tunnels and learn about some well-known medical practices in Barcelona at that time.

P.S. There are also some live music events organized in the summer; you can see the schedule here.

A spacious room with several metal-framed hospital beds arranged in rows, a central screen divider, and walls featuring colorful tiled patterns under a high, arched ceiling with decorative windows.A spacious room with several metal-framed hospital beds arranged in rows, a central screen divider, and walls featuring colorful tiled patterns under a high, arched ceiling with decorative windows.

Update: Also, you can get a 20% discount with your Barcelona City Pass (that will also give you free skip-the-line admission to Sagrada Familia, Park Guell and many other perks).

How to get there: Metro: L5 Sant Pau/Dos de Maig

PRICE: from €17 

3. Bunkers del Carmel lookout

author of the post looking out over the city of barcelona.author of the post looking out over the city of barcelona.

If you are looking for the perfect sunset in Barcelona look no further than the Bunkers!

Even though this viewpoint is becoming more well known to tourists, it is still a local gem and it is far from the crazy crowds of Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell.

The Bunkers provide a spectacular 360 degree view of Barcelona; I especially recommend it at sunset!

Local tip: The Bunkers close at 7pm during summer, so you won’t be able to watch the sunset from there but there are spots around the Bunkers where you can still enjoy the sunset. It’s not uncommon to see people jumping the fence to get into the Bunkers after hours. But if you want to try this yourself, be warned that there are sometimes police around to prevent this (you likely won’t get into too much trouble, they just tell you to leave).

author of the post is standing on a hill overlooking the city of barcelona.author of the post is standing on a hill overlooking the city of barcelona.

The bunkers were originally built as anti-aircraft fortifications during the Spanish Civil War because the location was perfect for its strategic view of the entire city!

There is pretty much nothing left from the bunker itself – just some concrete remains, but the panoramic views are totally worth the climb! Grab a picnic and your camera, and stay for the sunset! Don’t forget to bring water and sunscreen (and bug spray in summer). 

There are bathrooms at the Bunkers so you don’t need to worry about that. 

Three people stand at an overlook, observing a vast cityscape at dusk, with buildings stretching to the horizon under a partly cloudy sky.Three people stand at an overlook, observing a vast cityscape at dusk, with buildings stretching to the horizon under a partly cloudy sky.

How to get there: You can walk up to the Bunkers from Parc Guell in about 15-20 minutes (just follow your Google Maps). It is not a hard climb, but it includes quite a few stairs and there are no elevators or public transport options this time. The closest metro is Alfons X (map), from there is a 20 min walk uphill (it’s quite the climb so make sure you bring good walking shoes!).

PRICE: free

Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!

4. The helicopter flight over Barcelona

author of the post wearing headphones is seated in the front of a helicopter, looking out at a coastal city and ocean below. The pilot is visible operating the controls.author of the post wearing headphones is seated in the front of a helicopter, looking out at a coastal city and ocean below. The pilot is visible operating the controls.

If you only have a short time available to visit Barcelona and you want to see some of its highlights in style – let me tell you about one amazing tour I recently took.

The tour is called 360 SkyWalk: Land, Sea & Air and this is what it is about:

The tour takes 4 hours and it covers the main sights of Barcelona from three different points of view – Land, Air and Water. It is a one-of-a-kind tour that offers the widest range of activities I have found on the market at the moment!

You will visit the most important sights with an English-speaking guide, fly around Barcelona by helicopter and sail on an old pirate boat close to Barceloneta beach. All this in half a day and for only 100€ per person? Definitely a great deal and some amazing photo opportunities – do not forget to bring your camera!

I took this tour and it was such a unique experience, I just had to add it to our alternative list of things to do in Barcelona!

author of the post is standing on the deck of a boat.author of the post is standing on the deck of a boat.

How to get there: the meeting point is at Passeig de Gràcia

PRICE: €130-160 depending on the dates

I took the tour myself and here is my description of it with a video:

5. The Balloon Museum

Kathryn, team member of Misstourist, wearing a black polka dot dress standing under a large cluster of white balloons shaped like a cloud, in a blue room.Kathryn, team member of Misstourist, wearing a black polka dot dress standing under a large cluster of white balloons shaped like a cloud, in a blue room.

