Barcelona History

Writings about Barcelona History, whether you are a history buff or casually interested in some the stuff the dead people did to shape the modern Barcelona

The 10 most famous historical monuments in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Are you curious about which are the 10 most famous historical monuments in Barcelona?

Barcelona is a captivating city that boasts a vibrant history and culture, making it a top destination for tourists from all over the world. From Gaudí’s stunning architecture to the city’s fascinating museums, Barcelona offers visitors a rich and diverse experience. One of the highlights of any trip to Barcelona is undoubtedly its iconic historical landmarks. These monuments are not only stunning in their own right, but they also offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past and cultural heritage. In this article, we will take you on a journey to explore the top 10 most famous historical monuments in Barcelona, giving you an insider’s look into the beauty and history that this amazing city has to offer

La Sagrada Família

La Sagrada Família in one of the most famous historical monuments in Barcelona. It’s one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks of the city. It is a massive Roman Catholic church designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, who spent over 40 years of his life designing and building it. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors every year.

10 most famous historical monuments in Barcelona
10 most famous historical monuments in Barcelona – La Sagrada Família

Park Güell

Park Güell is another most famous historical monument in Barcelona and creation of Antoni Gaudí. It is a public park filled with whimsical sculptures, mosaics, and colorful architecture. The park’s centerpiece is a large terrace with undulating curves, supported by a forest of columns. The terrace offers stunning views of the city, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

10 most famous historical monuments in Barcelona - Park Guell
10 most famous historical monuments in Barcelona – Park Güell

Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló is a unique building designed by Antoni Gaudí, located in the heart of the city. It is known for its vibrant colors and curving lines, which give the building an organic feel. The facade of the building is decorated with ceramic tiles and broken glass, creating a shimmering effect that changes with the light. The interior of the building is just as impressive, with its flowing lines, stained glass windows, and ornate details.

10 most famous historical monuments in Barcelona - Park Güell
Casa Batlló

Casa Milà

Casa Milà is another of the most famous historical monuments in Barcelona and creation of Antoni Gaudí. Also known as La Pedrera. The modernist building was built between 1906 and 1912 and is considered one of Gaudí’s most important works. The building’s undulating facade, with its irregular balconies and chimneys, is an iconic sight in Barcelona. Today, Casa Milà is a museum that showcases Gaudí’s life and work, and is a popular destination for art and architecture enthusiasts.

You might also like this article about Antoni Gaudí’s buildings:

A tour of 10 Gaudí buildings in Barcelona
Casa Milà - most famous monuments in Barcelona
Casa Milà

Montserrat Monastery

Located on the mountain of Montserrat, about an hour’s drive from Barcelona, the Montserrat Monastery is a Benedictine abbey that dates back to the 11th century. The monastery is famous for its stunning views, beautiful architecture, and a famous statue of the Virgin Mary, known as La Moreneta. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics and is also home to the Montserrat Boys’ Choir, one of the oldest in Europe.

Montserrat Monastery Barcelona
Montserrat Monastery

Palau de la Música Catalana

The Palau de la Música Catalana is a concert hall located in the city center of Barcelona. It is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, with its ornate facade, colorful stained glass windows, and a large skylight that floods the concert hall with natural light. The concert hall hosts some of the world’s most famous musicians and orchestras, making it a must-visit for music lovers.

Palau de la Música Catalana
Palau de la Música Catalana

Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter is the historic center of Barcelona and is known for its narrow streets, beautiful Gothic architecture, and ancient Roman ruins. It is a popular tourist destination that offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. The quarter is home to many of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks, including the Barcelona Cathedral and the Plaça Reial.

Check this article about the Gothic Quarter out!

Gothic Quarter Barcelona
Gothic Quarter

La Boqueria Market

La Boqueria Market is part of the most famous historical monuments in Barcelona and its a famous public market located in the heart of the city, close to Las Ramblas. It is known for its colorful stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. It is a must-visit destination for foodies and offers a taste of the city’s culinary delights.

Mercat de la Boqueria Barcelona
Mercat de la Boqueria

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a spectacular fountain located in the Montjuïc neighborhood of Barcelona. It was built in 1929 for the International Exhibition and was renovated in the 1980s. The fountain offers a colorful water and light show that is synchronized to music, attracting tourists and locals alike. The show is free to watch and is a must-see attraction in Barcelona.

