Unique Things To Do In Barcelona Spain
Park Güell
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Unique Places To See In Barcelona And Fun Things To Do
Looking for unique things to do in Barcelona, Spain? You’ve come to the right place. I recently returned from Barcelona and absolutely fell in love with the city. Below I’ll detail some of my favorite tours, hidden gems in Barcelona, top tourist places, and a few things off the beaten path. No matter how popular they may be, all of these are uniquely Barcelona experiences.
While there are a ton of unique things to do in Barcelona it’s important to remember that when you travel to Barcelona you can’t forget to experience the local food. This may be my favorite thing about the city. Don’t worry, I will be doing a whole post just about the food, but I wanted to tease how incredible it truly is. Do stop for tapas in between all your Barcelona sightseeing.
Before we jump into the actual things to do I need to say how important it is that you book as many of your tours and tickets as early as possible. There are a lot of cool things to do in Barcelona, but they fill up quickly. I’m not a big planner when I travel and I was shocked to see how many things were sold out leading up to my trip. I had to scurry to grab available slots for a lot of these sites. Barcelona is definitely a city where you need to do a large amount of planning ahead, particularly if you visit during the busy season. I’ll provide links below so you can easily book your tours.
Now on to the unique things to do!
Front view of Sagrada familia
The Sagrada Familia is a renowned basilica located in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. Architect Antoni Gaudí designed this iconic landmark, with construction commencing in 1882 and still ongoing to this day. Blending Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, the Sagrada Familia boasts a unique and impressive architectural design that continues to fascinate visitors from around the world.
This may be the single most stunning building I have ever set foot in, church or otherwise.
Massive Columns inside sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia is the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world. The church is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, The Works of Antoni Gaudi.
Its intricate facade, towering spires, and breathtaking interior will blow you away. Despite being unfinished, the basilica serves as a testament to Gaudí's limitless creativity and stands out as perhaps the most must-see tourist spot in Barcelona.
Stained glass windows of Sagrada familia
Relying solely on private donations, Sagrada Família's construction has been a slow process. The construction which began in 1882 was interrupted by the Spanish Civil War, fires set by anarchists, and Antoni Gaudi’s tragic accidental death in a street car accident. In March 2024, an updated forecast stated completion of the building is estimated for 2034.
Still, you can tour the interior of the impressive building and wander the stunning exterior. And remember, your entrance fee helps fund the completion.
Front exterior of Sagrada Familia
It’s extremely important that you book your tickets for Sagrada Familia early as this is one of the most popular things to see in Barcelona. It sells out days in advance. Also, get there early on the day of your tour. The area is packed with tourists and it can take some time to find your tour group. If you get there late, they will leave without you. I say this as someone who nearly missed their tour despite my efforts to be there 15 minutes early.
Rear exterior of Sagrada Familia
Accessibility: When using a wheelchair, you find the entrance on the cathedral’s backside on the street called: Carrer Sardenya. A staff member will help you get inside by opening the gate and leading you to the turnstiles. Once inside, everything is completely flat and smooth, and the wheelchair route is the same for people on foot.
Wheelchair users cannot go up to the towers. However, the towers are not part of the regular tour so, this was not an issue. There are elevators to access the towers. However, to access the elevators, you need to take several steps — inherited from a time when accessibility standards were much different than today. Luckily, even from the ground floor, the church’s beauty is still extraordinary and very much worth a visit.
There are wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
Location: C/ de Mallorca, 401, L'Eixample, 08013 Barcelona, Spain
Front exterior view of Casa Battló
2. Casa Battló
Casa Battló is a renowned building located in the heart of Barcelona, Spain. It’s one of the top Barcelona sites to visit and for good reason. The building is another of Gaudi’s masterpieces. This modernist masterpiece is known for its unique facade and intriguing design elements.
