Various busts on display at the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya

Best Art Galleries in Barcelona

Barcelona’s cultural wealth would be nothing if not for its many celebrated artists and artistic movements. Famous for its rich diversity of architecture and its output of such renowned figures as Antoni Gaudí, Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró, the Catalan capital is brimming with fantastic examples of creative expression.

To honor and preserve the works of its famous artists, Barcelona is full of museums and art galleries exploring their art, inspirations and lives in great detail. While it may be tricky to keep count of the city’s many cultural hubs, we’ve put together this directory of some of the best art galleries in Barcelona for you to mix into your itinerary.

Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC)

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Housed within the impressive halls of the Palau Nacional in Montjuïc, the MNAC boasts a collection of a thousand years of visual art from throughout the Catalonia region. Standing as the largest and most significant museum in Barcelona, the MNAC features the world’s largest collection of Roman frescoes and the most important collection of Catalan art.

Exhibitions cover various different forms and eras of artistic expression, from religious art to civil war propaganda. It also offers an insight into the evolution of art movements throughout the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, as neoclassicism makes way for realism and the region’s celebrated art nouveau movement of modernism.

Museu Picasso

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Spread across five Gothic palaces within the popular Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, the Museu Picasso is home to one of the world’s most complete collections of Pablo Picasso’s works. The museum prides itself on providing a key insight into the artist’s early life and career, having spent his formative years studying in Barcelona.

With a collection of more than 4,000 pieces donated by various aristocrats, other Barcelona museums and Picasso himself, exhibitions vary throughout the year to explore different aspects of the painter’s life, inspirations and art style.

Fundació Joan Miró

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Dedicated to the celebrated Catalan artist Joan Miró, this modern art museum was established by Miró himself in 1975. Widely considered one of Barcelona’s most influential artists, with examples of his art visible throughout the city today, Miró donated the majority of his works to the Fundació in the spirit of making art publicly available.

Now one of the most significant attractions atop Montjuïc, the Fundació is home to over 10,000 paintings, sculptures, drawings, carpets and other such pieces. The museum serves to honor the life and art of both Miró and other comparable modern artists, such as Joan Prats, Kazumasa Katsutas and Miró’s own wife, Pilar Juncosa.

Museu d'Art Contemporani (MACBA)

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Situated in Plaça dels Àngels in the Raval district of Barcelona, the MACBA serves as both a contemporary art gallery and a statement to the cultural and political importance of artistic expression. Initially established in 1959 by art critic Alexandre Cirici Pellicer, one of the museum’s earliest exhibitions, ‘Art and Peace’, was set up in 1963 in indirect protest of the Franco dictatorship.

While this political provocation brought a brief end to the organization, the project was revived in 1985 by the then Minister of Culture of Catalonia. It wouldn’t be until 1995, however, that the gallery was officially opened to the public, after decades of changes in political policies and ownership.

With a primary focus on the latter half of the twentieth century, the MACBA showcases contemporary art in its many forms and from various different prominent names. Exhibitions change every three to six months to showcase different painters, sculptors, filmmakers and other contemporary artists, along with various events, conferences and workshops to complement them.

CaixaForum

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Opened in 2002 in the restored Casa Casarramona clothing factory at the foot of Montjuïc, CaixaForum is considered to house one of the most important collections of contemporary art in Europe. The museum is owned and sponsored by the Caixa banking foundation, and serves as their proprietary social and cultural center.

Originally constructed by celebrated Catalan architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch, the building itself stands as a monument to the Catalan Art Nouveau movement of Modernism. Caixa’s acquisition of the site allowed for its restoration and extension, preserving its original style while also incorporating more modern stylistic features.

Over 800 permanent exhibits showcase the works of prominent contemporary artists such as Anish Kapoor and Tony Cragg, while an additional three rooms house temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Previous exhibitions have explored the works of Salvador Dalí and various specific aspects of the contemporary art world as a whole.

Museu del Modernisme de Català

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Perhaps the most famous art movement to come out of Barcelona, and indeed Catalonia as a whole, is the Catalan Art Nouveau movement known as Modernism. Perpetuated by such creative visionaries as celebrated architect Antoni Gaudí, the works of modernist artists can be found scattered throughout much of the city.

The Museu del Modernisme is located on Carrer de Balmes, close to the Universitat de Barcelona. In maintaining its character, the building itself was built in the modernist style in the early twentieth century, originally serving as a factory and residential complex.

