Unusual Things to Do in Barcelona:
20 Unique Activities

Barcelona is famed for its iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell, but there’s a hidden side to this vibrant city that’s brimming with unique experiences.

As someone who has explored Barcelona multiple times, I’ve unearthed a treasure trove of activities that go beyond the typical tourist trail.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, join me as we delve into the quirky, the unusual, and the downright fascinating sides of Barcelona that few get to see. Ready to uncover the city’s best-kept secrets? Let’s dive in!

Historical Oddities

1. The Labyrinth Park of Horta

The Labyrinth Park of Horta is one of Barcelona’s hidden gems. The oldest garden in the city, it dates back to the early 1800s and was opened to the public in 1971. Originally opened as a park, it had a complete overhaul in 1994 and is now more of a museum garden.

The park is home to decadent neoclassical features. There are mythological sculptures depicting Ancient Greek and Roman deities, Tuscan columns, topiary art, and beautiful fountains, all of which give the park an opulent feel.

The park’s most unusual historical attraction is the Horta Maze. This hedge maze invites visitors to explore and get lost in its seemingly never-ending pathways. It is a great activity for an afternoon in Barcelona especially if you have children.

2. Hospital de Sant Pau

Anyone visiting Barcelona will be familiar with the work of Gaudí. You may have visited the Sagrada Familia or one of the lesser-known Gaudí works such as Casa Vicens or Torre Bellesguard. However, there is much more to Barcelona’s architectural scene than the great man himself.

Located in the El Guinardó district, the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site, also known as Hospital de Sant Pau, is a stunning example of Catalan modernist architecture in the city. Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, it was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site alongside the Palau de la Música Catalana.

One of the hidden historical sites in Barcelona that tourists often miss, the complex is made of 12 pavilions connected through underground passages, set in luscious greenery. It was a fully functioning hospital until 2009 but has since been restored and reopened as a museum in 2014.

The pavilions each have a unique theme and feature intricate facades with ceramic tiles and colourful mosaics. Inside you will find impressive sculptures and stunning stained glass windows. The building is one of the most aesthetically pleasing hospital buildings in the world.

If you’re looking to explore more of Barcelona’s modernist architectural style aside from its major players such as the Sagrada Familia, the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site will be right up your street.

Unique Museums

3. Museu del Perfum

For those looking for an unusual museum in the city, look no further than the Museu del Perfum. This small museum located in the Eixample district of the city is Barcelona’s perfume museum.

With a collection of over 5,000 perfume-related items, this quirky museum provides a veritable fragrance history. The collection spans from ancient times to the present day. There are artefacts from Egypt, Greece, Rome, and various European eras, all the way to the present day.

Some of the more notable items are ancient Egyptian alabaster perfume jars, Roman glass vials and ornate 18^th-century French perfume bottles. You will also see scent bottles from modern renowned designers such as Chanel and Dior.

Unlike other museums, the museum’s prime sense of exploration is smell, making the Museu del Perfum one of the more fun and unusual things to do in Barcelona.

Find out why Barcelona is one of my top recommendations for a first time trip to Spain by reading my post 20 Best Places To Visit In Spain For First-Timers.

4. Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum

Another of the unique museums in Barcelona is the Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum. Dedicated to the history and various uses of hemp and cannabis, the museum is located in a 15^th-century palace in the Gothic Quarter. It is a great option for an offbeat cultural activity in Barcelona.

The museum features a collection of over 12,000 items exploring the history and uses of cannabis as well as delving into cannabis culture. There are artefacts dating back to ancient times and touches on textiles, science, and contemporary art, showing the diverse uses of the cannabis plant.

The museum aims to educate the public about the historical significance and potential benefits of cannabis with interactive displays and multimedia, offering insights into the global history of cannabis prohibition.

If you’re looking for an alternative place to visit in Barcelona, the Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum will be the perfect place to visit.

Quirky Attractions

5. The Kiss Wall

Situated within walking distance of the cathedral is one of the more unique art installations in Barcelona. ‘El Beso de Joan Fontcuberta’, also known as ‘The Kiss Wall’, is a mural depicting a giant kiss.

The kiss mural was made by Joan Fontcuberta, renowned for his innovative approach to photography. For this installation, he collected a huge number of photos of people kissing from various sources.

Fontcuberta then digitally stitched them together to create a huge mosaic depicting a larger image of the kiss. Exploring themes of love, intimacy and human connection, this unusual tourist attraction is one of the best pieces of hidden art in Barcelona.

