Complete guide to the Barcelona neighbourhoods

January 27, 2023January 27, 2023Natàlia Gibernau

The most popular Barcelona neighbourhoods range from the city’s historic quarters to up-and-coming areas designed with the citizen in mind.

In this complete guide to the Barcelona neighbourhoods, we explore the different areas of the city to take sure you don’t miss out on the culture, history and diversity each one brings.

Whether you’re looking for a jam-packed afternoon in areas bustling with tourists and locals alike or a quiet stroll along the beach, Barcelona and its neighbourhoods have something for everyone.

El Gòtic or the Gothic quarter

Arguably the most historic of the Barcelona neighbourhoods, here you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time. Discover the origins of the city and its Roman ruins at the Museu d’Història and get lost exploring in its charming medieval streets with artisan stores and hidden bars and cafés.

The true heart of the city is also home to Barcelona’s stunning cathedral in Gothic Catalan style, the Pont del Bisbe bridge – one of the city’s most photographed spots – and Plaça Reial, a stunning square and popular nightlife spot. Discover our one-day guide to the Gothic quarter here.

Our modern three-bedroom Macca apartment is located in this Barcelona neighbourhood steeped in history and is a perfect choice to explore it.

Barcelona Neighbourhoods - Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) — Barcelona Neighbourhoods – Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)

El Born

El Born is one of our favourite Barcelona neighbourhoods and if you’ve read our Born guide you’ll know why: picturesque squares, thought-provoking museums, traditional bars and innovative eateries, not forgetting its alternative boutiques.

If you’re looking for things to do in El Born, we’d recommend going to a concert at the Palau de la Música concert hall to experience this modernist gem in all its glory. The Basilica Santa Maria del Mar is one of the city’s oldest churches with stunning stained glass windows, and makes for the perfect afternoon plan.

Barcelona neighbourhoods - El Born — Barcelona neighbourhoods – El Born

Eixample Dreta and Eixample Esquerra

This expansion district has become synonymous with Barcelona. We can’t get enough of its stunning architecture, wide avenues and sophisticated vibe. This Barcelona neighbourhood spans north of Plaça de Catalunya, encompassing Passeig de Gràcia – with either side being referred to as ‘Right’ (Dreta) and ‘Left’ (Esquerra).

This extensive neighbourhood has something for everyone, from shopping for the latest luxury brands, discovering art at the Fundació Antoni Tàpies, or marvelling at masterpieces by Antoni Gaudí – including Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and the Sagrada Família.

You can discover more about this beautiful area our complete guide to Eixample here. And if you’ve fallen in love with Eixample Esquerra, we’d recommend staying in our romantic ArtBlue penthouse with two bedrooms.

Barcelona neighbourhoods - Eixample — Barcelona neighbourhoods – Eixample

Gràcia

One of the most charming of the Barcelona neighbourhoods is Gràcia: once the holiday destination of those who lived in the centre of the city, this small village was eventually engulfed by the metropolis and now forms part of it.

Explore this Barcelona neighbourhood on foot to soak up its village atmosphere and enjoy its pretty squares. It’s also home to Gaudí’s first project: the summerhouse of Casa Vicens, and it’s also within walking distance of the marvellous Parc Güell.

Barcelona neighbourhoods - Gracia — Barcelona neighbourhoods – Gràcia

Barceloneta and Port Vell

Once the fishing quarter of the city, this Barcelona neighbourhood is now one of the most popular given its seafront location. This urban beach area is also perfect for catching some rays, playing volley ball and exploring its numerous outdoor brunch stops, coffee shops, bars and restaurants.

Barceloneta is also close to the city’s Port Vell (Old Port) at the end of La Rambla, the Maritime Museum and the city’s aquarium, a perfect plan for those visiting with family.

To explore this Barcelona neighbourhood more, we’d recommend our stunning one-bedroom Colonial apartment on Passeig Colom, which combines traditional elements with modern design.

Barcelona neighbourhoods - Barceloneta — Barcelona Neighbourhoods – Barceloneta

Raval

One of the most alternative, multicultural Barcelona neighbourhoods, Raval is brimming with street vibe. Home to cultures from all over the world, this area enjoys great diversity – visible above all in its diverse cuisine, second-hand stores and eclectic bars.