Magic Fountain Barcelona - best monuments in Barcelona
Magic Fountain

Barcelona Cathedral

The Barcelona Cathedral is another of the most famous historical monuments in Barcelona and is a Gothic-style cathedral located in the Gothic Quarter. It was built between the 13th and 15th centuries and is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and rich history. The cathedral is home to many works of art, including a choir stall carved by Bartolome Bermejo and a crypt that contains the remains of Saint Eulàlia, the patron saint of Barcelona.

Barcelona Cathedral - best monuments in barcelona
Barcelona Cathedral

The Catalan city is filled with some of the world’s most famous historical monuments of Barcelona. From the stunning La Sagrada Família to the colorful Park Güell, there is no shortage of attractions to explore. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a foodie, Barcelona has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on these top 10 must-see landmarks in Barcelona.

Have you visited any of these wonderful places in Barcelona?

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What are Castells and why they are so famous in Catalonia and around the world?

Natàlia Gibernau

Castells, or human towers, are one of the symbols of Catalonia. In this article we’re going to tell you a little bit more about their history and how they have become so popular today, not only in the region, but also around the world.

Chances are if you’ve spent some time in Barcelona or Catalonia, you may have come across these simply breath-taking towers built by castellers with their bodies, by climbing up each other’s backs and standing on the shoulders of the person below.

Castells - Concurs de Castells a Tarragona
Castells Contest in Tarragona

The history of castells

Despite the origin of castells – meaning castle in Catalan – being slightly unclear, it is thought that they come from similar, smaller structures erected at the end of traditional dances – specifically the Valencian dance from the 15th century.

However it wasn’t until much later, in 1801, that the first castell was documented in la Candela, Valls (Tarragona). It was here that they were first built with the aim of constructing original and increasingly taller human towers, and not as part of a dance. From this moment on, these mind-bending structures became an essential part of local celebrations and festivals.

It wasn’t until the late 20th century that this tradition truly began to be recognised in all its glory. Unlike other Catalan customs, like the traditional dance the sardana and the Catalan flag and national anthem, castells were not prohibited during Franco’s reign.

It was in the 90s that it became more commonplace to find castells and colles (community groups of castellers who practice castells) throughout the whole region of Catalonia and over a decade ago, in 2020, they were recognised as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

So, what makes castells so special?

Over the years castells have become ever more complex, reaching heights of up to 10 people. Anyone can take part – men, women and children over the age of 5 of varying strengths, heights and sizes – but it’s certainly not for the faint hearted. Extensive training sessions are required.

In fact, nowadays a total of 13,000 people in Catalonia call themselves castellers and there are over 100 colles castelleres.

To explain exactly how these towers are built, we’ll need to brush up on our castells vocabulary!

The base of the tower is called the pinya. Arguably the most important part of the tower, it holds its entire weight and will absorb the impact of any falls. Next comes the tronc, or the trunk, which is the main body of the tower, formed by two to five levels. The heavier castellers are at the bottom and the lighter, more agile nearer the top.

On top of the tronc sits the pom de dalt – literally the upper part. It is formed mainly by children, wearing safety helmets. And finally, on the very top goes the enxaneta: a young child who climbs the entire structure to the summit and raises his or her hand for the tower to be considered complete.

However for the castell to be considered valid, it must be taken down slowly without anyone falling. The leader of the group – known as the cap de colla – who has perspective over the entire structure from the ground, guides the castellers through the entire construction and deconstruction.

Castellers de Viafranca - Castells
Castellers de Vilafranca – Castells

What else do I need to know about castells?

To accompany this wonderful sight and, more importantly, to mark the rhythm and coordination of the entire structure, live music is played as the castell is built. This particular music is called the toc de castells and is played by gralles – a Catalan type of flute– and timbals, a percussion instrument.

You’ll also realise that the casteller uniform is very important. Each group wears a shirt of a specific colour with an embroidered crest of the city or village to which they belong.

Where can I see castells?

Now you know all about them, we bet you can’t wait to see one in action. The good news is that at almost any local festivity or celebration, you’re sure to catch one of these towers being built.

Castells are normally constructed in main squares in front of the town hall. Some of the best can be seen during Barcelona’s festa major, Sant Jordi or the upcoming day of La Mercè.

