Barcelona Life in the City

The Barcelona Life in the City showcases the great lifestyle the we locals enjoy, so you too can dive in and make the most of your stay.

Visit the Incredible Montserrat Monastery

Explore the Montserrat Monastery, One of the Best Attractions of Barcelona

bizFlats

Barcelona is a dream vacation spot due to its countless, intriguing attractions!  The Montserrat Monastery near Barcelona has been a place of great religious significance for generations.  What began as a Roman temple to worship Venus transformed into a monastery in 880 A.D. by hermit monks.  It has been said that unbelievable miracles occurred here in the 12th century that caused tremendous growth in the monastery.  Today, this attraction is still a destination of pilgrimages and also serves as a place for people to visit and learn about the history of this area.  Discover what this attraction has to offer and make plans to see it today!

Getting to the Montserrat Monastery from Barcelona

The Montserrat Monastery is perched atop a towering mountain, overlooking breathtaking views of Spain.  If you’re traveling to this attraction from Barcelona and wondering how to get there, you can catch a train from the Barcelona-Plaça Espanya Station that leaves every hour and will carry you up the steep, dizzying incline to this majestic destination above.  The Montserrat Monastery hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. and is open all week long.  Tickets can be purchased through the Montserrat Monastery website.

History and Art of the Montserrat Monastery

Over one thousand years of preserved artwork and historical artifacts are kept here in this beautiful establishment.  These pieces total to almost 1,300 items; the oldest of these collections can be traced all the way back to 13th century BC Egypt.  In addition to numerous icons and liturgical objects from all places and time periods, the Museum of the Montserrat is home to countless paintings created by some of the most talented artists in the world, including Picasso and Salvador Dali.  One of the most beloved pieces here, however, is the statue of the Black Madonna at Montserrat Monastery; visitors and locals alike flock to see this beautiful representation the patron saint of Catalonia.  

Things to Do at the Montserrat Monastery

In addition to touring the many art displays and history exhibits, the Montserrat Monastery offers many other activities as well.  An interactive audiovisual room is available to help visitors learn more about the three pillars that support this institution: the mountain, the sanctuary, and the monastery.  For further education, you can also take a Montserrat Monastery map and an audio guide to lead you on a tour of the Holy Cave, the Basilica, and the Degatolls’ Path.   

Hiking near the Montserrat Monastery

This area also includes the Montserrat Nature Park, a gorgeous portion of the great outdoors that contains numerous trails for walking and hiking.  Go on a stroll along the Hermitage Trail, where individuals traversed for years and years to reach a place of peace for quiet meditation and contemplation.  You can also climb to the top of the Montserrat Peak for jaw-dropping, panoramic views of the surrounding scenery, or take a one-day course on rock climbing to learn a new, exciting skill!  Experienced hikers love the challenge that the Cavall Bernat presents; this long, slender rock needle protruding from the face of the mountain is a climb meant only for expert outdoorsmen!

Come Stay with Us at bizFlats Vacation Rentals!

Complete your fantastic getaway to Barcelona by treating yourself to a stay in the finest accommodations!  bizFlats provides luxurious vacation rentals, each equipped with amazing amenities, throughout the most stunning areas of the city.  Check our availability and book your stay today to start planning a trip to remember!

Photo by Андрей Шевченко / Thinkstock

Easter Week in Barcelona – 4 days to celebrate

Natàlia Gibernau

Easter Week in Barcelona is an important time of year at which locals get together with friends and families to celebrate many a festivity, just like many places around the world.

Easter Week

Easter Week is celebrated across the country, from the largest cities to the smallest villages, yet in Barcelona you’re sure to experience celebrations like no other with a long line of typical Catalan traditions.

So if you’re thinking of spending the Easter week in Barcelona, here are a few useful tips to make sure you don’t miss out on the most typical events and cultural traditions.

Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Barcelona 2024: 28th March – 1st April

‘Semana Santa’ translates as Holy Week and it is an important week in the Christian calendar. Barcelona, as part of Catalunya, is traditionally less religious than other parts of Spain, particularly in the South. However, it still has its fair share of celebrations during this period.

Holy week is the week before Easter and starts with Palm Sunday. It includes Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday but does not include Easter Sunday.

Holy week begins on Palm Sunday, when a procession traditionally takes place around the cathedral with people holding palms. A week of religious ceremonies follows, ending on Easter Sunday.

Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday is most likely the most important of all Easter Week in Barcelona. We recommend you head to the Gothic quarter and catch the “La Burreta” (donkey) procession that commemorates Jesus’s arrival in Jerusalem. 

Easter week in Barcelona blessing of the Palm branches
Easter Week in Barcelona

Keep an eye out for the olive and palm branches carried by children to the local churches to be blessed. You’ll also see them hanging from doors and balconies to ward off evil spirits.

Good Friday is another important date in the liturgical calendar. The Cathedral of Barcelona, and many other local churches, will commemorate this day and the Stations of the Cross with a Via Crucis mass.

Typical sweets

When it comes to food, Easter wouldn’t be Easter without its sweet and savoury delicacies. In between exploring the city and its Easter customs, we recommend taking a break and recharging your batteries with the best of Catalan cuisine.

“La Mona” is a local Easter cake typically made from chocolate and decorated with small figures and animals, chocolate eggs and other sweet treats. Today these cakes are true works of art, but they were originally made from a round sweet brioche and topped with hard-boiled eggs with its tradition dating back to Roman times.

Easter week in Barcelona typical Mona de Pascua

Be sure to drop in to a local bakery to marvel at these fantastic creations or pick one up and try it for yourself!

What’s more, as it is Christian tradition not to eat meat on Good Friday, make sure you also try the typical cod dishes served at local restaurants. Our favourite is the salted codfish in a vegetable sauce, bacallà amb sanfaina.

Must visit

If you’re spending the whole week in Barcelona, we’d also recommend day trips to the villages of Cervera or Verges with processions that you won’t see anywhere else in the world. From Cervera’s skeletons that dance the “Dance of Death” to the Verges Procession in which the entire village takes part, be prepared to be amazed.

Easter week in Barcelona celebration and processions

Now you know the dates for Easter Week in 2021 therefore, no excuses for a trip to Barcelona! and now that you have decided to spend Easter Week in Barcelona, why not stay at one of our centrally located flats to make sure you don’t miss a thing?

Discovering the Best Gyms in Barcelona: A Guide to Staying Fit in the City

Natàlia Gibernau

Which are the best gyms in Barcelona?

Barcelona, a city known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, also boasts an impressive array of gyms to keep both locals and visitors active and healthy. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast looking for a high-end experience or someone seeking a more budget-friendly option, Barcelona has something to offer for every preference and fitness goal. In this blog post, we dive into the best gyms in Barcelona, highlighting their unique features, amenities, and what makes them stand out in the bustling city.

Best gyms in Barcelona - David Lloyd Turó
Best gyms in Barcelona – David Lloyd Turó

Arsenal Masculino

One of the best gyms in Barcelona is Arsenal Masculino. The center, located in the Sarrià-Sant Gervasi district, features several pools, a solarium, and jacuzzis, as well as golf courses, paddle tennis courts, and directed classes. The club is exclusive to men, but it also has a center for women in Barcelona.

The gym, situated on Pomaret Street, offers a wide range of prices. The monthly fee for Arsenal Masculino is 290 euros per month, while the monthly fee for Arsenal Femenino is 158 euros. Thus, this sports center is positioned as the most expensive in all of Barcelona.

Bonasport

Bonasport is a Tennis, Padel, Fitness, and Swimming club located in the upper area of Barcelona. It’s a great option if you enjoy racket sports, and its outdoor pool is perfect for family or friends gatherings. The monthly fee is 170 euros.

https://bonasport.com

Metropolitan Iradier 

A complete gym in the upscale area of Pedralbes in Barcelona, ​​boasts 10,000 m2 of spectacular facilities. Upon entering the club, it will seem like you are stepping into an oasis in the middle of the city. It features a Fitness Room, 1,400 hours per month of Activities, Personal Training, Pilates, Swimming Pools (indoor and outdoor), Solarium, Paddle Tennis, Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Nutrition, Aesthetic Medicine, and Beauty Center. Additionally, it has a beautiful garden where you can enjoy drinks with your friends without having to be a member. However, if you want to become a member, please note that there is a waiting list that takes a couple of weeks. The monthly fee is 159 euros. Kids are not allowed.