Raval is also home to MACBA – the Contemporary Art Museum of Barcelona – which celebrates the most up-and-coming artists with regular exhibitions and workshops. This wonderful neighbourhood also runs parallel to one of the most famous streets in Barcelona – La Rambla. Our three-bedroom Parsifal apartment is just off the La Rambla and steps away from its Liceu Opera House, which opened in 1847.

Barcelona Neighbourhoods - El Raval — Barcelona Neighbourhoods – El Raval

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The Barcelona Calendar 2023 – Holidays and festivities to plan your year

January 5, 2023January 5, 2023Natàlia Gibernau

Here is the Barcelona Calendar 2023, with everything you need to plan the upcoming year, with a total of 14 national holidays to which local councils can add up to four additional holidays.

So whether you’re planning a New Year’s getaway, and Easter break or a summer holiday, don’t forget to check our Barcelona Calendar 2023 to plan your trip in advance and enjoy some of the local festivities the city has to offer.

Sunday, 1 January: New Year’s Day

Happy New Year!

The first day of the Barcelona Calendar 2023 is normally a family affair – think a large meal or recovering from the night before.

We recommend checking your favourite bars and restaurants in advance to confirm whether or not they’ll be open. If you’re looking for some local recommendations, check out our favourite Catalan restaurants in Barcelona.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Friday, 6 January: Three King’s Day

Three King’s Day celebrates the arrival of the Three Wise Men in Bethlehem, bearing gifts for baby Jesus, also known as the Epiphany or Twelfth Night. This day is celebrated throughout Spain with gifts, roscón – a sweet brioche-like pastry seasoned with orange blossom and topped with candied fruit – and a local procession, or cabalgata on 5 January.

Check out our article on Three King’s Day in Barcelona to make sure you don’t miss out on the festivities!

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Sunday, 12 February: Santa Eulàlia

Santa Eulàlia is known as the daughter or second patron saint of Barcelona. She is also the patron saint of sailors and is said to protect against droughts and provide safety when travelling via sea.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Thursday, 16–22 February: Carnival

The dates of Carnaval, or Carnival, change every year as this holiday takes place seven weeks after the first full moon after the winter solstice. Join in the celebrations in Barcelona!

Working day? Yes

Will shops open? Yes

Sunday, 2 April – Saturday, 8 April: Holy Week

Holy Week is celebrated throughout Spain and is a huge event on the Barcelona Calendar 2023. The kids are off school and the city welcomes processions, a range of events and activities, plus exciting sweet treats!

Holy Week starts on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Saturday.

Friday, 7 April: Good Friday

On the Barcelona Calendar 2023, Good Friday is a national holiday. You will come across Easter processions and shops will be closed.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Sunday 9 & Monday, 10 April: Easter Sunday & Easter Monday

Two of the biggest holidays on the Barcelona Calendar 2023 are Easter Sunday, a national holiday throughout Spain, and Easter Monday, a holiday in Catalonia. Be sure to get your mona de Pascua in a local bakery – these chocolate eggs come in various forms, from animals to popular characters from films and books.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Sunday, 23 April: Sant Jordi (St George’s Day)

Sant Jordi is one of the most cherished holidays in Catalan culture. This eagerly awaited festivity fills the city’s streets with books, roses and romance.

The city’s main streets are lined with book stalls and many book stores welcome writers for book signing events and more.

Working day? No

Will shops open? Yes

Monday, 1 May: Workers’ Day

International Workers’ Day is a holiday in many countries around the world, supporting the rights and fair conditions of all workers, and celebrating achievements in employment law.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Sunday, 28 May: Second Easter

Second Easter is also as the Pentecost and is celebrated fifty days after the resurrection of Christ.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Friday, 23 June–Saturday, 24 June: Sant Joan (St John’s Eve)

Sant Joan celebrations start on the eve of this holiday, on Friday 23 June. Expect bonfires on the beach, fireworks galore on what will be a night to remember!