I adored the Balloon Museum. It was weird and wonderful, perfect for art lovers. I originally got this one confused with Bubble Planet but if you have the time I’d highly recommend doing both! The Balloon Museum is more art-based and tailored for adults though (but the kiddies will still love it!).

There’s a ball pit, a bubble room and an exhibition where balloons fly around you. It’s an experience I will never forget!

It’s right by the magic fountain (which unfortunately isn’t operating at the moment due to water restrictions) and Montjuic National Palace. So you can always visit the museum and then head up to the Palace. 

How to get there: The closest metro station is Espana – L1/L3/L8 (map). From there you’ll need to walk 8 mins up to the museum.

PRICE: €20

Note: If you love art, I’d also recommend checking out the Moco Museum.

6. Parc del Laberint d’Horta

A group of people stand and walk around a hedge maze in a park, surrounded by lush greenery and blue sky with scattered clouds. Some are taking photos while others are enjoying the view.A group of people stand and walk around a hedge maze in a park, surrounded by lush greenery and blue sky with scattered clouds. Some are taking photos while others are enjoying the view.

This park is hardly known by tourists at the moment which makes it a perfect spot for lunch or just some relaxation. Did you know a famous scene from the movie “Perfume – The Story of a Murderer” was filmed there?

Besides the labyrinth, the park has a beautiful 14th century house, a waterfall and many alleys to stroll around.

Note: Barcelona currently has quite strict water restrictions and there hasn’t been that much rain so unfortunately the park isn’t quite as beautiful as it once was. It’s still worth a visit but don’t be surprised if it’s not as green as the pictures.

How to get there: L3-Mundet metro stop

PRICE: €2,5, but free on Sunday and Wednesday

7. Bubble Planet

Kathryn, team member of Misstourist, sitting on a swing adorned with pastel balloons in a decorative room with a theme of clouds and sky.Kathryn, team member of Misstourist, sitting on a swing adorned with pastel balloons in a decorative room with a theme of clouds and sky.

If you’re looking for something unusual to do in Barcelona, Bubble Planet should be at the top of your list. This immersive experience is so much fun, offers great opportunities for photos and makes you feel like a little kid again. 

From chilling in a massive ball pit to dancing in a room full of balloons, you can truly lose yourself in the space. I absolutely loved all the sensory experiences (and I got some great pics). It’s also the perfect thing to do with kids in Barcelona (especially during summer when the temperatures get high)!

Local tip: Make sure you book at an off-peak time (early morning or late afternoon) so you can really enjoy yourself! The fewer people in the venue, the better photos you can take and the more fun you can have. 

If you’re looking for more activity ideas, check out my article on things to do with kids in Barcelona

How to get there: The nearest metro station Llacuna – L4 (map). From there, Bubble Planet is a 3-minute walk.

PRICE: from €12

8. Torre Agbar

author of the post sits on grass facing a tall, cylindrical building with a colorful, mosaic-like exterior under a clear blue sky.author of the post sits on grass facing a tall, cylindrical building with a colorful, mosaic-like exterior under a clear blue sky.

This 38-story office tower is not so spectacular during the day, but it becomes a real eye-catcher at night!

The building has a peculiar shape and it is very similar to The Gherkin in London. Agbar Torre was only built in 2003, but it has already become an important part of the city’s skyline. At night the tower is beautifully lit up in different colors! You’ll be able to spot it instantly when you enjoy the sunset from the Bunkers.

How to get there: L1-Glòries metro stop

PRICE: free


9. Casa Vicens

A brightly colored, intricately designed building with various geometric patterns and lush greenery in pots around its base.A brightly colored, intricately designed building with various geometric patterns and lush greenery in pots around its base.

Casa Vicens, the first important project by Antoni Gaudi, often remains forgotten by tourists. It is a beautiful modernist building now transformed into a museum. It has very bright, recognizable colors and it was of great importance to the evolution of this genius architect.

The best part? No need to drive too far away as it is located to the north of the city center.

How to get there: L3-Fontana, L6-Sant Gervasi, L7-Plaça Molina

PRICE: from €22


10. Placa Sant Felip Neri

A stone courtyard with a weathered building, featuring a statue above a large wooden door. The area includes a cobblestone ground, a tree on the left, and a round stone fountain on the right.A stone courtyard with a weathered building, featuring a statue above a large wooden door. The area includes a cobblestone ground, a tree on the left, and a round stone fountain on the right.
© To Do Barcelona

It is quite a surprise to find such a charming square in the heart of the bustling city!

