1. Visit the Geek Triangle

Among the Passeig Sant Joan and Ausias March Street there is an area known as “The Geek Triangle”, one block that concentrates 80% of the subculture, leisure and geek culture in Barcelona. Shops like Gigamesh, Ingenio or Firefly offer video games, comic-books, sci-fi, DVDs, cards, board games, costumes, anime and so much more. Since the 80s “The Geek Triangle” has been the place in which fans come to make their purchases. It is a must-see for all those visitors who want to enjoy an explosion of freedom, creation, and color. Some of the shops, like Kaburi or Norma Cómics, even have coffee-shops so you can taste a meal or a beverage while enjoying your shopping in Barcelona.

Local tip: If you want to hang out with the rest of the Barcelona geek community, Friday and Saturday afternoon are the best days to pay your visit.

2. Hang out on the Gràcia Squares

Gràcia used to be an independent village that was absorbed by the city of Barcelona at the beginning of the 20th century. Nevertheless, the district still feels proud of its origins and maintains its own personality. You can feel it walking through its narrows streets, talking to its diverse residents and enjoying its originals restaurants. Gràcia it´s also a great area to go out on nights because it´s not as crowded as other centric areas. But above all, Gràcia is great to just hang out in one of its enormous squares. Whether is the Plaza del Diamante, the Plaza de la Virreina or the Plaza del Reloj, the squares of Gracias are full of benches, terraces and places to spend a pleasant time in good company. If you really want to enjoy Barcelona like a local, Gràcia neighborhood is a must visit!

Local tip: For a breakfast, vermouth, lunchtime or dinner, Gracia is always one of the best choices for local citizens, especially around “la Plaça de Sol” where you can find plenty of opportunities to eat and drink.

3. Go to Street Markets and Flea Markets

El Mercat dels Encants is the oldest market in the city. You can find furniture, clothing, and mobile phone accessories. Also books, works of art or mechanical tools. The access to the market is free of charge and it opens every day of the year. On the other hand, there is also itinerant flea markets like The Lost & Found, Fleadonia and many others celebrated throughout the year. They are held on Saturdays and Sundays in different areas of Barcelona and there you can find private exhibitors who sell their old clothing or vintage style stores. If you like to dress original, you have to go there.

Local tip: Don´t forget to bargain!

4. Drink a Vermouth in El Raval

Like Paris, Barcelona also has a literary scent. There are many writers who have been inspired by the deep El Raval, also known as El Barrio Chino (The Chinese Neighborhood). Frequented by all kinds of characters, El Raval is a strangely attractive area to visit, especially to go to enjoy a vermouth. The vermouth is a macerated in herbs type of wine, consumed especially on lunch time. Walk along El Raval on mornings to enjoy Vermouth, it´s one of the favorite activities of the Barcelona people. But El Raval is so much more: It has local commerce, urban culture, music and gastronomy. In El Raval, you will also find museums such as the CCCB (which hosts exhibitions, conferences, etc), the MACBA, the Librería de Cataluña or the Film Library.

Local tip: Vermouth and Patatas Bravas (spicy potatoes) is the perfect combination for a Sunday morning with locals after a night out.

5. Visit the Museums on Sunday (are free!!)

Catalonians are known all over Spains for being money savvy. Whether this is true or not, you will probably find out that most of the locals visit museums on Sundays. Why? Because it´s free! So if you want to enjoy Barcelona like a local, you can visit museums on Sunday. In this day of the week there are many museums in Barcelona that won´t charge your visit. Also, If you are a little patient and can wait for the month of May, you can attend “La Nit dels Museus” (the night of the museums). From 19 PM to 1 AM, museums such as the Xocolata Museum, the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC), the Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA), the Museu del Fútbol Club Barcelona, the Museu Egipci and many more are totally free of charge. And not only museums: the Hospital de Sant Pau, La Pedrera or the Monestir de Pedralbes.

Local tip: The free entrance depends on the day of the week or the month, so make sure on their website before going there.

6. Enjoy Open Air Cinema

Enjoying outdoors cinema is a very typical activity in Barcelona. On the Sant Sebastià beach in the Barceloneta district, there are cinema series and short film festivals. They set up big screens on the sand and let people come to enjoy the movies for free. You can bring food, drinks and even your own chair.

One of the most original open-air cinema sessions are celebrated in the Montjuic Castle, in a festival called “Cinema a la Fresca” where you can enjoy classic and contemporary cinema cycles inside a medieval pit. They schedule classic music concerts before the show, the ticket only costs €6 and people usually have a picnic before the movie.

Local tip: Always go early to get a good spot and always bring a jacket, since Barcelona nights can be cold.

7. Go to a Park for a walk

In Barcelona, there are many beautiful parks where you can walk and enjoy nature. The Park Güell is one of the best but the entrance cost money and it´s always very crowded. That´s the reason we recommend you the Laberint d’Horta Park, one of the most romantic and fun parks in Barcelona. Also, it is free of charge on Wednesdays and Sundays. The Palau Reial, located in Diagonal, has a beautiful park too where you can have a quiet moment. And, of course, the Parc de la Ciutadella, one of the biggest parks in the whole city. It´s also full of monuments so it´s the perfect place to walk and get lost in its beauty and history.

Local tip: The mornings are the best time to visit parks in Barcelona since you won´t find so many people.

