They say the best things in life are free, but are they really?
I guess we can find hugs, friends, family, sleep fountain shows… Wait! Fountain shows? In Barcelona, yes.
With all free activities in Barcelona, you can spend a weekend here without spending a penny. Just make sure you don't end up camping outside.
Here are all the things to do for free in Barcelona:
18 free things to do in Barcelona
Stroll through the Boquería market
Le largest market in Europe nestled in the middle of the Rambla.
La Boqueria is a feast for the senses and the bustle of the market is a spectacle in itself. A perfect place to take photos: colorful, aromatic, lively. So install Instagram.
The former winner of the " Best market in the world At the World Market Congress I could inspire you to spend! If you're not a fan of crowds and prices, head to another of Barcelona's best markets.
Attend the Magic Fountain show
The complete champion of free things to do in Barcelona at night.
At the foot of Palais National (headquarters of the National Museum of Art of Catalonia: MNAC), discover the magic fountain show: 3620 water jets synchronized with light and music, a true ballet.
For more information and schedules, read my article dedicated to the Magic Fountain of Barcelona.
Enjoy a beautiful view of the city.
How many European cities offer a view like this without having to pay to climb a tower?
The feeling of escaping when you escape the noise from the city center for a view panoramic The breathtaking view of a beautiful city is priceless. I suggest you start with the famous free zone utopian monument de Gaudí, Parc Guell.
Less touristy places like Turó de la Rovira (the "bunkers") or Montjuic are calmer and conducive to philosophical thoughts with yourself. Big life decisions made here? Done!
Go to the beach
Of all the things to do for free in Barcelona, should we really talk about gold sand? We cover this in more depth in our article on the best beaches in Barcelona, but here are some general tips:
- Avoid the busy central beaches (Barceloneta, Vila Olympica).
- Go further north (Marbella, Nova Mar) for cleaner water and more space.
- Be careful with your valuables when you go swimming!
- Gets crowded in the afternoon, so the later the better.
Swimming season is extended from May to SeptemberThe peak months being naturally July and August. Even on a sunny autumn or winter day, you can take a walk along the seaside promenade, the promenade.
Stroll along the Modernism Route
So many architectural masterpieces and so little time.
Composed of 115 buildings, among which are the famous Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and Casa Vicens, this route not only presents wealth and talent of Catalonia at the turn of the century, but also industrial madness that happen in each new residence palace.
For a complete itinerary dedicated to Catalan Modernism, see the website of the Route of Modernism.
Have a picnic in the Ciutadella Park
This 280-square-meter urban park is Barcelona's green lung and by far its largest park.
What really sets this place apart is the mix of people: young people, families with children, Street performers, punk rockers, runners, musicians, tourists and locals living together. Keep an eye out for the fountain, inspired by the Trevi Fountain in Rome.
Stone carving in the pond Parade ground Representing an inconsolable woman is thought-provoking, but you'll be comforted by your picnic bought at the nearby Condis supermarket on Calle Comerç 19.
Discover the Fiestas Mayores
In summer, entire neighborhoods like Grace et The Gothic welcome week-long street festivals. From our list of free things to do in Barcelona, this must be the best value for money.
Legendary Festa Mayor de Gracia takes place in August and redecorates its streets according to certain themes. In fact, last year's stunning Japanese-themed town was the big winner. Each block has a live music different with food and drink.
And who could forget September and its legendary correfoc (parade of fire breathing dragons and revelers dancing in the flames) during Goods? There is live music everywhere, exhibits, food, traditional costumes, and more.
Check out this link for a full list of Festes Majors.
Go to a street show
In the Port Vell area and all over the old town, you can know very well street musicians, making you listen to good music and putting you in a good mood.
From Cuban and Latin rhythms to pianists that look like something out of a vintage movie, to composers, you always need a good soundtrack to visit our beautiful city!
Enjoy free food (yes, free!)
What could be better than having quality Spanish tapas with your beer? Take tapas free with your beer.
Although the tapas bars of Barcelona can hardly be compared to the generosity Of its cousins in southern Andalusia, there are still a handful of great bars that will give you free food when you order drinks.
