A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Barcelona vs. Washington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Barcelona or Washington?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Barcelona and Washington can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a laid-back, historic, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Barcelona and Washington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Basilica Sagrada Familia
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less active music scene
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Barcelona or Washington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Barcelona than Washington, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Barcelona is more popular for its nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Washington is known for its museums, theatre productions, food, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Barcelona is more touristy than Washington and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also home to Basilica Sagrada Familia. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums.

How is Barcelona different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Washington and Barcelona. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Barcelona or Washington?

Barcelona
Washington

Washington is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Washington that are not to be missed. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.


Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Theater?

Barcelona
Washington

Washington is a well-known place for theatre. However, Barcelona is not a theatre destination.

Washington attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Barcelona is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Barcelona or Washington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Barcelona
Washington

Washington is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Washington have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona
Washington

Barcelona is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Barcelona just to party. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.


Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Music?

Barcelona
Washington

Barcelona is a world-class destination for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

Barcelona is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Beaches?

Barcelona
Washington

Barcelona is very good for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Barcelona to enjoy the beach. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Barcelona or Washington Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona
Washington

Barcelona is great for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Washington does not have a historic old town.


Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Hiking?

Barcelona
Washington

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Barcelona or Washington?

Barcelona
Washington

Barcelona is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Barcelona. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Christmas?

Barcelona
Washington

Washington is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Barcelona does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination during the Christmas season. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Barcelona does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Families?

Barcelona
Washington

Washington is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Washington is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Couples?

Barcelona
Washington

Washington is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona
Washington

Barcelona is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.


Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Students?

Barcelona
Washington

Barcelona and Washington are both amazing destinations for students and younger travelers.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Is Barcelona or Washington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona
Washington

Washington is renowned for its public transit. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Washington has a great public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Barcelona or Washington a more walkable city?

Barcelona
Washington

Washington is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.


For even more information, also check out Is Barcelona Worth Visiting? and Is Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Barcelona?

How long in Barcelona or Washington?

Both Barcelona and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Washington has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Washington than Barcelona. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Washington than Barcelona. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Washington, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Washington than Barcelona. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Washington that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Washington if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Barcelona.


  • How many days in Barcelona or Washington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Barcelona 3-7 
    Washington 3-7

One day in Barcelona or Washington?

When visiting Barcelona, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find museums and theater around the city of Washington. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Barcelona or Washington?

When visiting Barcelona, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the international big city of Washington. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Barcelona or Washington?

Barcelona, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the active city of Washington. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


A week in Barcelona or Washington?

Barcelona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Washington is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Washington, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Washington or Barcelona?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Barcelona is $169, while the average daily cost in Washington is $198. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Barcelona and Washington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Barcelona $105
    Washington $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Barcelona $210
    Washington $226
Compare Hotels in Barcelona and Washington

Looking for a hotel in Barcelona or Washington? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Barcelona


Hotels in Washington


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Barcelona Hotel Prices and Washington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Barcelona $21
    Washington $47
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Barcelona are as follows:


  • 10 Trip Metro Ticket
    $8.49
  • Airport Bus
    $5.44
  • Metro
    $2.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Barcelona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Barcelona:

  • Private Transfer Barcelona - Benidorm: $532
  • Private Transfer from Barcelona to Figueres: $295
  • Barcelona Private Transfer from Barcelona Airport to PortAventura hotels: $292
  • transfer with wheelchair Accessible from Bcn airport/ port/city: $288
  • Private Transfer from Barcelona to Girona City (or vice versa): $286
  • Private Transfer Tarragona Port to Barcelona/Hotels: $286
  • Private Transfer from Barcelona to Tarragona Cruise Terminal: $283
  • Montserrat Half Day Private Guided Tour with Transfers: $275
  • Barcelona to Andorra Private Transfer: $271
  • Private Transfer from Barcelona to Tossa de Mar/ Lloret de Mar: $264
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Barcelona Airport to Sitges: $264
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to/from Lloret de Mar: $260

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
  • Private Departure Transfer to Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $43
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Washington Reagan Airport DCA: $43
  • Private Departure Transfer to Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $56
  • Washington Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $59
  • Washington City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $64
  • Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • Private Transfer in Washington DC: $70
  • Washington to Baltimore Airport (BWI) Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Washington City to Dulles Airport: $88
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Washington Dulles Airport to Washington City: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Barcelona or Washington?

Prices for flights to both Washington and Barcelona change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Barcelona $36
    Washington $38
Typical Food Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of dining costs in Barcelona are as follows:


  • Hot Cocoa & Churro
    $4.52
  • Sandwich
    $1.85
  • Baguette & Horchata
    $4.14
  • Tapas on the beach
    $9.02
  • Gelatto
    $2.72

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Barcelona

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Barcelona.