Interior of Casa Battló
The building features twisted columns, undulating walls, colorful mosaic tiles, and an arched roof that resembles the back of a dragon. Casa Battló stands as a testament to Gaudí's creativity and innovative approach to architecture, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its distinctive beauty and intricate details. Again, this location is super popular so, make sure to get your Casa Battló ticket well ahead of time. These are timed entry tickets. I highly recommend purchasing first tour of the day tickets to Casa Battló to beat the crowds as it can be difficult to navigate the interior once the masses descend.
Rooftop aka Dragon’s back of Casa Battló
Accessibility: Casa Battló has an elevator that reaches the roof terrace making the building accessible to wheelchair users.
Location: Pg. de Gràcia, 43, L'Eixample, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
Front street view of Casa Vicens
3. Casa Vicens
Another one of the top places to visit in Barcelona, Spain, Casa Vicens is a notable work of architecture designed by Antoni Gaudí. It was built between 1883 and 1885 as a private residence and is considered one of the first buildings of Art Nouveau and a precursor to the modernist movement in architecture. I know you’re probably saying, “Come on Jenn, ANOTHER Gaudi building?!” But they’re all so impossibly unique and impressive that I recommend seeing as many as possible.
Rear exterior and gardens of Casa Vicens
The facade of Casa Vicens showcases a variety of architectural elements, including intricate ceramic tiles, ornate ironwork, and decorative motifs inspired by nature. The place is positively loaded with beautiful plants in the outside garden.
Ceiling of Casa Vicens
The interior of the house features vibrant colors, geometric patterns, and a mix of traditional Spanish and Moorish architectural styles. Today, Casa Vicens is open to the public as a museum, allowing visitors to explore its unique blend of art, architecture, and design.
Be forewarned, that you will need to bring your own headphones for the tour. Lots of people don’t and it can get quite annoying to listen to the tour track from 20 different phones all at a different point in the tour. You will definitely want to bring your own if only to drown out the noise.
Accessibility: Casa Vicans is wheelchair-accessible with an elevator to reach the rooftop and upper floor.
Location: Carrer de les Carolines, 20-26, Gràcia, 08012 Barcelona, Spain
The bottom of Park Güell
4. Park Güell
Park Güell is a public park system designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. (I’m sure you’ve heard of him.) The park was built between 1900 and 1914 and was officially opened as a public park in 1926. It showcases Gaudí's unique architectural style, characterized by organic shapes, vibrant colors, and intricate details.
Originally built to be a housing for the fabulously wealthy, the fabulously wealthy rejected the small plot size and only 3 people ended up having homes built on the land… Gaudi included.
Large Columns at Park Güell
The park offers panoramic views of the city and features mosaic-covered benches, gingerbread house-like buildings, and the famous mosaic lizard sculpture known as "El Drac." Park Güell is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is another super popular tourist destination in Barcelona.
You will need to purchase a tour of Park Güell to gain entrance. The tour is a little over an hour and you are free to explore the park on your own once it ends.
Accessibility: Most of the parts of Park Güell are accessible by wheelchair. Nevertheless, there are some areas that could be quite difficult to reach for people with disabilities. One example is walking downhill through the park, which can be challenging for disabled visitors. The tour does start at the top of the park, but it does require you to walk downhill.
Address: Gràcia, 08024 Barcelona, Spain
Sant Pau
5. Sant Pau
One of the best kept secrets in Barcelona, Sant Pau, also known as the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site, is a stunning complex designed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner. This modernist masterpiece served as a hospital for a century before being transformed into a cultural and tourism center. The intricate and colorful mosaic work on the buildings' façades is a sight to behold, showcasing the beauty of Catalan Art Nouveau architecture.
Today, visitors can explore the various pavilions, gardens, and exhibition spaces that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site, gaining insight into both the history of healthcare in Barcelona and the architectural legacy of Lluís Domènech i Montaner.
Accessibility: The Sant Pau tour is wheelchair-accessible. Access to the different visitor spaces is adapted using ramps and elevators with buttons with visual numbering, in braille and in high relief.
Sant Pau has two loan wheelchairs for visitors who need them. Just ask the staff when you arrive.