https://clubmetropolitan.com/gimnasio/barcelona/

Metropolitan Gyms

The Metropolitan gyms are another excellent option for those looking to stay fit in Barcelona. With their emphasis on providing a complete fitness and wellness experience, Metropolitan gyms offer not only extensive workout equipment and classes but also wellness areas that include spas, saunas, and beauty services. These gyms cater to those who view their fitness routine as part of a broader lifestyle choice, integrating physical activity with overall wellness. The serene and supportive atmosphere at Metropolitan is ideal for unwinding after a long day while keeping up with your fitness routine. The monthly fee is 76 euros.

https://clubmetropolitan.com

David Lloyd Turó

David Lloyd Turó is located on Diagonal, at the entrance of Barcelona, right in front of Parque Cervantes. It is a family club where you will find group activities, a gym, and above all, tennis and paddle courts. The club also has a beautiful swimming pool for the summer and is a very green and welcoming space. The entrance fee is 400 euros and the monthly fee is 132 euros.

https://www.davidlloyd.es/

Holmes Place

Holmes Place has five centers in Barcelona: Urquinaona, Balmes, Les Corts, Gràcia, and Can Dragó. Offers a wide range of fitness classes, and luxurious amenities, creating a holistic wellness environment. Members can enjoy not just the workout facilities but also spa services, nutrition counseling, and personal training sessions designed to cater to individual health and fitness goals. The monthly fee is 80 euros.

https://www.holmesplace.com/

DiR Gyms

Dir gyms are a popular chain across Barcelona, known for their accessibility and variety. With multiple locations throughout the city, Dir makes it easy for anyone to find a convenient place to work out. These gyms offer a broad spectrum of fitness equipment, classes ranging from yoga to high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and swimming pools in select locations. Dir’s affordability and flexible membership options make it a great choice for people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, Dir has something to offer. We make special mention of Dir Diagonal with ample space and a large swimming pool for the summer.
The monthly fee with access to all the clubs is 54 euros.

https://www.dir.cat/en

Low-Cost Gyms: Viva Gym, Simply Gym, Anytime Fitness, Altafit and BCN Fitness

For those on a budget, these gyms offer an affordable way to stay fit without compromising on quality. All gyms are equipped with modern fitness equipment and offer a variety of classes to keep your workouts interesting and effective. The no-frills approach of these low-cost gyms make them a great option for those who prefer a straightforward workout experience. With flexible membership plans and convenient locations, these gyms ensure that staying fit in Barcelona is accessible to everyone.

Fitness Studios via Apps: Urban Sports, ClassPass, Andjoy and more.

Apps like Urban Sports, ClassPass, or Andjoy, offer access to the best gyms in Barcelona as well as to a variety of fitness studios with a single subscription. These platforms cater to those who crave variety and flexibility in their workout routines, allowing users to explore different fitness classes and locations citywide. Whether it’s yoga, swimming, or high-intensity training, these apps open up a world of options, making fitness more accessible and tailored to individual preferences. Ideal for the adventurous and those with ever-changing schedules, these services are revolutionizing the way we engage with fitness in Barcelona.

Outdoor Fitness: Barcelona Beach Workout

For those who prefer the fresh air and natural beauty of the city, the beach is one the best gyms in Barcelona. They offer a fantastic outdoor workout option. Beach workout groups and classes take advantage of the sand and sea to provide a challenging and invigorating fitness experience. From beach volleyball to open-water swimming and sand running, the natural landscape of Barcelona provides a unique and scenic backdrop for staying fit.

Barcelona’s diverse range of gyms and fitness options caters to all preferences and budgets, making it easy for anyone to find their perfect fit. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious wellness experience, a convenient and budget-friendly workout, or a unique outdoor fitness challenge, Barcelona has it all. As you explore these top gyms in the city, you’ll not only keep up with your fitness routine but also immerse yourself in the dynamic and health-conscious culture of Barcelona. Stay fit, stay healthy, and enjoy everything this beautiful city has to offer.

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Best 9 Museums in Barcelona 2024 – Guide for Art Lovers

Natàlia Gibernau

Discover the best museums in Barcelona! No matter where you walk, it’s easy to see that art, culture and architecture form such a huge part in Barcelona’s cultural identity. It’s therefore no surprise that Barcelona is home to a dizzying number of museums, spanning a wide range of topics. For art, museums in Barcelona pay homage to some of the biggest names in art history, like Picasso, Joan Miró, Antonio Tàpies, and also to lesser-known modern day artists; styles ranging from contemporary to Modernism; exhibitions can be of massive large-scale productions of up to a hundred pieces shipped from all over the world, or just a smaller exhibition of a dozen carefully curated pieces. In the best museums in Barcelona, there’s a whole treasure trove of knowledge and culture waiting for you to delve into… Keep reading for our suggestions of best museums in Barcelona.