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The neighborhoods of Barcelona treasure a lot of streets, squares and buildings that you can not miss when you come to visit the Catalan capital. Today we are going to spend a day in the Gracia neighborhood in Barcelona, an area with bohemian imprint and artistic and multicultural character.

We’ll go through the main points of interest so that you immerse yourself fully in this neighborhood’s life, a place that once was an independent municipality until the end of the 19th century. The Gracia neighborhood became part of the urban nucleus of Barcelona in 1897, but this place still preserves the magic of the city that one day was, so you will find many cool things to see and do.

Discover the Gracia neighborhood in Barcelona

The squares in the Gracia neighborhood

There are several squares you can find in the neighborhood of Gracia. The most popular is the Plaça de Sol, with terraces and cafes and with a lot of atmosphere during the day and, especially, at night.
Another square, one of the most beautiful, and in which you will also find many people is the Plaça de la Virreina. There you’ll see the parish church of Sant Joan, and even you can dance some swing on Sundays.

An obligatory visit when you are in Gracia neighborhood is the Plaça del Diamant, which conserves an anti-aircraft shelter from the Civil War, the Plaça del Nord or the Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia. Plaça de la Sedeta is currently an active civic center in the neighborhood and a symbol of struggle and neighborhood work since it is located in the old Pujol i Casacuberta factory, known by the name of this square.

The Park Güell

We now move to one of the most emblematic and visited places in Gracia: the Park Güell. This jewel is a work of Antonio Gaudí, and we invite you to walk through each of its corners. Its square is a viewpoint where you can enjoy the spectacular views towards Barcelona and, in the park, you will find nature, art and history.

The construction of the Park Güell began in 1900 and some of its essential spaces are the Escalinata del Dragón (the Stairway of the Dragon), the Sala Hipóstila (the Hypostyle Hall), the Teatro Griego (the Greek Theatre) or the Plaza de la Naturaleza (Nature Square) that is currently under construction, el Pórtico de la Lavandera (the Porch of the Washerwoman) or the Jardines de Austria (Austrian Gardens). You can also enjoy incredible walks along its roads, streets and viaducts.

The Modernist architecture of Gracia

Squares, parks and, also, buildings with history. The Gracia neighborhood is the cradle of some of the most representative modernist buildings of modernist architecture in Barcelona. One of them is the Casa Vicens, the first work of Gaudí and former bourgeois residence. It is located on Carolines Street.

Another beautiful building that you will find on your walk through the neighborhood of Gracia is the Casa Rubinat, of modernist architecture, built by Francesc Berenguer Mestres, the right hand of Gaudí, in 1909. As a curiosity, the project is signed by Joan Rubió i Bellver, since Berenguer was not titled.

The Mercat de la Llibertat (the Freedom Market)

Another modernist building you will have the opportunity to visit in the Gracia neighborhood in Barcelona is the Mercat de la Llibertat (the Freedom Market), located in the homonymous square. The space it occupied since 1888, formerly known as Plaza de la Constitución, was the place where farmers sold their vegetables, vegetables and other products.

Now, you can focus on a whole feast of sounds, smells and colors within a building with iron and work structure, decorated with pieces of wrought iron, which was designed to protect the food and all things that were inside. And if there are not many people or you have time, you can taste some of the foods or dishes that are served in one of the stalls directly in the same market.

The viaduct of Vallcarca

Located in the upper part of Gracia, between the Coll and the Putxet hills, this viaduct is a civil engineering work that was built by architect Miquel Pasqual Tintorer. It was the first time that iron was used with reinforced concrete to cover with cement a construction at the bank of a stream.

With this viaduct the cars and people could move from one side to the other and, in the same way, the neighborhood was opened to the rest of the city, favoring the connections. If you want to enjoy unbeatable views, we invite you to come to visit this point, one of the highest in Barcelona.

The Teatre Més Petit del Món (the Smallest Theatre in the World)

The Gracia neighborhood of Barcelona has the honor to host the smallest theater in the world. It is located on Encarnación Street, number 25, and is located on the ground floor of an old farmhouse from 1890. It was opened to the public in 1999 and, in this place, there are concerts, shows and events, all on a magic stage and in a familiar and cozy environment.

The streets with charm

If you want to walk, Gracia is a beautiful place to do it. Streets are full of magic, and you can still feel the atmosphere of the old town it was once ago. In many of these streets, you will be able to see fun traffic signs decorated with stickers.

On Verdi Street, for example, you will find a wide variety of restaurants with typical food from nearly every country. And if you want to change and visit the district of L’Eixample, you can walk along the Paseo de Sant Joan (last section of it) which connects both areas of Barcelona and was opened in 1929.

Squares, buildings, streets and parks. The neighborhood of Gracia in Barcelona is a meeting place where you will find culture, tradition and art to offer you an unforgettable day by visiting one of the most iconic districts in the city.

Featured image: Gracia, one of the most visited neighborhoods in Barcelona by locals

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The Rambla del Poblenou in Barcelona is a space that came to decongest a neighborhood with a marked industrial character. It was originally called Paseo del Triunfo although it was popularly known as Rambla del Poblenou; the official name changed in 1986.

The closure of many industries in this Barcelona neighborhood meant that this area had more and more leisure, culture and commercial activity, so this avenue became the central axis of this area of the Catalan city.

Today we want to tell you something about its history and show you what to see in the Rambla del Poblenou. We propose you a walk along this street that connects the sea and the mountain.

