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

Things to do in Barcelona in December 

Natàlia Gibernau

Which are the best things to do in Barcelona in December?  The Christmas agenda is jam-packed with fun and interesting things to do and see.  Below we select a few things to do you can’t miss:

Things to do in Barcelona in December: Christmas Concerts

As you’d expect, Barcelona has many open-air concerts during the festive season. Plaça del Rei hosts some of the best ones on a medieval square.  It is situated in the Gothic Quarter and you will also find the Palau Reial (Royal Palace), Tinell Salo, the Chapel of St. Agatha and the Torre del Rey Martí.  Also most of the city’s churches have things to do in December such as traditional religious events and classical music recitals. We recommend the St. Stephen’s Day Christmas concert at the magnificent Palau de la Música concert hall in Barcelona. A beloved annual Christmas event in Barcelona by The Orfeó Català choir and other choirs.

Things to do in Barcelona in December 

If architecture and music is your thing during your stay, then you must include this a visit to El Palau de la Música.  Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, El Palau Música Catalana is styled in a similar theme to that of Gaudí’s work, but more functional in contrast to many other buildings built in the modernism style throughout the city.  The design of the Palau is typical of Catalan modernism.

Visit the most important Christmas Markets in Barcelona

Barcelona organizes many traditional and not-so tradition Christmas Markets (Mercats de Nadal).  They’re excellent places to get some great Catalan traditional gifts, Christmas themed decorations and artisan food products.  They are one of the most important things to do in Barcelona in December and are open throughout the holiday period.  We recommend the oldest market, Fira de Santa Llúcia at Barcelona Cathedral or the largest one, Fira de Reis a la Gran Vía, which run along this main road between its junctions with Carrer Calabria and Carrer Comte Urgell.  For more information read our article about the oldest Christmas Markets in Barcelona

Things to do in Barcelona in December 

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

If you are lucky enough to be visiting during the city’s busy New Year Celebrations, then your things to do in Barcelona in December list must include a visit to Plaça Espanya to fully experience the Catalan New Year traditions.  Get there early as the crowds will be massive as they wait for midnight to come and see in the New Year with grapes and cava – when the midnight bells toll you must eat a grape with every dong, and simultaneously take a sip of cava, 12 times in total, to ensure you have a lucky and prosperous 2018.  There will also be the best fireworks show the city has to offer.

New year's Eve in Barcelona - Plaça Espanya

Christmas Shopping

If you are here in the search for the perfect gift for loved ones, then a visit to one of Barcelona’s shopping hotspots has to be among the things to do in Barcelona in December.  We recommend the luxury shops all along the Passeig de Gràcia for top-end items.  If you have time, there is the famous La Roca Shopping Village located just outside the visit for more top brands and luxury gifts at factory outlet prices.  Plaça de Catalunya is also a great place to discover traditional Catalan Christmas themes and high street retail brands situated around the city’s largest square. 

Christmas Shopping in Barcelona

Barcelona Michelin Star Tapas Walking Tour

Things to do in Barcelona in December has to include Tapas, and what better way to experience the best tapas with Barcelona’s Michelin Star Tapas Experience.  Your guide will take you to two very different restaurants, which are owned by Michelin-starred chefs and that represent different regions of Spain to try various tapas dishes and wines.  The tour last for three hours and whilst also getting to sample some the best tapas in the city, the guide will also share some other culinary places of interest to discover during your stay.

So If you are choosing Barcelona as your Christmas destination this year, then there is no better option for your stay than renting one of our cozy apartments.  Please see our selection here and book your accommodation with us.

Street art in Barcelona - Jardí de les tres xemeneies

Street Art In Barcelona – Where to find the best Street Art spots in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Are you willing to find Street Art in Barcelona ? Barcelona is certainly famous for its contemporary arts, especially modern street art. It is prolific throughout the city whether it’s illegal graffiti or commissioned pieces by some of the city’s famous artists like El Pez, who now tours the world painting large murals in every continent.

It’s not just spray-paint art though.  Today’s street art uses anything and everything to display a message or communicate a feeling.  The most common forms of Barcelona’s Street Art are just as likely to be mosaics or stencils and some even use recycled materials collected from the street’s refuse.

It changes every night too!  The best place to view some of the best and more historic street art pieces on your Barcelona trip are actually on shop shutters.  But they are normally only visible at night after the shops shut, or on a Sunday.  Below we have suggested some areas in the city where you will see major pieces of Barcelona’s Street Art work… maybe even in action!

