As a study destination, Spain is one of the most popular in Europe, attracting over 75,000 international students per year. Many temporary residents in the country – students included – are attracted to Spain by the promise of sun, sea, and…

Barcelona is a city full of culture, beauty, and grandeur. From city markets to beach excursions, this capital city of Catalonia offers a plethora of diversion. Known as a city that never sleeps, Barcelona doesn’t disappoint after the sun goes…

Spanish is one of the most vastly spoken languages worldwide. It is famous for being an exotic, romantic and passionate language that is just as fun to speak as it is to hear! And as much as we all wish…

To make everything from your arrival to your first few days in Barcelona as simple as possible we have compiled a list of helpful hints and tips that will get you ready to get the most out of your time abroad!…

Moving is a stressful thing, moving abroad is even crazier. It’s stressful yet very exciting at the same time! With so many possibilities and fun new experiences to look forward to. Especially if you are going alone, then you also…

Preparing to live abroad is an exciting yet a bit of a nerve racking experience! There is so much to prepare and so many things to remember. Luckily there are several things that you can already get started on up…

If you’re planning a trip abroad, we are sure that there are a lot of details that you need to get sorted out. Most importantly, should be your healthcare. Healthcare systems in a foreign country can raise a lot of…

The information below has been collected by the Citylife team via intense research in collaboration with Proyecto Océano, one of Barcelona’s most known legal associations. Please keep in mind that we are not directly related to any legal or government…

So, you already have your suitcases packed and your guide books ready. You have made the decision to move to balmy Barcelona. The tranquil city with gorgeous beaches, pleasant temperatures and a vibrant nightlife. You are off to live in…

Being one of the most famous cities in the world comes at a price, and if you want to live in such a city, you need be prepared! Whether you’re arrival in Barcelona is set and coming soon or you…

Banking Many of you will be coming to Barcelona from countries with a different currency from the Euro. So, its important to familiarize yourself with how things work here. From exchange rates and transaction fees to banking services! To make…

El Prat Airport is the largest airport in Catalonia and is located just 14km away from the Barcelona city centre. The airport has been running since the early 1900’s but wasn’t a major airport for the area until the 1940’s….

Barcelona is a massive city. The famous historical centre is only a fraction of the cities vast expanse. So, unless you plan on investing in a car, you will probably need to hop on the Barcelona Metro may times during your…

When moving to a new place it’s normal to wonder about every aspect of your new life, including the culture and the weather there. Here we aim to give you a summary of this amazing city and answer some of…

Planning a trip to Barcelona anytime soon? Have some family or friends coming to visit? Well, look no further! Citylife Barcelona has established several great discounts in the most popular hostels, hotels and touristic apartments in Barcelona! HOSTEL DISCOUNTS Staying in…

¡La preparación para irte a vivir al extranjero es una experiencia nerviosa y emocionante a la vez! Hay muchas cosas que tienes que preparar, averiguar y recordar. Afortunadamente, hay muchas cosas con las que puedes empezar desde tu sofá. Citylife…

La asistencia sanitaria es un aspecto importante, pero suele ser un tema que la gente evita cuando viaja al extranjero. Ya sea por las complicaciones de entender un nuevo sistema médico, los nervios por visitar a un médico en un…

The information below has been collected by the Citylife team via intense research in collaboration with Proyecto Océano, one of Barcelona’s most known legal associations. Please keep in mind that we are not directly related to any legal or government…

The information below has been collected by the Citylife team via intense research in collaboration with Proyecto Océano, one of Barcelona’s most known legal associations. Please keep in mind that we are not directly related to any legal or government…

Catalunya has it’s own traditions and it’s own Valentine’s day on the 23rd of April! it’s called Sant Jordi, where the boys give a rose to the girls and girls give a book to the boys. As far as traditions…

La mudanza es algo estresante, pero para mudarte en un país extranjero es aún más loco! ¡Es algo estresante pero a la vez muy emocionante con tantas posibilidades y nuevas experiencias divertidas que te esperan! Encima si vas a vivir…

Hoy en día es escencial estar conectado con el móvil. Ya sea para estar en contacto con familiares y amigos, hacer planes y revisar todas tus aplicaciones con frecuencia. ¡No hay casi nada que nos aparte de esa rutina, incluso…

Si quieres viajar al extranjero, estamos seguros que hay muchísimos detalles que tienes que organizar. Uno de los más importantes debería ser la asistencia médica. Comprender el sistema médico de otro país puede crear muchas incertidumbres. Para ayudarte a comprender…