Bes Museums in Barcelona

National Museum of Art of Catalonia (MNAC)

Located in Montjuïc Palace, MNAC covers Catalan art from the 10th to the 20th century, has exhibitions of art from the Romanesque, Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau, amongst others. Just the building itself is a sight that will inspire – no wonder it is considered one of the best museums in Barcelona.

Best Museums in Barcelona - MNAC

Picasso Museum

Opened in 1963, this museum houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist, and also reveals his deep intimate relationship with Barcelona, one that carried on until his death.

Best Museums in Barcelona - Picasso Museum

European Museum of Modern Art (MACBA)

A museum that transcends three centuries: located in a beautiful old 18th-century palace, showcasing the finest figurative contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries.

Joan Miró Museum

One of the best museums in Barcelona, it’s dedicated to Catalan artist and master of Surrealism – Joan Miró. The impressive collection of his work includes paintings, drawings, and sculptures of around a thousand pieces.

Antoni Tàpies Museum

Born in Barcelona, Antoni Tàpies created abstract and imaginative contemporary art with a social message. Here you can view an extensive collection of the Catalan painter’s work during his formative years.

Catalunya History Museum

Travel through time and see how Catalonia’s heritage has changed, from back in the Stone Ages to the modern day. As you explore the exhibition, you’ll walk through the history narrative of the city too.

Frederic Marès Museum

Located in Gothic Quarters, this museums preserves the collections assembled by it’s founder, including sculptures, plus amusing items like photographs, toys, keys, pipes, and clocks.

Egyptian Museum

With over 20,000 square meters, here you can explore one of the world’s most ancient civilizations, back to the mystical time of grand pharaohs, mummies and jewels.

Gaudí House Museum
Of course, it’s impossible not to mention Gaudí, one of the greatest and most well known names in Spanish culture. Walk down any corner of the city and you will see his artistic influence spread everywhere, from lampposts, to buildings, to floor tiles, to cathedrals… Come here to where the famous architect and designer called home, and for an intimate glance into his life and works.

Best Museums in Barcelona - Gaudí's Home

Have you been to any of the above museums before? Which do you personally think are the best museums in Barcelona? Let us know!

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Is it Worth Visiting Barcelona in Winter?

Natàlia Gibernau

A getaway to Barcelona in winter could be the answer to your January blues! If you’re thinking of visiting Barcelona in winter but you’re not sure if it would be worth it – perhaps you’re wondering if it will be too cold, or if there will be things going on – we’ve got you covered.

We’ve put together this short guide to Barcelona in Winter with a range of plans for all tastes, so you don’t miss out on this beautiful city during the colder months of the year!

Barcelona in winter
Barcelona in winter

Mild temperatures in Barcelona in winter

Although it might not be sunbathing weather, you can still expect average temperatures of 15 degrees during the day and lows of 6–8 degrees at night. These mild winters attract tourists looking for a cheaper break and comfortable temperatures to explore the city.

We’d recommend packing layers so you can wrap up during cold spells and enjoy the warmth of the afternoon on a terrace with a coffee or beer.

Enjoy Barcelona in winter without the crowds

Another advantage to Barcelona in winter is that you can explore the city and its main attractions without the long queues of the peak seasons. Ever wanted to take a selfie in front of the Sagrada Família without crowds in the background? Now’s your chance!

We also recommend enjoying Barcelona’s most popular neighborhoods – el Born and Gòtic – by taking a stroll with the streets almost to yourself!

Sales season

A trip to Barcelona during January is the perfect time to hit the post-Christmas sales. Head to the shopping areas of Portal de l’Àngel, with big high street names such as Zara, Mango and Pull & Bear. There’s also Passeig de Gràcia where the majority of luxury names can be found. We’re sure you’ll find more than a bargain or two!

If it’s a bit chilly outside, we also recommend visiting the city’s biggest shopping centres: l’Illa Diagonal and La Maquinista, filled with shops and restaurant options out of the winter cold.