This is a very charming, offbeat and lesser-known square that made an appearance in movies like “Vicky Cristina Barcelona”, “The Parfume” and even in the video clip of Evanescence’s “My Immortal”.

But the square has a rather dark history. Franco’s execution squads executed school children there and you can still notice bomb traces dating from the Civil War. Despite its sad past, the place has a laid-back atmosphere now.

A stone fountain stands in the center of a cobblestone courtyard with worn beige brick walls and two closed doors in the background.A stone fountain stands in the center of a cobblestone courtyard with worn beige brick walls and two closed doors in the background.
© Espai Barcelona

There is also a tiny café (where Vicky was flirting with Juan Antonio in the movie) where you can relax and enjoy the gothic architecture of the place.

How to get there: it is a little hard to find it in the Gothic Quarter but it is worth searching. It is not far from Barcelona Cathedral, but it is always better to use Google Maps to navigate along the narrow streets.

PRICE: free

11. White Rabbit Off-Museum

Entrance to the White Rabbit Museum in Barcelona, featuring a bright yellow tunnel and minimalist design. Signage displays the museum's name and tagline, "The Off-Museum of Barcelona.Entrance to the White Rabbit Museum in Barcelona, featuring a bright yellow tunnel and minimalist design. Signage displays the museum's name and tagline, "The Off-Museum of Barcelona.

One of the most amazing experiences I stumbled upon during my time in Barcelona was White Rabbit. This immersive museum really surprised me because it’s focussed on Barcelona’s history and Catalan culture. I not only had the best time but I also learned so much about the city that I didn’t know. 

It’s such a treat for both adults and kids. There’s a silent disco room with a sound curated by Razzmatazz (one of the most popular music venues in Barcelona), a virtual reality experience, and an impressive audiovisual room showcasing the best of Barcelona’s art and architecture.

PRO TIP: Use the bathroom and PUSH THE BUTTON. 

How to get there: Closest metro is Passeig de Gracia -L4/ L3/L1 (map), from there, it’s about a 4-minute walk (depending on what exit you use).

PRICE: From €15

Bonus 1: Rent a Vespa (just Like in The Movies)

A red Vespa scooter parked on a city sidewalk near a brick wall, with a blurred background of street and bicycle.A red Vespa scooter parked on a city sidewalk near a brick wall, with a blurred background of street and bicycle.

If you want to see Barcelona in the most stylish way – rent a Vespa! Barcelona is a perfect city to discover by scooter because the traffic is organized, (not crazy like in Asia) the boulevards are wide and it’s easy to find your way.

You can easily cover all the main attractions in one day and take some great pictures! You will ride past some local neighborhoods and see how people live there, too. I think this is the best way to see the city!

If you have a driver’s license, book your Vespa here. You will get a Vespa scooter for 24 hours, helmets, basic insurance, locks and GPS.

Bonus 2: Enjoy a Street Festival

Vibrant red parrot sculpture with detailed feathers on a decorated street with colorful bird cutouts and green net covering.Vibrant red parrot sculpture with detailed feathers on a decorated street with colorful bird cutouts and green net covering.

There are non-stop parties in Barcelona during summer, but some of the best ones are the “festa major” district festivals. Every district in Barcelona has their own fiesta, which lasts about a week, and during that time the streets are full of people drinking and partying to live music by local bands and DJs. There are also workshops, artistic performances, crazy Catalan traditions – like building human castles – and much more.

The most famous of the street festivals is La Festa Major de Gracia and every year during this party, the neighbors compete with each other to see who can decorate their streets in the best fashion, with each adopting a theme: superheroes, a Greek symposium, a pirate ship, or arcade games to name a few themes seen in recent years.

Best of all? These parties are free to attend!

Some practical tips on traveling in Barcelona

Now let’s dive into some practical tips to help you make the most of your trip to Barcelona. 

Where to stay in Barcelona

Aerial view of a cityscape featuring a broad tree-lined boulevard with people walking, flanked by historic buildings and distant mountains under a clear sky.Aerial view of a cityscape featuring a broad tree-lined boulevard with people walking, flanked by historic buildings and distant mountains under a clear sky.

Here are the suggestions I have carefully selected for you. All of the hotels I suggest are located in the city center and each one of them has fabulous reviews. They are sorted into price categories for your convenience. Click the link to check the rates for your dates.