Featuring over 350 works by 42 artists of multiple different disciplines, it houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture and other artworks created in various forms of the modernist style.

Museu Can Framis

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Established in 2009 within a former factory building in the hip Poblenou district, the Museu Can Framis is home to the contemporary art collection of the Fundació Vila Casas. The museum features some 300 works by artists born or residing in Catalonia from the 1960s onwards. Its photography exhibition is the only exception to this rule, showcasing the works of both local and international photographers.

The museum hosts a series of temporary exhibitions throughout the year with a specific focus on individual artists. One exhibition per year is reserved for the Fundació Vila Casas open art competition, within which the winner has the opportunity to showcase their work.

Centre d'Art Santa Mònica

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Built upon the former seventeenth-century Convent de Santa Mònica a little ways off La Rambla, the Centre d'Art Santa Mònica stands as a celebration of art as a whole. Its diverse exhibitions cover all artistic disciplines from design and photography to performing arts and music.

The museum showcases various different traveling exhibitions, from artists both local and international. As such, its collection never remains the same, offering a wholly unique experience every few months. Its main focus is to provide an exploration of creative expression and innovation, whether through architecture, literature, design, gastronomy, music or any other artistic medium.

Robert Heaney
Go City Travel Expert

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Madrid to Barcelona
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Top Tips for Traveling from Barcelona to Madrid