Recommended spots to find street Art in Barcelona

Street Art in Barcelona: El Raval

If you take a trek through this district, Barcelona’s Street Art is everywhere.  A good place to start is the MACBA – the Barcelona Contemporary Museum of Modern Art – but no need to go inside, just scout around the surrounding area to see really fantastic pieces of work!  There are also a lot of older pieces as you move deeper into the Raval district.

Street art in Barcelona - Raval

Street Art in Barcelona: Jardins de les Tres Xemeneies

Easy to find, just head to the where you see the 3 big chimneys breaking the skyline on Avinguda del Paral-lel .  Art creation is actually encouraged here, so you are allowed to paint, so you should be able to see and talk with some of the artists as they paint.  Head further down Paral.lel where it meets Plaça de les Drassanes, you will find another public park space called Jardí Walter Benjamin.  Artists can paint legally here as well and there are always new and interesting murals on display.

Street art in Barcelona - Jardí de les tres xemeneies

Street Art in Barcleona: The Gothic & Born Quarters

Start at Carrer Ataulf (with Carrer Templars) and then head into Carrer Milans.  By just walking along these two streets alone, you could potentially take hours to see all the art within them.  There are also some old treasures by legendary Barcelona Street Artists El Pez, Kram & Bombzone.  The Born is nearby.  Just cross Via Laietana and head down to Carrer de l’Argenteria.  The art is not only on the street, visit some of the local galleries that exhibit and sell work by Barcelona’s street artists.

Stret art in Barcelona - el born

Street Art Walking Tour

There is even a world famous Barcelona Street art walking tour – the Barcelona Street Style Tour.  It has reviews by virtually every newspaper culture section on the planet.  We highly recommend it!  Also it’s free, but if you feel the tour gave good value, you can always donate when it ends.  You would expect to pay about €8-10 for any informative and enjoyable walking tour.  They even have an additional bicycle tour that takes you to Poble Nou, where some of the city’s largest murals are.

Barcelona’s Street Art brings many visitors and artists to the city every year.  To make your stay more enjoyable, why not see our selection of holiday rental apartments in the areas mentioned above to be right in the middle of all the action.

More recommended articles about art in Barcelona

La Mercè 2017, the main event on Barcelona’s festival agenda

Natàlia Gibernau

La Mercè 2017 is the main event on Barcelona’s festival agenda, uniting all of its neighbourhoods and serving as the city’s Festa Major.  This year it aims to extend further throughout the city by adding even more new venues and activities.

Every year, Barcelona invites a city from around the world to jointly celebrate the festival.  This year Icelandic capital Reykjavik has been invited to be this year’s special guest city and will be honoured throughout La Mercè.

Overall, it is a religious festival that has been celebrated since the Middle Ages and observes the holy feast day of Our Lady of Mercy.  It is the biggest weeklong festival in the city and an age-old tradition, but there are very up-to-date activity items as well, such as specialty markets, art displays and musical performances for example.

Gegants & Capgrossos – La Mercè 2017 

Catalunya has a great tradition for processions of giants or bigheads, which are tall, hollow structures with very large papier-mâché heads, each with a unique identity and character.  They are carried on top of people’s shoulders in a parade as they dance and run at the crowds.  Also, there are the Bestiari – which are figures of medieval, folkloric creatures.  This parade happens on the first day of the La Mercé celebrations.

Gegants Procession, September 22, Palau de la Virreina on La Rambla, 99, at 19:00h

The Correfoc – La Mercè 2017 
The famous fire run is always on September 24 – the actual saint’s day for La Mercé.  Performers dressed as devils and fiery dragons dance in a long procession through the city.  Hordes of “diables” hoist pitchforks, or forquilles, above their heads, with spinning fireworks attached that spray in all directions.  If you’re going to get a close-up photograph, then protective clothing is advised.  There is also an early fire run for children.

Correfoc (Adults), September 23, Via Laietana at 20:15h
Correfoc (Children) September 23, Via Laietana at 18:30h

Castellers – La Mercè 2017 

The Catalans are very good at building human structures. In fact he last few world records – 10 persons high – have been have been set in the region.  Participants, or Catsellers, climb on top of each other, interlocked into a delicate balancing act to get people to reach into the sky as far as possible.  The human tower is supported by a large number of people at the bottom, and then it’s a race to reach the highest point in strict formation before the structure breaks.