Barcelona es una ciudad enorme. El centro histórico es sólo una minúscula fracción de esta enorme ciudad, así que, si no piensas comprar un coche, es probable que tengas que usar el metro de Barcelona muchísimas veces durante tu tiempo…

Congratulations! You’re going to Morocco! You’re about to embark on an incredible journey to Africa where the temperature is hot and the culture is rich. You’ve probably made your list of top places to see and have worked up an…

Spanish has a long list of funny and interesting expressions that are often difficult to translate directly into english. But what about Catalan? One of the most understandable expression of the Catalan expressions. It won’t be a surprise that it…

Spanish has a long list of funny and interesting expressions that are often difficult to translate directly into english. But what about Catalan? This sentence is a really sweet one, so If somebody say “Salut I força al canut” for…

Spanish has a long list of funny and interesting expressions that are often difficult to translate directly into english. But what about Catalan? And what about the broccolis?! If I want to translate this Catalan sentence directly into English it…

Spanish has a long list of funny and interesting expressions that are often difficult to translate directly into english. But what about Catalan? This is one of the most curious Catalan expressions out there. It is almost exclusively used in…

Spanish has a long list of funny and interesting expressions that are often difficult to translate directly into english. But what about Catalan? Here’s a fun one! We all know that that Spaniards love their coffee! If you want to…

Valentine’s day is coming and you are in Barcelona. Now the big question is, how can I spend a perfect valentine’s day? Barcelona is a city that’s known for the many beautiful places. For example because of the architecture of…

As you may already know, there are lot of opportunities in Barcelona to do the groceries. More or less all of them are selling the same products (from various brands) but the prices vary too! Some of the shops are…

If you’re new to Barcelona then you probably haven’t seen the unofficial rule book of the city yet. That’s because these rules are unwritten, but universally understood by everyone living here! Many of the rules are common sense, while others……

Skiing is an incredibly popular sports in Spain, and there is no shortage of mountains in this country, especially near the northern border with France when the Pyrenees are located. If you prefer a pair of skates to a pair…

Everyone’s heard of salsa, bachata or flamenco, right? These latin and Spanish dances are some of the most popular movements in the entire world! It’s popularity in latin countries in addition to the ever-growing fanbase across Europe and North America!…

For most people, time abroad is a life changing experience. Something they will take with them throughout their entire life! Barcelona is no different! This city is so special in so many ways that you’re life is guaranteed to be…

Spanish winter is fast approaching, and the best way to come to terms with the slight drop in weather is to embrace it! It may be inevitable, yes, but knowing how to do winter in Spain the right way is…

Our neighbour to the south is an absolutely amazing country, full of rich history, breathtaking cities, amazing food and endless discoveries! This is exactly why Morocco is one of our top destinations for travel throughout the year! We have several…

Morocco is one of our favourite destinations to visit throughout the year! Can you blame us? From north to south it’s filled with wonders and splendours that will enchant any visitor. If you’re thinking of going to Morocco, but have…

Every last Wednesday of August thousands congregate to the small town of Buñol, Spain to participate in a massive food fight in celebration of absolutely nothing. La Tomatina is special in that it’s one of those rare holidays that has…

The world as we know it will never be the same again! After years of rumours and anticipation, the European Union finally announced a major update on roaming charges that will make everyone’s lives so much easier! One of the…

It’s safe to say that Summer is on our doorstep! The hot weather is here and the city is moving outside! There is no shortage of community events, festivals and activities going on in the city this month. So check…

AT HEMA, YOU WILL FIND MORE THAN 7,000 MODERN AND ORIGINAL ITEMS TO LIVE IN SPAIN Welcome to Spain! This is an important stage in your life and HEMA would love to be part of it. HEMA is a Dutch…

Who else is ready to grab a towel and sunscreen and hit the beach? With the sunny weather approaching, the urge to splash in the water is getting stronger and stronger. But what if you wanna skip the mellow beach…

INGLÉS  Stud&Globe assists students in their search for an internship abroad, offering a vast network of training in Europe and Latin America to guarantee a successful experience both professionally and personally. The services we offer go beyond an in-company internship!…

Catalonians sure know how to welcome the Spring season! On May 12th – 14th, the The 17th Barcelona International New Roses Competition will take place at the Parc de Cervantes. Every year since 2001, the city of Barcelona has come…

The CaixaForum Barcelona is an art museum situated on Montjuïc Mountain, on Avinguda de Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia. Sponsored by the popular Barcelona bank, la Caixa, the museum opened its doors in 2002 and has since been offering a large…

Can you believe it is already May? Where did the time go? We’ve been having too much fun. If you haven’t noticed yet, this month starts off with days off from work. This month also brings numerous fun events, concerts,…

