Maximizing Your Study Abroad Experience in Barcelona: Tips, Advice, and Favorite Places

By: Meredith Black

Studying abroad in Barcelona has been the best experience of my life, but it’s really easy to feel overwhelmed by everything this incredible city has to offer. As a CIEE ambassador here, I’ve had the chance to not only dive into my studies but also fully immerse myself in the culture, and I want to share some of my best tips and favorite spots to help you get the most out of your time here. I’m here to share my experiences and advice, as well as tips beyond the traditional Barcelona tourist guide.

1. Use Public Transportation Wisely

Barcelona has an excellent public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and trams, all of which are relatively affordable and easy to use. Get a T-Usual card (30 days unlimited rides for roughly 22 euros) or make an appointment to get approved for the 90-day pass. I use public transit every day! It is a great way to get around and explore the city. 

2. Take Day Trips to the Surrounding Areas

Barcelona is an excellent base for exploring other parts of Catalonia and beyond. On weekends or long breaks, consider taking day trips to places like Montserrat (a beautiful mountain range and monastery), Sitges (a coastal town known for its beaches and festivals), or Tarragona (an ancient Roman city with stunning ruins). If you’re feeling adventurous, Costa Brava, just a couple of hours away, offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. 

3. Take Classes Specific to Spanish Culture

I’m in two classes related to Spanish history and culture and it has definitely enhanced my experience and has made me feel more connected to Barcelona. I’m in Catalonia and Spain through the Arts, which essentially teaches Spanish art history. The best part about this class is learning about all the amazing works that I see in my daily life (like walking to class). We also have had many fun fieldtrips including a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter, tour of the Catalonia Art Museum, and Palau Guell. I’m also in a Spanish Culture and Cuisine class that has been my favorite. We have had many field trips as well including a cooking class, wine tasting, vermouth making class, Casa Amatller tour, etc...

4. Experience the Festivals

Barcelona is known for its vibrant festivals and local celebrations, and they’re a fantastic way to experience the city’s culture first-hand. If you’re here in the fall, don't miss La Mercè, the city's annual festival with parades, fireworks, music, and even human towers (castells). I was in Barcelona this weekend and it was one of my favorites!

5. Escape the Crowds: Best Beaches Near Barcelona

Barcelona’s Barceloneta Beach is famous for its lively atmosphere, beach bars, and stunning views of the Mediterranean—but it can get a bit crowded, especially during the summer months and early fall. If you're looking for a quieter, more peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the sun, there are plenty of beautiful beaches just a short distance away from the city center. My favorites were Ocata Beach, Badalona, and Playa de la Mar Bella. 

6. Embrace Solo Travel and Adventures

My biggest takeaway from my abroad experience so far is that sometimes the best experiences are the ones you create for yourself. My biggest advice to anyone who’s been hesitant about traveling alone is this: Don’t wait to do the things you’ve always wanted to do just because there’s no one to join you. Whether it’s taking a solo trip abroad, trying out a new hobby, or exploring your own city, don’t let the absence of a travel buddy hold you back. Traveling solo isn’t about being alone—it’s about giving yourself the freedom to experience the world on your own terms. In early October, I took my first solo trip to Split, Croatia. One of the biggest takeaways from my solo trip to Split was realizing how much freedom I had to do exactly what I wanted. There were no compromises. If I felt like exploring a hidden beach for a few hours, I could do that. If I wanted to spend the entire day at a museum or take a slow walk through the city’s historic center, I could do that too. The whole experience taught me that you don’t need a companion to enjoy something—you can embrace the things that bring you joy on your own.

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