Best 9 Museums in Barcelona 2023 – 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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Everything you need to know about Mobile World Congress 2023

Natàlia Gibernau

The Mobile World Congress 2023 is almost here. Also known as MWC, it is one of the largest and most influential events in the mobile technology industry. Held annually in the cultural and technological city of Barcelona, Spain, MWC brings together leading companies, experts and innovators from around the world to showcase the latest advances in the industry and share their vision for the future.

From Monday 27 February to Thursday 2 March, this platform for exhibitors to showcase cutting-edge products, technologies and services, will offer attendees from far and wide the opportunity to experience the latest developments in the mobile industry first-hand. With this year’s edition expecting to attract over 100,000 visitors from more than 200 countries, we expect Mobile World Congress 2023 to be an unparalleled opportunity to network, learn and do business. What are you waiting for?

Mobile world congress 2023

When will the Mobile World Congress 2023 take place?

As mentioned, this influential technology event will run from 27 February to 2 March. You can check out the Mobile World Congress 2023 agenda here, where you’ll find information about keynote speakers, thought-provoking debates and product presentations.

The opening times for visitors to MWC 2023 are:

Monday 27 February:  8:30 am – 7:00 pm

Tuesday, 2 March: 8:30 am – 7:00 pm

Wednesday, 3 March: 8:30 am – 7:00 pm

Thursday, 4 March: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm

Where is the Mobile World Congress 2023 being held and how can I get there?

Only 10 km from El Prat Barcelona airport (30 minutes in a taxi), Fira Gran Via will once again host this significant gathering in the mobile tech sector.

Visitors can reach the Mobile World Congress (MWC) at the Fira Gran Via Convention Centre from the centre of Barcelona easily using a variety of transportation options.

The Fira Gran Via is conveniently located near the Europa-Fira metro station on Line 1 (red line), which provides quick and easy access to and from the centre of Barcelona. There are also many bus route options to Fira Gran Via, such as lines 9, 36, 41, 45, and 46.

If visitors have their own car, Parking Fira 2 is a convenient car park connected to the venue via a covered walkway.

What themes will the Mobile World Congress 2023 explore?

This year’s main theme is “Intelligent Connectivity”. From 5G acceleration, FinTech, Reality+ and immersive technology, MWC 2023 promises to explore the most cutting-edge advances in connective technology.

Attendees can expect demonstrations of the latest 5G-enabled devices and services – including topics such as ‘FWA: The Real 5G Success Story’ and ‘Ready to Talk 6G?’ There will also be though-provoking discussions and debates about how NFTs are shaping the future of FinTech. Also, don’t miss the chance to experience immersive technologies such as virtual and augmented reality and how they are changing the way we live, work, and play, exploring topics such as ‘How Immersive Technologies Can Transform the World.’

What events and talks can I not miss?

Don’t miss the chance to hear from visionary thought leaders and industry experts as they share their insights and predictions for the future of mobile technology during the keynote sessions of this exciting event.

The most popular main keynote talk on Monday 27th from 9:30–11am by CEOs of Orange and Telefónica and the Director General of GSMA will discuss how open technologies can pave the way towards a more equitable and fair future, and explore about the opportunities for collaboration to make this vision a reality.

Another highlight includes the talk by Lucy Bronze who plays for FC Barcelona, who discuss the future of sport and entertainment at 5:15 pm on Tuesday 28th.

What format will the Mobile World Congress 2023 have?

Mobile World Congress 2023 will offer both in-person and hybrid options to ensure you don’t miss a thing. On the official MWC 2023 website you can find more information about physical and virtual passes, how to access online events and the different types of tickets available.

Where’s the best place to stay for the Mobile World Congress 2023?

If you’re visiting Barcelona to attend MWC 2023, we have several accommodation options for various budgets and group sizes. Our sophisticated 2-bedroom Calabresse apartment is stone’s throw away from Plaça Espanya metro station, which has great connections to the Fira Gran Via and generally takes around 15–20 minutes.

There’s also our charming Jollie 1-bedroomed apartment with a sub-bathed terrace is also an excellent option. This light-filled flat is within walking distance of Sants Estació, where you can take one of the many bus lines that go to the Fira Gran Via, including lines 9, 36, 41, 45, and 46.

We hope you enjoy the premium gathering in the mobile device industry that is the Mobile World Congress 2023!

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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. 

Find your perfect apartment in Barcelona here

Complete guide to the Barcelona neighbourhoods

Natàlia Gibernau

The most popular Barcelona neighbourhoods range from the city’s historic quarters to up-and-coming areas designed with the citizen in mind.

In this complete guide to the Barcelona neighbourhoods, we explore the different areas of the city to take sure you don’t miss out on the culture, history and diversity each one brings.

Whether you’re looking for a jam-packed afternoon in areas bustling with tourists and locals alike or a quiet stroll along the beach, Barcelona and its neighbourhoods have something for everyone.