Spring is upon us, which means that Gazpacho is now being served all over Spain and Salmorejo will slowly disappear from menus. You may not know this but this famous soup has a rival, which is equally as popular among…

Two words: Race Cars. They amaze us, scare us, and intrigue us. If you are a lover of cars pay attention. From May 12th – 14th is the Spanish Grand Prix held here in Barcelona. Specifically, the race will be…

Spain’s second-most popular annual tennis tournament will take place this year from April 22nd – 30th.  The Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell (‘Trofeig Conde Godó’) is a tennis tournament for male professional players, held every year on the courts at the Real Club de Tenis Barcelona since…

In Europe, almost all children grow up knowing that they will eventually travel to another country to study at one point in there educational careers. This period is known as an Erasmus Experience! For those living in Europe it’s quite…

No matter where you are around the world and no matter how long you will be there for, home should be the place where you feel relaxed and comfortable. That’s why it’s really important to make sure that you have…

The Fundacio Suñol is a private non-profit foundation dedicated to showcasing the private art collection of the late Josep Suñol. Located on Passeig de Gràcia, 98, the art exhibit holds a substantial collection of more than 1,200 different pieces of…

Domino´s Pizza is one of the best pizza places in Spain, even though it hasn´t been around for a long time! Since 2009 they have been offering innovative recipes with the best quality in their ingredients. It was founded in…

Barcelona’s history began where the Barri Gòtic is today. The Romans dominated the city for about 500 years until the capture of the Visgoths in 410 AD. During the Roman’s rein they founded a settlement called “Barcino” on the hill…

The Jewish district is called “El Call” and is located in the middle of the Barri Gòtic. It starts at the northwestern corner of the Plaça Sant Jaume. The name “El Call” comes from the Hebrew word kahal, which means…

As one of Barcelona’s oldest neighborhoods, the place is filled with charming tapas restaurants and cafés. It also has its fair share of tourist traps, but this guide will help you avoid those and find the best places to eat….

Instagram is not only fit for selfies, memes, and sorority photos. People from all over the world use Instagram, which means photos from all over the world are posted. This popular app has given us a way to travel and…

One hundred and fifty kilometers east of the Valencian shore lies a legendary island where Mike Posner took a pill to show Avicii he was cool. Every year, tourists and party enthusiasts from all over the world travel to the…

The Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB) is one of the most visited art exhibition museums in Barcelona. The central theme of the museum revolves around contemporary and urban culture, especially in regards to Catalonia’s capital. Located in El…

April has arrived and it’s time for another monthly run-down! As the weather gets warmer the city moves outdoors, so mark your calendars and get ready for community fairs, sports events, concerts and more! Check out some of our favourite…

Throughout the whole week of Holy Week, also known as Semana Santa there are many religious processions. Hermandades and Cofradias are groups of people based at different churches who organize these processions. The umbrella organization here in Barcelona is the…

Easter week is a time for fun and good food. If you are spending this holiday in Barcelona, you are likely going to want to embrace and try new traditions, such as specific traditional foods. Similarly to Christmas tradition, meat…

If you are here for Easter week, get ready to travel back in time and be swept off your feet by the festivities. Around the world, Easter week is known as Holy Week or Semana Santa. It is a time of celebration of Jesus. To…

Are you a fan of festivals, food trucks, and electronic music? Then you better not miss out on Barcelona’s upcoming event, Brunch in the City! Held at Poble Espanyol, this grand festival offers a full day of good vibes and…

When someone thinks “Beer Festival”, they usual think of the great ole’ lands of Germany or Belgium. There are quite a few well-known beer festivals that attract people from all over Europe, from international students to heavy beer-enthusiasts. Good news…

When it comes to a more contemporary-style of art, Barcelona, Spain stands out amongst the rest. This city is overflowing with results of Catalan Modernism, a name given to the art and literature movement that engulfed the region of Catalonia…

There are so many fun things to do and see in Barcelona, but if you are on a tight budget it can be difficult to figure out what you can see or experience. Luckily, this city is incredible and offers…

You may recognize her from The Sea Wall for playing Suzanne, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides as the mermaid Syrena, and I Origins as Sofi. Àstrid Bergès-Frisbey is both an actress and model. She was born in Barcelona…

Do you like dessert? If you answered yes, you will love this fun Spanish traditional recipe. You have probably heard and even tried the French pastry Crème Brûlée This dessert is very similar to it, but the Crema Catalana has…

Barcelona is a city that lives and breathes sports and athletics! From football – the classic Spanish pastime, and biking through the cities many cycle lanes. To jogging through the city streets, hiking in the beautiful trails surrounding the city…

