I will be making my first ever trek to Europe (Barcelona) and could use some guidance. What to see, where to go, how much $$ to have, etc.....I'd appreciate any input from seasoned travelers!!!

First you need to help us. Do you have ANY ideas about where you might want to go? Why do you want to go to Europe at all? What are you hoping to do there? Any special interests we need to know about? How much time will you have?

We're ready to help.

What brings you to Barcelona of all places? Nothing wrong with the town, it's actually a very cool place (except for the bezillion pickpockets), but there must be a reason why you're headed there - what is it?

WK

Ellen, Vinsgra is going to Barcelona (although she/he could have made it cleare in the heading).

Vinsgra, you should check out the destination guide on this website to get yourself started. From there, besed on the length of your trip, you can narrow down what you'd like to see and do. How long will you be in Barcelona? Do you want to do any day trips? What's your hotel budget> What are your interests? What time of the year are you going?

Missed Barcelona in the message, but still want to know interests and timing.

I'd hardly call myself a seasoned traveler, but I like to get out now and then and have been to Barcelona. What to see and do definitely depends, as others have said, on what your interests are, as well as how long you will be there. We very much enjoyed the Gaudi highlights - Parc Guell, Casa Mila, and Sagrada Familia - but we enjoy architecture. Las Ramblas is a can't miss, as well (please don't call me a troll for this tidbit, but the giant phallus just inside the sex museum along here is quite a hoot). The gothic quarter, any park, wandering around - all much fun. Lovely views from Montjuic. Also did a day trip to cava country - Sant Sadurni d'Anoia - that was rather enjoyable. Get a good guidebook or poke around here and you'll find much to do.

For a cheap day, go to the beach. Some really hot bods. You could take the ferry over to Ibiza, the island, and party for a few days. Take the train down to Setges--about 30 miles down the water. Check out some of the old churches during the morning and relax on the beach in the afternoon.

On the expenses side of things I break expenses into Travel (air, rail, car rental), Lodging, Meals, Fun (museum and attraction entrance fees, souv., etc.)

When we travel, usually in the German-speaking countries I budget an average$100-$125 per night for hotels depending on how much time we will spend in cities (more expensive) versus towns (less expensive). Breakfast is ususally included in the hotel package and we eat light for lunch picking up a street vendor meal or a picnic. That leaves one meal a day as a larger expense.

If you plan to take any guided tours that will cost more than wandering around on your own.

Aha - I forgot about Sitges. Very relaxing, as well. Sorry, can't give advice about budget as I am notorious for failing to exercise self-restraint .

"the bezillion pickpockets"
"the bezillion pickpockets"
"the bezillion pickpockets"
can be said many times without repeating.....

My reason for traveling to Barcelona is that I will be meeting my sister-in-law there, who will be flying in from Cadiz. Because I have never been to Europe, I have no idea of what to see, where to go so even if I do consult books and on-line resources, I thought I'd check with people who travel often, to get their input. I am open to any and all suggestions and will be there 10 days in July. I thought I did make Barcelona clear in my initial post....sorry if it was missed.

If you like to party, stay at the Kabul Hostel. I was the only one there between midnight and 5:00 a.m. as everyone was partying. Everyone has a locker to store their valuables in. You share a room with 9 other people--some men--some women. If you are over 35, you won't fit in but they will tolerate you. Only about $28 a night.

How much do you want to budget a night for a hotel? What is your age?

I'd get a guidebook specific to Barcelona to read on the plane ride over.

For money, I take $300USD (keep) and $300 euro (spend) plus make sure I leave plenty in my checking account at home, and use an ATM card to get more cash as needed.

I have not been to Barcelona, but my plan for a new city traveling solo(are you?), it to figure out what is the best neighborhood to stay in, make a hotel reservation, and once you arrive just start exploring from there.

Pick up information from hotel lobby, train stations, tourist information booths after arrival.

Thanks to those who have offered your suggestions, they've been most helpful! Since my sister-in-law will be there a few days prior to my arrival, she will have our hotel/s booked so that ball is in her court. I'm 47 so the suggestion of the Kabul Hostel might not be an option for me!!! Don't want to "cramp the style" for those that are younger!

If you have a plane ticket & your friend has the hotel arranged... I don't see you need anything else. That's all the plans I ever have pre-trip.