Adventurous Things to do in Barcelona

UPDATED DECEMBER 2024
adventure barcelona

Is the monotony of real life getting you down? Ever feel like your weeks pass without any...excitement? That all changes now. Book your vacation to Barcelona, pack your most badass sunglasses, and read on. Because we've found the most adventurous things to do in Barcelona, and we've written them down just for you.

Including:

  • Segway swerving
  • Cable climbing
  • Escape escapades
  • Watery wonders
  • Wave warping
  • and more!

 

Ciutadella Segway tour

Adventure means many things to many people. For some, it may be deemed adventurous to try a new type of chip. Paprika flavor, or something equally exotic. But people like you, surely you're looking for something completely out of your comfort zone. How about traveling on two wheels while standing up?

Now that's a segue...into Segway! Yes, you too can board your very own two-wheeled wonder and explore the beautiful Parc de la Ciutadella on this adventurous tour. And don't worry, if you've never operated this people magnet, you'll get a few lessons before burning off into the distance with your guide, at which point they'll impart key knowledge to keep your brain bulging all day. Learning and adventure? Say it isn't so.

 

Barcelona Cable Car

Do you like getting high? As in, high above the ground? Do you dare put your life and safety in the hands of a cable car? Well, if you do, then you'll love hopping aboard the Montjuïc Cable Car - the easiest and safest way to make it to the top of one of Barcelona's most picturesque places.

Built back when Barcelona hosted the 1992 Olympic Games, this 750m journey begins at Parc de Montjuïc before ascending - smoothly - towards

Castell de Montjuïc. Look out the window, and you'll see stunning sights such as Gaudi's great Sagrada Familia. Then, explore the castle, snap some pics, and hop on to return back to terra firma. Heart-pumping, gravity-defying fun!

 

Illa Fantasia Waterpark

Water; nature's life-giver. Over half of our bodies are made up of it. Hell, we need to drink it to survive. We should thank water. Every day. But that doesn't mean we can't have little fun with it.

That's why you adventurous types should sprint down to Illa Fantasia Waterpark, where you can bodaciously ride some sick water slides. Alongside the park's 22 thrilling slides, you can also take on the wave pool, and then, when you want to take a break, grab a bite at one of the park's many restaurants. Adventure. Fun. All in one. So why not check it out if you're the daring sort?

 

Escape Hunt Barcelona

Have you ever been stuck in a lift? It can be terrifying. No amount of button pushing, screaming, or door-banging can save you. You simply have to wait for maintenance to fix the issue. But, what if the lift was merely a challenge to overcome? What if there were a series of clues you had to solve to open the doors. Could you do it then?

Why not put your supposed lift-escaping powers to the test at Escape Hunt Barcelona. Yes, despite our overly-complex explanation, we're talking about escape rooms! Just a stone's throw from Sagrada Familia, you'll find six challenging rooms with puzzles to solve, clues to discover, and ultimately, one exit you need to open.

Can you solve the mystery of Gaudi and escape his artistic prison? Will you outsmart the Vampire of Barcelona's devious schemes? Can you break out of the School of Thieves? All of these questions, and more, will be answered when you head to Escape Hunt Barcelona! Oh, and the games can be played in English too, if you'd rather not make proceedings even harder than they already are.

 

Surfing

Let's go back to the water for our next choice on the list - surfing. There are no two ways about it; surfing is cool. It looks cool, cool people do it, and the thrill of riding the waves probably feels cool, literally. We wouldn't know, as we barely have the stomach for such adventure. But you probably do! So why not get on the waves and show that water who's boss?

Arguably the best place to catch waves in Barcelona is at Barceloneta Beach. So, if you've got the skills to pay the bills, feel free to grab a board, swim out, and get surfing! However, if you're a little green behind the ears and need a few pointers, why not try a surfing school? It's a great way to meet new people and make a fool of yourself while you learn. Then, when they least expect it, you can dazzle them with a flip or something. Now that's surfing!

 

Barcelona Bike Tour

Another great way to see more of the city while getting your blood pumping - cycle tours are one of the best adventurous things to do in Barcelona.

For three hours, your English-speaking guide will ride with you as you explore and learn all about the timeless city. Taking you through the likes of Old Town and the Raval Neighborhood, as well as riding past landmarks such as the Sagrada Familia and the Vila Olímpica, it's the perfect way to see the sights, catch some sun, and, more importantly, have fun! And don't forget your camera, because you can't pander to your 7 followers without taking a few snaps of your discoveries.

