Barcelona, Spain’s second-largest and most visited city, is absolutely the best destination for anyone excited about studying abroad, even if you are an experienced globe-trotter.
World-class artists, amazing food, vibrant nightlife, sun-soaked beaches, and perfect weather … the city has it all, making it quite easy to fall in love with it.
Attending a Spanish class Barcelona will open up a whole new world of possibilities for your personal and professional life. The city has dozens upon dozens of Spanish summer schools that offer intensive programs for serious students, with an emphasis on learning to speak Spanish classes and giving you an authentic travel experience.
Here is a list of 10 important tips you need to know before going to study abroad in Barcelona.
1. Barcelona has two official languages
One of the advantages of learning Spanish in Spain, especially in Barcelona, is that you will gain exposure to another accent — since Catalan is also the local independent language (not a Spanish dialect, as is often assumed by many visitors).
In Spain, about 28 per cent of the population live in regions with Catalan as the official language, and all those regions have a distinct heritage and culture. In fact, you should also consider taking Catalan classes; the language’s history is quite rich and interesting.
Although Catalans speak Spanish too (the two are official Barcelona languages), if you want to earn some points with locals you may want to learn to greet appropriately, as they are very happy about greeting in Catalan. For example, you can start by saying ‘Bon dia‘, which means good morning in Catalan, and be aware that it is customary to kiss each other on each cheek as a greeting, most commonly between women.
2. Locals are very open-minded
Barcelona is one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. The diversity of the people and its cultural values is amazing. So, it’s important to be open-minded about every person you meet during your first interaction with the locals.
There is no more rewarding experience than getting to know people from the area and hearing about their history and traditions.
Those students with a closed mindset are less likely to meet new people. Open-minded people, on the other hand, are more curious, creative, and motivated to explore the world and engage with its possibilities.
3. It has perfect weather any time of the year
Barcelona is attractive for many reasons, but the good weather is one of its main advantages. Due to its geographical location, on the northeastern Mediterranean coast of Spain, the city enjoys moderate temperatures all year round.
Also, the proximity of the Mediterranean Sea makes the summers less dry and it barely rains, so do not worry about cloudy days! However, occasional storms are possible between August and October.
4. There is more than the famous Sagrada Familia Cathedral
Of course, Gaudi’s majestic masterpiece is absolutely breathtaking and is a must when visiting Barcelona. However, the city has a world-class selection of other historic buildings and attractions (outdoor traditional markets, parks, museums, art galleries, restaurants, and shops), and is fantastic for walking, with a vast and reliable Metro system. Though it can be a little overwhelming and confusing at first, once you get the knack of it you will be able to get everywhere and anywhere.
5. Barcelona is one of the world’s leading tourist destinations
Barcelona has 20 tourists for every resident, so it might be a little crowded (especially during high season) and also more expensive than other parts of Spain. However, if you budget accordingly the cost of living may still be manageable.
If you are planning on visiting the most famous landmarks and attractions of the city, you should plan your visit in advance to avoid the crowds. There are some great options to skip the queues and avoid the hassle. For instance, you can buy your tickets online and go early in the morning to guarantee your spot.
6. You can use your student ID card
Thanks to the discounts provided by a student ID, you will have some savings on delicious dishes, stunning architecture, and culture.
When travelling to Barcelona for a Spanish course in Spain, do not leave your student card at home and remember to take advantage of all the discount opportunities available.
7. You can enjoy sports without spending any money
Barcelona has a whole range of public facilities for enjoying sports for free (or on a tight budget). You can go running or cycling, in the many green spaces, parks and circuits.
On the other hand, there are many spaces for doing action sports, such as skating or action tennis, and if you like taking to the sand, on all the city’s beaches you will find at least one net for playing beach volleyball with your friends when you are not busy with your school hours in Spain.
8. It’s more affordable compared to other European destinations
Compared to other cities, Barcelona is not expensive at all. If your budget is really tight there are decent bars and restaurants that make good and healthy food and stay open until late.
Keep in mind that if you go along Las Ramblas, a super-touristy area, you will be charged a bit more. Everything is overpriced there and the quality of restaurants is not that good either.
9. You need to get used to the Siesta tradition
A siesta is a short nap taken in the early afternoon, after the midday meal, when everything shuts down (from approximately 2 p.m. until 5 p.m.).
The siesta tradition is one of the most notable aspects of Spanish life, and locals take it very seriously. However, most big supermarkets, department stores and cafes stay open during the whole afternoon, so if you can not embrace this culture, it can be a good time to go shopping, as most people will still stay away.
10. There are plenty of beaches for all tastes
In Barcelona, there is a beach for everyone. Whether you prefer to lie down and enjoy the sun with an ice-cold cocktail or are more into beach games (volleyball, tennis) or maybe water sports, you should be able to spend a whole day at the seaside doing just what you enjoy
The most popular beaches among visitors include Barceloneta (really close to the city centre), Mar Bella, Nova Icaria and Bogatell.
We wish you a fabulous learning experience!