A bit of history: the origins of the Rambla del Poblenou

The Rambla del Poblenou is one kilometer long and runs from the Gran Vía de Les Corts Catalanes to near Bogatell beach, becoming one of the longest boulevards in Barcelona.

We moved to 1853 to know about its origins. This avenue was projected within the Cerdà plan and was baptized as Paseo del Triunfo by the municipal architect Antoni Trias.

Even then, it was an essential part of the homonymous neighborhood, Poblenou, very industrialized and that began to expand in the district of Sant Martí, transforming its personality at the same time, since little by little, more and more shops and restaurants were emerging.

For the neighbors, it became a place to walk and talk, something that still happens today, apart from the commercial and gastronomic offer you can find in this Rambla.

Although over the years this street has undergone transformations that have modernized it, something that makes it special is precisely the fact that it has managed to maintain part of that neighborhood charm.

What to see in the Rambla del Poblenou

Shops, bars, modernist buildings of great beauty or monuments. Find here everything you can see during your walk on the Rambla del Poblenou.

Casino l’Aliança del Poblenou

Popularly known as L’Aliança, this casino was founded in the year 1869, although it is located at number 42 of the Rambla del Poblenou since 1929. It is a recreational center that became the seat of the social and cultural life of this Barcelona neighborhood since the late nineteenth century. Concerts and cultural events of all kinds take place in there.

Sculptures

During this visit, you will see several sculptures.

• Sculpture to Doctor Josep Trueta: it is located at the beginning of the Rambla, next to Pere IV street and it is the work of Josep Ricart i Maimir.
• Sculpture of L’adolescent. Al cant popular (The teenager. To the popular song), work that dates from 1960 and created by Martí Llauradó i Mariscot.
• Monument to Pere Relats, by Josep Ricart Maymir. Opened in 1979, it is a tribute to this priest who worked in favor of the neighborhood and who died in an accident in the mountains. The stone used to build the sculpture was brought from the place where the tragedy occurred.

Other points of interest in the Rambla del Poblenou

Modernist buildings are also part of the urban landscape of this Rambla. The houses you will find if you walk between the Rambla de Poblenou 102 and Pallars Street 222, designed by the architect Jaume Bayó i Font, are a good example of this movement.

The most popular restaurants on the Rambla del Poblenou

It’s time to take strength, and the Rambla del Poblenou is a place full of bars, restaurants and cafes where you can do it.

1. Belgious

If you fancy something sweet, here you can have a waffle, crepes, juices and smoothies. You will find it at the number 24 on this avenue.

2. El Tío Ché

It is one of the most emblematic horchaterías of Barcelona. Treasure more than a century of history behind it and here you can take, as it can not be otherwise, truffle milk and ice cream. You will find it at Rambla del Poblenou 44-46.

3. La Tertulia

Mediterranean cuisine where you can enjoy meals, dinners, breakfast, daily menu and tapas at any time. The restaurant is located at Rambla del Poblenou, 34.

4. Siamoqua

Lovers of Italian cuisine have an appointment at number 123 on this street. It has a lunch menu and a carte to choose your favorite dish.

5. 4uatre lounge

And to end your day nothing better than having a quiet drink after dinner at this place specializing in cocktails, at the number 63. Although if you prefer to go during the day, you can also have breakfast, a snack, eat or have a coffee in the afternoon.

Featured image: The Rambla in the morning

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L’Eixample District is called in this way because the engineer and urban planner Ildefons Cerdà decided to widen Barcelona around the old town. The plans to expand the city with a strategy in mind is how this neighborhood emerged, one of the largest in the city. L’Eixample has was planned and built in a practically perfect grid. The characteristic octagonal blocks were a visionary street design for various reasons. The architect broadened the intersections for visibility, taking into account traffic and ventilation, now they are mostly used for short-term parking.

Architecture, museums, restaurants, shops, markets … There is a lot to see and do in this area of Barcelona and today we give you some clues so you can start discovering it.

What to see and visit in L’Eixample District in Barcelona?

The Paseo de Gracia

One of the arteries of the Barcelona district of L’Eixample is Paseo de Gracia. We recommend that you visit it and contemplate its modernist buildings and the beautiful architecture that we find in it.It also welcomes shops of the most exclusive fashion brands.

Here you will step on the pavement tiles of the avenue, designed by Gaudí, and you will be able to admire the lampposts of Pere Falqués i Urpí. A walk for the enjoyment of your five senses.

Other streets and squares to walk

Continuing our journey through the district of L’Eixample in Barcelona, we recommend you to stroll along the Rambla de Cataluña (the small part, below Diagonal), Diagonal Avenue or the Gran Vía de las Cortes Catalanas. Among the squares that are worth visiting, do not forget Plaza de Cataluña, one of the most popular places in the city due to its location and the swaying of tourists and locals. This area is full of life with gardens and the twin fountains that light up in a 30-minute show on Fridays and Saturdays. We are sure you’ll love it!

The Sagrada Familia

If there is an emblematic building in Barcelona that is the Sagrada Familia of Gaudí. Impressive from the outside and also inside, it is a place with a lot of history whose works are scheduled to end in 2026.

Other emblematic buildings

If you like architecture in the district of L’Eixample in Barcelona, you will be able to see the most important modernist buildings in Barcelona. For example, Casa Batlló by Gaudí and Casa Milà (known as La Pedrera); Casa Amatller, by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, or Casa Fuster and Casa Lleó i Morera, by Lluís Domenech i Montaner.

