From fashion to eating out, and staying healthy, there are a few things you want to learn from the locals of Barcelona as quickly as possible.
Last updated: June 12, 2025
People in Barcelona Do It Differently
The more I travel, the more I’m convinced that the best way to feel like a local in a new place is by observing, learning, and doing things that locals do. Our latest adventure in Barcelona further proved this bit of wisdom.
It seemed like these locals knew how to dress their best in any kind of weather, how to eat well and still be healthy, and even how to be so welcoming. Let me give you a quick look at the things that people in Barcelona excel at and the things you may want to learn more about when you visit the city next time.
6 THINGS TO LEARN FROM LOCALS OF BARCELONA
1. Keep It Friendly
Locals of Barcelona are arguably the friendliest people on earth. Don’t be surprised when a complete stranger goes above and beyond to help you navigate across the city. Whether it’s a carriage driver or a taxi driver, everybody is super attentive and gives you detailed information on how to get to your next destination.
No monetary reward or demand for using their services is expected. (These taxi drivers might have been on strike, but gave us the most detailed explanations on how to get around Barcelona by bus.) The same goes for bus drivers that make sure you get off at the right stop.
Even random strangers on the streets of Barcelona eagerly share smiles and strike up conversations as if you’ve been friends since childhood.
2. Follow (or Don’t) the Rules
Public Transportation: Did you see locals in Barcelona that refuse to validate their bus passes upon getting on public transportation? (I personally didn’t encounter even a single one.) There are no free rides, and people in Barcelona are very familiar and agree with it.
Street Crossing: On the other hand, many locals lose their patience when it comes to waiting for a green light at crosswalks. So often, you’ll see them confidently approaching you from the other side of the street at the red light.
Pickpocketing: Pickpocketing is also far from being an unheard thing in Barcelona. When visiting the city, you need to always be vigilant and carry with you only stuff that you need.
TIP: Make it a habit to wear your backpack or purse in front of you where you can see it.
READ MORE: 10 Things to Do in Barcelona on Your First Visit
3. Dress to Impress (in a Comfortable Way)
Just deal with it, locals in Barcelona are fashionable. There is no t-shirt or sweatpants as part of a casual look. Snickers are also kept for working out in the gym or going for a run. Instead, dress pants, dresses, chic jackets, and classic coats prevail.
It’s such a pleasant contrast to a laid-back style typical for the streets of some big cities, such as Los Angeles or Vancouver. And it’s definitely one of a few things you want to adopt.
4. Master a Scarf Game
Yes, scarfs, those must-have winter accessories. What else would you expect from such a stylish city? If you are in doubt how to wear your scarf or look for a new way to do it, take a walk in the streets of Barcelona. Every woman here has her own unique way to use this accessory. And I must say, every time it looks amazing.
5. Make Your Own Fresh Orange Juice
For all orange juice enthusiasts, Barcelona’s supermarkets have your back. Head over to a giant juicer and squeeze your own OJ. It couldn’t be fresher than that.
Prices are also very reasonable. To tell the truth, making your own juice is even cheaper than stopping for refreshment at a juice stall.
6. Eat Your Carbs
Locals of Barcelona eat a lot of bread and make it widely accessible. From baguettes to croissants, tarts, pies, and cakes, the carbs are everywhere. But this seemingly doesn’t have any negative impact on people’s looks or health. Does it have anything to do with genes or a healthy lifestyle where balancing is the key? I tend to believe the latter.
READ MORE: Patatas Bravas Recipe: A Classic Spanish Dish
