4 comments by 2 or more people

1. I'm studying there next year. Apparently the Old Town is great, as well as the area called Eixample (which, contrary to what its name suggests, does not mean "example", but "expansion"). Basically anything along the Diagonal, the city's main boulevard, should be good. But then again, I can't tell you from experience. Ask again in a few months.

   01 Jun 2006, 14:04

2. We went during Easter for a long weekend and really enjoyed ourselves. Will be beautiful weather in July so make the most of it! Going there in March was god as the temperature was pleasant (plus a lovely change from the rain and greyness here) but not too warm or cold.

   For accommodation try Venere.com, which was who we booked our hotel (Silver Aparthotel) through. They have lists of hotels etc across Europe and are very useful, with lots of custome reviews. We had a good sized double with a tiny kitchen facilities plus ensuite for a reasonable price. Was 2 minutes away from the metro as well so ideally located

   Avoid anything around La Ramblas as it'll a) be pricey b) possibly a little dodgy (perfect example was a hotel description we saw that stated that it was perfectly located albeit it being in a major square of prostitution. Made us wonder if it was perfectly located if you wanted a room by the hour….

   We visited the old olympic site, Montjuic Parc, Parc Guell (lots of tourists but more than worthwhile), Sagrada Familia and generally wandered around the city. Make use of the metro as it's cheap, quick and as safe as it's going to get. (We used 65 tickets between two of us in 4 days…. despite doing a lot of walking). If you have time, which in seven days you should, try to get out to the surrounding areas. Can't currently find my guidebook but I recall one of the most recommended areas to be to the north of the city and comprised a perfect day trip from Barcelona itself. For fresh food and an experience make sure you go to the main market off La Ramblas. Photos from our holiday are in one of the galleries on my blog if you're interested.

   Barcelona is seen as having a problem with street crime (my mother was mugged there a few years ago) but we had no problems and same with every other tourist area and main city centre, if you take sensible precautions and don't flash cash or expensive stuff like cameras you shouldn't have a problem.

   01 Jun 2006, 14:22

3. I second the comments about La Ramblas – it's fun to visit, but it's very loud at night and rowdy. I would'nt stay in that area unless you want that sort of thing. Also watch your wallet in that area as it's known for pickpockets.

   I'd recommend the Red Bus tour – it picks up from the bottom of La Ramblas. There are three different routes going to different parts of the city. I found it really helped get me my bearings of the city. It will also take you past all the major sites, which will help you to decide what you want to see more of.

   Parc Guell is nice and I also enjoyed the Sagrada Familia (be prepared for lots of tourists in both places). Barcelona also has some nice beaches that are easily accessible. The public transport system is good and cheap.

   If you're a veggie, I recommend eating at Jucy Jones which is just off La Ramblas. The decor is very 1970s pop–art retro, but don't let that scare you; I had a very delicious three course meal with a glass of wine for only 10 euros.

   Have fun!

   01 Jun 2006, 14:59

4. Eleanor Lovell

   Thanks for all of your suggestions… we have now booked a hotel and I can't wait!! link

   Next is my list of places to visit…

   19 Jun 2006, 12:51