The neighborhood of Sant Antoni

This neighborhood sits in the district of L’Eixample, and the market of the same name is its most characteristic building.  “Mercat Sant Antoni” was built at the end of the 19th century.  The Sant Antoni neighborhood hosts cultural events all year long, such as a weekly fair for books and collectibles. Also, it is possible to find the usual fresh produce stands on the market.

Its last restoration has allowed, on the other hand, to reconstruct the frescoes of the walls and a pit was adapted in the basement with a part of a wall recovered from the 17th century.

Fundació Tàpies

The  is based in a modernist building by Lluís Domènech i Montaner that was constructed between 1881 and 1885. Its façade combines iron and brick and was the first of its kind to be built in this area of Barcelona.

It is a space starring the life and work of Antoni Tàpies in which exhibitions and cultural activities take place.

To enjoy all this, you have to get to Carrer d’Aragó.

Museu del Modernisme of Barcelona

Following this art route, and since we are in the neighborhood with more modernist buildings in Barcelona, we now offer you a visit to the Museu del Modernisme de Barcelona. Located on Calle Balmes, in this place you can see paintings, sculptures, and furniture in modernist style, as well as temporary exhibitions. It is the only museum specializing in Catalan Modernism throughout the European region.

It is open from Monday to Friday from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The general entrance, which includes the permanent and temporary exhibition, has a price of 10 euros. On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays the museum is closed.

Mercat dels Encants Vells – Encants Market

It treasures more than 700 years of history and is one of the oldest markets that remain in Europe.

Open every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., the Encants Market of Barcelona has almost 300 shops: clothing, decoration, music, bicycle shops. It also has auction spaces with second-hand products, old and collector’s and, of course, market stalls. You can find a wide selection of gastronomic offers in its bars and restaurants.

You will find it between Avenida Meridiana, Calle Caspe, and Calle Castillejos, in the old Bosquet Dels Encants.

Palau Robert

The Palau Robert is a building located at the intersection of Avenida Diagonal and Paseo de Gracia in the heart of the Eixample district. It was built between 1898 and 1903 to serve as the private residence of Robert Robert i Surís, the Marquis de Robert, a businessman, politician, and aristocrat.

Currently, the building is owned by the Generalitat of Catalonia and has become a cultural center with exhibition halls and concerts, a library and public gardens.

The Palau Robert is also is the headquarters of the Tourism Office of Catalonia, open Monday to Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sundays and dresses from 9 a.m. to 2.30 p.m., on January 5, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on days 24 and 31 of December from 9.00 to 14.30. On December 25 and 26 and January 1 and 6, it closes.

Credits: Aerial view of the Eixample

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As one of the Mediterranean Sea main ports, along with Istanbul, Mykonos or Genoa, Barcelona has always been a trade center. From Roman times, the ships have docked in the Barcino (the roman Barcelona) port to sell their goods brought from the farthest corners of the world. Fancy fabrics, precious stones and exotic spices were some of the products that were sold in the docks of the Catalan capital. Luxury retail has played a crucial role in the history of the city and its urban development.

Barcelona, ​​as the capital of the Cataluña and as the second largest city in Spain, is a target for national and international corporations. With more than 4 million inhabitants and a total of 19.1 million foreign visitors in 2017, big brands always fight to display their newest products for sale. Nowadays, there is even a type of tourism known as “shopping tourism”. In addition to the historical and cultural spots of the city, tourists come to Barcelona only to visit the most luxurious shopping areas.

Whether to organize your luxury shopping trip or to find out the latest trends in luxury retail, in this list you will find the best streets for luxury shopping in Barcelona.

Passeig de Gràcia

Passeig de Gràcia is one of the most important avenues of the city for many reasons. The main one is that the most famous Catalan modernist monuments in the world, such as the Casa Milá or the Casa Batlló, are in this street. The area was developed in the 19th century by the architect Ildefonso Cerdá as part of his project to expand the old medieval city of Barcelona, ​​with a neighborhood known as the Eixample (“The widening”).

The sumptuousness of this avenue quickly attracted the Barcelona bourgeoisie, turning the area into a commercial spot that has been expanded over the years. That is the reason why, nowadays, the most important luxury firms in the world are quarreling for a place in this street. In Passeig de Gràcia you will find brands such as Versace, Hermés, Chanel and Prada, as well as jewelry and perfumeries. The avenue begins in Plaza Catalunya, right next to the Apple Store, one of the largest in Spain, and ends at the edge of the Gràcia district, in front of Jardinets de Gràcia (Gràcia gardens). If you are planning a to visit the most luxurious shops in Barcelona, ​​ Passeig de Gràcia should be your first destination.

Avinguda Diagonal

Avinguda Diagonal is one of the main arteries of the Catalan capital since it is a wide avenue that crosses the city from side to side diagonally (hence its name). For many years it was considered simply a fast track chosen by most of the citizens to move from one end of the capital to the other. However, over the years and because of the growth of the city, Avinguda Diagonal has become a bustling commercial area.

Its central promenade, gardens and wide sidewalks host some of the most important luxury shops in Barcelona. In its different heights (it’s the longest street in Barcelona, ​​with an extension of 10.2 km) you can find luxury clothing boutiques, fancy watchmakers and jewelers of the most prestigious brands. In addition to these luxurious stores, on Avinguda Diagonal you will find shopping centers such as Glòries, El Corte Inglés or the famous L’Illa Diagonal. Nevertheless, the best way to visit this area is by walking and stopping in the small stores located on both sides of the avenue.

