Barcelona has its beach, its mountains, its amazing architecture, and of course plenty of fun things to do. If you are looking for some fun experiences around the city, here we created a list of things you can do to enjoy the Mediterranean pearl.
Additionally, we had a deep research and found more activities such as
- 77 COOL things to Do in Barcelona
- and 59 Free things to do in Barcelona
- 54 romantic activities for couples in BCN
The list here of fun things to do in Barcelona includes some beach and water sports, as well as meet ups for meeting locals and expats.
No worries, if you are a solo-traveler in Barcelona, a couple, or a bunch of friends.
Key Takeaways:
Prebooking is required for some activities
- Sagrada Familia: You need to prebook your tickets for a specific time slot (or wait Β±1-2 hours in line)
- Park GΓΌell (βGaudi Parkβ): Prebooking Tickets for a specific time slot is required. You cannot show up and enter. (Tickets are typically sold out 7 days ahead)
Unique Experiences I recommend:
- Epic Boat Party β in summer 2024
- Hop on a Private Sailing Boat β Unique and Customized for Couples, Families, and Groups
- Admire the famous Flamenco Show
Book tickets to sights or the activities with GetYourGuide.com or Tiqets.com. these are are the best websites to get your sightseeing tickets. Here is our review of Tiqets.com and how to use it.
- Beach Volleyball
- Private Sailing Boat
- Boat Party
- The coolest Bike Tour (with hidden gems)
- Pub Crawl
- Paella Cooking Classes
- Rent a RED VESPA
- Be a Local in Barcelona
- Tour the Costa Brava β by Boat
- Learn Photography β with a pro photographer
- Become a kid again at Montjuicβs hidden parks
- Barcelona Pillow Fight
- Helicopter Ride β Barcelona from above
- Casa Batllo and its video guide
- Celebrate Football at Camp Nou
- City Slide Barcelona
- Portaventura and Ferrari Land
- Cruise around in a Go Car
- Eat, Drink, and repeat
- Wake Boarding and Cable Ski
- Cooking experience
- Picnic Electronic Barcelona
- Move your hips and Swing
- Day Trip to Montserrat Monastery
- The most romantic retreat
- Neighbourhood festivals
- Join the biggest Festivals in Barcelona
- Yoga in Barcelona β the unique way
- Have a romantic Picnic organized
- Aquarium
- Flamenco Show
- Hop on a Tapas Tour
- Couchsurfing Meetings
- Segway and its Alternative
- Champagne Sunset Boats
- Montjuic Cinema
- LandSailing, Parasailing and BBQ Boats
- Beach Cinema
- Spanish Guitar Concert
- Paddle Surf
- Enter Gaudi World: Casa Batllo
- Drive a kick-ass Ferrari
- Park GΓΌell and Sagrada Familia
- Printed guides for Barcelona
- Where to stay in Barcelona?
Here are fun and COOL things to do in Barcelona.
1. Beach Volleyball
Do you like beach volleyball? All over the beaches in Barcelona you can find public volleyball nets.
If you wanna even meet some locals and expats, just ask some people already playing. Maybe you can join for a match? Donβt be shy!
The best beaches in Barcelona for volleyball are:
- Playa de la Nova IcΓ ria
- Playa de Bogatell Barcelona
In Barceloneta you will find very few public volleyball nets, and itβs quite packed. So not really recommended.
2. Hop on a Private Sailing Boat
Barcelona has the beach and the sea. For me, one of the coolest things I love to do with my friends is hopping on a sailing boat and enjoy the day β or sunset.
In September 2019, my family and I joined the boat tour from Barcelonasailboats.com. BEAUTIFUL!! They still run their tours now in 2024 (I checked!).
Enjoy an amazing private boat trip with your partner, family, or friends.
Appreciate the full skyline of Barcelona from the sea. You can swim or just enjoy the breeze and the sun. Connect your music to the boat speakers and savor the tasty snacks and drinks.
Choose the duration of your private sailing trip: from 2 to 8 hours.
Highlights in a nutshell
- See the amazing views of Barcelona from the sea
- Jump in the water and swim in the Mediterranean sea
- Enjoy the sun and the breeze as you listen to your own music
- Taste delicious snacks and drinks
- Learn to drive the boat if you like (pretty cool!)
So, how does it work in detail?
You can book your private sailing trip directly on their website (www.Barcelonasailboats.com/en).
Just select the duration of the trip, the number of people in your group, the date and time of departure.
You will receive a confirmation email with the details and meeting point (Port Olimpic harbour in Barcelona ).
After meeting at the harbour, you and your group will chat with the skipper to decide which route to take.
The boat cruise is super flexible.
Let them know what you would like to see, and to do.
