Things to Do In Barcelona

The finest things to do in Barcelona and Catalonia, all year round, with an emphasis on entertainment, by the local experts on the bizFlats team, with Jaume’s special recommendations

Roman Ruins in Barcelona – 8 Roman Spots you Can’t Miss

Natàlia Gibernau

Did you know that you can find Roman ruins in Barcelona? Barcelona may be a bustling and modern city these days, often characterised by the amazing Art Nouveau architecture of the early 1900’s. However, when you look a little deeper, Barcelona also has a rich ancient history; once you know where to look you will start discovering it throughout the ancient streets of the old town. 

The city of Barcelona, called Barcino by the Romans, was founded by the Roman empire at the end of the 1st Century and began to grow from there. The colony had around 1000 inhabitants and was bound by a defensive wall. Below is a list of the eight Roman spots in the city that you can’t miss, for an amazing historical tour of this ancient city.

Roman Ruins in Barcelona
Roman Ruins in Barcelona – Barcino – Roman Barcelona

Museu d’Història de Barcelona (MUHBA)

Open since 1943, the Museu d’Història de Barcelona is a great and interactive way to explore the ancient Roman ruins in Barcelona. Spread throughout the city, most of the major historical points of interest are part of this wondrous and free open-air museum.

Below Plaça del Rei square, you will find 4000 m2 of archaeological remains, where you can walk along the ancient Roman streets. Here you also can expect to see intriguing objects found during archeological digs, such as ancient Roman busts and Roman inscribed ceramics, giving you a real taste of what life may have been like back then.

Plaça del Rei, 7-9

Roman ruins in barcelona - plaça del rei

MUHBA Temple d’August

Inside a small medieval courtyard, you will be able to find the remains of what was once the Temple d’August; four upright pillars. This was the main temple of the Roman colony, and has been dated back to the 1st Century BC, as a place of worship for the Roman Empire. This building stood at the centre of the Forum and looked down on the city due to its placement on a small podium, at the top of what was formally a small hill known as Mons Taber.

Carrer Paradís, 10

Muhba temple d'august - Roman tour in barcelona

Plaça de Sant Jaume

The centre of all activity, Placa de Sant Jaume used to be the Roman Forum, an arcaded square that was surrounded by the city’s main buildings. Forming a cross, the forum was the axis between two streets of importance, the “cardus maximus” and “decomanus maximus”. The square was also the site of a market, where goods from all over the Mediterranean were bought and sold. 

Plaça sant Jaume - Roman Ruins in Barcelona

Plaça Nova

This is the former site of one of Barcelona’s gates and so can be a good look at the ancient remains of the historic Roman city wall and aqueduct. The two towers that can be seen here are clear signs of the way carriages and pedestrians entered in and out of the city.

Casa de l’Ardiaca

Whilst this site doesn’t showcase the original, it’s possible to see a modern replica of one of the city’s aqueducts, which can give you a good idea of how the city used to function. This spot also marked the start of one of the main Roman roads. 

Carrer de Santa Llúcia, 1

Casa de l'Ardiaca - Barcelona roman ruins

Plaça Vila de Madrid and Via Sepulcral Romana

Situated outside of the city’s walled precinct, here you will find 70 tombs from the city’s ancient necropolis, revealing just how Roman’s built their cemeteries. You can walk above these tombs, along Via Sepulcral Romana, to get the best view of these ancient relics.

ROMAN RUINS IN BARCELONA - ROMAN TOUR IN BARCELONA - VIA SEPULCRAL ROMANA

Plaça Ramon Berenguer

More amazing Roman ruins in Barcelona! Here, among the epic background of the Gothic chapel, you will be able to find a section of ancient Roman wall, dating back to the early 4th century AD. Look closely and you will find that the wall was constructed of materials from other buildings, as a reinforcement for the original wall built in the 1st Century BC.

ROMAN TOUR BARCELONA - ROMAN WALL IN PLAÇA RAMON BERENGUER

If you want a true exploration of the old Roman city of Barcino, head to the Museu d’Arqueologia de Catalunya where you will be able to find over a million original pieces that take you on a journey through the history of Barcelona, including the establishment of the Roman Empire. This includes collections of items from the Roman times. 

Passeig de Santa Madrona, 39

Museu d’Arqueologia de Catalunya - ROMAN TOUR IN BARCELONA

Once you start walking around Barcelona, you will be able to find these points and get lost in your exploration of the ancient history of the city. 

