10 Best Things to do in Barcelona in April

March 29, 2022April 4, 2022Natàlia Gibernau

Spring is finally here, bringing with it a plethora of things to do in Barcelona in April. The clock went forward the last weekend of March, which means lighter evenings and a sensation of waking up after a long winter as we welcome April.

We have to admit, April is a fantastic month for things to do in Barcelona. So make the most of the long days and pleasant climate to explore the city, visit its museums and art galleries, spend a family day out, or even to take a day trip from the city.

We recommend checking the opening times and COVID regulations before planning your trip.

April in Barcelona - Guide to april in Barcelona — Sant Jordi – Your guide to April in Barcelona

Things to do in Barcelona in April

1. Family Day at Mobile Week Barcelona, 3 April

Various locations around the city

This 3 April, don’t miss Family Day at Mobile Week Barcelona, brimming with family-friendly activities with Lego, robots and the most exciting latest technologies for all ages. Find out more here (Spanish only).

2. All Those Festival, 2–3 April

Teatre Nacional de Catalunya: Plaça de les Arts, 1, 08013

The All Those Barcelona festival is back in Barcelona at the Teatre Nacional. Enjoy the first weekend of April with live music, dozens of stalls selling artisan goods and the best food from local restaurants. We’ll see you there!

3. The Magritte Machine until 6 June

Caixa Fòrum: Avinguda de Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 6-8, 08038

Discover this retrospective exhibition on Belgian artist René Magritte, famous for his faceless portraits. Sixty-five works come together in this excellent example of surreal art.

4. LUZIA by Cirque du Soleil, 28 March – 1 May

Trav. Industrial, 50, 08907 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat

Journey to Mexico in this dream-like show that delves into the country’s folklore and traditions. Combining acrobats and visual experiences, you’re sure to be amazed!

5. Day trip to Cadaqués

What better way to enjoy the spring than a day trip to explore the area surrounding your favourite city? Escape the hustle and bustle of Barcelona and head to the quaint fishing village of Cadaqués, where the artist Dalí himself once lived. Make the most of the off-peak season before this coveted destination welcomes the crowds!

If this day trip doesn’t take you fancy, check out our 8 favourite day trips on our blog for more inspiration.

More things to do in Barcelona in April? Keep reading 😉

6. Sant Jordi – 23 April

One of our favourite days of the year is Sant Jordi. Dubbed as the Catalan Valentine’s Day, this special day sees Barcelona’s streets lined with bookstalls and flower sellers.

Be sure to get your loved one a book and a rose and learn about this tradition inspired by the story of St George and the dragon here.

7. Football. Art. Icons. In that order, 28 March to 28 May

Casa Seat: Pg. de Gràcia, 109, 08008 Barcelona

On the corner of Paseo de Gràcia and Diagonal is CASA SEAT, which welcomes this new exhibition. Bringing together football and art, including illustration, hands-on experiences, and much more, this exhibition promises a different day out for football lovers and at fanatics alike.

8. Handmade Festival, 8–10 April

Fira de Barcelona: Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina, s/n, 08004

This festival in Barcelona puts the spotlight on local creators and everything handmade. Find the most meaningful souvenirs or treat yourself to something special, all whilst enjoying live music, food trucks and an array of hands-on activities.

9. Easter Week in Barcelona, 10–18 April

There’s something for everyone at Easter in Barcelona. From the traditional “La Burreta” (donkey) procession on Palm Sunday and solemn masses held on Good Friday in some of the city’s most important churches, to the much-awaited decorated chocolate egg known as “La Mona”.

Consult our Barcelona Calendar 2022 for a list of this year’s public holidays.

10. A stroll in one of Barcelona’s parks

With the spring equinox behind us, we have already started to notice smatterings of green throughout the city, with new buds appearing, blossoms blooming and new colour bringing Barcelona to life.

Why not enjoy nature coming in to bloom with a relaxing stroll at the Labyrinth de Horta maze, the central Parc de la Ciutadella or the city’s botanical gardens in Montjuic? Or take a picnic and make a day of it! We hope you enjoy the 10 best plans in Barcelona in April!