So take your loved one and have your photo taken right in front of The Kiss Wall for a memorable souvenir.

6. Cementiri de Montjuïc

My next recommendation is one of the weirder things to see in Barcelona. You’re on vacation and the last thing you want to be reminded of is death. However, Montjuïc Cemetery is one of the more unusual things to do in Barcelona.

Located on the southwestern edge of the city, the cemetery offers a scenic spot overlooking the Mediterranean and offers stunning views of the city. It is a lush green area, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city.

Similar to La Recoleta cemetery in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the cemetery is renowned for its elaborate mausoleums, chapels, and sculptures, many of which were created by prominent Catalan artists and architects. Visiting this unusual cemetery, you’ll be greeted by stained glass windows and ornate ironwork, depicting the wealth and status of the individuals buried there.

The cemetery is also the final resting place of many notable Catalans including the Cataln architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner (creator of the Sant Pau Architect Site) and Joan Miró, the famous Surrealist Catalan artist.

This scenic cemetery is free to visit with guided tours offered for those wanting to learn more about the history of the site.

Hidden Neighbourhoods

7. El Poblenou’s Street Art

Once an industrial area filled with factories and warehouses, Poblenou has undergone significant development over the past few decades and has now become one of Barcelona’s most trendy and artistic districts.

One of the best alternative places to visit in Barcelona, Poblenou’s street art is renowned as some of the best in the city. Its extensive street art ranges from large murals, graffiti and installations adorning buildings, warehouses, and public spaces. Spending an afternoon in Poblenou will make you feel like you’ve discovered one of Barcelona’s hidden gems.

Start your exploration at Carrer de Pere IV, famous for being lined with impressive murals. You can then head to the Poblenou Urban District, the heart of the creative scene with numerous art studios, galleries, and co-working spaces. Finish your tour at the Parc del Centre del Poblenou, a park with various art installations and murals.

There are guided tours available, or you can explore at your own pace, discovering one of Barcelona’s best hidden neighbourhoods.

8. Sarrià’s Village Feel

For those looking for a village atmosphere amid a big city, head to Sarrià. Originally a separate village outside Barcelona, Sarrià is now a charming neighbourhood located in the upper part of the city.

Known for its village atmosphere, Sarrià Barcelona is characterised by its narrow streets, small squares, and traditional Catalan architecture. You’ll find a variety of boutique shops, gourmet food stores and independent businesses, making it the perfect destination for shopping and dining.

Sarrià’s local neighbourhood feel is enhanced by its friendly vibe with locals taking pride in their cultural heritage. The district is surrounded by parks and green spaces including Parc de la Oreneta and Parc del Laberint d’Horta, making it the perfect place to explore alongside the Horta Labyrinth.

The centrepiece of the neighbourhood is the Sant Vicenç de Sarrià Church, a 14th-century Gothic church with an iconic bell tower. Coupled with local markets and plazas, you’ve got the perfect district for a more local experience of Barcelona.

Local Experiences

9. Attend a Castellers Practice

There is nothing better when visiting Spain than seeing some of the quirky local traditions. Each region has its festivals and traditions, and Barcelona is no different!

One of Catalonia’s most intriguing traditions is the art of Castellers, or human towers. The practice originated in Catalonia in the late 18^th century and was initially performed as part of religious festivals and other celebrations.

Over the years, the tradition of castells has evolved into a competitive tradition with teams practising and performing intricate tower formations at festivals and events across Catalonia. As the capital of the Catalonia region, Barcelona is the perfect place to witness this incredible tradition.

A castell consists of multiple tiers of people standing on each other’s shoulders. The base of the tower is made up of multiple people, providing stability and support and culminates with a child, known as the anxaneta, climbing to the top and raising their hands.

People attend their local Castellers practice regularly with it being a vital part of Catalan identity and community. The human towers are a sight to behold and provide a unique and authentic local experience when visiting Barcelona.

10. Flamenco at a Hidden Tablao

Whilst flamenco did not originate in Barcelona, anyone on their first visit to Spain should try and take in a flamenco show. The tradition originated in the south of Spain in Andalusia but has spread across the country becoming a symbol of the country.

Given Barcelona’s reputation for cultural diversity, you can find some good authentic flamenco within the city. There are several venues offering a variety of different takes on the famous genre and where you choose will depend on your preferences.