 

Scuba Diving

Let's end this list on, you guessed it, the water! Who knew everyone's favorite drink could be so packed full of adventure! This time, we're going deep underwater to explore the seabed. That's right, baby, it's scuba diving! What's more thrilling than being stuck underwater breathing through an oxygenated tube? Nothing, nothing at all.

You'll find plenty of diving schools throughout Barcelona, but if you want to err on the eco-friendly side, go with Underwater Barcelona. They pride themselves on being the only eco-diving company in town, so go check them out. They have a whole host of courses, services, and specialties on offer, so no matter your proficiency, they've got you covered.

And those are our picks for the most adventurous things to do in Barcelona!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do Alone in Barcelona

Sometimes, traveling alone can be just the thing. Whether you want to meet new people on your vacation, or simply have some time to yourself, plenty of people are heading overseas by themselves these days. So why not visit beautiful Barcelona, and discover all the things to do there when you're alone? If you're wondering what to add to the itinerary, wonder no longer, because we've put together a list of the best things to do alone in Barcelona just for you! Including: Gaudí's greatest hits Explore Polo Espanyol Barcelona Bus Tour Ancient Markets walking tour Explore beautiful Monserrat Get Gaudí One of Barcelona's biggest draws is the work of master architect Gaudí. The famed builder left his unique stamp all over the city, which he called home. So, clearly, if you want the authentic Barcelona experience, you'll need to see at least some of his awe-inspiring pieces. So strap in, because we're about to talk Gaudí and then some. First off on the Gaudí hit list is Casa Batlló, which is often considered his greatest work. This striking building is an amalgamation of bone-like columns, mosaic glass wonders, and mask-like balconies. It's no wonder it's known locally as the 'house of bones'! This 700m2 behemoth was once home to the Batlló family, hence the name. The Batlló family owned a textile manufacturing empire, which is why they were able to hire the man himself to redesign their house. Next on our hist list is arguably Gaudí's most iconic structure, the Sagrada Familia. Take a tour of the famed building a learn all about its history from a knowledgeable guide to get the full experience! Alongside seeing the fantastic decor, created with a fusion of art-nouveau and gothic styles, you'll discover why the cathedral wasn't finished before Gaudí's death. You'll also get an insight into the hidden Christian symbology that permeates both inside and out. Truly remarkable. Then, there's Park Güell, Barcelona's most recognizable green space, thanks to our man Gaudí's unique stamp. Make sure to take a guided tour of the grounds, as you'll not only have access to all the best bits, but you'll also learn about the rich history surrounding each remarkable building facade and piece of art contained within. Another of Gaudí's architectural marvels is undoubtedly La Pedrera. Built over six years at the start of the 20th century, it has his unique style written all over it. From its undulating limestone façade to its twisted chimneys and ironclad balconies, it's yet another pic-hungry stop on the Gaudí tour of excellence. You think we're done yet? We're not done yet. We're going back to the very beginning with the first building that Gaudí ever designed. Casa Vicens is its name, and within its Neo-Mudéjar exterior, you'll find a permanent collection of artifacts that explore the site's 130-year history. Go for the snap-worthy architecture; stay for the insightful learning experience. Or, if you want a more visceral Gaudí experience, ahem, try the Gaudí Experience 4D! It's an interactive, immersive experience that lets you explore the life and works of the master in new and exciting