Barcelona Blog – Tips, culture, things to do, restaurants and much more

August 6, 2021January 18, 2022Natàlia Gibernau

Our Barcelona Blog is here with the complete guide to one of Europe’s most coveted destinations.

We’ve got you covered for your next visit to this wonderful city, with tips about what to do, where to stay, restaurants, and much more. This guide is curated by locals to ensure your stay is simply unforgettable.

So whether you’re planning a city break, a summer getaway, a business trip or a family holiday, here you’ll find everything you need to know, and in one place!

So, let’s dive in!

Barcelona Blog: What to See & Do

We agree that it can be a little overwhelming planning what to see and do in a city that has so much to offer.

Barcelona is steeped in historical heritage. If you’re dying to find out more about the Roman past of Barcino, check out our guide to the city’s old quarter, known as Ciutat Vella.

No visit to Barcelona is complete without a visit to the masterpiece that is the Sagrada Família. Our Barcelona blog boasts tips about your visit (such as booking in advance), the history of the monument and interesting facts that we’re sure you didn’t know. Read on here!

If you’re a Gaudí fiend, why not explore some of this modernism architect’s lesser-known pieces scattered around the city?

If you have 48 hours or less in the city, we recommend you tick off the city’s top 10 attractions including its famous bustling Les Rambles and Camp Nou – the world’s third largest football stadium.

What’s more, we’re in the midst of one of the best times of the year to visit: it’s summer! This Barcelona blog can recommend a plethora of outdoor plans.

Why not hit one of the city’s nine beaches to cool off and top up your tan? Our other favourite outdoor plans include discovering the Montjuic mountain, relaxing in the natural park Collserola and catching some amazing views of the skyline from the Carmel Bunkers.

Finally, if you love wandering the streets of a new city and taking in hidden delights away from the most popular tourist spots, why not explore our Barcelona blog area guides replete with local tips.

Discover the colourful and cultural Raval, the majestic district of Eixample, and the beautiful Born home to the Picasso museum and the Palau de la Música music hall.

Palau de la Música - Things to do in Gothic Quarter — Barcelona Blog – Palau de la Música Catalana

Barcelona Blog: Where to eat

When on holiday, knowing the best places to eat can often be an odyssey. That’s why our Barcelona blog has got you covered!

If fine dining is something you’d like to try, you’re in luck! With an array of Michelin-star restaurants, you’ll find something for all tastes and budgets. What’s more, thanks to recent food trends, many a new veggie spot has popped up in the city. Our Barcelona blog recommends our favourite vegetarian restaurants from its famous Teresa Carles to its family-run L’Hortet.

Our Barcelona blog also recommends you try Catalan cuisine on your visit here. Discover the best places to order pà amb tomàquet (toasted country loaf with garlic and tomato), springtime calçots (grilled long sweet onion) and butifarra amb mongetes (Catalan sausage with white butter beans) here.

With its all-year-round wonderful climate, outdoor eating in Barcelona is one of its best attractions. Whether you fancy a beer and tapas with friends, a long lunch or to unwind with a book and a coffee, the city has many a beautiful terrace where you can pull up a chair and relax. Discover our top 10 Barcelona terraces here.

LA Panxa del bisbe - barcelona blog — Barcelona Blog. La Planxa del Bisbe Resetaurant

Barcelona Blog: Where to stay

When it comes to finding a place to stay, why not check out our Barcelona blog for our guides to the best areas and information about long-term and short-term rentals in the city’s best locations.

Discover our modernist Dandi apartment with a terrace in the opulent district of la Dreta de l’Eixample – only one block away from Passeig de Gràcia. Or in the upcoming LGTBQI-friendly l’Eixample Esquerre – voted the coolest neighbourhood in the world by Time Out – you’ll find the romantic KissMe apartment.

In the heart of the old quarter find our spacious 3-bedroom MACCA apartment a stone’s throw away from La Rambla. Or if peace and quiet is on your mind, our Jollie penthouse boasts a sun-drenched terrace in the residential area of Les Corts.

Find our Barcelona blog complete guide to the city’s best locations, a low-down on each neighbourhood and the best apartments here.

