Best San Sebastian Cheesecake in Spain

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Planning notes for Barcelona

Must-try foods in Barcelona

• Fideuà
  FideuàOften described as the local alternative to paella, this dish uses short, thin toasted noodles (fideus) instead of rice. It is cooked in a shallow pan with a rich fish and shellfish stock, typically featuring monkfish, squid, and prawns. It is almost always served with a side of thick, handmade alioli to stir into the noodles.
• Escalivada
  EscalivadaA traditional Catalan salad of smoky, fire-roasted vegetables—typically eggplant, red bell peppers, and onions. After roasting until tender, the vegetables are peeled, sliced into strips, and dressed with olive oil and salt. In September 2026, you'll find it featured prominently as a seasonal side or topped with salt-cured anchovies.
• Arròs Negre (Black Rice)
  Arròs Negre (Black Rice)A dramatic and intensely flavorful rice dish colored with natural cephalopod ink. It is typically prepared with cuttlefish or squid and served with a dollop of garlic alioli. While paella is available, locals often prefer this 'black' version for its deeper, briny Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Canelons (Catalan Cannelloni)
  Canelons (Catalan Cannelloni)Unlike the Italian version, Catalan cannelloni are typically stuffed with a fine paste of roasted meats (often leftovers from a Sunday roast) and topped with a velvety Béchamel sauce and melted cheese. While traditionally a Christmas dish, iconic spots like Can Culleretes (Barcelona's oldest restaurant) serve them year-round due to local demand.
• Suquet de Peix
  Suquet de PeixA traditional fisherman’s stew that has evolved into a sophisticated restaurant staple. It features a variety of fresh Mediterranean fish and potatoes simmered in a light, aromatic broth thickened with a 'picada' (a paste of fried bread, nuts, and garlic). It is the ultimate 'surf' comfort food found in the seaside barrios.
• Esqueixada de Bacallà
  Esqueixada de BacallàA refreshing 'shredded' salad made with raw salt cod that has been desalted and hand-torn. It is mixed with chopped tomatoes, onions, olives, and plenty of olive oil. It is a favorite light lunch during the warm September days when locals want something cool but protein-rich.

Trip guide

• About Barcelona
  About BarcelonaBarcelona was founded as the Roman colony of Barcino around 10 BC, and evidence of this period remains visible in the city's ancient walls and the columns of the Temple of Augustus. In 2026, the city is designated as the World Capital of Architecture by UNESCO-UIA, hosting over 1,500 activities and 200 projects to highlight its built environment.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Barcelona is during the shoulder seasons of May to June or September to October, when you can enjoy pleasant temperatures in the 70s°F (20-25°C) and participate in major local festivals. Summer (July and August) is the peak tourist season, bringing intense humidity, high prices, and heavy crowds, while winter offers a budget-friendly off-peak experience with mild.
• Getting around
  Getting around Barcelona

  • Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) As the primary international gateway, the airport is located 15km southwest of the city center and is efficiently connected via the Aerobús shuttle, the R2 Nord suburban train line, and the L9 Sud metro line.
  • Barcelona Metro and TMB Bus Network The extensive underground metro system and comprehensive bus network provide seamless city-wide coverage; using an integrated T-usual or T-casual travel card allows for affordable transfers between all public transport.
  • AVE High-Speed Rail (Barcelona Sants) Barcelona Sants is the main railway hub connecting the city to Madrid, France, and other Spanish regions via high-speed AVE trains, offering a fast and sustainable alternative to regional air travel.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Validate your transport tickets immediately upon boarding and keep them accessible for inspections to avoid heavy fines.
  • Keep your belongings in front of you and stay vigilant in crowded tourist areas like La Rambla to prevent pickpocketing.
  • Request the bill at restaurants when you are ready to leave, as servers consider it impolite to bring it unprompted.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Barcelona

  • La Mercè Festival: Barcelona's largest annual street festival (September 23–27, 2026) featuring 'castellers' (human towers), fire runs, and free outdoor concerts across the city.
  • Barcelona World Capital of Architecture 2026: A year-long celebration currently featuring city-wide exhibitions, open-house events.