For old time's sake, you might try the Restaurant of Seven Doors on Paseo de Isabel II, the oldest eatery in town. If you have time, don't miss the side trip to the nearby resort village of Sitges, about 25 miles south of Barcelona. Established as an art colony, this picturesque seaside village charms with its whitewashed cafes, craggy old church and splashes of blue sea that nibble at the shoreline. The Museu Cau Ferrat, dedicated to artist Santiago Rusinol, and the Maricel de Mar Museum offer plenty to see at a small fee. The airport is about seven miles from the city center.
Taxis are inexpensive, with an added fee for extra luggage.
Main languages are Catalan and Spanish. English is spoken in most hotels and tourist operations, but high-school Spanish would be helpful. All kinds of bus tours are available, from city tours to tours of the coastline, the mountain area and the Costa Brava. Tipping is not generally expected except when some special effort has been made. The Mediterranean climate is often gorgeous in the springtime and fall, hot and humid in July and August.