Apartment-Zona-Alta-Barcelona-Ferran-Batik-Barcelona blog — Ferran Batik Apartment

Barcelona Blog: day trips

Last but not least, Barcelona boasts a prime location perfect for exploring the surrounding region of Catalonia. With sprawling beaches, beautiful mountains and sleepy fishing villages a short journey away, taking a day trip from Barcelona is the perfect complement to your trip.

A few hours from the city lies Cadaqués in the province of Girona. You’ll fall in love with its stunning promenade, whitewashed houses and the cobbled streets of its historic centre.

Another unmissable day trip is to Sitges. Known around the world as a top LGTBQI destination, don’t miss its nightlife, beautiful beaches and museums, all only a 40-minute train journey from the city.

You can discover more of our favourite simple day trips from Barcelona here.

We hope our Barcelona Blog complete guide to the city comes in useful on your next trip! You know where we are.

Day-trip-to-Cadaqués — Cadaqués – Barcelona Blog

10 things to do in Barcelona outside

February 3, 2021February 3, 2021Natàlia Gibernau

Finding things to do in Barcelona outside can often be an overwhelming task. With so many options, where do you start?

Look no further! We’ve carefully put together this article with 10 things to do in Barcelona outside so you can make the most of the city and its all-year round mild climate.

The days are getting longer and spring is just around the corner. What better time of year to get out of the house for a breath of fresh air in your favourite city.

This cultural hub has so much to offer when it comes to plans outside: from its sandy beaches and charming squares, to its luscious parks and secret hidden corners, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

We always recommend checking the latest COVID-19 restrictions and opening times before you decide to do any of these outdoor activities, and to follow safe social distancing at all times.

1. Take a walk along Barcelona’s seaside promenade

Barcelona’s coastline offers spectacular views and a wide, spacious promenade to walk along to soak it all in. Alternatively, hit the sand, fill your lungs with the fresh sea air and let the waves of La Barceloneta tickle your toes. If you’re looking for more things to do in Barcelona on the beach, why not grab a pair of roller-skates, a bike or go for a run along this beautiful coastal promenade.

Things to do in Barcelona - Barcelona promenade

2. Visit Colserolla Park and Carretera de les aigües

Collserola park is the biggest metropolitan park in the world – believe it or not, it is 22 times the size of New York’s Central Park. The park can be easily accessed by many forms of public transport (bus, metro and train). Visitors will find many routes that are perfect for both hiking and biking. Keep an eye out for the local flora and fauna, including wild boar!

Visiting Collserola is one of our favourite things to do in Barcelona. Why not make a day of it with the whole family?

Things to do in Barcelona - Collserola Park

3. Discover Montjuïc

Head to Montjuïc and enjoy some fantastic views of Barcelona, the harbour and coastline. This monumental hill is easy to access by cable car and other forms of public transport. Discover the cemetery, the wonderful viewpoints and visit the Montjuic castle. Due to reduced capacity, we recommended checking current restrictions and booking in advance.

Things to do in Barcelona - Discover Montjuic

4. A visit the Joan Brossa Gardens with the entire family

After you’ve taken in the views, another thing to do in Barcelona’s Montjuïc is visiting the Joan Brossa Gardens. It’s at its most beautiful in the springtime, so we recommend visiting in the upcoming months to make sure you catch the flowers in full bloom.

Things to do in Barcelona - Jardins Joan Brossa

5. Getting lost among the streets of the Ciutat Vella

Discovering the hidden corners of Barcelona’s old town is one of the most magical things to do in Barcelona. Wander through its medieval streets and visit many a charming square. Replete with history, we recommend taking in the Neo-gothic architecture of Barcelona cathedral, visiting the hidden Roman columns at the Temple d’August by Plaça Sant Jaume or strolling through Plaça Felip Neri to discover its tragic past.

You can discover more things to in the Ciutat Vella here.

Things to do in Barcelona - ciutat vella

6. Take a photo at the Lover’s Kiss mural

A romantic outdoor plan in Barcelona is seeking out the famous Lover’s Kiss. This unique mural is comprised of 4,000 photos of Barcelona locals to create a romantic mosaic in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. Make sure to take a photo here with your loved one!