Luxury (€300 and up)

  • If you are a football fan, Grand Hyatt Barcelona, which is a five star hotel is the perfect choice for you as it is located 5 minutes away from the famous Camp Nou stadium. It offers wonderful rooms designed with a keen eye for details in a modern way which will make you feel right at home. 
  • Another five star hotel is Alma Barcelona GL, which features elegant decorations, a spa with an indoor swimming pool, a hamam, a sauna and a gym. A nice feature of this hotel is the indoor terrace, perfect for resting and relaxation after a hard day of sightseeing.

Mid-ramge (€100 – 300)

  • Vasanta Hostal Boutique is a wonderful establishment which features nicely designed rooms in neutral tones and has a shared lounge. Coffee shops, restaurants and a lot of pubs can be found within walking distance of this accommodation option. 
  • Another middle priced choice is Hostalin Barcelona Passeig de Gracia which has been reviewed by its past guests as clean and an overall perfect choice. If you fancy wines, you will be delighted to hear that it is located right above Vinoteca Torres!

Budget (up to €100)

  • Rodamon Barcelona Hostel is situated right next to the Palau Robert Gardens, so if you fancy nature and visit the surroundings, this is the perfect budget choice. 
  • Another great budget choice is Ten To Go Hostel, which offers a shared daytime area and even a pool. La Pedrera is located 2.8 km from the property and if you are traveling by train, Ten To Go Hostel is perfect, as it is located very close to the main train station.

If you are looking for a hotel in Barcelona, I have this post where all accommodation suggestions are sorted by price and area.

How not to get robbed In Barcelona

Interior view of a cathedral with tall columns, colorful stained glass windows, and illuminated light patterns on the walls.Interior view of a cathedral with tall columns, colorful stained glass windows, and illuminated light patterns on the walls.

It does not mean it will happen to you, but you should really watch your belongings when in Barcelona.

Pickpockets are all over the city and they are professionals. I have never heard so many stories of robberies in one city!

Follow these simple tips and you will be fine:

  • Watch your bag at all times – in the metro, in restaurants, don’t put it in the free seat, keep it in your hands, I am serious!
  • Don’t carry your passport with you.
  • If you have a backpack, don’t carry anything of value there – keep your cell phone and your wallet close and visible to you at all times.
  • Don’t go around the streets of Barcelona drunk at night

NOTE: There are so many cases of robberies in Barcelona that the government of Catalunya implemented a new law that states that the investigation will not even start if the value of the stolen goods is less than 500€. The police just can’t deal with the volume of robberies!

How to get from Barcelona El Prat airport to the city center

author of the post stands on a balcony overlooking an amusement park with a decorative building and a tall church in the background.author of the post stands on a balcony overlooking an amusement park with a decorative building and a tall church in the background.

Barcelona El Prat airport is located 13 km away from the city and there are different ways to get from there to the city center  of Barcelona.

AeroBus
There is a bus that leaves every 5 minutes from the Airport, it costs 8,50€ one way or 12.50€ round trip. You can pay with your credit card. You can also buy it in advance on the website. The bus stops at Plaça Espana and Plaça Catalunya, both of which are very central.

From there, you can take a metro to get to your accommodation.

NOTE: Spanish people like to strike, so this transport might not always be available.

Bus 46
The public bus number 46 is slower than the AeroBus because it has more stops, but its great advantage is that you can pay the normal bus fare (you can buy the Tcasual/ Tusual package). If you land at night time, you can use Nitbus N17, the fare is the same.

Blue and white tram with the number 7 on the side, parked at a station. Flags fly above, and people, cars, and buildings are visible in the background.Blue and white tram with the number 7 on the side, parked at a station. Flags fly above, and people, cars, and buildings are visible in the background.

Train
There is a RENFE train that runs approximately every 30 minutes and it will take you to the city center in 25 minutes. You can get off at either Barcelona Sants, Passeig de Gràcia or Clot stations. There is a shuttle bus from the airport that will take you to the train station for free. A single train ticket from the airport to the city center costs €4.90 but it can’t be used on the metro or buses.

Metro
There is a new metro stop that was opened in 2016 and it goes directly to the airport! The line is called L9 Sud. This ticket will cost 5,5€ and the Tcasual ticket cannot be used from the airport.

