What a trip to Barcelona costs in September

Sights

Most attractions are not free, but some are cheaper than you think. Camp Nou, the FC Barcelona stadium, costs €17 per person. You get to see the stands, the changing rooms and the dugout, plus access to the club museum.

Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia cost extra, but the exact amounts are not in our sources. One thing that is important: book Park Güell tickets in advance. Without a reservation, you will stand in line for hours.

Do you want to go beyond the big attractions? Platja del Bogatell is a nicer beach than the crowded Barceloneta Beach. The Ramblas? Touristy, with bad restaurants and higher prices. Better to avoid it.

• •Book Park Güell online in advance: don't wait until the day itself.
• •The Camp Nou tour (€17) is well priced for what you see.

Food and drink

Eat where the Barcelonians eat: in small tapas bars in the Gothic Quarter. That costs little and tastes much better than in tourist spots.

The Ramblas is tempting, but the restaurants there are expensive and mediocre. Save your money and your stomach by walking past. In the narrow streets around it, you will find the same tapas for less money and better quality.

• •Small tapas bars in the Gothic Quarter: cheap and authentic.
• •Avoid the Ramblas: expensive restaurants, poor quality.

Transport

Renting a bike is very cheap and available in many places around the city. It's the best way to discover Barcelona: you're fast, flexible and see much more than from a bus.

Cycle along the boulevard to the beach, or head towards the quiet spots that tourists miss. You can also book a guided bike tour if you'd rather not go alone. In September it is warm, but no longer unbearable: ideal cycling weather.

• •Rent a bike: it's cheap and you discover much more.
• •Cycle along the coast towards the beach; much nicer than walking.