7. Take a stroll through the streets of Gràcia

Also top on our list of things to do in Barcelona is wandering the streets of Gràcia – an area to the north of the city. This quaint neighbourhood used to be a village and still retains its traditional charm. Visit the squares Plaça de la Vila with its grand clock tower and Plaça de la Virreina with its magnificent church. Also, discover many an artisan boutique, specialty coffee shop and local restaurant (subject to current restrictions).

Read more about why we love Gràcia so much here.

8. Get lost in the Parc del Laberint d’Horta

A charming maze can be found in the Horta-Guinardó district of Barcelona in this 18^th century park. Head here to enjoy utter peace and quiet amongst the towering cypress trees. Perfect for all ages to disconnect from the buzz of the city. If you’re looking for more parks to visit in Barcelona, read on in our article here.

9. Discover a piece of Gaudí at Park Güell

Park Güell is one of the most known works of Gaudí in Barcelona. Although you need to pay to access the Gaudí monument, you can visit the park and surrounding areas free of charge to discover this piece of green in the city.

10. Take in the views from the Bunkers del Carmel

In the past few years, a visit to the Bunkers del Carmel viewpoint has become one of the top things to do in Barcelona. Why not discover these fantastic views for yourself?

What’s your favourite thing to do in Barcelona outside? Let us know!

Complete guide to Eixample Barcelona

June 26, 2020August 6, 2020Natàlia Gibernau

One of Barcelona’s largest and most emblematic neighbourhoods, the Eixample is found in the very heart of the city.

Pronounced “ay-sham-pluh” , its name can roughly be translated as “expansion or extension”. Read on to learn more about this iconic and unique area of Barcelona.

The History of Eixample Barcelona

The newest part of the city stretches north of Plaça de Catalunya and to either side of Passeig de Gràcia in six exclusively diverse areas. The most well known of these areas are referred to as Eixample Esquerra and Dreta de l’Eixample located to the left and right of Passeig de Gràcia as their names respectively indicate.

In the mid 19^thcentury, the Catalan architect Ildefons Cerdà was chosen to extend the city beyond its medieval walls. His plan extended the city to the surrounding small towns and villages (including Gràcia and Les Corts). This was due to the impact of the Industrial Revolution and Barcelona’s increasing need for more space and sanitation, given its rising population.

Cerdà’s architectural vision took great inspiration from straight lines and geometric shapes. If you have visited Eixample Barcelona before, you are sure to have noticed its uniform grid layout and distribution in blocks.

What’s more, at the intersection of each of its roads, you’ll find the iconic “chaflán”. The architect in charge of the expansion project opted to remove the typical right-angled corners from his plan in order to allow for a place for horse and carriages to park, to ease movement, and allow for better visibility at crossings.

For this reason, it’s very hard to get lost in the Eixample Barcelona and it’s very easy to find places. Keep reading to discover what to see and do in this fantastic district that has something for everyone.

What to visit in Eixample Barcelona

Now home to the city’s mot renowned sights, luxury boutiques and exclusive stores, plus an array of stylish restaurants and bars, Eixample Barcelona is an unmissable district on your visit to Barcelona.

Architecture

Traditionally where the residences of many Catalan bourgeois were located, Eixample Barcelona is synonymous with modernist and neoclassic architecture.

The best way to explore this district is on foot – look up and you’ll be amazed by its towering façades, glorious buildings in an array of colours and intricately designed balconies and terraces. Look down and you’ll spot Barcelona’s famous flower etched into the pavement below your feet.

Eixample Barcelona is also home to Gaudí’s most famous works. La Pedrera and Casa Batlló can be found on Passeig de Gràcia in walking distance of one another. What’s more, Avinguda Gaudí (one of the few streets in Eixample Barcelona that doesn’t follow the grid layout) joins the Hospital de Sant Pau and Gaudí’s masterpiece: the Sagrada Família. Read more about this epic monument in our article here.

Shopping

Take a stroll down Passeig de Gràcia and La Rambla for a luxury shopping experience. Here you’ll find international and local designer boutiques including Adolfo Dominguez, Chanel, Loro Piano, MaxMara and Louis Vuitton. Also located in this area are some of Europe’s largest stores of well-known high street brands such as Zara, Mango and H&M.