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7 fun things to do in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

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

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

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

Fun things to do in Barcelona
Fun things tot do in Barcelona – Play padel in Barcelona

1. Wine tasting at one of Barcelona’s wineries

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

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

2. Play padel in Barcelona

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

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

3.  Play lasertag in Barcelona

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

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

4. Paddle boarding in Barcelona

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Get creative at a drink and draw session

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

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

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

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

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6 ways to enjoy the culture of Barcelona from your home

Natàlia Gibernau

Enjoy the culture of Barcelona from your home: Although life as we know it has changed these past two weeks, you don’t have to forgo the wonderful cultural proposals that Barcelona has on offer.

From virtual museum visits, talks, shows, concerts and more, we’ve put together this list that will lift your spirits and ensure Barcelona’s cultural soul stays strong during this time.

So, this evening instead of watching another Netflix series, why not gather together with your family or housemates, and check out some of the Catalan’s capitals brilliant cultural experiences from the comfort of your sofa. 

Virtual visits to museums

Despite the city’s museums having closed their doors during this period of confinement, you can still explore their corners with these virtual visits. From the Picasso Museum, the Barcelona Museum of Design, the Catalonia National Museum, the Museum of Modern Art and much more, pick your favourite and get lost in their diverse collections. Here you’ll find a list we’ve put together with links to access the virtual visits.

Virtual visits to museums - Culture of Barcelona
Virtual visits to museums – Culture of Barcelona

Barcelona e-library

The libraries of Barcelona have opened their shelves to the public during this extraordinary time to share their collections online. There are more than 100,000 titles available in Catalan, Spanish, English, French and German that you can lend virtually. Enjoy e-books, magazines, films, audiobook, documentaries and much more with your Catalan library card. Find out more here.

Barcelona Elibrary - Culture of Barcelona
Barcelona Elibrary – Culture of Barcelona

VIDA Festival live

If you’re like us, you’re already thinking about those long summer nights and outdoor festivals. We recommend checking out the “Vida at Home” cycle of concerts. The festival – which is scheduled to be held in Vilanova i la Geltrú this July – will be streaming live performances every day this week at 19h on their Instagram page. Enjoy acts from Ferran Palau, Enric Montefusco, The New Raemon, Núria Graham, and many more. 

Vida Festival Live - Culture of Barcelona
Vida Festival Live – Culture of Barcelona

Virtual Gaudí

If you were planning a trip to Barcelona and are craving the city’s masterpieces, here we have your Gaudí pick me up. Check out these virtual visits of La Pedrera and Casa Battló. These 360º tours are almost as good as the real thing! Get up and close to two of Gaudí’s masterpieces and discover the history of modernism in Barcelona from your home.

Virtual Gaudí

Opera in your living room

The Liceu theatre has launched a special initiative to bring its latest opera extravaganzas straight to your living room. Normally you have to get dressed up to go to the opera, but not any more! Don your favourite pyjamas and get ready for an evening of Madam Butterfly, Aida, Normaor Rigoletto. All you need to do is register at this link and enter the code ‘OperaEnCasa’ (OperaAtHome).

Opera in your living room
Opera in your living room

Science, art and technology

The Open University of Catalonia and the libraries of Barcelona have come together to offer a series of five videos that explore the relationship between art, science and technology. Put together by the OUC professor, Pau Alsina, this conference raises questions that have been explored throughout history to help us to understand more about the world around us and how we, as humans, create within it. Discover the conference here.

Open university of Catalonia

Find more exciting ways to spend your time at home with this programmeof cultural initiatives you can enjoy from home, put together by Barcelona City Council’s Institute of Culture.

Let us know, how have you been spending your time at home? 

6 great reasons to visit the neighbourhood of Gràcia

Natàlia 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 19thcentury 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 19th-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.

Neighbourhood of Gràcia - Casa Vicens

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?

8 Best viewpoints in Barcelona

Natàlia 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.

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador d'Horta - Viewpoint Barcelona
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador d’Horta

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 Colom - Barcelona viewpoints
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador de Colom

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.

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador de Sarrià
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador de Sarrià

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. 

best viewpoints in barcelona - Mirador Torre de Collserola
Best viewpoints in Barcelona – Mirador Torre de Collserola

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. 

New Year’s Eve Parties in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Are you planning on spending the New Year in Barcelona and looking for a special way to ring in the next year? Then look no further; we’ve compiled a list of the best parties for you to celebrate the night away with your partner, friends or family.

For locals, the celebration starts at home with a family meal and the traditional eating of 12 grapes at midnight, before hitting the town. However, we’ve selected a range of events starting before and after midnight at restaurants, bars and clubs so you can find the best event for you.

So what are you waiting for, start planning a New Year you’ll never forget in the centre Barcelona!