Despite castells being recently approved by the local government, with a maximum duration of 15 minutes, this year’s day of La Mercè will see a condensed format of this tradition on Passeig de Gràcia on 24 September at noon, in line with COVID-19 restrictions.

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Barcelona for couples: Complete Guide to this romantic European city

Natàlia Gibernau

This article on Barcelona for couples is a great resource for those looking for a romantic getaway. You might wonder whether Barcelona is a good destination for couples. We believe Barcelona makes for a great getaway for couples for several reasons we are going to explore in this article.

Barcelona is a special and romantic city because it offers a unique combination of culture, energy, and natural beauty. Discover Barcelona for couples here! Its vibrant atmosphere, stunning architecture, and breathtaking coastline make it an ideal destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

Barcelona for couples
Looking the sun going down in Barcelona – Barcelona for couples

What neighbourhoods to explore on a romantic trip to Barcelona for couples?

Firstly, the city has a rich culture and history that is evident in its architecture, museums, and art galleries. This provides a great opportunity for couples to explore the city’s cultural offerings together.

Why not take a stroll together hand in hand through the city’s stunning Gothic Quarter? Its narrow streets, charming plazas, and ancient architecture make for a romantic backdrop for a leisurely walk with your significant other and are why we love Barcelona for couples trips.

El Born is also considered a romantic neighborhood in Barcelona. It also has a charming and historic atmosphere, with narrow streets and medieval buildings.

El Born is known for its lively and bohemian atmosphere, with plenty of cosy cafes, bars, and restaurants that offer a great opportunity for couples to enjoy a romantic evening out.

Don’t miss the Picasso Museum, which showcases the artist’s early works and provides a unique and artistic experience for couples to explore together. El Born is also close to the Parc de la Ciutadella, which offers a peaceful escape from the busy city center and a great opportunity for couples to take a romantic stroll or have a picnic. Check out our favourite things to do in El Born here.

What are fun things to do in Barcelona for couples?

If you’re looking for something unique, original and fun to do in Barcelona for couples, you can take cooking class together: Barcelona is known for its delicious cuisine, and taking a cooking class with your significant other can be a fun and romantic way to learn about the local food and culture.

Secondly, Barcelona has a lively atmosphere and is full of energy and vitality, making it an exciting and vibrant destination. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and cafes, which offer a great opportunity for couples to enjoy a romantic evening out.

There are plenty of rooftop restaurants and terraces in Barcelona for couples who love contemplating stunning views of the city, while enjoying a delicious meal with their loved one. Check out our favourite here.

What are some romantic activities to do on a romantic trip to Barcelona for couples?

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Barcelona has a unique and beautiful natural setting. Couples can take a romantic stroll along one of the city’s nine beaches. Read more about them here.

There are also many companies that offer sunset cruises along the coast in Barcelona for couples, where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon while sipping champagne with your loved one. We did tell you Barcelona is a romantic city!

Surprise your loved one with a different activity! When the sun is shining, we recommend renting a bike in Barcelona for couples and exploring the city together. It’s a great way to see the sights while also getting some exercise.

What else is there to see on your romantic trip to Barcelona for couples?

Barcelona is also home to many famous landmarks, which provide a great opportunity for couples to explore together and create memories. Additionally, the city is known for its innovative and modernist architecture, which sets it apart from other European destinations.

For example, Park Güell by Gaudí is a popular attraction for tourists, but it’s also a great place in Barcelona for couples to take in whimsical, colourful tiles by this modernist genius and contemplate the stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

The iconic Sagrada Família is a must-see attraction in Barcelona, and it’s also a romantic spot to admire the intricate architecture and stained-glass windows. Visit early morning to beat the crowds and marvel at the first rays of sun shining through the coloured glass – what could be more romantic?

Where to stay on your romantic trip to Barcelona for couples?

At Bizflats we have apartments located in a quiet and romantic areas of the city, such as the Gothic quarter, home to narrow streets, charming plazas, and ancient architecture that provide a romantic backdrop.

There’s our spacious and contemporary MACCA apartment or our welcoming one-bedroom Catedral apartment with an intimate, private courtyard. What could be more perfect for your romantic stay in the Gothic quarter?

