Welcome to ______4

About Barcelona ______6 Language ______6 People ______6 Weather ______6 Pick-pocketing ______6 Cousine ______6 Ariving to Barcelona ______7 Airport Transport ______8 Accomodation in Barcelona ______10 Hostels ______10 Where to look for flat ______11 Districts of Barcelona and flat prices ______11 Transportation ______14 Metro ______14

Barcelona nightlife ______15

Barcelona parties and Shaz List ______16 Pacha Barcelona ______17 Shoko Barcelona ______17 Opium Mar Barcelona ______18 W Hotel Barcelona / Eclipse Barcelona ______18 Danzatoria ______19 Bling Bling ______19 Jamboree Barcelona ______20

Attractions – Sightseeings and beaches ______21

Free Museums and Gallaries ______22 Must see in Barcelona ______23 La Sagrada Familia ______23 ______23 Parc de Ciutadella ______23 Magic Fountain ______24 ______24 Casa Batlló ______24 Torre Agbar ______24 Barcelona Beaches ______25 Barceloneta ______26 Icària Beach ______26 Bogatell ______27 Marbella Beach ______27 Off The Beaten Track! ______28

Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 2 Trips with Erasmus Barcelona ______29

Carnival in Sitges in February/March ______30 Las Fallas in Valencia in March ______30 Ibiza in May ______30 Bull Race in Pamplona in July ______31 Tomatina Festival ______31 Wine Tasting in Tarragona ______31 PortAdventura ______32 Tossa de Mar ______32 Fiestas de Pilar in Lleida and Zaragoza ______32 Cadaques, Sant Pere de Rodes, Port-Lligat ______33 Madrid, Toledo, Sigüenza ______33 Figueres, Girona ______33 The Mountain of Montserrat ______34 Los Pireneos, Besalú, and Castellfollt de la Roca ______34 South of France ______34 Skiing in Andorra ______35

Cultural activities ______36

Erasmus meetings ______37 Erasmus picnics ______37 Walking around Barcelona ______38

Learn Spanish ______39

Language exchange meetings ______40 Spanish schools ______40 International House ______41 Oxford House Barcelona ______41

National Events in Barcelona ______42

Festival de Sant Medir de Gràcia ______43 Sant Jordi (April 23) ______43 Corpus Cristi - L’ou com Balla (June) ______43 Festa Major de Gràcia ______44 Catalan National Day (September 11) ______44 La Mercè (September) ______44

Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 3 WELCOME TO BARCELONA

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 4 ERASMUS BARCELONA WELCOME PACK

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 5 ABOUT BARCELONA Barcelona is the biggest city in after Madrid. It is situated in the region of . It belongs to Spain, but everything is a little bit different here :-) It is a great city that has everything, the apogee of any Erasmus-student desires!

For those who like culture there are museums, history, archi- tecture, theatres and so much more! And if you like to party, you won’t find a better city than Barcelona, that’s for sure! Great clubs, millions of bar, restaurants, festivals…! Here you will have the best time of your life! With this guide, we will make sure that you enjoy your stay in Barcelona!

Here are some general tips to keep in mind when visiting (and living in!) Barcelona.

Language People Weather

Catalan is the official language In general, Barcelona people Most days are sunny and dry, spoken in Catalonia; howev- are nice and open-minded! On but be prepared for the occa- er, all locals speak Spanish as the other hand, you should not sional rainstorm. well. Do not be afraid to try to be surprised if they do not say Winters here are mild but it still speak to the locals; they will thank you or if they are a little gets chilly so be prepared. understand you. bit rude from time to time ;-) They have a special tempera- Pick-pocketing ment… Special Catalans! Keep your belongings close to Luckly, this is a very interna- your body and leave anything tional city and you will meet you don’t need at your flat people from all over the world Wear your backpack on your front to prevent robbery

Cuisine

La Rambla is strictly for strolling –avoid it’s Over-priced restau- rant and cafes, and above it all, avoid its terraces; a Coke will cost you the same as a small handbag and beer only comes in ‘Tourist’ size (about a liter).

The best places in the center to pick up picnic food are La Bo- queria market (on Las Ramblas) and the Mercat Santa Caterina (in el Born).

Spanich people tend to tip very little at Restaurants and they rarely tip cab-drivers.

You should definitely try typical Spanish food like: tapas, san- gria, paella, tortilla, jamon, churros, gazpacho, crema catalana... Yummy!

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 6 ARRIVING TO BARCELONA We recommend you to start planning your trip/semester in Barcelona as soon as you can, so that you can save some money ;)

There are several websites that have cheap flightS. It is cheaper to book your flights together rather than separately. The earlier you book your flights, the cheaper it will be. Some companies offer a service called “Ticket Flex“; for around 8€, you can change your flight!

