Things to Do in Barcelona

Choose from 116 Fun Things to Do in Barcelona

Parc de la Ciutadella

Barcelona’s oldest and most popular park, Parc de la Ciutadella is a picturesque expanse of greenery with several attractions. Its landmark Arc de Triomf, designed by Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, serves as the monumental gateway to the park’s northern entrance, and the park is also home to a boating lake, the Barcelona Zoo, Catalan Parliament, two museums, and a much-celebrated series of sculptures.

The Basics

Barcelona’s version of Central Park in New York ranks among the most popular attractions in the old city. Located just northeast of the city center, not far from the Barceloneta beach, the park is included in just about every small-group and private city tour. Options for tours that stop at Parc de la Ciutadella include walking, Segway, and cycling tours through the park and other points of interest, such as Las Ramblas, Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, and Port Olímpic.

Things to Know Before You Go

The park is a must-see for first-time visitors.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on a variety of surfaces.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as many areas of the park lack shade.
See the park on a walking, cycling, or Segway tour.

How to Get There

Parc de la Ciutadella is accessible on foot from just about anywhere in the old city or Barceloneta. To get there by public transportation, take the metro (Line 1) to Arc de Triomf station and head toward the park along the car-free Passeig de Lluís Companys.

When to Get There

The park bustles with visitors and locals throughout the day, so there’s never a bad time to visit. Weekends offer the best people watching, as Barcelona residents often come here for picnics and exercise.

Gaudí at the Park

When architect Josep Fontserè i Mestre was commissioned to update the park in advance of the 1888 International Exhibition, a young Antoni Gaudí (an architecture student at the time) caught his eye. Gaudí is said to have designed some of the pipework and decorative medallions of the park’s monumental fountain.

Barcelona, Spain

From $ 16

Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya

Plaça de Sant Jaume’s Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya is much more than just a building with a pretty neoclassical façade: this is the seat of the Catalan government, from where 100 presidents have governed. Constructed between the 15th and 17th centuries, the building is a symbol of Catalan perseverance, having stood the test of time through many historic challenges.

It’s not just special because of its history, either. Apart from the attractive dome-topped exterior, its interior is perhaps even more impressive. It features a Gothic chapel, elaborate ceremonial halls, loads of paintings and sculptures, and a sunlight-filled Courtyard of Orange Trees, or Pati dels Tarongers — among other Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance elements.

Practical Info

While the interior is considered by many to be the highlight of the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya, it is only open to the public the second and fourth weekends of the month (except in August). It is only visit-able via prescheduled guided tour (which lasts roughly an hour), so be sure to book online in advance via the Generalitat’s website.

Plaça de Sant Jaume, 4, Barcelona, Catalonia 08002, Spain

From $ 68

Placa Espanya

A large and significant square lined with trees and fountains, Placa Espanya is one of the busiest, most central hubs of activity in Barcelona. Many main roads intersect here, including Para•llel and Gran Via. As it is both a main metro and train stop, it is a common meeting point for travelers and locals alike. It is known for its beautiful architecture, statues, and nearby shopping as well.

The Placa Espanya ends on one side with the Font Magica, or Magic Fountain, a large fountain that becomes a light and sound show in the evenings. On the opposite end lies the Palau Nacional (National Palace,) with excellent city views from its steps. It is scenically set against the tall mountain Montjuic, with the National Museum of Catalan Art (MNAC) located just inside. Two towers on the Avinguda Maria Cristina, reminiscent of those in Venice, stand tall over the square.

Practical Info

Placa Espanya is in the Sants-Montjuïc district of Barcelona. The L1, L3, and L8 lines all run to stops here. The Font Magica shows run nightly, and are free to enjoy. The center of Barcelona is a short ten minute metro ride, or about a 35 minute walk from the plaza.