In our apartments you’ll find a range of amenities that cater to couples, such as balconies with a view, sun-kissed terraces, and cosy and intimate studios, with enough space for a couple to relax and unwind.

For more options, check out our short guide to our best apartments or visit our website to find accommodation that is perfect for an unforgettable romantic getaway with your partner.

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Things to Do in One day in the Gothic Quarter

Natàlia Gibernau

The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is steeped in history and brimming with charm. From its narrow cobbled streets, stunning architecture and historical ornament, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.

But, we hear you ask, how many buildings in the Gothic Quarter are actually Gothic? In actual fact, fewer than you would imagine, as many of the buildings in this quarter were built in the 19th and 20th centuries. However, this doesn’t take away from the fact that this neighbourhood is one of Barcelona’s most beautiful!

This article is packed with the best tips and things to see in one day in Barcelona’s stunning Gothic Quarter – discover its most historical monuments, hidden-away squares and the history written on its walls.

Things to do in the gothic quarter
Things to Do in the Gothic Quarter

Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia (Barcelona Cathedral)

Plà de la Seu

We’ll start our tour of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter – previously known as the Cathedral Quarter – at this stunning monument. Built during the 13th and 14th centuries, this is one of the few examples of Catalan Gothic architecture in this area.  Get your tickets online here starting from €9, or visit in the morning before 12:45 or in the evening after 17:30 for free admission.

Eglésia de Santa Maria del Pi

Plaça del Pi

Another truly Gothic gem in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona is this stunningly beautiful 14th-century church. Don’t miss its stunning stained glass rose window and its tranquil interior, which often hosts candlelit concerts.

Plaça Sant Felipe Neri

This quaint square in the Gothic Quarter is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre for a moment of peace. Yet the vestiges of its tragic past are visible on the walls of its Baroque church, which was subject to a horrific attack during the Spanish Civil War in January 1938.

Shopping at Avinguda Portal de l’Àngel

One of Barcelona’s liveliest shopping streets can be found in the Gothic Quarter. Head south from Plaça Catalunya and you can’t miss this commercial hub. With some of the best brands – including Zara, Mango, H&M, Pull&Bear and more – you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Plaça Sant Jaume

This square in the Gothic Quarter is home to the Casa de la Ciutat (the City Council) of Barcelona, which despite being built in the 14th century, has a neoclassical façade. It’s open to the public on Sundays from 10am to 2pm and admission is free.

This square is also home to the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya – the seat of the Catalan government – with Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance features.

Museu d’Història de Barcelona, MUHBA

Plaça del Rei

Step back in time at the Barcelona History Museum, where you can explore the ruins of the Roman settlement of Barcino. Here you’ll find the remnants of a former fish factory, a bodega, a church and more!

‘The Kiss’ Mural

Plaça d’Isidre Nonell

One of the most photographed spots in Barcelona is in the Gothic Quarter! This unique piece of street art is made up of hundreds of mosaic photo tiles submitted by locals capturing their very own ‘moments of freedom’.

Find more instagrammable spots in the Gothic Quarter and further afield in our article.

El Pont del Bisbe (The Bishop’s Bridge)

Carrer del Bisbe

This narrow cobbled street and bridge is one of the most famous sights in the Gothic Quarter. Despite its appearance, its not even 100 years old, and was built by Joan Rubió – one of Gaudí’s disciples – to join these two buildings.

Plaça Reial

This beautiful square shaded by palm trees was once home to the Caputxins Convent. Today, its stunning architecture overlooks some of the city’s most popular nightlife spots, and you’ll often stumble across street performers and artists in one of the city’s liveliest squares.

Don’t miss the two street lamps in its centre designed by Gaudí himself. If you want to discover more pieces by the master of modernisme, check out our article here.

El Temple d’August

Carrer del Paradís, 10

This Roman temple dedicated to the Emperor Augustus is a hidden gem in the city’s Gothic Quarter. What’s left today are four beautifully preserved columns surrounded by a peaceful courtyard, just behind the cathedral.

So there you have it, our mini guide to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Don’t forget to check out our apartments in the Gothic Quarter to make sure you don’t miss a thing on your trip to Barcelona.

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The Three Kings Day in Barcelona

Natàlia 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 5th 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.

Three Kings Day

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.

Three kings day in barcelona - Reis Mags
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.