You should use the airport closest to Barcelona – Barcelona, El Prat (BCN), located approximate- ly 30 minutes outside of city. You can also use the airport of Girona, a city that is around 2 hours away from Barcelona. Flights are usually cheaper from/to Girona.

See below the most known websites, where you can look for your flight to Barcelona.

http://www.vueling.com

http://www.fluege.com

http://www.fly.com/uk/

http://www.ryanair.com

http://www.wizzair.com

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 7 AIRPORT TRANSPORT

There are many options how to get from the airport to the city center. we are offering you two differ- ent options:

Barcelona Airport to City Center (up to 8 people) Transfer for groups up to 8 people from El Prat Airport to anywhere in Barcelona City Center (up to 25 km).

Barcelona Airport to City Center (up to 50 people) Bus Transfer for groups up to 35 and 50 people from Barcelona El Prat Airport to anywhere in Barcelona City Center (up to 25 km).

TESTIMONIALS

‘‘It was really nice to have a car waiting for me at the airport when I arrived in Barcelona. The driver was punctual and really nice. On the way to the hotel he introduce me to the city and give me some tips. I would definitely recommend you this company’s service!’’ Luca I., Italy ‘‘Excellent service! Online booking of a transportation is definitely a plus. The pickup and dropoff was at the time as arranged.’’ Andreia C., Portugal ‘‘I visited this beautiful city of Spain with my classmates. Booking a bus for all the students was re- ally easy with this company. There were no complications and the bus was already waiting when we arrived. Drop off directly in front of the hostel!’’ Marija H., Serbia

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 8 There are also some other options how to get to the city center from airport:

Aerobus Airport El Prat (T1) – Placa de Catalunya Every 5 minutes Costs around 6€

Train El Prat – Clot/Passeig de Gracia/Barcelona Sants (Sants Estacio) Every 30 minutes Costs around 2€

Metro Doesn’t go directly from El Prat, has to be combined with train/bus. Hard with luggage Costs around 2€

Cab It picks you up directly in front of Terminal and drops you off wherever you want. A bit more expensive, but very comfortable. Costs around 20-40€ (to the city center)

Alsa The biggest bus company in Spain. It connects all of the cities of Spain and also you can go abroad with Alsa. In the section titled “offers” you can find special discounts for your travel.

Bla Bla Car Operates also in Spain. Thanks to that company you can travel for low prices and also get to know some local Spanish people.

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 9 Accommodation in Barcelona

HOSTELS

GET DISCOUND IN HOSTELS WITH SHAZ LIST !!!

We now offer Shaz’s List with hostels! The following hostels have partnered with us to give you discounts! When you decide to book a room, simply call/email them and say that you would like to sign up with Shaz’s list!

How easy is that?

Hostel Partners

BE RAMBLAS [email protected] 15% discount

TWENTYTU [email protected] Group discounts (12+ people)

HOLA HOSTAL EIXAMPLE [email protected] 10% discount

BE MAR HOSTEL [email protected] 15% discount

CASA KESSLER BARCELONA [email protected] 15% discount

Group discount (10+ people) RESIDENCIA SANTS [email protected] Short term stay discount

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 10 WHERE TO LOOK FOR FLAT?

Bedrooms in Barcelona cost around €300-€400 per month, but you can find cheaper! We definitely recommend you facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/the.erasmus.barcelona) to search for rooms because there are a lot of students who are looking for roommate.

We also recomend you to check Uniplaces (http://uniplaces.7eer.net/c/170721/206497/3534). There you can find and book accommodation and get 20% discount using our promo code.

Districts of Barcelona and flat prices

Ciutat Vella (Old City)

The oldest part of city, which is generally regard- ed as the historical and cultural heart of Barce- lona. Full of restaurants, bars, museums, shops. is divided into four smaller parts:

Barceloneta: called also the old fisherman’s quarter. This part is interconnecting with Old Port- and most common beaches. There you can find one of the best fish restau- rants. Apartments were building for fishermen so they are really small. We don’t recommend rent- ing flat in Barceloneta if you have claustrophobia.

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 11 El Ravel: used to be treated as the most dangerous part of city now is the most artistic part. Full of musicians, designers and young painters. You can find there many small and charming bars, each of them has own special atmosphere.

Barrio Gótico: the most touristic part so in the same times the noisiest one. In this site, you find most of historical monuments and famous Plaça Reial.