Here are two of my favourites:

• Los Tarantos – Located in Plaça Reial, Los Tarantos is one of the oldest flamenco venues in Barcelona. It offers nightly performances featuring a mix of established and emerging flamenco artists, making it a great place to experience the raw energy of flamenco.
• Tablao de Carmen – Situated in the Poble Espanyol open-air museum, Tablao de Carmen pays tribute to the legendary flamenco dancer Carmen Amaya. The venue offers an authentic flamenco experience with dinner options in a traditional Spanish setting.

Wherever you choose will surely be a memorable experience of your time in Barcelona.

Offbeat Culinary Adventures

11. Drink in a Speakeasy Bar

Is there anything cooler than going to a new city and discovering a speakeasy bar that is hidden away? In the age of TikTok, it is much harder to find these hidden bars without them being plastered all over social media. However, there is still a thrill in entering a bar from behind a hidden door.

Barcelona has its fair share of speakeasy bars and hidden restaurants offering unique drinking and dining experiences. A trip to the city offers the perfect opportunity to get your speakeasy vibes on.

Although I feel like I’m breaking a rule here by giving away the locations of these bars, here are 3 recommendations for Barcelona’s best secret bars and restaurants:

• El Paradiso – One of the most famous speakeasy Barcelona bars, it is hidden behind a pastrami bar in the El Born district of Barcelona. The entrance is through a refrigerator door in a deli called Pastrami Bar. Expect sophisticated cocktails with inventive drinks.
• Dr Stravinsky – Offering a laboratory and mixology vibe, this hidden Gothic Quarter bar serves up unique cocktails with a retro aesthetic. There is a limited food menu which pairs well with the drinks.
• Bobby’s Free – Another quirky disguise, Bobby’s Free is disguised as a classic barbershop. Also located in the Gothic Quarter, you enter through a barber shop façade and find a 1920s Prohibition-era themed bar.

12. Vermouth Tasting in a Hidden Bar

Vermouth has a rich history in Barcelona. Known as ‘vermut’ in Catalan, the drink is a an integral part of the city’s social identity. Locals traditionally gather for ‘la hora del vermut’, a time to relax with a glass of vermouth before lunch or dinner.

Given Barcelona’s deep connection with the drink, it is the perfect place to expand your vermouth palette and try some of the best vermouth in the world. The drink has also undergone somewhat of a cultural revival in recent years with many new bars and restaurants embracing the drink.

Those looking for a unique experience should head to one of the hidden bars. Here are some of my suggestions:

• ELDISET – Located in the El Born district synonymous with good food and drink, El Diset specialises in vermouth and tapas. There is a wide range of vermouths on offer from all regions of Spanish, perfectly paired with delicious snacks.
• Bar Calders – Bar Calders is in the Sant Antoni neighbourhood of Barcelona. Its charming, hidden atmosphere makes it the perfect place for vermouth tasting. It has an extensive vermouth selection and is the ideal spot to unwind and enjoy vermouth like a local.
• La Vermu – Though not technically a hidden bar, La Vermu is one of Barcelona’s best-kept secrets. Located in the cool Gràcia neighbourhood, it offers a curated selection of vermouths and other aperitifs. With its laid-back atmosphere, it is the perfect spot for vermouth tasting.

Unusual Outdoor Activities

13. Kayaking to the Forum

For those looking for alternative outdoor activities, Barcelona has everything you need. The city is blessed with some beautiful beaches such as Barceloneta and Playa Mar Bella amongst others. Spending a day at the beach is a great way to spend a summer day.

However, if you’re looking for more of a unique outdoor activity, why not go kayaking?! With the perfect blend of adventure and scenic views, it offers a different perspective of the city’s coastline.

A popular route is starting at one of Barcelona’s beaches. You can rent kayaks or join a guided tour from Barceloneta. As you kayak north, you’ll pass the Olympic Port before passing popular beaches such as Bogatell and Mar Bella.

Paddling along the coast you will eventually reach Parc del Fòrum. This public space located in the Sant Martí district of the city was originally developed in 2004 and has since become a key venue for events and outdoor activities.

Take your time exploring the contemporary sculptures in the park and have a relaxing time before making your way back along the coast.

If you are not a fan of big crowds, consider visiting Barcelona in shoulder season. Check out my post with my top recommendations for a trip to Barcelona in October.

