| 6 mins read
Barcelona has over the years maintained its high status on the go-to wishlist of many a traveller. While everyone from the affluent tourists to the backpackers throng this city, who doesn't love a good deal; it gets even better if you get to enjoy the city for free!
Here is a Barcelona tour guide with a listing of 20 free things to do... afterall the best things in life are free!
Stroll down Las Ramblas
Stretching for almost a mile this long strip is one of the most famous in the world. It’s always packed full of people and tourist restaurants, with human statues and pet stalls.
Hang out in El Raval
This cool area is a cool network of narrow streets with trendy bars and great vintage stores to peruse at your leisure.
Wander around Parc Güell
The vast majority of Gaudí sites have a pricey admission but Parc Güell fortunately remains free. An incredible mishmash of mosaics statues, fountains and foliage this park offers spectacular views situated high above the city.
Sunbathe on the beach
Barceloneta is the closest beach to the city, although this often means it can be the busiest. But with beachfront cafes and bars along the shore we’re certain a little sangria on the beach will erase any concerns!
Pay a visit to the Jardí Botànic
Established after the 1992 Olympics this space of 14 hectares is reminiscent of an amphitheatre, it’s definitely worth a look!
Go to a museum for free
On the first Sunday of every month Barcelona’s museums open their doors for free. Some are also open after 3pm every Sunday for free also so check admission times.
Do a bit of window shopping at the Mercat de la Boqueria
A famous indoor market bringing you an explosion of colour and tastes the Mercat de la Boqueria is well worth a browse. This local affair full of delicatessens, butchers and tapas bars will be an attack on the senses and well worth the experience.
Admire Gaudí’s work from the street
View the famous architect's work such as Casa Batlo on the Passeig de Gràcia, an incredible structure that looks like it was made from skulls and bones. On the same street you will find La Pedrera / Casa Milà. And then of course there is Barcelona’s famous Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s unfinished work which can be easily imbibed from the street or the green patches around the entrance.
Amble around Parc de la Ciutadella
Spanning 74 acres, Barcelona’s most central park is home to the zoo, museums and a lovely lake. It’s well worth spending an afternoon basking in the sun and admiring the floral scenery and impressive statues and fountains.
Take in the Magic Fountain show
Since 1929 The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc has wowed spectators with an impressives fountain and lights show. Performance times change depending on season so check details before you arrive.
Marvel at La Seu
This incredible gothic cathedral dates back to 1298. The architecture is imposing and complete with amazing steeples and giant flying buttresses.
Get your free tapas with a drink
Although fairly difficult to find, free tapas does still get served alongside a drink in several of the city’s districts. But even if you are unable to find it, there are plenty of places that serve cheap tapas, at about 2 euros a serving if you buy a drink.
Arrive during a festival
Come for the La Merce Festival, Festa Major de Gràcia or the Castellers, which are Human Towers that people build in Plaça de Jaume. Basically these festivals will offer a fantastic celebration that should not be miised.
Admire Joan Miró's public art
Around the city you will find Barcelona’s celebrated artist’s work. Barcelona has a terrific way of celebrating its artists with scultures dotting the cityscape!
Skate in the twilight
The APB Skate Club arranges nighttime tours of the city. This is a fun way to see the city as you never have before. The groups meet up at 10.30pm every Friday for their fast-paced tours.
Check out the view from Castell de Montjuïc
Get moving with a dance show
Browse the Mercat de Santa Caterina
Take in Barcelona’s lovely squares
A key part to Barcelona’s character is the squares. Pay a visit to a few of them such as Plaça de El Sortidor, Plaça de la Concòrdia, or Plaça de La Virreina. All of which are a lovely place to saunter.
Sift through the Els Encants Vells flea market
Here you will find a brilliant vintage clothing selection around the rim of this fantastic market. Inside is a unique and wonderful collection of junky trinkets.
Image Details and Licenses:https://flic.kr/p/8SD5y6 (Gemunique,CC BY-NC-ND 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/7z8NRt(Lídia Santiago,CC BY-NC-SA 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/7pXjM6(Alex Proimos,CC BY-NC 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/MA3ak(Adrian,CC BY-NC 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/82w7Ks(ILHA LEE,CC BY-NC 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/7Rse1K(Ivan Mlinaric,CC BY 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/58AAYr(Kit Logan,CC BY-NC-ND 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/7NZ6o3(Jorge Láscar,CC BY 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/d9UwPM(MARIA ROSA FERRE ✿,CC BY-SA 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/hYdMP3(Alessandro Grussu,CC BY-NC-ND 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/coarb7(jimsideas,CC BY-NC-ND 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/bBQ5zh(jenn li,CC BY-NC-SA 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/8F56y6(Ryan & Sarah Meis,CC BY 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/6v1C8M(cometstarmoon,CC BY 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/9yDgTb(Oscar Cuadrado Martinez,CC BY-NC 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/58SwLh(Kit Logan,CC BY-NC-ND 2.0),https://flic.kr/p/mhaDvx(Jonathan Percy,CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) https://flic.kr/p/9QNpvj (Maxim B CC by SA/2.0) https://flic.kr/p/4yeFKR (Montse Poch cropped CC NC-ND/2.0) https://flic.kr/p/bBF9yx (Bonaventure Leris Ccby2,0)