The weather is gorgeous and there is a feeling of festivity in the air. From the 22nd to the 25th of September we are celebrating La Mercè 2017, the festival of festivals in Barcelona. It is in honour of one of the patron-saints of the city: our Lady of the Mercy. All of you lucky…
What to do in Barcelona in February: An insider’s view
I wish I received a euro for every time I get asked the question When is a quiet time to go to Barcelona? If you are willing to put up with a bit of chilly weather, this month can be a great time to drop by our beautiful city. Let’s go through what to expect…
What to do for New Year’s Eve in Barcelona 2016-2017
When I spent my first New Year’s Eve in Barcelona, people told me that this night is traditionally spent in families’ homes and that the party only gets started some time after midnight. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that there is certainly no lack of merriment on the streets if you know where…
A traditional Catalan Christmas and New Year in Barcelona
On a crisp winter morning at the end of November, as I was guiding the Gothic Quarter Free Tour, we passed through the Christmas Fair of Saint Lucy. I got many a curious question as to who was that figurine defecating near the nativity scene, why children were beating a huge piece of wood with…
Barcelona Free Museums Day 2017: The Night of the Museums
One of my favourite nights of the year in Barcelona is fast approaching: The Night of the Museums. This free late night viewing of exhibitions is not only exclusive to my city but is part of a wider initiative across Europe. It doesn’t matter if you are a local or a visitor. It is a…
Family friendly restaurants in Barcelona
Coming to Barcelona with a young family? Scratching your head about what family friendly restaurants in Barcelona you should go to? Well, put your worries aside, relax and let me give you the same tips I give to parents on my Kids and Family tours. It should make for a fun and stress-free meal with…
Casa LLeó i Morera: modernisme architecture in Barcelona
Want to visit an architectural gem without the crowds? The Art Nouveau Casa Lleó i Morera, designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, opened its doors to the public last year and I definitely recommend every Art lover to give it a whirl.
Gaudí for kids: a family guide for Barcelona
Gaudí for kids? Yes, why not. Everyone knows Gaudí and his buildings are a not-to-miss attraction in Barcelona but will my children enjoy his work too? The answer is quite simply YES. Firstly, your kids will love the shapes and colours on the Gaudí buildings, and a great bonus is that some of the sites…
The Catalan Festival of Barcelona: Human towers and other traditions
Probably one of the most common enquiries on our Gothic Quarter Free Tour is “where can I see a human tower being built?”. Well, as luck has it, the City Council of Barcelona is proud to show off the unique Catalan culture to visitors. Every Saturday evening during the Summer months and in front of…
Traditional Catalan desserts and sweets: eat like a local in Barcelona
A few weeks ago I wrote a post about the most traditional Catalan dishes. But what meal is ever complete without dessert? Want the low down on what Catalan desserts and sweets to order when that sweet craving comes knocking? Read on.
