After check-in has been accomplished at your accommodation, then find your way down to Boqueria Market, one of the oldest markets in Spain which fascinates large crowds of foodies simply because of what it offers; there's a great choice of locally grown food stuffs, freshly caught fish, assorted meats and vegetables, as well as international and local goods from regional provinces which you can then prepare and cook yourself in the high-tech kitchen of your city centre apartment.

You should always make yourself aware of extra charges and costs when eating in the city restaurants, most places add value added tax, and an IVA tax will add 7 % onto your tab. Even though places will provide you with both wine and water at no charge it's worth it to ask what's included in the total bill. Habitually the Spanish have an afternoon siesta which affects the opening and closing times of restaurants and shops. Other tips when in any city include never leaving your belongings unattended as thieves are much more common in the centres, and in Barcelona there's not any necessity to leave a tip, if you want to then do so but no-one will mind if you prefer not to.

The internet has made most peoples' lives a lot more convenient and easier to manage, formulate your sightseeing plans in advance online so you can find the free activities and sights to visit, especially the museums which can be pricey. Some museums have no entry fee at all, whilst others are free only on particular days, in Barcelona it's generally Wednesdays and Sundays. The celebrated Museu Nacional D'Art de Catalunya, or MNAC, showcases an expansive selection of classic and modern art that is free to view for everyone on the first Sunday of each month. Come the dark hours and it's easy to see why it's legendary for the spectacular water and light shows at Font Màgica de Montjuïc, but mainly it's the choice of art and numerous other extraordinary exhibits that will keep you entertained all day in this city.

Art lovers shouldn't miss a visit to the gallery scene particularly at the Fundacio Caxiaforum, for relaxation take a walk around the Conseil de Cent Street between Mutaner and Rambla Catalunya where there are plenty of galleries to browse for nothing. Several of the best art gems are to be found outside the galleries and museums, including Montjuic, the Fundacio Joan Miro Museum, and the Parc d'en Castell de l'Oreneta. The biggest park in the city is Parc de la Ciutadella, an inviting place to chill out in the impressively-sized grounds, on the other hand Parc Guell will fuel your senses with its futuristic visionary sculptures. A UNESCO World Heritage Site it's commonly called the 'Works of Antoni Gaudi', and features exquisite gingerbread houses, glitzy stone structures and colossal columns that are nothing like you could ever imagine yourself. The MACBA, Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona, often hosts free workshops in the auditorium and the place is well-known for its quiet areas to read as it has a fascinating set of books, publications and archives for the public to use for free.

The architectural wonders of Barcelona are immeasurable, but the most famous of all is the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece which is visited by thousands and will definitely captivate you with its beauty. Another building designed by Gaudi is 'The Quarry', which can be photographed freely from the outside and is initially famous for the threats it received about its outlandish appearance.

If your budget is limited then don't despair, a holiday or short break in Barcelona can be inexpensive as there are lots of sights to visit that give a taste of the scene for no charge, and many low-cost apartments to rent for those who mean to spend a period of time in this marvellous capital city.