The skipper considers the weather, wind, and sea conditions to choose one of several sailing courses. You then board your beautiful sailboat and sail out into the sparkling open sea.
With the option to play your own music on the boat speakers, along with the many drinks and appetizers on board, you will have everything you could want as you enjoy the Spanish sunshine and, if the weather permits, the cooling waves of the sea.
Escape the crowds on this adventure on board a beautiful sailboat, which can be modified to suit your exact needs.
This is suitable for any type of tour including party, business, family, romantic, fishing, or navigation training.
What is included?
- Boat rental, Skipper, and Fuel
- Snacks
- One drink per person β cava, beer or a soft drink
Not included:
- Additional drinks (you can purchase on board more)
Afterwards I like to go for Tapas in one of the many places in El Born. My tip here? Mi favorite tapas restaurant: La Luna restaurant.
3. EPIC Boat Party
Now, this one is for the party-traveler among us!! Here you get a crazy party with a bar of beer and Sangria, naughty games and naughty people, fun-loving DJβ¦β¦.do I need to say more?
You can book these tours only with Stoketravel.com
Good to know: There is limited space on this party boat, and they only run on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Make sure you check the schedule and book asap. They fill up really fast.
You will have met new friends and going home ainβt no option, right? Many of the tipsy travelers will move on to a bar downtown. Good times for sure!
Few more cornerstone info for you:
- Operation Period for 2024 β Spring to Autumn β check here the schedule
- Prices start from 45β¬.
4. The coolest Bike Tour (with hidden gems)
There is actually many different bike tours in Barcelona β from boring to fun and even budget bike tours.
The best bike tour in Barcelona is Steel Donkey Bike Tour.
We tested it and it is the one we recommend to our friends and family. We wrote a more detailed guide comparing the best bike tours in Barcelona.
Instead of hopping on a boring and overfilled sightseeing bike tour, here you can actually experience Barcelona as a real local. Obviously they cover as well sights. But more importantly, they take you the places only locals go.
For me, it was really the perfect mix between sights and looking behind the touristic facade.
For instance?
They bring you to a local food market and a second hand flea market.
- Price: 35β¬ on a normal city bike, 45β¬ on an e-bike
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Regular Departures: Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10.00am (and flexible)
It is a perfect way to get more hints and tips on the city by the guides Edu, Mari and Milos.
The tour is by bike so you obviously need to know to handle a bike.
It is not super physically challenging, more easy-going riding.
Traveling on a shoe-string budget?
There is a small budget bike tours for backpackers for instance, that take you all the way to Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, Eixample district, Parc de la Ciutadella β for 22β¬ only. This one is a more classic sightseeing tour only.
5. Pub Crawl (paaaaaartey!)
This one is for the party people out there.
The nightlife in Barcelona is legendary and so is the Pub Crawl.
Tickets start from only 15β¬ and covers:
- Free drinks and drink specials during the pub crawl
- Skip the lines at a top club with VIP admission
- an epic night to remember
Compare pub crawls with: Airbnb Experiences | GetYourGuide
Here you can find another full guide to nightlife in Barcelona.
6. Paella Cooking Classes
How about food? Barcelona is a serious foodie-paradise, perfect for some cooking classes. No wonder we recommend joining an awesome cooking class!
The best way to do it is joining a combo of visiting a market and cooking class. It is the best way to impress your friends at home with a delicious Paella or Tapas.
Stoke Travel for a three-hour culinary adventure where youβll explore renowned food markets like La BoquerΓa or the Santa Caterina Market. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you select fresh, locally sourced ingredients for your traditional Spanish dishes.
Youβll learn to create mouthwatering treats such as paella, tapas, and sangria. Roll up your sleeves, put on an apron, and get ready to cook up a storm while indulging in our delicious sangria.
To top off the experience, why not continue the night with drinks in the lively Gothic Quarter bars or venture into one of Barcelonaβs hottest nightclubs?
You can also check cooking classes on GetYourGuide or Helina from PaellaBarcelona.com @paella.BCN Cooking School. Itβs really worth it the money.
You visit a local market and learn to cook Paella like a boss!
Hereβs what youβll learn to cook:
- Gazpacho
- Spanish tortilla
- Seafood Paella, the authentic taste of Spain (vegetarian options available!)
- Crema Catalana (delicious desert)
- Pa amb tomΓ quet (simple but delicious Catalan way of eating bread)
Prices start from 55β¬.
Bon profit and Bon appetit!=)
7. Rent a RED VESPA (like in the movies!)
This one is actually an absolute must! Barcelona is the perfect city to discover by scooter.