El Born

El Born neighborhood, located in the Ciutat Vella district of Barcelona, ​​does not look like a luxury shopping area at first glance. El Born is a traditional neighborhood with small businesses, so in this district you will not find large shopping centers. But when you walk through its narrow streets you will come across small fashion designers’ shops, where you can add a little “Barcelona style” to your looks. Independent designer brands, typical Catalan decorations made with recycled materials, the most expensive wood clocks or unconventional art galleries are some of the products you can buy in a neighborhood like El Born.

Sarrià

The old town of Sarrià, now transformed into a high standing neighborhood, also houses some of the fanciest shops in the city. The high purchasing power of the inhabitants of this neighborhood means that, when you walk along its cozy streets, you find stores of the most exclusive brands. At any corner of the Sarrià neighborhood you’ll find firms such as Joffret, Coquette Store or Furest. With a calm residential environment, the Sarrià area is the perfect place to do your shopping, since you can be sure that the products displayed in the shop windows of the Sarrià boutiques are the best in the whole city.

La Roca Village

Imagine a town in which everything was luxury stores, and in every corner, you could find brands such as Armani, Ralph Lauren or Bimba & Lola. That town exists, and it’s called La Roca Village. It is true that it is technically a shopping center, but we have included it on this list due to its unique form. Half an hour from the center of Barcelona, ​​in La Roca Village you can visit shoe stores, jewelry stores and clothing such as Calvin Klein, G-Star Raw, Diesel, Desigual or Custo. La Roca is a shopping center that is worth spending a day knowing if you want to buy the most exclusive products that Barcelona can offer you.

Featured image: Louis Vuitton Shop, Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona

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April 23 is an especially romantic day in Catalonia. Books, roses and love fill the air. The Ramblas, Barcelona’s most famous avenue, is covered with rose petals. So where does all this romance come from?

It is none other than Saint George’s Day, or Sant Jordi’s Day in the Catalan language. The festival has evolved from a mixture of traditions, the most popular being the legend of Saint George slaying a dragon, and therefore saving the King’s daughter. Thanks to his heroic feat, Saint George was named patron saint of Catalonia since the 15th century, and Sant Jordi in Barcelona became one of the greatest festivities in the city.

The medieval Saint George chapel would soon host a rose fair, making George the most romantic of European saints, still inspiring sweethearts centuries later.

The Legend: Sant Jordi, the dragon, the princess and the rose bush

Once upon a time, there was a dragon that lived in Catalonia, devastating its people. The dragon ravaged the gardens, devoured the cattle and terrified the villagers. It was then that the King, famous for his extraordinary justice, decided to offer the dragon a human sacrifice so that he would leave his subjects and his property in peace. The King decided to set a raffle instead of choosing among all the people who would be sacrificed. Unfortunately for him, it was his daughter, the princess.

The dramatic day arrived and, when the princess walked inconsolably towards her own sacrifice, a knight on horseback appeared in the distance. The dragon, who could almost taste his gift, faced the courageous knight, who was none other than Sant Jordi. After a fight to the death, Sant Jordi threw his spear against the dragon, piercing his heart. Legend has it that from the blood of the dragon a rose bush with red roses came out. Then, Sant Jordi plucked a rose and gave it to the princess.

Sant Jordi in Barcelona today

Catalonia, and especially its capital, has taken Sant Jordi as a version of Valentine’s Day to another level – over the years the tradition developed into sweethearts exchanging gifts: men give women roses, and women give men books, from which the phrase “a rose for love and a book forever” was born. However, today, the tradition has adapted to modern times, and both a rose and a book would be a right choice to give to men or women, or children.

23rd of April is also a historical literary date, marking the death of William Shakespeare and Spain’s most famous writer, Miguel Cervantes, both having died on the same day in the year 1616.

Love and literacy have exploded in Barcelona in modern times: now nearly 4 million roses are exchanged and nearly 1 million books bought on April 23rd!

Like every tradition, certain rules apply, and nowadays roses of many different colors are sold. Depending on the color of the rose the meaning of the gift will be different: red roses symbolize passion between lovers; blue roses symbolize trust between friends; pink roses reflect affection, and yellow roses reflect joy.

The most interesting spots to visit during Sant Jordi in Barcelona

Although Sant Jordi’s day is well represented by books and roses, this festivity offers much more than that. During this day, acts, events, performances, presentations and all kinds of open doors in emblematic buildings are held. Here we show you a list of the most interesting places to visit during the day:

· The Palau de la Generalitat, Barcelona’s principal government building, is open to the public. So during this day you can visit the medieval palace, one of the few that still serves as the seat of government. Its interior is decorated with roses to honor Sant Jordi or Saint George.

· In Las Ramblas, you will find all kinds of bookstores, book and roses stands and booths where you can find the latest editorial products. The publishers bring their most famous authors to sign copies and there is always a great stir. Do not forget to stop by here in the nest of Sant Jordi’s celebration.

· The Casa Batlló celebrates this special day by covering its façade with red roses, embellishing, even more, this beautiful Catalan modernist style house.

· The Columbus viewpoint makes a special offer during this day: you can ride it for free if your name is Jordi or any of its versions in another language. This goes for the Georges, Georginas and Jürgens of the whole world who only today can access the viewpoint without any cost.

