Travel to Barcelona

We have just come back from Barcelona. You don't have to worry about anything. We were there during one of the demonstrations. It was peaceful and respectful of people around the demonstration. Placa Catalunya is a fantastic place to be. Enjoy and don't worry.

‘Civil unrest’ implies a breakdown of order, public obstructions, riots, sabotage and a general state of chaos. None of this is currently occurring in Barcelona. Large public gatherings, demonstrations and political rallies do not constitute ‘civil unrest’.

Thank you so much helensn1234! I was worried because I had read a post from someone that stated it was too crowded to even enjoy the city, we were so disappointed by this. We love to get out and explore all we can while we are visiting different places. Had also read that roads are closed frequently and we were unsure if this would effect our getting to the airport to leave. I am glad to hear from a tourist who has been there recently. We were not planning on changing our plans of going to the city just maybe relocating somewhere closer to the airport just in case, thanks again for your response.

We’re in Spain now and will be in Barcelona at the end of the month and the start of December and will try to report on site.

The latest I’ve seen is that the US Govt. reports general increased concerns for the upcoming end of year 2017 holidays based upon past trends. The UK Govt. just downgraded the potential threat and trouble levels. The UK Govt. Spanish info page is definitely better, more complete and more frequently updated.

What is likely to be the big event is the next election vote scheduled for December 21, 2017. Between the separatists and the unionists the outcome will IMO likely spawn a new round of celebrations or protests - probably filling the streets all over again. I’m happy my plans have me headed home well before that.

"...and will try to report on site"

No offence, but if anyone needs an "on site, accurate and up to date" report at any time, simply ask...you all in the forum know that, I always answer, don't I? Yet specific questions, please.

I was born here, I live here and I'm in the loop in this particular matter.... that if a "local's opinion" is deemed to be trustworthy, that is :))

I just returned from Spain last night and flew in from BCN airport. For me and my trip, I ended up switching Valencia for Barcelona for the last few days but this was for my needs and not wanting to be stressing about strikes (not demonstrations) all the other 'in country' weeks. In the end I am glad I did it this way, because Barcelona needs energy and I was both cultured out and sick by end of trip. I will return for its own trip at another time.
However, the numerous people I spoke with were all positive about their time in Barcelona. Yes, there were occasional gatherings, but it was all dependent on where you happened to be at any given time.
If you decide to move hotels, I can recommend the Salles Ciudat dels Prat near the airport. It was the quietest airport hotel I have ever used. Small indoor pool, airport shuttle, close to train station for a zip into town.

My wife and I recently returned from 5 nights in Barcelona at the beginning of November. We saw no signs of any problems/issues/concerns at all. The only indication of any issues were alot of Catalonian flags being flown on apartments throughout the town. But there was nothing at all that gave us any concern or fear. Our hotel was also at Plaza Catalunya (Hotel Catalonia Portal del Angel) - and again - no problems at all. I strongly encourage you to not change your hotel location - its a great staging area for visiting the city.

Have a wonderful trip!