How to Explore Barcelona Like a Local: 14 Uncommon Places to Visit Off the Beaten Path
If you’ve strolled down the bustling La Ramblas, marveled at the architectural wonders of Gaudí, and taken a walking tour around Gothic Quarter, then congratulations – you’ve experienced the iconic highlights of Barcelona! However, if you’re craving a more authentic and less tourist-trodden adventure, it’s time to set your sights on the lesser-known, off the beaten track wonders that the Catalonian capital has to offer. From tucked-away neighborhoods to quirky local haunts, the city’s offbeat destinations promise a fresh perspective that goes beyond the postcard-perfect scenes.
Top Hidden Gems to Explore Around Barcelona
Barcelona is one of those cities that are full of surprises, a place where hidden gems await those willing to wander beyond the well-trodden tourist spots – like a local. .If you’ve already ticked off the popular attractions and are yearning to get off the beaten path, here are 14 unusual things to do in Barcelona that promise just that!
Markets Galore
The most underrated ways to explore a city is by visiting the local markets that are brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, artisan crafts, and the amazing locals of Barcelona. Each of these markets offers a charm you won’t find in the rest of Barcelona.
Barcelona Flea Market (Market dels Encants)
In the heart of the tech center of Barcelona, lies Mercat dels Encants – a dynamic flea market in Barcelona that captures the essence of the city’s spirit. Wander through its labyrinth of stalls, and you are bound to discover everything from vintage treasures to contemporary crafts.
Address: C. de los Castillejos, 158, 08013 Barcelona (Plaza de las Glòries).
Sant Antoni Market
Food enthusiasts who live in Barcelona recommend the Saint Antoni Market, a heaven for those eager to explore the culinary wonders of the city. Amidst the vibrant stalls showcasing a kaleidoscope of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies, you will find yourself immersed in the sights, sounds, and scents of local gastronomy.
Address: Carrer del Comte d’Urgell, 1, 08011 Barcelona.
Santa Caterina Market
Meanwhile, tucked away in the El Born neighborhood, de Santa Caterina market is a visual spectacle, enticing with its undulating, colorful roof. This market is a trove of artisanal goods, and provides the best chance to see the city as you shop for fresh produce.
Address: Av. de Francesc Cambó, 16, 08003 Barcelona.
Barcelona Ghost Tours: Take a Spooky Stroll
Get ready for the authentic Barcelona with the Barcelona Ghost Tours! As the sun sets, these walking tours take you on a mysterious journey through the city’s streets, revealing stories that will send shivers down your spine.
Led by knowledgeable experts, the guided tours wind through dimly lit alleys, while sharing tales of ghosts, haunted places, and the unexplained. It’s not just about the supernatural – it’s a chance to explore the history from a unique and mysterious perspective.
As you tread through the mysterious corners of Barcelona, don’t forget to include Plaza Catalunya in your haunting adventures. These iconic squares serve as central hubs, where the city’s energy converges.
Parc del Laberint d’Horta
Tucked away in the foothills of the Serra de Collserola, the Laberint d’Horta (Horta Labyrinth) stands as a monumental representation of the city’s rich history.
Spanning an impressive 9 hectares, the park comprises two distinct sections: the neo-classical garden and the romantic garden. The neo-classical garden showcases 750 meters of meticulously trimmed cypress trees, creating a timeless atmosphere. Meanwhile, the romantic, beautiful garden captivates visitors with its botanical diversity, ornamental features, and a variety of architectural marvels including temples, water channels, and sculptures.
Here you can challenge your friends or family to navigate the centuries-old labyrinth in the heart of the park. Pack a picnic and unwind in the serene expanses, or embark on a photography expedition to capture the beauty that graces every corner.
Address: Passeig dels Castanyers, 1, 08035 Barcelona.