El Borne: exclusive part of Old City. El Borne is the most sought after part of Barcelona to live. Per- fect for shopping lovers. Streets here are full of boutiques and good restaurants.

Prices: around 500-700 euro for two bedrooms apartment Location: Centre of Barcelona, near the harbour Recommended for people who: love active social life, want to be close to beach and clubs, don’t care about crowed streets and noise

L’Eixample

The district built in second part of XIX century. Streets are not so narrow like in La Ciutat Vel- la neighborhood but they are wide and spatial. Flats also are bigger with more light inside. In L’Eixample you can find buildings of famous ar- chitect Antoni Gaudi. There are all facilities that you need: supermarkets, University, restaurants and good clubs ;)

Prices: around 500-700 euro for two bedrooms apartment Location: North of Barcelona’s old town Recommended for people who: want to be close to city center but prefer more free spaces, like night and cultural life

Gràcia

Used to be separate small town but now it is a part of Barcelona. Even if it’s a little bit far from the city center, there are buses and metro sta- tions, which allow you to reach all parts of Bar- celona. Gràcia is calm place, full of small and charming bars. There are mix of old and new buildings.

Prices: around 450-600 euro for two bedrooms apartment Location: Northern section of Barcelona Recommended for people who: prefer calm neighborhood and don’t need to be close to the city center

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 12 Sants-Montjuïc

Home to Olympic facilities, the Parc de Mont- juïc, old fortifications and botanic garden. Even if there are many tourist attractions, you will not feel the crowd. In this district, you can find many green and calm places, where you can escape from City Center and just relax. Even if Sants Montjuïc has access to sea, you cannot go there to beach. All space is occupied by Port.

Prices: around 500-700 euro for two bedrooms apartment Location: South-west of the city centre Recommended for people who: love green places, like to have contact with nature and sporty

Sant Martí

Paradise for surfers, kite boarders and swim- mers. Easy access to the best beaches in Bar- celona. Sant Marti is home to Barcelona Olympic Village. Easily you can find there supermarkets, bars, good restaurants.

Prices: around 400-600 euro for two bedrooms apartment Location: North-east of the centre, by the sea Recommended for people who: love water sport, prefer cheaper accommodations

Types of rooms

Without window We do not recommend renting a room without windows… However, these type of bedrooms can be very very cheap.

Interior Has window(s) looking out onto a patio or ter- race; has the advantage of being quiet but can be dark and too warm during the summer.

Exterior Has window(s) overlooking the street; We highly recommend this type of room. They can be a bit expensive, also depending on the neighborhood.

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 13 TRANSPORTation

Metro

Hours of operation: 5:00 AM – 24:00 PM (On public holidays and Saturdays the metro runs all night) http://www.tmb.cat/en/home

Below you can find the list of types of tickets with their prices and duration. The best choice is T-Jove.

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 14 barcelOna nightlife

Welcome to Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 15 BARCELONA PARTIES AND SHAZ LIST

In Barcelona you can party all day long, every day of the week! There are so many good parties every night and so many different clubs and bars for every taste! You have the more elegant and modern clubs like Opium Mar, Pacha, Bling Bling, Eclipse (W Hotel), Shoko and Hyde Club but also many other clubs like Apolo, Razzmatazz and Bikini! If you want to get free into every party I recommend you use the guest list of Shaz Diaz! You just contact him on Facebook, write your name on the list and get free entrance!! There is no better way to enjoy all of those great clubs for free! To apply for SHAZ GUEST LIST, take a look on our web page: www.barcelonaparties.com or call/write on whatsapp: 0034 66 33 62 087 Facebook: www.shaz.me

Barcelona Nightlife | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 16 Pacha Barcelona

Pacha Barcelona has the best Ibizan style club located off the Mediterranean Sea beachfront. When I say the energy literally vibrates off your chest, it really does. The second you walk down the stairs the whole club is decorated in pearl white glamour. With the massive dance floor, you can see the Dj at all areas at his elevated loca- tion. You can sit and relax or continue the party, but the Ibizan appearance continues to flow out onto the terrace, so you never lose the vibe of the club. If you want the best of the best commercial and latin music then Pacha is there place to be.

Address: Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta, 38, 08003 Station: Ciutadella Vila Olimpica (L4)

Ambience: Elegant; Sophisticated; Internation- al; 23-35 years old public Dress code: Smart and elegant! Sporty clothes are not allowed.