14. Cycling Through Collserola Park

If kayaking isn’t your thing, how about some cycling? Collserola Park is one of Barcelona’s best-kept secrets and is perfect for an outdoor adventure. Located just outside the city, it is one of the best non-touristy things to do in Barcelona.

Collserola Park is a massive natural area that covers over 8,000 hectares, making it one of the largest metropolitan parks in the world. It is rich in biodiversity, with dense forests, rolling hills and a variety of plants and animals.

There are various cycling routes for you to choose from, all with varying degrees of difficulty. Check out these three below:

• Carretera de las Aigües – The most popular route. It is a relatively flat 9-kilometer-long trail offering spectacular panoramic views of both Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea.
• Tibidabo Route – For those wanting more of a challenge, this route takes you up to Tibidabo Mountain. Here you can visit the Tibidabo Amusement Park. Whilst the climb is challenging, you are rewarded with stunning views at the top.
• Vallvidrera Reservoir Loop – A shorter route, this scenic route loops around the Vallvidrera Reservoir. Expect lush landscapes and a serene atmosphere.

Unique Shopping Experiences

15. Els Encants Vells Flea Market

Els Encants Vells Flea Market is amongst the oldest and most iconic of Barcelona’s flea markets. Located near the Glòries Tower not too far from the Sagrada Familia, it is the perfect place for vintage shopping.

The vibrant market is a treasure trove for bargain hunters, collectors and those looking for unique finds. There is a diverse range of goods including antiques, clothing, electronics, books, records and other household items.

On Mondays, Wednesdays and Friday, Els Encants Vells hosts a public auction. It provides visitors with the chance to bid on various goods often at attractive prices.

As well as goods to buy, there are stalls and small restaurants serving local cuisines, making it the ideal place to spend a few hours. The market is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

16. Olokuti

Olokuti is a unique and vibrant concept store in the heart of Barcelona’s Gràcia neighbourhood. Those looking for an eco and sustainable shopping experience will be right at home here.

Stepping into Olokuti feels like entering a world where sustainability meets creativity, as the store showcases an eclectic mix of eco-friendly fashion, homeware, and gifts sourced from local artisans and international fair trade cooperatives.

From stylish clothing made from organic and recycled materials to handcrafted jewellery and accessories, every item at Olokuti tells a story of ethical production and mindful consumption.

The store’s cosy and inviting atmosphere invites visitors to browse at their leisure, discover hidden gems, and support sustainable practices while indulging in a truly memorable shopping experience.

Architectural Wonders

17. The Palau de la Música Catalana

Another masterpiece of modernist architecture, the Palau de la Música Catalana is a breathtaking concert hall. Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, who also designed the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

The exterior is adorned with intricate mosaics, sculptures and stained glass with ornate busts of famous composers like Beethoven and Bach.

The interior more than matches the exterior’s opulence. The lavishly decorated concert hall features a large stained glass skylight, intricate carvings and more mosaics. The hall was designed with excellent acoustics in mind and offers an immersive visual experience.

Visitors can explore the Palau through guided tours which explain the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the building. The Palau also hosts an array of concerts with a program including classical music, opera, jazz, and traditional Catalan music.

Concert tickets can sell out very quickly so if you are planning on visiting for a concert, make sure you book your tickets in advance.

18. Sant Felip Neri Square

Sant Felip Neri Square is an oasis of peace and tranquillity in the heart of the city. Located in the Gothic Quarter, it is one of the best-hidden squares in Barcelona and a historical site worth visiting.

The square sits on the site of a medieval cemetery. The Church of Sant Felip Neri, which gives the square its name, was built in the 18^th century and is Baroque in style.

Looking closely at the walls of the church, you will notice they are pockmarked. This was the result of a tragic bombing in 1938 during the Spanish Civil War which resulted in the deaths of many civilians including children from a nearby school. The bullet holes and shrapnel marks serve as a sombre reminder of Barcelona’s past.

With its central fountain and secluded feel, the square offers a quiet and contemplative atmosphere. There is a small café where you can spot and take in the historical ambience.

The square is a popular setting used in many films, most notably Vicky Cristina Barcelona. It also attracts photographers, looking for a peaceful and historic setting in the midst of Barcelona’s hustle and bustle.

Unusual Art Installations

19. El Cap de Barcelona

Not one of Barcelona’s hidden art installations, ‘El Cap de Barcelona’ is nevertheless one of Barcelona’s more unusual art installations. It is a fantastic piece of artwork that immediately draws your attention.

