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Barcelona is a city that is perfect for solo travelers. There are so many things to see and do in this vibrant city, and you can easily explore on your own. So here are some travel inspiration and 9 good reasons why you should pack your bags and solo travel Barcelona!
Solo Travel Barcelona – why you should do it!
1 – Barcelona is a perfect city for solo travelers
One of the reasons to visit Barcelona is that it’s the ideal city for solo travelers. Whether you’re looking to explore the winding streets of the Gothic neighborhood, sunbathe in the warm Spanish sun, or take a seat at one of the city’s many fantastic restaurants and cafes, there is something here for everyone.
The locals are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet and are always happy to help newcomers settle in. As with any popular destination, there are a few tourist traps and crimes such as pick-pocketing, but in general, Barcelona is a safe city, especially for female travelers.
And with plenty of accommodation options and affordable public transport, it’s easy to get around and see all that Barcelona has to offer.
Talking about accommodation in Barcelona, here is a list of Barcelona hostels for solo travelers and also some luxury accommodation as well – click on the names for the rooms rate:
So if you’re itching for some adventure and looking for somewhere new to explore, set your sights on beautiful Barcelona – you won’t regret it!
2 – Barcelona is an affordable city to visit
If you’re looking for a destination for solo travel that offers all the charm and excitement of a big city but is also affordable and budget-friendly, look no further than Barcelona in the shoulder season.
Spring and Autumn are perfect for solo travel to Barcelona as you can avoid the massive crowds, get a taste of the city’s life and meet locals easily. And by avoiding the high season, you also save money. The warm weather is also a plus.
The vibrant Spanish metropolis is packed with delicious food, fascinating architecture, and exhilarating nightlife, all at reasonable prices compared to other European capitals. Check out this article about how much it costs to travel to Spain. It’s a diary of two people traveling around Spain but will give you an idea of prices per person on attractions, food, accommodation, and more.
One thing is for sure, whether you want to explore the narrow medieval streets of Barcelona or enjoy a day at Barceloneta beach, you can experience it all without breaking the bank.
Staying in hostels is another great thing about traveling solo to Barcelona, which will allow you to save more money and connect with other fellow travelers.
Another way to save money in Barcelona is by eating at the city’s many tapas bars. Tapas are small plates of Spanish food typically served with drinks. They are the perfect way to sample a variety of Barcelona’s culinary offerings without having to commit to a full meal.
Also, Barcelona tapas bars are the perfect place to meet people while enjoying a few glasses of cava.
3 – There are so many things to do alone in Barcelona
Barcelona is an exciting city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, history, or just want to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere. You’ll find it all here.
The city is home to some of Antoni Gaudí ‘s most famous buildings, like Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, and Park Guell, as well as many other Gothic and Modernista landmarks. And as you might know, some of them are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
You can also explore the Ciutat Vella, Barcelona’s old town formed by incredible neighborhoods like the Gothic, Raval, El Born, and Barceloneta. Walk through the narrow streets, enjoy the sun at the lively plazas, and take a stroll along the beach.
Passeig De Gràcia, Passeig de Sant Joan, and Rambla De Catalunya are also great places to visit alone to admire the incredible architecture of Barcelona.
As much as traveling solo to Barcelona sounds like an easy and carefree experience, keep in mind that you will need to organize and plan a few things.
Barcelona attractions are usually packed, so do not waste your precious time queueing for tickets, plan ahead and have fun. I suggest you make a list of what you want to see in Barcelona, then book your tickets in advance. It’s crucial for places like Sagrada Familia (get your ticket here!).
Other attractions also offer skip-the-line tickets that you can buy in advance, saving you a lot of time, as even during shoulder and low season, these places tend to be busy.
Here are a few of Barcelona’s tops attractions you can book a skip-the-line ticket:
(click on the name to get your tickets)
For those who LOVE museums, Barcelona has incredible ones and worldwide renowned expositions. If that’s your thing, check out this Barcelona Art Ticket Passport. It gives you access to 6 of Barcelona’s best museums, and of course, it is a skip-the-line entrance. You buy the passport online then go to the ticket office at one of the museums you want to visit and exchange it for the printed passport.
All of these you can do by yourself or with people you will meet at the hostels and bars. Traveling solo to Barcelona is never boring. There will always be something happening beyond the famous tourist attractions. Here are 5 tips for enjoying Barcelona like a local.
4 – You can easily explore Barcelona on your own
With some planning, you can see all the city offers without spending a fortune or wasting time waiting in line. As mentioned, start by researching the must-see sights in Barcelona. Then, create a rough itinerary that includes well-known attractions and hidden gems.
