If you've made the decision to visit Barcelona, then let us say first of all that we commend you on your taste. Barcelona is a place rich in culture and just plain, old-fashioned fun.

Barcelona Travel Tip #1: Things to Visit

Most of the great Mediterranean cities have an abundance of festivals that they celebrate, and Barcelona is no exception. The climate most of the year is perfect for these events, and so all year, there are events that you should check out. For instance, in the winter, there is a huge winter festival in honor of St. Jordi (St. George), Barcelona's patron saint. There is a summer celebration that honors St. John and another for St. Peter. When to Visit - Arts and Events

Like many other Mediterranean cities, Barcelona is festive: from the cobbles of its ancient streets to the spires of Gaudí's extraordinary buildings. The agreeable climate brings people out to celebrate, with very little excuse, the cycle of life and seek the blessing of good spirits. All year there are holidays and holy days, each backed by centuries of tradition. For instance, being the capital of Catalonia, Barcelona honours the region's patron saint, St Jordi (St George), with a massive winter festival, while summer brings the city out again to celebrate both St John and St Peter.

Something else you should visit, although not a festival, is any of the areas many tapas bar. The eating of tapas is a tradition distinct to Spain, and one you'll find enjoyable. This is a delicious Spanish food, and just as in North America, friends meet regularly at a coffee shop, in Barcelona, they meet at a tapas bar.

Barcelona Travel Tip #2: Dining

If you're in Barcelona and can't decide what to eat, just head over to La Rambia. Nearly every kind of cuisine you could want is within walking distance of this area. Most of them serve lunch from about 1:00 to 4:00. Dinner is eaten much later, usually after dark.

Barcelona Travel Tip #3: Tipping Advice

While we're on the subject, here's some advice for tipping at Barcelona restaurants. The service people only expect 10% of your bill for a gratuities; leave less if you have only tapas. Likewise, taxi drivers expect about 10% of the fare.

Barcelona Travel Tip #4: Take the Metro

There's really no need to drive the streets of Barcelona, since the city has a very nice, neat city-train system (the "metro") that can carry you where you want to go. It's within walking distance of most makor spots in the city. And it's quite affordable.

These are just a few travel trips that will make your trip to Barcelona more rewarding.