Entrance: With SHAZ GUEST LIST, you can access PACHA for FREE (free until 1:00am on weekends and until 1:30am on weekdays. ) Shoko Barcelona Just say you’re in SHAZ LIST at the door. Located right next to Opium, in Barceloneta Beach, Shoko is one of the most beautiful clubs of Barcelona. Decorated in an elegant Asian style, with huge bamboo canes and vast chan- deliers, this venue is also a splendid restaurant. Here you can enjoy delicious plates of fusion food (Asian with a Mediterranean touch!) right next to the beach, and stay for the party after! Shoko’s DJS will make you dance to the best commercial and house hits all night long! A must!

Address: Passeig Marítim Barceloneta, 36, 08003 Barcelona Metro Station: Ciutadella Vila Olimpica (L4)

Ambience: Elegant; Sophisticated; Internation- al; 23-35 years old public Dress code: strict. Dress to impress! Casual clothes are not allowed.

Entrance: With SHAZ GUEST LIST, you can ac- cess SHOKO for FREE till 02:00. Just say you’re inSHAZ LIST at the door.

Barcelona Nightlife | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 17 Opium Mar Barcelona

Opium is the most popular and fabulous club of Barcelona! Located in Vila Olimpica, in an area of classy venues, this club will delight you at first sight: with a modern elegant decoration, huge white so- fas, terraces with a direct exit to the Barcelona beach, and a fancy international environment, it is impossible not to love it! Opium has one huge dance floor, where well-known DJS play the best hits and professional dancers warm up the atmo- sphere. Open till dawn, this is the perfect place to party hard, like a rock star! You will be impressed!

Address: Passeig Marítim Barceloneta, 34, 08003 Metro Station: Ciutadella Vila Olimpica (L4)

Ambience: Elegant; Sophisticated; Internation- al; 23-35 years old public Dress code: Very strict. Dress to impress! Casu- al clothes are not allowed.

Entrance: With SHAZ GUEST LIST, you can access OPIUM MAR for FREE (JULY AND AU- GUST till 01:30, and the rest of the year till 02:30!) Just say you’re in SHAZ LIST at the door.

W Hotel Barcelona/Eclipse Barcelona

This beautiful hotel, situated in Barceloneta Beach, has a known cocktail bar that you must visit during your staying - Eclipse, in the 26th floor, has an overwhelming view to the beach line that will take your breath away! Come by and enjoy a delicious cocktail or a glass of cava while listening to relaxing house music. Perfect to start the evening!

Address: Plaza de la Rosa dels Vents, 1 pl. 26 Barcelona Metro Station: Barceloneta

Ambience: Chic; Elegant; Relaxed; +23 years old public Dress code: very strict. Dress to impress! Casu- al clothes are not allowed.

Entrance: With SHAZ GUEST LIST, you can ac- cess ECLIPSE for FREE till 01:30. Just say you’re inSHAZ LIST at the door.

Barcelona Nightlife | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 18 Danzatoria

With two floors of unstopped groove, Danzatoria, located in Vila Olimpica, is one of the most ele- gant and fun venues of Barcelona! Downstairs you will find a large dance floor with remarkable VIP areas and several bars around, where the best commercial music will play all night long! Upstairs, with a more chill-out vibe, there’s a smaller dance floor, perfect for those who love to dance to the finest hip hop and R&B! Best par- ties are hosted every Friday and Saturday.

Address: Passeig Marítim Barceloneta, 36, 08003 Barcelona Metro Station: Ciutadella Vila Olimpica (L4)

Ambience: Elegant; Groovy; International; 23- 35 years old public Dress code: strict. Dress to impress! Casual clothes are not allowed.

Entrance: With SHAZ GUEST LIST, you can ac- cess DANZATORIA for FREE till 02:00. Just say you’re in SHAZ LIST at the door.

Bling Bling

Located right next to and the beautiful Gràcia neighborhood, there’s Bling Bling Barcelona, a high class night club, beauti- fully decorated, where every Thursday the party is guaranteed! In the small dancefloor the most fancy Hip Hop and R&B party takes place – you can’t miss it for anything! If you like upscale ven- ues and the idea of partying with national and international crowd, Bling Bling is the best option, with the greatest VIP area in town!

Address: Tuset 10, 08006, Barcelona Metro Station: Diagonal (L3, L5)

Ambience: Fancy; International; Fashionable 23-35 years old public Dress code: strict. Dress to impress! Casual clothes are not allowed.

Entrance: With SHAZ GUEST LIST, you can access BLING BLING for FREE till 03:00 every THURSDAY night. Just say you’re in SHAZ LIST at the door

Barcelona Nightlife | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 19 Jamboree Barcelona

If you’re looking for an “underground” venue, where words like “fancy” and “upscale” are not applied, then you must come to Jamboree! Lo- cated in Plaza Reial, right next to las Ramblas, this club, that hosted such legends as Chet Bak- er, will delight you with its Jazz sessions and Hip Hop/ R&B parties! Keep in mind: this is where the cool kids hang out!