Address: C/ de St. Antoni Maria Claret, 167, Horta-Guinardó, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
Flamenco dancers on stage
6. See A Flamenco Show
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Barcelona at night, why not check out a Flamenco show? A Flamenco show in Barcelona offers a vibrant experience filled with passionate music, intense rhythms, and captivating dance performances. The combination of soul-stirring music and powerful choreography creates an unforgettable atmosphere that immerses the audience in the rich cultural heritage of Spain. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or visiting Barcelona for the first time, witnessing a Flamenco show is a must-do activity that will leave you clapping for more.
Exterior of The Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art
7. The Barcelona Museum Of Contemporary Art
Located in the heart of Barcelona, the Museum of Contemporary Art, also known as MACBA, is a renowned cultural institution showcasing an impressive collection of contemporary artworks. The museum's striking modern architecture serves as a fitting backdrop for the diverse range of exhibitions and installations that it houses.
With a focus on contemporary art from the latter half of the 20th century onwards, MACBA provides visitors with a thought-provoking and immersive experience that highlights the evolution of artistic expression in recent decades.
Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious about exploring modern art, a visit to the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art is a great way to spend the afternoon.
Accessibility: MACBA has ramps and elevators that connect the different floors and rest areas with seats and folding chairs. It also has adapted toilets. The museum has two wheelchairs for visitors that can be requested at the Museum reception.
Location: Plaça dels Àngels, 1, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Exterior of the Picasso Museum
8. The Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum in Barcelona is a renowned art institution that showcases the work of legendary artist Pablo Picasso. Situated in the heart of the city, the museum features an extensive collection of Picasso's early sketches, paintings, and sculptures. Visitors can explore the evolution of Picasso's unique style and artistic vision through the various periods of his career represented in the museum's galleries.
The museum offers an insightful journey into the creative mind of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and culture aficionados alike.
Again, get your Picasso Museum tickets early. They were completely sold out during my stay in Barcelona.
Accessibility: The Museum is wheelchair-accessible. Wheelchairs are available for those visitors requiring one. Just ask the staff at the museum entrance. Visitors with reduced mobility or wheelchairs may use the elevator.
Location: C/ de Montcada, 15-23, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
The World Begins With Every Kiss
9. The World Begins With Every Kiss Mural
The World Begins With Every Kiss mural or “El món neix en cada besada” is a captivating masterpiece that invites viewers into a world of emotion and connection. Made up of thousands of photos of people depicting life in Barcelona, the mural portrays a couple locked in a passionate kiss.
Catalan photographer Joan Fontcuberta asked readers of El Periódico newspaper to send him photographs depicting their moments of freedom. Fontcuberta and ceramicist Toni Cumella then printed 4,000 of these personal shots onto mosaics, arranging them by color and density so that, from afar, the 26-foot-tall mural shows two people kissing.
The mural was meant to be a temporary exhibit, but it was such a hit, it’s remained up since 2014.
Accessibility: The area is wheelchair accessible, paved, and flat.
Location: Carrer dels Capellans, 16, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
A large mural in Barcelona
10. Take A Street Art Tour
Explore Barcelona's vibrant street art scene with a guided tour through the city's colorful neighborhoods. Discover hidden gems and prominent murals while learning about the history and significance of street art in Barcelona. Immerse yourself in the creative energy of local artists as you wander through charming streets lined with striking graffiti and vibrant urban art. Don't miss this opportunity to experience Barcelona's artistic soul through its dynamic street art culture.
The tour is also a bit of a locals guide to Barcelona as you’ll explore the streets and their art with a local artist. Our guide was kind enough to not only give us a phenomenal tour but also give us a great list of gastronomic hidden gems in Barcelona, Spain.
The Barcelona street art tour is wheelchair-accessible.