Human Towers, September 23, Plaça de Sant Jaume at 11:30h
Human Towers, September 23, Plaça de Sant Jaume at 12:30h

 

BAM
Barcelona Acció Musical has been running for over 20 years and hosts more contemporary rock and pop music concerts.  It runs in parallel to the main festival, and as Reykjavik is the partner city for this year’s La Mercé, then a contingent of its artists will perform, as well as national and internal artists.  Concerts usually take place at Plaza Real, Plaza Catalunya and at the MACBA, among many other intimate places and open-air venues around the city.

BAM, September 22-25, various venues http://lameva.barcelona.cat/bam/en

AMICS DE LES ARTS CANET ROCK. FOTO: DAVID BORRAT. 04-07-15. CANET DE MAR. DIARI ARA

Piromusical – La Mercè 2017 
This is a critically acclaimed, professional fireworks display that takes place on the last night of La Mercè 2017 on Avinguda reina Maria Cristina.  You need to arrive early for the big finale, as thousands of people gather to watch this spectacular show.

Check the official agenda for more firework displays and digital light mapping events throughout the festival, at http://lameva.barcelona.cat/merce/en.

Piromusical, September 25, Avinguda de Reina Maria Cristina (Plaça Espanya) at 22:00h

The La Mercè Festival is a great way to see Barcelona at its best.  Your stay could be much more convenient with your own apartment.  Check our website for an excellent selection of short-term holiday rentals so that your stay in the city is as comfortable as possible.

Check the official agenda for more firework displays and digital light mapping events throughout the festival, at http://lameva.barcelona.cat/merce/en.

Michelin starred restaurants in Catalonia: restaurants with one star

Natàlia Gibernau

Today it’s time to talk about the Michelin starred restaurants in Catalonia with one star.  Recently we published an article about Michelin starred restaurants in Barcelona with one star to be your definitive guide of all the gastronomical wonders in the city. But Barcelona doesn’t have all the glory, there are even more one-star Michelin restaurants surrounding the city in Catalonia’s beautiful villages and countryside.

Michelin starred restaurants in Catalonia

Els Casals

For a day or two away from the city, Els Casals is the perfect destination. It is located outside Sagàs, a picturesque village nestled in the Pre-Pyrenees valley. The country house hotel/restaurant is situated on lush farm land and sprawling gardens. Els Casals is down to earth fine dining – all the ingredients come from the farm itself, or from families nearby (Tatjé‘s family’s pigeon, boneless and roasted orange duck from Bessa’s family).

Els casals

Estany Clar

This gorgeous converted farmhouse is a scenic hour’s drive from Barcelona. The dining room is a romantic haven of stone walls and soft lighting. Their tasting menu samples a vast range of their culinary talents from Grandmother’s canneloni to sliced roast veal and foie, each garnished with a different herb.

Michelin starred restaurants in Catalonia Estany Clar

Fonda Sala

Venture an hour north of Barcelona to the foothills of the Pyrenees for a breath of fresh air. Fonda Sala has had its Michelin star for longer than most and its dining room reflects its timeless dedication to fine food and wine, free of any fads or pretension, but still at the forefront of innovative cuisine with dishes like sweet and sour wild rabbit.

Fonda Sala

L’Ò

To the north of Barcelona, not far from the Montserrat monastery you can find L’Ó, a modern hotel/restaurant nestled amongst the medieval houses and churches that mark the area. The town in which L’Ò is situated, Sant Fruitós de Bages, has its own monastery and the food at this restaurant is indeed worthy of the gods; slow-cooked baby goat shoulder with mushrooms and truffle, and oyster with ponzu sauce, apple and codium.

L’Ò2

Lluerna

Another restaurant worth venturing out of Barcelona for, Santa Coloma de Gramenet is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers the most affordable tasting menu (dinner Tuesday to Thursday and lunch Tuesday to Friday) at just 40€ per person. Dishes like solid mojito, Campari & orange stuffed olive and Mojito truffle signal a restaurant that is not afraid to experiment.

Lluerna

Can Jubany

In a converted farmhouse about an hour’s drive from Barcelona, Can Jubany offers a sumptuous choice of menus, from their own signature dishes (Catalan cured sausage ‘llonganissa’ and crispy pancetta), a gastronomic tour of Catalonia (pigeon rice with pork belly and sausage) and their sublime meal (Salad of red shrimps from Palamós with a thousand islands sauce ice cream).