As all the wise flea market connoisseurs say: One man’s garbage is another man’s gold. Secondhand markets are an awesome alternative when you are trying to stay on a budget, but they are also so much more than that! At…

Attention all running addicts and marathon lovers! The Barcelona Marathon (also called the Marathon Catalunya), is coming to Barcelona on Sunday, March 12th! The Barcelona Marathon is a yearly event that attracts runner from all over Spain. This year, over…

There is a special Catalan delicacy that only grows from January to March in the Southern Catalonia region. If you’re in Barcelona during the spring season, there is no way you can miss out on some delicious calçots! Calçots are…

After a night of partying like a true Spaniard during Carnaval, it is only a matter time before you hear your stomach grumble. Dancing and walking all around Barcelona has made you hungry and now you are faced with a…

When it comes to going out, it is important to know what to order as a drink. Spain has some unique delicious drinks that you should really try. As the weather keeps on getting warmer, the days of sitting outside…

In Barcelona, Carnival is the time to celebrate the good things in life before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. Throughout the world, Lent is the period of forty days leading up to Easter, in which Christians abstain from…

Panellets, also known in Southern Spain as Empiñonados, are a traditional Catalonian dessert made up of nuts and potatoes. Panellets are known as the customary dessert of All Saints’ Day (in Spanish, Dia de Todos Los Santos), a national public…

If you’ve searched for upcoming activities and events in Barcelona, you probably noticed the endless amount of art exhibitions held each month. Here in Barcelona, we take pride in our art! From this illustrious, beautiful city have risen many artists concentrated…

Valentine’s Day is this week and if you are like most people, you have waited until the last minute to plan a romantic and fun evening that won’t break the bank. Luckily, there are many beautiful and intimate spots in…

Whether you are just learning Spanish or want to learn some key phrases, it is good idea to learn how to tell someone you like them or be able to recognize if someone likes you. If you haven’t noticed already,…

It is not known for sure how the tradition of Carnival began, but some early traditions of the festival are thought to be traced back as far as ancient Rome and Greece.  The most popular theory is that Carnival was…

So now that you’ve arrived to the Catalan capital, you might find yourself busy scheduling a hectic study day while trying to plan your next glass of vermouth. Meanwhile, your “to-do” list won’t stop growing: explore new corners of your…

Barcelona is, without a doubt, Gaudí’s city. Many of his masterpieces of architecture were built here, and one of them is the beautiful Palau Güell! The Güell Palace was commissioned by the famous industrial tycoon Eusebi Güell, the same man behind the…

Gerard Piqué is one of Barcelona’s major success stories! He was born in Barcelona in 1987 and has been working in professional sports his entire life. He’s played for major teams like Manchester Untied, the Spanish National team and obviously…

As the colder months quickly approach us here in Barcelona it’s time to replace those salad bowls with soups bowls and those light, refreshing meal with something a little more hardy! Our featured dish today is a classic Catalan recipe…

This article is dedicated to those of you who hate Christmas shopping! Ok, maybe hate is too strong a word. How about those of you who would rather not spend days upon days searching through store after store for the…

If you’ve spent five minutes in Barcelona you already know that there is no shortage of souvenir shops in the city centre. There are probably more shops in Barcelona than there are museums and sites combined to be honest! But,…

While Barcelona’s Christmas-themed markets, festivals and performances create holiday spirit, if you’re in the city at this time of year, you barely have to leave your apartment or hostel to enjoy the spectacular Els llums de Nadal, or Christmas light…

Christmas might be very similar all over the world with its celebrations but a Catalan Christmas is truly something special. It has some unique traditions that will surprise you, charm you and make you say “what the…?” To make the…

There are many ways to get into the Christmas season, and one of them is spending a day at a traditional Christmas market! Luckily for you, Barcelona is loaded with markets this time of year. Food markets, clothing markets, artisan…

The Museum of the History of Catalonia is located in Port Vell, right on the water and next to the Moll de Bosch i Alsina boardwalk. It’s a museum dedicated to preserving the culture, history and identity of the Catalan people. It…

Are you a fan of Sherlock Holmes? Ever wondered what it would be like to work for CSI? Do you think you have what it takes to solve a major mystery? Well, at Escape Hunt you can find out! The…

Christmas is a time for tradition, family, sharing and good vibes! If you’re spending the holiday season in Barcelona this year, there’s no doubt you’ll want to share some typical traditions from your home with your new international family, but…

There’s no wrong time to drink coffee in Spain. Almost every traditional bar will have an espresso machine and whether it’s 12pm or am they’ll be happy to serve you a cup. The trick is knowing exactly what to ask…