What’s more, Eixample Barcelona is teeming with bookshops, artisan boutiques, florists and markets.

Eixample Barcelona - Passeig de Gràcia — Passeig de Gràcia

Culture and art

For lovers of art galleries and museums, located in Eixample are the Fundació Antoni Tàpies dedicated to the local artist, the Egyptian museum of Barcelona, and the Fundació Mapfre with various temporary collections of modern art and photography.

You’ll be thrilled to know that the Eixample district doesn’t end here! We thoroughly recommend exploring the other districts within Eixample Barcelona.

Sant Antoni, located to the left of Raval, is famous for its newly renovated market, its numerous bars and cafés and traditional bodega-style restaurants. Head here during the weekend to take in its buzzing, lively atmosphere where locals and tourists alike come to let off some steam.

Whether you’re discovering Eixample Barcelona for the first time or exploring its streets on your second of third visit, you’re sure to be inspired by its legacy. Eixample Barcelona has it all, from stunning examples of Catalan architecture, a cosmopolitan vibe and the best of international fashion. We hope to see you there soon!

6 great reasons to visit the neighbourhood of Gràcia

March 4, 2020August 6, 2020Natàlia Gibernau

The neighbourhood of Gràcia has become synonymous with Barcelona and it’s most likely that if this is your second or third trip to Barcelona, you’ve already fallen under its spell.

Located in the northern part of the city, a 20-minute walk from Plaça Catalunya along the city’s famous Passeig de Gràcia will take you into the heart of this charismatic district.

For those of you that are yet to discover its charm, we’ve put together this article explaining just why we love the neighbourhood of Gràcia area of Barcelona so much. From things to see and do, to its history and local traditions, this small guide will ensure that you won’t miss out on a thing.

A plaza in the Barcelona neighbourhood of Gràcia

Its village charm

Gràcia first emerged as a small rural community with three convents and a small population. It wasn’t until around the 19^thcentury that Gràcia began to grow, becoming the most important village in the area thanks to its agricultural production.

In 1850 it was established as a municipality with 13,000 habitants, but it wasn’t until 1897, with almost 67,000 habitants, that it became part of Barcelona itself. Gràcia was flourishing yet it still lacked basic services and facilities. Over the years it has become the thriving hub it is today, boasting markets, cultural, sports and historical centres, medical services and schools.

Its cobbled streets and enchanting squares

Despite being located a stone’s throw away from the centre of Barcelona, the streets of the neighbourhood of Gràcia still conserve that charming allure often only found in small villages.

Stroll along its streets lined with flowering trees, take a break in one of its many squares with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, or explore the Plaça de la Vila square with its 19^th-century bell tower and Plaça de la Virreina with its beautiful stone church.

The Festes de Gràcia

Every August the streets of the neighbourhood of Gràcia come alive with locals and tourists alike. The Festa Major de Gràcia constitutes a weeklong celebration in which the streets of this charming area are decorated with recycled materials in every colour.

The residents of many streets and squares in the neighbourhood come together as a community to choose a theme of their own for their respective streets in a fun-filled family-friendly event that cannot be missed. Read more about this tradition in one of our past articles here.

Neighbourhood of Gràcia, a street decorated to look like Moscow Red Square

Alternative stores and independent boutiques

Gràcia is home to a plethora of shops that sell locally made products, ethical goods and gifts galore. With something for everyone, after exploring its streets, why not browse its second-hand book stores with faded armchairs, discover its designer boutiques with clothes designed in Barcelona or choose a custom-made piece of jewellery at one of its many workshops.

Casa Vicens

Opened to the public only a few years ago, many still don’t know that Gràcia boasts its very own piece of Gaudí. Constituting great architect’s first project, Gaudí was commissioned to build Casa Vicens as a summerhouse for the family of the same name.

This wonderful building will surprise you with its range of influences from far and wide, its varied palette of colours and its spectacular design.

The history beneath your feet at Plaça del Diamant

On first glance, Plaça del Diamant may appear to be just your normal square, however if you look a little closer you’ll discover the history it houses.