Read: big guide on scooter rental in Barcelona (safety and companies compared)
A scooter is the best and a Vespa most stylish way to get around the city. You can relax at the beach, drive your way to Sagrada Familia and Park GΓΌell β all that in no time! (More info on Park GΓΌell here)
You can rent the scooters in Barcelona per hour or per day. This is perfect for cool couples, hipster and friends!
Where to rent a red Vespa? You can find deals with Get Your Guide here as well as Airbnb Experiences.
8. Be a Local in Barcelona (5 Secrets)
It always feels good to discover hidden spots in Barcelona, and to feel the local vibes. You can only download our Secret & Local Tips for Barcelona. Itβs completely free!
Here we share our absolute best tips and only via this email.
We include:
- 1 best place for paella (besides the cooking class)
- 1 local bar and
- 3 more unique tips for Barcelona β by friends for friends
- + basic tips on how to stay safe and what NOT to miss
This guide is for free and includes secrets we only share with friends! Enjoy π
Not sure if you can trust us? Have a look on whatβs included in the guide.
No pressure, but once thing is certain:
You will love our secrets!
Anyhow, keep scrolling!
9. Tour the Costa Brava β by Boat
Just a 1 1/2 hour from Barcelona you have the stunning coastline of Costa Brava with gorgeous small coast villages.
Discover some of the most important villages of the Costa Brava like Tossa de Mar on a half-day tour from Barcelona.
Visit the large tourist resort of Lloret de Mar and the charming village of Tossa de Mar, considered the βPearl of the Costa Brava.β
This half-day tour from Barcelona explores the Girona coast, christened as the Costa Brava 100 years ago, due to its rugged coastline of small coves, pine forests, and crystal clear water.
Its superb natural beauty is apparent in several territories and protected areas, such as:
- Cap de Creus,
- the Emporda Marshes, and
- the Marine Reserve of the Medes islands.
The area has also historically been a point of entry and settlement for different civilizations.
Each spot has left a footprint, evidenced by the Greek and Roman sites in Γmpuries.
Read: 33 best day trips from Barcelona
You could also rent a car and visit the Costa Brava on your own.
10. Learn Photography (with a pro photographer!)
Have you ever been disappointed with your travel photos?
Are there features on your camera, or your camera phone, that you have no idea how to use!?
Do you want to come home from Barcelona with sensational shots of its city streets, beaches, graffiti and stunning medieval and modern architecture?
If you answered βyesβ to any of the above, then donβt hesitate to sign up for a photo tour withΒ Shutter Kings Barcelona.
In the company of one of their international, professional photographers, youβll explore some of the most scenic places in the city, as your guide explains everything you need to know about the art of photography, whether youβre a beginner or experienced shutterbug.
Youβll be amazed at how much you can improve your photos, in just 3 or 4 hours, thanks to their expert advice.
The tips you learn will stay with you, not just on your Barcelona trip, but for all your future travels.
In other words, this is a great investment of your time.
Check out their website forΒ more details on Barcelona photo tours or find Photography Sessions on Airbnb Experience.
Prefer to be in front of the camera, than behind it?
ThenΒ sign up for a photo shootΒ instead!
This time youβll let the professionals do the hard work behind the lens, while you pose in front of some of Barcelonaβs most stylish locations.
This experience is perfect if you need some stunning new portraits of yourself for your Instagram, or dating profiles.
Itβs also great for couples celebrating an engagement, recent marriage or a new addition to the family.
11. Become a kid again at Montjuicβs hidden parks
Montjuic offers way more than just its castle and Plaza EspaΓ±a with the magic fountains. There are plenty of gardens and parks to discover on the way up or down the castle.
Some parks even have their own βmusical games/ instrumentsβ like a human-sized whistle.
A popular and picturesque way to get up the Montjuic Cable Car.
I recommend getting your ticket beforehand, it can be quite busy in summer.
Fun for kids and grown-ups!
12. Barcelona Pillow Fight
How about punching your friends and strangers with a pillow at a public square?
The Barcelona Pillow fight is a flash mob event, attracting thousands of people every year to smash a s
ft pillow in any faces close.
Read about Barcelona Pillow Fight here at pankchophoto.com (plus photos).
13. Helicopter Ride β Barcelona from above
See the spectacular sights of Barcelona from the air!
You can charter a private helicopter ride in Barcelona starting from 79β¬.
During this 6 minute flight you will explore thousands of details, which you could never see from the ground:
- World Trade Center,
- Statue of Columbus,
- Maremagnum,
- antique quarter of fishers in Barceloneta,
- whole coastline till the Puerto Olimpico,
- beach of Marbella and the Forum of the cultures.
Is it worth it? Yes, it really is!
Flying a helicopter along the Mediterranean coast for 79β¬ only is a bargain and one of the unusual things to do in Barcelona. We know, 6 Minutes sounds like itβs a short time, but actually itβs all you need for a good experience.