El Gòtic or the Gothic quarter

Arguably the most historic of the Barcelona neighbourhoods, here you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time. Discover the origins of the city and its Roman ruins at the Museu d’Història and get lost exploring in its charming medieval streets with artisan stores and hidden bars and cafés.

The true heart of the city is also home to Barcelona’s stunning cathedral in Gothic Catalan style, the Pont del Bisbe bridge – one of the city’s most photographed spots – and Plaça Reial, a stunning square and popular nightlife spot. Discover our one-day guide to the Gothic quarter here.

Our modern three-bedroom Macca apartment is located in this Barcelona neighbourhood steeped in history and is a perfect choice to explore it.

Barcelona Neighbourhoods - Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)
Barcelona Neighbourhoods – Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)

El Born

El Born is one of our favourite Barcelona neighbourhoods and if you’ve read our Born guide you’ll know why: picturesque squares, thought-provoking museums, traditional bars and innovative eateries, not forgetting its alternative boutiques.

If you’re looking for things to do in El Born, we’d recommend going to a concert at the Palau de la Música concert hall to experience this modernist gem in all its glory. The Basilica Santa Maria del Mar is one of the city’s oldest churches with stunning stained glass windows, and makes for the perfect afternoon plan.

Barcelona neighbourhoods - El Born
Barcelona neighbourhoods – El Born

Eixample Dreta and Eixample Esquerra

This expansion district has become synonymous with Barcelona. We can’t get enough of its stunning architecture, wide avenues and sophisticated vibe. This Barcelona neighbourhood spans north of Plaça de Catalunya, encompassing Passeig de Gràcia – with either side being referred to as ‘Right’ (Dreta) and ‘Left’ (Esquerra).

This extensive neighbourhood has something for everyone, from shopping for the latest luxury brands, discovering art at the Fundació Antoni Tàpies, or marvelling at masterpieces by Antoni Gaudí – including Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and the Sagrada Família.

You can discover more about this beautiful area our complete guide to Eixample here. And if you’ve fallen in love with Eixample Esquerra, we’d recommend staying in our romantic ArtBlue penthouse with two bedrooms.

Barcelona neighbourhoods - Eixample
Barcelona neighbourhoods – Eixample

Gràcia

One of the most charming of the Barcelona neighbourhoods is Gràcia: once the holiday destination of those who lived in the centre of the city, this small village was eventually engulfed by the metropolis and now forms part of it.

Explore this Barcelona neighbourhood on foot to soak up its village atmosphere and enjoy its pretty squares. It’s also home to Gaudí’s first project: the summerhouse of Casa Vicens, and it’s also within walking distance of the marvellous Parc Güell.

Barcelona neighbourhoods - Gracia
Barcelona neighbourhoods – Gràcia

Barceloneta and Port Vell

Once the fishing quarter of the city, this Barcelona neighbourhood is now one of the most popular given its seafront location. This urban beach area is also perfect for catching some rays, playing volley ball and exploring its numerous outdoor brunch stops, coffee shops, bars and restaurants.

Barceloneta is also close to the city’s Port Vell (Old Port) at the end of La Rambla, the Maritime Museum and the city’s aquarium, a perfect plan for those visiting with family.

To explore this Barcelona neighbourhood more, we’d recommend our stunning one-bedroom Colonial apartment on Passeig Colom, which combines traditional elements with modern design.

Barcelona neighbourhoods - Barceloneta
Barcelona Neighbourhoods – Barceloneta

Raval

One of the most alternative, multicultural Barcelona neighbourhoods, Raval is brimming with street vibe. Home to cultures from all over the world, this area enjoys great diversity – visible above all in its diverse cuisine, second-hand stores and eclectic bars.

Raval is also home to MACBA – the Contemporary Art Museum of Barcelona – which celebrates the most up-and-coming artists with regular exhibitions and workshops. This wonderful neighbourhood also runs parallel to one of the most famous streets in Barcelona – La Rambla. Our three-bedroom Parsifal apartment is just off the La Rambla and steps away from its Liceu Opera House, which opened in 1847.

Barcelona Neighbourhoods - El Raval
Barcelona Neighbourhoods – El Raval

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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 Barcelona Calendar 2023 – Holidays and festivities to plan your year

Natàlia Gibernau

Here is the Barcelona Calendar 2023, with everything you need to plan the upcoming year, with a total of 14 national holidays to which local councils can add up to four additional holidays.

So whether you’re planning a New Year’s getaway, and Easter break or a summer holiday, don’t forget to check our Barcelona Calendar 2023 to plan your trip in advance and enjoy some of the local festivities the city has to offer.

Barcelona calendar 2023

Sunday, 1 January: New Year’s Day

Happy New Year!

