2025 Barcelona | USET Foundation
 

Longines League of Nations Final

Barcelona, Spain
October 2-5, 2025

Venue Address

Real Club de Polo de Barcelona
Av. Dr. Marañón 19-31
08028 Barcelona, Spain

Competition Schedule

The full schedule can be found HERE.

Accessibility

There are designated and adapted areas and entrances, clearly marked on the venue map.

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Venue

PoloPark is an open-air festival within CSIO Barcelona that blends entertainment, gastronomy, music, and family-friendly activities.

It transforms the Polo Field into a dynamic and unique space, delivering fresh, healthy experiences and creative showcases, all inspired by equestrian tradition.

Tickets

All tickets include full-day access to the PoloPark.

Free entry to the PoloPark for children under 8, upon ID verification at the entrance. Tickets can be purchased  HERE.

Hospitality

For information on hospitality options, click HERE.

Parking

There is no designated public parking. We recommend using public transport or sustainable mobility services

Water & Food

Barcelona has some of the highest quality drinking water in the world. The Ministerio de Sanidad assesses all of Spain’s drinking water, and the agency has determined that tap water in Barcelona is safe to drink unfiltered, according to EU and World Health Organization standards. Stay away from raw foods and un-bottled drinks, unless in a reputable restaurant as a precaution.

Transport

Public Transport: There is public transportation in Barcelona which utilizes both buses and trains.

Taxi: Taxis use meters calculated by distance and time.

Rental Vehicles: For automatic vehicles, it is recommended to book a rental car with a large rental agency.

Ride-Sharing: There are apps that can be utilized to request a vehicle such as Uber and Lyft. The advised and safest method of travel is by taxi or car arranged by a hotel.

 

Weather

Average weather for October:

  • High Temperature: 73°F
  • Low Temperature: 62°F
  • Rainfall: 2.9”
  • Humidity: 72%

Suggested Clothing

A helpful rule of thumb is packing layers. During the day, it’ll probably be warm enough to wear a short-sleeve t-shirt, but it can be cool in the evening, so it’s wise to pack a warm layer or two.

Regarding bottoms, we recommend packing some long pairs of pants, skirts, and one pair of shorts. Pack a lightweight jacket that you don’t mind carrying if it warms up during the day.

Visas

Due to start in October 2025, U.S. citizens and non-E.U. nationals will need to complete The Entry/Exit System (EES) for all short-term stays to European countries. Registration and biometric data collection will be completed at a border control kiosk at the arrival airport. More information about EES can be found HERE.

It is the traveling individual’s responsibility to check any visa requirements.

When traveling abroad, U.S. citizens may enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Visit www.travel.state.gov for more information.

Airport

Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) – 10 mi / 16km

 

Vaccinations

In accordance with the CDC and USOPC recommendations, you may want to consider getting the seasonal flu vaccine. Please note it takes approximately two (2) weeks to maximize immunity.

About Barcelona

Barcelona is a major cultural center with a remarkable history. It abounds with archives, libraries, museums, and buildings of interest, featuring superb examples of Modernist and Art Nouveau decor and architecture. Since the late 1970s, with the official recognition of the Catalan language and the granting of significant levels of regional self-government, cultural life has been revitalized, bringing with it a new awareness of the depth and variety of Catalan culture. This vitality combines with the striking physical setting of Barcelona—between scenic mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, with a benign climate that fosters street life—and its significance as an economic power and a major port to create a city of infinite variety. For more information about Barcelona, click HERE.

Places to See

There are many things to see and do in Barcelona. For a guide, CLICK HERE for more information.

Accommodations

For more hotel options, CLICK HERE.

HOTELSWEBSITEDISTANCE FROM VENUE
Sercotel Rosellon Website Multiple locations
Hotel Upper Diagonal Website 1.9 mi / 3.1 km
El Palauet Website 3.7 mi / 6 km

Hospital & Emergency Services

NAMEADDRESSWEBSITE
Hospital de Barcelona Diagonal, 660 08034 Barcelona, Spain Website

Incident Management Guidelines

Security

In general, Barcelona, Spain is a safe area for its residents and visitors. However, security perception changes greatly by district. If you have any doubts or need to report an incident, you can rely on the Police who are constantly patrolling the streets.