Nobody likes working on their day off, but often this is something we have to do in order to meet deadlines or prepare for that final exam. Instead of locking yourself in your room and hating the path you’ve chosen…

Whether you’re studying, working on a project or preparing something for work, chances are you’ll need a quiet space to get it all done. While some people prefer working from home or heading to the nearest cafe, there is still…

Florentines had the Renaissance, New Yorkers had Abstract Expressionism, Parisians had Rococo and Catalans had Modernism. At first glance, Modernism – or Modernisme as the Catalans put it – is an artistic style that gained popularity in the Catalan region of Spain…

Europe is home to some of the most famous and revered theatres and Opera Houses in the world. From the State Opera House in Vienna and La Monnaie in Brussels. To the Palais Garnier in Paris and the Royal Opera House…

If you’ve ever been down to Barcelona’s Port Vell, you’ve most likely seen the classic red cable cars soaring above the water. This unique form of sightseeing is called the Aeri del Port de Barcelona (The Barcelona Port Cable Car) and…

Barcelona is many things, but originally, it was a fishing town. For thousands of years the Barcelona harbour has played an important role in shaping the city and even Spain itself! The Port Vell is Barcelona’s most notable harbour front….

Spanish culture is rich, unique and different. A real luxury for the senses! Spain has the most unique monuments and interesting museums where you can find masterpieces of the world’s most renowned artists! Barcelona is a vivid city with its…

Barcelona is one of the world’s top tourist destinations for art and culture. People flock from all over the world to see all the iconic monuments and museums Barcelona has to offer. Due to such high traffic, it’s common for…

There are a lot of things to do in Barcelona. You’ll probably find yourself seduced by the exciting nightlife and the social scene! But most importantly, Barcelona is a city of art, culture and architecture. If you haven’t explored the…

Perhaps a man remembered for high seas piracy should not be referred to as famous, but rather, infamous. This would be the perfect definition for the Spanish pirate Pedro Gilbert (or Don Pedro, as his comrades would call him). He is…

If you take a walk down to Port Vell, past the famous Columbus monument, over the boardwalk and along the harbour, you’ll eventually find one of Barcelona’s most prized modern sites – the Aquarium. L’Aquarium Barcelona is considered one of…

Ideal for children and adults alike, Barcelona’s parks offer a variety of landscapes and sceneries which capture its rich multicultural history and invite day-trips for those looking for an escape from the chaotic city life. There is something here for…

Eggs do not immediately call to mind grand, sweeping declarations. These sturdy breakfast staples are seriously underused in English idioms (“last one there is a rotten egg” and “suck an egg”— vintage— are the only two that come to mind)….

Victoria Moraru– Friday, 7th of October at 7:45 AM When it’s early in the morning and you’re wondering why you aren’t in bed at this hour, it means that you are ready to travel… Standing in front of the Citylife…

Barcelona is a truly beautiful city. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain regions, the gorgeous coastline, rolling hills and of course, the diverse architecture. It can be difficult to take it all in in a short amount of time, especially from the…

There are a lot of ways to fall in love with a city. You can embrace its culture, befriend its people or indulge in its food. But one of my most favorite ways to build a relationship with a city,…

Photo: Carlos Lorenzo Carbonell The world famous architect and father of the modernisme movement in Catalunya, Antoni Gaudi, built many of his finest accomplishments in the northern barrios of Eixample and Gracia. One such project was the curious building called Casa…

The Madrid-Barcelona rivalry is the stuff of legend. What you may not know is that it extends to the music scene. Barcelona often nabs the big name acts, while other cities in Spain (including the capital) are tragically overlooked. We…

If you’ve lived in Spain for a while now, you’ve probably heard the word padel. You may have assumed it was something to do with rowboats, or just tennis’ incomprehensible younger cousin, and moved on with your life. Citylife is…

Personally, I love that Spain offers diverse climate, weather, and geography unique to each of its 17 autonomous regions. While Spain’s big cities embody the majority of popular tourist attractions, tucked away behind the hustle and bustle of the big…

It’s a common mistake to assume that Italy is the leading producer of olive oil – in fact that title belongs to Spain! At the 2016 New York International Olive Oil Competition (NYIOOC), Spain took home a whopping 78 awards….