ways! It features hands-on displays and touchscreens, as well as the cinematic main event where you'll be taken on a ride through his inspirations. Your seat will move as you fly above trees that mutate into columns, and much more. It's a trippy experience, for sure, but one you should experience for yourself! Congratulations! You made it to the end. Whichever way you choose to celebrate the famed architect, any of the above are easily some of the best things to do in Barcelona if you're traveling alone. Marco...Polo? If you're looking for more of a historical exploration of Catalan architecture and culture, go see Poble Espanyol. This open-air architectural museum is one of the best things to do in Barcelona if you're traveling alone. There, you'll get an insight into how different parts of the city have changed and evolved through time. This city-within-a-city contains 117 buildings, streets, and squares that recreate large parts of the city, from ancient neighborhoods to revolutionary Spain's city streets. And, on top of this mesmerizing amalgamation of history, you'll also find over 300 contemporary artworks from famous Catalan artists. Be sure to get snaps of greats by Dali, Picasso, and many more!. You can also pick up some authentic souvenirs from the onsite smiths, leatherworkers, and jewelry makers! Barcelona by bus If you're looking to see all of the city's sights in the comfort of a cushioned chair, then why not take a hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Barcelona? If you already have a packed itinerary, it's the perfect way to see everything in just a few hours. You can also get off whenever you like if you want to take a closer look at one of the city's iconic landmarks, then hop on the next one to continue the tour. Your ticket lasts for 24 hours, so feel free to make the most of it! Highlights include the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and the Mercat de Sarrià, so you'll have plenty of picture opportunities to leave your social media following in the dirt. Marketing 101 Want a closer look at Barcelona's timeless market scene? Why not take a tour of the ancient markets that still stand tall today? If you're looking for things to do alone in Barcelona, this should be high on your list! With an experienced guide in tow, you'll kick proceedings off at Boqueria Market, one of Barcelona's best. While you're learning about the market's history and traditions, you'll be able to pick up some fantastic fresh produce or delicious local snacks. Then, you'll travel through the beautiful Ramblas promenade, a former flower market that is now full of cafes, flower stands, and beautiful scenery. You'll end up at the Santa Caterina Market in the Gothic Quarter, a bustling marketplace known for its brightly-colored roof inspired by the plentiful fruits and vegetables on offer. And finally, you'll end the tour at El Born, a former market that has transformed into a residential neighborhood. The steel and glass design is sure to delight, and is more than worthy of a few snaps. Escape to the mountain And finally, we'll end this list on a bit of a cheat, because you'll need to leave the city for this one. However, it's more than worth it. Visit the picturesque Monsterrat without worrying about transportation, and explore this beautiful location for as long as you want! Start your journey on a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, then ascend Monserrat and take in the spectacular views of the city. Cameras at the ready, people; you're not going to want to miss a beat. Then, when you get up to the top, you can explore at your leisure. Go for a hike, or visit the nearby monastery. It's entirely up to you, and no one can tell you otherwise! And that's our list of the best things to do in Barcelona when traveling alone!
Dom Bewley
Interior of Casa Batlló
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Casa Batlló Vs Casa Milà Comparison - Gaudí Houses Compared