For booking the helicopter ride, we recommend using BCN.Travel, a local travel agency.
They even have an office downtown.
Super helpful, reliable and quick in replying.
14. Casa Batllo and its video guide
The famous Casa BatllΓ³ is highly recommended to visit. The art of architecture by Antoni Gaudi is simply remarkable.
A true highlight to experience the genius work from the inside.
Good to know: Get the ticket beforehand to skip the ticket line.
There is no βskip the lineβ ticket available, but this way you skip the ticket desk at least.
If you donβt wanna buy online, just go to Casa Batllo and queue up.
Best time to visit is in the early morning.
Compare prices at: Get Your Guide | Tiqets.com
15. Celebrate Football at Camp Nou
This is for every football and soccer lovers and fans.
You can visit the world famous Camp Nou, walk through it to see it from the inside, and admire the holy temple of European football.
The museum is included when visiting the Camp Nou Experience. There is not shortage of trophies, history to learn.
There are even the 6 Ballon dβOr Messi won over the years.
Compare rates at: Get Your Guide | Tiqets
16. City Slide Barcelona
Update: City Slide Barcelona wanted to open its slides in 2019β¦.it did not happen.
I could not find any official information for a schedule. I will keep this page up to date to let you know.
17. Portaventura and Ferrari Land
Of course we want to cover as well more things to do for families and couples.
And this is by far the COOLEST thing to do: Portaventura!
The biggest theme park in Spain is located South of Barcelona.
You can come here easily via coach or train.
The park is amazing for:
- friends
- couples
- families with kids
They have the biggest roller coaster in Spain and a numerous parks for kids-only as well as many shows. For instance, the Ferrari Land.
Itβs a small inside park where kids can drive tiny Ferrari-looking cars and more.
Port Aventura features six different zones.
Highlights include:
- Shambhala roller coaster (the fastest and tallest hypercoaster in Europe),
- mirror maze El Secreto de los Mayas,
- and Sea Odyssey 4D.
For the under-5s thereβs a Sesame Street section that is also surprisingly enjoyable for adults.
And donβt forget your swimsuit!
There are a ton of rides with water fights, splashes, and general wetness.
Luckily, this is the Costa Dorada and that Spanish sun will have you all dry in no time!
The park opens for Easter until Halloween.
18. Cruise around in a Go Car
For me personally, a scooter is the best option for Barcelona.
However, you can also cruise around in the tiny, fun GoCars.
It feels like racing as Mario Kart through the city. I tried them once β SUPER FUN!
Besides the feeling of Mario Kart, you also have an electronic tour guide with you. You will be lead through the city + get some info on buildings. The GoCar team proposes different kinds of tours and the most popular are the 3 tours of 3 hours, which is 45β¬ per person.
Important: The driverβs age has to be minimum 21 and you have to bring your driving license.
(Please check always prices directly with Get Your Guide as they can change depending on season.)
19. Eat, Drink, and repeat
This is pure fun and absolutely famous for students and expats.
The Can Paixano La Xampanyeria is a tiny, hidden bar serving delicious and authentic tapas and finger-food.
Important: For every food you are ordering you have to order at least on Cava as well.
My personal tip: come here before 6pm. Order a cava (white or rosΓ©) along with something to eat. I am usually here for max 30 min and move on to El Born.
20. Wake Boarding and Cable Ski
Just outside the city, in Montgat, you can improve (or try for the firs time) your Wakeboarding skills!
A short 15 minutes ride with the train from Plaza Catalunya to Malgrat you can find a nice and cozy beach bar where you can enjoy Cable Ski.
And by the way:Β This place is directly located next to the train station Malgrat, and the beach.
Itβs worth it to spend your beach day here as well!
Check out Malamar Restaurant & Lounge for more info the wake boarding.
Photo by Ezeof
21. Yummy! Cooking experience
Weβve already covered the cooking classes and the market tour above, but here is even more.
Why?
Seriously, cooking and eating is a must-do here. We joined our very first cooking class in the city with Stoke Travel β it was amazing! We cooked Paella, made some handmade Sangria and more.
Here is a list of cooking networks and classes:
- Stoke Travel
- You can book a complete private cooking class
- Helina from PaellaBarcelona.com @paella.BCN Cooking School
22. Picnic Electronic Barcelona
Another great outdoor activity during summer is the Piknik Electronic, as well taken place at Montjuic.
This small festival is a traditional picnic combined with electronic music.
You see, Montjuic is quite busy!
23. Move your hips and Swing!
If you feel like dancing some Swing, head over to Parc de la Ciutadella.
Every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month from 12:00 until 14:30 you can join BCNSwing and its Swing classes.