Can Jubany - Michelin starred restaurants in Catalonia

Tresmacarrons

If you fancy a day on the coast, head to El Masnou, just past Badalona. It’s less than a 30 minute drive away and features seafood of the highest quality such as slow-cooked red tuna belly with potato cream and “allioli” of avocado, basil, spinach and sesame as well as Duck Royale with foie gras. It’s renowned for its vermut too, so be sure to start with the local aperitif or have a light lunch of burrata with pear and walnuts or steak tartar.

Tresmacarrons - Michelin starred restaurants in Catalonia

Just plan a daytrip away from Barcelona and taste the best of the rest from Michelin starred restaurants in Catalonia!

In addition to its history, architecture and famous sightseeing spots, Barcelona is an amazing city to try a range of Mediterranean and international cuisine. Check out the following restaurant guides in Barcelona. These guides and restaurants lists are packed with recommendations from our bizFlats team, so wherever you go, you are sure to enjoy an outstanding food experience!

Michelin starred restaurants in Barcelona: restaurants with one star

The Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Barcelona

The 8 Best Japanese Restaurants in Barcelona

Best tapas in Barcelona – Top 10 Tapas Restaurants in Barcelona

Make the Most of Your Vacation by Visiting 5 of the Best Restaurants in Barcelona, Spain

13 Barcelona Apps to enjoy the city

Natàlia Gibernau

These Barcelona Apps will give you all the guidance you need. There is no need to wander around the city with your nose buried in a guide book!

Barcelona Apps: Transport

  • Virtual Bus Touristic App

Plan where you want to hop off by taking a ride on the virtual-reality version of this iconic bus tour first.

Virtual Bus Turistic Barcelona Apps

  • TMB App

This easy-to-use Barcelona app allows you to plan your route using the city’s combined bus, metro, train and tram network. Simply put in your start and end points and it will give you a list of options, the time each will take and when your first connection is due.

Barcelona Apps_TMB.l1

  • MyTaxi App

Simply enter your destination and how you want to pay you’ll soon be sent a picture of the driver who is on their way to you.

Barcelona Apps My Taxi App

Barcelona Apps: Sightseeing

  • The official guide to Barcelona App

A traditional city guide on your phone. Includes all the information you need as a tourist in Barcelona.

Barcelona Apps Barcelona_Guia_Oficial.l1

  • Mapp4all App

This Barcelona app details the accessibility of famous sights and museums as well as the more day to day amenities such as banks, supermarkets and restaurants.

Barcelona Apps app-mapp4all-l1

  • iBarcelona – Smartour App

The ultimate Barcelona app for the smart phone generation. If you don’t know where to start, follow their recommended itinerary or see what local events are near your apartment.

Barcelona Apps Smartour_Barcelona.l1

  • GaleriesArt App

Find everything you need to know about the galleries in the Association of Art Galleries of Catalonia (GGAC), from exhibition dates and opening hours to information about featured artists. The geolocation capability helps you find galleries near your apartment.

Barcelona_Galeries_Art_l1

  • Joan Miró App

Scan the code next to the famous works to find out the story behind it. For an artistic spin on sightseeing, you can also walk a mile (or more!) in Miró‘s shoes and take a look at his former residences around Barcelona.

Barcelona_Fundacio_Miro_l1

  • Barcelona Metro Walks App

This Barcelona app will guide you around Barcelona’s surrounding neighbourhoods by public transport and on foot. The audio guide will show you the real Barcelona by explaining its history and development.

Barcelona_metrowalks_l1

  • 22@Barcelona App

Jordi, a local architect and interior designer will give you a tour of a former industrial neighbourhood, now a urban hub of innovation.

22@Barcelona.l1

  • Medieval Barcelona App

Be transported back to Barcelona’s golden age with this Barcelona app, admire the Romanesque and Gothic architecture which dominates the old part of the city. If you are interested in this topic also check our guide to 5 Medieval Villages near Barcelona.

Medieval_Barcelona.l1

  • Gaudí’s Barcelona App

This Barcelona app not only gives you practical information about these iconic sights, an architect and interior designer describes them in fascinating detail with music and sound effects.