Address: Plaça Reial, 17, 08002, Barcelona Metro Station: (L3)

Ambience: Relaxed; Indie; Underground; 21-35 years old public Dress code: none.

Entrance: With SHAZ GUEST LIST, you can access JAMBOREE for FREE fromMonday to Thursday till 01:30. Just say your’re in SHAZ LIST at the door.

!JOIN NOW!

SHAZ GUEST LIST www.barcelonaparties.com or call/write on whatsapp: 0034 66 33 62 087 Facebook: www.shaz.me

Barcelona Nightlife | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 20 ATTRACTIONS SIGHTSEEINGS & BEACHES

Attractions - Sightseeings & Beaches | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 21 FREE museums and gallaries

The following museums and galleries are free to enter all the time:

Temple Roma d’August: it’s a temple build during the Imperial period as a worship of Emperor Augustus. Arts Santa Monica: center of creativity, multidisciplinary space and meeting point for talented people in the country. Its aim is to spread the Catalan creativity and innovation. La Capella: La Capella is an art exhibition centre that the Culture Institute of Barcelona has dedicated to new creative artistic trends and innovative contemporary art. Fundacio Joan Brossa: foundation created in a memory of Joan Brossa who was the most known poet in Catalonia. He was also a designer and sculptor. We can find there all of his works.

Some of the museums in Barcelona are free on Saturdays and Sundays:

Museum Sunday

Castill de Montjuic from 3:00 PM

Museo Nacional de every Saturday from 3:00 PM and first Sunday of every Arte de Cataluña month - all day Museo de Historia de first Sunday of every month - all day Cataluña Museo de Historia de every Sunday from 3:00 PM and first Sunday of every Barcelona month - all day every Sunday from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM and first Sunday Museo Picasso of every month - all day Jardín Botánico de every Sunday from 3:00 PM and first Sunday of every Barcelona month - all day Museo de la Música de every Sunday from 3:00 PM and first Sunday of every Barcelona month - all day every Sunday from 3:00 PM and first Sunday of every Museo Blau de Barcelona month - all day Museu Marítim de every Sunday from 3:00 PM and first Sunday of every Barcelona month - all day

Attractions - Sightseeings & Beaches | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 22 must see in barcelona

La Sagrada Familia

It’s THE masterpiece of Antonio Gaudi. This building has been under construction since 1882. It is one of the most known monuments in Spain. You really must see it!

Barcelona ZOO

It’s a nice place to spend your afternoon. The Zoo has a large variety of animals. You can also find other things there like restau- rants and shops. It is located in the .

Parc de Ciutadella

It’s the oldest, the most known and the most visited park in Barcelona. You can even spend all your day there, walking through the small alleys, admiring its beauty and doing a picnic with your friends.

Attractions - Sightseeings & Beaches | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 23 Magic Fountain

It’s another important place in Barcelona that you should visit. It’s a fountain show with lights and music. Each show is different, so you never know what kind of music you will hear. Shows take place from Thursday to Sunday starting at 9p.m., every half an hour until 11 p.m. ( from 30th of April until 30th of September)

Arc de Triomf

It’s a monument designed by Josep Vilas- ec and Casanova. While all other triumphal arches were built to commemorate a victory, that one was built for another reason; just for an aesthetic reason.

Casa Batlló

Another great work of Gaudi. The name is in- herited after the name of the family who lived there in the past. It’s a modern house that will delight you with its design. It’s located in the heart of Barcelona, on Passeig de Gracia.

Torre Agbar

It’s the most characteristic skyscraper in Bar- celona. It has a weird form but that will re- mind of many funny things…

Attractions - Sightseeings & Beaches | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 24 BARCELONA BEACHES

The entire Barcelona metropolitan area has more than 32 km of beaches, stretching from Montgat north of Barcelona to Castelldefels. With around 9 million bathers a year (!!!), you can imagine how crazy it gets during the Summer…

Here we will give you some tips and a guide of Barcelona’s beaches, so you can take the most out of this bathing season!

Safety comes first!

Barcelona’s beaches have quiet waters and there are no dangerous currents close to the shore. It is very rare to find a red flag. Besides, almost all the beaches here have the EU Blue Flag, which means that this coast has high environmental standards and water quality. However, you must really pay attention to your belongings. Since Barcelona is a very touristic city, robberies are quite frequent. When coming to the beach, make sure you don’t have any objects of great value, and never leave your stuff unwatched.