The first day of the Barcelona Calendar 2023 is normally a family affair – think a large meal or recovering from the night before.

We recommend checking your favourite bars and restaurants in advance to confirm whether or not they’ll be open. If you’re looking for some local recommendations, check out our favourite Catalan restaurants in Barcelona.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Friday, 6 January: Three King’s Day

Three King’s Day celebrates the arrival of the Three Wise Men in Bethlehem, bearing gifts for baby Jesus, also known as the Epiphany or Twelfth Night. This day is celebrated throughout Spain with gifts, roscón – a sweet brioche-like pastry seasoned with orange blossom and topped with candied fruit – and a local procession, or cabalgata on 5 January.

Check out our article on Three King’s Day in Barcelona to make sure you don’t miss out on the festivities!

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Sunday, 12 February: Santa Eulàlia

Santa Eulàlia is known as the daughter or second patron saint of Barcelona. She is also the patron saint of sailors and is said to protect against droughts and provide safety when travelling via sea.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Thursday, 16–22 February: Carnival

The dates of Carnaval, or Carnival, change every year as this holiday takes place seven weeks after the first full moon after the winter solstice. Join in the celebrations in Barcelona!

Working day? Yes

Will shops open? Yes

Sunday, 2 April – Saturday, 8 April: Holy Week

Holy Week is celebrated throughout Spain and is a huge event on the Barcelona Calendar 2023. The kids are off school and the city welcomes processions, a range of events and activities, plus exciting sweet treats!

Holy Week starts on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Saturday.

Friday, 7 April: Good Friday

On the Barcelona Calendar 2023, Good Friday is a national holiday. You will come across Easter processions and shops will be closed.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Sunday 9 & Monday, 10 April: Easter Sunday & Easter Monday

Two of the biggest holidays on the Barcelona Calendar 2023 are Easter Sunday, a national holiday throughout Spain, and Easter Monday, a holiday in Catalonia. Be sure to get your mona de Pascua in a local bakery – these chocolate eggs come in various forms, from animals to popular characters from films and books.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Sunday, 23 April: Sant Jordi (St George’s Day)

Sant Jordi is one of the most cherished holidays in Catalan culture. This eagerly awaited festivity fills the city’s streets with books, roses and romance.

The city’s main streets are lined with book stalls and many book stores welcome writers for book signing events and more.

Working day? No

Will shops open? Yes

Monday, 1 May: Workers’ Day

International Workers’ Day is a holiday in many countries around the world, supporting the rights and fair conditions of all workers, and celebrating achievements in employment law.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Sunday, 28 May: Second Easter

Second Easter is also as the Pentecost and is celebrated fifty days after the resurrection of Christ.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Friday, 23 June–Saturday, 24 June: Sant Joan (St John’s Eve)

Sant Joan celebrations start on the eve of this holiday, on Friday 23 June. Expect bonfires on the beach, fireworks galore on what will be a night to remember!

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Tuesday, 15 August: Feast of the Assumption

In mid-August this much-awaited holiday often coincides with many local festivities and festivals, namely the Festes de Gracia in Barcelona. Find our Top 7 Tips to Celebrating the Festa Major de Gràcia here.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Sunday, 24 September: La Mercè

This festivity on the Barcelona 2023 calendar is to commemorate Our Lady of Mercy. Although the official dates are yet to be confirmed, in the week running up to this holiday, you can expect a plethora of live music events on stages throughout the city.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Monday, 11 September: The National Day of Catalonia

Known in Catalan as the Diada Nacional de Catalunya, this special day celebrates the defence of the right and freedom of the Catalan population.

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona around these dates to truly immerse yourself in Catalan culture, find out the best location to stay here.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Thursday, 12 October: The National Day of Spain

This day marks the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Wednesday, 1 November: All Saints’ Day

All Saint’s Day is a national holiday throughout Spain, and is a time of reflection and remembrance of those who are no longer with us.

On 31 October, the region celebrates La Castanyada – a traditional family event where panellets, roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes are on the table of every home.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

Wednesday, 6 December: Day of the Constitution & Friday, 8 December: Day of the Immaculate Conception

These two holidays are often grouped together for the perfect pre-Christmas break. Many schools and businesses close on the days in between the two holidays, so be sure to check opening times before planning your visit.

Working day? No

Will shops open? Yes (although double check as some businesses may close)

Monday 25 & Tuesday, 26 December: Christmas Day & St Stephen’s Day

Christmas is calling, and what a year it’s been! We can’t believe it’s over but we’re grateful for everything this year has brought us. Now it’s time to celebrate with our families.

Working day? No

Will shops open? No

We hope you find this Barcelona Calendar 2023 useful! Here’s to our best year yet!

