7 Barcelona Tourist Traps to Avoid


Barcelona is full of famous sights and attractions that naturally draw tourists in. While some spots might be considered tourist traps or a bit overpriced, they’re still part of what makes exploring the city special. After all, you’re here to experience Barcelona’s highlights!
These tips are here to help you understand and avoid common pitfalls, but remember to take them with a grain of salt. What might not be worth it to one person could be a must-see for you. Prioritize what matters most, and enjoy your adventure!
In this article:
1. Las Ramblas - Overpriced and Overhyped?

Las Ramblas is often the first stop for many tourists visiting Barcelona, but it’s one of the most overrated parts of the city. While the busy boulevard is full of street performers, shops, and restaurants, it’s also filled with overpriced eateries serving mediocre food, and souvenir shops selling mass-produced trinkets at inflated prices.
What to Avoid?
Dining
Restaurants here cater primarily to tourists, charging higher prices for lower quality. Avoid places with menu pictures, as they often serve subpar dishes.
Shopping
The souvenir shops along Las Ramblas are notorious for overcharging and selling items you can find elsewhere for much less. Check out our recommendations for shopping.
Better Alternatives
Explore El Raval or Gràcia
Just a short walk away, these neighborhoods offer more authentic dining experiences, where locals actually eat, and you can find unique, reasonably priced souvenirs.
Visit local markets
For a more genuine shopping experience, head to Mercat de Sant Antoni or smaller local shops where you can find handmade, authentic goods at fair prices.
2. Skip Overpriced Paella on La Rambla
Paella is a must-try when in Spain, but La Rambla is not the place to do it. Many restaurants along this famous street serve overpriced, touristy versions that are a far cry from the authentic dish. These establishments often lure tourists with flashy menus and pictures, but the quality doesn’t match the price.
What to Avoid?
Touristy Paella
Often reheated and lacking the authentic flavors.
Better Alternatives
Find local spots
Head to neighborhoods like Barceloneta or Poble Sec, where locals dine, to find real, delicious paella made fresh. Look for restaurants where the paella is cooked to order and served in the traditional paella pan.
Avoid the tourist traps on La Rambla and you’ll not only save money but also enjoy a more authentic taste of Barcelona’s culinary heritage.
3. Beware of Pickpockets
For every scam you learn about on the internet, scammers come up with 5 more. You have to be careful, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Las Ramblas, Sagrada Familia, and the metro. These skilled thieves operate in crowded places, often targeting distracted tourists.
What to Avoid?
Crowded areas
Pickpockets thrive in packed spaces where it’s easy to bump into someone and swipe valuables unnoticed.
How to Stay Safe?
Secure your belongings
Use anti-theft bags, keep valuables close, and stay vigilant, particularly in crowded areas.
Avoid flashy items
Don’t display expensive items like jewelry or electronics that can draw attention.
Stay alert and take precautions. Then, you’ll be able to enjoy your time in Barcelona without falling victim to this common tourist trap.
4. Avoid Buying Souvenirs in Tourist Areas

Souvenir shops in tourist-heavy areas like La Rambla sell overpriced, mass-produced items that lack authenticity and are simply... not good.
What to Avoid?
Tourist shops on La Rambla
These often sell the same generic items at inflated prices.
Where to Shop Instead?
Local markets and shops
Explore places like Mercat de Sant Antoni or the boutiques in Gràcia for unique, authentic souvenirs at reasonable prices.
Shop where locals go so you can get a more genuine piece of Barcelona without the tourist mark-up. Don’t forget to remain respectful and don’t disturb locals too much.
5. Tourist-Focused Performances on Flamenco Shows
Flamenco is a captivating art form, but many of the shows offered in Barcelona are heavily commercialized and tailored for tourists, often lacking the authenticity and passion found in genuine performances. These tourist-oriented shows can be overpriced and may not provide the true flamenco experience.
What to Avoid?
Overly commercialized venues
Shows that prioritize spectacle over authenticity.
Authentic Alternatives
Seek out smaller, local venues
Look for intimate settings in places like El Born or Poble Sec, where the performances are more likely to reflect the true spirit of flamenco.
Choose less touristy venue and you’ll experience the raw emotion and intensity that make flamenco so special. And you’ll save money.