El Cap de Barcelona translates as The Head of Barcelona and is an eye-catching sculpture situated at Plaça del Port Olímpic, near the Barcelona waterfront. The sculpture was created by American pop artist Roy Lichtenstein and commissioned for the 1992 Summer Olympics that were held in the city.

The sculpture is about 50 feet tall and features Lichtenstein’s signature comic strip style. The playful appearance features bold lines, bright colours, and the artist’s signature use of dots.

Despite being created by a non-Catalan, the artwork references Gaudí’s famous mosaic techniques, tying modern pop art with Barcelona’s traditional art style.

The piece of artwork helped announce Barcelona as a global city in the early 90s and is a fantastic piece of art to go and see when exploring the Olympic area of the city.

20. Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

One of my favourite sights in Barcelona, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is an amazing spectacle. Whilst the area itself is famous, the fountain is one of Barcelona’s lesser-known attractions compared with the likes of the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell.

The fountain sits on Montjuïc hill overlooking the Plaça d’Espanya. After making your way up the hill (don’t worry there are escalators!), you reach the majestic fountain. It is impressive in its own right but on an evening during the weekend is when the real magic happens.

The fountain provides evening shows to visitors on Thursdays to Saturdays in the summer period (June to September) and on Fridays and Saturdays in the winter period (October to May). The Magic Fountain offers spectacular light and music shows and is a real must-see for visitors.

Shows run around every half-hour in the evening and are free to watch. Just make sure you get there early to get a good view. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink with friends and is one of the more alternative outdoor activities in Barcelona.

Note: As of June 2024, the Magic Fountain at Montjuic is currently not functioning due to drought restrictions in place in Barcelona and Catalonia. There are currently no plans to re-fill the fountains but keep checking back for updates.

Map: 20 Unusual Things To Do In Barcelona

FAQs

What shouldn’t you miss in Barcelona?

What you shouldn’t miss in Barcelona depends on what you are looking for and how many times you have visited the city. If this is your first time, don’t miss the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell, two of Gaudí’s most iconic architectural masterpieces. Whilst full of tourists, they more than merit their reputation.

For those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, any of these experiences will provide an unforgettable time in the city.

What do locals in Barcelona do for fun?

Locals in Barcelona enjoy a diverse range of activities for fun. Given the Mediterranean climate, many locals enjoy spending time outdoors, whether lounging on the city’s beaches or strolling through picturesque parks.

Socialising is a big part of Barcelona life with many cafés, tapas bars and lively squares offering places to hang out with friends. There are also numerous cultural events around the city for locals to enjoy.

Finally, sport plays a significant role in the lives of many locals. FC Barcelona and RCD Espanyol are based in the city regularly attracting big crowds. Heading down to the beach you’ll find people playing volleyball and participating in outdoor yoga sessions.

Where do locals hang out in Barcelona?

Locals in Barcelona hang out in various spots in the city. With the pleasant weather, you’ll often find them relaxing at neighbourhood cafés and bars. Areas like Gràcia, El Born and Poble Sec are popular with locals. Parks such as Parc de la Ciutadella and Montjuïc are popular for picnics, sports and outdoor gatherings.

What is Barcelona’s biggest attraction?

Barcelona’s biggest attraction is the Sagrada Familia. Visited by over three and a half million visitors in 2022, the church is a phenomenal work of architecture. It has come to be recognised as symbolic of the city of Barcelona.

Due to its popularity, the Sagrada Familia does not feature on this list but you can find out more information about the Sagrada Familia including how to buy tickets by checking out my posts on 2 Days in Barcelona and Barcelona in October.

Final Thoughts: Unusual Things to Do in Barcelona: 20 Unique Activities for an Unforgettable Trip

There you have it! 20 unique activities for an unforgettable trip to Barcelona. From interesting architecture to quirky shopping and offbeat culinary adventures, Barcelona has much to offer its visitors.

Whilst attractions such as the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell hog a lot of the limelight, Barcelona has so much more to offer once you scratch beneath the surface. Having returned to Barcelona again and again, I have continued to discover unique and fascinating experiences in the city.

This unique and quirky identity within the city is what gives the city its unique character and identity.

Whether it is your first time, or you are a regular visitor to the city, I encourage you to visit a few of the sites on the list. Not only will you have an interesting experience, but you’ll have a unique story to tell once you return home.