· The Sagrada Familia neighborhood festivals coincide with Sant Jordi, so you can combine a walk through the most literary party in the city with one of the best popular festivals of the city. You also can visit the Sagrada Familia during the night, since on this day the basilica extends its visiting hours.

All this is just the tip of the iceberg since during this Sant Jordi in Barcelona you can enjoy concerts in the old factory of Estrella, film festivals or the Nit del Drac, a literature celebration that takes place in the Cultural Institute of the city. Street performers and musicians in public squares add to the day’s atmosphere.

As you can see, there are so many options for the whole family, in addition to the lovers. And whether it’s to enjoy the books, the workshops, the exhibitions or the different official open buildings, the day of Sant Jordi is the perfect moment to visit Barcelona.

Be sure to look for books stores or cafés hosting reading events on Sant Jordi’s Day in Barcelona – or even a 24-hour marathon reading of different classics of Catalan or Spanish literature!

Catalonia exported its tradition of the book and the rose to the rest of the world. In 1995 UNESCO adopted 23 April as World Book Day.

So, go ahead and follow in this Catalan tradition, and be sure to give your sweetheart either a rose or a book this Monday! You’ll be participating in the most romantic holidays this Sant Jordi in Barcelona!

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In Barcelona during the summer you can enjoy the sun and the beach, while in the winter you can experience the warm feeling of the Catalan Christmas traditions. But, without a doubt, the spring is one the best times to spend a weekend in Barcelona. The days get longer and during this season, the trees flourish, people leave their coats at home and enjoy life in the outdoors, one of the best features of a Mediterranean city such as Barcelona. Terraces and streets are full of locals and tourists who want to have a great time in these days. Many activities begin with the spring and the Catalan capital is one of the best places to enjoy them.

Since we want you to have an awesome Barcelona spring weekend, today we bring you a fantastic list of the top 10 things to do in Barcelona during spring.

What to do in Barcelona during spring?

Feel like locals in La Diada de Sant Jordi

Sant Jordi, the patron of Catalonia, is celebrated on April 23rd and commemorates the death of Knight Jordi for refusing to persecute Christians in the era of Emperor Diocletian as legends tell. The knight became a martyr and more legends such as Sant Jordi and the Dragon emerged from his story. This legend explains that the knight wanted to save the princess and fought against a dragon, who had the whole town frightened. Sant Jordi killed it and a rosebush with the reddest and most beautiful roses was born from the blood of the dragon. The knight took one of the roses and offered it to the princess. And seems that, since the fifteenth century, a fair of roses was organized in honor of this day.
The 23rd of April is also the international day of the book. That makes Catalonia one of the most significant days to enjoy this date, especially Barcelona. The entire city is covered with red roses and books, since all the bookstores in Barcelona bring their stock to the streets, assembling stands where they sell books directly to the public, in addition to red roses. Is a tradition for this day to give a rose or a book as a present to your loved ones.

Enjoy the Holy Week Processions

Catalonia is a big city, which means that its inhabitants come from all different parts of the country. The Semana Santa is a big tradition in regions like Andalucia, so Catalonians with that familiar and cultural background usually celebrate processions (religious parades). In the processions, the different religious associations (“cofradías” in Spanish) carry their religious images, usually representing scenes of the passion of Christ. Even if you are not Christian or a religious person, it’s an impressive spectacle that we encourage you to get to know. If you want to do something different in Barcelona during Spring, don’t miss them!

Visit the Eat Street Food Festival

Food trucks have become very popular in Barcelona in the last couple of years. That’s why weather gets warmer, the food trucks gather together and organize festivals where you can have all kinds of different food on the outside. Having a beer and a delicious meal sitting in the grass with your friends while enjoying the sun is one of the best things to do in Barcelona in March.

Have a barbeque in Les Planes Merendero

The Les Planes Merendero is an area designed to host all kinds of barbeques, with spaces for the grills, the coal and the wood. The merendero also has a restaurant, tables, chairs, parking, a football field and everything you might need to enjoy a sunny spring day. When the spring weather arrives, this place gets filled with groups who want to enjoy the sun and have barbeques. Tip: you can buy coal, wood and everything you need for your fire over there, but it’s cheaper if you bring it yourself.

Have fun with a Segway tour, a new experience

Segway and good weather are practically synonyms. Of course, you can enjoy a Segway tour all year long, but in spring it is even more attractive. With a good temperature and a clear sky, spring is a perfect moment to grab your backpack and start walking the city, getting to know even the most remote corners of it. But, since Barcelona is such a big city, you might need some assistance, and that’s where the Segway comes in handy. Available for groups, couples or families, even if you are traveling alone, with a Segway tour in Barcelona you will have a great time while visiting the main landmarks of this city. It’s a different way to know Barcelona, faster than walking and with a local guide that will approach you to the city, its history and its daily life.

Go to a Spring Music Festival

The Barcelona music festival season starts in the spring with the Primavera Sound. From there you can choose between so many festivals that you will be amazed. You have them for all kinds of public: techno dance in Crüilla, indie music in Primavera Sound or house music in Hivernacle. Even if you are travelling to Barcelona in spring with children, you have a familiar outdoors festival called Picnic Electronik. Great music and great fun for all the family.

Visit La Feria de Abril in Barcelona

The Feria de Abril (April Fair of Catalonia) is the name of the Andalusian celebrations that take place in this Spanish region during the spring. In this fair people dance flamenco, hang out with friends in the “casetas” (tents) and taste all kind of seafood, Spanish ham, wine and a traditional Andalusian drink called “rebujito”. In the 70’s there was a big movement of Andalusians that went to live in Barcelona, and that’s probably why neighborhoods like Badalona city have the best Feria de Abril celebrations in the city.

