Cheap Things to do in Barcelona

By Dom Bewley
Published: July 18, 2024
cheap 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
Go City Travel Expert

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mar bella
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Best Beaches in Barcelona

Ah, Barcelona. The Count City. One of Europe's premier places for great food, sunny weather, and a whole heap of culture. And, of course, a tourist's paradise. There's so much to see and do all across the city you might be overwhelmed. After a day of shopping, eating, and culture-absorbing, you might need a nice rest. Or, maybe you're looking for a little sun-soaked thrill? No matter your desires, you'll find it all, and more, at the beach! Golden sand, clear blue sea, and a sky to match. Just thinking about it is enough to give you goose pimples. So, if you're heading to beautiful Barcelona for a short or longer-term stay, you'll want to know which beaches are the best. Well, you're in luck. We've researched the best beaches in Barcelona, so you don't have to. Read on, and discover which is right for you. Featuring: Barceloneta Mar Bella Sant Sebastia Nova Icaria Bogatell Barceloneta Barcelona's most famous beach, and the jewel in the city's sandy crown, Barceloneta holds that title with good reason. Golden sand as far as the eye can see. Well, nearly 1400ft of it, at least. Named after the eponymous fishing area where it resides, Barceloneta is truly one for the excitable, thrill-seeking tourist. Whether it's parties past sunset, a great assortment of seafood right on your 'towelstep', or a little seaside shopping, Barceloneta's got you covered. It's undoubtedly the most lively of the beaches on this list. And, given its renown worldwide, will likely be the busiest too. However, for those of you looking to add a little spice to your sandy stay, it's easily one of the best beaches in Barcelona. There are watersports, more bars than we can count, and other entertainment that'll excite you throughout the day and into the early hours. Mar Bella Let's switch gears for a moment. If Barceloneta's vibe is a little much and you're looking to really relax, then Mar Bella is for you. Known as the quietest beach in the city, it's relatively free from the tourist trappings of other beaches. You won't find bars and parties here. Just calm, peaceful beaches with calm and relaxed people. Of course, that doesn't mean all you'll be doing is lying down and soaking up rays. There's windsurfing and kayaking on offer for you daredevils out there. It's also worth noting that it's a nudist beach. Now, that doesn't mean you have to go in your birthday suit, but it does mean that other people probably will. But hey, it's the 21st Century. Good for them. And you, if that's your thing. Sant Sebastia However, if you're looking for something that treads the line between vibey Barceloneta and the zen-like Mar Bella, never fear. Sant Sebastia is here, and it's one of the best beaches in Barcelona! Often considered the Saint-Tropez of Spain, Sant Sebastia has many of Barceloneta's best bits; the bars, the food, and the activities, but with a fraction of the people. There are sea sports to take part in, boats to relax on, and an entire ocean to swim beneath. You can even do your best Hasselhoff impression and join one of the many volleyball games you'll find. Smash that ball, yeah! Now that's volleyball! But like Mar Bella, it's definitely more laid back, so much so that, like Mar Bella, it also accommodates nudists. So, just be aware that there'll likely be some skin on show. Nova Icaria Now, the above beaches might not be for everyone. If you're planning to bring the kids with you, perhaps a more clothes-friendly environment will stop any awkward staring or comments. Anything but the staring and comments. Well, Barcelona's got another great beach just for you. Nova Icaria is perfect for families, with a mix of kid-friendly activities like volleyball and water sports, and a nice mix of places to eat and grab a drink to cool off. Plus, if the sand, sun, and sea aren't enough to keep their curious minds busy, Barcelona Zoo is just a short walk from the beach. There are hundreds of animals to meet, a reptile house filled with exotic species, and the African Savannah section where your little ones can mingle with giraffes, gazelle, and elephants. What more could a child, and a tired adult, want? Bogatell And, finally, for those of you looking for a more grown-up version of Nova Icaria, look no further than Bogatell beach. Firstly, it's a beach, so expect sand, lounging in the sand, and the chance to tan your pale, vitamin d-starved body. There are also plenty of activities to participate in, from ping-pong to volleyball. All that, and nary a whippersnapper in sight. Bogatell has a higher average age than the other beaches. Perfect for the more mature of you, whether in mind or body. Bogatell is classed as a Blue-Flag Beach, meaning it takes a sustainable approach to its shoreline. For the layman, including us, that means it's cleaner. And, as you'd expect from a Blue-Flag beach with a rubber-stamped body of water, Bogatell has some of the best watersports activities in Barcelona. Windsurfing, kitesurfing, actual surfing, and much, much more. And, after all the action - or inaction - there's a wealth of bars and restaurants just a short walk away. They're sure to quench your thirst or satisfy your well-earned hunger. Or, if you just need to cool down, go grab an ice cream at one of the pop-ups along the beach. And those were just some of the best beaches in Barcelona. No matter what vibe you're looking for, there's sure to be the perfect beach for you. And, if you're looking for more things to do while you're in the scintillating city, why not add a little culture? Barcelona has a wide variety of art galleries to peruse, and museums to fill the brain to the brim. If you need a break from the sun, why not try some indoor activities? Taking that special someone on your trip? We've got perfect couple's activities just for you.
Dom Bewley
sagrada familia
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Gaudi Tour in Barcelona

