Outdoor Activities in Barcelona

By Dom Bewley
Published: July 18, 2024
outdoor barcelona

The great outdoors. Nothing quite beats the feel of the sun on your skin, the wind in your hair, and the buzzing of flies around your unwashed body. Just us? Anyway, if you've made it this far, you'll want to know about the best outdoor activities in Barcelona, so you can make the most of the idyllic weather. Whether you're looking for outdoor artistic tours, architectural wonders, or wave-based snaps, you're in luck. So, without further ado, let's explore the best outdoor activities in Barcelona!

Including:

  • Poble Espanyol de Barcelona
  • Park Güell Guided Tour
  • Las Golondrinas Boat Tour
  • Ciutadella Segway Tour
  • Best of Barcelona Bike Tour
  • and more!
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Cities within the city

Why explore one city when you can explore multiple cities through multiple eras...all in one city? If you're confused, don't be; that's simply what's on offer at Poble Espanyol.

A stone's throw from the unmissable fountain in Montjuïc Park, you'll find this open-air architectural museum that recreates the soul of Spanish culture, art, and cuisine. In fact, you'll explore recreations of 117 buildings, streets, and squares from the city's history. From old monasteries to neighborhood markets, you'll see it all.

And, on top of all this fascinating architecture, you'll also have the chance to view over 300 works of art from Spanish art giants like Dalí and Picasso. Easily one of the best outdoor activities in Barcelona.

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Getting Güelly with it

If you want to make the most of the weather, why not head to one of Barcelona's best parks? Park Güell was designed by the late great architect Gaudi, and it shows. Bizarre yet intricate buildings, beautiful mosaics, and winding, extravagant staircases are all on show here. If you're interested in the creation of the park and the inspiration behind its design, why not take a guided tour and learn all about it?

Your arts-trained guide will lead you through the park's most important sculptures, pointing out many hidden details you may miss if exploring alone. Plus, you'll get access to the parts gated off to the non-paying visitors.

Be sure to snap pics of El Drac, a mesmerizing mosaic of a salamander, and the wonderfully designed Porter's Lodge. Then, put them on your socials and put your followers to shame.

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Just cruisin'

One of the highlights of visiting a new city is seeing the sights and landmarks. And, sure, you could do that on your weary two feet. But why not enjoy views of the Catalonian capital by way of water? Because you absolutely can, courtesy of a Las Golondrinas Boat Cruise!

For one and a half glorious hours, you'll cruise the Med, taking in views of Barcelona's skyline, and snapping pics of all the highlights across nine miles of coastline. Be sure to look out for Villa Olimpica, Castell de Monjuïc, and Port Olimpic, among many others.

Relax in luxury, soak up the sun, breathe in that sea air and see everything Barcelona has to offer. Does it get much better than that? No it does not.

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The perfect Segway

Want to learn about one of Barcelona's most famous parks while zooming around on a hip new mode of transport? Well then, you'll want to tour the city's Ciutadella Park on a Segway!

And don't worry, it doesn't matter if you have zero experience riding these electronic chariots. Everyone gets a quick intro to Segway operation and riding before the tour begins. Then, once you're suitably prepared, you'll shoot off into the park with your guide, and learn about the park's history. You'll also pass many local attractions like the Barcelona Zoo, the Cascada fountain, and the city's answer to Paris' Arc de Triomf.

More fun than it has any right to be, a Segway tour is the perfect summer activity, and absolutely one of the best outdoor activities in Barcelona!

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On your bike!

If you're feeling adventurous, or simply want to burn off the liters of sangria and tapas you've consumed over your vacation, why not take a two-wheeled tour of the city?

Prepare for a mammoth three-and-a-half-hour trip, as your knowledgeable guide takes you around Barcelona. Explore the vibrant parts of the city tourists don't reach, ride past many of Gaudi's masterworks, and take a short break on the beautiful beaches while you rehydrate. It's a long ride, but well worth it, so be sure to pack a big bottle of water, some snacks, a hat, and a whole heap of sunscreen.

Oh, and your camera; you'll need it to snap the city's magnificent sights. Be on the lookout for The Sagrada Familia, Old town, Barceloneta beach, and many more Grammable beauties.

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Zootopia IRL

You know who else likes outdoor activities? Animals. And you know where animals live? The wild. Well, usually, because if you visit Barcelona Zoo, you'll get to hang out with 2,000 of the lovely critters!

Head to Parc de la Ciutadella, and you'll find the zoo. Then, once inside, you'll get up close and personal with lions, tigers, lizards, penguins, giraffes, elephants, and many, many more animals! You can also learn about the zoo's conservation efforts, and attend workshops and guided tours if you want to hear from the experts.

And that's our list of the best outdoor activities in Barcelona! Looking to spruce up your itinerary with some more fun? Those with a stranger side may appreciate our guide to quirky Barcelona! Looking to squeeze some pennies? We've found the best cheap things to do in the city. Or, if you fancy getting out of the city and seeing the beautiful scenery nearby, check out our guide to day trips outside Barcelona! Until next time, adventurers.

