Things to do Alone in Barcelona

By Dom Bewley
Published: July 18, 2024
barcelona alone

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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
Go City Travel Expert

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The Sagrada Familia and surrounding city blocks viewed from above
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Barcelona in October

Following the final few waves of peak-time traffic seen throughout September, Barcelona in October enters into somewhat of a cooldown period. As with spring, fall offers a balance between the city’s renowned bustle and a more genuine, tranquil experience. Whether you’re looking to experience all of Barcelona’s top attractions off-season or to discover some lesser-visited spots as the weather begins to dip, October can be a fantastic time for just about any type of traveler to visit the Catalan capital. Tourism in October As fall begins to rear its head, Barcelona goes through its second ‘shoulder season’ of the year. Throughout this period, tourism rates fall fairly rapidly from their summertime peak, though remain fairly consistently above the later lull to come over winter. Just like in May or June, this transitive period is considered by many to be one of the best times to visit the city. It offers the best of both worlds with the maintained buzz of the remaining waves of visitors alongside a somewhat quieter and more authentic side to the city. As such, just about every type of visitor is sure to get the most out of what they came for, be it Barcelona’s famous nightlife, its celebrated beaches and parks, or its world-renowned sights and attractions. Weather in October Another benefit of Barcelona’s transitive shoulder seasons is its pleasant middle-ground weather. With temperatures averaging between the high-50s and mid-70s, visitors can expect more bearable highs than during peak season and much milder lows than during winter. While rainfall is significantly greater than during summer, it still isn’t typically frequent in October. This translates to a great opportunity to explore Barcelona’s many parks and beaches without the summertime crowds. For those cooler days, you may want to perch yourself in one of the Gothic Quarter’s charming squares with a hearty cup of coffee or glass of local cava. Things to Do in October Although you can visit the vast majority of Barcelona’s sights throughout the year, October serves as a great chance to see some of the city’s top attractions. Visiting off-season naturally means you can explore the likes of the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell without dealing with quite as large crowds as in summer. For something a little different, families and animal lovers alike should take the chance to meet the 450+ species of the Barcelona Aquarium, while beer fans might enjoy a tour of the Estrella Damm Brewery, complete with complimentary samples. And if you’re partial to some retail therapy, Barcelona’s many shopping outlets have you covered. Local & Cultural Events Festes del Roser – Also known as the Festa Major de la Rambla, this local festival takes place early in October on Barcelona’s most famous street. Held in honor of Mare de déu del Roser, the Virgin of the Rosary, the event is best characterized by its floral display lining La Rambla and its iconic parade. The Festes del Roser are also host to a variety of performances, concerts, street food stalls, a craft fair and a number of free open house events at some of the area’s top attractions. BAUM Fest – Welcoming tens of thousands of attendees each year, BAUM Fest is considered a benchmark for urban art and culture in Spain. The event brings together professionals and enthusiasts alike to celebrate and showcase the likes of graffiti, skating, parkour, motorcycles and break dance. The festival offers an extensive program of activities and performances, including a variety of live concerts in various genres, from jazz and soul to world music. Running alongside the festival, the Barcelona Tattoo Expo also serves as a platform for professional tattoo artists from around the world to exhibit their work. Independent Barcelona Coffee Festival – Truly an event made for the caffeine addicts among us, the Independent Barcelona Coffee Festival consists of three days dedicated to the craft and consumption of our favorite bean-based brew. The festival brings together industry professionals, from roasters to baristas, and offers a forum for their shared passion for specialty coffee culture. Sitges Film Festival – Having now run for over half a century, the Sitges Film Festival is considered the most significant fantasy film festival in the world, showcasing the best films in the genre. The event typically runs for a little over a week and offers a varied program of short film and movie screenings, workshops and activities. One highlight of the festival is the Sitges Zombie Walk, during which attendees receive a zombie make-over and walk a predetermined route through the city in their horde, culminating in a concert at the destination point and a night of zombified partying. Another is the Sitges Wine Festival, which typically runs alongside the film festival and offers everything from local wine sampling to wine-making workshops. Halloween – While not a strictly Spanish celebration, Halloween is becoming increasingly embraced the world over. Barcelona is no stranger to spooky season in the lead-up to All Saints’ Day on November 1, and is host to all of the hallmarks of Halloween, from trick-or-treating to pumpkin carving to fancy dress. There are parties and events held throughout the city for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Families can participate in the activities hosted at the Poble Espanyol and the nearby PortAventura World, while many of the city’s top night clubs offer Halloween-themed parties for adults to enjoy after dark. Wrapping Up It’s no wonder the fall season is widely dubbed one of the best times to visit Barcelona. Alongside pleasant weather and a bustling, electric atmosphere, the city is also host to a vast array of stellar events for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a buzzing nightlife experience or an insight into the region’s cultural significance, visiting Barcelona in October could be the trip for you.
Robert Heaney
The W Barcelona Hotel viewed from the coast
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Barcelona in June