See the full list in my article of the best tapas bars in Barcelona + 7 free tips.
Sit in a square and watch the spectacle of passersby.
In Barcelona, life flows through the streets and you can admire it by sitting on the steps of a charming little square.
The Gràcia neighborhood is a perfect example: spend a Saturday afternoon in the Plaza del Sol (Metro Fontana L3) and meet dozens of people sitting on the floor chatting!
If you are looking for more plugged, Meet at MACBA (Plaça dels Àngels, metro L1 or L2 Universitat) in the Raval, and watch the skaters try new tricks.
Take some dance steps
Sunday, in the town squares, from 12:14 to 30: XNUMX hours, swing lovers You will meet the sound of the rhythms of 1920 years..
The first Sunday of each month takes place in the Roundabout du Casino del Poblenou (Metro Llacuna), the third Sunday in the Plaza Huesca de Sants (Metro Hostafrancs) and the last week in the Virreina de Gracia Square (Metro Fontana).
Visit the Santa Maria del Mar
Considered the best and most complete example ofCatalan Gothic architectureIt is a place not to be missed if you walk through the streets of the famous Born district.
laimposing XNUMXth century church It is surrounded by surrounding buildings (which makes the overall impression difficult), but the interior is purely light and airy. The tall columns were a great inspiration for Gaudí's Sagrada Familia.
Look into the vault and search for smoke-blackened walls during an anti-Franco demonstration during the Spanish Civil War.
Take advantage of the free museums on some Sundays
Here is one of the free things to do in Barcelona that usually costs money. A handful of popular Barcelona museums offer free admission, usually on Sundays.
First Sunday of every month: Picasso Museum, Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, National Museum of Art of Catalonia (also Saturdays after 15: XNUMX hours), Museum of History of Catalonia.
You can also visit the Chocolate Museum for free on the first Monday of each month.
Bird Park of the Labyrinth of Horta was lost
Besides being one of the most romantic places in Barcelona, this half-park, half-labyrinth is free on Wednesdays and Sundays. if he oldest garden in barcelona full of flower beds, small squares, waterfalls and mythical statues.
Another great city break: have fun with your family, friends or challenge your partner to see who can get out first.
Surfing the Internet
This simple skill that we all take for granted at home may be the best of all free things in Barcelona. Barcelona's free Internet network Barcelona WiFi has connection points in most of the city: 632 points to be exact.
To be sure that you have access points near your apartment or hostel, you can check the WiFi map of the city of Barcelona.
Discover the Barcelona of 1714
This imposing metal structure built in 1876 is located in the Born district, a few steps from Santa María del Mar and the Picasso Museum. It used to be a market. Today, it is a beautiful cultural center of 8 square meters.
It is a window to XNUMXth century Barcelona, rather than to the ruins themselves, the visit is worth it for its peculiarity. It is a good example of Barcelona's ability to give new life to abandoned architectural works.
Take a free tour
So this one is only free if you are a horrible person and don't finish Give a tip to your guide.
However, I have found that free guided tours of Barcelona are a great way to get an idea of the city, Especially if you are too lazy to read about it yourself!
Runnerbean Tours offers a wide selection of guide-led tours. charming and culturedIncluding the Gothic Quarter, Gaudí's Barcelona, and the spooky 'Dark Past' night tour, these tours are in English.
Pass by Botero's cat
This great feline, the work of the great Colombian artist Fernando Botero, seems to look mischievously at the city of Barcelona and the cosmopolitan Rambla del Raval (metro L2 / L3 Paral-lel) where it was installed in 2003.
A photo with this statue a symbol of the cityIt is essential before exploring the smells and colors of the Raval neighborhood. Many tryupload to capture the moment we don't recommend it, but if you really want to give it a try, be sober!
Another free thing is to come and chat in the comments.
Did I miss something that seems obvious to you? Let me know in the comments below.
Likewise, if you have any questions about the information in this article or about your Barcelona vacation, that's what I'm here for!
Also, don't be afraid to join the discussion about Barcelona tips on my new Facebook group called “For City Lovers”. Here you can ask questions, voice your complaints, chat with other travelers and more - anything goes!