Tortell de Reis - Three kings day

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.

Your Complete Guide to La Mercè 2022

Natàlia 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!

La Mercè 2022
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 June – Discover the best plans

Natàlia Gibernau

Wondering what to do in Barcelona in June? We’ve got you covered with the best plans in this article. The summer is here and you’ll be delighted to know, after two years of pandemic, it’s packed with amazing plans for all tastes, ages and budgets. Find out how to make the most of the longest days of the year!

From outdoor events, traditional festivities, art exhibitions, and – above all – an eclectic mix of music festivals and concerts, there’s something for everyone who doesn’t know what to do in Barcelona in June.

So here’s our list of what to do in Barcelona in June with our top 8 plans!

Barcelona in June - Primavera Sound
Barcelona in June – Primavera Sound

Primavera Sound ­– 1 June to 12 June

Parc del Fòrum, Carrer de la Pau, 12

Kicking off the month is Primavera Sound. After being postponed for two years, Barcelona’s biggest festival is back with two weeks packed full of the best music. Expect innovative, inspiring and ground-breaking beats signed by Dua Lipa, Tame Impala, The Strokes, Gorillaz, Massive Attack, Beck, Yeah Yeah Yeahs and many more big names. Parc del Fòrum will come to life with buzzing live performances.

Fito & Fitipaldis – 4 June

Palau Sant Jordi, Passeig Olímpic, 5-7, 08038

The amazing Fito and his band take to the stage at Barcelona’s Palau Sant Jordi, performing songs from their latest album alongside some of their biggest hits. An unmissable date for fans and a must on our list of what to do in Barcelona in June.

Festival dels Jardins de Pedralbes – 7 June to 24 July

Avinguda Diagonal, 686, 08034

We couldn’t not include one of the most-awaited music events of the year on our list of what to do in Barcelona in June. This festival here with big names in jazz, pop, rock and more, in the most magical setting that is the Pedralbes gardens. Kicked off on the 7 June by James Blunt, this year will feature live performances by Simply Red, Crystal Fighters, Madness and more. See you there!

Sónar – June 16 to June 18

Avda. Reina Maria Cristina, s/n, 08004 and Av. Joan Carles I, 64, 08908

A ground-breaking electronic music festival that since 1994 has been bringing together creativity, business, technology and music in Barcelona. With nearly 200 activities, this is not your average music festival and is among the best plans for what to do in Barcelona in June. Sónar Day will take place at Fira de Montjuïc from 1pm to midnight, and Sónar Night at Fira Gran Via l’Hospitalet from early evening to the early hours. Highlights include The Chemical Brothers, The Blaze, Bonobo and Barcelona’s own Maria Arnal i Marcel Bagés.

Verbena de Sant Joan – night of 23 June

As the month comes to a close, if you’re still wondering what to do in Barcelona in June, Sant Joan is a celebration you can’t miss. The night of the 23rd–24th June is the shortest night of the year, and everyone in Barcelona gets together to celebrate the magical summer solstice. Expect fireworks, bonfires, and beach parties until dawn. Don’t forget that the 24th is a bank holiday and many shops and stores will be closed.

Gay Pride Barcelona – 23 to 26 June

After two years without Pride in the city, the much-awaited extravagant, colourful and eclectic parade will take place on Saturday 25th at 5pm, starting at Placa Universitat and ending at Passeig Lluís Companys. This year’s incredible line-up will be released shortly, so keep your eyes peeled for fabulous events taking place throughout the city. Pride 2022 features top on our list of what to do in Barcelona in June!

World of Banksy – throughout June until December 2022

Espai Trafalgar, Carrer de Trafalgar, 34, 08010

After its success Paris, this exhibition with work by the mysterious Bristol-born urban artists hits Barcelona. Featuring some of the renowned street artist’s most popular pieces, including Girl With Balloon and Girl Frisking Soldier.

Festa Major del Casc Antic – end of June

The central old quarter, known as the Casc Antic in Catalan, celebrates a week of festivities every year at the end of June. Although this year’s date has yet to be confirmed, expect correfocs (fire runs), giants and live music in Barcelona’s most central and – arguably most beautiful – neighbourhood steeped in history.

We hope you enjoy our list of what to do in Barcelona in June! With tonnes of things to see and do, you’re sure to make the most of your stay in this fun-packed city.