It is completely for free and they meet up at the Pavillon right in front of the fountain.
Even better: Rooftop Tango Lesson & drinks!
Imagine you could join some local tango lesson on a roof top terrace?
On Airbnb Experience I have found this unique experience in the old town, the Gothic Quarter.
Discover the magic of embraces while you enjoy drinks in a great rooftop in the heart of Gothic Quarter. It is a unique way of meeting locals, having fun and experience a local life-style.
24. Day Trip to Montserrat Monastery
One of the best day trips from Barcelona is visiting the majestic Montserrat.
The Montserrat mountain played and still plays an important role for the Catalan culture.
Here was the only place the Catalan language was allowed during the dictatorship of Franco.
Montserrat always symbolized hope.
Besides the historic side, the Mountain of Montserrat is an incredible experience. You take a super steep cable car up the mountain.
Here you have a restaurant, a museum and monastery to visit.
Inside the monastery, there is the famous black Madonna!
After the museum you can go for hiking.
The views are breathtaking up here.
Every time we went, we came here with the public train from Placa Espanya.
There are tours you can join. This is actually recommended.
The tours start from 55β¬ and take away the hassle of finding the right train.
Wine Tasting: You can also book the Montserrat tour with a Wine Tasting and Tapas Tours.
These tours are great! We always recommend them to our friends and family!
If you would like to go by your own, check out how to get to Montserrat Mountain.
Read: 31 more day trips from Barcelona.
Photo by jenndfrancis
25. The most romantic retreat
There is a super beautiful Arabic Spa located in the city center.
The spa has several different spa areas like the hot tub, the cold one, the salty one. You can as well book massages, hop into the sauna.
All that in a beautiful medieval-style spa under the ground of the old town. The place is called AIRE SPA and we recommend it for couples as well as friends to unwind.
Find schedules, more info and prices for Aire Spa.
And hereβs the kicker: It even opens at spot midnight!
Good to know: There is only 20 people at a time in the 2 hour slot. A super romantic retreat.
Fully booked?
Here is a list of the best spas in Barcelona.
Read: a list of 53 more romantic ideas for couples in the city.
26. Neighbourhood festivals
Barcelona neighbourhoods have their own street festivals throughout the year.
You can have a beer at a street concert in Poble Nou, or get lost in the stunning street decorations of Gracias fest βFiestas de Graciaβ.
Find the full calendar of all the different street festivals in Barcelona on the website here.
27. Join the biggest Festivals in Barcelona
There is not enough space to list all cool festivals, but these two are certainly the most important and biggest once:
- La Merce (end of September)
- Primavera Sound (Summer)
- CruΓ―lla Festival (Summer)
There is always something going on, whether it is winter, spring, summer or autumn.
keep your eyes open for those special events.
28. Yoga in Barcelona β the unique way
Sunrise & Sunset Yoga Session
Yoga, Beach, Sunrise (or Sunset), Barcelona β Yes, that sounds about right!
You can enjoy a budget-friendly yoga session on Barcelona beach with Macarena, owner and an experienced yoga instructor and Laia, the other owner.
It is a 60 min multilevel vinyasa flow yoga practice. You will practice on a concrete platform so you wonβt get sandy! Yoga mats are provided (but please always check this beforehand as this can change).
There are even more unique experiences such as Sunrise Paddle Surf and Full Moon Live Music. Find more yoga retreats in Barcelona here.
Sunrise Paddle Surf
If you want to add an extra level of fitness to your list of fun things to do in Barcelona, then this is your master piece.
Stand Up Paddle Surf combined with some yoga lessons can be really challenging. For the Yoga-Paddle-Surfer, you can join again Macarena and Laia. Check their website for more information.
You can also join the popular sunrise paddle surf. You do not need to be experienced with paddle surf here!
- You will do a little warm up!
- Laia will teach you how to paddle from the beach.
- You will learn how to stand up!
- You get a few tips to manage the paddle, its super easy! You dont need previous experience at all.
- While you are in the water, Laia will take you some cool pictures with sun rising and Barcelonaβs skyline for free, is the best view!
29. Have a romantic Picnic organized
Oh oh ohh, this is one of the unique things to do in Barcelona for families and couples.
Imagine a romantic and fun picnic at sunset with stunning views over the city β with friends, the whole family or as a romantic gesture for your partner.
There was a company that offered those unique experiences.
You could get your picnic basket loaded with local culinary delights and get it delivered to the picnic spot of your choice.
They could even help you pinpoint unique spots, dotted over the city.
This way you discovered a real hidden gem in Barcelona and definitely a unique dinner or lunch.
Now this company does not exist anymore, but you can create the picnic yourself.