Lauded as one of the greatest architects the world has ever seen, Antoni Gaudi needs no introduction. His unique style is instantly recognizable, and rightly so. Using a creative mix of organic shapes and Eastern-inspired techniques to create his masterpieces, his buildings are one-of-a-kind. As a Catalonian, most of his work resides in the delightful city of Barcelona, renowned for its food, culture, and so much more. So, if you're lucky enough to be visiting one of the world's best cities and want to learn more about him, why not take a Gaudi tour in Barcelona? If that sounds like your thing, then never fear. We've put together an exhaustive list of Gaudi goodness right here. So relax, read on, and get ready to plan your trip! Featuring: Sagrada Familia Tour Modernism and Gaudi Walking Tour Gaudí Experiència Park Guell Guided Tour and Sagrada Familia Virtual Tour 360 Sagrada Familia Tour No list of Barcelona tours would be fit for purpose without including Gaudi's best. La Sagrada Familia is considered by many to be his magnum opus, sadly one he never finished before he passed. However, don't let its incomplete state fool you. This remarkable sight looks like something from another world. And, as one of Gaudi's most recognizable works, it's an absolute must-see. As you wander the basilica's ornate spires and otherworldly spectacle, you'll be joined by an experienced, arts-trained guide. They'll ensure you absorb all of the history and stories about the work, from conception to construction. They'll also shine a light on the symbolism present throughout the building. You're sure to enjoy seeing the Nativity and Glory facades for yourself. After all, there's a reason it's considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site! There are currently plans to complete the work by 2026, which will mark 100 years since Gaudi's death. Modernism and Gaudi Walking Tour Of course, La Sagrada Familia is just one of his many works. Gaudi was a prolific artist and architect, so you'll find plenty more of his designs peppered throughout Barcelona. Why not check them out on this Modernism and Gaudi walking tour? This 3-hour tour will take you across the city, letting you experience the mark that Gaudi left on the Catalan capital. Feast your eyes on the smooth, wave-like facade of La Pedrera. See the Casa Batllo, with its bone-like exterior and flesh-inspired interior. Learn about Gaudi's inspiration for each work. And, take a stroll through El Eixample, a district renowned for its modern art styling. While this is the best way to soak up as much Gaudi on one tour, if you're jonesing for a closer look, we've got you covered. Casa Batllo, La Pedrera, and even Casa Vicens all have their own dedicated tours and visits worth checking out, if a fleeting glance doesn't quite cut it. Gaudí Experiència 4D For a change of pace, why not add another dimension to proceedings? The fourth dimension, to be exact. Gaudi Experiencia is a 4D, interactive exhibition of Gaudi's work, life and passion. Through state-of-the-art technology, you'll see and feel his creations like never before. Swipe through interactive screens of his life and art. Grab a photo with a brass statue of the man himself. And immerse yourself in Gaudi's genius, thanks to 4D and augmented reality. The Gaudi Experiencia will let you look behind the curtain at the language and symbolism behind Gaudi's works. And at the end of it all, be sure to check out the exclusive books and souvenirs available in the on-site shop. One of the best Gaudi tours you can experience in Barcelona, especially if you're looking for something a little leftfield. Park Güell Guided Tour Why not add a little nature to your tour? Park Guell is one of Barcelona's most famous parks, brimming with history and architecture. This guided tour will show off the very best of Barcelona while scratching that Gaudi itch too. Because, well, there's no way he'd let one of the city's most memorable places go Gaudi-free. As soon as you step foot in Park Guell, you'll feel like you've been transported to another world. First opened in 1922, just four years before Gaudi's death, this wonderland of weird is full of Art Nouveau buildings, strange sculptures, and mesmerizing mosaics. Soak up the atmosphere and nature as an expert guide takes you around the park, shedding light on the most exciting works on display. Be sure to keep an eye out for El Drac - a large multicolored mosaic salamander that's one of the most photographed places in the city. And the Porter's Lodge, which has Gaudi's unmistakable style on full display. Sagrada Familia Virtual Tour 360 Finally, we end where we began. But this time, with the added twist of another reality. A virtual reality! See the inside from the outside by taking a Sagrada Familia Virtual Tour 360. Through the magical alchemy of VR, you'll be transported to the inside of Gaudi's masterpiece. Admire the exquisite detail of the pillars, the curvature of the nave, and the stunning ceiling. Study every facade from right up close, without worrying about disturbing the timeless architecture. Listen as the guide takes you through the journey of Gaudi's life, unlocking the secrets of his technique and the deeper meaning behind his carvings. All this, while the fresh Barcelona breeze washes over you. Because hey, sometimes it's just better outside than inside. Those are just some of the best Gaudi tours that Barcelona has to offer. The man himself clearly left his mark on the city, and no matter your preference, you're sure to find the perfect artsy addition to your trip. While you're here, feel free to check out our guides to weekends in Barcelona. Or, peruse the city's best museums and art galleries. If you're taking that special someone with you, look up our Barcelona guide for couples! And finally, if you want to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank, why not check out Go City? There's so much to see in Barcelona, we wouldn't want you to miss a thing.
Dom Bewley
Caga Tió among a festive display
Blog

