Naturally, we are asked about the curious Catalan Christmas traditions. Especially as our Gothic Quarter Free Walking Tour passes through the Santa Llúcia Christmas market where there is much to see. The biggest curiosity is brought about by a figurine defecating near the nativity scene, children beating a huge piece of wood with a stick… Read More
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 the… Read More
Casa LLeó i Morera: modernisme architecture in Barcelona
Unfortunately, the visits to Casa Lleó i Morera have been discontinued. We recommend you visiting Casa Amatller instead. Another beautiful Catalan Art Nouveau masterpiece in the same block. 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… Read More
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… Read More
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… Read More
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. Some of the traditional Catalan desserts and sweets: Crema Catalana [1] This is… Read More
Barcelona cinemas in English: original version movies
One thing that amazed me about Spain when I came here years ago was that all the foreign language programmes and films on TV didn’t have subtitles but were dubbed instead. Unfortunately, this tradition does extend to movie theatres. Don’t despair, Barcelona, being a cosmopolitan city, does have cinemas that offer films in original version.… Read More
How to avoid pickpockets in Barcelona’s metro: Safety tips
Barcelona is a very safe place and having lived here for many years I have never felt uneasy or threatened. However, like any big city, we do have pickpockets in Barcelona and the metro provides very nice opportunities for them. To help guard your belongings in the underground, let me give you some safety tips… Read More
Modernisme: an introduction to Catalan Art Nouveau
What is Modernisme? How does it relate to Gaudí and Barcelona? Let me give you some handy background information on this wonderful Art movement that revolutionised the face of the city. When I was a humble Art student many years ago, our final year trip was planned for Barcelona. Three things sprung to mind: sun… Read More
Museums to visit with children in Barcelona
An updated article on things to do in Barcelona with kids with a lot more helpful information is available here: Barcelona for Kids. One of the most common questions that I get asked as a family guide is what museums I would recommend for kids. Well, it depends on the interest of the parents and… Read More