Gaudí masterpieces don’t come much more spectacular than Casa Batlló and Casa Milá, eye-popping architectural stars of Barcelona’s fashionable Eixample district. Designed and completed by Gaudí in the early 20th Century, these near-neighbors should be considered bucket listers for aficionados of the maestro’s work. Though, frankly, they’re pretty much essential viewing for anyone who possesses a) even a passing interest in unusual architectural design and/or b) an Instagram account. We took a closer look at these iconic Gaudí houses in our Casa Batlló Vs Casa Milà comparison. Scroll for the lowdown… Antoni Gaudí: a (Very) Short History Born in rural Catalonia in 1852, Antoni Gaudí i Cornet rose from humble beginnings to become the chief exponent of Catalan Modernisme, popularizing an architectural style that’s near-impossible to categorize but is always distinctly, inimitably Gaudí. His calling cards included geometrical forms, neo-Gothic flair, colorful mosaic tiling and structures influenced by his deep love of nature – think bones, tree trunks, butterfly wings, and so on. The majority of Gaudí’s buildings – 12 in all – can be found in Barcelona, and are among the most-visited attractions in town. We’re talking the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Vicens and two of his most flamboyant confections: the UNESCO-listed Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, all of which are included with a Barcelona pass from Go City. Find out more about the pass and how to get yours here. Casa Batlló: The Lowdown Name: Casa Batlló is named for textile magnate Josep Batlló, who commissioned Gaudí’s building redesign in 1904. It’s known locally as the casa dels ossos (house of bones), for reasons which will become apparent… Vital Statistics: Completed in 1906, it took 99 years before Casa Batlló was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. It’s located on the stylish Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona’s Eixample district, and is one of the city’s most popular attractions, welcoming around a million visitors every year.  Casa Batlló in Brief: Casa Batlló is a pure flight of fantasy, with a hallucinatory exterior that will appeal to everybody from high-art aficionados to fans of Game of Thrones. Considered one of Gaudí’s crowning glories, it’s truly a sight to behold. The striking dragon-crest roof fairly shimmers with blue-and-green ‘dragon scale’ tiles. Glass, stone and ceramic mosaic gives the facade a textured, rough-hewn look, while the skeletal carapace and creepy skull-mask balconies on the lower levels are what earned Casa Batlló its ‘house of bones’ nickname. Things are no less bonkers inside, where the staircase is designed to resemble a spine and the entrance hall feels  a bit like being in an underwater cave, complete with tortoise-shell skylights. Three Highlights of Casa Batlló: The Noble Floor. The former residence of the Batlló family features a gently undulating ceiling, mushroom-shaped fireplace and huge gallery which protrudes far over the Passeig de Gràcia. Roof Terrace. Ogle fairytale mosaiced chimneys and get close-up views of the dragon’s scaly back. Indoor Garden. This highly decorative terrace, with colorfully tiled floor and flowerpots is a tiny oasis in the heart of Barcelona. Casa Milà: The Lowdown Name: Casa Milà is more commonly known locally as La Pedrera, aka ‘the quarry’, thanks to its unusual rough-hewn facade. Vital Statistics: The last house Gaudí worked on before applying himself full-time to the Sagrada Família, Casa Milá was built between 1906 and 1912, and designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984. No more or less popular than its near-neighbor Casa Batlló, La Pedrera also attracts around a million annual visitors. Casa Milá in Brief: La Pedrera was pretty controversial when it was first built. And by controversial we mean the locals hated it. Hence the somewhat unfair nickname. History has of course been much kinder to Gaudí’s legacy and this Barcelona icon is now widely accepted to be one of the finest examples of Catalan Modernisme, all sinuous limestone curves, intricate wrought-iron balconies, and soaring mosaic-clad chimneys. Great paintings, tapestries and frescoes adorn the eye-popping interiors; rooms are also kitted out with curvaceous furnishings by Gaudí himself, each designed to slot seamlessly into the building’s flowing waves and curves. Three Highlights of Casa Milá: Roof Terrace: a total of 28 extraordinary warrior-like stone chimneys stand sentinel on the Casa Milá rooftop, vying for attention against some fairly spectacular 360-degree views of the city skyline. The Whale Attic. Come over all Jonah as you enter what appears to be the belly of a leviathan, thanks to 270 arches representing a whale’s ribcage. If that’s not enough, there’s also a quite excellent Gaudí exhibition to explore up here. Courtyards don’t come much trippier than La Pedrera’s Flower Courtyard and Butterfly Courtyard, in which you can expect fantastical shapes and colors, complemented by beautiful blooms and great Ballard-esque insects that are quite at odds with the far more sober exterior. Casa Batlló Vs Casa Milà Comparison: Which is Best? Who could possibly pick a favorite from these two extraordinary Gaudí Houses? Both Casa Batlló and Casa Milà are like nothing you’ve seen before, each with its own set of architectural quirks and fantastic visual spectacles. Here’s the good news: you don’t have to visit just one or the other. Not only are these dreamlike townhouses just a few minutes’ walk from each other; both are included with a Barcelona pass from Go City. The pass is ideal if you’re planning to see a number of top attractions on your vacation, and includes entry to Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, plus other Gaudí masterpieces including Casa Vicens and tours of the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. It also gives you access to many more Barcelona tours, activities and attractions, like the Picasso Museum and Barcelona Zoo, and could save you up to 50% on regular prices. Find out more about the pass and get yours here. Save on Attractions, Tours and Activities in Barcelona Save money on Barcelona attractions, tours and activities with a pass from Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
quirky barcelona
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Quirky Things to do in Barcelona