Christmas in Barcelona

The Christmas season is often a magical time to travel, no matter where you go. So long as your destination celebrates the religious holiday, you can be sure to expect some fantastic cultural festivities to complement your trip. And Christmas in Barcelona is no exception. A country with deep Catholic roots, much of Spain typically goes out of its way to celebrate its religious festivals in style. As you might expect, that means that Christmas is a particularly big event – especially in Barcelona. Expect a month of high spirits, bizarre traditions, mouth-watering seasonal foods and holiday festivities. Visiting Barcelona Around Christmas Should you choose to visit Barcelona throughout December, you’re in for a real treat. Typically renowned the rest of the year as a rich hub of art, culture, cuisine and nightlife, the Christmas season sees the Catalan capital transform into somewhat of a winter wonderland. While white sheets of snow aren’t a common sight in Barcelona – with snowfall typically a once-in-a-decade occurrence for the city – you can bet your bottom dollar on all the other troupes of a Christmas city. Holiday displays in just about every store window, seasonal treats at every bakery and festive lights adorning iconic streets as far as the eye can see. Taking a trip to Barcelona in winter means that, while you may not get the best weather the city has to offer, you’ll be able to explore much more freely without battling huge crowds. The Christmas season does naturally bring in more tourists than other winter months, but you should usually be able to book any attraction you want on the same day, not to mention you’ll also have your pick of the litter of hotels at off-season rates. If you’re planning to be in Barcelona over Christmas itself, just be aware that Christmas Day and Boxing Day are public holidays, meaning most stores, restaurants and services will be closed for the day. Many of these will still operate on December 24, though some opt for half days, so be sure to do your last-minute shopping in the morning. Christmas Markets Europe is world famous for its holiday markets. While Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic are some of the most renowned destinations, Barcelona can more than hold a candle to their spirited selection of merry merchants. Throughout the city, you can explore a multitude of markets selling all manner of festive fare, from mulled wine to roasted chestnuts. Local artists also take the holiday season as an opportunity to sell their crafts, baked goods, artisan wines and spreads, homemade candies and Christmas ornaments, among a multitude of other things. You’ll find plenty of different markets dotted around the city, but the largest and most famous market is Fira de Santa Llúcia. Found on Avinguda de la Catedral, this market dates back over 200 years to 1786. Given its history and popularity, it’s wise to give yourself plenty of time to visit should you want to pick up some souvenirs from your trip, as crowds are almost inevitable. Christmas Traditions Christmas Cuisine – Perhaps one of the most anticipated aspects of Christmas celebrations around the world is the seasonal food that comes with it. In Catalonia, Christmas is a time when most families splash out for some of the most luxurious foods to share with their families. Popular inclusions of a traditional Catalan Christmas meal are Carn d'Olla (a sort of meat broth) served with Galets pasta and tapas dishes with various meats and fish (most notably ham and eels). After the main meal, many will then turn to