Navigating Spain: your ultimate guide to traveling from Barcelona to Madrid By Mia Russell Spain, a land of rich culture, captivating history, and diverse landscapes, beckons travelers to explore its iconic cities. Among them, Barcelona and Madrid stand as pillars of Spanish identity, each offering unique charm. Navigating the journey from Barcelona to Madrid isn't just a matter of distance; it's an opportunity to witness the beauty of the Spanish heartland and immerse yourself in the essence of the Iberian Peninsula. Let’s look at the best ways to travel and make the most of your travel experience. 1. High-Speed Rail: a swift connection Spain boasts one of the world's most efficient high-speed rail networks, the AVE (Alta Velocidad Española), which connects the country's major cities efficiently and comfortably. Traveling from Barcelona to Madrid by train is not only a convenient option but also a chance to witness the beautiful Spanish landscapes in comfort. Distance and duration The distance between Barcelona and Madrid is approximately 620 kilometers (385 miles) in a straight line. The AVE train, known for its swift speeds, covers this distance in around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the specific route and train type. So, you can enjoy breakfast in Barcelona and arrive in Madrid before lunch! Train types and classes Several AVE train services operate on the Barcelona-Madrid route. The most common types are the Standard Class (Turista) and the First Class (Preferente). Standard Class offers comfortable seats, onboard services, and sometimes the option to purchase snacks and drinks. If you're looking for a touch of luxury, consider First Class (Preferente), where you'll enjoy spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and access to VIP lounges in some stations. Booking and costs Booking your AVE train ticket is easy and can be done online, at train stations, or through authorized travel agents. Ticket prices can vary based on factors such as time of booking, class, and availability. On average, Standard Class tickets cost between €60 and €100, while First Class tickets range from €90 to €150, with possible discounts for children, seniors, and groups. Amenities and comfort Expect a comfortable journey aboard the AVE. You'll find spacious seating with ample legroom, convenient power outlets, and sometimes even Wi-Fi access. Some trains have designated spaces for luggage, making your trip even smoother. If you're lucky, onboard dining services might also be available. Station information Your Barcelona departure point is typically Barcelona Sants Station (Estació de Sants), a major railway hub offering various amenities like shops, restaurants, and waiting areas. Upon reaching Madrid, you'll arrive at Madrid Atocha Station (Estación de Atocha), a historic and architecturally impressive station with a lush, indoor tropical garden. Tips for a smooth journey Book in advance: get the best fares and ensure availability by booking your AVE train tickets well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Check timetables: AVE trains run frequently throughout the day, so you can select a departure time that suits your schedule. Stay connected: while some trains offer Wi-Fi, it's a good idea to have entertainment, reading materials, or work to keep yourself occupied during the journey. Arrive early: arriving at the station before departure allows you to navigate any check-in procedures, find your platform, and settle in comfortably. Enjoy the scenery: sit back, relax, and take in the beautiful Spanish countryside as you speed from Barcelona to Madrid. 2. The scenic drive: a budget-friendly bus trip Embarking on a journey from Barcelona to Madrid by bus offers a cost-effective and scenic way to traverse the Spanish landscape. This adventure allows you to witness the changing landscapes and charming towns as you journey through the heart of the Iberian Peninsula. Distance and duration The distance between Barcelona and Madrid is approximately 620 kilometers (385 miles) when measured in a straight line. However, the actual distance covered by bus might be longer due to road networks and designated routes. On average, the bus journey takes around seven to nine hours, depending on traffic conditions, stops, and your bus's specific route. Bus options Several reputable bus companies operate between Barcelona and Madrid, offering various options to cater to different preferences and budgets. Providers like ALSA, Avanza, and FlixBus are known for their reliable service and comfortable amenities. Amenities and comfort Modern buses are designed with your comfort in mind. Enjoy features such as spacious reclining seats, air conditioning for a pleasant ride, restrooms on board for convenience, Wi-Fi to stay connected (availability varies), power outlets, and even entertainment options to keep you engaged during the journey. Booking and costs Book your bus ticket online through the respective bus company's website or authorized booking platforms. Ticket prices vary based on factors such as the time of booking, the type of bus, and whether you opt for basic or premium services. On average, bus fares range from €30 to €60, making it a budget-friendly choice. Bus stations In Barcelona, the primary departure point is Estació del Nord (Barcelona Nord Bus Station), which is easily accessible and well-equipped with facilities for travelers. Upon reaching Madrid, you will arrive at Estación Sur de Autobuses (Madrid South Bus Station), where you'll find amenities like waiting areas, restaurants, and information services. Stops and breaks Bus journeys typically include rest stops where you can stretch your legs, use restrooms, and grab a quick snack. These stops offer a chance to break up the journey, recharge, and enjoy some fresh air before continuing. Tips for a smooth trip Plan ahead: to secure your preferred departure time and seat, consider booking your bus ticket in advance, especially during peak travel. Pack snacks and essentials: while some buses offer refreshments, it's a good idea to bring along snacks, water, reading material, and any personal items you might need. Comfortable attire: dress in comfortable clothing and bring a light sweater or jacket to stay comfortable throughout the journey. Stay entertained: pack entertainment like books, podcasts, or movies to keep yourself engaged during the ride. Arrive early: arriving at the bus station before departure gives you ample time to locate your bus, store your luggage, and get settled. 