Responsible care should be exercised when traveling throughout Barcelona. There is a normal level of crime, but it varies by district. In the higher-income areas frequented by tourists, petty theft is the most common concern. Travelers should keep valuables out of sight and be aware of their surroundings.

Avoid isolated areas when on foot, especially after dark. It is recommended to only use a trusted taxi or an app-based taxi service.

Do not hail a taxi on the street.

Assailants usually target victims for their smartphones, wallets, or purses. If confronted by someone with a weapon, it is best not to resist.

ATMs and Credit Cards

Major credit cards are widely accepted. Use of debit cards is widespread, although many stores impose a minimum per debit card purchase, and service charges may apply. Smaller establishments may accept cash only. You’ll find ATMs widely available in Barcelona if you need to withdraw Euros.

It is best to use ATMs inside banks instead of ATMs that are more accessible to passers-by and all banks advise customers to cover ATM keypads with their hands when entering codes.

When making credit card transactions, travelers should expect the vendor to use a credit card reader in their presence.

Security is the responsibility of everybody. Good security is the application of common sense. The key to good security is vigilance. Be aware of what is happening around you and always pay attention to anything that appears unusual or out of place. This includes people who appear nervous about their surroundings.

 

Safety List

The key to good security is vigilance. Be aware of what is happening around you and always pay attention to anything that appears unusual or out of place. This includes people who appear nervous about their surroundings.

  • Make a copy of your passport or real ID and travel documents and leave the original in a safe place.
  • Always travel in groups.
  • Do not overtly wear expensive jewelry.
  • Keep your phone hidden.
  • Do not carry excessive amounts of cash or credit cards if you do not need them.
  • If you are in a vehicle in standstill traffic with the windows rolled down, keep phones and other possessions low and away from windows and be mindful of people walking through the traffic.
  • Do not approach unattended bags, cases or packages – report them.
  • Do not accept packages from anyone, the contents of which are unclear.
  • Do not advertise where you are staying.
  • If you are out in the evening and you become aware of increased police activity, leave the area immediately.

If you see an incident involving the police, do not get involved. Do not play the good Samaritan.

Local Business Hours

Office hours: Monday through Friday from approximately 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Banks: typically open Monday through Friday from 8:30/9:00 a.m. until 2:00/2:30 p.m. Some branches are open Saturday mornings.

Shops: typically open Monday through Saturday from 9:00/10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

 

Currency & Exchange

The euro (€) is the official currency of Spain. If you need to exchange currency while in Barcelona, here are some options available in the city: 

  • Ria Money & Currency Exchange
  • Global Exchange

 

Travelers Checks

While traveler’s checks were once a popular way to carry money abroad, they are largely outdated and not recommended for use in Barcelona or other parts of Spain. 

Currency Exchange (continued)

Important considerations for exchanging currency:

  • Avoid Airport Exchange Counters: These locations typically offer the least favorable exchange rates and highest fees due to their convenience factor.
  • Compare Rates: Check current exchange rates online and compare the rates offered by different exchange providers to ensure you get the best deal.
  • Beware of “Zero Fee” Services: Offers of “no commission” or “zero fees” can be misleading as the cost is often built into unfavorable exchange rates.
  • Consider Using ATMs: Using a debit card to withdraw local currency from an ATM can offer better rates than exchanging cash, especially if your bank has partnerships with local banks in Spain. Remember to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card being flagged for suspicious activity.
  • Pay in Local Currency: When using a credit or debit card for purchases, choose to be charged in Euros to avoid unfavorable conversion fees that may be applied if you choose to pay in your home currency.

Utilize No Foreign Transaction Fee Cards: Consider using a travel debit or credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees when making purchases. 

 

Tipping

Tipping in Spain is not mandatory. However, leaving a small tip, such as rounding up the bill or leaving a few extra euros, is a common and appreciated way to acknowledge good service. 