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Barcelona carnival 2022 – Featured Activities

Natàlia Gibernau

Barcelona Carnival 2022 is here and it promises to be one of the biggest and best ever! Despite being the second carnival during the pandemic, this year Barcelona will host an array of fantastic and flamboyant activities brimming with colour and excitement from 24 February to 2 March.

Barcelona Carnival 2022 will bring freedom and fantasy to all districts in Barcelona, so don’t miss our complete guide to a range of featured activities for young and old!

Barcelona Carnival 2022
Barcelona Carnival 2022

Barcelona Carnival 2022: Thursday, 24 March

Just like every year, Barcelona Carnival 2022 will be kicked off on Jueves Lardero, or Fat Thursday. Traditionally, this last Thursday before Lent marks the start of the celebrations and feasting before the upcoming period of fasting.

El Arribo – 5:45 pm

This year, El Arribo opening ceremony will take place on La Rambla in honour of all those who work in kiosks, and will be presented by King Tòtil and Queen Belluga.

This magical parade will end at Palau de la Virreina to hold the much-awaited Taronjada. This rebellious event dates back to 1333 when the Council of One Hundred prohibited the throwing of oranges, and is celebrated this Barcelona Carnival 2022 with the throwing of orange confetti and fireworks.

Culinary events

Similar to past years, Barcelona Carnival 2022 will welcome an array of gastronomic events on Dijous Llarder, from omelette competitions, coca bread tasting events, show cooking, and much more.

Highlights include the truita tasting and concert at 6 pm at the Centre Cívic Font de la Guatlla, the Centre Cívic el Coll’s Fat Thursday for the elderly at 5 pm and La Violeta Omelette contest at 8pm. What’s more, anyone can take part in the ninth edition of Entruita’t’. Find more information about this online omelette competition here.

And whilst we’re on the topic of food, don’t forget to try the traditional coca de llardons: this pork crackling bread topped with pine nuts is one of the most typical sweet-and-savoury Barcelona Carnival 2022 treats.

Barcelona Carnival 2022: Friday, 25 March – Saturday, 26 March

On the 25th, Barcelona Carnival 2022 brings us a plethora of parades, or Rúas. With 30 in total around the entire city, you’ll be spoiled for choice. This year, Barcelona Carnival 2022 will bring the city’s Old Quarter to life with a special event for kids at 5.45 pm, with two colourful parades starting from Plaça de la Mercè and Plaça de la Acadèmia respectively, and ending in Plaça del Rei.

Highlights on Saturday 25th include the ‘Carnavalassu adult’ (5 pm) with a parade starting at Sant Felip Neri and ending at Avinguda Francesc Cambó. Gràcia’s main parade will start at 6 pm in the Jardinets de Gràcia and will end at Plaça de la Vila. And in Les Corts things get started at 4:30 pm in La Plaça Comas, and will finish with a chocolate event and entertainment for kids in Plaça de Can Rosés.

Unlike in other towns and cities, which save the best for Sunday, Barcelona on Saturday will be brimming with a range of parades, pageants and processions in addition to workshops, tasting events, costume parties and masquerades. There are so many events to choose from in fact, we recommend checking out the official city council website to find out what’s going on in your area.

Barcelona Carnival 2022: Wednesday, 2 March

In Christian cultures around the world, Ash Wednesday celebrates the start of Lent. Bringing Barcelona Carnival 2022 to a close will be the traditional “Burial of the Sardine”. This ritual marks the seven days of decadence and celebration and gives way to a time of sobriety and abstinence. This procession symbolises a burial of the past to make way for the new and is an event that cannot be missed.

This Barcelona Carnival 2022, there are eight different burials to choose from in the city, each with its own peculiar traditions. Catch parodies of funeral processions, the burning of the King of Carnival and community meals of… you guessed it – sardines!

Some highlights include the Centre Cívic de Guinardó’s New Orleans-style sardine burial at 5:30 pm and the burial of the King of Carnival at 7 pm at the Cotxeres de Sants auditorium, to bring this magical time to a close.

But wait… it’s not over yet! La Barceloneta will celebrate its very own Carnival the following weekend. So get ready for more fun and frivolities!

From bizFlats, we wish you a very merry Barcelona Carnival 2022!

Barcelona carnival poster