Attractions - Sightseeings & Beaches | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 25 Barceloneta

Barceloneta is the most known beach of Barcelona and can, therefore, get quite busy during the summer months. It may be a small beach, but it is certainly lots of fun. During the sum- mer, you will see many people playing sports in the sidewalk, playing guitar, dancing… well, having a blast! There are many cool restaurants and bars near the beach where you can have a refreshing beer with friends! Ice cream is also a key word (You should totally try Vio- ko ice creams!) Thistouristic beach is perfect to make new friends and meet people from all over the world! So practice your English and be careful with your belongings.

How to get there: Bus: 14, 16, 17, 36, 39, 40, 45, 51, 57, 59, 64 Metro: Line 4 – Barceloneta

Icària Beach

Frank Gehry’s Peix marks the end of Barceloneta beach and the start of Icària Beach. It is a bit more relaxed than Barceloneta but… Still not that peaceful – it is frequented mostly by tourists and families with children. Really close to many restaurants and fast food chains (McDonalds is just a step away), Icària beach is also close to a shopping center, cinemas, bars and clubs – perfect if you want to leave the beach and extend the fun through the night!

How to get there: Bus: 6, 36, 41, 92, 141 Metro: Line 4 – Ciutadella and Bogatell

Attractions - Sightseeings & Beaches | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 26 Bogatell

If you go to the beach to relax and step away from the daily routine, then Bogatell is a good place to chill. For the more active people, this beach is also a great choice: it is equipped with table tennis tables and volley ball courts where you can play with your friends and fam- ily. Just above the beach, there are some restaurants that serve really good Mediterranean food (at reasonable prices).

How to get there: Bus: 6, 36, 41, 92 Metro: Line 4 – Poblenou or Llacuna

Marbella Beach

The name of this beach (literally, “beautiful sea”) describes it perfectly. It is also a must if you like watersports, because here you can go windsurfing and get in a kayak! You should also know that Marbella Beach has a nudist area – just in case you are easily embarrassed!

How to get there: Bus: 36, 71, 141 Metro: Line 4 – Selva del Mar

Attractions - Sightseeings & Beaches | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 27 Off The Beaten Track!

If the crowded beaches of Barcelona are too much for you, why not take a short train ride (around 30 minutes) and enjoy the peace and quiet of the beaches of Sant Pol de Mar, Oca- ta or Sitges? These humble pretty beaches will delight those looking for off-the-beaten-track places!

Attractions - Sightseeings & Beaches | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 28 Trips with Erasmus Barcelona

29 Carnival in Sitges in February/March

The time of the Carnival has been celebrated in Sitges for centuries!! Beginning on Thurs- day, the Carnival offers fun and cultural events like folk dances or typical food!

Las Fallas in Valencia in March

Valencia on its own is a fantastic city, which has a lot to offer it’s visitors! However, every year in March there is the famous local festival called “Las Fallas” that makes it even more attractive and fun city!

Ibiza in May

Great island known for its awesome summer parties and beaches! It is only a step away from Barcelona! Just chill-out to great music, have fun visiting the famous port, and enjoy your life on this fantastic Spanish island!

Trips with Erasmus Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 30 Bull Race in Pamplona in July

Do not miss this impressive event! The running of the bulls is for those who like a little bit more excitement!! There you can also enjoy the famous San Fermín Festival!

Tomatina Festival

The festival is about exactly what it sounds, Tomatoes. By the end of August, thousands and thousands of participants come from different corners of the world to fight in a harmless tomato battle. The purpose is quite simple: to have FUN and to get soaked by tomato juice!

Wine Tasting in Tarragona

Tarragona is very close to Barcelona; it is a beautiful city with a Gothic quarter and a pretty Cathedral! It was one of the most important cities for many decades! Close to Tarragona there are lots of small wineries where you can taste the best wines and enjoy the fantastic beaches!

Trips with Erasmus Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 31 Port Adventura

You should definitely visit Port Adventura if you are into fun and excitement!! It is a theme park near Barcelona with many attractions and different themes like Mexico, the Far West, Mediterrània, China, and Polynesia! It is the biggest resort in south Europe!

Tossa de Mar

It is a small city with little streets and a medieval wall. If you want to have an absolutely great perspective, you should go up to the little lighthouse and enjoy the view above the city and the sea! To complete this fantastic tour you should take one of the little ships and explore the cost!

Fiestas de Pilar in Lleida and Zaragoza

Lleida is one of the oldest cities in Catalonia and has a fantastic baroque Cathedral called “Seu Vella“. You must climb the tower, because at the top you have an amazing view over all of Lleida! In Zaragoza you shouldn’t miss the Arabic Palace “Aljafería“! A beautiful monument!