Go to the supermarket and pick an βAperitivo selectionβ:
- cheese
- wine
- chips
- fruitβ¦
And donβt forget to bring cups to drink!
The Picnic Spot?
There are plenty of places where you can do a romantic picnic around the city. One of the best in the city is at βCarmel Bunker β so you can get a panorama view.
Read: More 54 Romantic things to do in Barcelona
30. Perfect for Families: Aquarium
We covered a lot of fun and party for young adults and adults.
What about awesome things to do in Barcelona with kids and for families?
Here you go:
The Barcelona Aquarium is located in Port Vell, the cityβs old harbor area, and is the worldβs most important marine leisure and education center dedicated to Mediterranean undersea life.
Most spectacular of all is the immense Oceanarium, 5 meters deep and 36 meters in diameter.
A transparent 80-meter-long tunnel runs through the Oceanarium, making it possible for you to walk among sharks, gilt heads, morays, ocean sunfish, and many other species.
Compare prices at: Tiqets.com | Get Your Guide
31. Admire a Flamenco Show
There are many flamenco shows all around the city. And they are really entertaining.
The one we like is the Tablao Flamenco in Palacio del Flamenco, downtown.
Find prices and schedules right here.
However, there are many around the city.
Update: Tablao del Carmen is the MOST popular show for Flamenco; highly recommended as it is really the best one!
I recommend this to everyone looking for a tranquil night out, enjoying local culture. It is really worth it.
32. Hop on a Tapas Tour
Earlier we mentioned the cooking class. Of course you can also just eat out!
Eating tapas is synonymous with a visit to Barcelona, and a Tapas & Beers food tour will take you to some of the most authentic tapas bars in the hip district of Gracia, to try classic Spanish and Catalan dishes like razor clams, patatas bravas and Iberian ham.
If you are crazy about cerveza they also have a dedicated craft beer tour, where you get to try some of the latest regional beers with a master brewer.
I recommend the guys from www.foodtoursbarcelona.com or this Tapas Hopping Tour from Airbnb Experience.
For Food Tours BCN you can find rates and schedules on their website. Their food tours take you on a journey of local tapas bars (that are actually more for the locals!)
More the party-kind of person? Then hop on the famous pub crawl.
33. Couchsurfing Meetings
Like every other big city in Europe, couchsurfing meetings in Barcelona are quite common.
Just check out all traveler meetings in Barcelona such as:
- Tuesday β Weekly Language & Tapas Meeting
- Monday β GrΓ cia Meeting with Couchsurfing, just to name a few.
Check out Couchsurfing events in Barcelona.
34. Segway and its Alternative
A Segway Tour is pretty fun, especially next to the beaches in Barceloneta.
Make sure you actually know how to handle the Segway.
The tour guide will give you a prior training obviously, so you are safe.
Prices start from 29β¬.
Fancy more some skating? Be a local and hit the boardwalk with your skates. You wonβt be the only one skating there β promised!
Check out the SkateClub.
35. Champagne Sunset Boats (our recent discovery for summer time 2024)
Oh boy, this one is FUNtastic!
The one and only Champagne Sunset Tour by Stoke Travel.
This is the #1 tip for everyone who wants to experience Barcelona at its best on a classy party cruise.
Get glammed up and treat yourself to an evening of champagne cocktails, delicious Spanish specialties, great company, waitress service and superb views of the Mediterranean.
Oh, and there is live music like chilled, jazz, bossa nova styles.
Pretty epic!
Hereβs the info in a nutshell.
- Tour: 2 and a half hour cruise on a double story stunning white catamaran
- Drinks Consumption card: 4 drink stamps per person
- Food: Traditional Spanish Paella, with a side salad
- Views: Stunning coastal views of Barcelona
- Style: glamorous crowd with a great vibe
- After-Party: Free VIP club entry at a top Barcelona beach club
For prices and schedules, check out stoketravel.com/champagnesunset
Prices start from 65β¬ for this tour.
Few more cornerstone info for you:
- Operation Period: Friday 8:30pm (29th May- 7th August)
- Departure times: 29/05 β 07/08 Fridays 8:30pm β 11pm
Good to know: Champagne Sunset VIP Sunset Cruises are running every Friday at 8:30pm from the Port Vell harbour location during the season.
Make sure you check Stoke Travel for their schedule.
36. Montjuic Cinema (summer special!)
Open-Air Film festival under the Barcelona Sky right at the Castle of Montjuic β do we need to say anything more?
Hardly.
Check out Sala Montjuic for specific dates.
This event only takes place from July to August. Also, there is usually live music before the actual movie starts.
Come here beforehand, bring a picnic blanket and some snacks. This is one of my favorite activities with friends in Barcelona!
