We are visiting Barcelona for three days as part of a two-week road trip to Provence. While researching, I discovered that our Barcelona stay coincides with the final days of the La Merce' festival. I'm torn between enjoying the fun and excitement of the festival and being overwhelmed by extra crowds and jet lag just as we arrive. Our goal is to explore the city and sights. I'm concerned that the festival crowds might impact our sightseeing as well as hotel accommodations. We could adjust our itinerary and save Barcelona for the end of the trip. I'd appreciate pros and cons from folks who know more about the La Merce' festival.
Posted by
Washington DC
28083 posts
I remembered a recent discussion about the festival, so I did a search and found these earlier forum threads:
September 2016 : The take-aways here are the need to book your lodging early to avoid sticker shock and a link to this year's program, to give you an idea of what you may experience.
Posted by
Mid-Atlantic area
7159 posts
My wife and I were in Barcelona in 2006 during the festival (by chance since we didn't know about it) and it shouldn't be missed. There are a lot of events that take place mostly in the area by the cathedral. The festival did not impact our sightseeing at all. At the festival's events, like watching the castelleres (human tower) in Juame plaza it is wall to wall people, literally. Just beware of pickpockets. As for a hotel, if you definitely know the dates you'll be there make your hotel reservations. We stayed at the Balmes hotel; nice location for Gaudi's houses an Sagrada Familia and within walking distance to the festival's events without being right in the crowds. I