Sants-Montjuïc District, Barcelona, Spain

From $ 35

Picasso Museum

Home to more than 4,000 works by the incomparable Pablo Picasso, the Picasso Museum (Museu Picasso) is Barcelona's most visited art collection. It's housed inside five Gothic mansions, meaning the museum's architecture is an attraction all on its own — but it's the artwork and Picasso's connection to the city that truly make this museum a must-see. Among the many famous paintings, you'll find some of his self portraits and his study of 'Las Meninas' by Diego Velazquez.

The Basics
Many of the museum's permanent pieces correspond with the time Picasso spent living in Barcelona, which culminated in his Blue Period. Visitors who want more insight into the art can pay a small fee for audio guides, or join a very limited selection of small-group guided tours that are included in admission (reservations required). If you want to explore with a tour guide on your own schedule, book a separate museum tour that includes admission. Your options include a private tour, skip-the-line tickets, and a combo tour that combines a guided tour of the museum with a Gothic Quarter walking tour that stops at sites important to Picasso's Barcelona, such as the famous Els Quatre Gats café.

If you want a visual memory of your trip, you'll have to buy something at the gift shop, as photography is not allowed inside the museum.
The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers free wheelchair service. Monthly guided tours are available for visitors with visual or auditory disabilities; they must be reserved in advance.
A few temporary museum exhibits can be seen for an additional fee.

How to Get to the Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum is centrally located and accessible by bus, metro, and Barcelona's public bike system. There is no parking lot at the museum.

When to Get There
The museum is open year round, but be aware it's closed on Mondays and has extended hours on Thursdays. If you're willing to brave the crowds, it's free every Sunday after 3pm and all day every first Sunday of the month.

How Does It Compare to Europe's Other Picasso Museums?
Picasso has close ties to both Spain and France, and each country has two museums to honor him (the others are in Malaga, Paris, and Antibes). Münster, Germany, also features a museum in his honor. However, Barcelona's Museu Picasso was the first, and it was the only museum opened at the request of the artist.

Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, Barcelona 08003, Spain

Open Tues–Sun: 10am–8pm, closed Mondays

Adults: €9

From $ 25

Parque del Laberinto de Horta

Barcelona is filled with parks and unique art, and the Parque del Laberinto de Horta is one of the city’s oldest and least well known. The historic artistic gardens are part of a large former estate, containing both an 18th-century neoclassical garden and a 19th century romantic garden. The neoclassical garden was designed with the help of an Italian architect, while the romantic garden added details such as gazebos, waterfalls, and additional beds of colorful flowers.

Once the site of garden parties and socialite events, it was handed over to the city of Barcelona by the Devalls family in 1967. Visitors can still see the original mansion that the family once lived in, built in neogothic and neoarabic styles. A stroll throughout the grounds offers views of the many classical statues, fountains, Italian-style pavilions, and the hedge maze that gives the garden its name.

Practical Info

The park can be found in Barcelona’s Horta-Guinardó district at Passeig dels Castanyers 1, with the closest metro station being Mundet (Green L3 line.) It costs two euros to enter, and is free on Sundays. In order to preserve the delicate nature of the garden, no more than 750 people are allowed inside at once.

Passeig dels Castanyers, 1, Barcelona, Spain

Open Monday through Sunday, 11 am - 9 pm

€2

From $ 219

Parc de Montjuic

Overlooking southwest Barcelona, Parc de Montjuic is the city’s green hilltop getaway, packed with history and attractions, including the historic Jewish Cemetery, 17th-century Montjuic fortress, National Museum of Catalonian Art, Joan Miró Foundation, and the replica Spanish village known as Poble Espanyol.

The Basics

Offering an abundance of notable attractions, Parc de Montjuic is featured on many sightseeing tours of Barcelona. Guided tours focusing on Montjuic Mountain often include admission to the Montjuic Castle and Palau Sant Jordi, plus visits to the 1992 Olympic facilities and Plaça Espanya with its Magic Fountain. Guests visiting the park independently should note that while the park itself is free, many of its attractions charge a separate admission fee.