Underneath the square is a bomb shelter that was built during the Spanish Civil War with a capacity for 200 people. Tickets are only €3 and must be booked in advance.

Plaça del Diamant - Neighbourhood of Gràcia

We hope you love the area as much as us! Let us know, what’s your favourite thing to do in Gràcia?

Bomb Shelters in Barcelona: Complete guide

February 11, 2020March 1, 2021Natàlia Gibernau

Bomb shelters in Barcelona? Yes, almost 82 years on, you’d never know that Barcelona was once the target of repeated and systematic airstrikes during the Spanish Civil War.

It’s 16 March, 1938, and 41 hours of non-stop bombing is about to be unleashed on the city. Over three days, there were 670 deaths and 1,200 wounded during the Bombing of Barcelona by the Italian Aviazione Legionaria Italiana, upon the orders of General Franco and Mussolini.

With attacks every three hours, the panic and terror was real. Luckily, over 1,400 bomb shelters were constructed in the city primarily by Barcelona’s very own citizens. Men were tasked with the construction, whilst women and children excavated the labyrinth of underground tunnels.

Despite over thousands of air-raid shelters being built, still many of Barcelona’s population struggled to find shelter. In these cases, the metro tunnels and stations were also used as makeshift shelters, with the station at Universitat being an example of this.

We propose an alternative route that is often overlooked by tourists and locals. If you’re looking for route that will open your eyes to Barcelona’s history, this is it!

Refugi 307

One of the largest and most fascinating shelters in the city, Refugi (Shelter) 307 is located at the foot of Montjuïc mountain. It was the neighbourhood of Poble Sec that was one of the city’s most badly affected areas.

Get ready to discover over 400 metres of narrow tunnels with space for up to 2,000 people, plus a kitchen, bathroom facilities and even a pharmacy.

There are guided visits ever Sunday morning at 10.30 in English, 11.30 in Spanish and 12.30 in Catalan. Tickets are €3.50 and prior booking here is necessary.

Bomb shelters in Barcelona - Refugi 307 — Refugi 307 – Bomb shelters in Barcelona

Carrer Nou de la Rambla, 175

Refugi Antiaeri de la Plaça del Diamant

Around 90 shelters were built in the neighbourhood of Gràcia, with the Plaça del Diamant Air-raid Shelter being the most well known, with 250 metres of tunnels and capacity for around 200 people.

It was discovered in 1992 during the construction of a power station in the square, thanks to which it was restored and opened to the public in 2006.

Guided visits include a tour of the underground shelter with actors playing the roles of locals seeking shelter in order to survive the bombing. Visits in Spanish and English (upon request) are every second Sunday of the month and can be booked here.

Plaça del Diamant

Refugi del Palau de les Heures

Despite being the smallest air-raid shelter on our tour, this one is, without a doubt, the best preserved. Discover its 40 metres of tunnels lit by the same lights that were used over 80 years ago, thanks to its restored electrics system.

Located at this stunning palace in the north of the city, the shelter was constructed specifically to protect the then President of the Government of Catalonia, Lluís Companys. Visits can be arranged by contacting the University of Barcelona, the current owners of the building.

Passeig de la Vall d’Hebron, 171

Bomb shelters in Barcelona - Palau de les Heures — Bomb shelters in Barcelona – Palau de les Heures

An additional tip to complete the tour: One of the most devastating events during the attack was when a bomb was dropped on the corner of the streets Balmes and Gran Vía, hitting a truck filled with TNT. Today, you can visit a cross in the place where it fell in memory of those killed and wounded during these days that Barcelona will never forget.

Let yourself be amazed by these never-ending underground tunnels beneath the streets of Barcelona.

Barcelona is replete with history, don’t miss it on your next visit!

8 Best viewpoints in Barcelona

January 3, 2020October 28, 2020Natàlia Gibernau

Looking for best viewpoints in Barcelona? Barcelona is a beautiful city that is full of many interesting and peculiar sights, but one of the best ways to see Barcelona and truly be able to appreciate it is from above. Here we’ve compiled a list of the eight best viewpoints in Barcelona, so you can truly appreciate this wonderous and vibrant city in all its glory, taking in its unique skyline.

