Book cheap flights to Barcelona

Wait for the summer crowds to disperse and book your trip to Barcelona during the shoulder seasons, occurring from April to June, and between September and October. The mild, sunny days and cool nights will make your sightseeing experience very enjoyable. The peak summer months of July and August see temperatures spike and humidity levels rise, making outside activities a little uncomfortable. Should you find yourself in Barcelona during February and March, you can catch the Mardi-Gras carnival celebrating the ‘Arrival of the King’. Music lovers can catch the electronic music festival, featuring world-famous DJs, lighting up the summer sky in June.

South African passport holders do need a Schengen visa to visit Barcelona and the rest of Spain.

Passports may not be older than 10 years, must have 2 blank pages and be valid for at least 3 months beyond your date of departure from the Schengen state.

See this guide on how to apply for your Schengen visa.

The South African Honorary Consulate General in Barcelona is available at the following address:

Parc Empresarial Mas Blau II

Alta Ribagorza 6-8

08020 Prat de Llobregat

TEL: ( 34) 93 506 9100

Barcelona is a beautiful city, but unfortunately, an all too common place for robbing unsuspecting tourists. Be aware of your surroundings at ALL times. Do not let your guard down, especially when in a crowded area. Train stations and busy streets are prime hotspots for thieves to make their mark. Recent scams include a group of youngsters engaging you in a street game of football or impromptu samba dancing and while you’re distracted, they’re helping themselves to your belongings. Do not carry large amounts of cash or flash expensive items around and leave your passport safely locked away in your hotel room. When in a restaurant, keep bags on your lap or between your legs on the floor.

Be wary of engaging in conversation when approached by strangers, and ensure items are securely stored in a closed bag. The crowded area of La Rambla should be avoided at night if travelling solo. Just keep an eye out, take the usual precautions and you’ll be perfectly safe to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city at any time.

No matter what your taste or budget, the city has plenty of options for an unforgettable stay! There are four main areas frequented by holidaymakers. For an authentic downtown experience, consider a hotel near the central square of Plaza Catalunya, situated in close proximity to main attractions, great shopping spots and transport stops.

For a more stylish experience, the 19th century Eixample neighbourhood resembles a fusion of new and old with its historic Gothic buildings and modernist architecture sprinkled between trendy coffee shops and restaurants.

The edgy district of Ciutat Vella provides the more discerning traveller with an historic experience of this Gothic city with its architecture and narrow, cobbled streets lined with boutiques, cafés, museums and markets.

If you wish to be near the beaches, the Sant Marti district is home to some popular hi-tech neighbourhoods. This area gets especially busy during the summer months, so be sure to book well in advance!

Barcelona has an extensive public transport system, serving both locals and tourists. The metro and bus networks run throughout the city and are a much cheaper way to get around, compared to taxis. The most economical ticket is the T10, costing €10, giving you access to buses, the metro, trams and the Montjuïc funicular. Train routes operate until midnight, while night buses are available well into the morning should you stay out later.

Taxis are easily available 24 hours a day and the average cost of a journey around town is €9. Should you require a taxi from a restaurant, the staff will call one for you. As in any European city, the best way to take in the sights and atmosphere is by walking around and diving into the hidden shops and cafés tucked away behind cobbled alleyways.