New Year’s Eve Parties in Barcelona

New Year’s Eve Parties in Barcelona

Fireworks: Plaça Espanya, Av. María Cristina

Unlike other cosmopolitan cities, it was only in 2013 that the tradition of an official outdoor New Year’s event began in Barcelona. Now locals and visitors alike can wrap up and get together to be awed by a fantastic performance of fireworks and music! This family-friendly celebration is free and starts at 9.30 pm. 

Sutton: C/ Tuset, 13

Looking to spend the New Year in style? Then we have the place for you! With tickets starting from €50 (including 3 drinks) and VIP tables starting from €1,000, this New Year’s Eve the exclusive nightclub venue plays host to DJs and artists such as Juanpa Claret, Gerard Roig and Xavi Ques. 

Bling Bling: C/ Tuset, 8–10

One of the city’s most exclusive nightclubs offers you an unforgettable evening starting at 1 am. With a selection of DJs, the option of VIP tables and the best music, ring in the bells with your loved ones at home then get the party started. We’re sure you’ll dance the night away.

Gatsby: C/ Tuset, 19

This themed restaurant come nightclub will take you back to the 1920s. Enjoy an exquisite menu of local and international dishes plus nightlong entertainment with singers, dancers and much more. After dinner, grab a cocktail and hit the dance floor. This luxury space won’t disappoint!

Sala Apolo: C/ Nou de la Rambla, 107

From 01:00 to 05:30 you’ll have access to two exclusive events held at one of Barcelona’s most renowned nightclubs, with over 75 years of clubbing tradition. In the main room, enjoy Nitsa live electronic beats from Shelby Grey, DJ Kosmos and more. In room 2 or “La 2” discover Astin, Nitsa’s house and disco alternative. Early Bird tickets are only €25 – what are you waiting for!

Razzmatazz: C/ dels Almogàvers, 122

With five different rooms, Razzmatazz really does have something for everyone. Choose from two ticket types, with entry either from 22:30 or after midnight, including two drinks and a special edition T-shirt – plus grapes, party favours and cava if you choose to see in the New Year there. Tickets cost €54.50 or €44.50 respectively.

Pacha: Passeig Marítim Barceloneta, 38

Head to the Barcelona seafront to party the night away at Pacha, with a selection of Europe’s most famous DJs. As well as being a nightclub, the Pacha restaurant also offers a dinner right by the sea and includes entry to the club to the exclusive New Year party.

Poble Espanyol
Av. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13

Starting at 10.30 pm, discover a traditional Spanish street party in the centre of Barcelona at the Poble Espanyol. A standard ticket costing €40 (until December 26) will grant you access to three different outdoor spaces. Grab a VIP table with your friends and loved ones starting from €120. Tickets include four drinks, grapes and party favours.

Catwalk
Carrer de Ramon Trias Fargas, 2–4

Catwalk boasts the best of R&B and hip-hop music in an exclusive space located on the seafront. With a range of tickets starting from €30 right up to €3,500, enjoy three rooms, neon lights and an outdoor terrace.

Wherever you choose to celebrate the end of the year, we hope you have a blast!

12 Top Festes Majors in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Have you ever been in Festes Majors in Barcelona? In this article we list the approximate dates of each festa major and how they are usually celebrated. (This year due to the Covid pandemic, each neighborhood proposes both virtual and in person activities. We recommend checking each official programme with the corresponding organisers).

Festes Majors in Barcelona

Our favorite Festes Majors in Barcelona

Festa Major de Sant Antoni

Dates: 17–26 January

2019 was this festival’s debut year, so we’re sure its second year will be an event not to be missed. Enjoy a range of activities centred around the neighbourhood’s recently renovated market.

Festes de Santa Eulàlia

Dates: 7–12 February

Coinciding with the day of former patron saint of Barcelona (12 February), expect to see the centre of Barcelona come alive with castellers (human towers) and an array of parades in her honour. Castellers is something that all the festes majors have in common and you will love it. It’s an amazing traditional experience!

Festa Major de la Sagrada Família

Dates: April–May

Experience this renowned Gaudí masterpiece with over a week of various events and activities suitable for all ages. 

Festa Major del Casc Antic

Dates: June

No one can deny that Barcelona’s old quarter has a unique charm – so why not discover its more traditional side. Head to Sant Pere and Santa Caterina i la Ribera to see castellers, parades of giant puppets and the modest sardanes dance.

Festa Major del Raval

Dates: June

In honour of the neighbourhood’s patron saint, this bright and colourful festival in the centre of Barcelona stands out thanks to its castellers and artisans selling local craft products.