Taxi
You can easily flag down a taxi at Barcelona airport (and it’s cheaper than using an app). You’ll see signs directing you to the buses and taxis from the arrivals exit. Just follow the signs and wait in the line to grab your taxi. Most of the taxi drivers don’t speak English so it’s best to either show them the location or use Google Translate.

It will cost you about 25-30€ to get to the city center.

Rent a car
There are several car companies available right in the airport. Rates can be really attractive if you book in advance. Check this link for an exclusive 10% discount for my readers here!

Get around Barcelona

Crowd of people visiting the iconic entrance of Park Güell in Barcelona, featuring two uniquely designed buildings with intricate architectural details.Crowd of people visiting the iconic entrance of Park Güell in Barcelona, featuring two uniquely designed buildings with intricate architectural details.

A single ticket for a metro ride in Barcelona is currently 2,5€.

The Tcasual card (10 rides in the city) is 12,5€, which is pretty cool because it brings down the cost of your ride from 2,5 to 1.25€ per ride! 

What is also cool is that you can use it for 2 or more people.

The bus ride will cost you 2,55€ if you don’t have the Tcasual card. You can’t buy the card from the driver.

PRO TIP: If you’re staying for longer, I highly recommend getting the T-usual card. It’s around 21€ for a 30-day pass with UNLIMITED trips. You can get everywhere you need to go in Barcelona with the Zone 1 option. This means you can use the bus, metro and trains as much as you’d like. It also doesn’t matter if you accidentally get off at the wrong stop.

You can rent public bicycles in Barcelona and it’s one of the quickest ways to get around! They have Bolt, Lime and Cooltra bicycles around the city. But you’ll also find Bicing bikes but those are more for locals.

One of the best ways to discover Barcelona like a local, in my opinion, is by renting a scooter (more information about it above).

You will also probably walk a lot since Barcelona is a very walkable city so make sure to bring comfy shoes!

Final thoughts

author of the post in a white dress sits on a stone railing overlooking a cityscape on a clear day.author of the post in a white dress sits on a stone railing overlooking a cityscape on a clear day.

Thank you for reading this article!

Barcelona is a very special city that has changed a lot since 1992 (when it hosted the Olympics and many things were renovated or built from scratch).

I have visited Barcelona 3 times, but it was not enough – I came back for more to live there for a while!

Barcelona is the city of Gaudi, modernism, Miro and Picasso. But it also has some “new” alternative attractions that you might not have heard about.

Here I described my list of 8 lesser known unique places to visit in Barcelona.

I hope you discovered some new, cool places to add to your Barcelona bucket list and I hope you will visit some of them!

What will you try from this list of quirky things to do in Barcelona?

Let me know in the comments and Share this article with your friends, if you found it useful!

Yulia


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Collage of Barcelona attractions with text: "Unusual and Fun Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain." Features landmarks, unique activities, and colorful architecture.Collage of Barcelona attractions with text:

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A collage of photos showing various unique and exciting activities in Barcelona, Spain, including a rooftop view, a cloud-themed installation, a ball pit bathtub, and the White Rabbit museum.A collage of photos showing various unique and exciting activities in Barcelona, Spain, including a rooftop view, a cloud-themed installation, a ball pit bathtub, and the White Rabbit museum.





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Travel

Even Mature Risk Management Programs Need an Occasional Tune-Up

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Finastra director of global travel management and workplaces Mauro Ruggiero knew that the financial software company had a well-developed travel risk management program, but an independent assessment revealed some gaps.

With employees traveling in high-risk locations including Iraq, Pakistan, Israel and Lebanon and given the general responsibility as a corporation to protect employees, Finastra already had numerous risk management best practices in place. It was working with International SOS and monitoring its employee travel, ready to follow up and chase down employees if something happened in the area in which they were traveling.

“I was confident to say we had a very mature approach in how we protect our travelers when they are out and about,” Ruggiero said.

Assessing the Program

At the suggestion of Advito, the consultancy of BCD Travel, Finastra’s travel management company, Finastra’s travel and security teams worked with BCD and Advito to analyze their travel risk management program, seeing how well it aligned with ISO standards on risk management.

“They could come in, take a look at that as a third party, 10,000 feet above, and give us an unbiased view, tell us where we could improve and score us,” Ruggiero said.