Gaudi_Barcelona.l1

Barcelona Apps: Food

  • Barcelona Restaurants App 

Makes choosing a restaurant from the multitude of mouth-watering possibilities easy, listing a selection of the city’s most recommended restaurants near your apartment.

Restaurants_Barcelona.l1

So step into the 21st century and step out of your apartment with these helpful Barcelona apps.

sant jordi libros y rosas

Novedades editoriales en la Diada de Sant Jordi 2017

Alí Araúz

Desde el año 2015, la propia UNESCO ha nombrado a Barcelona “Ciudad de la Literatura”.

Ello sólo es la corroboración de que esta ciudad ha sido desde hace mucho tiempo una de las ciudades que da a los libros una importancia significativa. Barcelona es la capital editorial del mundo de habla hispana y es una de las pocas ciudades en que hay una festividad completamente dedicada a los libros y la literatura.

La Diada de Sant Jordi es y será siempre la festividad más emblemática de la primavera barcelonesa, y un momento en el que más allá del eslogan de “libros y rosas”, la literatura es la protagonista de un evento reconocido internacionalmente y que es parte  innegable de la imagen que Barcelona ofrece.  Si la literatura es la imagen frontal de este evento, hablaremos de las novedades editoriales que podremos disfrutar en este abril en Barcelona.

novedades literarias libros para Sant Jordi
Sant Jordi cada año nos trae las mejores novedades literarias

Estrellas ascendentes

Este año la diada de Sant Jordi se acompañará de eventos culturales adicionales, incluyendo un festival nocturno en la plaza comercial del Born, denominado “Nit del Drac”. Gracias a esta organización, varios autores estarán presentes en la ciudad y presentarán sus obras esperando cautivar a los apasionados de la literatura. Entre estos nombres, hay dos estrellas literarias ascendentes que vale la pena seguir y por supuesto, leer sus obras:

Los cuentos de Sara Mesa

A pesar de que la joven autora sevillana, Sara Mesa, fue galardonada en los inicios de su carrera por su obra en verso, son sus cuentos lo que le ha dado un reconocimiento nacional e internacional. En el año 2015 recibió el Premio Ojo Crítica de la Narrativa y ello ha potenciado la presencia editorial de su obra.

Este año 2017 presenta una edición revisada de su premiada obra “Un incendio invisible”, además de seguir promocionando su libro “Mala Letra”, publicado en el año 2016.

Rodrigo Fresán y la metaliteratura

Para los apasionados de una literatura que habla a la vez de tópicos universales y de sí misma, introspectiva y compleja, “La Parte Soñada” del autor argentino les viene como anillo al dedo. En este texto recién publicado en marzo de este año, el autor rehace y deshace a la literatura contemporánea. Este escritor detalla sus certezas dándole a su texto literario una forma pulida, dándole voz a una época en la que lo único válido es el silencio. También es una oportunidad para redescubrir sus otras obras como “Jardines de Kensington” y “La parte inventada”.

Recordando a Gloria Fuertes

En conmemoración de los cien años del nacimiento de Gloria Fuertes, hay dos libros a los cuales merece poner la pena: “Me crece la barba”, que es una antología poética y una bellísima antología, editada por Jorge de Cascante: “El libro de Gloria Fuertes. Antología de poemas y vida”.

Max Basora y la presencia catalana

No podía faltar una presencia local en una fiesta que es tan significativa en la cultura de la ciudad de Barcelona. Este año los reflectores estarán sobre el escritor Max Basora, autóctono de la propia ciudad de Barcelona y multifacético autor que estará presentando su libro en catalán “Aventures i desventures de l’insòlit i admirable Joan Orpí, conquistador i fundador de la Nova Catalunya”. ¿Suena interesante? También será una oportunidad de descubrir (o redescubrir) su primera novela corta “Volcano” que fue un absoluto éxito de la crítica.

Novedades Editoriales En Ciencia Ficción

Hay muchas novedades internacionales que seguramente estarán presentes en la Sant Jordi. Recordando que este año la festividad es domingo, ello dará la oportunidad a muchas personas de recorrer librerías a placer, y los fanáticos de este género no serán la excepción. Autores como los siguientes, tendrán nuevas publicaciones en el abril barcelonés:

  • Ken Liu
  • Brandon Sanderson
  • Cixin Liu
  • Peter Tieryas
  • Steven Erikson

Autores consolidados: Rosa Montero

La diada también puede ser la oportunidad de revisitar la obra de autores consolidados en el gusto del público y protagonistas del mundo editorial barcelonés como Rosa Montero. Su último libro “La carne” publicado en 2016 seguramente figurará protagónico en la oferta literaria de la fiesta del libro, y si hay quienes aún no hayan caído en las redes de esta maravillosa autora española, seguro lo harán al probar la exquisitez de su pluma y su manejo de la palabra.