To secure your ticket, get your ticket directly with Sala Montjuic.
37. LandSailing, Parasailing and BBQ Boats
Do you like GoKarting? Then you will love even more Land Sailing!
A land-sailing mini-yacht is a kart with three wheels and a sail. You can start a race against your friends next to the beach.
There is even an official race, just check out Land Sailing Barcelona.
This is for the Adrenalin-junky around us β obviously! It starts in the harbor and brings you around the coast line.
38. Beach Cinema
There is also a beach-version of the open-air film festival.
Feel the sand on your feet and watch movies from classic to alternative.
Check all the dates of beach cinema Lliure here.
You do NOT need a ticket here, it is free!
Make sure you come early as it is usually very busy here.
This is why I actually prefer the Montjuic Cinema, mentioned before.
39. Spanish Guitar Concert
Once we were wandering around the old town and saw this big sign:
Spanish guitar concert tonight in a former monastery!
We bought the ticket at the entrance, entered, and loved it!
It was simply amazing.
If you are into live music, you will enjoy a beautiful Spanish guitar concert β no doubt about it.
The one we visited was also entertaining as three musicians started to play simultaneously on one single guitar.
40. Are you up for Stand-Up (Paddle Surf)?
Barcelonaβs beach is actually perfect for Stand-Up Paddle Surf as the wind is not that strong like in the Atlantic coast, and the sea is calm.
Rent a paddle board and get started.
It will be plenty of fun so more people you are.
41. Enter Gaudi World: Casa Batllo
After the Sagrada Familia, the world famous Casa Batllo is a must-visit.
Visit Casa BatllΓ³, one of GaudΓΒβs most impressive works, with an insightful video guide to explain the distinctive features and elements.
You can actually enter the building, located on the prestige Passeig de Gracia.
Inside you will be walking around with a video guide with Augmented Reality in your hand (check the video below).
The colorful windows, the shapes and the stories behind; Casa Batllo is really interesting.
Even for the non-architects lovers.
For children, the playful house is also a curious visit.
The best part, kids under 7 get in free and donβt need a ticket.
You will need to purchase a ticket to enter.
Best recommendation I can give you, get the Skip The Line Ticket!
The queues are really long.
You will notice a long line every time you walk-pass the building.
Compare rates at: Get Your Guide | Tiqets
42. Drive a kick-ass Ferrari (for only 88β¬!!!)
UPDATE: Since 2019, this is no longer possible.
Have we ever told you about the time we drove a Ferrari through Barcelona?
You can seriously rent a Ferrari. The best part: Prices start from only 88β¬.
Enjoy the speed of the beast, going from 0-100 in 3.8s.
You can choose to drive it on one of 3 routes, our favorite being the drive up to Montjuic and making a lap of the old Urban F1 circuit.
Sebastian Vettel watch out!
Make sure you bring your own camera, you will want evidence to prove to your friends that you actually did it.
You can also place your own GoPro on the car to get some cool video footage to make your friends even more jealous.
My recommendation: This is a perfect gift for your partner or friend.
If your friend or partner is into fast cars, I recommend this as a surprise gift.
Just make sure she/ he brings the driving license. You need it to rent the car.
UPDATE: Park GΓΌell and Sagrada Familia
As so many asked, we wanted to include this here as well.
There are only 2 things you have to prepare BEFORE coming here:
1. Visit Park GΓΌell β preo-booking required!
Since 2015 there is an entrance fee for the main part (the beautiful one).
You need to buy a ticket at least 1 day before for the main part of Park GΓΌell.
I highly recommend to buy it as soon as you know your travel plans.
Otherwise you will be stuck with a ticket for 7am in the morning as everything else is sold out.
Check available time slots here. Just enter your travel dates.
You might read Park GΓΌell is free. There is actually one part of the park which is free, but it is not the one you wanna see.
The most beautifulΒ part, with the salamander, the main monumental area, and the trencadΓs artwork (famous chopped ceramics) requires a ticket. And it cannot be purchased at the moment.
Again: You HAVE to get your ticket to Park GΓΌell beforehand (to actually enter).
Compare prices: Tiqets.com | Get Your Guide
2. Same goes for Sagrada Familia
Get your tickets as soon as you can! You can skip the line and also go up the tower. If you are queuing up, you cannot enter any tower.
Make sure you purchase your ticket before to skip the line at Sagrada Familia.
I also recommend getting the audio guide. ItΒ will give you an insight of Gaudis intention and what different symbols mean.
It is quite fascinating, especially the different animals on the windows inside.
Smart tip: Go before 10am in the morning, itβs less busy!
Compare rates at: Get Your Guide | Tiqets
Here you can instantly check for free time slots visiting Sagrada Familiy with Fast Track.