festive sweet treats, such as turrón nougat and polvorón shortbread, all washed down with a hearty glass of local Cava. Even if you aren’t actually celebrating Christmas in Barcelona, you can still find various seasonal treats on sale throughout many retailers and Christmas market stalls throughout the city. Whether you’re keen on trying some almond-based sweet treats, grabbing yourself some local meats and cheeses or taking home a bottle of authentic Catalan Cava, you’re sure to be spoiled for choice. Caga Tió – Early in December, the Caga Tió makes an appearance in many Catalan homes and Christmas market stalls. The Caga Tió is a relatively small wooden log with two front legs and a jolly face, often adorned with a traditional Christmas hat. Children are given the responsibility of taking care of the Caga Tió throughout the season, typically putting a blanket around it and feeding it fruit, nuts, bread and candy, much like kids elsewhere might leave out milk and cookies for Santa Claus. Should you ever be fortunate enough to spend Christmas with a Catalonian family, you’ll then get to see the true colors of the Caga Tió. Translated literally as ‘pooping log’, children will beat the Caga Tió in hopes of having it ‘poop out’ gifts which, if they looked after it well, they should find beneath the blanket. El Caganer – Often depicting various celebrities, public figures and fictional characters going number two, El Caganer is a staple of Catalan Christmas. Originally depicted between the 17th and 18th Centuries as a young peasant caught short between the three wise men in the nativity scene, many families now adorn their own scenes with their favorite Caganer. Contrary to the apparent profane nature of the display, El Caganer is viewed as a sign of good luck to the people of Catalonia. Harking back to ancient pagan beliefs, the Caganer’s ‘deposit’ is supposed to represent the fertilization of the soil and high productivity in the fields for the year ahead. El Caganer figurines make for a humorous and festive gift to bring home to your loved ones. Be sure to look for your favorite celebrity, public figure or fictional character while exploring the city’s many Christmas market stalls! Kings’ Day – In tribute to the day that the Three Kings were said to have visited the baby Jesus in Bethlehem, Barcelona welcomes their ceremonial arrival on the evening of 5 January. The Three Kings arrive by boat before beginning their annual procession through the streets of Barcelona. Traditionally, children in Spain write letters to the kings in place of Santa Claus, and they typically receive their main gifts on Kings’ Day rather than Christmas Day. If you happen to be visiting around Kings’ Day, be sure to catch the parade and take part in some of the many local festivities. Locals are likely to be throwing parties, and stores and bakeries will be full of festive sweet treats to try out, most notably Tortells de Reis, or Kings’ Cakes. All Fools’ Day – While not explicitly a Christmas celebration, All Fools’ Day takes place on December 28 and serves as Spain’s equivalent of April Fools’ Day. Participation often varies, but you can expect news outlets publishing bizarre and false stories playing on current events and friends playing practical jokes on one another throughout the day. A common prank you may see during your visit is people sticking a paper silhouette of a man onto their victim’s back to see how long it takes them to notice – resulting in greater hilarity the longer the joke goes on.
Robert Heaney

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