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Tuesday, 15 August: Feast of the Assumption

In mid-August this much-awaited holiday often coincides with many local festivities and festivals, namely the Festes de Gracia in Barcelona. Find our Top 7 Tips to Celebrating the Festa Major de Gràcia here.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Sunday, 24 September: La Mercè

This festivity on the Barcelona 2023 calendar is to commemorate Our Lady of Mercy. Although the official dates are yet to be confirmed, in the week running up to this holiday, you can expect a plethora of live music events on stages throughout the city.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Monday, 11 September: The National Day of Catalonia

Known in Catalan as the Diada Nacional de Catalunya, this special day celebrates the defence of the right and freedom of the Catalan population.

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona around these dates to truly immerse yourself in Catalan culture, find out the best location to stay here.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Thursday, 12 October: The National Day of Spain

This day marks the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Wednesday, 1 November: All Saints’ Day

All Saint’s Day is a national holiday throughout Spain, and is a time of reflection and remembrance of those who are no longer with us.

On 31 October, the region celebrates La Castanyada – a traditional family event where panellets, roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes are on the table of every home.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Wednesday, 6 December: Day of the Constitution & Friday, 8 December: Day of the Immaculate Conception

These two holidays are often grouped together for the perfect pre-Christmas break. Many schools and businesses close on the days in between the two holidays, so be sure to check opening times before planning your visit.

Working day? No

Will shops open? Yes (although double check as some businesses may close)

Monday 25 & Tuesday, 26 December: Christmas Day & St Stephen’s Day

Christmas is calling, and what a year it’s been! We can’t believe it’s over but we’re grateful for everything this year has brought us. Now it’s time to celebrate with our families.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

We hope you find this Barcelona Calendar 2023 useful! Here’s to our best year yet!

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The Three Kings Day in Barcelona

January 2, 2023January 5, 2023Natàlia Gibernau

The Three Kings Day is one of the highlights of the Barcelona Christmas Season. Its name in Catalan is Dia dels Tres Reis d’Orient, and is also known as The Epiphany in religious terms, and happens on the sixth day of January.

It is a major event in the Catholic Church’s Nativity agenda. Three Kings Day marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men of the Orient to the birthplace of Jesus at his stable in Bethlehem. They came bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh for the newborn messiah, but in Barcelona, they arrive to give gifts to the city’s inhabitants.

For local kids here in Barcelona, Three Kings Day is even more special, as the focus of the day is on them and not really the grown-ups. Rather like the traditional Father Christmas character in Northern Europe, children only receive gifts if they have been good all year long! The city’s children also have to write a letter to the King’s Pages ahead of the Three Kings arrival to ensure they get the gifts they desire.

On the 5^th of January, the Three Kings arrive in Barcelona with a spectacular street parade called La Cavalcada dels Reis d’Orient – which is a procession to symbolise the arrival of the Three Kings into Bethlehem mounted on their camels, each bearing their gifts for the baby Jesus.

This year, the royal entourage sets off at 6.15 pm and will cover a distance of 5 km, from Av. Marquès de l’Argentera (with Pg. Circumval·lació) to the Font Màgica de Montjuïc, passing through the following points at the following planned times:

6.15 pm: Av. Marquès de l’Argentera
6.35 pm: Plaça Antonio López
7.05 pm: Plaça Antonio Maura
7.33 pm: Plaça Urquinaona
7.45 pm: Plaça Catalunya
8.20 pm: Plaça Universitat
8.35 pm: Carrer Sepúlveda with Urgell
8.50 pm: Pl. Espanya
9.10 pm: Av. Reina Maria Cristina

Check here their route.

The Three Kings parade features the Three Kings in their carnival style float among a whole collection of other floats and musical attractions, where the performers are laden with candy and sweets to throw at the children who catch them, normally in umbrellas that are held upside down.

After the parade has finished and before the children go to bed, they have to prepare some food and water for the Three Kings and their camels to take refreshment. Normally unable to sleep with excitement, contemplating the next morning, the children will eventually settle to sleep and wake early the following morning, when they can see and open their gifts on Three Kings Day.

After the morning’s activities are over, the whole family will settle down for a very special lunch. It is normally a four course sitting and traditional menus will begin with a buffet of tapas followed by a special soup and then a third course of meat or freshly cooked fish.

