This is a contribution from André Franco of Uniplaces student accommodation.

Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in the world. Whether you are a fan of the famous football team or want to visit the city for Gaudi’s art, Barcelona has many things to offer. As students however, money is usually limited and visiting a new city can be quite costly. This article highlights some of the things you can do in Barcelona on a budget.

A view of Barcelona

More fun with less expense seems like a great deal. So below is a list of the top five things you can do in Barcelona, without spending too much money.

Visit Tibidabo

Tibidabo is really worth the climb to get there, even though the trains, funiculars and city buses also do a great job. The Sagrat Cor Church, which means Sacred Heart in English is a breathtaking monument and also the area on the top of the mountain has an interesting history. Tip: use the elevator to get to the top of the towers of the church and get immersed in the amazing views that you can experience from the observation decks.

After the trip to the church, you can come back down and try out all of the different rides in the amusement park. As for food, if you are on a tight budget bring some food and make a picnic there instead if you are looking for something more romantic. I promise you, you won’t find a better place in Barcelona to take yours truly.

Sagrat Cor, Tibidabo

Relax and have fun at Barceloneta beach

Sol, playa y arena. These are three of the words that appear in most Spanish songs. If you want the Spanish laid back experience, then this is it. Barceloneta beach is perfect for a day in the sun.

There are also plenty of things to do on the beach besides swimming. If you want to spend a bit of money, windsurfing and kite surfing are popular sports. If however, you are in need of a rest, you can just lie down and soak up the warmth of the Spanish sun. I recommend you rent a bike and ride alongside the beach and feel the vibe.

The beach in Barcelona

Get lost in Barrio Gotico

Barrio Gotico or the Gothic neighbourhood is situated in the centre of Barcelona and it represents the medieval part of the city. It has an impressive history that you should know a few things about before visiting as it would make you understand more about it.

Of course we can tell you about the famous museums and monuments in the area, but this is not that type of article. Understanding the Gothic neighbourhood means getting lost through its streets, letting yourself get carried away by the music filling the streets and admiring the architecture of the small, hidden streets. To really enjoy it, it is better to let the place speak to you rather than doing the touristy things with a map in your hand.

Barri Gòtic, Barcelona

A small hike to Montjuïc

Barcelona might be urbanised, however, it has a mountain inside the city. Isn’t it incredible? A beach, a mountain and a city all in one. It’s like when the world was created they decided to make paradise in Barcelona.

Montjuïc is not interesting because it is a mountain. The hike there, that for some might not seem like the most interesting activity, is definitely worth the effort, as the mountain is home to the most famous fountains in Barcelona: Font Màgica (Magic Fountain) and many other things that are best discovered by exploring the surroundings. Spoiler alert: there are lots of artsy things in the area.

A view from Montjuïc, Barcelona

Explore the Els Encants Vells flea market

Some people like to visit monuments and museums, others like the culinary side of travelling, but for some shopping is what they like the most about going to a new country or city. Barcelona is one of the fashion capitals of the world, however, this post is not really about the conventional stuff. It is about the hidden things that make the city special.

Flea markets give you an insight on what people collect, an insight on their culture. Sometimes you might be able to spot an antique worthy of a place at a museum in the mix of trash and treasure. Also, you can see some random oddities worthy of an Instagram photo.

Old Books

Barcelona has many things to offer, you just need to know where to look. You can enjoy a unique experience in the city, by spending little to no money. In addition, by following these tips you will distinguish yourself from the typical tourist and get to know Barcelona close up. Learn a few words in Catalan before you go and you’ll fit right in!

All tourists do the typical things in the city like visiting La Sagrada Família and Casa Mila. However, they are not all that Barcelona has to offer. To truly embrace the city, you need to let it carry you away: with the music, through the streets.

Uniplaces was founded in 2011 by three friends who had the same dream: to help students finding a place to live when they moved to another city or country. It worked out and nowadays Uniplaces has expanded internationally and became one of the key players on the student accommodation market. In Barcelona they offer more than 2000 rooms and flats for students across the city.