Things to Know Before You Go

Parc de Montjuic is a must-visit for art lovers, architecture and history buffs, and photographers.
Wear comfortable shoes and plan to do a lot of walking; the park is huge.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

How to Get There

To get to Montjuic, take the funicular to the Parc de Montjuic stop, where you can then catch the cable car gondola even farther up the hill to the castle. A hop-on hop-off bus tour is also another good option for getting around this part of town, allowing you to stop at the different attractions that interest you.

When to Get There

You could easily spend an entire day (or more) exploring Parc de Montjuic and still not see everything. Many of the museums and attractions are open during the day, while the most popular time to see the Magic Fountain at the base of Montjuic is at night during a light and sound show.

A Hill with History

Parc de Montjuic has been the site of several important chapters in Barcelona’s history. In 1929, the International Exposition triggered rapid development in and around Montjuic. During the Spanish Civil War, Montjuic Castle was used to imprison, torture, and execute political opponents of General Franco. Things took a brighter turn in 1992, when the Olympic Games came to Barcelona and the hill was chosen as the location for several sporting venues.

Barcelona, Spain

From $ 12

Passeig de Gracia

Passeig de Gracia is one of the most significant avenues in Barcelona. In addition to being home to some of the most celebrated architecture in the city, it is considered to be the most expensive street in all of Spain. Originally known as Carni de Jesus, the avenue began as a rural lane connecting Barcelona with the then-independent town of Gracia. Pursuant to an urbanization project in the 1820s, it was transformed into a wide avenue that eventually became a favorite of aristocrats. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, both for its architecture and for its shopping.

By the early 1900s, Passeig de Gracia featured homes designed by notable art nouveau/modernista architects such as Antonin Gaudi, Pere Falques, Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Lluis Domenech i Montaner and Josep Vilaseca. Visitors should take note of the Manzana de la Discordia (the Apple of Discord), a block of Passeig de Gracia located on the southwest side of the avenue between Carrer del Consell de Cent and Carrer d'Arago. Here, you'll find buildings by four prominent architects in clashing styles: the Casa Lleo Morera by Montaner, the Casa Amatller by Cadafalch, the Casa Mulleras by Enric Sagnier, and Gaudi’s famous Casa Batlló. Also see Gaudi's Casa Milà, more commonly known as La Pedrera, with its impressive chimney pots shaped into what look like medieval knights.

Other possible stops along Passeig de Gracia include the Museu del Parfum and the Fundacio Sunol, which features rotating exhibits of 20th century art.

Spain

From $ 25

Penedes

Home to more than 300 wineries, Spain’s Penedes region produces some of the country’s best cava, a sparkling wine made with the same method that’s used to make French champagne. The historic town of Vilafranca del Penedes is filled with medieval and Modernista architecture, as well as restaurants pouring locally made wines.

The Basics

Many travelers visit Penedes on a day trip from Barcelona. Though wine tasting is at the top of the activity menu, there are tours for all types of travelers. Cycle through picturesque vineyards on a guided bike tour of the region, take a food tour to sample local artisan olive oils and cheeses, or combine an afternoon of wine tasting with a morning visit to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage-listed Montserrat Monastery.

Things to Know Before You Go

Penedes is a must-visit for wine lovers and foodies.
You can pair your wine tasting with other activities such as a bicycle ride, Segway tour, or a Monastery visit.
Penedes day trips from Barcelona can last seven to 10 hours, depending on the activities that are included.
Don’t forget to bring sun protection, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.

How to Get There

Penedes is 45 minutes from Barcelona. To get there, take the Renfe train from Plaza Catalunya or Estació de Sants.

When to Get There

One of the most exciting times to visit Penedes is during the autumn grape harvest, which happens during September and October. Fall and spring both offer cooler temperatures perfect for touring the vineyards. July and August tend to be the busiest months at popular wineries and Montserrat Monastery.

Famous Winemakers of Penedes

This wine region has hundreds of wineries to choose from, but a few are such big names that you’re likely to see their labels at your wine store back home. Among those that offer tours are Codorníu with its grand Modernista building, Freixenet (the biggest cava producer in Spain), and Torres, a 17th-century family-owned winery.