Printed guides for Barcelona
Fan of printed city guides?
Have a look as well at Fodorβs insider Guide and Rick Steves Pocket Guide.
Or click directly on the images to get your copy.
Where to stay in Barcelona?
Alright, now that you have the coolest activities, you want to know where you get your rest at night.
I found this useful guide to where to stay in BarcelonaΒ β as first time visitors.
Of course, I do also have my top recommendations
I divided them into different traveler types:
- solo
- couples
- families
- groups
Just pick the one you need, I handpicked an accommodation for every traveler type. Easy peasy! π
Alternatively, you could also check out the best Party Hostels in Barcelona.
1) Solo-Traveler and Backpacker
We summed up the 3 best hostels in Barcelona.
The quick overview is:
Those are the best options for solo-travelers and they are even recommended for couples. Here you can mingle with more travelers and stay in style.
Seriously, the hostels we cover here are true design treasures. At Hostelz.com you can compare all prices for the hostels in Barcelona. It makes it a convenient way actually to find best rates. Have a look on what hostels you can expect:
2) Families
An apartment is the best option for families. Here we recommend the BAI81 Apartments.
Located in Eixample, you are in walking distance to main modernist GaudΓ attractions like Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo.
Their kitchen is well equipped and itβs a safe area The apartments are always clean. If my friends cannot stay with me, this is where I send them when visiting.
3) Couples
For the romantic city break, I recommend Hotel Mercer Barcelona.
Located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter (really downtown!), Hotel Mercer Barcelona is set in one of the cityβs ancient buildings, next to the Roman walls.
Chic decor, high ceilings with exposed brick walls, and an interior country yard with orange trees.
There is a even a super big roof top terrace with restaurant and bar!
This is my #1 tip for the romantic couple coming over for a few days.
4) Groups of friends
When heading over with a group of friends, you want to have your own space. And it should be a cool one, preferably with a nice terrace.
My best tip: Inside Barcelona Apartments Mercat!
The apartment has everything you need from dish washer to terrace.
They have more than 1 apartment here in Barcelona.
I really like that every apartment has a small terrace. This adds some extra quality time to your Barcelona adventure. Therefore, this is my #1 recommendation.
I mean, everybody loves terraces!
Oh, you are still here?
We thought you would be hitting the road already having some fun in Barcelona!
We keep this article always up to date.
Barcelona is our home and there is always something new and cool coming up.
Do you have any questions?
Then please please bother us and write it in the comments.
We want to keep this article as useful and cool as possible.
Your questions helps us to understand on what things and activities I missed to mention.
Therefore, drop a comment with your question below.
I am looking forward to hear from you!
Looking for more ideas?
No problem! Here you have plenty of ideas for Barcelona:
- 77 COOL things to do in Barcelona by us directly
- 59 FREE things to do in Barcelona (for the ones traveling on a small budget)
Looking for something specific?
How to get around Barcelona?
The old town is really walk-able, the rest not that much.
So you need to get some sort of transport.
1. Hop-on-Hop-Off Bus
The easiest way to get to all major tourist sights is without a doubt the Hop-on-Hop-Off Bus.
Buy the ticket with Get Your Guide. It is our go-to wbsite for getting tickets all over Europe. Here is a review of Get Your Guide.
2. Public Transport
However, the Public Transport here is almost perfect.
The bus is well-connected and there is a metro every 2-3 minutes.
We recommend to get the HOLA BCN Ticket.
Choose a 2,3,4 or 5-day pass to use the public transport for a fix price.
Smart tip: NEVER buy a single ticket for the metro in Barcelona. Why? A single ticket will cost youΒ almost 3β¬.
The HOLA BCN Ticket is 6,50β¬ per day.
When using public transport a lot, it really pays off.
Have a look on the offers at the vending machine.
3. Get a Vespa.
We mentioned this in point #3. Get a Red Vespa like in the movies.
Epic Day Trips from Barcelona
There are plenty of trips you can take from Barcelona.
Here is a collection of 33 day trips from Barcelona.
Here is our video of Canyoning we did:
Amsterdam, London and Rome
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We also found
- 44 entertaining ideas for London
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- and 24 entertainment tips for Paris
- 29 fun things to do in Lisbon
If you would love any more info, please drop us an email.
We are super keen about helping you.
As you see, we could talk about BARCELONA all day long π
Donβt forget to download our exclusive guide for Barcelona here.
Over to you: Questions?
Do you have questions, doubts, something not clear? Please please please bother me and drop me a comment.
I want to have this article for you as useful and informative as possible. Your question actually helps me to see what Iβve missed.
Therefore, your questions helps you, me and all the other readers.
Just leave a comment below =)
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