Best viewpoints in Barcelona

Mirador d’Horta

On the road from Cerdanyola to Horta, you will find this little observation deck with a sweeping view of the city to the left, and the district of Horta right in front spreading all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. One of the quirkiest features of this dazzling spot, and one of the best viewpoints in Barcelona, is a little wooden swing – if you get the angle just right you can take an original looking picture where it looks like you’re swinging out over the whole city.

Mirador de Colom

You may have seen the giant Columbus Monument that stands proudly at the end of La Rambla, but did you know you can actually go up it? Built in 1888 in tribute to Christopher Columbus, the column houses a lift that will take you up 51 metres to the top for just €5.40. Based on the columns positioning, you will get a unique view of the city, with the mountain of Montjuïc to one side, the Olympic Marina to the other, and the bustling craziness of La Rambla and the Gothic quarter behind you.

Mirador de Sarrià

Collserolla park, the natural beautiful hilly park that surrounds Barcelona is an area you should visit if you want to get away from the city for a breath of fresh air. It is at the gateway to this park that you will find Mirador de Sarrià, for a spectacular view of the sprawling metropolis framed by nature. About 250 metres high, this viewpoint takes a little walking but there is also the option to take a cable car up to enjoy the view. Once you are up there it is worth exploring the rest of the natural park as well for a nice day trip without leaving the city.

Mirador Torre de Collserola

If you’ve ever looked up toward the magical site of the Cathedral that sits at the top of Tibidabo, there is no doubt you have also seen the telecommunications tower that stands just to the side of it. The tower stands at 288 metres tall, making it the highest structure in the city. That combined with the fact that it’s high up on a hill above Barcelona, you can just imagine the kind of views it provides. Climb to the tenth floor to reach the observation deck where you can enjoy these spectacular views for just €5.60.

Mirador Turó de la Rovira

More commonly known as Bunkers del Carmel and known to be one of the best viewpoints in Barcelona, this is a fantastic viewpoint of the city to go and relax with some drinks and snacks. A beautiful vista of the city laid out in front of you, the relaxed atmosphere here, where you may find yourself surrounded by locals, is the perfect spot for a date – as long as they’re not put off by the short climb. Mirador Turó de la Rovira is also not a place short of history as it contains the remains of an anti-aircraft bunker that was used to defend Barcelona from air attacks during the Spanish Civil War, as well as the remains of a shantytown, that was closed in 1990.

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador Tuó de la Rovira - Búnkers del Carmel — Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador Turó de la Rovira or Bunkers del Carmel

Mirador from the Castle of Montjuïc

An old military fortress that stands atop Montjuïc mountain, with roots dating as far back as 1640, the view from the top is almost as spectacular as the location itself. Some 173 metres above sea level, from here you can see the city and sea stretching in front of you in all its glory. If you don’t fancy the climb up the hill, don’t worry as there are fun cable cars you can get to the top.

best viewpoints in Barcelona - Mirador Montjuïc Castle — Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador Castle of Montjuïc

Mirador at Las Arenas

Located in Plaça Espanya, you will find Las Arenas shopping mall, its unique round structure because of its former incarnation as a bull fighting arena. Rather than just shopping here, the mall also has an option to take a lift up to the roof for an interesting 360-degree view of Barcelona. If you want a more relaxed visit you can visit the first floor of the viewpoint which hosts a number of bars and restaurants, which allow you to enjoy the view while having a drink or even dinner.

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador las arenas — Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador Las Arenas

Mirador at Jardins de Miramar

Another viewpoint that stands atop Montjuïc is the Jardins de Miramar. From here you can see all of the city sights starting with the neighborhood of Poble Sec located just below the mountain and then spreading all the way to the outer edges of the city. This spot can be especially nice at sunset on a clear day when the setting sun casts a golden hue over the city. If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, why not stop off at Terraza Martínez, a trendy Mediterranean restaurant that’s the perfect location for lunch or a drink with a view.

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador Jardins de Miramar — Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador Jardins de Miramar

Whatever it is you’re looking for, be it a viewpoint set in a beautiful natural setting, or a place to relax with a drink and take in the beautiful city, with our list of the best viewpoints in Barcelona, you can be sure to have an amazing experience.