Palau de la Música Catalana
When you step into the Palau de la Música Catalana (Palace of Catalan Music), prepare yourself for one of the most unique experiences in Barcelona that are a feast for both the eyes and the ears. This architectural masterpiece, crafted by the renowned Lluís Domènech i Montaner (Who built also hospital sant pau), stands not only as a tribute to musical excellence but also as a dazzling representation of modernism – a movement that shaped the cultural landscape of Catalonia in the late 19th century.
As you traverse the Palau’s interior, even the smallest details come to life. From the ornate columns adorned with symbolic figures to the vibrant stained glass windows, every corner is a canvas of artistic expression.
When you reach the balcony, a special treat awaits. From this elevated perspective on the second floor, soak in a privileged view of the city extending all the way to the sea.
Addddress: C. Palau de la Música, 4-6, 08003 Barcelona.
Barcelona’s Silent Narratives
A visit to a cemetery is always a unique and reflective experience when you are visiting a historic city like Barcelona. It might seem a bit unusual, yet beyond the bustling streets and vibrant neighborhoods lie two distinctive resting places that echo the tales of the past—Montjuïc Cemetery and Poblenou Cemetery.
Montjuïc Cemetery
Nestled on Montjuic Hill, Montjuïc Cemetery sprawls across 56 hectares, resembling a tranquil miniature city within bustling Barcelona. Established in 1883, it houses the memories of notable figures like Francesc Macià, Isaac Albéniz, and Joan Miró. Visiting Montjuïc Cemetery is like exploring an open-air museum, where every grave is an intricate sculpture narrating a unique story, offering a captivating journey into the city’s rich history and culture.
Address: C/ de la Mare de Déu de Port, 56, 58, 08038 Barcelona.
Poblenou Cemetery
Poblenou Cemetery, in contrast, is a charming museum of funerary art, adorned with sculptures and serene corners. Destroyed by Napoleon’s troops in 1775, it rose from the ashes in 1819, thanks to the design by Italian architect Antonio Ginesi. The new cemetery is characterized by a sober neoclassical style with hints of Egyptian influence; a must-visit for anyone interested to discover Barcelona off the beaten way.
Address: Av. d’Icària, 204, 08005 Barcelona.
Ice Bar: A Cool Escape for Warm Days
As the Barcelona sun turns up the heat, don’t let it dim your explorer spirit; instead, plan a day trip at the Ice Bar. IceBarcelona is a unique and innovative concept that offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience in Barcelona of enjoying drinks in a bar made entirely of ice. The interior, including the walls, bar, and furniture, is made out of crystal-clear ice, creating an immersive and chilly atmosphere.
When you visit an ice bar, you can enjoy a selection of beverages served in ice glasses. The drinks menu often includes a variety of cocktails and non-alcoholic options.
Address: Pg. Marítim de la Barceloneta, 38A, 08005 Barcelon.
Explore Raval
In the vibrant city of Barcelona, where every alley holds secrets and stories, why follow the conventional path of the high street at Las Rambla?
Second-Hand Shops
When you explore Barcelona off the beaten way, venture into the overlooked world of underrated second-hand shops in the Raval neighborhood, starting your adventure on Ferlandina Street. Here, you can explore racks filled with retro clothing, classic accessories, and vintage treasures that tell intriguing tales of days gone by.
Macba – Museum of Contemporary Art
As you continue through the eclectic streets, delve into the heart of contemporary art at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA). This is one of the most underrated museums in Barcelona, designed by American architect Richard Meier; it serves as a beacon of modern art in the city. Inside, you will encounter a diverse collection of contemporary artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations.
Address: Plaça dels Àngels, 1, 08001 Barcelona.
CCCB – Contemporary cultural hub of Barcelona
Right next to Macba, the CCCB is a dynamic cultural hub housed in a historic building, seamlessly blending tradition and innovation, hosting exhibitions, events, talks, and performances that explore this unique marriage of culture and society.
Address: C/ de Montalegre, 5, 08001 Barcelona.
The Other Gaudí
While the Sagrada Familia remains a globally recognized masterpiece, there’s more to Antoni Gaudi’s genius waiting to be explored as you follow the beaten path in Barcelona.
