We land at BCN at 8AM. What do we do until 3PM when we can check into our hotel? What tours are available, and is that a wise idea after arriving in the AM on a red-eye? What's the weather like there in mid-October? Thanks!
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
Dump your luggage at the hotel, they'll keep if for you until you're ready to check in. Then wander, tours empty your pocketbook and take the fun out of exploring.
Posted by
Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada
629 posts
I agree with Ed - there is so much to see and do just wandering around Barcelona....it will be 3PM before you know it!!
Posted by
Portland
3642 posts
You could take a ride on one of the HOHO buses. There are 2, or maybe 3, routes, which provide a nice orientation to the city. They're also a good thing to do when you're jet-lagged, since you can hop off only as much as you wish. As I recall, there's a TI office in Placa Catalunya where you can buy the tickets. I would drop the luggage at the hotel first, though. You might get lucky, and they'll let you check in.
Posted by
naches, wa, usa
182 posts
the metro is awesome in barcelona as it is in most of spain. it is easy and quick to get around. drop off the bags and go. you have all of the antoni gaudi sights really close, the ramblas should not be missed. you will wish you had more time. i don't think you need a tour, you can do it. sagrada familla and parc guell could easily fill your time, and that would be an awesome day in barcelona, one of the best days in all of europe. have fun, be safe.
Posted by
Calgary
2297 posts
"is that a wise idea after arriving in the AM on a red-eye?" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . It is a VERY good idea to walk around outside to catch as much sun light as possible. That is one of the top recommendations to fight jet lag.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23622 posts
There is a good possibility that you can check in when you get to your hotel if the room is available. We were in Barcelona last October, weather great, got a great local walking tour from TI in the plaza at the top of La Ramblas. The guide used ear buds which was great because you could wander around some instead of having to focus you full attention on the guide.
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12313 posts
I agree with Beatrix, the best way to stay awake is to stay active (preferably in sunshine). I try to arrive with as many hours of sleep as possible during the flight over, four is the minimum (according to the Marines) to get by on. Once on the ground, I ditch my bags (either in a train station locker or hotel that I'll check into later) and plan a day of sightseeing on foot. Lunch is on the go. Dinner, after sunset, is casual and relaxing and hopefully takes me to a decent bed time. After a full night's sleep and I'm at least 80 percent by the next morning.