Things to do in Barcelona

Barcelona offers thousands of shops, so there will be plenty to choose from if you want a day of shopping. Walking up Las Ramblas, Passeig de Gràcia, Plaça de Catalunya and Avinguda Diagonal, you’ll find a miscellany of different shops, from luxury clothing brands to traditional crafts!

Travel around the city to fully appreciate Barcelona’s rich architecture, from Roman ruins to Modernist structures, with Gaudí’s incredible buildings, down to the ultra-modern architectural designs. For something unique, visit the Poble Espanyol of Montjuïc. This is a bespoke “ideal model” of a Spanish town that brings together Spain’s most notable buildings. Inside, you’ll find arts and crafts being made in front of you and plenty of restaurants to eat in. Work your way around the tapas bars in the rest of Barcelona, trying out the Gràcia and Ciutat Vella neighbourhoods.

For some special fiestas, note down these dates: 23rd of April and the 24th of June. The night of Saint John is celebrated with great pomp by the Catalans. Spectacular bonfires are lit up to burn away what is “old” from sundown on the 23rd of June. Traditionally, people would burn old furniture out in the street, but now these fires are held at the beach. Before sunrise, take a dip in the ocean with the rest of the crowd and admire the stunning fireworks.

Sant Jordi is a day to celebrate your loved ones. It is similar to Valentine’s Day, but with a characteristic touch. On the 23rd of April, women receive a rose and men receive a book in return. The streets fill with bookstands and flowers, magnifying the city’s charm.

If you’re in Barcelona during Carnival, make the most of it! Carnival in Barcelona involves eating, drinking and dancing and is terrific fun! It starts on “Fat Thursday”, where food is the main theme as to prepare for the period of Lent. A parade filled with decorated floats and people with costumes, typical acts and lots of dancing takes place throughout the following week.

With such high spirits, the city of Barcelona is also home to some of the most amazing music festivals and venues. Check what’s on El Gran Teatre del Liceu, Barcelona’s famous Opera house founded in 1847. The Palau de la Música Catalana, apart from offering an unforgettable modernist concert hall, stages all kinds of musical genres. For great live music hit Razzmatazz and for something alternative look out for the biggest festival, Sónar, generally held in June!

With so many things to do in Barcelona, you’re simply spoiled by choices!