I’ve lived in Barcelona for years. Here are 6 things tourists should skip — and what they should do instead.

• I moved from the US to Barcelona about five years ago and love so much about the city.
• Enjoy views of Sagrada Familia from a nearby rooftop bar instead of crowding in front of it.
• Try Montjuïc instead of Park Guell or Badalona instead of Barceloneta Beach for fewer crowds.

With the picturesque beaches, Gaudi architecture, and mouthwatering tapas and wine it’s no wonder Barcelona is one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

After all, many of these things are what drew me here in the first place. Although I’m originally from Los Angeles, I have been lucky to live in Barcelona for about five years.

Here are some of my favorite things to do in Barcelona if you’re looking to dodge crowds and experience local culture.