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Everything you need to know about Three Kings Day 2023 in Barcelona

Natàlia Gibernau

Three Kings Day 2023 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 2023 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 2023
Three Kings Day 2023

When is Three Kings Day 2023 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 2023, 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 2023 Parade

Then, from 6pm onwards, the Three Kings and their entourage will begin the Three Kings Parade 2023, 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, Carrer Urgell 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.

6.15 pm – Passeig de Colom

7.30 pm – Ronda de Sant Pau

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 in Barcelona – Three Kings Day 2023

Sweet treats this Three Kings Day 2023

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 2023

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 2023 in Barcelona

The bank holiday for the Three Kings Day 2023 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. Be merry and stay safe!

10 Barcelona museums that are free on Sundays 2023

Natàlia Gibernau

Which are the Barcelona museums that are free? It’s that time of year again. Now known as blue week, the middle of January is a rather dismal time: winter is most definitely here, all the excitement of Christmas is over and our bank accounts are still recovering from the festivities of the previous month.

Yet fear not! We’re here to brighten up the bluest time of the year with this list of 10 museums in Barcelona that are free on the first Sunday of every month or, in some cases, every Sunday!

So beat the January blues by delving into all the culture, art and history Barcelona can offer you. And the best thing is, you don’t need to spend a penny! As these are (still) strange times, we recommend checking the websites before visiting and booking your spot online, if necessary.

BarcelonaMuseums that are free o Sundays
Barcelona museums that are free on Sundays

Barcelona museums that are free on Sundays

The National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC)

Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona

Capturing a century of art in the region, the stunning MNAC stands proudly at the foot of the city’s Montjuic mountain. It has a fantastic permanent art exhibition dating back to the Middle Ages and also features temporary exhibitions on artists like Gaudí. Don’t miss the rooftop view point!

Entry is free on every Saturday of the month after 3 pm, the first Sunday of the month and on the museum’s open days. You can book your spot here.

Museum of Music

Carrer de Lepant, 150, 08013 Barcelona

Boasting a collection of both ancient and contemporary instruments, the Museum of Music in Barcelona is an unmissable stop for music lovers. The museum is free on the first Sunday of the month (all day), every Sunday after 3 pm, and every Thursday after 6 pm.

Barcelona History Museum (MUHBA)

Plaça del Rei, s/n, 08002 Barcelona

Delve into the history of Barcelona – once known as Barcino ­– at this museum located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. The MUHBA forms part of a group of essential museums that put Barcelona in historical context, including Bunker 307, Park Güell, and the Temple of August.

The museum is free on Sundays between 3 pm and 8 pm and all day on the first Sunday of the month.

Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (CCCB)

Carrer de Montalegre, 5, 08001 Barcelona

The CCCB has something for everyone: from art installations, round table discussions, activities and workshops especially for kids, cinema, interactive exhibitions, and more.

Admission is free every Sunday after 3 pm but tickets must be reserved in advance. Free tickets become available every Wednesday for the upcoming Sunday and go fast, so be sure to book yours here.

Picasso Museum

Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona

This light-filled museum is home to one of the biggest collections of works by Malaga-born artist Pablo Picasso, and can be found in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Visit for free on Thursdays after 5 pm and the first Sunday of the month. We recommend reserving your free ticket before visiting here.

Museu Frederic Marès

Plaça Sant Iu, 5, 08002 Barcelona

The sculptor, artist and collector Frederic Marès donated his entire collection to the city, resulting in this beautiful museum tucked away in a section of the city’s Royal Palace. Entrance is free on the first Sunday of the month from 11 am to 8 pm and every Sunday from 3 pm onwards.

Design Museum of Barcelona

Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes, 37, 08018 Barcelona

This modern museum in Barcelona’s tech district explores different areas of the world of design and offers a journey into the aesthetics of every day life, from fashion, furniture, advertising and graphic art, textiles, and more.

Admission is free on the first Sunday of the month from 10 am to 8 pm and every Sunday from 3 pm onwards.

Maritime Museum (MMB)

Av. de les Drassanes, s/n, 08001 Barcelona

Learn about the important role the sea has played in making Barcelona the city it is today. Don’t miss the full-scale replica ships in this museum that was once the city’s royal shipyard. Admission is free every Sunday after 3 pm.

Museum of Natural Sciences

Plaza Leonardo Da Vinci, 4-5, 08019 Barcelona

This sprawling museum in Parc Forum makes for a great day out for the whole family. The building itself is a work of art and its contemporary exhibitions are often based on fun and exciting themes from the natural world. Free on Sunday afternoons after 3 pm and the first Sunday of the month.

Montjuïc Castle

Ctra. de Montjuïc, 66, 08038 Barcelona

This modest yet majestic castle dates back to 1640 and boasts spectacular panoramic views of the city. Discover more about this military fortress with free admission on Sunday afternoons after 3 pm and the first Sunday of the month.

So there you have it, a list of 10 Barcelona museums that are free on Sundays. We know what we’re doing this weekend – do you?

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