Alt Penedès, Barcelona, Spain

From $ 103

Parc del Forum

If you’re eager for views of the sea, lots of photo opportunities, and wide, open spaces, then head toward the northernmost coastline of Barcelona to the Parc del Forum. This architectural park of sorts was built in 2004 for the Universal Forum of Cultures, and continues to serve as a giant venue for events and exploration.

Though many of its attractions come and go — such as Primavera Sound, an annual music festival that takes place in June — the forum is always a worthy destination, beyond just checking out the architecture. Go there to visit the natural history-focused Museu Blau, which is situated in the park’s iconic triangular-shaped Forum Building; to take a dip in the Mediterranean from the sand-free, direct-to-the-water Forum marina and bathing area; or to let the kids burn off some energy at the seaside play area.

Practical Info

Though seemingly far away from Barcelona’s center, the park is easy to get to via the Metro (stop: Maresme-Fòrum), public buses, and, the most visitor-friendly option of all, the hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Plaça del Fòrum, 1, Barcelona, Catalonia 08019, Spain

From $ 35

Palau Sant Jordi

There are many reasons to head up to Montjuïc hill’s Olympic Ring, and Palau Sant Jordi is certainly one of them. Designed for the 1992 Olympics, the indoor stadium played host to events including gymnastics, handball, volleyball, as well as various competitions during the Paralympics.

On the outside the structure looks like a square spaceship of sorts, and on the inside it’s nothing but beautiful light that pours through the building’s famous window-checkered ceiling. Today the stadium — which can hold over 16,000 people — still hosts top sports competitions, as well as events, and high-profile concerts for artists ranging from U2 to Bruce Springsteen and Rihanna. Go there to see a show yourself, or simply to admire Palau Sant Jordi’s exterior as you explore the Olympic Ring and its other sights, including the Olympic Stadium and Esplanade.

Practical Info

Though easily reachable by public bus, hop-on hop-off bus, taxi, and even by foot (via the escalators accessed from Plaça Espanya), getting back from Palau Sant Jordi after a nighttime event can be a bit complicated. As such, be sure to develop your transportation plan in advance. Also note that this area is fairly isolated, with few food-and-drink options outside of the venue itself.

Passeig Olímpic, 5-7, Barcelona, Catalonia 08038, Spain

From $ 57

Onyar River

The Onyar River will likely be your first and most lasting impression of Girona, its rainbow-colored-building-lined waters a warm welcome and unforgettable sight. Their dazzling appearance invites you to journey to the other side of the bank — the eastern side — where you’ll discover more of the city’s treasures, held within its old town.

But before you get there, you’ll likely cross one of the Onyar’s many bridges. Your eye will undoubtedly be drawn to its most peculiar and perhaps even familiar bridge, the Pont Eiffel. Indeed, this red, cage-like crossing is reminiscent of a more famous structure of the same name, the Eiffel Tower. This is, of course, because they share the same designer (the bridge was constructed in 1877, just before the tower). Once you arrive on the eastern bank, feed your river curiosity by visiting Casa Maso, the only waterside building open to the public, and once home to its namesake architect.

Practical Info

Note that if you enter the old town by crossing Plaça de Catalunya, you may walk over the Onyar without even realizing it, as the plaza literally sits atop the river. If you come this way, take advantage of your location to head to the nearby entrance to the Passeig de la Muralla – a walk on the old city walls – which is indicated by signs.

Girona, Catalonia, Spain

From $ 162

Mosaiccos

Many come to Barcelona to see the structures of the city designed by famous architect Antoni Gaudi, with his distinct vision and trademark use of intricate mosaics (called trencadis.) Not many get to learn about the process and create their own mosaics, which is where the Mosaiccos workshop comes in. With classes and activities suited for all ages, participants learn the technique, choose their design, and then craft a unique handmade souvenir. The most popular workshop is called the “Gaudi Experience,” which allows visitors to not only see but create the art itself.