  • Barcelona Street Food Tour with Local Market & City Center Visit: $21
  • Barcelona Guided Street Food Tour and Gothic Quarter Visit: $21
  • Walking Tour + Flamenco + Tapas Dinner (choose options): $27
  • Flamenco at El Patio Andaluz with Optional Dinner: $27
  • Hard Rock Cafe Barcelona with Set Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Tasty Barcelona Street Food Tour With Local Market Visit : $32
  • La Barceloneta: Tapas Food Tour: $38
  • Barcelona La Barceloneta Tapas Food Tour: $38
  • Barcelona Street Food Tour: Local Market & Gothic Quarter with Expert Guide: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas 5-Course Pairing Dinner: $60
  • Wine Tasting & Tapas Pairing Dinner: $60
  • Paella Cooking Experience and Wine in Barcelona: $61

Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Washington DC: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $60
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Small-Group Capitol Hill Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $98
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington DC Signature Dinner Cruise: $121
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC:Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $140
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $152
  • Washington DC Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $161

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Barcelona $36
    Washington $24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Barcelona are as follows:


  • Picasso Walking Tour and Museum Pass
    $46
  • Souvenir Gaudi Book
    $9.31
  • Admission to Museo Picasso
    $6.53

Tours and Activities in Barcelona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Barcelona are as follows:

  • Barcelona Christmas Walking Tour: $30
  • Barcelona Sunset Sailing Experience : $131
  • Cruise into Barcelona? Get the Most out of Your Visit!: $55
  • Dali Museum, Besalu & Girona Tour from Barcelona by Fast Train : $121
  • Girona and Costa Brava with Lunch: VIP Small Group Tour: $190
  • Montserrat Mountains Half - Day Private Tour - From Barcelona : $264
  • Private Guides Barcelona Tour with Skip The Line in Cathedral: $219
  • Private Mountain Bike Tour in Barcelona: $33
  • Sagrada Familia "Fast Track" Guided Tour in Barcelona: $107
  • Sagrada Familia Bike Tour in Small Group: $87
  • Sagrada Familia Comedy Tour: $3.28
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - Legends of the Gothic Quarter: $10

Tours and Activities in Washington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Washington.

  • DC's Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Scandals & Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Kennedy Homes of Georgetown: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington, DC: Lincoln Assassination Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington DC: National Mall Self Guided App Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Washington, D.C: National Air & Space Museum Audio Tour (EN): $9.00
  • The National Mall: Walking In App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • D.C: White House Museum & President's Park Audio Tour (EN): $9.00
  • DC: National Museum of the American Indian Audio Tour (ENG): $10
  • DC: Smithsonian American History Museum Audio Tour (EN): $10
  • Washington, DC: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Washington DC Monuments Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Barcelona $18
    Washington $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Barcelona

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Barcelona:

  • Estrella Damm Brewery Guided Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Pub Crawl with VIP Venue Access and Welcome Shots: $16
  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by King - Free shot with VIP Entry: $16
  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by KING - Nightlife Party Experience: $16
  • Night Pub Crawl Tour in Barcelona: $16
  • Estrella Damm Brewery in El Prat de Llobregat tour with Tasting: $16
  • Estrella Damm Old Brewery Tour with Tasting: $22
  • Pub Crawl Barcelona by EVOLVE The BEST night experience: $22
  • Estrella Damm Old Brewery Barcelona Guided Tour with Beer Tasting: $22
  • Barcelona Pub Crawl by KING - Free shot and VIP Entry: $22
  • Go out like a local, pub Crawl / Tour in Raval - Barcelona: $24
  • Barcelona Bar Crawl: $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Barcelona and Washington, we can see that Washington is more expensive. And not only is Barcelona much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Barcelona is in Europe and Washington is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Barcelona would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Barcelona and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington than you might in Barcelona.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Barcelona Expensive? and Is Washington Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Barcelona or Washington?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Barcelona and Washington, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Barcelona or Washington?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Barcelona or Washington in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Barcelona as well as Washington. Many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Barcelona is cooler than Washington in the summer. The daily temperature in Barcelona averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In the summer, Barcelona often gets more sunshine than Washington. Barcelona gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in July than Washington. Barcelona gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Barcelona 23°C (73°F) 
    Washington 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Barcelona or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington and Barcelona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Barcelona is a little warmer than Washington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Barcelona in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Washington averages at about 60°F (15°C).

Barcelona usually receives less sunshine than Washington during autumn. Barcelona gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Barcelona usually receives more rain than Washington. Barcelona gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Barcelona 17°C (63°F) 
    Washington 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Barcelona or Washington in the Winter?

Both Washington and Barcelona during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. In January, Barcelona is generally much warmer than Washington. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 9°C (48°F), and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Barcelona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Washington. Barcelona gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in January than Washington. Barcelona gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Barcelona 9°C (48°F) 
    Washington 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Barcelona or Washington in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Barcelona and Washington. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Barcelona is around the same temperature as Washington in the spring. The daily temperature in Barcelona averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. Barcelona usually receives less sunshine than Washington during spring. Barcelona gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Washington. Barcelona gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Barcelona 13°C (55°F) 
    Washington 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Washington and Barcelona

Barcelona Washington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 16°C (61°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 20°C (67°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)