Then the pièce de résistance is served – Tortell de Reis (King’s Cake) – a puffy, circular, marzipan sponge cake filled with cream, resembling a King’s crown. In fact there will be a crown in the centre and the cake is topped off with dried fruits symbolizing a crown’s jewels.

But the King’s Day tradition doesn’t stop there, because inserted into the cake are two objects – a bean and a figurine of the baby Jesus. Whoever recovers the figurine gets to wear the crown and is called King for the day (also signaling that that person will have a very lucky year) and whoever gets the bean unfortunately has to pay for the cake!

As you can see, Three King’s Day will be a very special day indeed for the city’s children. So why not make your stay in Barcelona just as special by renting a luxury apartment during your stay. We have a wide selection of apartments to rent all over the city, so why not opt for one on the Three Kings parade route? See here for our selection of beautiful places to rent during these unique celebrations.

The best shops to find your perfect wedding dress in Barcelona

January 2, 2023January 12, 2023Natàlia Gibernau

Pronovias

Barcelona is a city known for its exciting boutique and designer fashion, so what could be a better place to find a beautiful and unique wedding dress? Check out these designers with Barcelona-based shops for a selection of original wedding dresses to see if you can find your dream gown.

No list of wedding dress shops in Barcelona would be complete without Pronovias, perhaps the most famous Spanish wedding dress brand. Pronovias started off its life in 1922 as a store in Barcelona that specialized in silk, lace and other high-quality fabrics, and now has stores worldwide. The shop owes its initial fame to designer Alberti Palatchi Ribera, who became renowned for revolutionising the bridal-wear industry with his ready-to-wear gowns. Stylish and classy, Pronovias has something for everyone, with their extensive collections spanning multitudes of themes and designs.

Location: Rambla de Catalunya, 129

Rosa Clará

Since 1995, founded by Rosa Clará herself, Rosa Clará bridal house has been making its beautiful and dreamy wedding gowns. Their goal has always been to create pieces using the best quality fabrics as well as prioritizing style and design. Having become one of Barcelona’s most famous wedding dress designers, their dresses have been worn by worldwide celebrities, including Eva Longoria and Sofía Vergara. Not only this, but Rosa Clará has also collaborated with famous designers like Karl Lagerfeld and Christian Lacroix to create unique and exciting wedding collections.

Location: Diagonal, 409

Aire

If you’re looking for a classic wedding dress, Aire might be the shop for you. With collections that range from the simple to the stunning, all Aire gowns have an air of elegance about them with their gorgeous silhouettes and perfectly placed details and embroidery. If you’re thinking of having a beach wedding, Aire has you covered as they even have a special Beach Bridal collection!

Location: Via Augusta, 32

Yolan Cris

Started in Barcelona, this boutique was created by sisters, Yolanda and Cristina, who have been inspired by their youth when their mum owned a bridal boutique of her own. Since its inception in 2005, Yolan Cris has gone on to design gowns for celebrities including Christina Aguilera, Shakira and Kim Kardashian’s bridal party. The two sisters combine their extensive knowledge of the industry and traditional production methods with high fashion and innovative designs. Currently featuring collections like ‘Boho Chic’ which incorporate an element of 60’s nostalgia into the design, these dresses are not for traditionalists but for those who want a haute couture edge.

Location: Diagonal 508, Principal 1ª

Otaduy

Another designer to look out for, Carolina Otaduy was inspired to start her wedding dress company when living in New York. Formerly an indie music producer, she takes that creativity into her designs inspired by art, music and film, focussing on the concept of dresses designed for women who want to be themselves on their wedding day. If you’re looking for something unique and handmade, this could be the place where you find the wedding dress that you feel truly encapsulates your personality.

Location: Torrent de l’Olla, 45

Cortana

One of the more popular bridal boutiques in Barcelona, Cortana is headed up by designer Rosa Esteva. Born in Majorca, her designs have a decidedly Mediterranean influence about them, taking inspiration from art and contemporary dance. It’s easy to find those themes in the flattering carefree forms her dresses take, with an elegant, chic and boho feel. You can be assured of the quality of the bridal gowns, as they are all flawlessly crafted in small ateliers throughout Barcelona.

