Stock Catalan Phrases to Break the Ice with Locals

If you are traveling to Barcelona it’s important to remember many locals identify as Catalan and not Spanish.

Instead of addressing people in castellano, a good way of making friends is to learn how to say a few phrases in Catalan. While no one is expecting you to study for months for a short visit to the city, these phrases will help you make a friendly introduction.

Anyone who has studied Spanish will notice the languages are similar, but making the distinction can go a long way in Barcelona.

Bon dia – Hello

Com et dius? – What’s your name?

Molt de gust – Nice to meet you

D’on ets? – Where are you from?

Qant costa això? – How much is this?

No ho entenc – I don’t understand

Parla anglès – Do you speak English?

Dispensi – Excuse me

Sisplau – Please

Mercès – Thank you

While no one can pretend this limited set of phrases will be good for holding long conversations, the main aim is to demonstrate a willingness to try and speak Catalan. The local people are incredibly proud of their history and culture, and a Catalan separatist movement has been growing in strength in recent years.

Given the attitude of many people toward Spain and the Spanish language, trying out these Catalan phrases could mean a lot!