Barcelona really is one of the best cities in Europe, with so many world famous attractions.
But after you’ve been to the beach, explored Las Ramblas, watching a football game and seen the Gaudi architecture at Parc Guell, what other cool things are there to do?
I have put together a list of non-touristy places to visit which offer a really unique and different experience to the overcrowded main destinations.
1. Club Natacio Atletic-Barceloneta
If you’re keen to be active, head to the Club Natacio Atletic-Barceloneta which is situated on the beach. At this establishment, you’ll find a number of indoor and open-air swimming pools, facilities for beach volleyball and table tennis. This certainly beats sitting on the beach!
2. Explore Passeig del Born
Barcelona is awash with interesting districts, but Passeig del Born is perhaps one of the most fascinating. Come here and you’ll have the opportunity to take in traditional medieval architecture – some of which dates back to the 14th century – and gain an idea of what life in the city was like hundreds of years ago.
In days gone by, Passeig del Born was the location of jousting matches, religious processions and even executions, so it’s the perfect spot to soak up the rich local history. Today, however, it contains some of Barcelona’s most vibrant bars making it a place you will want to head to if you’re after a good night out.
3. Skateboarding at Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona
A trip to the Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona won’t only give you the chance to take in fantastic modern art but also to watch top skateboarders in action.
The area directly outside the Placa dels Angel institution is a popular spot for action sport enthusiasts, with Tuesday and Sunday afternoons designated as ‘official’ skateboarding days.
If you see yourself as the next Tony Hawk or Shaun White, you should grab a board and have a go at performing some tricks. The smooth ground and ledges outside the museum offer perfect conditions for grinds, manuals and other moves.
4. Take in a Concert at Palau de la Musica Catalana
A fantastic way to get acquainted with a city’s culture is to attend a concert, with Barcelona’s Palau de la Musica Catalana a particularly great venue to do just that.
Built in 1905, this stunning Art Deco institution doesn’t only host world-class musical performances and dance recitals throughout the year – it’s also deemed to be an iconic symbol of Catalonia social life.
If you’re going to be in Barcelona before or after university, you’ll be glad to know the Palau de la Musica Catalana offers tickets to students under the age of 30 at a discounted price.
5. Hold a Mammoth Tusk
For another museum experience that is slightly different to the norm, head to the city’s Mammoth Museum. Generally speaking, you aren’t allowed to touch the exhibits at galleries or museums but this isn’t something you need to worry about here.
In fact, officials actively encourage visitors to pick up the things that are on show! During a visit you’ll have the chance to handle mammoth tusks and the hide of a woolly rhinoceros, among other things. A snap of you holding an ancient animal artefact is bound to be a highlight for your scrapbook.
I recently wrote a guide to the best bars in Barcelona, some of which are very unusual and places to definitely add to your itinerary. For more inspiration and things to do view my Barcelona travel guide.