Location: Provença, 290

L’Arca

If you’re a lover of all things vintage and looking for something a little more niche, L’Arca might just be the wedding dress shop for you. L’Arca both carefully curates gowns, as well as well as bridal accessories from all periods of time, but also make dresses to measure – always with a vintage inspiration – and customisable from their current collections. With the inspired idea of bringing the past into the present, L’Arca holds over 40 years of expertise in period designing, having worked with Hollywood directors and renowned designers alike.

Location: Banys Nous, 20

So now you have your options for just some of the beautiful and unique dresses you can find amongst Barcelona’s streets, why not check them out to see if your dream gown is waiting there for you.

7 fun things to do in Barcelona

October 22, 2022October 22, 2022Natàlia Gibernau

Looking for fun things to do in Barcelona? Barcelona is a fun city, there’s no denying it! And with so many fun things to do, you can often be spoiled for choice. It’s got both mountains and sea, a great cultural scene, shopping options for all budgets – and not to mention its amazing restaurants and trendy bars.

However we’ve come up with a list 7 really fun things to do in Barcelona you might not have thought of before. Planning a hen or stag do in Barcelona? You’ve come to the right place! Or looking for a way to surprise your other half on a weekend getaway? We’ve got you covered.

These are our favourite fun things to do in Barcelona with friends or family, when we just want to have a really good time!

1. Wine tasting at one of Barcelona’s wineries

You may or may not know that the area of Catalonia is famous for its wine regions. From Empordà, Penedès, to Alella, Montsant, Terra Alta and Priorat – wine lovers are truly spoiled for choice.

For this reason we 100% recommend a fun trip to one of the region’s gorgeous wineries. An easily accessible option from Barcelona on public transport is Alella – this small town boasts several vineyards and wineries, some with sea views! At Bouquet d’Alella there’s the option to enjoy a tour of the winery and a wine tasting session, or to splash out on a private sunset picnic! Penedès is also reachable by train, with over a dozen wineries offering bespoke activities, including bike tours, taster menus and wine pairings, and more!

2. Play padel in Barcelona

Where tot play padel in Barcelona? Padel lovers will love the app Playtomic. Simply sign up and enter your level then search for matches to join nearby or set up a match with friends or new people. You can book a spot for one person or more, depending on the slots available. You don’t need to be a member of the clubs that appear to join the match so this makes easier the booking of the court and the availability to play. You will have also the possibility to find tennis matches.

With many great padel clubs in Barcelona, you’re sure to find a match to suit your level. We highly recommend it, is one of our favourite fun things to do in Barcelona.

3. Play lasertag in Barcelona

More fun things to do in Barcelona? The vintage game is back in vogue! We all remember playing laser tag as a kid – the smoke machines, the music and the lights – so what could be more fun than a laser tag match in Barcelona?

Challenge your friends or family at Play Point with two centres in Barcelona: one Carrer Comte Borrell, 88 and the other on Carrer Cartagena, 329-331. We loves its adventure-themed mazes and impressive decoration. They also offer indoor paintball and virtual reality activities for true thrill seekers.

4. Paddle boarding in Barcelona

If you’re visiting Barcelona in the warmer summer months, what better way to cool off than one of the trendiest water sports activities?

We love SEA YOU paddle surf school on Platja de Sant Sebastià. It’s as simple as booking online and dropping by to grab your paddle board. This centre also offer surf lessons for those who want to learn how to hit the waves on a more traditional board, and paddle board yoga for those who want to put their balance to the test.

5. Try get out of an escape room in 60 minutes

Barcelona is brimming with escape rooms for all ages, tastes and abilities. This activity is perfect with groups of friends or colleagues as it really encourages team work, communication and working together under pressure.

Our favourites with clues and puzzles available in English are Lock Clock (Passatge del Patriarca, 4-10) – with a Gaudí themed room – and Xcape Room Barcelona (Carrer Sant Antoni Maria Claret, 258) with the genres of crime and thriller.

6. Marvel at the heights of the city from the Montjuic cable car

Get ready to enjoy panoramic views of Barcelona for 750 metres along this wonderful cable car route. It runs from the Parallel metro station to the top of the Montjuic Mountain – where you’ll find the city’s castle dating back to 1640.

While you’re there, why not visit the Fundación Joan Miró, el Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya or Poble Espanyol with its artisan stores and traditional bars. We recommend going at sunset for breathtaking views!