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Panoramic view of Barcelona Cathedral in the Gothic Quarter
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Barcelona in September

Seeing out summer, September marks the beginning of a transitive period for Barcelona. Offering the best of both worlds of summer and the coming low season, the city is widely considered to be at its best in this period. No matter your travel preferences, you’re bound to find that the Catalan capital delivers. From fantastic weather to bustling nightlife complementing the cultural, historical and gastronomic feast on offer year-round, there is an endless array of things to do in Barcelona in September that are guaranteed to offer you a rewarding experience on all fronts. Tourism in September For Barcelona, September offers an experience that combines the appeal of visiting both in summer and in fall. With summer break drawing to a close, the family-dominated waves of peak-season tourists decline throughout the month, making way for other types of travelers. As such, the city typically isn’t quite as busy as during previous months, but it certainly isn’t quiet either. For many, that’s exactly the benefit of visiting in this period. A healthy influx of visitors is precisely what gives Barcelona its world-renowned bustling atmosphere – particularly when it comes to nightlife. That does, however, mean that you should expect large crowds at some of the city’s top attractions. Be sure to plan accordingly and book your visit in advance should you want to include the likes of Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia in your trip. Weather in September September offers something of a sweet spot when it comes to weather. Working somewhat in parallel to the tourism rate, temperatures drop just slightly from the summertime peak and rest typically between the mid-60s and high-70s. In essence, that makes for ideal summer temperatures without the higher highs and more imposing humidity of July and August. Combine that with the fact that many schools and colleges start their new academic year in September, and you get the best of Barcelona’s sunshine and heat without quite the same droves of summer break tourists. Why not take yourself for a pleasant dip in the Mediterranean and bask in the sun on Barcelona’s famous beaches or in its many renowned green spaces? Best Attractions in September September is one of the few times throughout the year when just about all of Barcelona is at its best. Aside from making the most of the idyllic weather, this is a great time to visit the city’s best attractions and cultural sites. No matter your travel style, you’re sure to find the city catering to your preferences. For those interested in Barcelona’s rich architectural diversity, this period serves as a fantastic time to take a tour of some of the city’s most iconic buildings. Explore the likes of Casa Milà, Illa de la Discòrdia and the Gothic Quarter to see how the Catalan capital brings together both traditional Gothic and contemporary Modernist styles with surprising grace. Should you be looking for your share of cultural inspiration, then the city’s wealth of celebrated museums has you covered. Discover the life and work of Barcelona’s most honored artists at the Museo Picasso and Fundació Joan Miró, or take a stroll through history at the Museo de Historia de Barcelona or the Museu d'Història de Catalunya. If you’re in the market for more of a culinary experience or want to get in on Barcelona’s famous nightlife scene, be sure to explore the many bars, restaurants and charming squares throughout the Gothic Quarter in particular. In the evening, make your way toward the seafront and La Barceloneta for some of the city’s best clubs, bars and live music venues – or simply take some drinks to the beach! Local & Cultural Events Festes de la Mercè – Toward the end of September, a number of areas throughout Barcelona become host to various combined celebrations in honor of the Virgin of Grace, Mare de Déu de la Mercè (Our Lady of Mercy). Typically taking place over the course of a few days to a week, many key streets and parks come alive with live music performances, street art, cultural activities and light displays. As with many street festivals held throughout the year, you can expect processions of giant characters and religious figures, along with ‘devils’ performing correfocs (fire runs) throughout the week. Beginning on September 24 with Día de la Mercè, a public holiday, many independent stores and businesses will be closed for the day. Held in conjunction with this celebration is the BAM Festival. Short for Barcelona Acció Musical (Barcelona Musical Action), this is an alternative musical festival hosted to bring an even greater diversity of music to the Mercè festivities. Big names in the local and international music scene from a vast array of genres offer concerts and performances over the course of a week. Diada Nacional de Catalunya – September 11 in Barcelona is a celebration of all things Catalan. Held in commemoration of the fall of Barcelona during the War of the Spanish Succession, the day is often split between cultural events and independence movement demonstrations. For those with an interest in Catalan culture and local politics, this could be a great opportunity to see a deeper side to Catalonia, while also benefiting from free entry to the likes of the MNAC and the Museu d'Història de Catalunya. For everybody else, it’s best to avoid the city center, as it can become very crowded with demonstrations, and being a public holiday, many stores and businesses will also be closed for the day. Festa Major de la Barceloneta/del Poblenou – Much like the Festes de la Mercè, these festivals transform their respective neighborhoods into a lively street party, complete with live music, street food, art displays, cultural activities and high spirits all around. And, of course, both also offer their own parades of giants and devils, saints and sinners. Wrapping Up If you’re looking for a fantastic summer trip to Barcelona, September offers a slightly different experience from the peak season months. In the absence of families on summer break and the plethora of music festivals taking place throughout the preceding months, September instead offers idyllic weather and a whole host of local and cultural events. Whether you’re looking to tick off all of the city’s key attractions or want to join in on its famed nightlife scene, or even just want to take a load off and sunbathe on its popular beaches, a trip to Barcelona in September is the perfect opportunity to see the city at its best.
Robert Heaney
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
Palau Nacional light show in the evening
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Barcelona in May

