Barcelona — By thebarcelonaguide on December 22, 2009 at 8:20 am
Filed under: barcelona parties, New Year's Eve, New Years Day

5 New Year’s Eve Tips: Barcelona 2010

New Year’s Eve is a popular time to visit any large city in Europe. No matter where you go, prices are higher, hotels are booked and the mood is festive. Certainly, Barcelona is no exception. After having spent 4 New Year’s in Barcelona, I have for you today a few tips to make the 2009 – 2010 stress free.

New Year's Eve in Barcelona. By Regina Winkle-Bryan

1- BOOK

The early bird catches the worm. Hotels, hostels and pensiones will be full this time of year, so the sooner you make a reservation the better. Also, expect to pay more and be asked to stay a minimum number of nights. (Consider a stay at Hotel Omm! )

2- RESERVE

The same thing goes for restaurants. Many places will be closed for the holiday, but some restaurants will be open. They will offer a special menu for the evening with a set price ranging between 50 Euros and 200 Euros (or more!). This set price includes wine, 3 courses and grapes and cava at the end…usually. Again, the good spots fill up quickly.

3 – TAXI

You can almost forget about getting a cab from 3 to 5 am, when most people head home. Expect long lines, walk, or stay out until the sun comes up and have a coffee and a croissant to bring in 2010.

4 – DRESS IT UP

Barcelona is a laid-back city and locals are not as dressy here as in Madrid or Rome. New Year’s could be the exception. It’s a party! Put on your best duds and have an elegant night out on the town.

5 – BE SAFE

Last year I lost my wallet and/or was robbed without my knowing it on New Year’s Eve. Truth be told, I had had some cava and was, as my dad likes to say ‘ feeling no pain’. However, my wallet story is a good lesson in that pickpockets will be about on this crowded night, and you should keep a hold of your head and your purse.

Happy New Year and may 2010 be a bright one!