7. Get creative at a drink and draw session

Paintbrush at the ready! The latest craze in the city involves wine and painting, and we have to say we could not be more onboard. No experience is needed, just eagerness to get creative. Drink and draw classes at Art Wine include all the painting materials you’ll need (paint, brushes, canvas and an easel), plus wine and water.

Join one of their regular sessions and get ready to make news friends and socialise over art, or book a class for a private group with your very own teacher to guide you through the steps. At the end don’t forget to take home your masterpiece.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our tips about fun things to do in Barcelona!

And if you need to book an apartment in Barcelona, let us know and we will help you 😉

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Your Complete Guide to La Mercè 2022

September 7, 2022September 7, 2022Natàlia Gibernau

La Mercè 2022 is here and that means this rather sticky summer has almost come to end. Yet what better way to beat our blues than with a grand celebration of everything musical in the form of the city’s festa major?

As we’ve mentioned to you in our past articles about this event, La Mercè is celebrated in honour of one of Barcelona’s patron saints: Mare de Déu de la Mercè (Our Lady of Mercy). In this 151st edition of the festival, we’re bringing the best La Mercè 2022 has to offer.

This year’s poster was designed by Bilbao-born artist, David de las Heras, who has called the Catalan capital his home for almost a decade. Capturing three generations of women in Barcelona towering above the city and its most monumental structures, the poster was inspired by all the versions of La Mercè that have been, that are, and that will be in the years to come.

La Mercè 2022 will run from Thursday 22 September to Monday 26 September, with the official day of celebration being Saturday 24, promising to be one of the biggest events of the year. Rooted in music and tradition, the programme is brimming with activities, performances and, of course, live music concerts in the city’s streets, squares and venues.

Get ready for La Mercè 2022!

Covid restrictions for La Mercè 2022

Unlike in past years following the Covid-19 pandemic, it will no longer be necessary to book your ticket online. All the events and activities during La Mercè 2022 are free and open to all.

The final line-up will be released on 12 September featuring more than 500 activities. Promising a total of 100 groups and artists, 80 companies at a range of 26 venues.

Regarding Covid-19 restrictions, this year La Mercè is celebrating a return to normal, with no masks and no capacity restrictions as in the past two editions. However, activities and concerts will be spread throughout the city to avoid huge crowds forming in central locations, with a focus on outdoor events.

Live music concerts at La Mercè 2022

La Mercè 2022 will host a diverse range of artists from Spain and around the globe for the BAM, Cultura Viva and Música Mercè programmes. With stages returning to Bogatell beach and Rambla de Raval, new additions at Ronda de Sant Antoni and Zona Universitària, plus all the usual venues throughout the city, including Teatre Grec, Moll de la Fusta and Plaça Joan Coromines.

This year’s BAM events, promoting alternative music, identities and genres will come jam-packed with interesting proposals from emerging groups and artists that include Fotos de la Novia, La Queency and AL-V at the Antiga Fàbrica Estrella Damm; Luna Ki, Molly Nillson, and Bones of Minerva at Moll de la Fusta; and Cartel Madras and Pedro Mafama at Rambla de Raval.

Other confirmed highlights include the much-loved Catalan group Els Catarres on Friday 23, the legendary La Oreja de Van Gogh, also on Friday, La Pegatina on Saturday 24 and Lola Índigo on Sunday 25. Remember the full line-up will be released on 12 September, so keep your eyes peeled for more announcements.

Another new addition to La Mercè 2022 is the Jazz & Food Festival at Moll de la Fusta on Monday 26th. With a focus on local talent and female musicians, it promises to be the perfect plan to bring this brilliant festival to a close.

Tradition at La Mercè 2022

Just like in past years, Catalan traditions and customs will play a huge part in La Mercè 2022. Expect to see traditional dances such as la sardana, the wildly entertaining fire run – correfoc –parades of immense hand-crafted giants (capgroços) and falcons, and performances of the UNESCO-recognised castellers, or human towers.

What’s more, the guest city of La Mercè 2022 is Rome. Find influences of the Italian capital throughout the festival, with an open-air cinema at Plaça de la Mercè showing films by Italian directors, in addition to performances by Italian artists over the four days.