9 Things To Do in Ciutat Vella – Barcelona Travel Guide

August 29, 2019June 14, 2021Natàlia Gibernau

Barcelona’s Ciutat Vella — ‘old town’ in Catalan — is overflowing with rich cultural and historical heritage.

The streets of the Ciutat Vella tell the story of the city’s origins right up to the present day: from ancient monuments and historic buildings, to bars and restaurants, alternative boutiques, and sun-drenched squares buzzing with tourists and locals alike.

With so much on offer, it’s no wonder this area is one of the city’s most popular tourist hotspots.

The Ciutat Vella of Barcelona, once surrounded by medieval city walls, covers four of Barcelona’s main neighbourhoods — El Raval, El Barri Gòtic, El Born and La Barceloneta. With such a sprawling area to explore, it’s difficult to know where to start. To make sure you don’t miss out, we’ve put together a list of the top nine things to do in Barcelona’s Ciutat Vella.

1. La Rambla

No trip to Barcelona is complete without a visit to the city’s most emblematic street: La Rambla.

Take a stroll down this lively promenade, which joins the iconic Plaça Catalunya with the Columbus Monument, and discover historical monuments, flower stalls, live statues, outdoor restaurants, and much more.

La Rambla - Things to do in Gothic quarter - Things to do in Ciutat Vella — La Rambla – Things to do in Ciutat Vella

2. El Mercat de la Boqueria

Located on La Rambla, this is a world-famous food market brimming with historic tradition. With Catalan modernist-style architecture, la Boqueria is the link between Barcelona’s past and present.

Take in the colours and aromas of fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, meats and spices, or grab a seat at one of the stalls and order tapas of seafood or cured Iberian meats.

3.Gran Teatre del Liceu

Keep walking on La Rambla and you’ll stumble across another of Barcelona’s iconic cultural symbols, El Liceu.

Since its opening in 1847, this opera house has heard the greatest tenors and sopranos of the times. It can be enjoyed from the outside, on a guided tour, or by reserving tickets for the next show. Check out what’s currently on here.

Gran Teatre del Liceu - Things to do in Gothic Quarter - Things to do in Ciutat Vella

4. Plaça Reial

Just a few metres from La Rambla, you’ll find Plaça Reial. Seek shade below its towering palm trees and take in the stunning central fountain. Don’t leave without snapping a photo of the square’s exquisite lampposts, which are some of Gaudí’s earliest works.

Plaça Reial Barcelona - Things to do in Gothic Quarter - Things to do in Barcelona

5. Museu d’Història de Barcelona (MUHBA)

If you’re curious about the origins of Barcelona, visit the Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA) and take a journey through time. Wander the Roman streets of Barcino and discover medieval ruins, most of which are located below Plaça del Rei.

Roman ruins in barcelona - plaça del rei

6. Cathedral of Barcelona

With its unique Catalan gothic style, the cathedral of Barcelona is not to be passed by. Let yourself be amazed by its numerous gargoyles and towering spires found right in the heart of the city’s Gothic Quarter.

Cathedral of Barcelona - Things to do in Gothic Quarter - Things to do in Barcelona

7. Plaça de Sant Felip Neri

Escape the crowds and seek peace and tranquillity in the quaint and romantic square of Sant Felip Neri. Yet what is unique about this square is its tragic history. The damage to the church’s walls after a bombing during the Spanish Civil War is still visible to this day.

8. Palau de la Música Catalana

The Catalan Concert Hall can be described as no other than the city’s jewel of modernism. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this exquisite form of modernist architecture will not disappoint.

9. Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA)

Enter the creative world of Barcelona’s Museum of Modern Art and discover an array of thought-provoking exhibitions by both local and international artists or simply marvel at this outstanding contemporary structure. What’s more, entry is free every Saturday from 4 pm to 6 pm.

Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA) - Thing to do in Gothic Quarter - Things to do in Barcelona

Delve a little deeper into the history of this beautiful city and discover Barcelona’s most fascinating side. With so much to choose from, Barcelona certainly has a little something to offer everyone.