Tourist vs. local- the debate that determines what cultural experience you will indulge in while traveling. Traveling can be defined as driving down the coast of Florida in your own car or flying across the world to see Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. No matter where the destination might be, travelers are required to figure out and plan a few crucial things. At the beginning of a trip, travelers might ask themselves where they are going to eat, what sights are they going to see or where they are going to stay. But, when it comes to Barcelona and the city’s innate sense of night life, travelers are faced with another question- where to go out at night.

Before diving into the important role that nightlife plays in having a well-rounded experience in Barcelona, it is impossible to ignore the other tourist attractions that thousands of people fly to Barcelona for every year. Barcelona, Spain has attracted tourists for years because of how beautiful the city is- physically, historically and culturally.

“I have come to Barcelona many times and every time has been absolutely perfect. The city has so much to offer and I don’t ever get bored. I love exploring the city because I find something new every time I visit,” said Alexandra Tamames

First of all, Barcelona itself is divided up into neighborhoods- all of which having a different cultural flare. Some of the more popular regions are the Gothic Quarter, Eixample and El Borne. Gothic Quarter attracts those who are interested in an old town vibe and is home to many narrow roads to explore. Eixample is a more modernized neighborhood, known for its architecture and busy roads. El Born is famously home to Las Ramblas- the most popular drag in Barcelona- and is often known as the heart and soul of the city. While these are the most popular areas, there is no harm in exploring areas that are off the beaten path such as Port Olimpic- an area swarmed with many local bars and restaurants.

Second, in terms of architecture, Barcelona is home to Antoni Gaudi’s finest works, for example, Park Guell, Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlo. The architecture alone makes the city naturally beautiful and tourists are encouraged to visit every architectural sight possible- and there are many! These architectural landmarks, all rooted in history, host thousands of tourists every year. Going to Barcelona and not seeing the Sagrada Familia is like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower- some things just can’t be missed regardless of what experience you are trying to have while traveling. However, there are more architectural attractions that make the city beautiful than those you would find on the front of a brochure. Travelers looking for a more local experience can simply walk through the small cobblestone streets and discover the natural magnificence of apartment buildings, sculptures, fountains etc. Just walking around and exploring is a great way to stumble upon some of the city’s most beautiful destinations, all of which make the city perfectly gothic yet modern.

“I recently had my parents come and visit me. They are normally very interested in seeing the biggest tourist attractions so obviously we did that, but they ended up being the most impressed by this little statue we randomly found in Gracia. I think that is the beauty of Barcelona. You can find the most beautiful things even when you are not looking,” said Blake Small.

Third, you can’t go to Barcelona and not indulge in tapas and paella, two of Barcelona’s most prized possessions. Tapas are a Spanish delicacy served in smalls portions for all to enjoy. Tapas are simply the perfect meal regardless of how hungry you are- there is no shame in ordering one dish or eight dishes. Barcelona is loaded with tapas restaurants that attract both locals and visitors. Paella on the other hand requires a more developed pallet. However, if you are willing to enjoy the taste of the water, you can’t miss Barcelona’s paella. It is the perfect meal to taste the Mediterranean. Like with most places, there are famous restaurants when it comes to a country’s delicacies. For example, if you are looking for the world’s best paella, visit Siete Portes. However, there is no harm in wandering the streets and finding a whole in the wall because more often than not, these places are the most underrated and can deliver the best meal you have had in your life.

Finally, you can’t discuss Barcelona’s culture without tackling the subject of nightlife. Like with the overall concept of traveling, going out in Barcelona can be divided up into two sectors- the tourist experience and the local experience.

First off, the touristy places. These places are basically designated for students studying abroad and those who are looking to have a very Americanized experience while partying until the early morning hours. The strip on the beach is the perfect place to find fellow Americans. Places like Opium, Shoko and Pacha are loaded with college aged students who are indulging in the same sort of clubs that they do back home.

“I prefer places like this just because I feel more comfortable. As an American that doesn’t speak Spanish, I feel uncomfortable going to a local bar. A club like Opium is what I am used to and that’s the same with a lot of people I know in Barcelona so I think that is why so many people go,” said Blake Small.

Secondly, the local spots. There are a select group of American tourists willing to explore the hidden gems. Most tourists avoid these spots but these places will ensure a more local experience due to the atmosphere, different drink recipes, the music played etc. This local vibe can be found at places like Apollo or L’Ovella Negra on the weekends- a time when most students studying abroad are traveling.

Barcelona is packed with culture and tourists certainly take advantage of that. However, it is how you take advantage of it that makes the experience worthwhile. Are you going to be one of thousands or are you going have your own experience?