Jaume Cabré y su esperado retorno literario

El autor Jaume Cabré ha tomado su tiempo para escribir esta fuerte serie de cuentos que buscan explorar las emociones más oscuras del ser humano. Su título en catalán “Quan arriba la penombra” y “Cuando llega la penumbra” en castellano, nos deja entrever que son trece cuentos que se asoman al lado oscuro de la vida, personajes que enfrentan periodos complicados, ladrones, suicidas, rebeldías… historias que no buscan moralizar sino mostrar crudamente la violencia y su origen y efecto en el individuo y la sociedad. A no perderse, además de que su publicación el 5 de abril cae justo para la Sant Jordi.

Algo diferente

Y en una nota especial, Marc Pastor presenta su libro “Farishta”, una compleja novela que nos lleva a seguir la vida de una huérfana de un héroe afgano y a la vez nos embebe con la historia de cosas que suceden en la polinesia francesa.

Estas novedades y ofrecimientos culturales y literarios acompañarán un programa que incluye presentaciones de la reconocida dramaturga francesa Yasmina Reza (encargada del tradicional pregón) y una serie de festividades de otras artes que soportan cual pilares el papel protagónico de la literatura como medio de unión social y de enriquecimiento personal que define a la Diada de Sant Jordi.

¿Visitas Barcelona en Abril? Entonces aprovecha tu estancia en un cómodo loft en esta ciudad para descubrir toda la variada y novedosa oferta literaria que hemos descrito y que es la punta del iceberg de una multitud de lanzamientos y novedades editoriales que pintarán el rostro de la tradicional festividad de Sant Jordi: libros y rosas para este 2017.

Sonar Festivales Barcelona

Festivales: Música y Sol en Barcelona

Alí Araúz

Los mejores festivales

La primavera en Barcelona es sinónimo de movimiento, música y diversión. Los días se hacen cada vez más largos, el ambiente veraniego ya puede sentirse al pasear por las calles, las terrazas se colman y empiezan a aparecer los chiringuitos de playa.

Para el que decide pasar unas vacaciones en la Ciudad Condal durante la primavera, la selecta temporada de festivales musicales es sin duda una incitación a la diversión y al disfrute. Se trata de una temporada vibrante e intensa que se extiende hacia el verano y que dota a esta ciudad de un fuerte encanto, sobre todo para un público joven, hambriento de música, baile y encuentros con los amigos.

Si al alquilar un apartamento en Barcelona deseas vivir una interesante y divertida experiencia musical llena de sol y de excelentes representaciones, dale un vistazo a esta increíble cartelera de festivales que abren sus puertas en cuanto el sol comienza a brillar en la bellísima ciudad de Barcelona:

Primavera Sound

Fecha: Del 31 de mayo al 4 de junio

Line Up aquí

Festival Primavera Sound - Ambiente exterior
Festival Primavera Sound 2017_día

Sónar 2017

Fecha: 15-16-17 de Junio

Line up aquí

Este festival llega a su 17° edición y con ello, va reafirmando su prestigio internacional, con un cartel de artistas internacionales de primer nivel, ecléctico y para todos los gustos. Este año hay casi doscientos artistas reconocidos que desde noviembre han confirmado su asistencia. Los dos emplazamientos principales serán los tradicionales: el Parc del Fórum presentando el grueso de la programación y en el barrio de El Raval se presentarán los conciertos gratuitos. Cabe recalcar que este festival siempre presenta una interesante mezcla de artistas emergentes y otros ya sólidamente arraigados en el cariño popular en distintas corrientes musicales: música electrónica, punk, guitarras, artistas nacionales e internacionales…sin duda, un festival a agendar si queremos experimentar una descarga de música y aprendizaje artístico.

