A British expat in Spain has shared the dos and don'ts of visiting one of the country's most popular tourist cities. Anna, who runs the TikTok account @annainbarcelona, regularly posts advice for holidaymakers and newcomers navigating life in the Catalan capital. One of her videos, viewed by hundreds of thousands, highlights common mistakes tourists make when visiting Barcelona. As Spain continues to grapple with overtourism, visitors are encouraged to travel responsibly and respect local customs. Here are five things Anna says visitors should never do.
Don't Bring Heels
Barcelona may be known for its stunning architecture and lively nightlife, but Anna says high heels are one item tourists should leave at home. Instead, she recommends packing comfortable footwear, as visitors are likely to spend hours exploring on foot. With cobbled streets and long walks between attractions, practical shoes are far more useful than fashionable heels.
Don't Eat or Drink on La Rambla
La Rambla is Barcelona's most famous street, but Anna warns tourists against stopping there for food and drinks. According to the expat, visitors can expect to pay significantly more for meals that are often lower quality than those available elsewhere. She also notes that the busy tourist hotspot is particularly attractive to pickpockets.
Never Put Your Phone in Your Pocket
Barcelona has long battled a reputation for pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas like around La Sagrada Familia. Anna advises never to keep your phone in your pocket. Instead, she recommends using a cross-body bag or bum bag to keep valuables secure.
Don't Go to Dinner Without a Reservation
Barcelona attracts millions of tourists every year, and restaurants can fill up quickly, especially during summer. Anna says visitors should always reserve a table in advance if they have a specific restaurant in mind. Failing to book ahead could mean missing out on popular dining spots.
Don't Only Rely on Taxis
While taxis can be useful late at night, Anna says tourists should make the most of Barcelona's extensive public transport network. The metro and bus services provide easy access to most attractions and are significantly cheaper. She recommends purchasing a T-Casual travel pass, which offers 10 journeys for around €12. On Fridays, the metro operates until 2am, and on Saturdays, services run throughout the night. Night buses are also available during the week.
