Barcelona is a vibrant city that attracts millions of tourists every year. It is known for its stunning architecture, delicious food, and lively culture.
However, like any other city, there are certain things that you should avoid doing in Barcelona to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. In this article, we’ll discuss the top things you should not do in Barcelona.
Don’t Be a Victim of Pickpocketing
Barcelona has unfortunately gained a reputation for pickpocketing. The most common places where pickpocketing occurs are crowded tourist areas such as La Rambla and the metro stations. To avoid becoming a victim of pickpocketing, you should keep your valuables close to your body at all times, avoid carrying large sums of cash, and be aware of your surroundings.
Don’t Book Accommodation in Sketchy Neighborhoods
While Barcelona has many great neighborhoods to stay in, there are also some areas that are best avoided due to safety concerns. El Raval and El Gotic are two neighborhoods that have high crime rates and should be avoided by tourists. When booking accommodation, ensure that you research the area thoroughly beforehand.
Don’t Ignore Local Customs
Barcelona has its own unique culture with its own set of customs and traditions. It’s important to respect these customs as a tourist visiting the city.
For example, it’s considered rude to wear beachwear or shorts when entering churches or other religious sites. Additionally, it’s important to greet locals with “Hola” or “Buenos días” as a sign of respect.
Don’t Expect Dinner Before 9 pm
In Barcelona, dinner is typically eaten later than in other parts of Europe. While restaurants may open at 8 pm or earlier for dinner service, locals tend to eat closer to 9 pm or later. If you’re looking for an early dinner, opt for tapas or other small plates instead.
Don’t Forget to Validate Your Metro Ticket
If you plan on using the metro to get around Barcelona, it’s important to remember to validate your ticket before boarding. Failure to do so can result in a hefty fine if caught by a ticket inspector. Additionally, it’s important to keep your ticket with you at all times while using the metro.
Don’t Expect Everything to be Open on Sundays
Sundays in Barcelona are typically a day of rest, and many shops and restaurants may be closed. It’s important to plan accordingly if you need something specific on a Sunday, as it may not be available.
Don’t Be Disrespectful of Local Customs and Traditions
Barcelona is a city with its own unique customs and traditions. It’s important as a tourist to respect these customs and not engage in behavior that may be considered disrespectful. For example, it’s not appropriate to wear “I Love BCN” t-shirts or other merchandise with the Catalan flag on them if you don’t fully understand the political implications of doing so.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Barcelona is a beautiful city with plenty to offer tourists. However, it’s important to be aware of certain things you should avoid doing while visiting the city. By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip free from any unnecessary mishaps or complications.