If for whatever reason you’re looking for an excuse to rock an incredible moustache, you can proceed with all of the above not just out of laziness, but also for a great cause. You might have heard of “No Shave…

If you are a fan of basketball, you probably know how successful FC Barcelona has been since the 1980’s. The oldest club in the Liga ACB (also competing in the EuroLeague), FC Barcelona was founded on August 24, 1926. Like…

Aside from Christmas, I think it’s safe to say that Halloween is the second most anticipated holiday of the year, for kids and adults alike! From huge parades to crazy costume ideas, there’s no doubt Halloween is one of the…

Whether you’re looking for the scariest halloween costume of the year, want to shine at the Carnival celebrations or maybe you’re just going to a theme party and want to wow the crowd! No matter what occasion and what time…

Are you ready for the spookiest, scariest and most frightening time of the year?! Halloween is coming up in a few and Barcelona’s opportunities to celebrate the spine-chilling feast does not disappoint! In Spain, Halloween mainly features ghouls, ghosts, witches…

The Catalan region of Spain takes pride in its unique traditions surrounding holiday rituals, seasonal foods, and numerous themed festivals that take place year round. Planning a trip to Barcelona? Make the most of your experience & educate yourself (and…

If you’ve taken a look at any of the other blogs involving Catalan cuisine, you’ll recognize bacallà (bacalao) as the tasty cod fish unique to the Catalan region, thanks to its location on the rich Mediterranean coast. Bacallà/bacalao/salted cod fish goes…

Goats aren’t that bad. Some would say they’re pretty cute. But in Spain calling someone a cabrón (or calling a group of people cabrones), meaning male goat, definitely isn’t a compliment. Though it can be used jokingly among friends (i.e….

Spain can be a tricky place to live if you have food allergies. The staple foods (café con leche, baguette, and cured hams) are not exactly vegan/vegetarian, gluten-free, or lactose-intolerant-friendly. However, in recent years awareness of food allergies, vegetarianism, and…

Do you ever have one of those nights where you just need to let loose, go crazy and have some fun? Or how about that feeling you get when you’re about to reunite with some old friends who guarantee a…

Thanks to its prime location on the Mediterranean, the Catalan region boasts some of Spain’s finest cuisine, composed of fresh ingredients, meats, seafood, vegetables, and more. Planning a trip? We’ve got you covered on the essentials you can’t afford to…

Have you wondered what the Sagrada Familia would look like if it were completely made of chocolate? What about the chariot scene from Ben Hur? Well, at Barcelona’s Museu de la Xocolata you can see all of that and more!…

Antonio Banderas is one of the most famous Spanish actors in Hollywood today. He’s got one of, if not the most recognizable hispanic accents in the world, which can be heard in blockbusters like Shrek, Interview with a Vampire, The…

In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue! Over here in Spain, he’s known as Cristobal Colon, the man who set sail to India and wound up landing in the Americas on October 12, 1492. To commemorate this world changing moment…

One of the most admirable things about Spanish people, in my opinion, is their commitment to a good party. Throughout the year there are a ton of festivals all over the country. Though their origins are often religious, a party…

Joan Miró i Ferrà was born in Barcelona in 1893. He was an artist with a very peculiar but intriguing talent for surrealism. Most of his work is centred around the conscious mind and Catalan pride which challenged the typical…

For many, heading to the local market in the morning or on the weekends is a normal part of life. Getting up early in the morning and taking a brisk walk to the marketplace; often meeting up with friends, chatting…

Barcelona’s neighbourhoods are like little towns in themselves. They have unique histories, individual cultures and rich, proud communities! One such area is the massive district of l’Eixample. The district itself  is divided into 4 parts – L’Antiga Esquerra de l’Eixample (Old…

Hola todos! My name is Ronja. I come from the promised land of saunas, Santa and reindeer, from a country also known as Finland! I was born in Northern-Finland in a city called Oulu. Almost 4 years ago I moved 600…

If you’re lucky enough to be living abroad in Spain for a while, you’ll likely want to take advantage of your situation and travel around a little! It’s tempting to dream of weekend escapes to Paris, Lisbon and Rome, and…

You have to be pretty hard up to not even have a turkey. At least that’s what this Spanish expression seems to be saying. In fact, “pavo” was originally a slang term for five pesetas because that’s exactly what a…

Are you looking for an alternative mode of transportation around the city? Something cheaper and more temporary than a car, but a little more personal than the metro? Luckily for you, Barcelona is becoming more and more eco-friendly every year…

Barcelona is a really bicycle friendly city. You can find bike lanes in almost all neighbourhoods for people who enjoy an alternative method of transportation. If you’d like to get in on this ever-growing, eco friendly trend, we recommend the…

When Christopher Columbus returned from his maiden voyage to the New World, his first stop in Europe was the port of Barcelona! The harbour front of Barcelona has seen some impressive moments in history. Dating all the way back to…

When it comes to football, Spain can proudly say that it’s home to the best teams in the world. From total trophies won, to hugely valuable players – Spain’s got the best of the best. One of Spain’s top teams…