Be sure to check out the full programme on the official La Mercè 2022 website when it is released on 12 September for times and locations.

Closing ceremony La Mercè 2022

On Monday 26, the last night of La Mercè 2022, the festival will be brought to a grand close with the stunning Piromusical firework display to a curated soundtrack. And this year, it will take place at its usual location of l’Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina, by the Magic Montjuic Fountain.

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Can’t wait to see you there!

What to do in Barcelona in August – Top 10 Activities

August 3, 2022August 3, 2022Natàlia Gibernau

Barcelona in August is the place to be! Summer is officially upon us and this month comes packed with refreshing, exciting and sun-filled activities to make sure you get your summer fix.

We’re bringing you a list of our top 10 activities to beat the summer heat in Barcelona in August. So whether you’re looking for ways to cool off during the day or to a place to relax and take in the long balmy evenings, we’ve got you covered. Let’s go!

1. Mas i Mas Festival

Various locations throughout the city, including Plaça Reial and Palau de la Música

Throughout the month of August, Barcelona will welcome electronic beats, jazz rhythms and the melodies of soul and blues. Buy tickets online here for big names including the Wayne Escoffery Quartet and the all-female Las de Barcelona.

2. Day trip

Looking to escape the sticky heat of the city? In Barcelona in August, there’s nothing better than taking hitting the road in the early morning, heading towards the coast and basking in the fresh sea air of the Costa Brava.

We recommend a host of day trips, but a visit to the quaint fishing village of Cadaqués has to be top of our list.

3. Festes de Gràcia

From 15 to 21 August the streets of Gràcia will be filled with decorations in every colour you can imagine. Find events for the whole family, live music and incredible examples of recycled art in this weeklong celebration.

Find our complete guide to enjoying these festes here.

4. Sala Montjuïc Outdoor Cinema

Montjuïc Castle, Ctra. de Montjuïc, 66

What better way to spend the balmy summer evenings in Barcelona in August than with a live music concert, food and drinks, and one of your favourite films? This August you can catch A Hero (Iran, 2021) on the 1st, Palm Springs (2020, USA) on the 3rd and a surprise movie on the 5th.

General admission costs €7.50 and admission with a chair €10.50. We recommend getting there early to grab a spot!

5. Let’s go to the beach!

Let’s face it – what better way to enjoy Barcelona in August is there than a long, sleepy day at one of its many beaches? To be exact, Barcelona has nine beaches and total, which makes for a total of 9km of sandy shores where you can top up your tan.

From La Barceloneta, Bogatell, Mar Bella and Badalona, discover our complete guide to Barcelona’s beaches here.

6. Festes de Sants

If you still haven’t got your fix of street parties, live music and a myriad of decorations, not to worry! From 20 to 28 August, the neighbourhood of Sants will host its yearly Festa Major. With concerts, dances and street dinners, you’ll find something for everyone!

7. Nits d’Estiu at CaixaForum

Avinguda Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 6-8

Barcelona in August will welcome an array of cultural activities at CaixaForum as part of its Nits d’Estiu (Summer Nights) programme from 27 July to 31 August.

Performance, poetry, opera and international cinema come together, in addition to the stunning outdoor exhibition Farbalà by Xevi Bayona, which interacts with light and wind. Tickets are on sale now and start at €6.

8. Magic Nights at Casa Batlló

Passeig de Gràcia, 43

What better way to discover one of Gaudí’s masterpieces than with a drink in hand, the best views in the city and live music in the background? Casa Batlló’s Magic Nights take place every evening throughout the month of August on the building’s marvellous roof terrace, overlooking Passeig de Gràcia.

Discover the line-up with artists from the world of flamenco, jazz and soul, and book your tickets here.

9. Visit Poble Espanyol with kids

Avinguda Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13,

Poble Espanyol is a hidden gem in Barcelona in August, so this summer don’t miss its activity programme for all ages. On 13 and 27 August, there’s the third edition of Rock & Kids, with some of the biggest hits adapted for the youngest members of the family.

What’s more, the Summer Street Escape to find the magic “gaticornio” will take place every Saturday throughout August and promises to be a fun-filled mission for the entire family.

