How to See Barcelona Like a Local

Barcelona is definitely a tourist hotspot- for good reason!  Its numerous historic attractions, beautiful parks, and bustling city shops create the perfect atmosphere for an exciting vacation.  However, Barcelona is bursting with hidden gems that not many visitors usually find.  If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and explore some lesser-known areas of the city, try these 5 activities to help you see Barcelona like a local!

5 Ways to See Barcelona like a Local

  1. Find Great Deals at the Flea Market

One of the oldest markets in all of Europe, Els Encants is a thriving flea market in Barcelona.  Open every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:00 a.m to 8:00 p.m, this huge collection of vendors and traders offer all kinds of vintage relics, authentic artwork, and much more.  You’re bound to find your new favorite souvenir at this fascinating Barcelona attraction!

  1. Have a Fantastic Dinner

If you want to enjoy authentic Catalan cuisine without the crowds of tourists, stroll through the beautiful area of Gràcia.  This historical village is under the radar to most non-locals and contains several delightful restaurants, perfect for savoring a peaceful meal while appreciating a quieter portion of the city.  There are several fantastic hole-in-the-wall restaurants and cafes in Gràcia, including Kuai Momos, an exotic spot serving dishes from all over the world, Botafumeiro Restaurant, which specializes in the freshest seafood, and Windsor, a classy joint that prepares traditional Catalan cuisine.

  1. Get the Best View

Want to see Barcelona in a new way?  Climb up to the Bunkers del Carmel, the abandoned anti-aircraft fortifications built during the Spanish Civil War, to see the entire city all at once.  These towering structures sit atop the hill of Turo de la Rovira, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area.  This little-known destination is high on the list of places not to miss in Barcelona.

  1. Go Green

In order to better immerse yourself in the culture of Barcelona, you should explore Can Masdeu.  A self-sustaining estate located in the Valley of Saint Genis just outside Collserola Park, this center houses a group of local inhabitants who want to shift their focus from the world of money.  Instead, they put their efforts into growing organic produce and medicinal herbs and spending time together as a community surrounded by nature, rather than the noise and crowds of the city.  Drop by this beautiful property to explore the building, grounds, and garden; you can also attend one of their workshops featuring topics such as activism and ecology.

  1. Enjoy the Nightlife

There is a multitude of things to do at night in Barcelona!  If you want to try a bar that isn’t overwhelmed with noise or people, there are several options available.  You can stop by TimeLine in Gràcia for a quiet evening; this bar serves coffee, brunch, and small plates during the day; at night it transforms into a bar scene with professional bartenders (who are all multilingual to help visitors).  Arena in El Born is another low-key joint; this bar is tucked away in an obscure part of town to create a more intimate and comfortable environment for playing pool and spending time with friends.  Or, if you want to dance the night away, check out the many nightclubs in Barcelona!  There are many spots by the beaches that are fun without being too packed.

Stay with Us at bizFlats!

Now that you can’t wait to see Barcelona, check out bizFlats to book the perfect place to stay for your getaway!  Our numerous vacation rentals create a comfortable environment so you can enjoy a good night’s rest in between your many Barcelona adventures.  Check our availability today to start planning a trip you’ll never forget!


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