Once you arrive in Barcelona city, take advantage of public transportation. The metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around the city without getting lost. The shared bikes and scooter services are good and affordable options as well. And as the city has bike lanes, cycling around is easy and safe.
Another piece of advice is to wear comfy shoes and see Barcelona on foot. It’s one of the best ways to explore the city. Some of the city’s iconic spots are a walking distance of each other, like when in the Barri Gotic (the Gothic Quarter) you can walk to Barcelona Cathedral, Passeig Del Born, and Plaza Catalunya.
And finally, don’t forget to allow yourself some time to wander and explore the Barcelona region. There are plenty of stunning beaches and incredible towns nearby. Most of them are just a bus or train ticket away, or you can visit them on a group tour.
Here are a few incredible things you can do outside Barcelona, and for those who love an adventure, check out this cycling trip in Catalunya.
Another place to add to your solo travel Barcelona itinerary is the Montserrat Monastery. You can visit in one morning or afternoon with a guided tour (click here to book!).
5 – The locals are friendly and welcoming
Barcelona is the place for you if you’re looking for a warm and welcoming place to visit. The locals here are incredibly friendly and go out of their way to ensure visitors feel at home.
Whether you’re looking for directions or just a friendly chat, you’ll always be welcomed with open arms in this lovely city. A solo traveler in Barcelona doesn’t stay alone for too long.
6 – Traveling solo is a great way to meet new people
Barcelona is a great place to meet new people, especially solo traveling. There are plenty of opportunities to strike up conversations with locals and other travelers, and you’ll quickly make new friends.
One of the best ways to meet people is to join a tour or activity. This way, you can explore the city with others and get to know them at the same time. Here are a few ideas for group tours in Barcelona for solo travelers:
Or, if you’re feeling inspired, you can join a cooking class, cocktail master class, or a Spanish wine tasting. You will meet new people, taste delicious authentic food and wine, and learn new skills to impress your friends at home.
7 – You can explore Barcelona at your own pace
There’s no pressure to keep up with a group or follow a schedule if you travel solo in Barcelona. You can do what you want when you want.
If you want to spend all day exploring the city’s countless museums, you can. If you’d rather just wander the streets and soak up the atmosphere, that’s fine too.
It is your vacation, so make sure you do what makes you happy.
8 – You will become more confident
When it comes to travel, few experiences compare to the adventure of hitting the road on your own. And for those seeking more than just a relaxing vacation, there is no better place to explore solo than beautiful Barcelona.
This bustling metropolis offers plenty of excitement around every corner, whether you crave stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, or delectable cuisine. But best of all, traveling solo in Barcelona will open up a whole new world of opportunity for you to meet fascinating people and engage in new experiences.
With each new day, you’ll have the opportunity to push yourself out of your comfort zone and truly embrace all this wonderful city has to offer – and all the while becoming a stronger, more confident version of yourself along the way!
9 – It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about another culture
Barcelona is the perfect place to immerse yourself in another culture. There’s so much to learn about Spanish culture, from the amazing food to the architecture.
And since the locals are so friendly, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions, learn more about their way of life and discover things you won’t find in any travel guide.
You’ll come home from your trip with a better understanding and appreciation for another culture, and that’s always a good thing.
When you travel solo, you’re bound to have some fantastic experiences. And since you’re the only one there, you’ll be the only one who can tell those stories.
So go out and explore Barcelona alone. Have some adventures. Meet new people. And most importantly, have fun!
Now that I convinced you that traveling alone to Barcelona is AMAZING! Let me share that the whole of Spain is worth visiting solo.
After planning your solo trip to Barcelona, check out these non-touristy things to do in Madrid, the country’s stunning capital. Or maybe spend one or two days in Valencia.
A Spanish beach getaway is also a good idea. Think of the stunning Cabo de Gata National Park, Málaga and its many free things to do, or Puerto Pollensa on Mallorca island.
For the active travelers out there, joining a group cycling tour in Spain is a great option to explore the lesser-known parts of the country and make some friends. Or book a Fitness Boot Camp in Mallorca, enjoy the beach while looking after your body and soul, and mingle with like-minded people.
And as Barcelona is a big hub for transport in Europe, it might be just the start point of an incredible solo adventure. Barcelona Airport offers flights for all over Europe and long hauls, so why not think bigger and spread your solo wings to other destinations? The world is yours, go enjoy it!
Are you planning to solo travel to Barcelona? Then pin this post for later!
Author: Una
Una is the traveler and blogger behind Wandernity blog where she shares her personal adventures around the world and blogging advice.
You can follow her inspiring stories on Facebook as well.