Mercado de la Boqueria
11. Mercado de La Boqueria
Mercado de La Boqueria is a vibrant and iconic food market located in the heart of Las Ramblas. Established in the 13th century, it offers a wide array of fresh produce, meats, seafood, cheeses, and other local delicacies. Visitors can immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere, sampling traditional Spanish dishes like jamón ibérico and paella, or simply wander through the stalls admiring the colorful displays. With its rich history and dynamic energy, Mercado de La Boqueria is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Barcelona.
We stopped here for lunch and breakfast on several occasions since our hotel was in Las Ramblas and always found something tasty.
Accessibility: The Market is flat and paved making it wheelchair accessible. However, it is incredibly busy, especially at lunch, so it can be difficult to navigate.
Location: La Rambla, 91, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Camp Nou
12. Camp Nou
Camp Nou is the largest stadium in Spain and home to FC Barcelona. Located in Barcelona, it has a seating capacity of over 99,000 spectators. The stadium offers guided tours where visitors can explore the field, locker rooms, and the FC Barcelona Museum. Camp Nou is a must-visit for football fans looking to delve into the rich history and atmosphere of this iconic venue.
If you’re looking for what to do in Barcelona, Spain at night, why not check out a game?
the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona
13. Wander The Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is a historic neighborhood known for its winding medieval streets, Gothic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça del Rei, and the lively La Rambla street.
The area is also home to charming cafes, boutique shops, and hidden squares waiting for you to explore. Steeped in history and atmosphere, the Gothic Quarter offers a glimpse into Barcelona's past while providing a vibrant setting for modern-day adventures. This is a great place to plan your own free walking tour of Barcelona.
Paella
14. Take a Spanish Cooking Class
Taking a Spanish cooking class in Barcelona is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and learn about traditional Spanish cuisine firsthand. Barcelona is known for its rich gastronomic heritage, and exploring it through a cooking class can provide a unique and memorable experience.
From preparing paella to mastering the art of making Spanish tapas, you'll have the opportunity to enhance your culinary skills while discovering the flavors that define this vibrant city. If you’re looking for stuff to do in Barcelona, why not experience a slice of Barcelona life with a cooking class?
Chardonnay poured for a wine tasting
15. Enjoy A Wine Tasting
Visiting Barcelona offers the unique opportunity to indulge in a rich wine culture. Experience a wine-tasting session in Barcelona's renowned wineries to savor the flavors of Spanish wines.
With expert sommeliers as guides, you can sample a variety of local wines, learn about the winemaking process, and appreciate the distinct characteristics of each wine. Hear about the grapes, get tips on tasting techniques, and enjoy several food pairings.
You don’t have to be a wine expert to appreciate the delicious variety of Spanish wine.
Pyrenees Mountains in Andorra
Looking For A Day Trip?
There are two day trips from Barcelona that I recommend. The first is a trip to 3 countries in one day. On this excursion, you’ll explore Baga a small village in northern Spain, Ax Les Thermes, France, a small village in southern France, and Andorra, a postage stamp-sized country in the middle of the Pyrenees Mountains. It’s worth it for those of you who love checking off countries visited as Andorra has no international airport and you’re not likely to be in the neighborhood again.
For me, the highlights were actually the two smaller villages. Come hungry because breakfast in Baga (plenty of gluten-free options) and lunch in Ax Les Thermes are not to be missed. You’ll also want to soak your feet in the healing hot springs in Ax Les Thermes. Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair-accessible.
The second day trip I recommend is a tour of Montserrat. On this tour, you’ll Admire sweeping panoramic views of Catalonia from the top of the mountain, visit the 11th-century Benedictine Monastery, take an exciting funicular railway ride to reach the top of the mountain, browse the local markets and go on a short hike to enjoy the natural beauty of Monserrat's nature park. This tour is wheelchair-accessible.
Over the altar of Sagrada Familia
Final Word On Unique Things To Do In Barcelona Spain
Barcelona is filled with exciting things to see and do. Many of these are completely unique to this city and easily accessible to wheelchair users. You could easily spend days exploring the architecture of Gaudi alone.
Have you been to Barcelona? What were your favorite parts? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