Güell Palace
Explore the origins of Antoni Gaudí’s genius at Güell Palace, a groundbreaking project that marked the beginning of his collaboration with Eusebi Güell and the birth of modernism. As you explore this architectural marvel adorned with intricate ironwork and organic shapes inspired by nature, Güell Palace reveals itself as one of the Barcelona hidden gems waiting to be discovered just a minute walk from famous Las Ramblas.
Address: C/ Nou de la Rambla, 3-5, 08001 Barcelona.
Casa Vicens
Casa Vicens, hailed as Antoni Gaudí’s first masterpiece, is a symbol of his early architectural ingenuity. Located in the Gràcia neighborhood of Barcelona, this house is a unique blend of Moorish and Gothic influences. Its vibrant exterior, embellished with stunning tiles and whimsical turrets, stands as a departure from conventional architectural norms. The lush garden surrounding the house further adds to its overall charm.
Address: Carrer de les Carolines, 20-26, 08012 Barcelona.
Bellesguard
Perched atop the picturesque Collserola hills, Bellesguard in Barcelona is a captivating fusion of medieval and modernist aesthetics. This architectural gem, once a medieval castle, underwent a transformation by Antoni Gaudí, who infused the residence with his signature organic forms, seamlessly blending the old with the new. As the sun sets and Barcelona is bathed in the evening glow, Bellesguard is the embodiment of Gaudí’s innovative spirit.
Address: Carrer de Bellesguard, 20, 08022 Barcelona.
Güell Pavilions
Situated in the Pedralbes neighborhood of Barcelona, Güell Pavilions may stand in the shadow of Gaudí’s more celebrated works, but they are proof of his avant-garde architectural brilliance. Originally part of the city as an unrealized housing project, the pavilions showcase Gaudí’s innovative use of parabolic arches and ceramic embellishments, embodying his forward-thinking design language.
Address: Av. de Pedralbes, 7, 08034 Barcelona.
Sant Pau Hospital
Presently referred to as the “city within the city,” this hospital is one of my favorite hidden gems in Barcelona, and is one of those hidden places that only locals know about. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 for its “architectural uniqueness and artistic beauty,” this hospital complex is an ode to Catalan Modernism. Despite its medical origins, the hospital was designed to be more than a healing space – it was meant to be a retreat. Sitting in a calming, tree-lined environment, patients could recover amidst fresh air and serene surroundings.
The incorporation of medieval and Moorish architectural elements, often found in Catalan Modernism, bestows a unique charm upon the place, making it a noteworthy destination for those seeking to explore Barcelona off the beaten track.
Address: C/ de St. Antoni Maria Claret, 167, 08025 Barcelona.
Enjoy Breathtaking Views from a Height
Barcelona’s allure extends beyond its iconic architecture; it’s a city that hides treasures like the Bunkers del Carmel. Here, history unfolds beneath your feet as you capture the city’s enchantment from a breathtaking 360-degree vantage point, all in one remarkable spot:
Bunkers del Carmel
At a height of 262 meters, The Bunkers del Carmel is situated at the summit of Turó de la Rovira in the Carmel district. The Bunkers del Carmel, originally built during the Spanish Civil War, exude a historical charm, exclusive to Barcelona, Spain. This spot has become a favorite for those seeking panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks; one of the top places to visit in Barcelona we say!
A fun fact is that there has only ever been antiaircraft warfare and its installations on top of the Turó de la Rovira, despite the fact that the area is commonly known as “bunkers.”
Address: Carrer de Marià Labèrnia, s/n, 08032 Barcelona, Spain
Barceló Raval
One of the best ways to see any part of Barcelona is from a height! Your trip to Barcelona will be incomplete if you don’t explore the city to its fullest, and staying in Barcelona in Barcelo Raval offers you just that!