Go to enjoy some of the boardwalk terraces

One of the greatest things to do in Barcelona during spring is hanging out on a terrace. It doesn’t matter what time of the day it is. You can have coffee during the mornings, have some tapas or rations if you want to have lunch, have a couple of “cañas” (glasses of beer) in the evening or even have dinner. And imagine doing all that sitting in front of the sea while listening to the sound of the waves hitting the shore.

Visit the Chocolatería Street to discover the “Monas de Pascua”

In Catalonia is a tradition that the godfather or godmother buy a gift to his or her godchild called Mona de Pascua (Easter Monkey). The Mona is usually a cake, or a big figure made entirely with chocolate, and it usually brings toys on it, and sometimes has the shape of an egg. The chocolate-makers produce impressive cake designs with cartoon characters, traditional Catalonian motives and even football players like Messi. That’s why walking through Carrer Petritxol, the candy-makr street, is such a fun and delicious experience for a weekend in Barcelona during spring.

Enjoy La nit dels Museus

La nit dels Museus is a cultural celebration that takes place in the city of Barcelona in spring. Museums, art galleries, bookstores and all kinds of cultural business open during the whole night, allowing visits for free and purchases with great discounts. It’s the kind of night to be outside, walking through the city and having fun with your friends while visiting the best art exhibitions in Barcelona without paying a penny.

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1. Gardens from Mossèn Costa i Llobera

The cactus is a plant commonly associated with hot climates, like deserts. Who knew that the most important cactus-specialized park in Europe is in Barcelona? Located in one of the sides of the Montjuic Mountain, the Jardin de cactus de Mossèn Costa i Llobera is a beautiful natural space, a botanical reserve of great variety and a terrific viewpoint to see Barcelona. And just a few minutes away from the city.

Image source: Mossèn Costa i Llobera Gardens, Barcelona

2. Parque del Laberinto de Horta

Remember the maze in the movie “The Shining”? Well, the one in the Parque del Laberinto de Horta is as cool as that one without all the creepiness. In this historic park, located at the north part of the city, you will enjoy a walk through its beautiful and leafy gardens, discovering their statues, historic buildings, ponds and its famous maze. Just try not to get lost in this hidden gem of Barcelona!

3. Arús Public Library

The Arús Public Library (Biblioteca masónica Arús), founded in 1895 thanks to Rossend Arús, is a place of knowledge and wisdom. It was built under the motto “the more illustrated the people are, the further they get from absolutism”. Nowadays is one of the biggest information centers about masonry in the world, containing more than 80.000 volumes about the history of this secret society. You will recognize the place because of the reproduction of the Statue of Liberty in the front door.

Image source: Arus Public Library, Barcelona

4. Bar Rufián

Located in the Poble-Sec, Rufián is one of the hippest bars in the neighborhood. Not only for its looks (recycled furniture, cool posters and all kinds of pieces of art) or their awesome thematic parties (80’s and 90’s music) but for their delicious homemade cakes and tapas. They even have been awarded for their Pastrami sandwich, that I strongly recommend you go and taste.

5. Refugio antiaéreo 307, Air-raid shelter

Originally known as the “Refugi 307”, this hidden gem in Barcelona was one of the 1.300 bomb shelters built in the city during the Spanish Civil War. In that time, the city was systematically bombed, so the town hall and the local government set in motion the construction of bomb shelters like the 307, which had the capacity for more than 2.000 civilians.

Image source: Air-raid shelter Barcelona

6. Ramen-Ya Hiro

Would you stand in line for 45 minutes for a bowl of ramen? If your answer is no, you don´t know Ya Hiro Ramen. They only have 15 tables, they only have three kinds of ramen and appetizers and they only open for a couple of hours a day. Yet, it’s the most popular ramen joint in town. People usually starts queuing one hour before the opening time, at 8 PM. That’s why even if you get there early, you are going to spend time waiting in line. It’s worthy? Totally. The deliciousness of their Miso Ramen can´t be described in words. You GOT to taste it.

7. Mirador del Turó de la Rovira

A popular viewpoint of the city and a gathering place, not only for tourists but for young people who want to enjoy the 360 degrees views and the natural spaces. From this park you can see with your eyes the two “Barcelonas”: the one in the center, formed by the touristic areas, and the other Barcelona, composed by the neighborhoods that don’t appear in the guide.

Image source: Turo de la Rovira Viewpoint, Barcelona

8. Museum of Carrozas Fúnebres

Are you a hearses fan? Probably not, but if you visit Barcelona you can’t miss this unusual exhibition. Developed in 1970 by the Montjuic Cemetery, this museum displays some of the most beautiful hearses used in the 19th and 20th century Barcelona. From the simple carts used to transport the common folks to the imperial chariots reserved for nobility and bourgeoisie, you will be impressed by one of the oddest museums in Europe.

9. Pont del Bisbe

In the Gothic district, one of the medieval areas of the city, we find a bridge that connects the Palau de la Generalitat (The Catalonian Government Palace) with La Casa dels Canonges. The great mystery of this famous landmark is in the lower part where, if you look closely, you find a skull pierced by a dagger. How did it get there? What does it mean? Nobody knows. So, if you want to be the one that solves the mystery, you better check it out.