Bacallà – bacalao in Spanish, and cod in english – is a very popular fish on the Iberian Peninsula. You can find many classic dishes using cod in a variety of ways, including what the Catalans like to call Bacallà…

As the summer comes to a close, Barcelona begins preparing for its most famous street festival of the year! La Mercè has been an official city holiday since the late 1800s and continues growing in popularity with people from all…

Fish face sounds like a cruel thing to call someone, but in Spain it can actually be a good thing. If someone has a Cara de pez  (fish face) it means they’re impossible to read (the English equivalent would be…

Spain has more than 30 islands. They are world-famous for their wild parties, crystal clear waters, and stunning landscapes. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and stay hydrated! Here are a few of our top favorites: Islas Baleares Ibiza Ibiza…

Spain is a country full of world class beaches. Whether you’re on the Iberian Peninsula or one of the many Spanish isles scattered around the world. It has some of the most famous coasts in the world and beaches that…

When most people think of Pablo Picasso, they think of France and his famous works at the Louvre in Paris. But, Pablo was a Spanish man through and through. Barcelona is known as a city of the arts and that…

The information below has been collected by the Citylife team via intense research. Please keep in mind that we are not directly related to any legal or government departments and the information may be subject to change. How to obtain…

The information below has been collected by the Citylife team via intense research in collaboration with Proyecto Océano, one of Barcelona’s most known legal associations. Please keep in mind that we are not directly related to any legal or government…

The information below has been collected by the Citylife team via intense research in collaboration with Proyecto Océano, one of Barcelona’s most known legal associations. Please keep in mind that we are not directly related to any legal or government…

There’s a lot of things to do in Barcelona. You’ll probably find yourself seduced by the exciting nightlife and the social scene! But most importantly, Barcelona is a city of art, culture and architecture. If you haven’t explored the cultural…

Hi everyone! I’m Emma and I bring the french touch to the Citylife team! I come from the center of France, in middle of the French volcanos. I love partying with my friends, cooking and playing sports. I use to…

“[Spaniards] are quite sophisticated people who live in a time warp or an alternative universe where the greatest joy imaginable is to eat, drink, and talk.” -Ann & Lorry Walker, A Season In Spain There are several conflicting accounts of…

Want to impress your friends with a classic Spanish dish? Want to spend less than 10 minutes preparing it? Make pan con tomate (pa amb tomàquet in Catalan)! The name translates to bread with tomato and that’s exactly what it…

Every country has their own typical alcohol that encompasses the general character of their culture. Whether it’s classy wines, exciting cocktails, strong liquors or smooth beers! In Spain, there is an assortment of alcoholic beverages to choose from if you…

Who is Citylife Barcelona? Well, thats a great question! As we like to say, “We are a an organization made by internationals, for internationals.” The company was originally founded in Madrid where our international community has grown with great success….

Whether you’re touring through Europe on a backpacking adventure, heading out for a quick weekend getaway or going for a year long study abroad experience, you will always have a list of attractions and sites to visit where ever you…

Barcelona is the capital of the Spanish region of Catalonia and the second largest city in the country. It’s the largest metropolis on the Mediterranean and receives more than 7.5 million visitors each year. But the statistics aside, Barcelona is…

Rooftops are a popular trend no matter where you go, but there is just something about Barcelona that reigns supreme. Whether you’re overlooking the beach, the ancient Gothic buildings, the Sagrada Familia or the peaceful suburbs, there is no undesirable…

Venir de visita a Barcelona es más que una buena opción, son muchos los motivos que hacen especialmente atractiva esta ciudad. Por mencionar algunos; podemos comentar que uno de los principales atractivos que convencen a la mayoría de personas es…

Spain loves to fiesta and they especially love to fiesta in the beautiful streets of their great cities! Barcelona is epicentre of Catalunya and it’s the perfect city to visit if you want to experience Catalonian character! Mostly during the…

Spain is known as a country of passion. Passionate dancing, passionate food, passionate sports, passionate people and passionate art! Montserrat Caballé is one of the most famous women in opera and one of the many names on the list of exquisite…

You’re on your way to embarking on a journey of a lifetime – your year abroad. During this year you will test your limits, meet new, amazing people, broaden your horizons, have highs and lows, experience many firsts, and become…

Flamenco is an exceptionally special tradition here in Spain. So much so, that UNESCO even added it to their Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in 2010! The art of this Spanish dance is so diverse that you could attend a…

When spending a few months (or years) away from home it’s common that you will want to both send and receive some care packages with your loved ones. But sending courier packages internationally is never as easy as it sounds….