If you want to experience Barcelona’s culture in its purest form, its modern architecture and design, and a terrific rooftop experience, Barcelo Raval is the place to be! Get to the hotel’s rooftop and enjoy the iconic sights it offers while sipping on your favorite cocktail. You can also spot the famous Sagrada Familia and other famous buildings in Barcelona from here! Your visit in Barcelona won’t be complete without this rooftop travel experience!
Address: Rambla del Raval, 17, 21, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Torre Glòries
Calling all the thrill-seekers who are also eco-conscious travelers! That’s right! While the Torre Glories is an iconic skyscraper in Barcelona that stands out in the city’s skyline, it’s also a significant landmark because of its sustainable features. This is the best part about Torre Glories; it incorporates various eco-friendly elements to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.
From this skyscraper, you can enjoy Barcelona, and take in breathtaking views of the city, the Mediterranean Sea, the neighborhood in Barcelona, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a fantastic place to observe how the city is laid out and to enjoy its urban splendor and it offers the perfect landmark photo opportunity! The views of Barcelona at night from Torre Glories are unmatched.
Address: Av. Diagonal, 211, 08018 Barcelona, Spain
MOCO Museum
Discover the vibrant art scene in Barcelona with a visit to the MOCO Museum, an independent art haven that brings together modern, contemporary, and street art. Featuring iconic works by visionary artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Banksy, KAWS, Keith Haring, and Damien Hirst: the MOCO collection offers a captivating journey through artistic expression.
Nestled in the heart of Barcelona, next to the Picasso Museum, the MOCO Museum occupies the historic Cervelló Palace. This site, once the private residence of the Cervelló family, spans the Middle Ages to the 20th Century, embodying the rich history of Barcelona and hosting works that narrate tales of aristocrats, merchants, and royals.
Barcelona is known to be a cultural hub and the MOCO Museum brings an exciting and artistic flair, contributing to the city’s vibrant reputation.
Address: C/ de Montcada, 25, 08003 Barcelona.
Poble Espanyol: A Village within the City
Poble Espanyol is a distinctive open-air architectural museum that offers an incredible introduction to Barcelona and Spain. Conceived for the 1929 International Exposition, it was designed to showcase the diverse architectural styles and cultural richness of various regions across Spain, including iconic buildings in Catalunya.
The village features replicas of iconic buildings, streets, and squares from different Spanish communities. Today, Poble Espanyol continues to serve as a unique destination where visitors can wander through the charming streets, explore traditional crafts, and enjoy the ambiance of a Spanish village.
Address: Av. de Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13, 08038 Barcelona.
Monasterio de Pedralbes
If you’re on the lookout for more alternative things to do, try stepping into the serenity of Monasterio de Pedralbes next, a hidden gem in Barcelona that unveils the city’s medieval legacy. Founded in the 14th century and originally a residence for noblewomen, it now welcomes visitors to explore its well-preserved architectural wonders, including the Gothic church, cloisters, and the peaceful courtyard.
As part of your tour of Barcelona, consider including Monasterio de Pedralbes in your itinerary. It stands out among the numerous places in Barcelona, providing a unique glimpse into the city’s historic and medieval charm.
Address: Baixada del Monestir, 9, 08034 Barcelona.
Joan Maragall Gardens
Designed by the accomplished landscape architect Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier, Joan Maragall Gardens stands as a lush sanctuary in the Montjuic hill. Opened to the public in 1924, this botanical retreat was dedicated to Joan Maragall, a prominent Catalan poet and politician. The gardens, with their carefully curated greenery and scenic pathways, reflect the commitment of Barcelona to provide its residents a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the city’s natural beauty.
Open only on weekends.
Address: Av. de l’Estadi, 69, 08038 Barcelona.
Wrapping Up
Embark on a Barcelona adventure that reveals all the interesting things to do and see, taking you to alternative and hidden places away from the tourist crowds. So, the next time you come to visit Barcelona, set aside the guidebooks and itinerary, embrace curiosity, and explore the best-hidden gems from the streets of Barcelona.