Image source: Pont del Bisbe, Barcelona

10. Bogatell Beach

When tourists want to swim and sunbath, they usually go to La Barceloneta Beach because it’s close from the metro station, adjacent to the neighborhood and the W hotel. And that’s precisely the reason it gets so crowded. So, if you want to have a beach day without having to share a meter square of sand with a hundred people, we recommend you go to Bogatell Beach. It’s ten minutes walking from Barceloneta through the boardwalk, and once you get there you will notice the big difference.

11. Casa de les Punxes Terrace

With more than 600 m2 of extension and inspired in the old Wagnerian castles, this modernist rooftop is a must-see for the architecture fans. Not only because of its historic, architectonic and touristic value, but for its exclusiveness. In reduced groups, you will be allowed to get up to this private terrace to enjoy a great view of Barcelona and taste Champagne and Spanish ham.

Image source: Casa de les Punxes, Barcelona

12. Weekend Karaoke

There are lots of Karaoke in Barcelona. But, if you want to enjoy an intimate yet cheerful and uplifting atmosphere, very reasonable price for the drinks and a huge list of songs, Weekend Karaoke is for you. Plus, there are two separate lounges, karaoke and club, so even if you are not in the mood of singing, you will have a great time there.

13. Barcelona Comedy Club

Do you like getting your funny bone tickled? Then you can’t miss the Barcelona Comedy Club shows. Amateur and professionals, rookies and veterans, national and international; all kind of comedians get together in different bars during the week to share their hilarious jokes. Comedians that nowadays work on TV started in this underground comedy show, the best in Barcelona. Check their social media for the schedule!

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Barcelona is one of the coolest cities when it comes to activities, but on that 2-3 day weekend break with our loved one, we are often looking for just the right things to do. Some great experiences, not too much, just enough to have a great time, take some nice pictures and relax. To make your life easier, today we want to present you 5 things you should definitely do when coming to Barcelona on a weekend break.

Go to the beach, no matter what time of the year

Barcelona has 295 days of sunshine during the year, so yes, if you’re lucky you probably can visit the beach during your weekend break and enjoy a couple of hours of sun on the Paseo Marítimo around Barceloneta and Villa Olimpica.  Both locations are easily accessible via METRO (Yellow Line) or using a taxi. You can also simply walk down La Rambla towards the sea and left towards the big 2 towers you should be able to see if you’re walking near to the water. Be aware, people in general underestimate distances in Barcelona and end up walking way too much. A walk from the end of La Rambla to the sandy beach of Barceloneta will take you approximately 20-30 minutes depending on how fast you walk.

Barcelona is one of the few big cities in the world which has a moderate climate and a beach. The atmosphere is special here and I promise you’ll be hooked to the vibe after spending an afternoon in the sun with a Mojito in your hand watching people passing by.

Have some tapas or montaditos in “El Gótico”, “El Born” or “El Raval”

Within the city center you can find many interesting opportunities to have lunch or dinner during your romantic weekend city break in Barcelona, but one of these days you should try some tapas and/or montaditos (small mounted bread slices with delicious things on them) with a “zurito” (small glass of wine or beer) and try maybe a couple of different small bars and restaurants, have a bite and a glass and move on to the next one.

You are vegetarian? Ok, it might be a bit difficult to find out what exactly is in each of the tapas but I am sure if you ask friendly the staff might be able to explain you. Remember though that the good places for food tend to be busy at certain hours, so don’t be surprised if there’s a certain “energy” in the place.

Want to know which places you definitely should try out for food when you become hungry in Barcelona? Want to know which restaurants the locals go to?

Enjoy a stroll through Gracia have a Butifarra in a Bar

Gracia is a beautiful barrio in the center of Barcelona, easily accessible via Metro L5 (Blue Line) – (Station Diagonal). Gracia was an independent village until the 19th century and it’s inhabitants are very proud of their ancestors and keep mentioning that they’re from “Gracia” not “Barcelona”. Once you’re in this beautiful quarter you’ll see the difference to the nearby Passeig de Gracia which is loud, posh and big. The small streets, businesses and bars have charme and invite to enjoy an afternoon with some friends or family.

For more information on what to do in this amazing quarter in Barcelona check out the TimeOut Guide for Gracia

Visit the Sagrada Familia and have a coffee nearby

The Sagrada Familia is one of the Top Sights in Barcelona, you definitely can go inside. Make Sure to go early to skip the long lines and avoid waiting. Once you have seen the Sagrada Familia from inside you definitely should take a round.

There are many little bars around the Sagrada Familia. Why not grab a coffee on one of the terraces and enjoy some time under the sun with stunning views on one of the most remarkable architectonic achievements created by humanity? Yeah, why not? Watch out for tourist traps and maybe walk a couple of hundred meters. 

Visit the Park Güell if the 7€ per person are within your budget

Park Güell is surely worth a visit as you might already know. If you can afford the entrance you should take a round and maybe spend a couple of hours discovering the park.

Here a quick tip for the more romantic weekend break: Of course there are the main spots like the terrace and basically the complete “lower” area of the park. Most of the recommended routes lead you here. But, if you are more the romantic type of person you might want to stay away from the main routes and have a look up the hill. There’s a great viewpoint at the top of the park, which is only a 10-15 minute walk from the central terrace.

Here are the maps you can download directly from the official Park Güell Website:

Stay tuned! This article is constantly changing and we will keep adding new cool activities for your city weekend break with your loved onces.

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