There is also a shop on site with unique gifts all crafted in this broken tile and glass style. Culturally decorative mosaics have been a tradition for more than 1,000 years. It’s a hands-on way to experience the distinctive design and style that has shaped the city of Barcelona.

Practical Info

Mosaiccos is located in the historic El Born district of Barcelona on Carrer de Corders 11. It is open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 7 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm. Call ahead to reserve a spot in one of their workshops.

Carrer de Corders 11, Barcelona, Spain

Varies by workshop

From $ 52

Oller del Mas

There are numerous options for wine tasting trips from Barcelona but few offer such a unique backdrop as Oller del Mas, a 10th century castle set in a scenic 1000-acre estate. A popular detour for those visiting the Benedictine Santa Maria de Montserrat abbey on the nearby Montserrat mountain, Oller del Mas offers an atmospheric setting for a wine tasting session, effortlessly combining Catalonian culture, history and gastronomy.

Whether you stop by for a quick tasting session, take a half-day tour of the winery or couple your wines with a leisurely lunch of traditional cuisine, there’s something to please every type of wine lover at Oller del Mas. Those with a real enthusiasm for wine can learn the secrets winemaking from harvest to glass, strolling around the picturesque vineyards, the production plants and the wine cellars, and witnessing the winery’s popular Bernat Oller and Arnau Oller wines being produced.

Of course, tasting the wines is the focal point of the experience and the winery offers a varied selection of regional wines to sample, with the winemakers on hand to explain the significance of each glass. If you’ve got time, there’s no reason to end the visit there – the surrounding vineyards make an idyllic spot for a post-lunch walk and there’s even a public golf course on site.

Ctra. de Igualada, Km 3,4, Barcelona, Manresa 08240, Spain

Contact the winery for details

From $ 78

Plaça del Rei

The heart of Barcelona’s Old Town, Plaça del Rei is the city’s best preserved medieval square. The 14th-century Palau Reial Major (Royal Mayor Palace), which dominates the square was home to the counts of Barcelona and the Kings of Aragon. The Plaça is now an unofficial open-air museum of fine gothic architecture.

The Basics

Any exploration of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic) wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Plaça del Rei. Historic walking tours through this atmospheric neighborhood of narrow streets almost always stop here, along with other points of interest like the Roman walls, Temple d’August, and the Palatine Chapel of Santa Agata. The plaza itself is free to enter, but some of the buildings surrounding it charge separate admissions.

Things to Know Before You Go

Plaça del Rei is a must-see for history buffs, architecture aficionados, and first-time visitors.
Wear comfortable shoes when exploring the neighborhood on foot; the streets surrounding the plaza are often cobbled or uneven.
Plaça del Rei and many of its buildings, including the Palau Reial Major, are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Plaça del Rei is centrally located and easy to reach on foot from just about anywhere in the Old City. To get there by public transportation, take the Barcelona metro to Jaume I station (Line 4).

When to Get There

It’s best to visit the plaza during the day when its surrounding historic structures are open to visitors. The neighborhood tends to get busy during the high season in July and August, so plan to visit during the spring or autumn shoulder seasons to enjoy the plaza and surrounding neighborhood without the crowds.

Plaça del Rei and Christopher Columbus

According to local lore, it was in this plaza in Barcelona that Christopher Columbus was received by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella when he returned from his first voyage to the New World. If the story is to be believed, Columbus greeted the Spanish royals on the steps at the corner of the square.

Spain

From $ 6

Music Museum (Museu de la Musica)

Music lover or not, you’re bound to walk away singing a satisfied tune after visiting this museum. Barcelona’s Museu de la Musica sets out to take visitors on an educational and sweet-sounding tour through the evolution of music across culture and time — and all via its on-display collection of some 500 instruments.

While exploring the museum’s exhibits, you’ll have the chance to check out one of the world’s most important collections of classic guitars, and even play some tunes yourself on various instruments via an interactive gallery. The experience is all the more rich given the themed itineraries, including one for the general public, another for youngsters, and others that are more specialized.