Trips with Erasmus Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 32 Cadaques, Sant Pere de Rodes, Port-Lligat

Cadaqués is a beautiful small village with pretty white houses and a special Mediterranean feeling! It was also an important place for art because the great Salvador Dalí lived there. You should also go to Port-Lligat, a nearby village, where you can visit his amazing summer house!

Madrid, Toledo, Sigüenza

Of course you have to see the capital of Spain! Madrid is the most touristic city of Spain, has a modern infrastructure but also offers a look and feeling of many of its historic neighborhoods and streets! Only 70 km away from Madrid lies another interesting city: Toledo! Because of its extensive cultural and monumental heritage the UNESCO declared it as a World Heritage Site!

Figueres, Girona

Figueres is the city where Salvador Dalí was born and where you can find the great Teatre-Mu- seo Salvador Dalí! Girona is a very romantic and antique city which has a beautiful ancient cathedral and narrow streets! Nearby, in Púbol you should visit the Castle of Dalí!

Trips with Erasmus Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 33 The Mountain of Montserrat

Montserrat is an amazing mountain chain very close to Barcelona that offers some of the greatest natural views you will ever see! You can take the bus up to see the impressive mon- astery, which houses the Holy Virgin. If you kiss her foot, you will be lucky the whole year!

Los Pireneos, Besalú, and Castellfollt de la Roca

Besalú has a beautiful medieval city center, which is the biggest (and more impressive!) of all Catalonia! Castellfollit de la Roca lies on a remarkable high basalt cliff, which make this small vil- lage an interesting point to visit! There you can also visit the museum of “Embutidos”, a Spanish food specialty, and taste delicious “Chorizos” or “butifarras”.

South of France

The most interesting and known cities are Nimes, Carcassonne, Avignon, Orange, Arles, Mont- pellier, Colliure and Perpignan. Those cities offer a great combination of culture, history, adven- tures and fun!For example, in Orange, you can see the best preserved roman theatre in Europe!

Trips with Erasmus Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 34 Skiing in Andorra

Now a trip for winter activity!!! For those who like to ski or snowboard, Andorra is the right place to be!! It offers a 60 km area with more than 42 tracks! 7 green, 15 blue, 16 red and 4 black! There is a track for every level!

Trips with Erasmus Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 35 Cultural activities

Cultural Activities | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 36 Erasmus meetings

Wondering how to make friends in Barcelona? Its easy: step 1, join our Erasmus Meetings! Ev- ery year around 300 Erasmus students from Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Netherlands, Bel- gium, Luxemburg, Turkey, Greece, Czech Republic, Croatia, Lithuania, Latvia and many other countries participate in our welcome meetings. Most of these students come to the meetings all alone but when the meeting finishes, everyone has at least 10 friends (guaranteed!)

Our meetings take place in several places in the city such as, Parc de la Ciutadella, Parc Joan Mirón, Parc del Labirint and many others. This way, not only will you meet a lot of students from all around the world, but you will also visit some of the best parks in the city!

Erasmus picnics

We like to take advantage of the sweet Mediterranean weather – and since Barcelona has beau- tiful parks, we will plan several picnics from April to October The picnics are FREE – you just have to bring a towel, food, drinks and good energy! (If you’re into music, it would be GREAT if you could bring your guitar!) We will share our picnic baskets, play some games, and talk all day long! It’s a great opportunity to make new friends and enjoy Barcelona’s warm atmosphere!

The picnics will take place at… * Parc de la Ciutadella * Parc Joan Miró * Parc del Labirito d’Horta…

Cultural Activities | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 37 Walking around Barcelona

You’ve probably heard amazing things about Barcelona… and now you want to see it all! Paying a fortune for the Bus Touristic is not an option. Also, because you want to make new friends and exploring the city with a bunch of old couples is not the most appealing idea…

So here’s what you must do: join our FREE (yeees!) walking tours and get to know other Eras- mus Students!

We will visit the most emblematic neighborhoods (like Raval, Gótico, Born…), show you the greatest monuments, gardens, plazas, places to eat & drink… It will be great! Join us!

Cultural Activities | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 38 LEARN SPANISH

Learn Spanish | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 39 language exchange meetings

Do you want to practice foreign languages with native speakers? Join Erasmus Barcelona language exchange meetings! Meet people, chat, send messages, make friends and improve your language skills! Every semester, we will gather native speakers of several languages (Spanish, English, French,Italian, Portuguese…) so you can learn with natives! The lessons will take place in bars/coffee shops of the city, especially in the center. We will give you more information a few weeks before the event, so you can apply.