As the final frontier before the gargantuan waves of summer tourism, June serves as a unique period of limbo for Barcelona quite unlike the rest of the year. Combining both the early bird tranquility of off-season travel and the electric ambience of peak tourism levels, June sees Barcelona at what is perhaps its most genuine. Whether you’re most keen on its buzzing nightlife, world-renowned beaches, celebrated cultural sites or wealth of incredible events and festivals, a visit to Barcelona in June is sure to help you experience the city at its best. Tourism in June June in Barcelona, as in May, serves as somewhat of a transitive stage for the city. With the winter tourism lull now long passed and the waves of summer visitors yet to come, the May and June ‘shoulder season’ sees tourism rates somewhere in the middle of the two. Many consider this period the best time to visit Barcelona, offering the best of both worlds of the city’s famous bustling atmosphere and nightlife without the overcrowding and queues characteristic of summertime traffic. Visitors in June get the rare chance both to see the Catalan capital thriving with life and to experience its attractions, culture and history without much of a hitch. Visiting Barcelona in June therefore offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the city at its best. Take yourself on a tour of Catalonia’s most celebrated architecture, explore the many cultural hotspots atop Montjuïc, or walk in the footsteps of your favorite soccer legends at Camp Nou. Weather in June June brings with it very pleasant temperatures typically falling between the mid-60s and high-70s, alongside some fairly consistent sunshine and a relatively low chance of rain. That gives June a slight edge on May’s more mild weather and the often overly hot and humid summer climate. If sunbathing on the beach, going for a dip in the Mediterranean or taking a relaxing stroll through the park are up your alley, June is the ideal time to do so. You’ll get to enjoy some of the best weather of the year without having to share it with quite so many others! What to Do in June While the vast majority of Barcelona can be enjoyed throughout the year, conditions in June are ideal for more outdoor-based activities. At the same time, the steadily increasing tourist numbers also mean that the most popular indoor attractions such as the Sagrada Familia can become pretty busy at times. If you’re looking to make the most of the weather, the city’s famous beaches and vast selection of parks are the best way forward. Although they’re bound to be relatively busy with many other visitors having the same idea, they’ll still be far less crowded than in the summer months. And what’s more, aside from the likes of Park Güell’s Monumental Zone, most of them are totally free to enjoy! In much the same way, the weather in June makes it a perfect time to take a tour of the city’s famous diversity of architecture. Spread across the city, you can easily spend a full day or two exploring the works of celebrated Modernist architects like Antoni Gaudí, alongside the more historical buildings common throughout the Gothic Quarter. Music Festivals Primavera Sound Festival – Typically held in early June, Primavera Sound stands as one of the city’s most hotly anticipated music festivals. In contrast to many other music events 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. Sónar Festival – One of the oldest and most well-known festivals in Europe, Sónar brings together thousands of electronic music fans from across the continent. Taking place over a weekend in mid-June, the festival is typically split into three events, often held in different locations. Sónar de Día offers a selection of concerts and performances taking place throughout the day. Sónar de Noche takes the event into the evening, showcasing some of the biggest names in the electronic scene. Sónar+D offers an accompanying program of creative technology experiences, including digital workshops, product tests and hands-on virtual reality activities. Brunch in the City/Park – June serves as somewhat of a bridge between these two long-running events. Brunch in the City runs from March to June and consists of weekly electronic festivals featuring various international DJs, along with food and beer tents and activities for all ages. The City edition of the event is often regarded as a warm-up to the main summer event, Brunch in the Park. Held on Montjuïc, the Park edition offers much of the same as its little brother, only on a larger scale and running from late June to September. Festival Jardins Pedralbes – Hosted in the gardens of the Palau Reial de Pedralbes, this open-air music festival is host to a series of concerts throughout June. The event showcases both big international names and emerging artists between its two stages. The pleasantly cool evenings of June serve as a fantastic opportunity to relax in these historical gardens with a glass of cava and enjoy a fantastic variety of musical performances. Local & Cultural Events Nit de Sant Joan – Held in celebration of the Summer Solstice, the Feast of Sant Joan is a truly electric event and host to a plethora of crazy parties. Often known as the Nit del Foc (Night of Fire), locals embrace the coming of summer with fireworks and fire displays. Many hold their own parties with friends to celebrate this shortest night of the year, while others take to the beach with picnics and cava to enjoy the bustling ambience. Groups of musicians and performers will also often come together to provide a live soundtrack to the festivities. Corpus Christi – One of the oldest celebrations in Barcelona, the Día del Corpus Christi is a Catholic festival held in honor of the Eucharist. The festival dates back over six centuries and is truly a sight to behold, most notably for the Processó de Corpus Christi and Giants’ Ball processions featuring various giant religious figures and animals of Catalan legends. Barcelona Gay Pride – Joining many other major cities in celebrating the LGBT community, Barcelona’s Gay Pride festival takes place over the course of a week in late June. The event is host to a variety of activities, live performances, talks and exhibitions, culminating with a fun and engaging parade open to all who wish to join. Wrapping Up While every traveler varies in their preferences, it’s difficult to dispute June as one of the very best times to visit Barcelona. Offering peak weather conditions, a bustling yet not overly busy atmosphere and a whole host of exciting events, Barcelona in June truly offers a fantastic balance for just about any visitor to enjoy.
Robert Heaney
Panorama shot of Barcelona airport, with sign and part of an aeroplane tail
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