Are you a bit different from others? Do you lean on the eccentric side? You're welcome here, friend. Gather round, and we'll tell you exactly you can unleash the quirky beast inside you. Barcelona, of course! If you're looking for fun things to do in the Catalan capital that err on the strange side, then you've come to the right place. Here, we'll let you know which are our favorite quirky things to do in Barcelona! Including: Moco Museum Barcelona Segway tour Gaudí Experiència 4D Museum of Illusions and Big Fun Museum Escape Hunt Barcelona and more!   Moco Mayhem Let's kick off our quirky escapades with some leftfield artworks! At the Moco Museum Barcelona, you can find weird and wonderful works from artists past and present. You'll find this modern art marvel at a rather historic place, as it's located in Palacio Cervelló - the former residence of the noble Cervelló family. But step inside its history-soaked walls, and you'll be transported to a world of experimental art, mind-boggling displays, and works that challenge your beliefs and ideology. Soak up pieces from the likes of Banksy, Dali, Warhol, and LaChapelle, which take center stage beside other brilliant works from lesser-known artists.   Segway Sliding Say what you want about Segways, but they're nothing if not quirky. So, why not take one for a spin and let your quirky side shine at Parc de la Ciutadella with a guided tour on two wheels? And don't worry if you're not a Segway pro; every attendee gets a brief introduction to the art of zooming before you set off around the park, soaking up the beautiful green space and seeing the sights. Highlights of the tour include Barcelona zoo, the park's Cascada fountain, and the city's own Arc de Triomf. But really, the star of the show is you, aboard your own personal electronic chariot, embracing your quirky ancestors in all your glory. Easily one of the most quirky things to do in Barcelona, so put your silliest sunglasses on and get to it!   4D Fun If you're visiting Barcelona, you probably have some idea who Gaudí is. For those who don't, let's do a quick recap: one of the world's most famous architects, worked almost exclusively in Barcelona (his hometown), and you'll see his weird and wonderful creations everywhere. There, lesson over. Gaudí's been gone for nearly 100 years at this point, so for the past century, all you could really do was visit his exquisite buildings to get a better idea of the man himself. But not anymore, because now, you can revisit the man, the legend, and his many works in four dimensions! At the Gaudí Experience 4D, you'll get hands-on with digital interpretations of his work, and then plant your bum in a cinema seat as you're transported into his mind. Learn how the world shaped his creations as your seat moves and you feel the wind in your face. It's a truly breathtaking experience, and one we'd highly recommend even if you know nothing about him.   Illusions and confusion What's better than entering one weird and wonderful museum? Well, that would be entering two for the same price! And that deal can be yours if you head to the Museum of Illusions and the adjoining Big Fun Museum! These perspective-defying museums are easily one of the most quirky things to do in Barcelona. At the Big Fun Museum, you'll be shrunk to the size of an ant as you explore the Giant's House. As the name would suggest, everything is comically large, including a shoe, and giant-sized donuts. Very cool. At the Museum of Illusions, you'll walk through 3D paintings by some of Barcelona's most prominent painters. You may feel you can reach out and touch elements of the display, but it's an illusion. You can touch nothing. Look out for dinosaurs, spaceships, and other weird and wonderful things as you fumble your way through this fantastic museum. Great for kids (and bigger kids).   Escape for your life What could be quirkier than being stuck in a room, time ticking away, as you attempt to solve riddles, find clues, and escape? Nothing, really, which is why we owe it to ourselves to include Escape Hunt Barcelona on our list of quirky things to do in Barcelona! This massive escape complex can fit up to 34 people inside (across the facility's 6 rooms), so if you're somehow traveling with nearly three-dozen people, it's the perfect place to get quirky. If you're feeling daring, you can even challenge another team in another room to see who will escape first. And, with stories including Gaudi, Vampiresses, and thieves schools, you're more than likely to have a wail of a time.   Crypt compadres And finally, let's end this list on something a little different. This one's on the macabre side, but we'd still color it quirky. Venture just outside of the city to Colonia Güell, and you'll find a strange village with a secret. Not only is this weird and wonderful throwback founded by the very same Eusebio Güell, responsible for the eponymous Park Güell, but it's also the final resting place of the late, great Gaudi himself, whose works are all over the park! Created back in the late 1800s, Colonia Güell is something of an oddity itself. It's an entirely manufactured town, built by Güell and a hoard of architects with modernism in mind. Then, once you've explored this megalithic art piece slash town, head down to Gaudi's tomb, which is a work of art in itself. Made up of anti-geometric shapes and vibrant colors, Gaudi professed it would have been a monument dedicated to Sagrada Familia, if he'd lived long enough to see it complete. And that's our list of the most quirky things to do in Barcelona! Looking for more fun things to fill your vacation days in the city? Stretch your legs and your mind with Barcelona's best walking tours. Want to soak up some sun, lounge in some sand by the sea, and take a load off? Browse the city's best beaches. Need a bite to eat, or some fresh food in a pinch? Head to one of Barcelona's excellent markets.
Dom Bewley

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