10. Relax on a terrace

If you’re dreaming of sitting back with a book and a drink in hand, while taking in the wonderful streets of Barcelona in August, we’ve got good news for you! Here’s our top 10 terraces for outdoor plans in the city, including rooftop bars with the best views and hidden bars that are the refreshing, tranquil oases you’ve been dreaming of. See you there?

We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of things to do in Barcelona in August. If there’s anything we’ve missed, let us know!

Festival of Sant Joan in Barcelona 2022

June 2, 2022June 14, 2022Natàlia Gibernau

Sant Joan 2022 is almost here! And we’ve got the best plans for you to make sure you enjoy this spark-filled festivity in Barcelona. The first Sant Joan in two years to be celebrated without any COVID restrictions promises to be fire-tastic!

The night of Sant Joan, known as la revetlla in Catalan, is one of the most popular dates of the year. Bonfires, street parties, music and colourful fireworks bring to life the city of Barcelona in what is a celebration of the summer solstice or midsummer and the shortest night of the year.

Here’s a list of our favourite things to do this Sant Joan 2022 in Barcelona. We hope you enjoy them!

Will there be any restrictions this Sant Joan?

As mentioned, after two years, this Sant Joan is most likely to be first one in two years not to be subject to COVID restrictions. However the city council has still not released specific details. We know that last year restrictions allowed only small-format bonfires and night clubs and bars had a closing time of 3.30 am. Keep up to date with the latest announcements on the local government’s website here.

Where can I see the Flama del Canigó this Sant Joan?

This 50-year tradition deep rooted in Catalan identity is a symbol of Catalan-speaking territories. This flame stays alight all year round in the Castellet de Perpiñà. On the 22nd of June every year, locals take it to the top of the sacred Canigou (Canigó) Mountain in France. The flame is distributed among those present, who then take it and light the bonfires of the Sant Joan celebrations. This year the flame arrives in Barcelona at midday on the 23rd, at the Parlament de Catalunya. It will then be distributed throughout the city in magical, fun-filled parades.

What Sant Joan activities will there be throughout the city?

Throughout the different neighbourhoods in Barcelona you’ll find a range of activities and local bonfires organized by the local councils of each area to celebrate what is the shortest night of the year.

The official details are still yet to be released by some of the local areas for the Sant Joan 2022 festivities, but keep your eye on the above website for the latest news.

Head to Raval for an evening of live music, bonfires and more. The famous Canigó flame will arrive at the Rambla de Raval at approximately 7pm to light the neighbourhood’s bonfire, with live music, food and a DJ to see you into the early hours of the morning!

La Sagrera has also organized a range of activities in the Plaça dels Jardins d’Elx. There will be a bonfire lit using the famous Canigó flame and a local dinner, where everyone brings their own food. Don’t miss the bar run by residents and a DJ until midnight for a truly local experience.

For a very lively atmosphere with bonfires, fireworks and partying, head to Barcelona’s beaches. At La Barceloneta you’ll find large groups who set up camp on the beach ready for a long night of celebrations with live music, drumlins are more.

We recommend heading there early to get a spot as the beach soon fills up. If you’re with children we recommend leaving before midnight, which is when things start to get rowdy!

Sant Joan from the heights of Barcelona

If you’re looking to enjoy this Sant Joan in a more relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, why not enjoy it from the heights of the city? Take a picnic to Montjuïc to marvel at the fireworks or book a table at one of Barcelona’s many rooftop bars and restaurants to enjoy the night in style.

**Where can I buy the famous Coca de Sant Joan?**

The Sant Joan coca is the tastiest treat of this summer solstice festivity in Barcelona. This anis-flavoured brioche bread is made with a variety of ingredients, and you’ll find sweet and savoury options for all tastes.

Don’t miss it in the windows of all of the city’s bakeries, filled with marzipan, dried fruits, nuts, cream, and more. Enjoy the coca de Sant Joan on the evening of the 23rd while reveling in the festivities or the next day with lunch – it’s equally as tasty!

Let us know, what are your plans for Sant Joan 2022? If you’re looking for somewhere to stay during this year’s festivities, don’t forget to check out Bizflat’s long-term and short-stay apartments so you don’t miss out on a thing!

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