* If you want, you can become a volunteer teacher! Tell us what language you speak and how your schedule is. We would love to work with you! Send us an email with your request to: [email protected]

Spanish Schools

If you’re planning on coming to Barcelona to learn Spanish, here’s what we can tell you: your experience is going to be amazing! Not just because this is the best city on earth (you will see!), but mainly because they have extended offers; all language schools have a complete range of programs that will respond to your needs and expectations. You will find flexibility, professional and rigorous teaching, fun environment, and students from all over the world! Learn a new language, practice your knowledge in your daily routine, make new friends and enjoy this beautiful city – it couldn’t get any better! There are all types of schools, with many different courses, prices, and conditions. Take a look at some of the best suggestions and find your ideal school!

Learn Spanish | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 40 International House

IH Barcelona’s school is situated in the center of the city – less than 5 minutes walking from Pla- za Catalunya – and it occupies 6 floors of a large corner building. It has 40 classrooms, a library, a computer room, a bar and a terrace. This school has a great offer of courses for every need, from group classes to private ones. And best of all: all materials that the students need to work with are provided free of charge.

International House Calle Trafalgar 14, 08010, Barcelona Tel: (+34) 93 268 4511 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.ihes.com

Oxford House Barcelona

Oxford House is one of Barcelona’s leading Spanish language academies. Here you will find all types of coursed (group classes, private lessons, all levels, etc.). The lessons at Ocford House focus on oral communication above it all. Their goal is to make you capable of finding your way in every-day situations. The Oxford House academy is centrally located, just a few blocks from the well known Passeig de Gracia and Casa Batló.

Oxford House Carrer de la Diputació, 279, 08007 Barcelon Tel: (+34) 931 74 00 62 Email: [email protected] Website: oxfordhousebcn.com

Learn Spanish | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 41 NATIONAL EVENTS IN BARCELONA

National Events in Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 42 Festival de Sant Medir de Gràcia

The festival of Sant Medir takes place during the first week of March, a long procession of heavy animals and riders on the most beau- tiful horses meet at the square “Plaza Rius i Taulet” in the district of Gracia. The colorful flags of the clubs that organize this festival, flutter in the wind. Then they ride to a picnic on the Arrabassada to the hermitage of Saint Sant Medir - patron of the bean. After noon the procession resumes and on the Gran de Gracia, the riders throw sweets into the crowd.

Sant Jordi (April 23)

Sant Jordi is for many the most beautiful festival in Barcelona. The date of Sant Jor- di, the patron of Catalonia, is also known as the “Day of the book”, because on that day during the year 1616 was when the most im- portant poets of Spain, Cervantes died , and Shakespeare was born on a 23rd April. The tradition includes men giving women roses, and the women give the men a book. Cou- ples (and not just married couples) of all ages stroll through the streets, with a rose in her hand or a book under the arm. It is a beautiful picture, millions of red roses.

Corpus Cristi - L’ou com Balla (June)

Corpus Christi is held in June with parades of giant carnival figures with big heads. The tra- dition of “L’ou com balla” (means “the danc- ing egg”) dates from the 16th Century. Here is a blank eggshell on the beam of a fountain laid with many flowers. Although its hard to believe the tradition is that it wants to actually dance the egg, and if it falls down sometimes, it climbs straight back to the top of the beam. This phenomenon can be found at all foun- tains in the city.

National Events in Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 43 Festa Major de Gràcia

Along with the holiday of Assumption Day on 15 August begins in the District Gràcia the city festival and lasts until 21 August. The inhabi- tants of the various roads have a competition to see who has the most beautifully decorat- ed street. In this context, there are hundreds of events under the open sky with live con- certs in every street, theaters and chocolate for children, paella dinner for the older. The events last far into the night.

Catalan National Day (September 11)

The “Diada”, the National Day of Catalonia. On this day Catalonia thinks of its defeat to the forces of King Philip V of Borbón and that from then on Catalonia was no longer an independent nation. Many events are held throughout Catalonia.

La Mercè (September)

24 September is the day of the Holy Mer- cè, Holy patron of Barcelona. This week the city festival is celebrated with many concerts (free), and parades of giant figures, fireworks, Correfocs.

National Events in Barcelona | Barcelona Guide for Erasmus and International Students 44 In case of any doubt:

Shaz (http://www.shaz.me/) +34 66 33 62087 http://shazguestlist.com/erasmusbarcelonanew/ www.BarcelonaParties.com www.ErasmusBarcelona.com Video: http://vimeo.com/34581877

See you soon in Barcelona! Erasmus Barcelona Team