Visit the museums

Another way to enjoy Barcelona during the cooler months is to explore its many museums. Despite the winter temperatures normally being mild, there is the odd cool day where you’ll want to keep warm inside. So why not explore the MACBA – the city’s eclectic museum of modern art, or the CCCB contemporary culture centre – with thought-provoking talks, debates and exhibitions on the latest technological advances, culture, innovation and more.

There’s also the stunning MNAC – the city’s Museum of Catalan Art. Steeped in history, this hub of culture is perfect for those who want to learn more about the art of the region and enjoy the stunning views over Plaça Espanya.

Veganuary in Barcelona in winter

If you’ve decided to give up meat or animal products after Christmas and start the New Year with a health kick, Barcelona has a plethora of vegan restaurants with tasty non-meat alternatives.

Check out our list of Barcelona’s top veggie restaurants with vegan and vegetarian options to care for your body inside and out this winter.

The Palau de la Música

One of the most magical places on a chilly winter’s day is the modernist emblem that is the Palau de la Música Catalana. This concert hall’s programme is packed with live performances, classical concerts and contemporary musicians.

Check out the programme for this winter here to find something for everyone.

Festival Llum BCN

The Festival Llum BCN brings light to Barcelona’s Poble Nou district. From February 4–6, you can visit a myriad of outdoor light and music installations by established and upcoming artists. The event is one of the most-awaited completely free plans in the city, and is a must-see.

We recommend you wrap up warm and take your camera. Find more information about this ground-breaking light festival here.

The Carnaval de Sitges

A mere 40 minutes from Barcelona by train, Sitges is the perfect place to spend the day. This picturesque town is known for its undeniable charm, winding streets and beautiful seafront promenade. But what’s more, in winter it hosts its very own carnival – which has been running for more than 100 years.

This year the Carnaval de Sitges will take place from 16 February to 22 February. Visitors can expect grand parades, colourful costumes and parties well into the night. We hope to see you there!

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The 8 most traditional bars in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Let’s visit the most traditional bars in Barcelona!

If you’re looking to really get to know Barcelona during your stay, where better place to do so than in its oldest and most typical bars. Before becoming the cosmopolitan melting pot it is today, Barcelona was littered with simple bars serving home-cooked food and local spirits.

Many of these spots still stand to this day, and despite their often dark-looking interior, you’ll soon discover they are warm and welcoming.  From classic bodegas to traditional watering holes, we’ve hand picked selection of the best traditional bars in Barcelona that have withstood the test of time. 

Bodega Pàdua 

To the north of the city, this bar has been standing since 1949 and is well known among locals. If you don’t mind taking a detour, this typical bodega promises the best Catalan dishes at a very affordable price.  Pull up a wooden chair, take in the strange and wonderful decoration and order a glass of homemade vermouth.

Traditional bars in barcelona - Bodega Padua
Traditional Bars in Barcelona – Bodega Pàdua

Quimet & Quimet

Just a short walk from Plaça Espanya, this family-run bar exudes tradition. With space for less than 30 patrons, make sure you get there early to grab a spot at the bar. With a huge selection of wine, conservas (conserved tinned food) and montaditos (small sandwiches), you’ll be spoilt for choice.

traditional bars in barcelona - Quimet quimet
Traditional Bars in Barcelona – Quimet Quimet

Els 4 Gats

Perhaps the most famous of Barcelona’s traditional bars, Els 4 Gats (The Four Cats) was frequented by Hemingway, Dalí and Picasso (who even designed the menu). The first building by architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch (who also designed Casa Amatller and Casa de les Punxes), it is said to take inspiration from Paris’ le Chat Noir. Enjoy the daily set menu or drop in for a coffee or a beer. You won’t be disappointed. 

Els 4 gats - restaurants in barcelona
Traditional Bars in Barcelona – Els 4 Gats

Bodega La Puntual 

Located in the heart of El Born, this spacious bodega finds the perfect balance between traditional Catalan tapas and that contemporary touch. Despite being a little on the expensive side, the quality of its dishes makes up for it. You’re sure to love the patatas bravas and the octopus!

Traditional bars in Barcelona - Els 4 Gats
Traditional Bars in Barcelona – Bodega La Puntual

El Xampanyet

Right next door to La Puntual is most possibly Born’s most famous bar: El Xampanyet. Known for its sparkling wine and tapas and given its proximity to the Picasso museum, it’s often packed with tourists and locals alike. Grab a stool at the bar to order a drink and few tapas, or join the queue for a table to order from the menu. 