Festival Sonar de día - Barcelona
Festival Sonar Noche - Barcelona

Este festival es sin duda alguna uno de los más reputados de la península ibérica y es un sello distintivo de la primavera en Barcelona, además de que el sello “Sonar” se precia de ser uno de los más aclamados como escaparate de la música electrónica. Con estos referentes, el festival Sonar en Barcelona se precia de presentar un cartel con lo mejor del universo musical en este género y no sólo eso, sino que se presenta también como un lugar creativo y de performance artística interactiva que va más allá de la música. Las presentaciones se realizan en dos ubicaciones: en la Fira Montjuïc de día (conciertos y showcases), así como el Sónar+D, un congreso internacional de la industria creativa, y por la noche, en Fira Gran Via de L’Hospitalet, sitio en que se realizan las mayores presentaciones musicales. DJ Shadow, Anderson .Paak, Arca y Soulwax están entre los artistas que se presentarán este año… ¿te interesa potenciar tu propia creatividad asistiendo a este magno evento?

Cruïlla

Fecha: 7, 8 y 9 de julio

Line up aquí

cruilla-festivales-barcelona

Este festival musical (que se realiza ya entrando el verano) muestra que en el panorama musical barcelonés no sólo existe música electrónica. Este es el espacio ideal para presentaciones de los géneros pop y rock, con un cartel que cada año se supera a sí mismo presentando nombres reconocidos a escala global. Con artistas en diversos idiomas y de géneros diversos, la música se da cita en el Parc del Fòrum durante un fin de semana de locura en que se puede vivir a tope una descarga de energía, arte y baile. Con nombres como Jamiroquai, The Luimineers y Los Fabulosos Cadillacs el viernes 7 de junio y los Pet Shop Boys, The Prodigy y Residente el sábado 8, sin duda la diversión estará asegurada, en un festival que celebra el arte, la música y la entrada del verano en una ciudad que, como Barcelona, abre sus puertas a todas manifestaciones artísticas con una sonrisa.

 

BBF – Barceló(na) Beach Festival

Fecha: Sábado 15 de julio

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Festivales Barcelona Beach Festival

Si estás buscando un festival de música electrónica que ponga en escena a los mejores DJ’s del momento, ésta es tu mejor alternativa. Además (y tal y como su nombre lo indica) este festival se lleva a cabo en la playa. Los vídeos de ediciones anteriores te llevará a ver cómo este festival realmente presenta lo mejor de la música electrónica y las figuras mundiales del EDM en un escenario paradisiaco con miles de asistentes que se divierten juntos en un entorno de convivencia agradable y placentera.

Para no romper con una tradición de nombres de reputación mundial, en el 2017 el cartel está integrado por:

  • Jordi Vèliz
  • Axwell Λ Ingrosso
  • Martin Garrix
  • Hardwell
  • Kitten
  • JP Candela
  • Lost Frenquencies
  • Kygo
  • Armin van Buuren
  • Entre muchos otros…

A pesar de que el BBF se desarrolla en la playa, por razones de seguridad el acceso al mar no está permitido, lo que se controla con la instalación de vallas y personal de seguridad a lo largo de la playa. El evento se desarrolla sobre la arena, por lo que se recomienda usar calzado adecuado — aunque al final de la noche seguro acabes descalzo — para poder disfrutar plenamente del baile y el ambiente acelerado del festival.

Todos estos festivales presentan un sistema de compra de tickets por adelantado y un riguroso método de admisión entrada en mano, con pulseras y control de entradas y salidas (a pesar de que en la mayoría hay libertad para entrar y salir, disfrutando de múltiples conciertos), que permiten divertirse en un entorno de seguridad y tranquilidad. Algunos de ellos donan una proporción de las entradas adquiridas a causas benéficas y en otros casos, ofrecen conciertos gratuitos.

Las opciones son diversas y las ideas, múltiples y divertidas. Lo único que hace falta es elegir uno (o varios) de estos festivales y conseguir un alojamiento adecuado como los apartamentos vacacionales en Barcelona, para disfrutar a plenitud de la música, el sol, la playa y la cultura que Barcelona tiene para ofrecer.

What to do in Barcelona in one day

Natàlia Gibernau

So, you´re stopping off in one of the best cities in the world and have a mere 24 hours to savor the sights, sounds and tastes of Catalonia´s capital. Fear not, we´ve compiled some suggestions for what to do in Barcelona in one day to ensure you don´t miss out on any of the best bits.