  • Restaurants: Tipping is not expected, but a small tip of 1-2 euros per person is a nice gesture, especially for table service. If you received exceptional service, you can tip 5-10%.
  • Bars and Cafes: For a quick drink or snack, tipping isn’t necessary, but rounding up to the nearest euro is a common practice. 
  • Taxis:Tipping taxi drivers isn’t expected, but rounding up the fare is a common practice. 
  • Hotel staff:In general, tipping is more common in luxury hotels where staff may be more accustomed to receiving gratuities. However, in lower-budget hotels, tipping is not expected but still appreciated for good service. 

STEP

When traveling abroad, U.S. citizens may enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Visit travel.state.gov for more information.

ABOUT THE SERVICE Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll their trip abroad so the Department of State can accurately and quickly contact them in case of emergency.

BENEFITS
  • Get real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.
  • Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
  • Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.
Time to complete: 20 minutes

Consulate

Should you need to contact the U.S. consulate, the nearest one is the U.S. Consulate General in Barcelona.

U.S. Consulate General – Barcelona
Paseo Reina Elisenda de Montcada, 23
08034 Barcelona, España

(+34) 93 280 22 27

Language

In Barcelona, the official languages are Catalan and Spanish. While both are official, Catalan is the dominant language in offices and schools, and many public signs and documents are in Catalan with Spanish translations. Most residents of Barcelona are bilingual, speaking both languages fluently. 

While Spanish and Catalan are the official languages, English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and other places catering to international visitors. However, it’s worth noting that some older residents and taxi drivers may have limited English proficiency. 

Communications (phone, WiFi, and internet)

Cell phone coverage in Barcelona is generally excellent, especially in the city center and major areas. Most major carriers offer strong 4G and 5G coverage, including in the metro, shopping centers, and even on some beaches. While remote areas and mountainous regions might experience weaker signals, Barcelona’s urban environment is well-covered. Contact your phone provider for more information on Sim Cards and International Data Plans.

Electrical

Power in Spain operates on a 230-volt current and a 50 hertz frequency. Electricity will be supplied through a Type C (rounded two-prong) or Type F (rounded two-prong with two earth clips).

Universal Power Adapters can easily be purchased before travel.

Food

Spanish cuisine is a diverse culinary landscape, influenced by Mediterranean flavors and regional specialties. Key elements include fresh seafood, olive oil, and a focus on quality ingredients. Iconic dishes range from tapas to paella, with regional variations adding unique twists. 

Local Restaurants

Some examples of typical dishes:

  • Tapas: Small, shareable plates, perfect for sampling a variety of flavors. 
  • Paella: A rice dish, originally from Valencia, known for its saffron-infused flavors and seafood or meat additions. 
  • Chorizo: A flavorful Spanish sausage made from pork, often fermented, cured, and smoked.
  • Gazpacho: A cold tomato-based soup made with a base of fresh, raw vegetables that are blended together. Key ingredients typically include tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, water, vinegar, onions, cucumbers, and green peppers. 
  • Salmorejo: A cold tomato-based soup primarily made with ripe tomatoes, bread (often stale), extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and sometimes sherry vinegar. The bread acts as a thickening agent, giving it its characteristic richness.
  • Pintxos: A type of Spanish appetizer, similar to tapas. They are typically small, bite-sized portions of food, often served on a slice of bread and held together with a toothpick or skewer. The name “pintxo” comes from the verb “pinchar,” meaning “to skewer.”
  • Churros: A fried pastry usually rolled in cinnamon sugar and sometimes filled with caramel, chocolate or dulce de leche.
  • Leche Frita: Leche frita, meaning “fried milk,” is a traditional Spanish dessert. It is a sweet, firm milk-pudding encased in a crunchy, fried shell of eggs and flour, often flavored with cinnamon, lemon zest, and sometimes orange zest.
  • Crema Catalana: Similar to crème brulee, Crema Catalana, also known as or crema quemada (“burnt cream”), is a traditional Spanish dessert that originated in Catalonia. It’s a custard dessert with a signature caramelized sugar crust on top. 

This is just a sample of restaurants in the area. For more dining options, click HERE.

RESTAURANTWEBSITEDISTANCE FROM VENUE
Dining options at the venue. Website On venue grounds.
Jacqueline Barcelona Website 2.8 mi / 4.5 km
Bodega Biarritz Website 10 mi / 16.4 km