Traditional Bars in Barcelona - El Xampanyet
Traditional Bars in Barcelona – El Xampanyet

La Bodega d’en Rafel

Tucked away in the charming neighbourhood of Sant Antoni, not far from the Sant Antoni market, you’ll find this simple, life-long bodega. Here you’re sure to get great service and great food, including fried anchovies, padrón peppers and snails. If you’re looking for a buzzing, local atmosphere, drop by during the weekend at lunchtime – just don’t expect to get a seat!

Traditional bars in barcelona - La bodega d'en Rafel
Traditional Bars in Barcelona – La Bodega d’en Rafel

Bodega Electricitat 

Right by La Barceloneta Market, this no-frills bar stands out thanks to its curious name and huge red sign. Called the “electricity” bar as it is located in the building that used to supply electricity to the neighbourhood, its marble tables and barrels of wine really make this a unique place to refuel.

Bodegas in Barcelona - Bodega Electricitat
Traditional Bars in Barcelona – Bodega Electricitat

Bodega Lo Pinyol

Found in Gràcia, not too far from Passeig de Gràcia, Lo Pinyol is a curious bodega with three different spaces. With a selection of local wines and pinchos, and even shelves stacked with books to exchange, this bodega’s tranquil atmosphere and low lighting make it perfect for romantic evenings or catching up with friends.

Bodgas in Barcelona - Bodega Lo Pinyol
Traditional Bars in Barcelona – Bodega Lo Pinyol

If the walls of these bars could talk, they would be sure to tell many a story from over the hundreds of years their doors have been open.  Take in their history as you enjoy local atmosphere, fantastic tapas and a selection of traditional drinks. 


La Roca Village shopping day trip from Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

La Roca Village is a shopping concept operated by multi-national luxury retail group, Chic, who boast 11 such sites at cities like London, Paris, Munich, Shanghai, as well as several in Spain.  More of a Spanish architecture styled village than a shopping mall, La Roca Village is treasure trove of more than 130 outlets by top brands such as Moncler, Michael Kors, Armani, Boss, Gucci, Hackett, Jimmy Choo or Versace, all brimming with luxury articles available at low prices, sometimes saving up to 60% off high street prices.

Located in the region of El Vallès Oriental on the outskirts of Granollers – a large industrial town just outside of Barcelona where the famous Montmeló Formula One track is – La Roca Village offers a great day out for young couples, groups, singles or families.  It is a tourist destination in its own right due to the stunning design and innovative experience.

La Roca Village

It’s open seven days a week, 10am till 9pm, but normally closed for holidays such as Christmas Day, King’s Day… check their website before planning your day trip.  Private shopping services include an all-store baggage-guarding scheme and even a personal adviser service for complete makeovers.  There are more additional activities such as a gift card services.

There are plenty of fine eating establishments scattered around the shopping village with food for every taste with a beautiful play area for younger ones at its centre.  So how do you get there?

How to get to La Roca Village by Car

La Roca is easily accessible from the “Autopista del Mediterráneo” or AP7.  This motorway stretches all the way from the Spanish/French border in the North connecting through to Valencia and Vera in the southern part of the peninsula. Leave the AP7 Motorway at Exit 12A (Cardedeu) and follow the signs for Centre Comercial (GPS Lat. 41.610694, Long. 2.343342).  Prices for small to medium car rentals from leading companies such as Europcar, for example, start from 29 euro per day.

How to get to La Roca Village by train

Very regular services from City’s main rail station Sants connecting to Granollers, the stop near the shopping village, every 30 minutes.  From there, regular bus services or taxis will help you complete your trip with a 5-minute journey to the shopping complex.  It’s a well-trodden path to La Roca, so this is an easy option basically door-to-door.

City Centre Coach

Option 1

The most direct way is by the Shopping Express shuttle bus – operated by La Roca themselves and pre-booking is advised due to limited seat numbers.  Return trips cost €20 each for adults, children 3-12 at €10 and children under 3 travel for free Passeig de Gràcia, 6. Usually by booking online, there are also plenty of discount opportunities in the shops, cafeterias and restaurants on offer.

Option 2

Sagales, a local coach service, also operates a direct route and has extra stops at the Mango Outlet and Nike Factory Store.  Children under 4 travel for free and adult returns are €20 at the departure point on Carrer Casp, 34.  Again, pre-booking is advised and will also earn you some further discount on your travel ticket costs.
If shopping is your thing, then Barcelona is definitely your place.  Find your ‘base camp’ from our selection of fine rental apartments throughout the city, and shop till you drop!