Practical Info

The Music Museum is located not far from the Torre Agbar, which isn’t located in the main tourist center. A bit of a trek by foot, the journey can easily be made by various forms of public transport. Note that the museum is free on Sundays after 3pm, and on the first Sunday of every month. It is closed on Mondays.

L'Auditori, Carrer de Lepant, 150, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain 08013, Spain

Tues-Sat and holidays 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-8pm

General: €5; Reduced: €3.50; Under 16: Free

From $ 52

Mountain of the Jews (Montjuïc)

This hill, southwest of Barcelona’s old city, gets its name from a Jewish cemetery flowing down its slopes. After hosting both the World Exhibition in 1929 and the Olympics in 1992, the neighborhood is home to numerous attractions, including a castle, Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, the Miró Museum (Fundació Miró), and the Magic Fountain.

The Basics

As home to some of Barcelona’s best museums and attractions, Montjuïc features on many sightseeing tours of the city, including the double-decker hop-on hop-off bus (with stops at Plaça d’Espanya, the Miró Museum, cable car station, and Olympic stadium). Once in the area, it’s easy to explore the attractions that most interest you on foot, or simply soak in the views from Montjuïc Park.

Things to Know Before You Go

Montjuïc ranks among Barcelona’s best spots for panoramic views.
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a fair bit of walking.
Don’t forget to bring sun protection for exploring Montjuïc’s parks and outdoor areas.
The Montjuïc cable car and funicular are both wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Getting to Montjuïc is half of the fun. A funicular railway takes passengers up to the top of the hill and offers spectacular views along the way. There’s also a cable car connecting Montjuïc to the main beach area, and several walking paths leading up from the streets of Poble Sec.

When to Get There

The best views from the top of Montjuïc come around sunset, when the city is painted in shades of pink and orange. You could easily spend an entire day in the neighborhood (try to hit the museums first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds), finishing off with the sunset and Magic Fountain show.

Travel Through Spain at Poble Espanyol

Situated on the hillside of Montjuïc, the Spanish village (Poble Espanyol) is Spain in miniature. This open-air museum was built for the World Exhibition to show off the range of Spanish architecture through some 115 different buildings, from a Galician townhouse to a Jerez sherry cellar. Visit to get an overview of Spain’s cultural and architectural diversity, especially if you have limited time in other parts of the country.

Barcelona, Spain

Free

From $ 15

National Art Museum of Catalonia

Housed in the neo-baroque National Palace (Palau Nacional), the National Art Museum of Catalonia (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya) occupies a spectacular location, atop a hill in Montjüic. Inside is one of Catalonia’s largest museum collections: 260,000 works of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque art.

The Basics

The majestic palace of the National Art Museum of Catalonia towers over Barcelona from its perch above Plaça Espanya and the Montjüic Fountain. The building is an attraction in its own right and many sightseeing tours of the city stop there. Visitors can choose between a single admission ticket to the museum or a museum pass that grants skip-the-line entry to six Barcelona museums, including the Picasso Museum and Joan Miró Foundation.

Things to Know Before You Go

The museum is a must-see for art lovers and architecture buffs.
Book your entrance ticket ahead of time to skip the line at the ticket office and spend more time enjoying the collection.
Most of the museum spaces are wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs are available to rent from the cloakroom.
Free Wi-Fi is available on both floors of the museum.

How to Get There

There are several ways to get to the hilltop museum. Ride the funicular from Parallel metro station, or take the Barcelona metro to Plaça Espanya (Line 1 or 3) and walk up the hill to the museum entrance. The Barcelona hop-on hop-off bus stops at the museum as well.

When to Get There

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday year-round, though hours vary from season to season. Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month, when the museum can get rather crowded. Plan to visit first thing in the morning on a weekday for the best experience.

Famous Landmarks in La Ribera

The extensive museum collection can be overwhelming, so it’s a good idea to pick out a few highlights you’d like to see before you arrive. Visitor favorites often include the collection of Modernista design pieces by Antoni Gaudí, Zurbarán’s Immaculate Conception, and works by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and Rubens.

Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuc, Barcelona 08038, Spain

Varies

From $ 14

Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA)

A soaring, shimmering glass and concrete edifice in the Raval, Barcelona’s Museum of Contemporary Art was designed by US architect Richard Meier and completed in 1995, spearheading the once-tatty district’s revival. Its matt-white interior is flooded with natural light and creates the perfect backdrop for the museum’s 5,000 paintings, sculptures, images and conceptual pieces, which are shown in ever-changing temporary exhibitions running for between three and six months. Featuring avant-garde artists from the latter half of the 20th century, the collection is rich in international names such as Paul Klee, Dieter Roth and Jean-Michel Basquiat – among many others – but specializes in the works of celebrated Catalan artists including Antoni Tàpies, Miquel Barcelò, Susana Solano and Pere Jaume. The museum also has a library, a well-stocked bookshop and café as well as Saturday morning workshops for families visiting with young kids. The vast piazza leading to MACBA’s entrance is a popular meeting place for Barcelona residents and skateboarders congregate daily around the museum’s sleek ramp.

Practical Info

Plaça dels Angels 1. Open Mon, Wed–Fri 11am–7.30pm; Sat 10am–9pm; Sun 10am–3pm. Admission adults €10, seniors & students €6.5; under 14 free. Metro to Plaça de Catalunya or Universitat.

Plaça dels Angels 1, Barcelona, Spain

Varies by day

Adults: €10: Seniors/Students: €6.5; under 14 free

From $ 9

Museu del Modernisme Catala

This small museum is the only one dedicated to displaying Catalan modernisme art. It was converted from a textile factory in 2010, and exhibits some of the finest pieces of art nouveau furniture constructed in Catalunya. Most of the collection comes from two antique dealers, who have added their private collection to be shared with the public. There are over 350 works of art across several mediums, with premier modernista artists like Ramón Casas, Joan Busquets, and of course, Antoni Gaudi. A range of everything from paintings and sculptures to decorative arts and furniture can be found. The museum has become a bit of a cultural center for the city, unique to showcasing this very specific type of art created right in Catalunya.

The museum is housed in a modernista building designed by architect Enric Sagnier, with original floors kept intact. Don’t miss Gaudi’s couch designed in the shape of lips, or the exquisite stained glass on the first floor.

Practical Info

The museum is located at Carrer de Balmes 48, with hours Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm and Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm. The nearest metro station is Passeig de Gracia, and the entrance fee is 10 euro.

Carrer de Balmes 48, Barcelona, Spain

Monday - Saturday 10 am - 8 pm, Sundays 10 am - 2 pm

10 euro

From $ 12

Otto Zutz

Barcelona’s nightlife is well known throughout Europe and across the world, and Otto Zutz is a cornerstone of its club scene. Housed in a former textile factory, its dance floors and multiple bars are spread out over three levels and can hold more than 1,000 people.

The interior is well designed and contemporary, yet maintains an industrial feel. Each level is themed with different music and often features some of Europe’s best DJs, allowing for variety throughout the night. R&B, funk, and hip hop are most frequently played.

As a sophisticated venue, Otto Zutz tends to draw a well-dressed crowd. It is popular with locals and visitors alike and is regarded to be one of the best nightclubs in the city. Long lines are common on most nights, so it’s best to arrive early or find a way to get on the list to avoid waiting for entry.

Practical Info

Much to the surprise of first time visitors to Spain, nightlife often doesn’t begin before midnight (and often continues until the metro reopens the next morning.) Otto Zutz is open from 12-5am. It’s located in the Sant Gervasi neighbourhood of Gracia, a more residential area of the city. The nearest metro stop is Fontana (Green L3 line) and it takes about 5 minutes walking from there. Club attire is recommended.

Carrer de Lincoln 15, Barcelona, Spain

Weds-Sat from 12-5am

Cover charges vary

From $ 23