3. Air travel: quick aerial connection If time is of the essence, you may want to consider taking a domestic flight. Distance and duration The straight-line distance between Barcelona and Madrid is approximately 505 kilometers (314 miles). Flights between these two cities are quick, with an average flight duration of around 1.5 to 2 hours. This means you can enjoy breakfast in one city and explore the other well before lunchtime. Airlines and flights Numerous airlines operate regular flights connecting Barcelona's El Prat Airport and Madrid's Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport. Airlines like Vueling, Iberia, Ryanair, and Air Europa offer various options to cater to different schedules and budgets. Amenities and comfort Modern aircraft are equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. You can expect features like ergonomic seating, in-flight entertainment systems, onboard services, and sometimes Wi-Fi connectivity to keep you engaged and connected during the flight. Booking and costs Booking your flight is convenient and can be done online through airline websites, travel agencies, or booking platforms. Ticket prices vary depending on factors such as the time of booking, availability, and class of travel. On average, flight costs range from €50 to €150, with possible discounts for early bookings or special offers. Airports Departure takes place from Barcelona El Prat Airport, which is well-equipped with facilities for travelers, including shops, restaurants, and lounges. Upon landing in Madrid, you'll arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, a major international hub that offers various amenities to cater to your needs. Transportation to and from airports Both airports are well-connected to their respective cities via public transportation options like buses, trains, and taxis. Plan ahead for transportation or familiarize yourself with the options available upon arrival. Tips for a seamless flight Book ahead: secure the best fares and preferred flight times by booking your air travel in advance, particularly during busy travel seasons. Pack light: opt for carry-on luggage to simplify your travel experience and save time at check-in and baggage claim. Stay informed: keep an eye on your flight's status by using airline apps or monitoring airport information screens for updates. Entertainment and essentials: bring entertainment like books, music, or digital content to enjoy during the flight. Don't forget essentials like snacks, a travel pillow, and necessary medications. Relax and enjoy: sit back, relax, and take in the aerial view of Spain as you glide from Barcelona to Madrid. Hit the open road: Barcelona to Madrid by car If you love the freedom of exploring at your own pace, a road trip from Barcelona to Madrid might be just what you're looking for. Traveling by car allows you to take in the scenic Spanish landscapes and make spontaneous stops along the way. Distance and duration The distance between Barcelona and Madrid is approximately 620 kilometers (385 miles) when taking the most direct route. However, remember that the distance covered might vary based on the way you choose and any detours you take. On average, the road trip takes around six to seven hours of driving time, excluding stops. Routes and roads You can take several routes to drive from Barcelona to Madrid, including the AP-2 and AP-7 highways. Having a GPS navigation system or a reliable map handy is an excellent idea to ensure a smooth journey. Costs and fuel The cost of the road trip depends on factors like fuel prices, tolls (if applicable), and vehicle efficiency. Check fuel prices before your journey and factor in any toll fees along your chosen route. Amenities and comfort Driving your own car allows you to control your comfort level. You can make stops whenever you wish, stretch your legs, and enjoy the convenience of having your belongings readily accessible. Tips for a memorable road trip Plan ahead: map out your route, estimated travel time, and potential stops before hitting the road. Traveling during off-peak hours can help you avoid heavy traffic, especially around urban areas. Plan your departure time to make the most of your driving experience. Essentials and snacks: pack essentials like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and any necessary medications. Stay alert: take regular breaks to stay refreshed and alert while driving. Plan stops at scenic viewpoints to appreciate the surroundings. Stay charged: ensure your phone and other electronic devices are charged and ready for navigation and communication. Enjoy the journey: take advantage of the freedom a road trip offers by discovering hidden gems and capturing the essence of Spain along the way. Places to explore en route Discover Zaragoza As you journey from Barcelona to Madrid, consider making a pit stop in Zaragoza. This historic city, situated halfway between the two metropolises, boasts architectural wonders like the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar and Aljafería Palace. Immerse yourself in local culture by enjoying traditional tapas in the bustling Plaza del Pilar. Embrace high altitude in Montes Universales If you're up for a scenic detour, venture into Montes Universales, a mountain range offering hiking trails, tranquil lakes, and picturesque villages. This is an opportunity to escape the conventional route and connect with nature's beauty. Delve into Cuenca's beauty Another captivating stop on your journey is Cuenca, famed for its hanging houses and dramatic gorge views. Stroll through the medieval streets, visit the Cuenca Cathedral, and take in the breathtaking vistas from the Hanging Houses. Feast on Castilian cuisine As you travel through Castile, indulge in the region's culinary treasures. Savor the rich flavors of roast lamb, hearty stews, and local cheeses at roadside eateries and village taverns. Madrid's grandeur As you arrive in Madrid, prepare to embrace the capital's energy and grandeur. Wander through the historic streets, marvel at the Royal Palace, and immerse yourself in art at the renowned Prado Museum. Final Thoughts The journey from Barcelona to Madrid isn't just about reaching a destination; it's about immersing yourself in Spain's diverse landscapes, cultures, and traditions. Whether you choose high-speed rail, a scenic road trip, or a combination of modes, each option offers a unique perspective on the beauty that lies between these two captivating cities. So, embrace the road ahead and let the Spanish heartland weave its enchantment around you.
Go City Expert
Best Bus Tours in Barcelona
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Best Bus Tours in Barcelona

