Barcelona is a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture, Mediterranean lifestyle, and rich culture, and it draws expats (and Spanish citizens too) from all corners of the globe. If you’re planning to make this dynamic city your new home, it’s essential to be prepared for the transition. Here are seven key tips to help you settle into life as an expat in Barcelona.

1. Learn the Language(s)
While you can definitely limp along with just English, especially in tourist areas, Spanish and Catalan are the official languages of Barcelona. Learning a few basic phrases in both languages will go a long way in helping you integrate and communicate effectively. Catalan, in particular, is a significant part of the local identity, so showing an effort to learn it can earn you goodwill among locals. A couple of well timed Catalan phrases will make a difference in how you get treated at a bar.

“Barcelona is a great city, a vibrant city… it has a real sense of life and movement, and it’s intoxicating to be in it.” – Colm Tóibín

2. Understand the Cost of Living
Barcelona is more affordable than cities like London or Paris, but it’s still one of Spain’s more expensive cities. Rent can be a significant expense, especially in central neighborhoods like Eixample. Research the cost of housing, utilities, and daily expenses ahead of time to budget appropriately. Consider exploring less touristy neighborhoods like Poblenou or Gràcia for more affordable options.

3. Secure Your NIE and Empadronamiento
As an expat, obtaining your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is essential. This identification number is required for almost everything, from opening a bank account to signing a rental contract. Additionally, you’ll need to register your residence with the city council (empadronamiento) to access public services and prove your residency.

4. Choose the Right Neighborhood
Barcelona is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. El Raval and Poble Sec have gritty up and coming feelings, El Born and Poble Nou are trendy and vibrant, while Eixample offers a more upscale, spacious atmosphere. Families might prefer quieter areas like Sarrià, Sant Gervas, or places even further afield like La Foresta or Cornelia. Spend some time exploring different barrios to find the one that best suits your lifestyle.

5. Embrace the Local Culture
Barcelona boasts a vibrant cultural heritage, from Gaudí’s breathtaking architectural works to lively festivals like La Mercè and Sant Jordi. Immerse yourself in the city’s unique customs and traditions. Catalan fiesta terms like correfocs, gegants, and castellers will soon become part of your vocabulary. (Plus, local associations are always welcoming new volunteers!) Explore markets such as Sant Antoni or Mercat del Ninot, savor tapas and vermut at neighborhood spots, and take part in community events—these are wonderful ways to truly feel at home in Barcelona.

6. Get Familiar with Public Transportation
Barcelona’s public transportation system is efficient and well-connected. The metro, buses, and trams can take you almost anywhere in the city. Consider getting a T-usual card for unlimited monthly travel. While the city is bike-friendly, be cautious of traffic and always use designated bike lanes. And once you have your empadronamiento, you can also get a Bicing (shared bike) card, which is one of the best ways to get around town. Bicing is only available to residents of the city.

7. Build a Social Network
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but Barcelona has a thriving expat community. Join local meetups, language exchange groups, or expat forums to meet new people and make friends. I recommend checking out Meetup or Internations as two of them, but there are many other sites. Many social activities are organized around outdoor spaces, such as beach volleyball or hiking trips, making it easy to connect with others.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Barcelona is an exciting adventure, but preparation is key to ensuring a smooth transition. By learning the language, understanding local customs, and navigating practical requirements like obtaining your NIE, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying all that this incredible city has to offer. Take the time to explore, adapt, and embrace the unique lifestyle of Barcelona—you’ll quickly see why so many expats fall in love with it.