In the wake of winter and the anticipation of summer, Barcelona in May offers what many consider to be the best of both worlds. Throughout this period, visitors get to experience the busy and electric ambience that the city is known for, while also being able to reap the benefits of visiting ahead of the summertime crowds. Whatever your travel style may be, this is likely the ideal time to plan a visit. If easily accessible attractions and a thriving nightlife aren’t quite enough to convince you, then perhaps the wealth of celebrations and events taking place throughout the city will be. Tourism in May With winter now a distant memory and springtime too on its way out, Barcelona begins a sort of metamorphosis in anticipation of the coming summer months. The beginning of the city’s first ‘shoulder season’, May marks the beginning of a transitive period for the Catalan capital. While tourism rates around this time still stand a ways behind high-season traffic, they’re also significantly higher than throughout the preceding winter months. For many, this is what makes May a perfect time to visit Barcelona. Barcelona’s famed bustling atmosphere is an inherent result of its high throughput of visitors, but that often comes at the cost of overcrowding and queuing for just about every major attraction. In May, however, the city sees just enough tourists to stay true to its character while also leaving much of the city easily accessible and uncrowded. May brings with it pleasant temperatures typically falling between the high-50s and high-60s, alongside some fairly consistent sunshine. Although that may not be prime sunbathing weather, it does mean you can ditch the winter jacket – though an umbrella is still advisable. With that, visiting Barcelona in May is the perfect opportunity to experience the city both inside and out. Explore the famous architecture of the Sagrada Familia without battling too many queues and take a relaxing stroll through Park Güell in the pleasant springtime weather. And why not take some time to enjoy some of the region’s highly-anticipated events and festivities, too? Primavera Sound Festival Held each year in Barcelona’ Forum Building close to Parc del Fòrum, the Primavera Sound Festival stands as one of the city’s most hotly anticipated music festivals each year. In contrast to many other music festivals taking place throughout the year, Primavera Sound is host to a diverse lineup of genres comprising everything from jazz and hip hop to folk and alternative rock. Previous editions of the festival have performances from the likes of Arcade Fire, Pet Shop Boys and White Stripes. While the main sets typically take place over the course of a weekend, the event runs for around a week in total, with additional gigs and performances hosted across the city. Night of the Museums Those who remember the Ben Stiller hit movie Night at the Museum may already have some fantastical idea of what this cultural event entails. While reanimated exhibitions aren’t typically on the table, many of Barcelona’s most important museums come to life in their own way for one night each May. Coinciding with International Museum Day, this event sees a huge array of Barcelona’s museums open their doors to visitors throughout the night, often free of charge. Popular locations such as the MNAC, CaixaFòrum and MACBA offer visitors an opportunity to explore their exhibitions in a new way, alongside hosting a number of cultural activities and performances for all ages to enjoy. Ciutat Flamenco Festival For those with a flair for dancing or a passion for the performing arts, this festival could really be a treat. The Ciutat Flamenco Festival serves as one of the most significant shows dedicated to Flamenco dance and music. Held for roughly two weeks in May, the event grants attendees the opportunity to discover music from some of the most prominent names in the Flamenco scene, while also showcasing the work of newer artists. Don your best outfit and be prepared to experience this passionate performance of Spanish dance. Girona Flower Festival For roughly one week in early May, the nearby city of Girona comes into full bloom, with many of its most popular neighborhoods decorated in all manner of floral arrangements. Displays range from classy and tasteful to purposefully kitsch and quirky, often accompanied by art and light installations, music With over a hundred displays spread across the city, the Flower Festival offers a fantastic means of exploring Girona in a whole different way. The event opens up a number of areas and patios normally closed to the public, allowing you to truly see a side to the city that most others rarely do. Sitting only an hour or so away from Girona by car, coach or train, Barcelona serves as a fantastic base from which to visit the Flower Festival. Once you’re there, pick up an event map from the tourist office or from the many volunteers dotted along the festival route and explore the veritable Eden of Girona in May. Barcelona International Comic Fair This somewhat more niche event speaks to the comic book fans among us. Having now run successfully for over 40 years, the Barcelona International Comic Fair serves as a demonstration of all the important developments in the comic book world. It showcases the works of prominent and upcoming comic book authors, with awards presented for the best among them. Visitors have the opportunity to meet and chat with authors and artists alike, and can attend various concerts, performances and film premieres taking place throughout the festival. If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona in May and want to embrace your inner geek, be sure to swing by this fantastic fiction fair. Wrapping Up Whether you’re looking to experience Barcelona in its prime state without too many crowds or to get in on some of the incredible festivities taking place throughout the month, visiting Barcelona in May is a fantastic way to experience everything that the city has to offer.
Robert Heaney

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