If you want to make the most of an inevitably too-short vacation, where better to see the sights in one go than on a bus tour? With comfortable seating, air conditioning, and a guide in tow, you'll learn all about the city's best bits without overexerting yourself. So, if you're heading to Barcelona this year, you'll want to know which are the best bus tours in the city. Luckily, we've written all about them down below! So, take your seat and get ready to sing annoying bus-themed children's songs. All aboard! Including: Is there a bus tour of Barcelona? Are tours in Barcelona worth it? How many days is ideal for Barcelona? The best bus tours in Barcelona Is there a bus tour of Barcelona? We'd be wasting our time if there were no bus tours in Barcelona, so fear not. But we deal in nothing but the best here, so expect only the best detailed down below! Are tours in Barcelona worth it? Bus tours are one of the best ways to see as much of a new city as possible without worrying about taking public transport or driving on unfamiliar roads with illegible road signs and whatnot. How many days is ideal for Barcelona? Some cities are easy enough to do in a day—others, not so much. Barcelona firmly falls in the latter category, with a veritable mountain of history, experiences, and things to see; ideally, you need to take between 3 and 4 days to see it all. And that's just as well, because we have four of the best bus tours in Barcelona to talk about! What are the odds? So, now we've answered all your burning Barcelona questions, let's talk about the best bus tours in the city! The best bus tours in Barcelona Bus Turístic Tour If you want to see all of the city's best bits in one fell swoop, you won't get much better than a Bus Turístic Tour! With three routes to choose from, each taking you past many of the city's most recognizable landmarks, it's not just a great way to see it all in a day, but also to get your bearings in a new city. Your ticket gives you 24 hours on your bus of choice, and each one allows you to hop off at any stop that takes your fancy, have a look around and snap some vacation pics, and then hop back on the next bus and carry on with your journey! Plus, with 16 languages available via audio commentary, you'll learn all about them no matter where you're from. So, let's explore the three routes and what sights you'll be seeing on each! The Blue Route (around 2 hours in total) kicks things off at Placa de Catalunya before heading past some of Gaudí's most famous buildings, including Casa Battló, the Sagrada Familia, and Parc Guell, before heading on to the famous Camp Nou soccer stadium, where FC Barcelona ply their trade, before ending at the museums of MACBA & CCCB. There are plenty more stops in between, but talking about them would take days. Check out the full list here. The Red Route (again, around 2 hours) also leaves from Placa de Catalunya before heading through La Pedrera, Poble Espanyol, Montjuic, and many more, before ending at Barcelona Zoo. And finally, the Green Route is the shortest of all the tours, lasting just 40 minutes from end to end. On this one, you'll see Port Olimpic, Platja del Bogatell, Parc del Forum, and Parc Diagonal Mar before ending at Poblenou & its beaches. Whichever you pick, Bus Turístic Tours are some of the best in Barcelona. Andorra and France from Barcelona Typically, bus tours in Barcelona focus on the city itself or the areas in and around the city. But what if we told you that one of the best lets you see not one, not two, but three countries all in one day? You'd call us liars, surely? Well, we're not, and we can prove it. Take this Andorra and France from Barcelona tour, and you'll retract your accusation faster than you can say, "Three countries? One day? That's wild!" But what will you be seeing on your three-country tour? Well, you'll witness magnificent views of the Pyrenees as you travel between Barcelona and Andorra, where you'll stop at Thermes d'Ax, where your guide will show you the top sights, such as Casa de la Vall, San Esteve XII Century Church, and Dali ́s Watch. Then, you'll hit Andorra's streets for some great shopping opportunities, with plenty to pick for yourself, as well as souvenirs for back home. And finally, you'll reach El Pas de la Casa, which sits on the border between France and Spain, where you're free to cross the dividing line and stand in two countries at the same time. Marvelous. Montserrat One of Barcelona's most beautiful sights isn't even in the city itself, but about an hour's drive away. It's called Montserrat - or the serrated mountain - and it houses one of the area's best-kept secrets. And, with this bus tour, you needn't make the journey alone. At sunrise, you'll be picked up from Plaza de Catalunya first thing by an air-conditioned bus. From there, you'll make your journey up the mountain's many winding roads before finally reaching the top. From there, you can explore at your own pace. There's so much to see that we dedicated an entire article to it all, but if you haven't got time to read all those words, make sure you at least check out the nearly 1000-year-old Santa Maria de Montserrat Benedictine Monastery. Then, when you're all sigh-seed out, your bus will take you right back into the heart of Barcelona. Easily one of the best bus tours in the city. Vineyard & Wine Cellar Day Trip And finally, our final pick of the best bus tours in Barcelona is for grape enjoyers. After all, if you like a tipple, you could hardly visit Barcelona and not check out the wine scene! So why not go to the source on this Vineyard & Wine Cellar day trip? Hop aboard a bus and head out into the outskirts of Catalonia, where you'll visit local vineyards and wineries, find out how the good stuff is made, and even try some for yourself. Does it get much better than that? No, it does not. And those were our picks of the best bus tours in Barcelona! If you don't want to spend your entire vacation on a four-wheeled wonder, see all of Barcelona's best bits with Go City! Choose our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass and make the most of the city's top attractions for one low price!
Dom Bewley
cheap barcelona
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Cheap Things to do in Barcelona