Europe in the summer is a hotbed for sun burnt tourists who are so focused on seeing the sites that they forget about what’s in their pockets or on their hips. Even the most responsible of tourists can arrive at…

Enjoy all the fitness you want from only 29,90€ per month! It can be tough to stay fit during your time abroad, with busy schedules, yummy Spanish food and unnatural party habits. But, thats where Duet Fit comes in! If you’re looking…

When translated, “hacerse el sueco“ means ‘to play Swedish’. But in reality it isn’t meant to be any kind of insult to the Swedish people. Actually, the expression is derived from the Latin word Latin “soccus” which means “log”.  So, if you “play…

This is a really fun one because literally translated it makes almost no sense, but it’s actually a really happy and positive thing. “Está que te cagas” literally means “you shit yourself”. But, colloquially it means something like “you’re the…

“…Puta Madre” is one of those expressions that can be used in a wide variety of ways. You can use it when you’re happy, when you’re angry, when you’re excited, when you’re scared, and so on. Directly translated “puta” can…

You can’t do much without internet these days. But, during the first few days of your time in Barcelona you might find yourself wifi-less. This could pose a problem if you still need to find an apartment, need to get…

Lets get the kitchen warmed up again with our Spanish Kitchen series! Have you perfected the recipe for Tortilla de Patatas from our last issue? This time, we’re experimenting with something a little more complicated with just as much diversity…

When you are fresh off the plane in Barcelona the last thing you will want to do is stress about how to get where you need to go. You could jump on the metro or take a bus – which…

  During your time abroad, your friends and family will probably want to send you some care packages now and then and vice versa – especially if you can’t make it home for special occasions like Christmas and birthdays! If…

Packlink is an amazing shipping website that lets you ship packages worldwide at extremely competitive rates! You can save up to 70% off of shipments by choosing Packlink over other couriers. Their objective is to provide the highest of quality delivery…

Traveling used to be about disconnecting from normal life and becoming one with the world. In the past, bringing a mobile with you while abroad was a luxury most people didn’t have. But, it’s all changed now! Everyone has a…

Not everyone can afford a lifestyle of taxi rides around the big city. But for those desperate times, like an unexpected rainy day or travelling to and from the airport, a cab can always save the day! myTaxi is one…

Nowadays it’s pretty much essential to be updated on everything that is going in the world around us. Whether your keeping in touch with family and friends, making plans and checking out all your apps on a frequent basis. There is…

Keeping up with the Barcelona lifestyle can be pretty expensive mostly because the culture revolves around being out and about. Out for a coffee, for drinks, a visit to the famous museums, meeting up at the fabulous boardwalk terraces –…

Nothing sounds quite as good as a late breakfast on a Sunday morning. Whether you’re a morning person or a hungover person looking for some remedy. You get to sleep in knowing you have a delicious meal coming your way later that…

The World’s Fair or Exposition is a famous event, which allows innovators and designers of the world to come together and display their newest ideas to an international audience. It all started in Paris with the French Industrial Exposition in…

Since the very beginning of the urbanization of Barcelona’s Montjuïc hill, there was a plan to make the top of the hill a centre for art and culture. Or “a great Temple of Art, a summary and compendium of our…

Flamenco, the fiery dance as old as Spain itself. We’ve all heard of it, it’s probably one of the first things that comes to mind when thinking about Spain and the Spanish culture. But where did it come from? What…

In parts 1-3 we covered the Old City, Eixample, Gràcia and Sagrada Família. This time we will be covering the lovely Sants & Montjuïc neighbourhoods. The area is made of the modern barrio of Sants and the nature filled Montjuïc Mountain…

In part 1 we discussed the Old City, known as Ciutat Vella. And in part 2 we discussed the massive Eixample neighbourhood of Barcelona. Now, in part 3 we will discuss two special regions of the city, both known as…

In part 1 we focused on the Ciutat Vella region of Barcelona, the “Old City”. In part two we are going to look at the largest central region of the city, known as Eixample. The name itself means “extension” and…

Barcelona is unarguably Spain’s most famous city. There are many things about the city that makes people flock to Catalonia from all over the world. It’s the second largest city in the country, it’s home to some of the most famous…

Barcelona is a city made to dazzle its visitors. The decorated plazas, the breathtaking coastline, the romantic architecture – it’s all a part of the Barcelona experience. One of the most iconic things to see during your time in Barcelona…

Antoni Gaudi is the famous Monderisme architect from Catalonia, Spain. He was famous for his groundbreaking ideas that changed Barcelona’s fate and position in the world of art and architecture. The majority of Gaudi’s buildings have been given the title of World Heritage…