AnneLise Sorensen: I'd say that you'd need at least five full days and nights in Barcelona to enjoy the flavor the city--this gives you enough time to visit the top Gaudi sights, along with a couple of museums, and then have ample time for leisurely evenings over tapas at outdoor restaurants. Of course, if you can extend your visit, then you could easily spend as long as two weeks here--or longer--and find plenty to fill your days. Enjoy Barcelona!

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Seattle, Wash.: Hi. I have plans to go Barcelona for the weekend of October 3-5 for a concert. Please give advice on were to stay that is clean and cheap.

--Leticia

AnneLise Sorensen: Leticia, Barcelona is jam-packed with budget hostales and pensiones, particularly in the Old Town. One recommended spot is the Hostal Residencia Rembrandt (C Portaferrissa 23, 93/318-1011); you could also try Hostal Jardi (Pl Sant Josep Oriol, 93/301-5900). Enjoy the concert--and Barcelona!

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Cherry Hill, N.J.: We will get to spend only 2 days in Barcelona, Spain this October. What do you suggest for a couple of first time visitors? Also, is there anything we should be wary of?

AnneLise Sorensen: Hola--with two days, I would suggest that you spend at least a morning or afternoon strolling Las Ramblas, from the sea to Placa Catalunya, and the Gothic Quarter to view the lovely cathedral, which rises above Placa de la Seu. A hint: if you visit on Saturday (around 6pm) or Sunday (around noon), keep your eyes peeled for people dancing the sardanes, Catalonia's regional dance. I'd also fit in a visit to at least one of architect Antoni Gaudi's fanciful creations--the Sagrada Familia, for example--along with a stroll on stately Passeig de Gracia, which is peppered with numerous Modernista buildings. As for museums, it depends on your interests, but as I've recommended to other readers, try the Museu Picasso, which is housed in a medieval palace complex.

As for what should you be wary of? Barcelona is relatively safe, but do be especially careful of your belongings when you're roaming Las Ramblas and the Old Town, where theft, generally by pickpocketers, can occur. Carry as little cash as possible, and what you do carry keep in a moneybelt or in a bag that's securely strapped across your front. Note that pickpocketers often work tag-team style, so that while one is catching your attention (a tap on the shoulder, spilling water at your table) the other could be swiping your wallet. Again, Barcelona is generally quite safe, but it always pays (quite literally!) to be cautious. Bon viatge!

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Georgetown, Del.: I cannot drive. What are some transportation options for traveling between cities and sightseeing?

AnneLise Sorensen: Spain's train system, Renfe, is fast and efficient, and makes for an excellent way to travel between cities. Check their website, renfe.es, for details. Within Barcelona, you're spoiled for choice: there's the five-line metro system, which is convenient, easy-to-use and extensive; no matter where you are in the city, you'll likely be near a metro stop. You can also try the hop-on, hop-off Bus Turistic, which offers an excellent overview of the city. Have a good time in Barcelona!

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