FINASTRA PROGRAM SNAPSHOT

Annual revenue: Approximately $1.9 billion

Annual travel spend: Approximately $20 million

Headcount: Approximately 8,000 employees worldwide

Global headquarters: London

U.S. headquarters: Lake Mary, Fla.

As Ruggiero had assessed, the analysis showed Finastra’s risk management program was “well-managed” in “several areas.” However, there were others where “we needed to do a better job,” he said.

One major gap was that Finastra lacked a separate travel risk policy, which “was not something that was even on our radar,” according to Ruggiero. The company now is putting that together, with hopes that will be approved by its policy committee in a month or so, he said.

The assessment also showed a need for Finastra to improve its communication around its travel risk management program, Ruggiero said. That new communication effort will kick off once the new policy is approved.

“We already have the traveler intranet page that houses a lot of the traveler risk components that we offer, such as International SOS link and a list of cities that are high-risk,” he said. “We have it all, but we learned we need to tie it together better.”

Part of the communication strategy will be a form for travelers to acknowledge they understand the risk management resources that are available to them, Ruggiero said. Travelers going to high-risk areas will have a separate, more detailed acknowledgement document. Ruggiero said he is hopeful that will also drive higher use of ISOS by travelers, which currently has “very low utilization.”

Keeping it Fresh

Ruggiero said communication would be an ongoing process, which also was a recurring theme at the annual Global Travel Risk Summit in Houston earlier this summer, co-produced by HospitalityLawyer.com and The BTN Group. Several speakers highlighted how business travelers often remain unaware of resources available to them.

For example, Jason Selvon, co-founder of risk and crisis management firm RISRR Global, said 60 percent of travelers are not using the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to stay updated on destination-specific safety information. At the same time, Selvon said information—particularly on the legal and medical side—from embassies often can be out of date, as many work with small staffs with limited resources, so effective communication must be backed up by a company’s own efforts.

“You have to take that as face value and do your own research, build your own logistical pipeline and support network in those countries,” Selvon said. “If you’re traveling down to Colombia often because there’s a huge client out there, send someone out to ensure you know what car rental organization you want to use, what hotels you want to use and how far you should stay from the embassy.”

Ross Pratt, SVP and managing director of the Americas for TMC Wings Global Travel, recommended random testing of travelers who frequent high-risk destinations. That can help ensure they remain aware of related risks and that they are not falling into patterns that could put them in danger.

“Maybe the person goes on rotation and has been on the same rotation for 10 years and keeps going to the same place over and over again,” Pratt said. “Do you just forget about them and think they know what they’re doing?”

Avoiding Complacency

Duty of care remains the top priority of BCD clients, and risk management figures in the other top priorities per the TMC’s most recent annual client survey, BCD Travel Global Crisis Management senior program manager Christine Connolley said. As such, she’s “definitely seeing a demand” for travel security program assessments to align with the ISO 31030 standards published a few years ago.

“It’s so exciting to have this real framework and approach to risk management,” she said. “We can really go in and fine tune with clients their programs to make sure their employees are really traveling safely and they’re really fulfilling their duty-of-care obligations.”

One of the most frequently identified need for improvement is establishing internal stakeholders rather than having the majority of the responsibility fall on the travel manager, who is “rarely equipped to handle an emergency” such as a traveler needing medical assistance, Connolley said. The assessment can help build a “cooperative endeavor” between security, HR, finance, legal and executive management for risk management.

“If they don’t have that, all the dominoes fall, and it just goes back to the travel manager, who is almost powerless,” she said. “And they can’t be available 24 hours a day.”

Beyond the assessment, Connolley said it’s also critical for traveler feedback to gauge risk management, which can be accomplished by adding security questions to post-trip feedback surveys. For example, she recalled a recent trip where she arrived at a hotel to find the door to the connecting room had been left unlocked.

“If my employer asks me, ‘How was your trip; did you feel safe?’ and I can report that back to my employer, they can go back to the preferred hotel and address it,” Connolley said. “The traveler is on that front end and is going to be your best testament to that experience.”

Even when it seems like all the best practices are in place, however, maintaining a risk management program is a never-ending job.

“Any company that doesn’t do an assessment is sorely missing the boat on a great opportunity to improve,” Ruggiero said. “Even if it’s 99 percent there, there’s still that 1 percent you can improve, and that shouldn’t be looked at as a negative.”



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