Festa Major del Poble-sec

Dates: July

The festival of Poble-sec will take you on a journey through its most emblematic, local locations, from the Semblador square and the El Molino theatre. Be sure not to miss its blazing correfoc fire run.

Festa Major de Gràcia

Dates: 15–22August

Perhaps the most eagerly awaited of all the festes majors of Barcelona, discover how the streets of Gràcia are transformed by the local residents with decorations of every colour.

Festa Major de Sants

Dates: August–September

From concerts, decorations and correfocs, the Festa Major de Sants transforms this residential and professional district for a week of celebrations in honour of patron saint Bartholomew. 

Festa Major de Poblenou

Dates: 11–20 September 2020

One of the largest of the festivals with around 500 activities, this event is not to be missed. Discover the magnificent cercavila parade, sign up to run the 5 or 10 km race or take part in some of the artistic workshops that run alongside this celebration.

Festa Major de la Rambla

Dates: September

This special celebration of one of Barcelona’s most renowned landmarks sees the façades of its buildings decorated with fresh flowers. What’s more, museums in the area are free during these celebratory dates.

Festes de la Mercè

Dates: 18–24 September

In honour of the patron saint of Barcelona, the entire city comes together to celebrate with popular culture, live music, castellers, correfocs and much more. Les Festes de La Mercè is the main and biggest Festa Major in the city. There’s something for everyone at a range of locations throughout the city centre.

Festa Major de la Barceloneta

Dates: September

In this beachside festival that celebrates the best of one of Barcelona’s most traditional neighbourhoods. We recommend catching a havaneres concert (colonial songs sung by local groups) on the beach.

Is the festa major of your favourite neighbourhood missing? Don’t worry; very soon the entire list of festes majors in Barcelona will be published here, where you will also be able to check their exact locations on the map. 

We hope to see you there!

A Guide to Christmas Concerts in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

It’s time to enojoy the Christmas concerts in Barcelona! The nights are drawing in earlier, the mornings are chillier and soon lights of every colour will illuminate the streets of Barcelona. 

This can only mean one thing! Christmas is almost upon us.  And if you’re spending Christmas in Barcelona this year, we can recommend a different plan to ensure you make the most of time with your loved ones. Amidst the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping and preparing for the many family gatherings and meals, take some time out to enjoy a unique musical experiences.

christmas concerts in barcelona
Christmas Concerts in Barcelona

We’ve compiled this short guide to concerts during the festive season for you to sit back and be regaled by local choirs and orchestras. What better way to get in the festive mood!

Christmas concerts in Barcelona

Christmas on Broadway

Where: L’Auditori

When: Friday 20 and Saturday, 21 December 2019

Join the Symphonic Orchestra of Barcelona on a journey through the musicals of Broadway in a fantastic gala show to kick off the festive season in style. With music from works by Rodgers and Hammerstein (2015), Lloyd Webber (2017) and Bernstein (2018), there’s something for everyone.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Where: Gran Teatre del Liceu

When: Saturday, 21 and Sunday, 22 December 2019

Enjoy this Christmas classic surrounded by loved ones. Music by Albert Guinovart together with Symphony Orchestra of the Gran Teatre del Liceu and the Amics de la Unió children’s choir.

Star Wars & OCM: Original Soundtracks by John Williams

Where: El Palau de la Música Catalana

When: Thursday, 19 and Saturday, 21 December 2019

Relive some of John William’s most emblematic soundtracks from the big screen including Star Wars, E.T., Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List. We’re sure that you’ll laugh, cry and be entertained by the favourites of this renowned and prize-winning composer.

Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci

Where: Gran Teatre del Liceu

When: Various dates from 5–22 December 2019

This December enjoy a unique double opera session of two acclaimed Royal Opera House productions. These two Italian classics set in the 1950s will be performed side by side in what is sure to be an epic evening of emblematic opera.

The Magic World of Hans Zimmer

Where: L’Auditori

When: Wednesday, 25 December 2019

What better way to spend the most magical day of the year than enjoying music from some of the most epic films of the century. From The Lion King, Gladiator, Pearl Harbour, Pirates of the Caribbean and many more, bring this special day to a close surrounded by your loved ones.

St. Stephen’s Choral Concert: Christmas at the Palau

Where: El Palau de la Música Catalana

When: Thursday, 26 December 2019

Take part in this festive tradition of Catalonia with this unique concert held every St. Stephen’s Day. The charming melodies of the Orfeó Català and a combination of choirs are sure to bring the whole family together in an enchanting venue.

If you’re spending Christmas season in Barcelona, we’re sure one of these magical Christmas concerts in Barcelona will make for an unforgettable experience with your loved ones.

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