Barcelona´s public transport network is efficient and super easy to navigate. If you (and your travelling companion) and planning to take several journeys either by bus or metro throughout your brief stay, we recommend buying a T10 travel card from any metro station. A T10 for zone one comes in at just under 10 Euro and one ticket can be used by multiple people on both the metro and buses for 10 journeys around the city. However, if you´re planning to get around mainly on foot as per our recommended route, a single journey will only set you back €2.15 so this could be your best option.

Our ´What to do in Barcelona in one day´ route starts off at La Sagrada Família where you can marvel Antoni Gaudí’s most impressive piece of work. This spectacular building is easily accessible by metro or bus and is well worth a visit. If you are pressed for time, you could simply admire the cathedral from outside, but for those keen to enter, we strongly recommend buying tickets online in advance to avoid the lengthy queues http://www.sagradafamilia.org/en/tickets/.

Sagrada-Familia_Antoni-Gaudi_dezeen_936_0

After that, hop on the metro (L5) until the stop Diagonal. From here, head down one of the city’s most emblematic streets, Passeig de Gràcia, where you’ll find some of Barcelona’s best examples of modernist buildings. This grand street, akin to an open-air architectural museum, will take you past some of Gaudi´s best known works, including La Pedrera, La Casa Amatller or Casa Batlló until you reach Plaça Catalunya.

Passeig de Gràcia

Plaça Catalunya backs onto Barcelona´s most famous street, La Rambla, famed for its lively atmosphere, street performers, resident artists, cafes, bars and restaurants. A gentle stroll down La Rambla will take you past some of Barcelona´s most iconic buildings and structures, such as the beautiful market La Boqueria and el Gran Teatre del Liceu. La Boqueria is an explosion of colour and smells and is an absolute must for any foodies. Simply peruse the food stalls and soak up the atmosphere or pull up a chair at one of the bars and order yourself a coffee or some Cava and tapas.

Slightly further down La Rambla is the El Gran Teatre del Liceu (Barcelona´s opera house), which was founded in 1847. Once you reach El Teatre del Liceu, turn left down the street Carrer de la Palla until you reach the Cathedral square. Barcelona´s beautiful cathedral is as impressive from the inside as it is the outside so make sure you step in and admire its Gothic and Baroque features from up close! Next, make your way into the adjoining cloister. This secluded area is a peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle of the Gothic quarter´s streets and is dedicated to the city´s co-patron saint, Saint Eulàlia of Barcelona who lost her life during the Roman era after refusing to dismiss Jesus as the son of God. In her honour, the cloister still keeps 13 white geese (Eulàlia´s age at the time of her death).

Gran Teatre del Liceu

Next up on our ´What to do in Barcelona in 1 day´ tour, we suggest you walk down Via Laietana until you reach the street Jaume I. Once on Jaume I, turn left to behold Plaça Sant Jaume and the old Roman walls that once encompassed the city formerly known as Barcino. From here, get back on Via Laietana until you reach the charming Carrer de l’Argentería, which will take you down to the beautiful church of Santa María del Mar (made famous throughout the world thanks to Ildefonso Falcones´ novel Cathedral of the Sea).

Santa Maria del Mar

After a busy morning, you´ll be in need of some lunchtime sustenance and when in Barcelona that can only mean one thing; Paella! Right by Santa Maria del Mal you´ll find Passeig del Born which is home to La Vinya del Senyor which serves up a mouthwateringly delicious paella. Here you´ll also find several delightful tapas spots.

After you´ve filled your boots, walk off the post-lunchtime slump in Barcelona´s old fishing quarter, La Barceloneta. Head to the street Palau de Mar and then make your way down Passeig de Joan Borbó until you reach the city beach of Sant Sebastià. You´ll also notice lots of restaurants along the way. Our particular favourite is La Mar Salada where they serve up on of the best paellas in Barcelona.

La Barceloneta

 

Also if you want to explore Barcelona’s nightlife, save money and drink like a local, try this revolutionary App: TomaBida, the App that allows you to discover Barcelona’s best Bar and get a free drink a day! With the BizFlats code, you have this offers for you:
– 4.99€ for a 3-day visitor pass (which means 3 free drinks worth up to 30€ total)
– 6.99€ for a 7-day visitor pass (which means 7 free drinks worth up to 70€ total)

Download now TomaBida! Shall we get a drink?

So there you have it – an action-packed itinerary for what to do in Barcelona in 1 day. We hope you enjoy your short stay! And, if you are looking for accommodation, remember that here at Bizflats we have apartments which are guaranteed to make your time in Barcelona unforgettable.