And remember, If you are planning to visit Barcelona, We’ve got what you need! Long term and short term apartment rentals in Barcelona: Here at BizFlats, we are proud to offer you quality apartments located across Barcelona city: www.bizflats.com

Also check here other interesting day trip guides:

5 Medieval villages in the Empordà 
Day Trip to Montserrat
Day Trip to Dalí Museum from Barcelona
La Roca Village shopping day trip from Barcelona

Everything you need to know about Three Kings Day 2024 in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Three Kings Day 2024 is almost here, and soon the streets of Barcelona will come alive with music, colour and of course, the biggest parade on the calendar – this year with a new route!

We’ve put together this article to bring you the best that Three Kings Day 2024 in Barcelona has to offer, to make sure you don’t miss a thing. So be sure to keep this short guide handy when you going to see the arrival of the Three Wise Men in Barcelona.

Three Kings Day 2024

When is Three Kings Day 2024 in Barcelona?

Three Kings Day is one of the most celebrated holidays throughout Spain and takes place on 6th January every year. This date is also known as the Epiphany of Twelfth Night. It’s common for families to get together and for children to open the gifts brought to them by the ‘Reis Mags’.

As is custom, the Three Kings, or Three Wise Men – Melcior, Gaspar and Baltasar –arrive in Barcelona the day before the Epiphany, on 5 January 2024, after a long, tiring journey from the East.

After docking at the Moll de la Fusta, they will arrive in Portal de la Pau at 4pm, where the mayor of Barcelona will welcome them. She will offer the Three Kings bread and salt as a sign of hospitality, before giving them the keys to the city. It is thanks to these keys that they’ll be able to deliver their gifts to all the children in Barcelona.

The Three Kings Day 2024 Parade

Then, from 6pm onwards, the Three Kings and their entourage will begin the Three Kings Parade 2024, known as the Cavalcada del Reis Mags in Catalan.

This year due to construction work taking place on Via Laietana, the parade will take a different route, passing by Passeig de Colom. The colourful procession will then pass by Avinguda del Paral.lel, Ronda Sant Pau and Carrer Sepúlveda, before ending at the Montjuïc Magic Fountain around 9pm.

The following times are given as a guideline, but you can check out the complete route here.

6.00 pm – Marquès de l’Argentera

6.15 pm – Passeig Colom

7.1o pm – Avinguda Paral.lel

7:30 pm – Ronda Sant Pau

7:45 pm – Mercat de Sant Antoni

8:30 pm – Sepúlveda

8:45 pm – Plaça Espanya

9:15 pm – Avinguda Reina Maria Cristina

Expect to see fantastical floats belonging to the Three Wise Men themselves, plus themed floats decorated with toys, and with themes of dreams and sleep, and coal.

Three Kings Parade Barcelona

Sweet treats this Three Kings Day 2024

You will be delighted to hear that after two years of restrictions, this year the floats have been given permission to share sweets and candy galore with the crowds.

So get ready to catch and collect the sweets tossed into the crowds for children and adults.

Also don’t forget to get your Roscó de Reis – this round brioche-like pastry filled with cream and topped with candy is typically eaten on 6 January. Miniature figurines are hidden inside the cake, each with their own special meaning. Get the king and this may be your lucky year. However if it’s the bean you find inside your piece of roscó, you’ll have to pay for the dessert!

Tips for the Three Kings Day 2024

Although we’ve had a very mild Christmas in Barcelona with record temperatures of 22 degrees, we recommend wrapping up when going to see the cabalgata as temperatures do drop at night in the city. Gloves, a hat and scarf will certainly come in handy!

If you’re going to see the parade with young children, we recommend always holding their hands – above all in the most crowded, popular spots. Be sure to keep an eye on them when they are collecting sweets!

And remember, at all times stay behind the safety rails and don’t climb onto or over the rails into the road where the floats are to collect sweets. Visitors are also prohibited from crossing the streets during the parade for safety reasons.

Bank holiday for the Three Kings Day 2024 in Barcelona

The bank holiday for the Three Kings Day 2024 will be 6 January. All shops and businesses will be closed. We recommend checking with local bars and restaurants before visiting.

We wish you all the best this Christmas in Barcelona!

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