It can be tough managing your vacation fund, what with the travel, accommodation, and the urge to try every new type of food you come across. So, if you've drained the pot and have a couple days left in the city, you'll want some cheap things to do in Barcelona. Worry not, friend; we've got you covered. These are our pics of the best cheap things to do in Barcelona! Including: Museu d'Historia de Catalunya Park Güell Barceloneta Beach Picasso Museum Explore Old Town and more!   History, city style Barcelona, while technically in Spain, is actually the capital of Catalonia, a region of the country that has its own language and economy. So, if you want to learn more about Catalonian history and culture, check out Museu d'Historia de Catalunya. It's only €8 to get in, and entry is completely free on the first Sunday of the month. So really, you have no excuse not to check it out and absorb some sweet, sweet culture.   Gaudí, not gaudy! For those not in the know, Gaudi was one of the world's most renowned architects. And if you're vacationing in Barcelona, it's impossible to not see his influence. From the Sagrada Familia to Casa Batlló, his works are literally everywhere. The same can be said for Park Güell, one of the city's best and brightest green spaces. Feel free to stroll around and see the park's sights for yourself, but due to Gaudi's worldwide popularity, some of the park's more awe-inspiring features are behind a paywall. So why not take a guided tour of the park, learn more about Gaudi and the gardens, and see everything up close?   Get your beach on Sun, sand, and sea - the ideal components for the perfect vacation. If you're visiting Barcelona, you'll want to check out the beach scene. Arguably the city's biggest and best beach is Barceloneta, and given it's a public beach, it's ultimately free to go! Bring your towel and sunscreen, find a spot to spread out, and soak up those powerful UV rays. And, if you get bored, hungry, or thirsty, there are plenty of activities, restaurants, and bars right on the beachfront. Easily one of the best cheap things to do in Barcelona. And, if you're looking for something less crowded or child-friendly, we've done a deep dive on every beach in the city. Find whichever suits you best and make it your own.   Picasso Museum Picasso is one of the most famed painters of the last millennia, with his works paving the way for Cubism and collages, and having captured the horrors of war in his own unique style. Having lived through periods of great upheaval during the 20th century, it's no wonder people want to know more about his life. Enter the Picasso Museum, where you'll learn more about his life through his works, from his more realist youth to his more creative peak. Every Sunday from 3-7pm, it's completely free to enter, and the turnstiles stay open all day on the first Sunday of the month. Or, if you want a more curated experience, take a guided tour of the museum and learn even more about the famed painter.   Explore Old Town Take a step back in time to Barcelona's Old Town and Gothic Quarter. Much of the city's Medieval architecture still stands, and you'll find more than a few Grammable opportunities should your social media need some attention. Get lost in a maze of cobbled streets, residential corridors, and ancient markets. Or, get very much more familiar with the area on a guided tour! Learn about Barcelona's long history, and the many different factions and cultures that have called it home for over a thousand years.   Picnic in a park Parks are brilliant, aren't they? A portal into the rural, they let you escape the busy city and just relax in a perfect pocket of nature. Luckily for you, Barcelona is brimming with green spaces. So, no matter what kinda thing you're looking for, you'll find the perfect park for you. Relax in Parc de Montjuïc's botanical gardens and explore the planet's different climates in its myriad greenhouses. Get lost in the green at Parc del Laberint d'Horta's maze. Then, when you've escaped, explore the surrounding gardens and the ancient medieval palace. Or, take a refreshing break at Parc de la Ciutadella, thanks to the massive water features and fountains. Each of these is a prime location for a picnic. So pick a park, pack a basket, and go touch some grass!   Cosmic culture Need some awe-inspiring sights to brighten up your Earthbound day? Look no further than Barcelona's very own science museum at CosmoCaixa. With over 30,000sq meters of brilliant exhibits, interactive displays, and much, much more, you'll learn a whole lot about our planet, the solar system, and what lies beyond. It's only €6 to get in, and with so much to discover, you'll spend more than a few hours exploring every nook and cranny.   Historical architecture! And finally, let's end today's list with some more Earthly discoveries. Located in the heart of Montjuïc, within walking distance of the park's iconic fountain, is Poble Espanyol. It's an open-air architectural museum, which exemplifies Spanish culture, art, and cuisine throughout the centuries. For all intents and purposes, it's a miniature time capsule of the country all in one place. With over 100 buildings and streets from across the country recreated, it has to be seen to be believed. One minute you'll be walking through a 17th-century neighborhood; the next, you'll end up at a medieval market. You'll also find over 300 works from some of Spain's contemporary art giants. The likes of Picasso and Dali are on proud display, and are frankly worth the entry alone. And, if you need some gift ideas for when you go back home, there are a multitude of craftsmen on-site that make anything from bags to jewelry. Easily one of the best cheap things to do in Barcelona, and should be on everyone's itinerary when they visit! And that's our list of cheap things to do in Barcelona!
Dom Bewley

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